BELHAVEN — Belhaven is a town full of hidden gems, and The Tavern at Jack’s Neck is one of them.

Walk through the front door, and one steps into a rustic venue created with local materials — part of a boat right off of Jack’s Neck, designs using driftwood from the river, custom bars and tables with wood from Ponzer, varnished by owners Doug and Jimmie Southerland.

Since its opening in 2013, The Tavern has made a name for itself as casual, family dining. Fast forward to 2016, however, and the Southerlands are continuing to build onto the restaurant.

Step from the casual dining area, and in another room there’s the “bourbon bar” for oysters, crab legs and shrimp, as well as high-end bourbon, scotch and rum. The new area is almost complete, according to Jimmie Southerland, and will be another option for seafood-loving diners.

That’s not all.

In yet another room is the smell of sawdust, signaling the beginnings of an imagined steakhouse section, a nicer venue that larger parties can rent. This portion won’t be complete for a while, but the Southerlands are excited to see the vision coming to life.

“Building on what we have. Finishing out what we started,” Jimmie Southerland said. “We have things that are available that aren’t necessarily available in other places.”

She said the restaurant continues to grow each year, and with the expansion has come support from Belhaven and its visitors.

“One of the unique things about The Tavern is that people walk in and they want a hug,” Southerland said. “Visitors are welcomed.”

The Southerlands want there to be something for everyone at the restaurant, but also to always offer a positive experience. Southerland said she thinks The Tavern adds tax value to Belhaven and employees about 20 people.

Along with the expansion, the restaurant also debuted a new sign last week, and new manager Jim Wulforst is working to give a fresh take on things.

“It’s just a real, true gathering place,” Southerland said. “I tagged that a long time ago, and it’s really happening.”

The Tavern at Jack’s Neck is located at 238 Pamlico St., Belhaven.