2025 Restaurants Guide

Louie’s Hot Dogs is a sliver of a restaurant that’s tucked away in Wilmington’s Historic Downtown, and which is less than a block away from the Riverwalk and ensuing waterfront. Measuring only 6 ½ feet wide, this veritable...

Lovey’s Natural Foods & Café is a dream destination for vegetarians, health-conscious eaters, and anyone who craves a healthy meal or an array of natural and organic goodies. Located along Military Cutoff Road, and close to Eastwood...

Luna Caffè is an inviting little coffee shop that’s found in a charming residential neighborhood on the edge of Downtown Wilmington, and which is bordered by historic cottage homes and antique stores. Fitting right in with its...

Main Moon Chinese Restaurant is a conveniently located Chinese food restaurant that allows patrons to enjoy pick-up or delivery service with perfect ease, thanks to an online ordering option, and both lunch and dinner hours of operation. Featuring a...

“Makai” is a Polynesian word meaning “Toward The Sea”. Even if you’ve never been to the Islands, you will still find the spirit of ALOHA at Makai Brewing Company. Explore our menu of craft beer brewed locally here on...

Manna is an enticing fine dining destination in the heat of Downtown Wilmington that applies French techniques to elevated American fare. Using local ingredients whenever possible, diners will be treated to a multi-course menu that is sure to be a...

Mermaid’s Island Grill is a cool restaurant in the heart of Holden Beach that’s known for cold cocktails, good beachy fare, and a laid-back atmosphere that fits in perfectly with the shoreside environment. Located just across the bridge...

Merritt’s Burger House is a classic little drive-in joint that’s been a subtle Wilmington institution for generations. Featuring a drive-in style exterior, complete with an old-school sign, this simple little burger restaurant serves up...

Michael's Seafood Restaurant is an all-encompassing stop for both easy-going seafood meals and catering for casual parties or big events. Located in a central shopping and business section of inland Carolina Beach, this fresh eatery has been wowing...

Midtown Deli is a fresh little sandwich shop that’s found just south of the Downtown Wilmington area along 17thstreet. Boasting a full menu of slightly upscale sandwiches, salads, and other fare that’s worthy of an elite delicatessen or...

Might as Well Bar & Grill is a modest-sized bar and restaurant that’s a solid destination for filling food and Happy Hour or late-night drinks with friends. Boasting a big array of beverages and drink specials, as well as varied but...

Mike’s Bites is a relatively new addition to the Bald Head Island dining scene, and has a unique location in the old Cape Fear Light generator building on Federal Road, which is perfectly convenient for visitors who are checking out the new...

Mike’s Fresh Seafood is located along a busy section of Market Street, but is often overlooked by seafood fans as its rustic exterior and convenience-store vibe might not register with visitors who are looking for fresh casual seafood either...

Ming Yao Restaurant is a classic Chinese take-out food joint that’s convenient for visitors and locals in the Monkey Junction region, and which features an array of Thai, Cantonese, Szechuan, and Hunan-style entrees. Suitable for quick...

Mission BBQ has a cool location, cool interior, and a big menu that boasts a world of bold and classic southern flavors. Opened on September 11, 2011 by two friends who went on a cross-country tour to discover the flavors of truly exceptional...

Moore Street Market is an eye-catching destination for breakfast and lunch that’s found within a historic former home in the heart of Downtown Southport. Located just a shell’s throw away from the waterfront, and featuring an...

Mr. P’s Bistro is a fine representation of Low Country cuisine, thanks to a long family history in the local Cape Fear seafood industry. Overseen by Executive Chef and the original Mr. P’s son, Stephen Phipps, (who trained at the Johnson...

The goal of Nawab Fine Indian Cuisine is to provide authentic and genuine Indian cuisine to patrons at reasonable prices, and for Wilmington locals, this longstanding restaurant accomplishes the goal nicely. Boasting a relatively new locale along...

Though Nicola’s restaurant might not stand out along this busy section of Market Street, the stellar menu, which is loaded with a wealth of Italian favorites and decadent specialties, will lead visitors and locals back to this Italian joint...

The Oak Island Sub Shop is a fast and convenient destination for beach-goers and central Oak Island explorers to grab an easy-going lunch or donner that’s nicely filling and pairs well with the sandy, salty environment. Located along Oak...

