Eat & drink local
Restaurants & bars
The Port City's best tables — from waterfront seafood to late-night pies.
MexicanAmanecer Cocina & Café
2 Locations
Family-run breakfast, brunch, and lunch spot blending American and Mexican dishes — huevos rancheros, birria tacos, and Red Velvet Pancakes alongside classic omelets, burritos, and sandwiches. Over 34 years of family culinary experience, two Wilmington locations, both open daily through early afternoon.
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PizzaBenny's Big Time Pizzeria
206 Greenfield St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Neapolitan, New York, or Grandma-style — pick your pizza, then save room for the house-made pasta.
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SushiBento Box Sushi
1121-L Military Cutoff Road Wilmington, NC 28405
The Bento Box is the culmination of Asian street food. The sushi and Asian cuisine menu offers food from Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, China, and Korea. The focal point of The Bento Box is the sushi bar where guests can interact with Chef Lee Grossman and his team of chefs to create a unique dining experience or you may enjoy the private dining room for an intimate small group, the outdoor patio with its zen rock garden and water fountains , the sake lounge, or just a quiet corner of the dining room
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SeafoodBluewater Waterfront Grill
4 Marina Street Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
From Sea to Plate because we believe when you dine along the Intracoastal Waterway, you deserve the freshest catch of the day. Moving seasonally, our menu is rooted in fresh, local favorites provided by North Carolina's bountiful fishing season, whenever possible.
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Ice CreamBoombalatti's Handcrafted Ice Cream
4 Locations
Handcrafted ice cream made with local NC grass-fed dairy, no artificial flavors or colors. Real extra-ripe bananas in the Banana Pudding, real mint (not dyed green) in the Mint Chocolate Chip — just ice cream that puts a smile in your mouth.
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Farm-to-TableBrasserie Du Soleil
1908 Eastwood Road, Suite 118, Wilmington, NC 28403
Brasserie du Soleil, located in Lumina Station on Eastwood Road, is the place to go for authentic French cuisine in Wilmington, NC. Open for lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. The Brasserie features an extensive French fare including tuna tartare, escargot, plateaus de fromages, steak pomme frites, as well as a full raw bar and entrees.
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CaféBrooklyn Cafe
706 N 4th St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Family-owned café known for homemade beignets, cake donuts, and kolaches, along with fresh coffee, espresso drinks, mimosas, and baked goods. Open 7 days a week with a pet-friendly courtyard.
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PizzaBrooklyn Pizza Co.
2 Locations
Thin-crust New York pies and Sicilian squares, plus calzones and strombolis, made with homemade dough and sauce — two Wilmington locations to grab a slice.
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AmericanBrunches
3 Locations
The Brunches Experience We are not just taking your order and rushing you out the door. At Brunches, our wait & bar staff explore your food preferences, give drink recommendations and engage in conversation to get to know you. Our staff treat you like family but have all the fun things that take your worries away.
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CaribbeanCabana Bar & Grill
1610 Pavilion Pl, Wilmington, NC 28403
A bar and grill built on island-style food, drinks, and décor — relaxed, coastal, and full of flavor. Brunch on weekends, lunch from 11am, dinner from 4pm daily. Now hosting live music on weekend nights.
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CoffeeCalico Coffee Bar
1319 Military Cutoff Rd
Specialty roasted coffee, house-made syrups, and local flavors — served with care in the heart of Wilmington.
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SouthernCast Iron Kitchen
8024 Market St, 6 & 7, Wilmington, NC 28411
Chef/Owner, Josh Petty, was born in Burlington, NC and was brought up in a family that loved to cook. He developed an appreciation of cooking from his mother and grandmothers. Many of the dishes that appear on Chef Petty's menu come from old family recipes that he has re-created with his own twist. He is devoted to executing dishes using fresh local and North Carolina based products and services. Josh and his wife, Drea, strive to make Cast Iron Kitchen a community and family oriented restaurant that embodies "Southern hospitality" at its finest.
