BY MILES LAYTON
ENGELHARD — I have news, big news!
Martelle’s Feed House Restaurant has been sold — a family from Manteo bought it within the last two weeks or so, according to the popular restaurant’s longtime owner, Martelle Marshall.
Martelle’s will stay open – Martelle is giving the keys to the new owners in August. More on the new owners will appear in a future story.
The big news for now – Martelle’s will stay open – continue to serve good food with great service!
Martelle, 75, is retiring after nearly 28 years of service. Retirement? Not really; Martelle said he plans to spend time with his middle son Justin at Carolina Beach, catch up around the house, mow the yard – “not ready to sit back by any means.” Congrats on retirement!
Martelle welcomed me to the community – nice guy – born and raised in Hyde County. Many generations of his family have attended Mattamuskeet School where I’ll be teaching in August.
Nestled alongside U.S. Highway 264, Martelle’s has long served as a beloved beacon of Southern hospitality and home-cooked fare for residents and visitors alike. Rated over 4 stars on review platforms, the establishment is consistently praised for its fried chicken, hearty barbecue, fresh seafood, and a well-stocked salad bar.
For folks living outside Hyde County – I can say that the food is excellent. Southern food at its core. Wait staff is great, they know customers’ names. Fried okra – the real stuff. Great gravy to pour over rice. Do the buffett.
Founded in 1997 as a barbecue and catering business, Martelle’s expanded in 2003 to accommodate up to 150 diners, and introduced an oyster bar and expanded menu options—from ribeyes and thick-cut pork chops to seafood like scallops and shrimp.
Whether hosting private affairs for 80–90 guests or welcoming individual diners, Martelle’s Feed House continues to draw people from Hyde County and beyond, offering generous portions, soulful flavors, and a strong sense of community.
Dining hours typically run Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. and 5 p.m.–8 p.m., with shorter Sunday hours and closure on Mondays. Takeout and catering services are available, although delivery is not.
News from Ocracoke: When the auction of the Silver Lake Motel, Inn, Suites, and Jolly Roger Properties was held on July, 25, the property was sold to a Greenville family for $4.1 million, according to a social media post from Country Boys Auction. The buyers are excited to make these properties island gems again and to bring back the Jolly Roger! More on this later.