Visitors who crave a refreshing seaside bite with an unbeatable view will want to check out the Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar. Sandwiched in between two hotels, and perched directly on the oceanfront with a long pier that extends to the water’s...

The Oceanic is the only oceanfront restaurant and pier on Wrightsville Beach, and as such, is a very popular spot for semi-casual lunches, refined dinners, and massive special events with an Atlantic backdrop. Attached to the Crystal Pier, which...

Oceans is a chick little dining option for visitors who are staying in Wrightsville Beach’s sprawling Holiday Inn Resort. Featuring a large and open dining room, as well as several nearby lounges that boast indoor or outdoor ocean views...

Ogden Tap Room is Wilmington’s newest haven for beer lovers, thanks to an extensive beer menu that includes 40 rotating beers on tap. Coupled with an inviting interior, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a full menu of great pub fare, Ogden Tap...

Okami Japanese Steakhouse offers a wide range of dining experiences under one extensive roof along College Road. From the traditional Japanese steak house “show,” with flying knives and freshly prepared cuisine, to the buffet-style lunch...

Old Bridge Diner is a classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner spot that’s both budget-friendly and easy to reach for visitors who are staying both on and off Oak Island. Located on Country Club Drive, and almost hidden next to a busy convenience...

The Olde Salty’s is a local icon that has been serving Carolina Beach vacationers for more than 20 years. Found within a fairly non-descript building along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, this classic lunch and dinner spot serves up...

Olde Southport Village Shoppes is a perfectly charming collection of about a half dozen local stores and services that will delight downtown explorers of all interests. Located along Howe Street, on the outskirts of the heart of the downtown area...

Visitors and locals who are running errands or enjoying a leisurely day of shopping along Oleander Drive can satisfy a big Greek appetite with a visit to Olympia Restaurant. Tucked away in a small shopping center off of Hilton Ave, this little...

Sample decadent Italian cuisine in a beautifully ornate atmosphere with a visit to Osteria Cicchetti. This classic but slightly modern bistro has a wonderful selection of Italian specialties that are sure to appease any hankering for decadent global...

As the name aptly suggests, Our Crepes & More offers a vast range of both sweet and savory crepes that is sure to give Wilmington newcomers a delicious introduction to this traditional French cuisine. Located on a busy stretch of Oleander Drive...

Wilmington visitors who are touring the downtown area’s famed Cotton Exchange can whet an appetite for a cold drink, a hearty lunch, or a decadent dinner with a visit to Paddy’s Hollow. Featuring an authentic brick-lined atmosphere...

Visitors and locals who are cruising along Carolina Beach Road and who are hungry for a laid-back lunch or dinner that’s topped with a frozen treat can swing by the casual but tasty Papa Fin’s. Tucked away among a collection of shops...

Enjoy a great hot dog with a little dose of local history with a stop at Pauls Place Famous Hotdogs, which is found about 15 miles north of Wilmington in the small town of Rocky Point. A popular local destination for roughly 90 years, this hot dog...

Vacationers who are staying at the Bald Head Island Club don’t have to venture too far away from the sprawling and sparkling pool to find a good and casual spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, thanks to the on-site Pelicatessen. Featuring...

Pembroke’s is a favorite choice for fine dining in the Mayfaire region of Wilmington. Located just off of Military Cutoff Road, longtime fans declare that Pembroke’s is more of a “dining experience” than a place to go to eat...

The Pepperoni Grill is a neighborhood pizzeria where Oak Island vacationers can get together and enjoy a family-friendly meal over a big pizza pie, a classic Italian sandwich, or a hearty pasta dish. Located just a block away from the oceanfront...

Fresh seafood, southern cuisine, and the Downtown Wilmington waterfront all seem to go together seamlessly, and the fare and atmosphere at The Pilot House is no exception to this rule. Found within a former historic residence that dates back to...

There’s a little something for everyone to savor at the Pine Valley Market. Centrally located along College Road, this modest-sized establishment specializes in catering, fresh meats, wine, prepared foods to feast on at home, gourmet goodies...

PinPoint Restaurant is a chic little downtown restaurant with a big reputation as the perfect destination for a romantic Wilmington date night. Featuring a relatively seasonal menu that showcases local ingredients at every opportunity, the colorful...

