In the event you’re a foodie looking for the very best eating places in Wilmington, North Carolina, we’ve got acquired simply the seaside city bites for you. Moreover being dwelling to a few of the greatest seashores in North Carolina, the city of Wilmington is a haven for culinary hotspots.
As a coastal oasis, you might anticipate a plethora of recent seafood, and you’ll be proper. Right here you’ll be able to select the catch of the day and know that it’s straight out of the ocean. After all, the Southern classics abound as nicely. It’s the right spot to hunt out that down-home consolation meals you crave.Â
That’s not all of the Wilmington space has on deck. Be shocked by savory fares from all all over the world. Check out scrumptious dishes at eating locations targeted on conventional Asian, Italian, and Mexican cuisines. Chow down at charming native haunts, refill on a fine-dining feast, or tantalize your style buds with recent farm-to-table fares.Â
Come hungry, savor the flavors, and we promise your pallet might be happy. Under are the very best eating places in Wilmington (with just a few in Carolina Seashore and Kure Seashore, too!)
Greatest Eating places in Wilmington
1. Indochine
Maybe the preferred Wilmington eating places for years on finish. Serving genuine Thai and Vietnamese cuisines, don’t miss an opportunity to dine al fresco in one of many oriental-style huts by the koi pond, full with water lilies, at Indochine.
It’s a novel and memorable setting and has develop into fairly the cult favourite amongst locals and guests alike. Critically, ever since we went to school at UNCW 10 years in the past, this place has been popping nearly nightly. They don’t take reservations, and in case you arrive Thursday-Sunday evening, there’s a 99% likelihood you’ll have to attend for a desk, however it’s value it.
The unique flavors of the Far East come alive with unforgettable dishes, reminiscent of the right Pad Thai, coveted Papaya Salad, and the craveable Inexperienced and Jungle Curry. The decor alone steals the present, to create a really transportive expertise.Â
2. Casey’s Buffet and BBQ
Having BBQ is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in North Carolina, and what’s higher than an all-you-can-eat BBQ buffet? An absolute institution, one of the vital iconic eating places in Wilmington is Caseys.
Refill your plate and abdomen with the very best Carolina cooking round, at this family-owned paradise of soul meals and Southern consolation. Go for the classics reminiscent of fried hen, catfish, collard greens, and cornbread—all recent and produced from scratch.Â
For the extra adventurous eaters strive the pig’s toes or chitlins. This Southern soul meals is certain to nourish you in and out. The ambiance is heat and comfortable, paying homage to diner decor or a cheerful homestead. It’s among the finest eating places in Wilmington, and bar none the very best barbecue round.Â
3. RX RestaurantÂ
RX creates seasonally impressed Southern meals and gives an informal however refined setting to take pleasure in recent fares. Working intently with native farmers and fishers, every dish feels inviting and hearty. The menu is all the time evolving primarily based on what components are greatest, even the drinks, making for an thrilling shock every go to.Â
The meals feels acquainted but snug. The decor is minimal and modest, set in an outdated pharmacy constructing close to Downtown Wilmington, creating an upscale temper that matches the meals. The braised pork stomach with smoked cheddar grits is a well-liked decide, nevertheless, don’t low cost the North Carolina duck course.Â
4. Dram Yard
Dram Yard constantly places out that Southern coastal taste we crave, however with a twist. In the event you want to let the specialists take the eating driver’s seat, go for their three-course or four-course menu served on sure days of the week. You’ll be in for a culinary deal with. Every merchandise on the menu feels rigorously curated and handcrafted with considerate preparation of native components.Â
The Gazebo Bar on-site is a dreamy surroundings for sipping a drink in serenity. This courtyard backyard is cozy and refined, and we might anticipate nothing else from Dram in Downtown ILM. There’s a separate vegan menu for these so inclined, together with meat-free gems, like beet tartare.Â
5. Pop’s DinerÂ
Not certainly one of your seemingly greatest eating places in Wilmington, however step inside and also you’ll see why Pops is on this checklist.
