Fundraiser from GEM Adult services at Kelly's Outer Banks Tavern in 2016. Fundraising was a frequent activity at the bar.End of an Era Comes Sooner Than Expected
Last week Mike Kelly confirmed rumors that had been swirling about for some time—at the end of November he will be closing Kelly's Outer Banks Tavern.
If there is a surprise in this, it is that the closing is coming much sooner than expected. Most observers felt Mike would keep his flagship operation open through the New Year to take full advantage of the revenues the end of year celebrations generate.
For at least a year, Mike has been in negotiations with Lidl, a German discount grocery chain. With almost five acres available, the lot is one of the few left that is considered suitable for a large standalone store.
For long-time visitors to the Outer Banks and residents, there is a sense of an end of an era. Kelly's has always been for years the go to place to meet friends or catch some live music. Perhaps most significantly, Mike has always been generous with the use of his facility, working with a number of local nonprofit when they needed a place for a fundraiser.
Opened in 1985 after purchasing the original building, Kelly's soon became the centerpiece of Outer Banks nightlife. With a large bar area, national acts could be booked on the Outer Banks.
As Kelly's popularity grew, so did the need for more space and about 15 years ago, Mike doubled the capacity of his tavern.
It's a mistake, though, to think Kelly's is just a bar with entertainment. From the outset, the restaurant set a high bar for well-prepared food, an excellent wine list and outstanding service.
The success of the restaurant allowed Mike to expand, and the Kelly Hospitality Group now includes Pamlico Jack's in Nags Head, Mako Mikes in Kill Devil Hills and Kelly's Catering Services. There are no plans to close or discontinue any other of the operations.
