Tucked along the charming waterfront of Beaufort, North Carolina, Clawson’s 1905 Restaurant & Pub has been winning hearts with its incredible food for decades. This beloved spot at 425 Front Street is famous for its fish and chips, but there is so much more to love about this place.
From its vintage decor to its fresh seafood and friendly staff, Clawson’s offers a dining experience that keeps people coming back again and again. Whether you are a local or just passing through, this restaurant deserves a spot on your must-visit list.
The Famous Fish and Chips
Few dishes earn the kind of loyal fan base that Clawson’s fish and chips have built over the years. Reviewers rave about the flounder fillets, with one guest noting that their son received two big, generous pieces that were cooked to absolute perfection.
The batter is golden and crispy, giving each bite a satisfying crunch before you reach the tender, flaky fish inside. One thing to keep in mind is that the chips are best enjoyed right away, so dig in while everything is hot.
This dish alone has convinced visitors to make the three-and-a-half-hour drive just to eat at Clawson’s again. If you are a fan of classic pub-style fish and chips, this is the version that will set the standard for every other one you try afterward.
The Legendary Dirigible Stuffed Baked Potato
Heard about this potato on the radio and skeptical it could live up to the hype? One guest called it quite possibly the best stuffed baked potato they had ever eaten, and after one look at the size of it, you will understand why.
The Dirigible is Clawson’s signature stuffed baked potato, available in the classic OG version or loaded up with fried shrimp on top. It is an enormous portion, and more than one diner has had to make the tough call of boxing up the leftovers.
The combination of fluffy potato, rich toppings, and perfectly crispy shrimp creates something that feels both comforting and indulgent all at once. The owner personally visits tables to make sure guests are happy, which shows just how much pride goes into every single dish served here.
Mahi Mahi Done Right
One reviewer made a bold claim about the mahi at Clawson’s: it is, by far, the best mahi meal you will ever eat. That is a strong statement, but the reviews back it up time and time again with enthusiastic descriptions of perfectly cooked fish every single visit.
The mahi mahi is typically served alongside rice, green beans, and carrots, creating a well-balanced and satisfying plate. It is the kind of meal that feels both fresh and thoughtfully prepared rather than just tossed together.
Whether you order it as a nightly special or from the regular menu, the quality stays consistently impressive. Guests who tried the mahi tacos also loved the Asian slaw that came with them, which added a bright, crunchy contrast to the tender fish.
Clawson’s clearly knows how to handle fresh seafood with skill.
Pick 3 Fried Seafood Platter
Choosing just one seafood dish at Clawson’s can feel nearly impossible, which is exactly why the Pick 3 Fried Seafood Platter exists. Guests get to mix and match their favorites, making it a crowd-pleasing option for anyone who wants a little bit of everything.
One recent visitor described the platter as excellent, specifically calling out the flounder for its amazing taste. Pair your selections with an order of the onion rings, which have developed their own devoted following among regulars and first-timers alike.
The portions are generous, the frying is done well, and the whole experience feels like a proper coastal seafood feast. Clawson’s has been doing this long enough to know that quality and quantity both matter when it comes to a platter like this.
You will leave the table completely satisfied and probably already planning your next order.
Crab Cakes Worth Every Bite
Getting crab cakes just right is an art form, and Clawson’s has clearly mastered it. One reviewer described them as perfectly balanced, not too dry and not too moist, which is exactly what any crab cake lover is looking for in a seafood dish.
The crab cakes are available both as an appetizer and as a sandwich option, giving you flexibility depending on how hungry you are when you walk through the door. Either way, the flavor is clean, fresh, and satisfying without being overpowering.
Paired with a cup of seafood bisque, the crab cakes make for a starter combination that is genuinely hard to beat. Several guests have mentioned them as a highlight of the entire meal, which is saying something given how strong the rest of the menu is at this Beaufort gem.
Shrimp and Grits That Comfort the Soul
Southern comfort food does not get much better than a well-made bowl of shrimp and grits, and Clawson’s delivers a version that has guests talking long after they leave. Rich, creamy grits topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp make this dish a true standout on the menu.
One visitor called it really good alongside their fried seafood platter, which shows just how versatile and satisfying this classic coastal dish can be. The cheesy grits option has also earned praise, with reviewers noting that the texture and flavor hit exactly the right notes.
For anyone visiting Beaufort for the first time, shrimp and grits at Clawson’s is a must-order experience that captures the spirit of the North Carolina coast. It is warm, filling, and full of flavor, the kind of dish that makes you slow down and truly enjoy every spoonful.
The Vintage Atmosphere and Historic Building
Walking into Clawson’s feels like stepping through a time portal in the best possible way. The building dates back to 1905 and was originally used as a post office, giving it a fascinating history that you can almost feel in the thick wooden beams and exposed brick walls.
