2021 American Guide

1900 Restaurant & Lounge is a chic little dinner and late-night destination that has an eclectic Downtown Wilmington vibe, but which is found a little off the beaten path in a commercial shopping center along...

22 North is a highly acclaimed Wrightsville Beach restaurant that serves up classic southern fare with a Creole and French flair. Located on Lumina Avenue, just a block or so away from the Causeway to the beach, this...

The best cure for a Pleasure Island hangover or a post-beach ravenous appetite is southern home cooking, and A & G Barbecue & Chicken delivers with classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner comfort food with a clear...

Baked With Love is a charming little café on the edge of Downtown Southport where visitors can pick up bakery-fresh goodies, breakfast fare, and lunches with ease. Known for its delectable made-to-order...

The Banks Channel Pub & Grille is a casual stop on the eastern edge of the Wrightsville Beach Causeway that’s perfect for visitors who want to settle in, watch a game, and / or feast on a host of pub-style...

Beana’s Kitchen is a traditional little diner that has all the classic southern fare that hungry patrons crave. Open for breakfast and lunch, and offering a lengthy four-page menu, this restaurant that’s...

Big Daddy’s Restaurant is a classic Kure Beach establishment that has been feeding hungry vacationers since 1970. A popular destination due to its long legacy as a central seafood-focused restaurant, Big...

Blue Surf Café serves up inspired breakfast, lunch and dinner fare to hungry UNCW college students, Wilmington locals, and savvy vacationers-in-the-know alike. Featuring a wonderfully extensive menu, with a host...

Vacationers who are looking for a fast and classic bite before reaching the beach can make a stop at Bob’s Dogs – a fun and funky hot dog restaurant (and more) that’s found just a few blocks away from...

Buzz’s Roost is a fun little spot in the heart of Downtown Wilmington that is known for its solid sandwiches, seafood, and plenty of good times. With a nice long interior bar that boasts a full row or TVs, and a...

Seafood Catering | Traditional Low-Country Boils | Clam Bakes | Alternative Dining - Shrimp • Clams • Cornbread • Sausage - Crab Legs • Coleslaw • Potatoes • Lobster Tail

Narrated sightseeing tours, dinner cruises & private charters on the Cape Fear River. Featuring the Captain J.N. Maffitt, The John Knox, and Jacob's Run Cape Fear Riverboats is Wilmington NC’s longest...

Though almost hidden behind a busy section of College Road, Cape Fear Seafood Company nevertheless has a big reputation as one of the best places to go in Wilmington for outstanding coastal fare. Named by North...

For breakfast, lunch and dinner, Carolina Girls’ Grillin’ Café is always cooking up something good. Located just north of Wilmington, on the outskirts of Castle Hayne, this eatery has a ton of big...

Where do you go in Wilmington for authentic southern soul food that includes everything from all-you-can-eat BBQ and fried chicken to Chitlins’? You head to Casey’s Buffet and BBQ. With never-ending helpings...

Catch has been making waves on the Wilmington dining scene since first opening in 2006, thanks to its award-winning and famous chef and owner, Keith Rhodes. Rhodes was a contestant on the national television show Top...

Causeway Gourmet is a delectable dine-in, take-out, and delivery spot where Ocean Isle Beach vacationers can feast on a wealth of freshly made sandwiches, entrees, salads, and so much more. Located on the inland side of...

Chasers Bar & Grill is a fun hang out for Oak Island locals and visitors alike, thanks to a friendly and nicely casual environment, plenty of game-worthy TVs, and a host of traditional bar food that goes well with a...

Ask a Wilmington local where to go for a casual lunch in Downtown Wilmington, and chances are they will list Chop’s Deli as one of their favorite options. Known for exceptional deli sandwiches, salads and soups...

Indecisive diners will have a fine time at Circa 1922. This chic tapas bar and restaurant has a prime Downtown Wilmington location, and a wonderfully varied menu that allows patrons to sample veritably every elevated...

The Copper Penny is a favorite go-to for Downtown Wilmington pub fans and beer lovers, thanks to a great combination of an extensive beer menu, tasty and filling cuisine, and an undeniably cool atmosphere.

Nothing is more relaxing and liberating than a big belly laugh, and Wilmington’s own Dead Crow Comedy Room is a perfectly convenient destination for Cape Fear visitors to sit back, enjoy a drink, and let loose...

The Deck House is a unique destination for a coastal meal, due to its eye-catching location in a former Carolina Beach Presbyterian Church and that was built in 1946. With a completely renovated interior that features...

Dig & Dive is a neighborhood sports bar and restaurant in central Wilmington that is gaining a following that’s well outside the collection of apartment complexes and residential communities which border the...

Wilmington visitors who want the appeal of an oceanfront beach restaurant without taking a spin across the Wrightsville Beach Bridge can pop into the Dockside Restaurant. Located on the waterfront border, with a cool...

