2025 Restaurants Guide

Eternal Sunshine Café is a bright and cheerful spot to start the day with slightly unique breakfast and brunch fare that is sure to surprise even seasoned Wilmington food fans. Located just off of US Highway 74, this easy-going eatery is a...

Falcone’s Italian Restaurant and Pizza is a classic Italian food restaurant in a slightly busy section of Leland that’s easy to reach via US Highway 17. Tucked away in a busy shopping center, this small but welcoming restaurant features...

Famous Pizza and Subs is a convenient destination for a crowd pleasing take-out or fast and casual dine-in meal, just outside of Downtown Southport. Located close to the junction of 87 and 211 – the two main roads that lead to Southport...

Visitors who are cruising along the Cape Fear coastline from Oak Island to Southport can enjoy a fully satisfying break from the car with a visit to Fat Andy’s Burgers. Located in a tiny but tasteful coastal shack along Long Beach Rd, this...

Fat Tony’s Italian Pub is where comfort food and Downtown Wilmington’s hip bar scene combine, to completely decadent and filling results. Located just a block away from the waterfront, this casual stop for Italian fare, pizza, and...

Locals and visitors in the Ogden area, which is just north of Wilmington along US Highway 17, can satisfy a hankering for Asian cuisine with a visit to Fire Bowl. Featuring a vast menu that’s chock-full of traditional Chinese, Japanese and...

The Fish House Grill is located on the foot of the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge, and has been a Wilmington institution for generations of hungry, seafood loving patrons. The idyllic setting perfectly complements the extensive and seafood-heavy...

Blue Water Point Motel & Marina is an all-encompassing destination for mariners who are cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway to dock, dine, and enjoy a night off the water in the small coastal town of Oak Island.

The Fishy Fishy Café is a favorite dining and drinks destination for Southport visitors, due to a prime location on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway where the views are out of this world. Located next to a collection of local marinas...

Flaming Amy’s Bowl has surpassed its original reputation as a go-to for hungry UNCW college students, and is now a veritable favorite Wilmington eatery in its own right, thanks to a towering menu that can be effortlessly customized to cater to...

Oceanfront dining is always a thrill for Cape Fear visitors, and the Flying Fish Café is a favorite spot on Oak Island for visitors to feast on coastally-inspired creations while enjoying a lovely on-the-sand view. With both traditional and...

Downtown Wilmington visitors don’t have to meander too far to join North Carolina’s growing homegrown beer craze, thanks to the centrally located Flytrap Brewing. Found just a few blocks away from the waterfront along Walnut Street, and...

Folks Café is a sweet little coffee shop that’s found on the outskirts of Downtown Wilmington in an unimposing, (and very easy to pass by), one-story brick “home” in a cluster of small downtown homes. Though the outside...

The Fork N Cork is serving up a new blend of Artisan cuisine to the diners of Wilmington, with truly creative fare that takes advantage of local flavors, seasonal ingredients, and a hefty amount of imagination.

The Fox and Hound Pub & Grille is a prime destination for visitors to relax with a pint and a hearty meal after a long day of shopping in the ultra-posh Mayfaire Town center. Featuring a full menu of drinks and lunch and dinnertime traditional...

Enjoy an easy meal without ever leaving the boardwalk with a stop at Franks Pizza. Serving Carolina Beach vacationers for more than 40 years, this casual pizza joint has satisfied generations of families with big floppy slices that are more than...

Visitors will find a surprising addition to the classic beach shops, bars, and restaurants that hug the Kure Beach oceanfront in the form of Freddie’s Restaurant. Easy to identify, thanks to a lemon yellow exterior and classic red, white and...

Beer fans who want to see what brews the Coastal Carolina region can cook up can pay a lunchtime, dinnertime, Happy Hour or late night visit to Front Street Brewery. Known for a collection of flagship brews that are available in kegs, German...

Head to the very edge of waterfront Southport to enjoy a fine meal with an unbeatable view at the Frying Pan. This restaurant that’s located on the edge of Bay Street boasts local and down-home favorites like sweet potato biscuits, fried...

Genki is a fresh Japanese and sushi joint that’s tucked away along the popular Market Street in the New Centre shopping district. Boasting colorful and flavorful dishes that can satisfy any craving for Japanese fare, this eatery is a fun...

