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The 50 best bars and drinks in Wilmington
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedJun 29, 2025
Updated • updatedJun 29, 2025
Many of us are foodies on the Wanderlog team, so naturally we’re always on the hunt to eat at the most popular spots anytime we travel somewhere new. With favorites like The Blind Elephant, Satellite Bar and Lounge, and Blue Post Billiards and more, get ready to experience the best flavors around Wilmington.
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Other best of categories in Wilmington
Restaurants
Attractions
Cafes
Cheap eats
Breakfast and brunch
Bakeries
Breweries and beer
Romantic places
Family restaurants
affordable
Cocktail bar
The Blind Elephant is a 1920s-style cocktail bar hidden in an alley off North Front Street, offering a speakeasy experience with mood lighting and exposed brick interiors. The bar features a colorful chalkboard menu with creatively named elixirs, cocktails on tap, and mocktails. Guests can cozy up in spacious booths to enjoy live tunes while sipping on classic cocktails or mixologist-crafted signature elixirs.
Found this speakeasy last night and super glad we did! Great vibes, incredible alcoholic and NA drink selection, and good live music. Our bartender, Kevin, was awesome and absolutely held it down on a super busy night! 10/10
Erica S — Google review
What a fun experience this is! The atmosphere and building itself is a treat in itself. Thursday nights they have live jazz, bands play, and they are wonderful. People will even get up and dance, swing, waltz, etc. been here for date nights, with groups of friends and girls night out. They have a good selection of drinks and service. The place is clean and overall enjoyable to sit and visit in.
This place was incredible. For a cocktail person, their menu was amazing. In particular, the seasonal Cabin Fever was amazing. It was subtle and balanced with nothing overpowering the drink. If you’re into craft cocktails and in Wilmington, this is a must do.
Our friends took us for a “tour” of downtown Wilmington and we were not disappointed! This speakeasy is one of a kind. Hidden in an alley I was a little apprehensive, but once we walked in I was blown away. I felt like I was in a Time Machine! This place has a Sarah of spirits. I ordered an old fashioned with Jefferson’s, and my wife ordered one of their featured cocktails. 🍹 The bartenders are true mixologists! This is a Wilmington hidden gem!
How did the B52's put it. Funky little shack. This bar is great. A speak easy with style and class. Master mixologists behind the bar serving up tantalizing concoctions. Plentiful seating and lounge like music with a live piano on certain evenings.
We live downtown but usually avoid most of the bars and restaurants because of the touristy/party vibe. We were thrilled when we found the Blind Elephant a couple years ago though, because it seemed a little more upscale and the bartenders seemed like true professionals, crafting beautiful cocktails to go along with the great ambience of piano music and old-fashioned speakeasy vibe.
We went in recently, bringing a friend from out of town in, promising him a true elevated experience. However, when he ordered one of their signature cocktails, the bartender was anything but accommodating. She gave him a dead stare, then walked away without commenting, and started whispering to the other two male bartenders- clearly it was about our friend’s drink order. She did everything short of rolling her eyes directly in our face, then proceeded to spend a full 15 minutes slowly and exaggeratedly making the drink, as if she were being asked to build the Great Wall of China with a spoon. Obviously, she was trying to teach us a lesson about ordering labor-intensive drinks, Even though it was only about 8:30 and the bar was still very empty. The worst part of it was, when we finally did get the drink, It tasted watered-down and flavorless. She had sacrificed all the flavor and let it get diluted in order to over-exaggerate her efforts and teach us some kind of lesson.
I know in downtown, bartenders are used to just pouring vodka and beer straight down tourists throats, but if that’s the kind of bartender you want to be, why not just go work at one of the million other touristy places that will do that? Next time we will go to Dram Tree, Underfront, or Fox’s For a truly elevated experience.
This place has a great atmosphere and they do the speakeasy vibe well even with their music adding to the feel. Drinks were excellent. Having a membership and or a fee to get in is a bit bizarre. My only real complaint is that they have a speaker right above a coach on the second floor so it is blaring at you yet the couch is so comfortable.
What a cool experience! They really capture a special energy in this place! The seating is ample and comfortable, the drinks are well made, and the staff is super kind. Such a gem to stumble across tucked away in the alley. You really get the sense of discovery walking back to it and seeing the expanse inside of properly curated decor. I live far away but this has become a must come spot when I visit!
21 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Bar
Satellite Bar and Lounge is a great place for people to hang out and have a drink. It has a funky, wood-accented decor, and craft beer is always on tap. There are also weekend live music events happening here!
Feels like a hip Boulder,CO bar/brewery. Incredible, large back area with corn hole, dogs, music and tree canopy. Ages 21 to 81. Like nothing else that I have visited in Wilmington.
Mark F — Google review
Absolutely LOVE this place! they have a whole board dedicated to listing their gluten free beers, the margaritas are always delicious, plenty of spacious seating especially for larger groups, pretty outdoor area, AND it’s connected to a taco place that has lots of gluten free and vegetarian options as well! Only thing I’d really love to see added is Tap to Pay/Contactless as a payment option
Awesome bar with a ton of local options to try. The black widow cider on tap was phenomenal. The outdoor area was great as well; plenty of tables to bring your own food and two bean bag toss lanes. Drinks were very reasonably priced. Will absolutely be back!
Great atmosphere!! Indoors is comfy with couches and cushy chairs, while the outdoor area is spacious with lots of seating and a great place to enjoy live music.
No food here, got pizzas from Benny's across the road. Beer selection was extensive. Had a few larger that I liked. Sat under the pavilion out back during a rain storm. Cool place.
Great bar, one of our favorite hangs. Such a great, laid back vibe, dog-friendly bar with plenty of seating including indoor/outdoor, couches. Great service and friendly people.
This place is always a go to for lounging and socializing. We recently hosted an event here.
They host live music, dance 💃🏼 and movie nights, and their little taco joint - Block Taco has a variety of fresh made tex mex and vegetarian options.
The atmosphere is casual & fun with indoor & outdoor entertainment like cornhole and picnic tables for games or cards.
Very cool place especially to bring your dog while you put down a couple beers/drinks while you kick back on comfy furniture. Or for the movie nights on the huge well lit open air patio, also where you can hear great live music on Fridays & Saturdays.
120 Greenfield St #6123, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
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2
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cheap
Pool hall
Bar
Blue Post Billiards is a popular hangout spot for friends and college buddies. The bar has a cool atmosphere with great staff, like bartender Andrew who ensures the safety of patrons. The establishment is run by Jo, creating a safe environment for all visitors. It offers fun games, drink specials, and welcomes people of all ages over 21. Located in an alleyway, it's the perfect place to unwind after taking part in activities like the Ghostwalk or Haunted Pub Crawl downtown.