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SeafoodCeviche
7210 Wrightsville Ave. Wilmington, NC 28403
Nestled just before the Wrightsville Beach drawbridge, Ceviche’s has been a local favorite and a traveler’s hidden gem since 2014. Founded on the spirit of good food and good company,
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TapasCirca 1922
8 N Front Street, Wilmington, NC 28403
Since opening in 2000, Circa 1922 has been a destination in Downtown Wilmington for everyday dining and special occassions alike. We proudly serve Seasonal American Fare, featuring classic dishes elevated with unique flavors, modern cooking techniques, and only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients.
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Coco Pipa
506 Castle Street Wilmington, NC
Coco Pipa is a vibrant health oasis on Castle Street in Wilmington, NC, dedicated to making nutritious, affordable food accessible to our community, especially in a predominantly Black neighborhood where fresh, healthy options are scarce. With nothing on our menu over $10, our mission is clear: everyone deserves access to nourishing food, regardless of background or budget.
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Coffee & CocktailsConcorde Espresso Bar
2 Locations
Specialty espresso by morning, craft cocktails by night. Espresso flights, fireside tables, and a room that knows how to keep a secret. Walk in any time by day — reservations recommended after 4 PM. Fri–Sat after 4 PM is 21+ only.
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AmericanCopper Penny
109 Chestnut St Wilmington, NC 28402
Located in historical downtown Wilmington, the Copper Penny offers an eclectic mix of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches along with an extensive selection of mixed drinks and beers. Serving up some of the best affordable food and drinks in Wilmington, the Copper Penny’s relaxed atmosphere is the perfect place for lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends.
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PizzaCousins Coal Fired Pizzeria
914 S Kerr Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403
Coal Fired. Family Inspired. At Cousins, we believe great pizza starts with great roots. That's why we stick to time-honored traditions, high-heat coal ovens, and recipes passed down through generations. It's not just pizza — it's a family legacy served hot and fresh, every time.
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PizzaCugino Forno
1020 Princess St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Neapolitan pizza in the Soda Pop District, San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella on the classics.
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SeafoodDockside Wrightsville Beach
1308 Airlie Road Wilmington, NC 28403
A Carolina tradition for over 30 years. Since first opening its doors, Dockside has been synonymous with great food and a casual, relaxed, even rustic atmosphere. Perched on the water’s edge of Wrightsville Beach, our flagship location draws on the local region’s natural features- from the island setting to the beach style and coastal Carolina attitude-and blends with them with Dockside’s own unique, friendly and inviting atmosphere.
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SeafoodFish House Grill
1410 Airlie Road, Wilmington
Located along Airlie Road in Wilmington, NC just at the foot of the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge, The Fish House Grill has been a landmark seafood restaurant for decades. The Fish House Grill sits on one of the most coveted properties in Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach. Our waterfront location along Airlie Road at the foot of the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge provides an idyllic environment for our guests to enjoy delicious, fresh, and affordable seafood at our outdoor deck.
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SeafoodFlying Machine Oyster Bar
530 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Modern cuisine with a sea breeze — perfectly prepared catches great for first dates or family dinners, from snapper and blue crab pasta to seared Sichuan tuna, and of course oysters raw, baked, or fried, alongside signature cocktails and fresh local craft beer. Bar and outdoor seating are first come, first served.
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ItalianFortuna Cucina Italiana
414 Arboretum Dr Suite 130, Wilmington, NC 28405
A contemporary Italian restaurant rooted in seasonality, craftsmanship, and respect for ingredients. Guided by an organic-driven approach, the menu emphasizes traditional technique and careful preparation, letting each dish's natural character take center stage — an everyday dining destination equally suited for a casual meal or an intimate gathering.
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SteakhouseG Prime Steak & Cellar
1981 Eastwood Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Upscale restaurant known for its steaks, plus seafood dishes and cocktails. A luxury steakhouse experience featuring customizable prime cuts, locally sourced seafood, seasonal produce, craft cocktails, and one of the area's largest wine cellars.
