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Restaurants & bars

The Port City's best tables — from waterfront seafood to late-night pies.

Amanecer Cocina & Café restaurant in Wilmington NCMexican

Amanecer 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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Benny's Big Time Pizzeria restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza

Benny'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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Bento Box Sushi restaurant in Wilmington NCSushi

Bento 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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Bluewater Waterfront Grill restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

Bluewater 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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Boombalatti's Handcrafted Ice Cream restaurant in Wilmington NCIce Cream

Boombalatti'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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Brasserie Du Soleil restaurant in Wilmington NCFarm-to-Table

Brasserie 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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Brooklyn Cafe restaurant in Wilmington NCCafé
🐾 Pet OK

Brooklyn 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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Brooklyn Pizza Co. restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza

Brooklyn 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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Brunches restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican
🐾 Pet OK

Brunches

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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Cabana Bar & Grill restaurant in Wilmington NCCaribbean

Cabana 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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Calico Coffee Bar restaurant in Wilmington NCCoffee

Calico 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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Cast Iron Kitchen restaurant in Wilmington NCSouthern

Cast 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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Ceviche restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

Ceviche

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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Circa 1922 restaurant in Wilmington NCTapas

Circa 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 restaurant in Wilmington NCVegetarian

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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Concorde Espresso Bar restaurant in Wilmington NCCoffee & Cocktails

Concorde 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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Copper Penny restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican

Copper 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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Cousins Coal Fired Pizzeria restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza

Cousins 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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Cugino Forno restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza

Cugino 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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Dockside Wrightsville Beach restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

Dockside 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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Fish House Grill restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood
🐾 Pet OK

Fish 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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Flying Machine Oyster Bar restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

Flying 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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Fortuna Cucina Italiana restaurant in Wilmington NCItalian

Fortuna 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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G Prime Steak & Cellar restaurant in Wilmington NCSteakhouse

G 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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Genki Japanese & Sushi Restaurant restaurant in Wilmington NCSushi

Genki 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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Grimm Burger restaurant in Wilmington NCBurgers

Grimm 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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Jeff's Bagel Run restaurant in Wilmington NCBagels

Jeff'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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K38 Baja Grill restaurant in Wilmington NCMexican

K38 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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King Neptune Restaurant restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

King 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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Kipos Hellenic Cuisine restaurant in Wilmington NCGreek

Kipos 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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Kornerstone Bistro restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza

Kornerstone Bistro

8262 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28411

Porters Neck brick-oven pizza alongside pasta, seafood, and Mediterranean-leaning plates.

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Mellow Mushroom restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza

Mellow 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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Oceanic at the Crystal Pier restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

Oceanic 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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Olivero restaurant in Wilmington NCMediterranean

Olivero

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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P.T.'s Olde Fashioned Grille restaurant in Wilmington NCBurgers

P.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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Pine Valley Market restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican

Pine 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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Poe's Tavern restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican
🐾 Pet OK

Poe'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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Quanto Basta restaurant in Wilmington NCItalian

Quanto 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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Roko Italian Cuisine restaurant in Wilmington NCItalian

Roko 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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Salita Pizza restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza

Salita 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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Shark Bar & Kitchen restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

Shark 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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Slice of Life Pizzeria & Pub restaurant in Wilmington NCPizza
🐾 Pet OK

Slice 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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South Beach Grill restaurant in Wilmington NCSouthern

South 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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South Front Tavern restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican

South 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 restaurant in Wilmington NCItalian

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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The Basics restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican

The 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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The Bridge Tender restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

The 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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The Half restaurant in Wilmington NCSandwiches

The 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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The Pilot House restaurant in Wilmington NCSeafood

The 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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The Reel Cafe restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican

The 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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The Vine restaurant in Wilmington NCWine Bar

The 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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Tower 7 Baja Mex restaurant in Wilmington NCMexican

Tower 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 restaurant in Wilmington NCAmerican

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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Yosake restaurant in Wilmington NCSushi

Yosake

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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