FOR ALL MY SINGLE LADIES:
I picked this spot for my tinder date meetup and was so glad I did! 😅
The male bartender (the mildly cute one with dark hair... I feel like he said his name was John, but don't hold me to that!) totally had my back throughout the night!
I let him know that I was there for a first meet-up and that I was kinda nervous about it too....
The bartender was kind enough to keep an eye on me (and my drink). He checked in on me often, but discreetly, and made sure I was not only safe, but comfortable too.
As a young, thriving, single female,
I truly.... truly, value and appreciate any/ all efforts made like this by the establishment's crew/ staff.
Huge... huge... huge THANKS to my barkeep, (John/ cute mystery man) for ensuring my night and safety. I appreciate you, Sir.
Best,
Kat 💚
Kat L — Google review
“We don’t accept aliens here”
I had a very negative experience at this location that left me and my wife feeling highly disrespected. I showed my valid North Carolina driver’s license and explained she was my wife, who also presented two valid government-issued IDs (foreign driver’s license and national ID). Both of hers were refused simply because they were foreign. The staff then said “we can’t accept alien here.” When I pointed out that she is not an alien and is here legally, he backtracked and claimed he only meant a passport was required.
When I asked to speak with a manager, he told me he was the manager, which made the situation even worse because there was no way to escalate the issue.
I understand NC law requires caution with IDs, but this was handled with offensive language, unprofessional behavior, and zero respect. Reading other reviews, I see this isn’t the first time — even Native Americans have posted about being denied entry here, along with other customers describing rude or dismissive staff. That makes it clear this is not a one-time incident but a recurring pattern that ownership needs to fix.
Until management takes this seriously, I cannot recommend this place.
LOVE. This place has the best vibes. Fun games. Great staff and drink specials. You have to bring your guests here when you come downtown. Plus it's located in an alleyway- perfect after taking friends on the Ghostwalk or Haunted Pub Crawl!
They are very prejudice, wouldn’t allow any Native Americans in to play pool. We was turned around at the door as being to intoxicated which was evaluated
We loved this place when we lived here 20 years ago, and we stopped in on a Thursday night on a trip back. The staff looked at us like we were criminals, being so old, and they refused to serve us after one drink. Mean people. Hateful toward the old. You don't deserve to play Steely Dan.
Used to be a favorite but the guy denied our entire group of 12 because one guy had a beer from our party bus. Lame!
It's a great neighborhood bar with pinball, darts and pool. Free membership required for one person in the group. No food service but great drinks!
Fun spot, lots of games and good drinks.
15 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
expensive
Vegan restaurant
Brunch restaurant
Cocktail bar
In the coastal town of Wilmington, The Green House Restaurant stands out as a prime example of sustainable dining. With a focus on farm-to-table principles, this eatery prioritizes seasonal flavors and fresh vegetables, offering a menu that caters to vegetarians.
Lovely peaceful atmosphere and extremely friendly service. The food was delicious. I am not vegan and didn't even think a thing of it being vegan . Started with a mocktail that was excellent. Had the word ocean in it?!. But can't remember the name. Was subtle light and refreshing. We ordered the bread and fried zucchini for appetizers, and the zucchini was my favorite of the 2, although the bread was good. But the zucchini was on point . For dinner, I had the Lions Mane and also tried the eggplant. Both were excellent. Tried all the desserts, and they were amazing. On the menu, it just had vanilla cake, chocolate cake, and cheesecake, but they were all much more than basic! Everything was plated beautifully and full of flavor. Highly recommend regardless of if you're vegan as I am a meat eater through and through, but I am a foodie more than anything, and they did an excellent job delivering creative and wonderful food!
Jennifer R — Google review
Dined here last night with my wife and daughter and could not have enjoyed it more. The dining room is clean and airy and very comfortable. Warmly greeted at door we enjoyed excellent and friendly service at bar as we enjoyed a cocktail. Moved to our table and service continued to be excellent with food being the highlight. Everything here is completely vegan and ethically sourced and absolutely delicious. Flavorful and very satisfying we enjoyed every part of the whole experience. Highly recommend.
Went here for our anniversary and everything was exquisite. We had the cornbread for our appetizer, which featured matcha butter and strawberry ginger jam. My wife had the charred and I had the paella, both of which were incredibly delicious. We loved that the entire menu was vegan and the restaurant had a clear commitment to sustainability - even the bathrooms had washable cloths instead of paper towels. Definitely would recommend this place to anyone who is looking for a refined, vegan dining experience!
We had the most wonderful dinner at this vegan restaurant while celebrating my husband’s birthday, and it couldn’t have been more perfect! The menu was creative and full of flavors that even non-vegans would love. Every dish was beautifully presented and bursting with freshness.
The atmosphere was cozy and the staff were attentive, friendly, and made us feel genuinely welcomed. They even went the extra mile to make the evening memorable for my husband.
A perfect blend of delicious food, warm service, and a great vibe!!
Dining at The Greenhouse was an unforgettable experience. The space was spotless and inviting, and the atmosphere felt genuinely joyful. Our server, Zach, provided exceptional service — attentive, warm, and knowledgeable.
The food was presented like artwork, with flavors that were both unique and masterfully balanced. It’s clear that everyone at The Greenhouse takes real pride in their craft. Every detail, from the ambiance to the artistry of the dishes, made for a truly special evening. We can’t wait to return.
What a delightful find! Vegan fine dining, not Asian, very different, creative, and delicious. Brought a non-vegan with us who loved everything we tried. We tried a great number of the dishes. Superb. I’m so glad they’re here!!
I am not a vegan myself. I was here with a friend who is vegan and I have to say it was just fantastic! The food was excellent and the service was very, very friendly. The restaurant is very clean and tastefully decorated. I would come here again at any time and can really recommend the restaurant to anyone. Even non-vegans 😉
The food was delicious, we ordered appetizers, entrees, and drinks (alcoholic and non-) and everything was amazing. The Lions Mane dish was far above the rest though, truly unique!