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SushiGenki Japanese & Sushi Restaurant
4724 New Centre Dr #5, Wilmington, NC 28405
An inviting and unique dining experience in the heart of Wilmington. We serve the freshest, most authentic sushi and traditional Japanese favorites.
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BurgersGrimm Burger
1113 Military Cutoff Rd Suite F, Wilmington, NC, United States, 28405
We grind our own certified angus beef in house daily. Double patty burgers served on a freshly toasted martins potato roll with american cheese.
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BagelsJeff's Bagel Run
3544 Oleander Dr Wilmington, NC 28403
Welcome to Jeff’s Bagel Run! We are your go-to spot for freshly baked bagels, fresh made spreads, and aromatic coffee or cold brew in Wilmington, NC. We promise a delightful array of flavors to tantalize your taste buds and energize your day.
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MexicanK38 Baja Grill
5410 Oleander Drive, Wilmington, NC 28403
OUR STORY It all started at a famous surf break off the free road just north of Ensenada, Mexico. Just a group of friends, a small shanty on the cliffs and the best fish tacos we ever had. Inspired by west coast surf trips, crafted with all the east coast has to offer, K*38 embodies the laid-back spirit of our surfer-founder. Fast forward 30 years and we are still slinging the freshest fish tacos and best margaritas in town.
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SeafoodKing Neptune Restaurant
11 N Lumina Ave Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Oldest Restaurant In New Hanover County King Neptune was first opened in 1947 and has recently been taken over by Jimmy and Keaton Gilleece. It has been completely renovated and revamped with concept and staff. Join us for a truly unforgettable experience on Wrightsville Beach. Our menu features a wide variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, chicken, and beef. We also have a great selection of cocktails, wines and beers to pair with your meal.
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GreekKipos Hellenic Cuisine
1900 Eastwood Road Suite #2, Wilmington, NC 28403
Kipos Hellenic Cuisine is an extension of Giorgios Bakatsias' wildly popular Kipos brand, celebrating the food and culture of his homeland with an intentional focus on the sea — an elevated counterpoint to his more rustic Kipos Greek Taverna in Chapel Hill. Hours: Closed Monday; Sun, Tue-Thu 5pm-9pm; Fri-Sat 5pm-10pm.
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PizzaKornerstone Bistro
8262 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28411
Porters Neck brick-oven pizza alongside pasta, seafood, and Mediterranean-leaning plates.
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PizzaMellow Mushroom
3 Locations
Since 1974, Mellow Mushroom has been Wilmington's deliciously unique neighborhood pizza place — hand-crafted stone-baked pizzas, unique local beers, and 70s-inspired trippy vibes born from three college friends' shared passion for the art of pizza baking, originally on Spring Street near Georgia Tech in Atlanta. All five senses, one relaxed joint to unwind in. Happy hour food, great cocktails, and outdoor seating at Wilmington-area locations; none accept reservations.
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SeafoodOceanic at the Crystal Pier
703 S Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Perched right on Wrightsville Beach's Crystal Pier since 1990, Oceanic serves seafood pulled straight from the Atlantic waters it looks out over — tuna, shrimp, little neck clams, oysters, flounder, and mahi-mahi are just a sampling of what the kitchen works with. The dining room and covered pier deck both look straight out over the ocean, with lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch, and live music on the pier through the summer.
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MediterraneanOlivero
522 S 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Founder Sunny Gerhart and co-executive chef Lauren Krall Ivey bring bold Mediterranean flavors from Sevilla, Sicily, Tangier and beyond to downtown Wilmington — an experience inspired by family, rooted in flavor, crafted locally. Open Monday-Saturday from 5pm.
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BurgersP.T.'s Olde Fashioned Grille
1437 Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Since we opened our first PT’S Olde Fashioned Grille in 1990, we’ve continued to strive to provide our customers with a high-quality dining experience. We do so by serving a simple menu of freshly prepared burgers, sandwiches, fresh-cut french fries and fresh-squeezed lemonade in a clean, family-oriented environment.