Original hardwood floors, antiques, and memorabilia fill every corner of the space, creating an atmosphere that is warm, unique, and genuinely charming. Guests consistently describe the interior as beautiful and inviting, with one reviewer saying it has a classic feel without ever feeling dated or stuffy.
The vintage saloon-like vibe adds a layer of personality that sets Clawson’s apart from newer, more generic dining spots. Whether you are sitting in a cozy booth or at the bar, the setting makes every meal feel like a special occasion worth remembering and sharing with friends.
Craft Beers and Creative Cocktails
Clawson’s is not just a restaurant, it is a full-on pub experience with a solid lineup of craft beers and handcrafted cocktails. The bar draws in both locals and tourists looking for a relaxed place to unwind after a day exploring Beaufort’s beautiful waterfront.
One guest raved about the bartender’s specialty blueberry Cosmo, calling it absolutely delicious and worth a return visit on its own. The selection of IPAs also gets consistent praise from beer lovers who appreciate having quality options to pair with their seafood meals.
Whether you are sitting at the bar chatting with the staff or grabbing drinks before dinner, the beverage program at Clawson’s adds a fun and social dimension to the whole experience. The bartenders are known for being personable and skilled, making every visit feel like catching up with a friendly neighbor.
Mud Pie Dessert That Ends the Night Perfectly
Saving room for dessert at Clawson’s is not optional, it is a requirement. The mud pie has earned its own fan club among diners who describe it as the perfect finishing touch to an already fantastic meal.
One reviewer called it the topping on a terrific culinary experience, which is high praise considering how strong the appetizers and main courses already are. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy ice cream, and the satisfying crunch of the crust makes it a dessert worth every calorie.
Key lime pie is another standout on the dessert menu, with at least one guest calling it outstanding and highly recommending it to anyone visiting the restaurant for the first time. Clawson’s clearly puts as much thought into ending the meal well as it does into starting it right.
Do not skip the sweets here.
Friendly and Attentive Service
Great food means very little if the service falls flat, and Clawson’s seems to understand that better than most restaurants. Multiple reviewers have gone out of their way to name specific servers and bartenders who made their visits genuinely memorable and warm.
One guest praised their server Wayne for being attentive and pleasant, while another highlighted Kayla at the bar for her welcoming energy and amazing drinks. The owner and manager are also known for stopping by tables personally, which adds a thoughtful, personal touch that guests clearly appreciate.
Of course, no restaurant is perfect, and a few reviews have pointed out occasional hiccups in service. But the overwhelming majority of feedback paints a picture of a team that truly cares about making every guest feel at home.
That kind of hospitality is rare and worth celebrating whenever you find it.
Waterfront Location in Beautiful Beaufort
Location matters, and Clawson’s has one of the best spots in all of Beaufort. Sitting right on Front Street, the restaurant is steps away from the town’s picturesque harbor, making it a natural destination for anyone exploring the North Carolina coast.
The combination of a historic building and a waterfront setting creates an atmosphere that feels both relaxed and special. Guests who stumbled upon Clawson’s by accident after being turned away from other restaurants have ended up saying they were glad things worked out the way they did.
Beaufort itself is a gem of a coastal town, full of character and charm, and Clawson’s fits right into that personality. After your meal, you can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the salty breeze, making the whole outing feel like a proper coastal escape from start to finish.
Onion Rings That Steal the Show
Sometimes a side dish becomes the most talked-about item on the table, and at Clawson’s, the onion rings have absolutely earned that reputation. More than one reviewer has described them as to die for, which is the kind of enthusiasm usually reserved for the main course.
Thick, golden, and perfectly battered, these onion rings have a satisfying crunch that holds up well and does not turn soggy before you finish them. They pair beautifully with almost anything on the menu, from the fried seafood platter to a cold craft beer at the bar.
Do not make the mistake of skipping them because you think they are just a side. Order a basket early and let them be part of the full Clawson’s experience.
You will likely find yourself talking about them long after you have driven back home from Beaufort.
A Menu Full of Variety Beyond Seafood
Clawson’s is celebrated for its seafood, but the menu goes well beyond fish and shrimp. Burgers, chicken tenders, mac and cheese, and even a shrimp mac and cheese dish round out a menu that has something genuinely appealing for every type of eater at the table.
One reviewer described the shrimp mac and cheese as an odd combo that somehow works brilliantly, with crispy shrimp adding an unexpected and delightful texture to the creamy pasta. The veggie medley side also surprised at least one guest, who praised it for being perfectly cooked with a bright lemony flavor.
Families, picky eaters, and adventurous foodies can all find something to love here, which makes Clawson’s a reliable choice no matter who you are dining with. The variety and quality together make every visit feel like a new opportunity to discover your next favorite dish on the menu.