1427 Military Cutoff Rd unit 106, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA•
affordable
Thai restaurant
Asian restaurant
Banquet hall
Indochine Restaurant in Wilmington, NC offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on traditional and contemporary Vietnamese and Thai cuisine. The restaurant is known for its exotic setting filled with art, including an outdoor garden and gazebos. Indochine is dedicated to maintaining high standards of cleanliness, quality, nutrition, and presentation of their dishes. Their nutriceutical cuisine philosophy emphasizes the health benefits of meals rich in fiber, minerals, fresh vegetables, and herbs.
This place was recommended by a local for a unique experience with amazing food. We were amazed by the place, gift shop and food! We were lucky to have sat outside and was even covered when it started raining. Great service from Adam and his recommendations. The food was amazing and so was the dessert! It was really busy on the middle of a Saturday, so be prepared to wait when coming here. I will say it was worth it!! Check this place out for amazing Thai and Vietnamese food!! We will be back :)
Evan K — Google review
We drove over five hours to dine here, mainly for the outdoor seating and atmosphere. Unfortunately, the experience started a bit rocky. The hostess who greeted us wasn’t particularly friendly, and after requesting outdoor seating, we ended up waiting nearly an hour—only for the rain to force the patio to close. We were eventually seated indoors in a separate section from the main dining area at a half-booth table that felt cramped for six adults. Also, be aware the restaurant only has one restroom stall per gender, so lines can form.
On the positive side, our waiter was outstanding, fast, friendly, and very accommodating. The sweet and sour chicken was excellent, with a sauce that was among the best I’ve ever had. The shrimp and scallops were tasty, though they could have used a bit more sear. We sampled a few desserts, and every one of them was fantastic. Overall, the food not only looked great but also delivered on flavor.
This place was very special and one of the most unique restaurants I've eaten at. To start, the menu and food were most Asian inspired and had special spices and herbs in clouded with it. The taste of the food and the way it was presented were delicious, specially made, and the decorations were very pretty and classy. The service was very constant, nice attitude, and provided everything needed throughout the meal. Had a smile on her face and she was nice to talk with and explained the menu items and sized portions very well.
The atmosphere was very pleasant, special, and not loud. The most unique was the Asian decorations I side a d the absolutely beautiful garden outside and the setup. It was like an Asian city on the outside and had outside huts you could sit and eat at. It was beautiful to observe. Even the bathrooms were art gems with scenic visuals of towns illustrated, and were clean.
If you like Asian Thai food a d exotic sceneries, this is the place you should try out.
This Indochine Restaurant off Wayne Drive in Wilmington has a great atmosphere and the food is absolutely fabulous. On this particular evening, our table for 8 was in the outside garden near the koi pond. A very enjoyable stroll to our table. Our party ordered several appetizers, but I didn't get my camera out fast enough before everyone started digging in. I was able to get a decent picture of our appetizer sampler, but please be aware some of the appetizers were gone before I could get the picture. My entree was the Hokkien Hot Noodles. This was a very good choice on my part, but everyone's entree at our table looked delicious. They do the call ahead thing and they get busy, but if you want a very unique dining experience with fabulous food, you really should give Indochine Restaurant a try.
Virginia our server was EXCELLENT! I had the Yum Yum Chicken that she recommended and it surely didn’t disappoint. My wife had the Appetizer Sampler which was just as good, and it was more than enough for her lunch. Sit outside, it’s well worth the wait.
We will be back for sure.
I write honest reviews. My husband had seen something about the huts and the experience of eating within the Asian garden with statues, etc. As a Top Google Guide I had offers from other restaurants in Wilmington but I didn’t want to let my husband down because he really wanted to try this place.
After 5 hours in a car—I was starving & exhausted. We met Chris & he found us seating in a hut outside; it was kind of neat at first, and all seemed okay until the flies found our food. As a scientist, flies freak me out! So that oscillating fan they had running above us made little difference. They were landing on everything. I spent the entire time swinging my hands trying to swipe them away. Ugh!
I ate as quickly as possible. My husband and son both gave their opinion that the food was just okay. The thing is, we go out a lot, we sample from all kinds of chefs, we love spices and flavors but natural and often grass-fed & even organic or farm to table. Also our son’s jasmine tea was cold. We didn’t bother saying anything to the waitress.
We just nodded that everything was good because we’re polite. Overall, I’m glad we tried this place at least once. Mainly because I loved the Asian garden theme. It’s too bad we didn’t meet the general manager. I’ve never been to a place as a Google contributor and not had management come and introduce themselves. I was also disappointed in some of the employees who just didn’t seem nice. No excuse me when they walked by, no greetings. Nothing. People did improve their attitude once they found out I was writing a review. I think with tip we dropped around $100–and weren’t really impressed. Sort of a waste for us as foodies, we expect more.
Candidly,
Josephine Local Guide
Very popular restaurant! There was a long line waiting to eat when they opened, so I knew the food must be good. They did not disappoint! This yellow curry had amazing flavor. Really cool decorations and outdoor seating in the garden. A little gift shop with some cool stuff, too.
This place is so beautiful!! Immediately walking in, I felt transported to some gentrified southeast Asian amalgamation— and I actually love it. The outdoors seating is immaculate and I was surprised how cool it was despite the warm temperature. The bathroom is so eclectic and quirky. You can really tell that a lot of thought was put into designing this restaurant. The service is amazing, but the food is a little subpar. I was hoping for more flavor in my pho, but the Yum Yum Chicken was superb.
7 Wayne Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA•
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affordable
Bar
Bar & grill
Pizza restaurant
Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar is a sophisticated and open-air craft cocktail bar situated on the riverfront in downtown Wilmington. Offering unobstructed views of the Cape Fear River, historic harbor, and downtown area, it's an ideal spot for a romantic evening. The bar features ample lounge-style seating and serves an array of local beers, wines, craft cocktails, whiskeys, and bourbons.
Came here for the first time on our anniversary and then brought a group of friends to celebrate a friend‘s birthday. Great for both celebrations! It’s got the best view and always has great music whether it’s live music or canned. The food is some of our favorite. They have gluten-free options for those that need them. The place is clean and the vibe is super fun but also relaxed. Only downside, some of the patio tiles in the floor are loose and just about gave me a heart attack when they drastically shifted considering you’re standing on the ceiling of the building. The gas fire pits are always so pretty and watching the sunset from here is breathtaking! We will definitely be back!
Noel P — Google review
Great roof top bar but the service was the worst!!!
It on the top of the embassy suites. If you park in the garage you have to get to the ground floor of the hotel and take the elevator to the right in the elevator bank. There’s like 5 elevators and they all go to very specific places. It’s quite confusing.
The view is perfect with 360 views and the perfect place to be for a sunset. Great seating options with tables for small or large groups.
