Zillie's Island Pantry

Zillie’s Pantry was named in honor of Barzilla O’Neal who lived on Ocracoke Island from October 30, 1859 to June 10, 1939. Barzilla was unmarried and affectionately known by Islanders as “Miss Zillie.” She lived with her sister on Ocracoke’s Back Road and helped raise several nieces and nephews. Everyone on the island thought that Miss Zillie was a great cook. She was particularly known for her tasty homemade yeast rolls. When Miss Zillie’s Odoriferous Rolls were praised, she would proudly cite her motto: “Don’t let your pantry become empty or bare – Otherwise the devil will make his home there!” One of Miss Zillies nephews, Oscar Jackson, could often be seen traversing the “Back Road” sporting his beloved sailor’s cap. It is rumored that he and his buddies Clee, Wilbur, Tom Frank’s Joe, and Bill produced some of the very finest “Meal Wine” that Ocracoke Island has ever had to offer. Today, we honor Miss Zillie’s tradition of great wine and good food with this Zillie’s story– Zillie’s Island Pantry offering excellent selections here on Ocracoke Island since 2005.