In the event you’re strolling alongside the Carolina Seashore boardwalk, a cease into Pop’s Diner is a should. A heavy dose of nostalgia, this 1950’s diner dishes out all of the favorites. We extremely advocate a Cuban sandwich and the funnel cake fries.Â
The classic vibes are certain to deliver a smile to any beachgoer, full with a jukebox, partitions of vinyl, shiny pink cubicles, and an occasional Elvis sighting. These decadent dishes remind us of going to the state truthful and feeling free to bask in all that’s enjoyable. Even when your seaside physique doesn’t thanks, your internal child certain will. Â
6. CatchÂ
Catch is a haven of recent coastal seafood situated proper on Market Avenue. Every part is sourced from natural growers and native fisheries that harvest sustainably from the long-lasting Cape Worry Coast. The crab muffins are award-winning and the Cajun fried North Carolina Oysters are beloved amongst seafood lovers. You may’t get any brisker than Catch.Â
The ambiance is modern, with simply the correct amount of nautical kitsch thrown in. Pair your plate with native beer from the very best breweries in Wilmington, boutique wine, or a craft cocktail. Maintain your eyes peeled for his or her meals truck as you journey across the space. This is without doubt one of the greatest eating places in Wilmington and Carolina Seashore.Â
7. Tarantelli’s
Tarantelli’s plates up the Tuscan treats of your goals. With a family-owned eatery, utilizing household recipes originating straight from Italy, and serving up every fare family-style, nothing feels hotter or cozier than an evening at Tarantelli’s. The Parmigianino is aged for twenty-four months and, we are able to’t stress this sufficient, put it on every thing you eat right here.Â
Certainly one of their handmade pastas could change your life, because the ravioli did ours. In the event you’re a fan of a wood-fired pizza, you’ve come to the very best place for it. The worst half about Tarantelli’s is that the menu is full of so many Italian delights, and you’ll’t order each single merchandise.Â
8. Pinpoint
A staple of the South, Pinpoint sources all of the freshest, native components for a menu that modifications day by day and is constantly infused with artistic inspiration. Their dishes are a various array of farm-to-table fare rooted in American custom. The uncooked oysters on the half shell, the smoked trout-baked oysters, and the charcuterie Rockefeller baked oysters are all phenomenal choices that received’t disappoint.Â
Many plates will look too fairly to eat, however belief us, it’s greatest to dig proper in. It’s a preferred spot for brunch and for craft cocktails as nicely. We often head to among the finest Wilmington espresso retailers (like Bespoke) for espresso earlier than heading right here for brunch. The ambiance is quaint and heat, with a decor of uncovered brick adorned with artwork. On prime of all of it, they’ve a incredible location in Downtown Wilmington.
9. Fork N Cork
Set in historic downtown Wilmington, Fork N Cork is a comfortable scene serving even cozier consolation meals. They began as a meals truck referred to as Paddy Wagon and have become such successful within the metropolis they needed to open a brick-and-mortar retailer. Individuals nonetheless journey far and broad to partake within the poutine or the pot pies.Â
The Brisket Biscuit is a revelation in each chunk. The confit duck wings can have you craving them for years to return. The Wellington Bites are certain to blow your thoughts. Go to the Wilmington or Carolina Seashore areas to search out finger-licking good favorites. Their declare to fame is a Fieri seal of approval, and you will note why with that first forkful.Â
10. Ceviche’s
Ceviche’s is a Latin American lover’s dream. The delicacies is impressed by Panama, and the bar is even constructed of reclaimed wooden from the identical nation. The courtyard is a captivating spot to take pleasure in these excellent choices. Named for its signature course, there may be loads on the menu to find right here. The Panamanian Paella is our most popular decide.Â
The flavors are as vibrant and colourful because the cafe itself, they usually companion with many sustainable efforts in the neighborhood to deliver earth-conscious delicacies to the desk.
Get a style of tropical paradise at Ceviche’s, among the finest eating places in Wilmington, situated proper at Wrightsville Seashore. So make a reservation after a giant seaside day trip!
