South of KDG — Restaurant in Nags Head

I decided to take a chance getting a table for two walking in at 6:30pm on a Saturday (June 28) on one of the busiest weeks in Nag's Head.  The maitre d' was very friendly but understandably wasn't sure if he could fit us in.  The restaurant was full and they had a big party coming in.  But there was one table for two left and we got it instantly, so we decided to eat quickly.

Our waitress was named Sunmer and she was outstanding, fun to talk with and informative.  I ordered the scallops and pork bellies; my daughter got shrimp and pasta.  I ordered the sweeter version of the pain killer for a drink and it came back right away.  It was delicious and well made.  The drink is pineapple juice, OJ, coconut cream and nutmeg.  The coconut cream was quality and the nutmeg was freshly ground.  Solid bar experience. I had Prosecco later and it came well chilled.

The food came amazingly fast for a packed house!  The scallops were excellent: fresh, tender, cooked to perfection, and well seasoned.  The pork bellies and shrimp were also very good.  The portions were generous and we didn't want to linger so we didn't get dessert.

The restaurant was packed but the whole staff was totally on their game.  Fast and happy.  Not a hint of stress.  A laid back vibe and the waitress and maitre d' even had time to chat with folks while doing everything so well and quickly.

I will definitely be coming back.  This place makes a nice addition to this area of Nag's Head.  They are only a few months old (their main restaurant is in Kill Devil Hills) so...

Reviewing after our second visit to South of KDG. Both times the service was efficient but food was a mixed bag. On our first visit, the backyard wings were under grilled and the skin was overly chewy. The second time, however, the wings were on point and basically as good as the OG. From an entrees perspective, the shrimp tostada on the specials menus was tasty but the fried mahi sandwich was meh, with several very thin fried fish pieces on a bun versus a single thicker filet - meaning way too much breading and couldn’t taste the fish at all. The key downside for us, however, was the bar area which is where we prefer to sit when we go out. The view from the bar at SoKDG is directly into the kitchen area and includes watching the staff scraping plates into the trash can and running the dishwasher. Coupled with the kitchen noise and a limited draft beer list, this just wasn’t our fav place. We are huge fans of the original KDG, but unfortunately SoKDG just didn’t do it for us. If you don’t care about sitting at the bar, maybe worth a try. (Scoring: minus 1/2 star for food, minus 1/2 star for limited food and draft menus, and minus 1 star for bar...

South KDG is a standout spot that masterfully blends Southwestern flair with fresh, flavorful seafood. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere pulls you in—warm, stylish, and buzzing with energy, it's the kind of place that feels perfect for both a casual dinner and a special night out.

The food is nothing short of excellent. Every dish we tried was packed with bold, vibrant flavors, clearly crafted with care and creativity. The unique spin on classic seafood dishes with Southwestern influences really sets this place apart.

Service was attentive without being overbearing, and everything arrived at the perfect pace. South KDG manages to strike a rare balance between upscale quality and a relaxed, welcoming vibe.

If you're looking for a restaurant that delivers on both taste and experience, South KDG is absolutely worth a visit....