The Royal James Cafe

3-Dimensional Sculpture Showing the Royal James Cafe on Turner Street
Sculpture (private collection) by Amy F. Levine - represented by Visions Gallery

Since 1946 there’s been a café at 117 Turner Street in historic Beaufort, North Carolina – making it Beaufort’s oldest business in continuous operation. No wonder it is still a habitual favorite for locals and visitors alike – favorably suggested by the Chicago Tribute, the Atlanta Constitution Journal, the News and Observer and Southern Living.

Sue and Ed Book purchased the popular laid-back “hang out” in 1983 and renamed it the Royal James Café. How fitting to commemorate the pirate ship, Royal James, that cruised these waters, around 1716-1718, under the infamous Blackbeard and Stede Bonnet, who both found Cape Lookout bight a favorite place to hide, rest and replenish supplies.

Today boaters traveling the coast make sure they plan a day or two in Beaufort to enjoy the many walk-to restaurants—including savoring a long-anticipated cheeseburger at the Royal James. Yes, you will find what is traditionally boasted as the “Best Burger in Beaufort,” as well as local peel & eat shrimp, Boar’s Head deli sandwiches and homemade tuna salad. Don’t forget another favorite—the yummy shrimp burger. Add a fountain drink, a beer or a glass of wine to top it off. The “James” also serves breakfast including southern grits. While there, be sure to check out the Antique Brunswick pool tables—proudly bragged on as “the finest in NC.”

Royal James Café
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Beaufort-The Town and Why It's Unique