2025 Seafood Guide

The small and slightly inland community of Hampstead is regionally known as the “Seafood Capital of North Carolina” and this reputation is alive and well thanks to popular local seafood markets, like Atlantic Seafood. Located just a...

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 Daddy’s serves up big platters of...

The Black Sea Grill puts a wonderfully unique spin on classic Cape Fear area seafood and southern dishes, with Mediterranean fare that allows the local ingredients to shine. From unique takes on “surf and turf,” (with lamb instead of...

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 of global influences, patrons...

Enjoy a seafood meal with a prime view of the local marinas that border the Intracoastal Waterway with a visit to Bluewater Grill. Located on the edge of the Wrightsville Beach Causeway, this seafood restaurant is a popular lunch and dinner...

The Boathouse restaurant is a moderately-sized and unimposing restaurant that’s located in a quiet section of Wilmington, close to Bradley Creek. But although it’s easy to miss, seafood fans will want to take a detour to find this subtle...

Brasserie du Soleil takes fine dining to an elevated level with lunch and dinner menus that are infused with traditional French dishes and flavors. Found near a small collection of shops just off of Westwood Road, this intimately sweet restaurant...

For a full range of seafood and steak selections that is complemented with waterfront views, head to the edge of the Wrightsville Beach Causeway to the distinctive Bridge Tender Restaurant. Found within a unique weather-worn building, this lunch and...

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

The Cape Fear Restaurant and Lounge is a vintage and family-friendly seafood restaurant that’s perched on the edge of the Cape Fear River in the heart of Downtown Southport. An easy destination for visitors who want a bite to eat after taking...

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 Carolina’s Our State magazine as...

Caprice Bistro is Wilmington’s go-to for incredible martinis and French cuisine in the heart of the Downtown area. Found within a classic brick building, and boasting two levels of dining, (including an upstairs bar that’s popular with...

Captain Pete’s Seafood Restaurant is an acclaimed destination for Holden Beach vacationers to enjoy a big seafood-centric dinner, a round of refreshing cocktails, and an outstanding waterfront view, thanks to the restaurant’s location...

Take a break from the daily grind and dive into a game of volleyball, a trivia night, or just a few rounds and a hearty meal with friends and family with a visit to Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill & Sports Bar. This unique destination...

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 Chef and has since returned to...

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 the causeway to the beach...

Wilmington Visitors who think they’ve seen it all should plan a visit to the refreshingly cool Ceviche’s. Inspired by the cuisine of Panama, Central America, this unique eatery features a colorful menu that’s stuffed with tapas...

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 cuisine under the Cape Fear sun.

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 exterior that boasts an...

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 cuisine with a twist. With a menu...

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 seasonal outdoor tables, this little...

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 extensive and seafood-heavy...

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.

The Fishy Fishy Café is a favorite dining and drinks destination for Southport visitors, due to a prime location on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway where the views are out of this world. Located next to a collection of local marinas...

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 view. With both traditional and...

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 sweet potato biscuits, fried...

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 downtown area, this brunch, lunch...

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. Featuring a statuesque bar and...

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 family-friendly restaurant has just...

For many Oak Island vacationers, the biggest draw of a coastal vacation is the option to pick up a wealth of local Cape Fear seafood to enjoy at home on the grill, in the oven, or on the stove top, and the home grown Haag & Sons Seafood delivers...

As the name would suggest, Hang Ten Grill is a casual beach joint with a definitive surfer vibe that serves as the perfect hang-out after a long morning or afternoon of riding the waves in Carolina Beach. Located along Carolina Beach’s...

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 upscale atmosphere...

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 and tables, and a commercially...

This brightly colored and expansive restaurant along Market Street is an eye-catching destination for seafood fans. Featuring a far-reaching menu of steamed, broiled, grilled and fried seafaring creations, Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster...

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 beach bar and restaurant in...

Inlet View is a fine spot for Southport visitors to slip into an island lifestyle, thanks to a sea-worthy menu, and a location that’s on a quiet edge of the Intracoastal Waterway. Easy to access by visitors who are travelling by boat or by car...

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 that’s home to small...

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 Fishing Pier, and popular with...

Jax Fifth Avenue Deli & Ale House may look like a Swiss retreat, but the downhome cuisine and friendly atmosphere is the hallmark of a southern destination. Featuring an expansive interior with plenty of bar seating and TVs to watch the big...

Jebby’s on 17 is an American grill and sports bar that’s impossible to miss, thanks to a convenient locale along Highway 17 in Hampstead, and a vibrant blue exterior that’s perfect for its close-to-the-coast locale. A fun...

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 plan can still taste the cuisine...

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 sourced from local and regional...

Jones’ Seafood House is a local restaurant in the heart of Oak Island that has been serving vacationers for more than 50 years. A popular spot for generations of families who return year after year, the restaurant has heaping plates of seafood...