Take a break from strolling along the Wilmington Riverwalk and enjoy an impeccable meal with a waterfront view at The George. Featuring vast vistas of the adjacent Cape Fear River, and located in the heart of the downtown area, this brunch, lunch...

Visitors who are enjoying a round at Hampstead’s popular Olde Point Golf and Country Club can polish off a game with a fresh lunch, post-game drink, or tempting dinner at the acclaimed Georges At Olde Point. Featuring a statuesque bar and...

Golden Dragon is a traditional Chinese Food restaurant with a convenient locale along Kerr Street, which is just a stone’s throw away from College Road, Oleander Drive, and the borders of the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Offering...

Beach-goers who are in the mood for an ice cold brew after a full day on the beach, and who also appreciate a taste of something locally crafted and just a little different, will appreciate Carolina Beach’s own Good Hops Brewing. This local...

Goody Goody Omelet House Restaurant has the look, the feel, and the grub of a classic southern breakfast and lunch joint, with an accompanying long menu that features all the classics. Located in a vintage building along busy Market Street, this...

The Cape Fear region is home to a wealth of good old fashioned southern cooking, and Carolina Beach’s own Grannys Country Kitchen brings these comfort food flavors to the heart of the shoreline, with a central locale that’s just a block...

The wonderfully unique Greenlands Farm Store is worth a detour from the Southport Waterfront or Oak Island due to its petting zoo and gorgeous Bolivia, NC scenery alone. But visitors who stay to feast at the Farm Store will be rewarded with an...

Patrons who want to settle in for a warm cup of coffee on a well-worn and soft couch, or who crave an easy bite to eat in a relaxing coffee house setting, will find a lot to love about Grinder’s Café. This small coffee shop specializes...

The Gulf Stream Restaurant is a casual little restaurant that borders a handful of shops and marinas in the heart of Carolina Beach. Featuring a classic exterior and a wealth of classic back-to-basic eats, this family-friendly restaurant has just...

For many Oak Island vacationers, the biggest draw of a coastal vacation is the option to pick up a wealth of local Cape Fear seafood to enjoy at home on the grill, in the oven, or on the stove top, and the home grown Haag & Sons Seafood delivers...

As the name would suggest, Hang Ten Grill is a casual beach joint with a definitive surfer vibe that serves as the perfect hang-out after a long morning or afternoon of riding the waves in Carolina Beach. Located along Carolina Beach’s...

BEST FOOD ON THE ISLAND, HANDS DOWN

Havana’s is an all-encompassing steak, seafood and pasta restaurant that’s just a shell’s throw from the bridge to Wrightsville Beach. Offering lunch, dinner and Sunday Brunch in a casual but slightly upscale atmosphere...

Movie buffs and foodies alike will have a fine time at Hell’s Kitchen, a chic little Downtown Wilmington restaurant that had a guest role in the homegrown TV series, “Dawson’s Creek.” Located just a couple blocks away from...

For fine cuisine that benefits from an overall “Farm to Table” philosophy, visitors can head over to Henry’s. Boasting a vintage warm interior with a long bar and an accompanying collection of booths and tables, and a commercially...

Hibachi Grill Supreme Buffet is a traditional Chinese food buffet that offers an array of lunch and dinner options for hungry Asian food fans. With plenty of seating, and expansive rows of hot and cold items, (as well as sushi), Hibachi Grill is a...

This brightly colored and expansive restaurant along Market Street is an eye-catching destination for seafood fans. Featuring a far-reaching menu of steamed, broiled, grilled and fried seafaring creations, Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster...

Visitors who are exploring the shops off of College Road, Market Street, and Eastwood Road can cap off a long day with a true Hibachi experience with a visit to Hiro Japanese Steak House. Offering the full “show,” with complete Hibachi...

Wilmington has more than its fair share of exceptional pizza joints, and even locals and visitors who are in the quieter Cape Fear regions, like the northern city outskirts near Interstate 40, will find a fantastic pizza joint to call their own...

“Pleasure Island” is all about having fun, and the Hoplite Pub & Beer Garden, a true pub or “public house” lives up to this reputation with a full menu of brews and pub grub, and a relaxed setting that stays open well...