East Oceanfront Dining is a posh little restaurant that’s found along a quieter section of the Wrightsville Beach shoreline, and which features beautifully colorful plates of traditional seafood and American...

Empire Deli & Bagel is a laid-back little breakfast and lunch joint that will satisfy any native New Yorker or New Englander who happens to be in the Cape Fear region. Located just north of Wilmington in the Ogden...

With a name like Epic Food Co, you’d expect the food to be something special, and this casual restaurant off of Military Cutoff Road does not disappoint. Featuring a breakfast, main, and dinner menu, as well as a...

Eric’s Grille is a casual spot that’s found along a busy and more commercial section of central Southport, and which is known for classic American fare, home cooking, and a wonderfully friendly atmosphere...

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...

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...

Fibber McGees Irish Restaurant & Pub is a sweet little pub and restaurant that’s found on a picturesque business-lined street on the outskirts of Landfall, and which is close to a handful of golf courses...

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...

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.

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

“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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

The Kure Beach Diner is the perfect spot for anglers who need a break from casting off the Kure Beach Fishing pier, or for beach-goers who just need a little break out of the sun. Located just feet away from the...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

The NeMa Eatery and Lounge is one of the newest hot spots to hit the Downtown Wilmington scene, and its ultra-modern menu is already turning heads among Cape Fear visitors and local alike. Featuring progressive spins on...

Despite the name, the Niche Kitchen & Bar actually caters to veritably all tastes with a unique menu that combines classic tapas, sandwiches and entrees with inspired and coastal flavors. With a relaxed setting and...

Oak Island Restaurant is a solid destination for Cape Fear visitors to enjoy a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner in a casual and family-friendly environment. Located along Oak Island Drive and easy to reach for...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Wilmington visitors who are in the mood for a big, juicy steak or a signature burger can head on down to the Port City Chop House. Elegant and a fine date night destination for carnivores, this steak house is sure to...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Sea Captains Calabash Seafood is a fairly traditional seafood restaurant that features a host of seafood selections in addition to southern-influenced fare. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, this casual eatery will...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

There’s always something sumptuous to discover at Sweet N Savory Café – an artful little eatery that’s found on the edge of Wilmington’s Landfall Park, and the River to the Sea Bikeway...

The name of “The Basics” is also an illusion to this casual eatery’s philosophy, which is to serve up all the stales of southern comfort food, keep it simple, and let the inherently rich and wonderful...

The Dive is an ultra-casual little spot that’s a fun destination for the after-hours beach crowd. Located just off of US 421, and bordered by a collection of beach bars, motels and restaurants, this little...

Wine lovers will adore The Fortunate Glass - a wine and tapas bar that has a 21 page menu, with 20 pages dedicated to wine (and beer) alone. Located in a central section of Downtown Wilmington, this little eatery is the...

The Grille At Bald Head Island Club is a posh option for Bald Head Island visitors to feast on a seasonal selection of southern-inspired cuisine. Located on the southwestern edge of the island, and on-site for the...

The King’s Table is a central destination for golfing visitors and residents of the Castle Bay Country Club who crave a fresh sandwich, salad, or other bite to eat that pairs nicely with a full day on the golf...

Spend a romantic evening out in the heart of Downtown Wilmington with a visit to The Little Dipper. This charming fondue restaurant features heaping plates of veggies, breads, meats, and desserts that can be dipped into...

The Pharmacy Restaurant is a New American restaurant that has a lot of historic southern style, and a cool location in the heart of the downtown area. Found along Moore Street and bordered by small patio tables that are...

The Purple Onion Café opened on Main Street in Shallotte in 2004. Since then they have become a community favorite serving locals & visitors breakfast and lunch with a delicious menu of pastries, traditional...

The View At Brick Landing Plantation is the only on-island restaurant that’s situated on one of the Oak Island area’s picturesque golf courses. Overlooking the course as well as the not-so-distant...

Tommy Thompson’s Grille is an on-site restaurant that’s found within the private golfing community, The Clubs at St. James. Featuring a la carte and more casual dining, as well as a daily soup, salad bar...

With solid prices, great grub, and a convenient location for Porters Neck locals and visitors, Two Guys Grille allows casual food fans to chow down on a hearty and slightly elevated menu without breaking the bank.

White Front is a no-frills breakfast joint that’s found within a weather-worn, one-story building on the outskirts of the downtown area, and despite its humble exterior, is a popular local go-to for good breakfast...

Don’t let the busy location along College Road, or the simple black and white sign, fool you - Wilmington Taco Factory & American Grill is the UNCW student-approved location for fast, yummy fare on a budget.

Visitors who crave a really good burger and a beer in a super casual environment should make a beeline to Winnies Tavern. Located in a relatively quiet section of Wilmington, with a slightly rustic exterior, Winnies is...

For a classic coastal bite to eat that’s almost eclipsed by the brilliant view, head to Yacht Basin Eatery. This waterfront restaurant with seasonal outdoor seating and a location on the very edge of downtown...