11. Shuckin Shack
Responsibly sourced and critically enjoyable, this motto from Shuckin Shack isn’t any joke. It’s a shellfish sanctuary like no different. With many areas within the Southeast, the primary was in Carolina Seashore proper close to the Carolina Seashore State Park, and the no-frills seaside setting is idyllic for these beach-themed bites.Â
Whereas the crab balls, calamari, and clams could get all of the well-deserved consideration, we like to go for the nice outdated vogue Lowcountry boil. Order it single, double, or family-sized and partake on this time-honored coastal Carolina custom: a pot of succulent shrimp, sausage, potato, and corn seasoned with Previous Bay, and served proper out on the tablecloth. We’d be remiss to not advocate the lobster roll as nicely.Â
12. Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn
Look no additional than Flaming Amy’s for genuine and out-of-the-park Mexican. The Churkeychanga has made a reputation for itself among the many wild meals world. The godzilladilla is an in depth second in case you ask us. Vegetarian and vegan choices are plentiful, you received’t even miss the meat, a uncommon and welcome shock for this fashion of meal.Â
The ambiance is enjoyable and funky and the menu is intensive, guaranteeing an excellent time for all at Amy’s. It’s a neighborhood legend of the world, so don’t be shocked if there’s a line once you go to. Don’t fret because it does transfer fairly quick. It’s one of the vital inexpensive locations you’ll be able to eat in Wilmington.
13. Platypus & Gnome
Not your common American bistro, Platypus & Gnome proper on Entrance Avenue has extra quirky enjoyable to find than simply its identify. The menu and ambiance are eclectic, making a one-of-a-kind eating expertise.
The dishes rotate seasonally and have unique meats, together with vegetarian and vegan choices. They discover the stability between trendy, Southern consolation, and worldwide meals.Â
The Southern fried recreation hen full of gluten-free bacon mac and cheese and the seared ostrich steak sandwich are some main standouts to call just a few. In the event you’re within the temper to munch up one thing you’ve by no means tried earlier than, Platypus & Gnome ought to be your go-to.Â
14. The Fundamentals
The homey brick bistro Fundamentals boasts the very best brunch on the town. Order the Southern Benedict with a facet of Bloody Mary and also you received’t be sorry. The meatloaf, and shrimp and grits, are particular dishes, served identical to mama used to make them. They cook dinner up all of the traditional comforts and modern creations.Â
It’s nestled proper close to the Riverwalk, excellent for moseying off all these hearty parts with a scenic view. It’s actually serving up extra than simply the fundamentals in case you ask us.Â
15. Savorez
You may’t go incorrect with a Savorez in Downtown Wilmington! They serve up a few of the greatest Latin American meals we’ve had exterior of Latin America! Positioned on the nook of 4th and Chestnut St it is a small eating institution with solely sufficient room for a handful of teams.
The identify says all of it – the identify Savorez comes from the Spanish phrase Sabores, which means flavors. Which is exactly what you discover right here – loads of vibrant flavors all sourced regionally.
They’re serving up easy however delicious fan favorites with a much less is extra perspective. From tapas to empanadas, you’ll love all of the appetizers. For dinner, we tried the Carne Con Ancho and Caliente Tuna and fell in love. We might extremely advocate making a reservation on weekend nights, as talked about the house is small and it will get busy!
16. Caprice Bistro
For once you fancy decadent French fares, Caprice Bistro is without doubt one of the greatest Wilmington eating places. The house is elegant, matching the connoisseur artistry of the meals. The Waterzooi is the home particular, and the Beef Bourguignon is to die for. Excellent for an intimate meal, or a comfortable meet up with family members, Caprice looks like a Parisian dream.Â
Discover the right wine pairing in your favourite French meals from the intensive and expertly curated checklist of classic wines. The chef likes to cook dinner for everybody, making the best French dishes really feel accessible and thrilling. Â
17. Circa 1922
Set in a refurbished financial institution in downtown Wilmington, Circa 1922 offers international plates of delectable selection. They serve up every thing from tapas to sushi to charcuterie, they usually do all of it with a flowery aptitude and incredible flavors.