Hops Supply Co is a fresh gastropub on Oleander Drive that impresses patrons with its equally distinctive drink and food menus. With an internal dedication to provide an exceptional beer selection, as well as fresh and flavorful cuisine, Hops Supply...

Summertime visitors who want to hop off the beach and enjoy a cold drink, an easy-going bite to eat, and a fine oceanfront view can stroll along the boardwalk to reach Hurricane Alleys. Located just off the dunes, this beach bar and restaurant in...

Ichiban Express is a small and unimposing eatery that’s found just a stroll away from the UNCW campus, but the solid fare and inexpensive prices makes this quick stop for Japanese cuisine a crowd pleaser. Fast and easy to enjoy in a hurry...

Ida Thai Cuisine is a refreshing little restaurant that’s found just inland of the Carolina Beach shoreline, and which is renowned for a heavy collection of authentic Thai dishes. Located in a vibrant green restaurant, and therefore hard to...

Indochine has garnered a reputation as one of the most inviting Thai and Vietnamese restaurants in Wilmington, and for good reason. The vibrant and colorful menu is almost overshadowed by the exquisite surroundings, which includes an extensive...

Inlet View is a fine spot for Southport visitors to slip into an island lifestyle, thanks to a sea-worthy menu, and a location that’s on a quiet edge of the Intracoastal Waterway. Easy to access by visitors who are travelling by boat or by car...

Downtown Wilmington visitors who want to cap off a full day of shopping and exploring can make a stop at the homegrown Ironclad Brewery for a wonderfully crafted pint or two in a casual, spacious, and all-around historic environment.

Water lovers can enjoy a decadent seafood meal that’s complemented with a stunning view of the ocean with a visit to Oak Island’s Island Way. Located along Beach Road and bordering a quiet stretch of sand that’s home to small...

Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill is a fun destination for a Happy Hour drink and round of appetizers, an easy-going lunch or dinner, or a late-night snack right before the party begins. Located next to the Kure Beach Fishing Pier, and popular with...

When you’re in the south, you have to chow down on big plates of homestyle BBQ, and Jackson’s Big Oak Barbecue doesn’t disappoint southern food fans, thanks to a hefty menu that’s loaded with all the staples. Featuring a...

Jade Garden is a fast and friendly Chinese food restaurant that’s found near a bustling and primarily residential section of Leland. Located close to both a grocery store and Highway 74 / 76, Jade Garden is a convenient spot for hurried locals...

Jade Garden is an easy-to-access and easy to enjoy Chinese Food restaurant that is found on the northern outskirts of Wilmington in the small Cape Fear community of Rocky Point. Close to a collection of local stores and businesses, this restaurant...

As the name would suggest, Java Dog is one of Downtown Wilmington’s few establishments where dogs aren’t only welcome, they’re expected. This cool coffee shop that’s located on the edge of Front Street and is just steps away...

Jax Fifth Avenue Deli & Ale House may look like a Swiss retreat, but the downhome cuisine and friendly atmosphere is the hallmark of a southern destination. Featuring an expansive interior with plenty of bar seating and TVs to watch the big...

Jebby’s on 17 is an American grill and sports bar that’s impossible to miss, thanks to a convenient locale along Highway 17 in Hampstead, and a vibrant blue exterior that’s perfect for its close-to-the-coast locale. A fun...

Jerry’s is the brainchild of Jerry Rouse – a Wilmington local who is famed for his nearly 40 years of catering experience. While fresh catering is still available, everyday patrons without a big party to plan can still taste the cuisine...

Veer just outside of the heart of Downtown Wilmington and you’ll discover Jester’s Café – a fun and funky café that specializes in traditional breakfast and lunch fare with a twist. Decked out in vibrant colors, and...

Jimbo’s Breakfast & Lunch House, an old school diner-style restaurant with a vintage exterior and sky-high sign, is a time-tested staple for solid breakfast and lunch fare in a basic but nevertheless inviting family-style environment...

Take in the spectacular views of the intracoastal waterway while dining with friends and family. Executive Chef Joe Paxton has created a crave-worthy dinner menu based around coastal favorites and seasonal vegetables sourced from local and regional...

Jones’ Seafood House is a local restaurant in the heart of Oak Island that has been serving vacationers for more than 50 years. A popular spot for generations of families who return year after year, the restaurant has heaping plates of seafood...