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AmericanPine Valley Market
1611 Pavilion Pl, Wilmington, NC 28403
Pine Valley Market’s Wrightsville Beach location invites you to experience coastal dining at its finest. Just moments from the shore, we serve up fresh, locally sourced ingredients crafted into exceptional breakfast, brunch, and lunch favorites. Whether you’re starting your morning with a hearty bite, meeting friends for a relaxed brunch, or enjoying a laid-back lunch by the coast, every dish is thoughtfully prepared and full of flavor—bringing the best of our community straight to your tables.
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AmericanPoe's Tavern
212 Causeway Drive Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Named for author Edgar Allan Poe, Poe’s Tavern is a local favorite just east of the Intracoastal Waterway on Harbor Island. We’re known for an extensive craft brew selection and creative, gourmet burgers—ranging from crab cake toppings to savory pimento cheese. Whether you dine inside or on our dog-friendly patio, you’ll find a fun atmosphere and a menu full of surprises. Don't miss our daily rotating burger special and our curated list of North Carolina craft beers!
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ItalianQuanto Basta
107 N 2nd St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Our award-winning original location in Winston-Salem, NC has been a favorite destination for authentic Italian dishes for over 10 years. Now, we're thrilled to bring the popular family recipes of Quanto Basta's Founding Chef Timothy Grandinetti to the NC Coast, where QB Wilmington's Executive Chef, Joseph Heskin, will create nightly specials that feature the fresh bounty of the NC Coast
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ItalianRoko Italian Cuisine
6801-105 Parker Farm Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405
At Roko Italian Cuisine Chef Jadran Peros personally prepares unique Italian fare infused with fresh local ingredients. The dinner menu offers an array of seafood, steak, pasta and salads. Come try our "casual-upscale" Italian eatery in Wilmington today!
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PizzaSalita Pizza
615 S. 16th St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Naturally leavened, wood-fired pies from a Cargo District takeout window — organic ingredients, plus soft serve for after.
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SeafoodShark Bar & Kitchen
13 E Salisbury St, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Steps from the beach near the iconic Johnny Mercer Pier, Shark Bar & Kitchen serves fresh-to-table cuisine and seafood with some bite — a casual yet sophisticated spot highlighting local and regional seafood and produce. Upstairs, Red Cat Sushi serves modern sushi classics with a Carolina twist and in-house creations from Chefs Louie and James, open from 3pm daily with half off sushi during happy hour. Dine-in and to-go from 10:30am until close, with happy hour daily 3–5pm.
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PizzaSlice of Life Pizzeria & Pub
4 Locations
Since 1997, Slice of Life has served up the freshest, hottest, greatest tasting pizza in Wilmington, North Carolina. Our pizza is cooked with fresh ingredients on a flavorful crispy crust that our customers have come to know and crave. In the mood for something else? Try some of our other menu items–nachos, homemade soup, quesadillas, and fresh salads. Slice offers a welcoming, casual and fun environment with delicious food, making it a favorite hangout for locals and visitors alike. With four locations in Wilmington, customers can grab carryout or choose to dine in Slice also has TV screens throughout and shows most major sports — a great spot to catch a game over pizza and beer.
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SouthernSouth Beach Grill
100 South Lumina Avenue, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Southern inspired, locally sourced since 1997. Overlooking the scenic anchorage on Banks Channel in Wrightsville Beach, South Beach Grill serves consistent, creative southern-inspired cuisine sourced by land and sea in a friendly, casual atmosphere — a great burger on the patio for lunch, or eclectic Chef-driven regional cuisine at dinner, with an unbeatable sunset view of the channel.
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AmericanSouth Front Tavern
1540 S. 2nd Street, #110, Wilmington, NC 28401
A regional American eatery in the South Front District, serving dishes ranging from Maryland to Texas to New Orleans. Hours: Mon-Thu dinner 4-9pm; Fri-Sat lunch noon-4pm, dinner 4-10pm; Sun brunch 10am-3pm, dinner 3-8:30pm.
