2025 American Guide

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Crave is a BBQ and Hot Dog Restaurant that offers smoked brisket, pulled chicken and pulled pork, along with 100% all beef Hot Dogs, Brats, and hot/mild sausages, grilled to...

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...

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...

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...

There’s nothing like enjoying a stunning waterfront view, and Elijah’s has a prime location along the Cape Fear River on the edge of Wilmington’s historic downtown. Featuring both indoor and...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Blue Water Point Motel & Marina is an all-encompassing destination for mariners who are cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway to dock...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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.”...

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...

“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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...