maryland crab

We are off to Santa Fe for a week of food and wine. Have reservations at Geronimo's already. Seems people love it or think it overpriced, but we are going to give it a shot. Looking for other ideas in the much less expensive category. Have heard that Maria's is a good spot as well as Dave's Not Here. Anyone have thoughts on these or any other ideas. Would like to stay away from the plaza if possible.

You might also try Hollywood East in Wheaton. It has a huge menu that I believe to be authentic - certainly packed with Eastern customers.

I am a new member to this forum, and believe that I can help you. I own a house in Corolla, so am very familiar with the restaurants. For upscale dining, try the Left Bank, which is right across the street from the Sanderling Inn. $55 three course dinners, $75 five courses. Excellent wine menu. Elizabeth's Cafe in Duck is outstanding - wine with each course but reservations ususally needed well in advance. Don't miss Chili Peppers (about milepost 5 1/2) for lunch. Truly excellent soups etc. The Flying Fish (milepost 8 1/2) has always pleased everyone we have sent. If it is BBQ you wish, there is a stand in Corolla that is first rate. Going north on Route 12 you pass the lighthouse on the left and continue to the road leading to the old chapel and gift shops. Turn left (usually he has a sign right at the corner) and you can smell the que - his stand is on the right. He has the best baked beans I have ever had and the pulled pork is to die for. I would avoid North Beach in Timbucktu (over-priced) and even Groupers in the same center has never done much for us. Another fun place is the Roadside Cafe in Duck. Really interesting menu items and always well done. Be sure to order the seafood specials. Hope you enjoy - good luck with restaurant crowds as things will start hopping in the Outer Banks. Lots of flooded properties with the huge amounts of rain year to date, but the sun can't be too far behind.