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Terrazzo Trattoria
1319 Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington, NC 28405
Authentic Italian. Local Family Roots. At Terrazzo Trattoria, we believe in the power of great food and even better company. As a locally owned family business, we’ve been sharing our love for Italian cooking with Wilmington for 26 years. Every dish is prepared with fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and a passion for creating memorable dining experiences.
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AmericanThe Basics
109 Grace St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Creative spins on traditional Southern cuisine served in a homey, brick-walled bistro setting.
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SeafoodThe Bridge Tender
1414 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
The Bridge Tender restaurant is a favorite Wilmington, NC, waterfront seafood and steakhouse. Located at the foot of the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge, the Bridge Tender is a popular destination with locals and visitors. Serving dinner: Tuesday - Sunday 4:00 pm - 9:00 pm.
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SandwichesThe Half
2 Locations
At The Half, we offer great food in a comfortable place to hide from the grind. Started with one goal — serve quality food at a fair price — the menu has grown to rotating beer taps, seasonal specials, and a whole lot of sandwiches. Good food and good people, no judgment on how you handle your pickle-sogged chips.
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SeafoodThe Pilot House
2 Ann St, Wilmington, NC 28401
THE BEST VIEW IN TOWN Life on the river should be appreciated slowly. At The Pilot House, you’ll find the best view in town and a front-row seat to Wilmington's Riverwalk. Steeped in history, our building once belonged to William Craig, a cooper whose handmade barrels likely played a role in shaping our port city's vibrant past. That legacy still lingers in every beam and board. Today, The Pilot House is a gathering place for coastal Carolina flavors and stories shared over cherished recipes. Settle in, take a deep breath, and let life roll by like the river just outside our windows.
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AmericanThe Reel Cafe
100 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Since 1998, The Reel Cafe has been a staple of Wilmington's restaurant and nightlife scene in historic downtown — fresh seafood, hearty burgers, crisp salads, and daily chef specials across three floors and four bars. Enjoy weekly live music in the courtyard or head up to the rooftop bar for skyline views, cold drinks, and a summer concert series. Open Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays), with hours running as late as 2am on weekends.
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Wine BarThe Vine
25 N 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401
A cozy fixture in Downtown Wilmington since 2019. Current owners Carrie and Jason Niloff (since 2023) carry forward the intimate, intentional setting built by founders Randy and Deedee Hall — a tasteful wine selection alongside seasonal chef-driven menus. Join the email list for Tuesday night food and wine tastings.
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MexicanTower 7 Baja Mex
4 N Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480
Live. Eat. Surf It all started at a famous surf break off the free road just north of Ensenada, Mexico. Just a group of friends, a small shanty on the cliffs and the best fish tacos we ever had. Inspired by west coast surf trips, crafted with all the east coast has to offer, Tower 7 embodies the laid back spirit of our surfer-founder. Fast forward 30 years and we’re still slinging the freshest fish tacos and best margaritas in town.
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True Blue Butcher and Table
1114 Military Cutoff Rd, Wilmington, NC 28405
Chef Bobby Zimmerman & his team welcome you to: True Blue Butcher & Table. The flagship restaurant of the We Are True Blue brands, is located in The Forum in Wilmington, NC. Reflecting global cuisine with a modern American interpretation, Chef Bobby Zimmerman has crafted a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, quality cuts of steak, an extensive and delicious drink selection, and an impressive butcher counter. We are open seven days a week for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.
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SushiYosake
33 S Front Street
Found on the second floor of the historic Roudabush building in downtown Wilmington, NC, YoSake features the best sushi along with a full pan-Asian menu served amid modern Tokyo vogue décor. The bar boasts an eclectic collection of wine, sake, beer, and specialty cocktails. YoSake is proud to support local Wilmington organic sustainable agriculture and feature local farms in our specials throughout the menu.
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