If you're craving fresh, creative eats with a surfside vibe, Bad Bean Baja Grill is the spot where locals and travelers alike ride the wave of flavor. This isn’t your typical Mexican joint—it’s a chef-driven haven in Kitty Hawk that serves up Mexican and Latin-inspired dishes infused with a Coastal Carolina soul, Baja California zest, Tex-Mex flair, and a splash of Asian influence. From tacos to quesadillas, burritos, and more, each bite is packed with the freshest ingredients. Even classics get a twist, like the Caesar salad or the filling-yet-light Mushroom and Goat Cheese Quesadilla. And if you’re surfing in on an empty stomach, the half-pound, tortilla-wrapped Baja Burger will hit the spot.

Bad Bean keeps it laid-back and local, with no pretension—just solid food that speaks for itself. Fan favorites include the fish tacos and pork belly tacos, both made with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Everything here is crafted in-house, from the salsas to the corn chips, right down to the sauces, marinades, and seasonings that make each dish pop with flavor.