Big Daddy's Restaurant and Oyster Bar
A long-standing Mooresville institution since 1974, known for its iconic East Coast atmosphere and extensive seafood menu.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Big Daddy's Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A long-standing Mooresville institution since 1974, known for its iconic East Coast atmosphere and extensive seafood menu.
Try Fried Over Broiled
Reviewers suggest opting for fried seafood options for the best experience.
Ask for Top Servers
Request servers like Brooklyn or Ashley for exceptional and praised service.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
$$$
Phone
(704) 663-4242
Address
1162 River Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28117, USA
Website
bigdaddysoflakenorman.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Seafood Platters
The No. 2 Big Daddy Seafood Platter is a must-order, featuring fried fish, shrimp, oysters, clam strips, and deviled crab.
Fresh Raw Oysters
Indulge in some of the freshest raw oysters available, a standout offering for seafood lovers.
Classic East Coast Atmosphere
Experience an iconic East Coast North Carolina dining atmosphere, a distinctive setting for seafood lovers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Try Fried Over Broiled
Reviewers suggest opting for fried seafood options for the best experience.
Ask for Top Servers
Request servers like Brooklyn or Ashley for exceptional and praised service.
Expect Higher Prices
Be prepared for higher prices, especially for fresh raw oysters and seafood platters.
Visit Off-Peak Hours
Consider visiting during less busy times to potentially reduce wait times for food orders.
Tips
from all over the internet
Try Fried Over Broiled
Reviewers suggest opting for fried seafood options for the best experience.
Ask for Top Servers
Request servers like Brooklyn or Ashley for exceptional and praised service.
Expect Higher Prices
Be prepared for higher prices, especially for fresh raw oysters and seafood platters.
Visit Off-Peak Hours
Consider visiting during less busy times to potentially reduce wait times for food orders.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Big Daddy's offers a classic seafood experience with a notable oyster bar and generous platters, often praised for its fresh ingredients and friendly service. However, some diners find the food to be bland, overpriced, and inconsistent, with occasional issues in service speed and quality.
"Excellent waitress and the food was well-cooked. Hush puppies are fried lightly and not greasy like some places. Everything was very clean.
The only suggestion I have is the blackened grouper and halibut had extremely light seasoning, could've used a good bit more and they would've been perfect."
Brian Siddle
"I had very high hopes for this place considering it is packed out almost every night that I drive past. We waited for over 15 minutes to get a seat at the oyster bar until finally the hostess called to the other hostesses (weird) on the radio and found out they missed our request to be seated. The oyster bar was barely 25% full while we were waiting. Once seated we ordered oyster Rockefeller and it was made with those cheap bacon bits from a bag at the store. Very little flavor and not worth trying. We got 12 steamed oysters and they tasted fine but we were served on an old warped plastic tray with foam cups containing all of our dips. Finally we ordered fried shrimp and the catch of the day. My shrimp was fine but didn't have a lot of flavor and had a bit of an off taste like it may be frozen. The catch of the day was a similar story. Not much flavor with a slight off taste. The service was just fine and the atmosphere was extremely dated, dingy, and felt dirty even though it may not be. Overall I was pretty disappointed and while nothing was bad, it didn't really impress me. I wouldn't go back considering that meal for two cost over $130 after tip."
Joshuagascan
"This was our first time stopping in to eat here and was pleasantly surprised. I have heard a lot of good things about this place and wanted to see for myself if it lived up to all the hype. We got in and got seated really quick. The staff was nothing but nice and informative. We ordered a couple drinks and an appetizer and it was no time till they arrived at our table. It seemed like as soon as we was done with our appetizer our meals came. You couldn't ask for better service and the food was delicious. If you are in the area it definitely worth a visit."
Darren Wallace
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
The No. 2 Big Daddy Seafood Platter, featuring fried fish, shrimp, oysters, clam strips, and deviled crab, is highly recommended. Fresh raw oysters are also a signature item.
Yes, Big Daddy's offers a wide menu with seafood, steaks, and sides that can appeal to various family members. However, some reviews note high prices.
The restaurant offers an iconic East Coast North Carolina dining atmosphere, described as rustic and spacious, with a unique setting by Lake Norman.
According to one review, they do not take reservations, which may lead to waits during busy periods.
Some diners suggest asking for servers like Brooklyn or Ashley, who have received praise for their exceptional service.
Common complaints include bland seasoning on seafood, high prices relative to quality, and occasional slow or inattentive service.
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20 Most Popular Restaurants in Mooresville (NC)
Big Daddy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar on Lake Norman is one of the region’s oldest restaurants. Founded in 1974 by the now locally famous Lancaster family, Big Daddy’s serves up seafood dishes in arguably the most iconic atmosphere of any restaurant in Mooresville. Must-order dish: No. 2 Big Daddy Seafood Platter – fried fish, shrimp, oysters, clam strips, and deviled crab.
60+ Great Restaurants in Mooresville NC (From a Local)
As you drive down Hwy 150, you can’t miss this local staple with its roofline adorned with race cars. Expansive in size, Big Daddy’s restaurant specializes in traditional seafood, steaks, and an extensive selection of sides. It also boasts a substantial salad bar.
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