Our server Lindsey was the WORST! She forgot our drink order and came back and asked what we wanted again. No big deal.
Then We added food. His food came out. Mine never ever came out even though she came back and asked me if I wanted to add pepperoni. I never saw my food. So he ate and I had nothing. A good server checks. She never came back.
It was a Monday night so not terribly busy. No excuse. I finally just went to the bar and closed my tab out.
If you can’t remember orders maybe get a note pad. If you aren’t a people person then don’t be a server. Having a bad day? No worries. Everyone has an off night but when no explanation is given that is very poor service.
Lots of potential to be a great place but service killed it. Didn’t go back even though I stayed here for 4 days.
I was staying at the Embassy Suites in Wilmington so I stopped in to the rooftop bar one evening for a drink and to check out the view. The view from up there are amazing! There’s plenty of shading up there as well, since you’re on the roof and it’s pretty hot up there, but it’s comfy in the shade. Service was decent and they have a full bar, along with a menu of decent bar bites. It’s worth visiting when in the area!
Didn't eat anything but the pizza looked awesome when it was delivered to the folks next to us. Outstanding views and cocktails. Live music Friday and Saturday nights.
Such a sweet spot to grab a drink and food with friends. The view is breathtaking and they do have shade which makes it so much more comfortable.
The place visually looks amazing. My wife and I visited from out of town and really enjoyed the scenery from the rooftop. The lighting was really nice and the live music was good. Even the security guard checking IDs was cool as a fan. As we were leaving I sat and chatted with and he was a real down to earth person. The friends we visited go to that place pretty often and I can see why.
My cons would be the food and the prices. It's typical bar food and didn't really stand out from anything I've experienced back in Ohio, especially for the prices. If they redid their menu with some items that are worth the prices they are charging, I know this place would do WAY better in the food category.
Overall, I had a great time.
Nice rooftop bar on the Cape Fear River, but couldn't enjoy the experience. Terrible band the night we were there. Super loud and offensive. Ran off the customers. Staff was apologetic. I felt bad for them. Would try again. Management needs to do better.
We had a great time at Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar with the family! We ordered plain wings with the sauce on the side and some beers — everything was tasty. The rooftop view of the waterfront made the experience even better. Perfect spot to relax, enjoy a meal, and take in the scenery. Highly recommend!
9 Estell Lee Pl, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
Distillery
Cocktail bar
Liquor store
End of Days Distillery in Wilmington, NC is a must-visit spot for those who enjoy exploring local distilleries. The atmosphere is unique and the drinks are exceptional, making it the coolest place in town to grab a drink. While it's not a restaurant, there are often food trucks nearby if you get hungry. Visitors can expect top-notch service and a fantastic tasting experience before even sitting down.
I had a great experience at the End of Days. We registered online for the 11am tour and tasting. The tour and tasting is free. If you get Abigail for your tour guide you will be lucky. She is great! You are able to taste all of their products. You learn about the history of their building and how they got started. All of the staff were very welcoming. They also have a lot of interesting cocktails. I really liked the openness of their lounge area. Lots of seating options. We really liked their Barrel aged rum and their cargo mule in a can. They have 2 single room bathrooms for all. It's nice that the knob indicates if in use. There is graveling parking on the side. There is also a kitchen where different chefs provide food on a weekly basis. Depending on the day you go you can get very different foods. You should definitely visit!
April W — Google review
Wow…what a cool local distillery. My wife and I booked a tour prior to a spring break trip to Wilmington. End of Days was our first stop. The tour and tasting was free. This was great as we have attended many distillery tours that are not free. I don’t mind paying but it was a pleasant surprise.
The tour guide was Lizzie and she did a great job. Very friendly and informative. She did a great job of explaining each spirit throughout the tasting. The bar offered great cocktails and beers. We also liked the community kitchen which was serving empanadas.
This was a great experience and I would certainly go back. Highly recommended!
FANTASTIC experience. Definitely recommend the tour (it’s Free!!!). Not sure if you can request a guide but my group had Lizzie as our tour guide and she knew EVERYTHING!!! Would highly recommend her to future groups. I am naturally an inquisitive person and had random questions throughout. She never skipped a beat and confidently answered every single question I had with ease. She was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and upbeat. Lizzie is awesome! 👏 👏 👏
I’ve loved your Luna Bloom Gin now for years but I found a few new favorites via the tasting as well.
The building interior is very well styled and inviting and the cocktails from the Lounge were delicious.
The gift shop had a great selection too! We got a t-shirt, some bar accessories, and a candle.
We were very impressed by the ingenuity of the owner to have opened in February, 2020 and to still come up with ways to keep the place running and thriving through COVID. So proud of you all and wish I could have met the owner to say thanks for the hospitality and inspiring other small businesses (like us) to do big things!
This place is great! They have a spacious area for indoor seating, a nice partially covered patio for outdoor seating, and a rotating restaurant pop-up in an old shipping container. Our timing didn't work out for their (free!) tour, but we wandered into the mercantile and Lizzie poured spirit samples and explained how each one was made and what made it unique. Very interesting!
My daughter got a cocktail that she raved about and we hung out for a bit while deciding what to do for dinner. Really unique place in the Wilmington area that's worth going a tad out of your way for. And it's dog friendly!
We visited End of Days this evening (7/31/25) and had a very nice time. The atmosphere was great, the bartender was nice and attentive and we enjoyed our drinks. This establishment will now be part of our regular rotation of places to visit when we go out. Also, I had a chance to sample their barrel aged rum, and it was fantastic! Highly recommend.
Stopped here on whim while travelling back home to Philadelphia. What a great spot. Friendly staff and very tasty drinks. Made sure to grab a few bottles to take home. I had the Juniper Old Fashioned with their Castaway Series Barrel Rested Gin, well worth it. Wish I could have stayed longer, but will return when travelling back down south.
Always one of my favorite places to go. The Concept Kitchen is a nice touch! Empanada Fusion Co was onsite with delicious food!
Came for tour. ( which is free just book it). Very clean outside and inside seating areas. There is food on site. Asian noodles. Also great bottles for sale and Sunday sell of bottles from 12pm until 6pm.
1815 Castle St, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA•
cheap
Bar
Live music venue
Night club
Nestled just a stone's throw from the shimmering shores of Wrightsville Beach, The Palm Room has been a beloved fixture since its inception in 1955. This historic bar exudes a laid-back charm that invites both locals and visitors to unwind with friends over cold beers and expertly crafted cocktails. With live music filling the air most nights, patrons can dance to vibrant beach beats while enjoying the warm atmosphere created by friendly faces all around.