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 as a solid breakfast and lunch...

Kornerstone Bistro is a fun and slightly elevated little restaurant along Market Street that specializes in Italian, Mediterranean, and Latin cuisine. Boasting heaping plates of fresh pasta, and eye-catching appetizers that pair perfect with a...

Lane’s Ferry Dock & Grill is a lunch and dinner joint that’s found within a small residential-looking structure near the Cape Fear River. Though the region is little-known and seldom visited, the restaurant, and the surrounding area...

Las Olas Mexi-Q Grill is a relatively new but popular restaurant that is a sister restaurant to Wilmington’s acclaimed surfer hang-out, K-38. Found in the heart of the Mayfaire area along Military Cutoff Road, this Fresh Mex establishment is...

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 eats, and plenty of ways to...

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 with beautiful bold...

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. Located just across the bridge...

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 fresh eatery has been wowing...

Mike’s Fresh Seafood is located along a busy section of Market Street, but is often overlooked by seafood fans as its rustic exterior and convenience-store vibe might not register with visitors who are looking for fresh casual seafood either...

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 Phipps, (who trained at the Johnson...

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 extends to the water’s...

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 to the Crystal Pier, which...

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 or outdoor ocean views...

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 dinner spot serves up...

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 authentic brick-lined atmosphere...

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 experience” than a place to go to eat...

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. Found within a former historic residence that dates back to...

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 every opportunity, the colorful...

Pirate’s Table Seafood Restaurant is a classic seafood restaurant that’s found along Carolina Beach road, and features all the Cape Fear region classics, but without the big close-to-the-beach prices. With a simple exterior and a simple...

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 wood interior, with subdued...

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 night!  Featuring a cool...

Port Land Grille is becoming one of Wilmington’s favorite destinations for delicious steaks and refined entrees in a warm and elegant atmosphere. Convenient for visitors staying in both Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach, and boasting a broad...

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 selections, this Downtown Southport...

For a cool cocktail to top off a long downtown exploration, or an easy-going and sunny meal to complement the waterfront surroundings, head to Southport’s Provision Company. Located on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway, and recently named...

Visitors who are cruising through Hampstead and who want to satisfy a seafood craving, ( a perfectly understandable desire considering that Hampstead is known as North Carolina’s seafood capital), can make a quick stop at the east-to miss but...

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, and bordered by palm trees, this...

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 that’s designed for...

Shirley’s Diner is a super casual restaurant that’s initially easy to miss, due to a Leland location that’s tucked away behind a busy shopping center, but which remains a popular destination for locals who are in the mood for good...

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 Island. With fun and active...

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 cool seafood joint is the...

A lot of newcomers are a little wary when they first arrive at Silver Hill Grill. Located in Supply, NC – which is just inland from Holden Beach – and found within a simple, one-story building that’s bordered by local homes, this...

Wilmington residents and visitors in the Monkey Junction area have a new venue for a Sunday football game or a Happy Hour drink with friends in the form of the Slainte Irish Pub. With a friendly atmosphere, plenty of outdoor and indoor tables and...

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 to be the best host. From the moment you walk through...

Something Fishy Seafood Restaurant is a back-to-basics seafood shack that’s found in central Wilmington along a quieter and less bustling section of College Road. Found within a modest sized but distinctive bright yellow and blue diner-style...

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 exploring all along the Cape Fear...

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 dining area, as well the expansive...

The Sugar Shack is a cool Oak Island eatery that brings a little tropical spice to a traditionally beachy menu. Specializing in Jerk flavoring and entrees, this restaurant will wow patrons with an abundance of bold flavors that fit in perfectly with...

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 establishment is a subtle addition to...

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 convenience of club guests, 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 course. Boasting a castle-like...

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 shaded under the blue and...

The Pirates Deck is a fun afternoon, evening, or even after-hours hang-out where patrons can feast on big plates of classic southern fare and seafood baskets in a relaxed and no-frills atmosphere. Located in one of the busiest sections of the island...

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 Intracoastal Waterway, patrons can treat...

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, and a full-service bar for...

When you’re this close to the coast, and in a city that’s as creative as Wilmington, it’s easy to find restaurants that take new twists with traditional seafood, and Umaii is no exception. This sushi bar and restaurant which...

The Village Cafe & Deli is a unique little gem in the heart of Hampstead that’s found just off of US Highway 17 and, at first glance, looks like a residential home or business Visitors who find this little restaurant, however, will be...

Whiskey Trail Pub & Grill is a hidden gem that’s tucked away near the Masonboro Sound, and which serves as a popular hang-out for Wilmington residents in the Masonboro Loop and Monkey Junction area. Serving up good food and a fun bar...

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 Southport features impressive...