Pirate’s Table Seafood Restaurant is a classic seafood restaurant that’s found along Carolina Beach road, and features all the Cape Fear region classics, but without the big close-to-the-beach prices. With a simple exterior and a simple...

For decadent pizza and pasta, Pizzetta’s Pizzeria is hard to beat. Though Pizzetta’s can get crowded on a weekend afternoon with hungry families who want to dive into the big floppy slices, the cheesy, gooey and all-around indulgent fare...

Plaza Mariachi is a central Mexican restaurant that’s located in a busy shopping and dining section of the small Cape Fear town of Leland. Found just off of US Highway 17, this fast and easy-going restaurant features plenty of Mexican...

Poe’s Tavern is an effortlessly chic spot for Happy Hour drinks, a post-beach meal, or a late night adventure with friends reminiscing about the day over a round of beers or two. Featuring a cool brick and dark wood interior, with subdued...

College students and professors who need a filling pick-up in between classes, or visitors who are taking a tour of the extensive UNCW campus, will want to look for the distinctive Poor Piggy’s food truck. With fresh southern fare that’s...

Pop’s Diner is a nostalgic little eatery that will bring a smile to any Carolina Beach vacationer’s face. Carolina Beach's only late night diner that is open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner and late night!  Featuring a cool...

Beer lovers will be thrilled to discover that there’s a local Wilmington tour designed just for them – the Port City Brew Bus. Open to visitors who are 21 and older, this tour bus heads to three of the area’s top breweries where...

Port Land Grille is becoming one of Wilmington’s favorite destinations for delicious steaks and refined entrees in a warm and elegant atmosphere. Convenient for visitors staying in both Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, and boasting a broad...

PortCity Cheesesteak Company is a cool little sandwich shop that’s located just off of Market Street on the edges of Downtown Wilmington. As the name would suggest, this is place that Philly fans and natives can go to sample a big taste of...

Ports of Call Bistro & Market is a catch-all destination for Southport food lovers of all tastes. Featuring an in-house bakery and market, as well as a dining area that serves up both fresh lunch and dinner selections, this Downtown Southport...

For a cool cocktail to top off a long downtown exploration, or an easy-going and sunny meal to complement the waterfront surroundings, head to Southport’s Provision Company. Located on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway, and recently named...

At this family-owned and operated establishment, we are known for heaping platefuls of freshly prepared pastas with rustic sauces, hand-crafted pizzette, and rotisserie fire-roasted poultry. We delight in serving traditional foods and wines that are...

Rainbow King is a convenient stop for Hampstead locals and visitors who are in the mood for a dine-in or take-out Chinese food meal that’s fast, fresh, and tasty. Located just off of US Highway 17, and close to a major grocery and hardware...

Visitors who are cruising through Hampstead and who want to satisfy a seafood craving, ( a perfectly understandable desire considering that Hampstead is known as North Carolina’s seafood capital), can make a quick stop at the east-to miss but...

Reel Cuisine’s Pacific Grille, which is found just outside the downtown area along 17thStreet, is a truly unique destination for Wilmington visitors and locals who crave fresh flavors, healthy cuisine, and just a little island flair. With a...

Roko Italian Cuisine is a “casual-upscale” Italian eatery just off of Military Cutoff Road that features fresh fare that’s infused with local ingredients. Overseen by Executive Chef Jadran Peros, diners can feast on an array of...

Russell’s Place Restaurant is a classic breakfast and lunch restaurant that brings traditional diner-style and wholly American fare to the heart of the Cape Fear region. With a basic but sprawling menu that focuses on all the breakfast and...

Rx Restaurant and Bar has a goal to feed the soul, with a distinctively fresh menu that uses local ingredients from regional growers, farmers and fishermen. With complementing drinks that are just as unusual as the food, patrons can enjoy a...

For a fresh breakfast or lunch with a clear New York-inspired influence, S&L New York Style Deli literally delivers. Located just outside the downtown area along busy 17thStreet, this little deli is garnering a following among Wilmington’s...

Sam’s Hot Dog Stand isn’t technically a “stand,” but it has all the flavor of a favorite hot dog stand in NYC or big metropolis that’s well outside the port city. Priding itself on great prices and great dogs, visitors...