Cool Place. Nice vibe. Watched a couple really cool bands and had a few drinks. Not a large place, but a few different areas where you can stay out of the way and enjoy yourself or you can get yourself close to the action. TVs available too with sports on. Looked like a place I would have REALLY enjoyed in my earlyy 20s.
Frank M — Google review
This is a dive bar. No food despite whomever posted other pictures of food. Decent priced for being walking distance to the beach. Not terribly clean... dive bar.
Great service, Curt was great.
Bathrooms. I personally would drop a deuce there. See pictures. No lock, ride share style
We had our wedding welcome party at The Palm Room and it was AWESOME! The owners, Kat and Kurt, were great to work with and the bar service was incredible (2 bartenders and a barback for ~150 people!). It was an unforgettable night and truly a way to welcome people to the island!
I LOVE PALM ROOM!! This has been my go to spot for almost 5 years for the best music. The staff are so friendly and every night is a good night when there. The inside is decorated so cute, truly a beach bar. I
recommend to all my friends when they come into town:)
Best place in Wilmington on a Tuesday night!! Great price alc, legend Dj with a dance floor and stage. Have a bunch of bar games but most are crammed to close together in the back. Always had a good time and it’s a minute walk to the beach.
Cee the bouncer was very helpfulll
I lost my wallet and him and the bar tender helped me find it. They are professional and I will definitely come back to get drunk again there. I recommend them please come here
Ice cold beers, but no food of season. The bartender suggested we go to other places for food. Lol.
Always loved this place! Not super crowded (at least the time I spend there!) A must go to for me!
11 E Salisbury St, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, USA•
affordable
Cocktail bar
Sauce'd is a vibrant cocktail spot located along the Riverwalk, offering a variety of visually stunning and Instagram-worthy creations. The bar prides itself on using local North Carolina spirits and ingredients to craft its signature drinks, ensuring freshness and quality. The relaxed and fun atmosphere makes it easy for patrons to feel at home while enjoying their expertly crafted cocktails. While the establishment doesn't serve food beyond French fries, it's an ideal place to enjoy light bites alongside creatively mixed beverages.
Sauce’d is the perfect spot for great drinks! The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, and the service is top-notch. Whether it’s sunset or evening, the scenery adds magic to every sip. Highly recommend!
Danyi P — Google review
I am leaving the Food rating blank because we limited our visit to cocktails only (i honestly don’t even know if they offer food). Very nice location right on the waterfront in the downtown area. Great place to sip your favorite libations while you watch the sunset or just watch folks pass by on the riverwalk. There is a covered patio to keep the mid-day rays at bay while you slip away. Comfy soft searing eagerly awaits. Full bar. Lots of beer and wine selections and coffee too—there is something here for everyone. The bar tender was very friendly and the owner was a personable and likable gentleman who loves his little doggies. You should stop in for a visit. Have a drink and strike up a conversation. Ahoy Captain!
I've been to this location twice and I've enjoyed myself. They have both an indoor and outdoor seating area so if you're looking to cool down you have a place to be but can also sit and watch boats on the water. The cocktails were really nice and the service was pretty good but not a place I'd sit and chat with the bartenders as a regular.
Fantastic location right on the water. Relaxed atmosphere. They have little dogs you can chill with! The owner is just an all around good soul. Enjoy!
This place was super unique and cute! It was perfect for a cocktail and snack while we were waiting for our dinner reservation down the river.
The fries were so good and the drinks were even better! Such a cute in and out spot. I could also see coming here and just hanging out for the evening too!
We will be back!
My boyfriend and I walked in on a Saturday late afternoon around 4ish, and the bartender was completely unwelcoming . We sat down and she asked my boyfriend what he would like to see and then asked him for his ID. I wasn’t drinking so I didn’t get anything. The bartender looks at me and I felt like she wanted to see my ID as well which is common if you’re sitting at a bar. I said “ do you need to see mine as well” and she goes “ um are you drinking “ with a horrible attitude. I said no i’m not and she replied okay then. It just seemed incredibly rude , and her attitude was just awful. We wanted to stay to enjoy the atmosphere , but ended up leaving. if you don’t like your job get a new one ! 😂
The vibe doesn't quite match what it feels like they're going for, millennial music but early 20's crowd. Pretty simply decorated. The drinks were good and fun but prices were closer to Vegas prices but maybe that's the riverfront cost. Fries were okay and the sauce is what saves them. Not a bad spot although it was more difficult to order and then close the tab than it should have been.
The staff at Sauce'd is amazing. The drinks are great, the fries are the best and the location, view and vibe can't be beat. Jeremiah and Courtney are the best hosts. Thanks so much for another great evening. Private parties also. You the bomb.
224 S Water St #1g, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Seafood restaurant
American restaurant
Oceanic is a high-end seafood restaurant located on the historic Crystal Pier, offering outdoor dining with stunning views of the crystal clear Atlantic Ocean. The menu features an array of local seafood dishes, including shrimp tacos and crab dip. Guests can enjoy live music at the pier during the summer music series or visit nearby venues for more entertainment.
We have had several recent visits after a couple of years of not doing so.
Each time it has been enjoyable, the atmosphere has been beautiful and our servers have been excellent. Sophia took amazing care of us on this last visit must be mentioned! She had many other tables she was working with and you would have never known as she was so attentive, kind, and made us feel so welcome. She even made sure our seating was exactly as we wished after first being placed in an area that we felt was too cramped.
We had another wonderful meal and enjoyed everything so much.
I would vote to bring back the pimento cheese dip! That was a favorite and very different.
Thanks for a great night in beautiful Wrightsville Beach and in particular our server for her sincerity and kindness.
Beth T — Google review
The view alone is worth the visit, but what truly made our lunch special was the amazing food and the exceptional service.
The menu is diverse with something for everyone. We had calamari, tuna poke nachos, grouper and steak. Everything was absolutely delicious, cooked to perfection.
Our server Alyssa, made the experience even better. She was warm, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable about the menu. She offered great recommendations and made us feel genuinely welcome from start to finish.
We'll definitely be returning!