Combine and match to make your excellent meal, pairing roasted bone marrow with burrata and oyster mushrooms or mussels mariniere with grilled artichokes.Â
Reside piano music provides to their ambiance on the weekends. With uncovered brick, white tablecloths, and delicate lighting, it feels nostalgic and new unexpectedly. They’ve gathered fairly the next within the space, so cease by to see what all of the fuss is about. Â
18. Freddies
Freddies in Kure Seashore is without doubt one of the most traditional spots to eat in the entire space. It’s beloved by locals and is open year-round due to it (typically a rarity on the seaside).
It’s a small intimate restaurant with just some tables, however get a reservation right here, and also you’re in retailer for among the finest pork chops you’ve ever had in your life!
19. The Little Dipper
You’ve seemingly heard of the chain restaurant “The Melting Pot,” however I can guess you haven’t heard of The Little Dipper. This is without doubt one of the greatest Wilmington eating places and the place I all the time ate whereas going to highschool at UNCW. Right here you will get very good fondue in Downtown Wilmington, and visiting on a summer time evening is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Wilmington!
It’s excellent for a date evening, for household celebrations, or with a bunch of mates. Their specialty is cheese and chocolate fondue. Head right here on a Wednesday night for Women Evening – $10 fondues for the desk!
20. Slice of Life
For the best possible pizza in Wilmington, you can’t miss Slice of Life. There are just a few areas to take pleasure in in Wilmington, and belief me, you received’t be disenchanted! They’ve a few of the greatest pizza I’ve had!
Get it by the slice in Downtown Wilmington or have a complete pie with some mates! The ambiance is incredible and the meals is even higher!
21. Seabird
Seabird Restaurant is a celebration of seasonality and among the finest Wilmington eating places within the Downtown Space.
They serve a few of the greatest recent seafood within the metropolis caught day by day and all paired with regionally sourced produce. It’s situated within the coronary heart of downtown in a historic constructing. The ambiance is informal and pleasant, with a captivating nautical theme.
Seabird has an in depth wine checklist, craft beer on faucet, and a full bar, making it the right place to unwind and indulge, particularly on their out of doors patio. Whereas there may be all the time one thing new to strive right here, a few of the favourite fares are the oysters, the Squid Ink Spaghetti, and the NC Amberjack Carpaccio.Â
22. Manna
Manna is a must-try culinary expertise when consuming out in Wilmington. They give attention to American cooking that’s each rugged and stylish, to honor the origins of delicacies within the nation. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, excellent for an informal evening out in town.Â
Remember to strive certainly one of their signature cocktails right here since they’re recognized for his or her artistic and scrumptious drinks menu. A number of the hottest dishes from this straightforward menu embody the Bobby Filet and the I Bought Ewes Babe. The lounge additionally hosts notorious Bourgie Nights, the place native and touring musicians can take the stage. Â
23. Rum Cow
Rum Cow is known for making American eats with a world aptitude. Whereas they’re newer to the foodie scene within the metropolis, they’ve wasted no time gaining a decent status for serving a few of the greatest meals round. The ambiance is vivid, ethereal, and delightfully trendy, excellent for snapping just a few Instaworthy pics.Â
The seafood-based menu boasts a number of stand out plates. This contains shareables just like the Cajun Fried Gator Bites, or mouthwatering mains such because the Island Burger. After all, you’ll be able to’t actually go to Rum Cow with out making an attempt certainly one of their namesake cocktails. They’ve a wide array to select from, so that you’re certain to search out one thing that you just’ll love.Â
24. True Blue Butcher and DeskÂ
True Blue is certainly one of Wilmington’s most beloved eating places, and for good motive. They serve up scrumptious New American delicacies with a recent and seasonal aptitude. The ambiance is effortlessly modern and timeless. The farm to desk fares all the time make it really feel like a full best eating expertise.Â
The drinks are simply as scrumptious because the meals right here, the handcrafted cocktails pair nicely with the plates particularly. They’ve each a eating room and a butcher store, so you’ll be able to even take some high-quality cuts dwelling with you for later.Â
25. Benny’s Huge Time
When working up an urge for food in Wilmington, be sure you take a look at Benny’s Huge Time Pizzeria. This native spot is beloved by all who eat right here for its scrumptious meals and enjoyable ambiance. Benny’s focuses on genuine wooden fired pies, made with a skinny crust and loads of recent cheese to prime it off.Â
The funky and hip surroundings ensures an excellent time too. The menu additionally options quite a lot of different Italian dishes, together with pasta, sandwiches, and salads. Along with nice meals, Benny’s additionally gives dwell leisure some nights of the week.Â
26. Mess Corridor
Mess Corridor is a downtown outpost primarily based within the up-and-coming Cargo District. They’re targeted primarily on the traditional North Carolina delicacies on the dine-in meals corridor, though in addition they have an artisan drive via espresso bar.
