Holden Beach is small, and the food matches: a handful of seafood shacks and casual restaurants, with most of the variety on the mainland in Shallotte just over the bridge. On the island itself, expect fried fish baskets, hush puppies, soft-serve, and frozen drinks. Make a reservation in July and August, when the island's summer population is many times its year-round size, or eat early. The best meals are often the ones you cook yourself with shrimp bought off the boat at the bridge.