Impressive! Delicious! And the view! 2 coworkers and I went to celebrate her birthday. Shrimp scampi with grits instead of linguine was my dinner. SOOOO good. We tried crab dip, shrimp tacos and more shrimp with pancetta over grits. Surprised by a flour less chocolate cake with strawberries and whipped cream while acoustic live music on the pier (we were soaking wet from gathering shells under the pier). I had Pinot grigio and my friends frozen Mai Tai. Stuffed to the gills. This is no tourist trap; it's the real deal. Enjoyed by 3 Carolinians who know great seafood! Worthwhile and cannot wait for another visit! If you are thinking, stop and just go. You won't regret it. The ocean waves and sunset was incredible 💓🌊🍤😻
I visit from Georgia every year and always enjoy trying new restaurants. The atmosphere here is wonderful, but unfortunately, the service, food quality, and especially portion sizes don’t match the price, it really feels like you’re paying mainly for the view.
My wife’s meal arrived in about 10 minutes, but mine took nearly 25, which made the experience a bit awkward for us as a couple. It seems they may have forgotten my order.
Overall, it’s worth visiting once for the view, but I wouldn’t rush back.
An absolutely lovely experience! Strongly recommend if you want to eat quality food by the water. Ate outside directly on the pier and live music on Sunday afternoon.
The food was some of the best I've had of all the waterfront restaurants in the surrounding area. You have to get the fried Calamari with the cherry peppers but the wasn't a single thing our group didn't enjoy.
The location and atmosphere of this seaside restaurant are fantastic – perfect for enjoying the view and relaxing by the shore. The food itself was just okay, nothing special but decent enough. Unfortunately, the service left a lot to be desired. The wait staff was very slow to respond, and I actually received my soda after I had already finished my meal. With such a great setting, this place has potential, but they really need to improve their service to match the environment.
Beautiful setting and views, with a great array of menu options. Service was a bit slow even though it was a seemingly not-so-busy Tuesday night. Would definitely recommend. Will return, the grouper was delightful. Steaks came with larger side portion sizes.
Just took my wife here for a birthday lunch. We really enjoyed the view from the pier. It was so nice to eat outside. Even though the restaurant was packed during lunch rush, we still didn’t even have to wait. It was easy to get a seat for four..
We ordered the sweet Thai chili shrimp as an appetizer. It was pretty good a little heavy on the sauce. Nothing wrong with it. I probably just wouldn’t order it again. I would try something else.
Wife wanted an adult beverage for her birthday. She got the endless summer blackberry lemonade. She loved it ended up having another one lol
Also wanna know that we only went to this restaurant because my wife watches some show called “the summer, I turned pretty.” I have no idea what it’s about but it’s the only reason we went here in the first place.
I got the special grouper, which is fantastic. She got the mahi special what she loved my daughter order chicken tenders and fries. I was surprised to see that they were real chicken tenders and not frozen ones like all the other restaurants in the area. My son got the popcorn shrimp.
Overall view was fantastic. Food was fantastic. Service was fantastic. I would definitely come back for a dinner date or a special occasion five out of five.
703 S Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, USA•
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Nature & Parks
Beaches
Wrightsville Beach is a charming town in North Carolina, just east of Wilmington. This cozy four-mile-long island offers beach house rentals, high-end resorts, fishing piers, and a variety of restaurants and shops. The Blockade Runner Beach Resort is a popular choice with its boutique style and amenities like beachfront bar, pool, sauna, hot tub, fitness center, oceanfront dining and the Aquarium Bar. The John Nesbitt Loop is a scenic 2.
Permanently Closed
affordable
American restaurant
Bakery
Breakfast restaurant
Sweet n Savory Cafe is a vibrant restaurant adorned with colorful murals, offering all-day American cuisine and featuring an on-site bakery. Established in 1994, this eatery provides incredible and affordable dinner options such as soups, hand-cut steaks, mac n cheese, pasta dishes, and various quesadillas. The Mediterranean Veggie Plate stands out as a must-try dish.
Wow! Darn good food that won't kill your wallet. Three of us filled up on scrumptious food, one had a beer and our bill was less than $50. Our server was very friendly, and it seemed all the servers were friendly.
Their parking lot isn't very big but there is some parking on the street.
Melissa R — Google review
The outdoor patio is lovely with plenty of fans to beat the summer heat. The staff is friendly and accommodating, especially for large groups. The spicy Philly cheese is top-notch. Plenty of parking however can be a challenging when busy but it's worth it for the huge and delicious burgers and sandwiches. Don't miss the shrimp bisque—it's highly recommended!
This place is definitely a gem! We were in town for a sports tournament and looking for a good place to eat. We try to eat locally whenever possible, instead of doing chains. We opted for this spot based off positive reviews. It did not disappoint!
It's a cute little place with a down home feel. The service and the food were very good. The prices are very reasonable and the portion sizes are generous. They were able to accommodate my son's gluten free diet without any issues, including dessert.
We are so glad we decided to give them a try and will definitely return next time we are in the area!
Stopped in after spending a few hours at the beach. It was our first time here. And it was one of the few places that was not about to close so we wouldn't feel rushed.
This is an awesome restaurant! Super friendly staff! Our server Erika was patient with us as we were deciding what we wanted. Then she brought some pretzel buns with tomato basil bisque while we waited for our food.
Other staff came over to check on us when Erika was busy helping others. They were attentive.
We also enjoyed the music playlist. The atmosphere was enjoyable.
The food was exceptional. The steak ordered was perfectly cooked. Ribs were fall-off-the-bone delicious. The gyro was delicious. The chicken burger was cooked to order and was filling. Our Cuban sandwiches we tasty and filling. You definitely get your money's worth here. Portions are right. No skimping.
Definitely worth a visit. Next time we are in Wilmington we will have to come back.
We came in as a group of 4 and a baby. We got sat at a good size table for our company. Our waitress was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about the menu. She just didn't come by right after we got our food, and we wanted some additional condiments. We had the shrimp and grits, which were delicious, 5 stars, and would definitely come back for that. I also tried the corned beef hash which was also 5 star delicious! I was happy they had gf bread on the menu as well. There is a large selection on the menu and it was hard to decide what to try. I got a side of bacon with my entrée and it was perfectly cooked! The ranch was also outstanding!
This restaurant is a great place to eat dinner. The food was delicious, and the portions were large. The food was very delicious it exceeded our expectations. The pictures don't do it justice. You need to visit and see for yourself.
Cute cafe with some very fun decorations.
I think this is better as a breakfast/brunch place than dinner. Pancake hush puppies were SO good/highly recommend. Our cheesecake was so soft that it could be described as melted in the middle but still had good flavor. The shrimp in my shrimp and grits was awesome.
Very friendly staff and no wait on a Saturday evening.