Every part right here is hand made and tremendous recent. The sauces are sourced day by day, they grind their very own meat to make the well-known smash burgers, and even the vegan patties are finished in-house.Â
One of many fundamental attracts of this pleasant spot is the linked alcove beer backyard. They’re a more recent eatery within the space, however it’s secure to say that locals have fallen head over heels for this hip neighborhood joint.Â
27. Elijah’sÂ
Elijah’s is situated alongside the scenic banks of the Cape Worry River. This waterfront ambiance is without doubt one of the most gratifying anyplace within the metropolis. They’ve been a staple of the world since 1984. The opposite declare to fame listed here are the delectable recent seafood dishes served with a traditional Southern twist.Â
Although they’re billed as an informal American grill and oyster bar, the plates have a superb eating really feel. Additionally they boast a powerful collection of beers and wines. Some specialty objects embody crabcakes and shrimp and grits.Â
28. The Inexperienced HomeÂ
In the event you’re searching for a scrumptious vegan meal whereas in Wilmington, the Inexperienced Home is unquestionably the go to. They’re recognized for plant-based superb eating and supply quite a lot of vegetable ahead dishes which are certain to tantalize your style buds, whether or not you eat meat free or not.Â
The menu focuses on all issues sustainable and seasonal. There’s each a full bar (full with tasty mocktails) and a thoughtfully curated collection of pure wines. The setting is simply as trendy and stylish as you may think.Â
In the event you’re trying to strive one thing new or simply desire a wholesome meal, you received’t be disenchanted with this contemporary eating vacation spot.
29. Smoke on the WaterÂ
Smoke on the Water is ready within the scenic Marina Village alongside the Riverwalk in Wilmington. The expansive bar is the place to be within the metropolis for grabbing a craft beer or specialty cocktail, particularly because the solar goes down. There’s a big deck with out of doors seating or an indoor possibility with wall sized home windows so you’ll be able to absorb the views regardless.Â
The menu gives a variety of refined favorites together with Seafood Steamer Pots and the Fried Oyster Po Boy. In the event you contemplate your self an adventurous eater who likes seafood, strive certainly one of their extra artistic concoctions just like the Shrimp and Tasso Corndogs.Â
30. Solid Iron KitchenÂ
Solid Iron Kitchen is a Wilmington legend serving easy Southern meals all day lengthy. It’s North Carolina dwelling cooking at its best and there’s really one thing for everybody on this menu, whether or not it’s breakfast or lunch you’re after.
From fried hen to shrimp and grits, you’ll discover the entire traditional consolation meals you’ve been craving. Additionally they use all regionally sourced components, so you realize you’re getting the freshest meals potential.Â
The ambiance is cool and informal, together with superior hospitality. There are a selection of vegan and vegetarian choices obtainable as nicely, so it’s supreme for anybody with dietary restrictions. At all times be sure you strive certainly one of their signature cocktails or native craft beers to clean down your meal right here.