San Felipe Mexican Restaurant is where Leland locals and visitors go to satisfy a craving for big and budget-friendly platters of Mexican fare. Located just off of US Highway 17, and therefore a convenient spot for vacationers who are cruising to or...

Vegetarians and fresh food lovers will find plenty of reasons to celebrate at the Sealevel City Gourmet – an enticing little café that boasts a wealth of fresh and handmade food and drink. Spearheaded by Chef and owner Nikki Spears, the...

The SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar is a casual little spot that has a definitive coastal vibe and a hearty menu that’s seemingly designed to appeal to salty appetites. Found just a block away from the oceanfront, and bordered by palm trees, this...

Shagger Jacks is an ideal location for a post-beach drink, snack attack, or full meal, with a wonderfully varied and beachy menu that matches the cool, coastal surroundings. With seasonal outdoor and indoor seating that’s designed for...

Shirley’s Diner is a super casual restaurant that’s initially easy to miss, due to a Leland location that’s tucked away behind a busy shopping center, but which remains a popular destination for locals who are in the mood for good...

Boasting an incredible location surrounded by water, and an arsenal of amenities just waiting to be enjoyed by vacationers, the Shoals Club is easily one of the most unique and accommodating community clubs on Bald Head Island. With fun and active...

Seafood lovers who don’t mind getting their hands dirty will want to take a stroll to the Shuckin’ Shack. Located in the heart of Downtown Wilmington along a busy section of Market Street, this casual and cool seafood joint is the...

Silver Dollar is a fine representation of what makes “Pleasure Island” a popular destination for the after-hours crowd. Located along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and sandwiched in between a couple of cool bars, restaurants, and shops...

A lot of newcomers are a little wary when they first arrive at Silver Hill Grill. Located in Supply, NC – which is just inland from Holden Beach – and found within a simple, one-story building that’s bordered by local homes, this...

Six Happiness is an all-encompassing Asian cuisine restaurant that features everything from an on-site sushi bar and lengthy sushi menu, to spicy curry dishes and Bento boxes. With a nice range of items of all sizes, prices, and global flavors...

Wilmington residents and visitors in the Monkey Junction area have a new venue for a Sunday football game or a Happy Hour drink with friends in the form of the Slainte Irish Pub. With a friendly atmosphere, plenty of outdoor and indoor tables and...

For over 30 years, Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, has focused on creating an enjoyable dining experience for our customers.At Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, we strive to be the best host. From the moment you walk through...

Something Fishy Seafood Restaurant is a back-to-basics seafood shack that’s found in central Wilmington along a quieter and less bustling section of College Road. Found within a modest sized but distinctive bright yellow and blue diner-style...

For a no-frills breakfast or afternoon meal that’s loaded with southern flavor and coastal North Carolina staples, head to Sonja’s Grill. Found just off of Highway 17, and convenient to visitors who are exploring all along the Cape Fear...

South Beach Grill is a cool little restaurant that’s close to the water, and which uses this locale as an inspiration for its tasty, seafood-heavy menu. Serving lunch and dinner in the nicely decorated inside dining area, as well the expansive...

Treat yourself to real wood-smoked BBQ and brisket, a mess of classic southern sides, and a friendly family environment with a visit to Southport Smoke House. Located on the outskirts of Howe Street on the edge of the Historic Southport Downtown...

For Wilmington visitors who are exploring the outskirts of the downtown area, or who are just setting off on a trip to the coastline via Carolina Beach Road, Sub Stop is an easy destination to feast on a big lunch, or pick up a host of goodies for...

The Sugar Shack is a cool Oak Island eatery that brings a little tropical spice to a traditionally beachy menu. Specializing in Jerk flavoring and entrees, this restaurant will wow patrons with an abundance of bold flavors that fit in perfectly with...

We surf, we SUP, and we love healthy stuff! Join us at Wrighsville Beach’s hottest spot for cooling off with your favorite organic juice, superfood smoothies, cold press juice cleanses, acai and pitaya bowls, and frozen yogurt. We also offer...

Sushi Gem is a relatively new addition to the Hampstead dining scene, but its eclectic global menu and chic interior with darkened tables and a wraparound bar are already turning heads in the local community. Boasting a fresh menu, regular drink...