Just a few miles from the beach, this cozy space was truly a spectacular find. Amazing atmosphere, clean, inspirational, and friendly service made early breakfast a treat. That was all before the delicious meal. The breakfast menu was truly filled with great selections, so be prepared for the most challenging part of your visit. While waiting for my meal, curiosity had me pull up both their lunch and dinner menus, and no surprise, it was just as enticing. Not only do they have an expansive menu for each meal, but the portion size is huge! The salmon benedict with spinach on top of a toasted Cuban bread was well presented, flavorful, and just delightful. The staff was very attentive and friendly. Will definitely return when I'm back in the area, if for nothing else, to explore their other menus.
1611 Pavilion Pl, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA•
affordable
American restaurant
Delivery service
Gluten-free restaurant
South Beach Grill is an upscale casual spot located on Lumina Ave. in Wrightsville Beach, offering a variety of seafood and New American dishes. The interior pays homage to the building's art deco origins, while the covered patio overlooks the scenic Banks Channel. Specialties include Crab and Seafood Nachos, Grouper Linda with a spiced pecan crust, and daily chalkboard specials featuring fresh local seafood. Additionally, they offer boat-docking facilities for visitors arriving by water.
This was my first time at the South Beach Grill. Everything on the menu looked really good. I heard some regulars talking to some other guests about the fried Black Eyed Peas. I didn’t have an opportunity to try them this time as I didn’t hear the conversation until after I was done with my meal, but I am planning on going back to try them. They really raved about them.
I ate out on the patio. The service is very good with friendly, helpful people. I appreciated the view very much, you can see the water from your seat.
I chose the catch of the day special for dinner. It was blackened red drum over a bed of seasoned rice with grilled asparagus and salsa verde.
The fish is cooked to perfection and seasoned exactly correctly. The rice was the tiniest bit under flavored but, you know how that goes, it is rice. The grilled asparagus was very good and there were also some mushrooms in the dish that were excellent. I could use more of them, but I would also say that, no matter how many of them there were.
The parking was a little tight with street parking available. The food was very good and I would guess that everything on the menu is delicious. I’ll absolutely be back.
Matt F — Google review
⭐ 1 Star
Two Strands of Hair – Unacceptable Experience
South Beach Grill has always been one of my favorite places to eat when I visit Wilmington—but after my most recent experience, I don’t think I’ll be returning. I’m honestly considering going to Oceanic instead.
I was served a plate of food that had a long, straight brown hair in it—very clearly not from anyone in my group or our server (who had curly hair). Some of the staff members did have hair that matched, though. That alone was extremely off-putting.
We flagged down a manager, but instead of addressing us directly, she passed the issue to our female server, who was the only one to apologize and ask if I’d like the dish remade. I said yes, because I understand mistakes can happen. It took about 10 minutes to get a new plate.
Then things got worse.
As I was boxing up the meal to take home, I noticed another hair—this time in my drink (which I had already drunk half of). At that point I was disgusted and just wanted to leave.
The final straw? When we got the bill, we were still charged full price for my meal, despite finding hair in both the food and the drink. No discount. No manager apology. Nothing. We paid it and left, but I left feeling really disappointed.
This restaurant used to be one I recommended. Now, I’m not so sure. The food may be good, but if this is how they handle cleanliness and customer concerns, it’s hard to feel confident coming back.
📸 Photos attached for reference.
The main dish was very good. The chef was heavy handed with the salt on the tuna appetizer. We sat at the bar and she was friendly and mostly attentive. Solid A- overall.
The clam chowder is good, a little on the thin side. The fried shrimp was excellent, they need to work on the slaw, very little flavor. The catch of the day was Mahi mahi, it was grilled and very good the green beans, sweet potato fries and french fries were good but not great. I would definitely go back, the service was a 10 for sure and the atmosphere was great.
Outstanding meal and good service. Friendly waitstaff. Drinks and food were really good. Only downside was it was loud inside. If the weather is good, sit out on the patio!
Highly recommend the pesto pasta with shrimp and the Grouper Linda.
our first visit on a day trip to Wrightsville and were looking for a place to eat by the water. this is not by the water and you may see the sunset through the trees. we sat off the main patio on a side deck, which was nice for a group but noisy with the kitchen fans and some smells on a hot day. food options are more limited with dinner than lunch. prices were on the high side and quality across our large party was hit and miss. Shrimp & Grits was the hit but pricey. fresh catch was the miss - nothing special at all with little seasoning and bland sides at an expensive price. Waitress was new but was attentive and very helpful. finally the required 3% on charges made the higher prices even more frustrating.
We go to SBG every time we are in Wrightsville, usually more than once. We have NEVER had bad food here. It is always excellent! We have always had wonderful service, as well. Some of my favorite dishes are the clam chowder, the makers Mark salad and the squash frites. My husband loves the sweet potato crusted flounder and the SB tacos. We also love their fried pickles. The flourless torte and PB pie are our two favorite desserts. Highly recommend this restaurant!
This is an awesome spot. The food is so good. Sara, you are the best! All of the safe is great and on point. Quick and amazing service.
100 S Lumina Ave, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, USA•
affordable
Bar & grill
American restaurant
Brunch restaurant
The Fork 'N' Cork is a charming brick-walled bar in the heart of Wilmington, offering a variety of gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers. This cozy pub and eatery provides a wide range of delicious options along with alcoholic beverages and outdoor seating.
The made my day!!
I suddenly found this place, walking down the street and just got a seat.
Appreciate server Jamie 🫶
She has a great attitude, knows what to suggest and was very sweet in general!
The food was great! Fresh&healthy! Loved it! Highly recommend as they have GF options
Alex Z — Google review
This is a cool place with a lot of potential! My family and I have popped in for a late lunch. Tried to order them from the brunch menu, but a lot of items were sold out which is a good sign! That tells me that they typically make fresh and seasonal items.
My wife ordered the hot mess burger. I ordered the music city chicken sandwich. And my kids share chicken tenders and fries. We also had duck wings as an appetizer!
So I wasn’t wild about the duck wings, but I’m not holding that against them. It was my first time ever having them so I don’t really have anything to judge them with. Onion rings, french fries, and macaroni and cheese for our sides all phenomenal mac & cheese was probably a 10 out of 10!
Portions generally are huge and generous! What I wasn’t wild about it was the service it’s a small place and we just felt very unattended. Had to wait for refills. Also seen waitresses on their phone the entire time.
I would definitely come back and update this review after I have brunch!