Enjoy a taste of Italy while admiring the waterfront heart of Southport with a visit to Joseph’s Italian Bistro. Located next to a cluster of marinas, and featuring a fine view of the adjacent Intracoastal Waterway, this restaurant is popular...

Juggling Gypsy Café is a completely original destination where food, drinks, live music, a hookah bar, and even belly dancing can all be found. A popular hang-out with the college crowd, and a fun late-night destination for laid-back yet...

K-38 Baja Grill is Wilmington’s time-tested favorite for Fresh Mex cuisine and a definitive surfer vibe. Found along a hopping section of Market Street, this flagship restaurant serves up plenty of vibrant coastal cuisine in a laid-back...

Kabuki Korean Cafe & Sushi Bar is a distinctive restaurant that’s perfect for central Wilmington visitors who are in the mood for something that’s miles away from ordinary. Found along a bustling section of Oleander Drive, this...

Kate’s Pancake House is a sunny destination for early risers, thanks to a colorful menu and bright interior that provides a great introduction to a day at the beach. Found in the heart of Carolina Beach along the central Lake Park Blvd, and...

Katy’s Grill and Bar is a haven for sports fans, thanks to a recently renovated living room, a full bar with rows of flat screen TVs, a cool outdoor dining area complete with shady umbrella-topped tables, and an array of flags outside that...

The Keg and Egg is a craft beer emporium with a big Pittsburgh-style influence which, when combined, creates a hearty menu that is sure to appease beer fans and hungry patrons alike. This unique beer garden and sandwich shop is a relatively new...

King Neptune Restaurant is an all-encompassing breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night hot spot that boasts a friendly hometown vibe, and a big wave of classic American fare with a coastal and southern influence. Known as a solid breakfast and lunch...

Kornerstone Bistro is a fun and slightly elevated little restaurant along Market Street that specializes in Italian, Mediterranean, and Latin cuisine. Boasting heaping plates of fresh pasta, and eye-catching appetizers that pair perfect with a...

Kyoto Asian Grille, a chic Asian fusion, Japanese and Thai restaurant with a warm and friendly atmosphere, is a favorite local destination for fresh and colorful Asian-inspired cuisine. Boasting an extensive menu and plenty of flavor, patrons can...

A coastal town like Wilmington always appreciates fresh Mexican fare, and La Güera is the local go-to for authentic Latin cuisine at its budget-friendly best. Far beyond the typical tacos and burritos, (although those are certainly available)...

Lane’s Ferry Dock & Grill is a lunch and dinner joint that’s found within a small residential-looking structure near the Cape Fear River. Though the region is little-known and seldom visited, the restaurant, and the surrounding area...

Las Olas Mexi-Q Grill is a relatively new but popular restaurant that is a sister restaurant to Wilmington’s acclaimed surfer hang-out, K-38. Found in the heart of the Mayfaire area along Military Cutoff Road, this Fresh Mex establishment is...

Welcome to Laws & Libations! Your new favorite hangout! We have the best draft beer selection in town, along with our signature cocktails, a huge selection of bottles and cans, and free pool all night long!

Lazy Pirate Island Sports Grill is a fun spot for beach fans and night owls alike, with a wealth of entertainment that’s just steps away from the wide outdoor patio and bar. Known for ice cold drinks, casual beach eats, and plenty of ways to...

Little Bit’s Grill is a small establishment in the heart of Oak Island that might be easy to pass by, but shouldn’t be missed by burger lovers and anyone who is craving a salty, decadent beach treat. Featuring a simple burger and...

Live Oak Café is a small but charming restaurant that’s found in a quiet and slightly inland region of historic Downtown Southport. Located within a turn-of-the-century home with three small dining rooms with beautiful bold...

Southport visitors who are in need of a strong cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast or lunch to start their downtown exploration will find everything they crave at the centrally located Locals Family Diner. Featuring a wealth of crowd-pleasing...

Loco Jo’s Grill is a fun destination for Cape Fear visitors to settle into a table or bar stool and feast on a colorful array of both traditional American, southern, and even global fare. With a unique menu that goes well beyond the typical...

Long Island Eatery is a classic New York Delicatessen and coffee bar that was founded by authentic New Yorkers and which is a decent spot to find a wide array of fresh salads, sandwiches, desserts, and drinks to enjoy in the NYC-themed deli itself...