We enjoyed our evening @ The Fork ‘N’Cork .. The food was delicious & the Service was also .. Did not get the name of the hostess- but she was sure on top of her game … very friendly, helpful to her team mates- bussing tables - on this Friday night… it started to get busy .. get there early.. it was so hot out… hard to sit outside.. and the hostess was very accommodating.. our server .. was Bailey .. also … really on top of it ! She gave us great service.. very attentive… the food was great- and very reasonably priced! Will be back sooner than later !
I give this stop a 5 out of 5.
I haven't had this kind of service and hospitality from a place in a long time. The bar tender, Katie, was sweet and made fantastic drinks and the cooks were on point with their cooking! If you are in the area I HIGHLY recommend this spot for some grub!
We tried several items from the menu but overall we left unimpressed
Brisket side : dry, flavorless and honestly we didn't eat it after a taste
The wellington bites, the only sorta good dish we had here,however after sitting a while in the dish it gets soggy, and the meat overcooked. So take it out into your plate but don't burn yourself.
Corned beef hash platter, bread was good, meat was good, missing veggies like onion and peppers imo, little over cooked eggs as well not runny .
The cheese appetizer we were hoping would be melting gooey cheese was actually just hard rubbery / crunchyish cheese that was rough to cut and really covered in oil. NOT DIPPABLE at all.
Service was good.
2,500 reviews can’t be wrong! This place is always amazing. They have delicious and unique specials and make everything fresh in-house. We have dined here numerous times over the years and brought family and friends with us and never have I heard a negative comment. Tonight’s special was chicken fried chicken with sawmill gravy. It was the perfect blend of savory, spice and crispy that made me need to post about it. The space is intimate which adds to its character and charm.
Absolute best wings I’ve ever had. Fall off the bone with the most delicious buffalo sauce. Even better: they were only $0.75/ea on Monday afternoon! Can’t get better than that! Definitely check them out if you’re in downtown!
Note: the seating is limited, so if you have a large party there might be a wait or you’ll need to sit outside.
Cozy brick interior and fantastic food! It's a small space, so seating can be an issue and reservations are recommended for dinner. A small selection of beers on tap and some interesting mixed drinks, but everything on the food menu is worth a try! The burgers come highly recommended and the wings are fantastic. We also loved the brussel sprouts.
15Catch
Permanently Closed
expensive
Seafood restaurant
Vegetarian restaurant
Catch is a restaurant in Wilmington that offers a contemporary dining experience with a focus on seafood. The establishment boasts a nautical-themed backdrop and features a bar. The chefs at Catch, including James Beard semi-finalists for Best Chef: Southeast, are known for their creative take on local seafood, using fresh ingredients from small-scale farms and fishermen. Additionally, the restaurant offers Neapolitan-style woodfired pizza and dishes inspired by Spanish, Italian, and New Orleans flavors.
Impressed! Very impressed.
We ate here last night with a party of 8 of us. The menu is not extensive, offering just a selection of several seafood dishes and a choice of ribs wirh fried shrimp. There were also a few apps and 3 salads. We pretty much ordered everything. There was not a single miss among the variety of dishes. Every single bite of every dish was nothing short of perfection. The fried seafood was lightly battered with a balance of salt and spice. Even the ribs were spot on. Catch has to be on your list if you are in the area or make the drive just for this experience. It's that good!
Neil F — Google review
Catch was the highlight of our trip to Wilmington. Every dish we had was incredible, from the table bread with that delicious sauce to the tempura lobster. The service was also great. Everyone was very kind and if we asked for anything tried to make it happen for us. We had a couple of cocktails as well and they were both delicious. Was I surprised when I looked up that the chef was on Top Chef? No, I was not. 10/10.
Dish specifics
- The crab cakes truly don’t have filler. Fresh, delicious, and the mashed potatoes are velvety and pair with the lobster sauce impeccably
- The ribs are fall of the bone tender, the sauce is flavorful and delicious and the sides are great. We asked for hot sauce with the collards cause we wanted a little kick and the staff gave us a heads up it wasn’t really spicy if we liked our collards that way. We got the shrimp grilled and the way you could taste the smokiness on them, plus perfect texture, loved it.
- The tempura lobster is a dish I will think about for a while. I honestly was a little skeptical of the flash fry of the lobster but that texture was PERFECT. The tempura was light but added a fantastic crunch, and the pasta with it was so rich and yummy.
- We finished out with the sticky bun cake and it was so yummy. We asked for milk to go with it and while they dont have that on the menu they made it happen for us
Upon arriving this little restaurant doesn’t look like much on the outside, but inside is a gorgeous fine dining setting that feels cozy and luxurious. This was one of the best meals I’d ever had in my life. The food was clearly made with care by a chef that knows flavor, texture, and presentation. Our server, Robert, was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. Next time I find myself in Wilmington I will definitely be dining here again.
I ordered the fried okra appetizer and tempura lobster with broccoli and macaroni. 11/10 recommend!
This seafood restaurant is absolutely outstanding! The service is attentive and professional, the food is fresh and full of flavor, and the drinks are just as impressive. Everything about the experience feels refined and high-class, from start to finish. If you’re looking for a place that delivers excellence in every detail, this is the perfect choice.
This hidden jewel was recommended to us by a local merchant. We were delightfully impressed by the cuisine. Don’t let the store front fool you. Behind their doors is an award winning chef and her perfectly balanced pastry chef of a daughter. This place is a must visit!!
I've been wanting to come here for awhile. It was so good. Love the atmosphere, music very cozy. Service was phenomenal our server Amy totally on it. Every component of the dishes was delicious, from the bread, salad dressing etc. Highly recommend.
April 19, 2025:
Last night we had reservations at the first place we visited for dinner 5 years ago when we still lived in Lumberton! A James Beard nominated chef and much more. After we moved here 3 years ago we went back and it became our go to restaurant for special occasions!
Celebrating our anniversary we returned here for a great dinner starting with fancy drinks followed by Octopus Mofongo and Oysters on the half shell. My wife had Soft shell Crab and I had Grouper! Dessert was Butter Milk Pie made by the owners daughter!
The creativity of the Chefs and the quality of the entrees is always top notch and complemented by the staff. Our serverJen and other servers team up to make sure the evening was a great success!
Prior visit: Dinner at Catch last night started with a complimentary champagne with blueberries followed by a Manhattan for me and Vodka Martini for my husband followed by a dozen oysters from 3 different locations, Grouper special for me and Tuna for my husband then a crème brûlée to share! Our server Robert was great and this restaurant is our favorite go to place for special events. The quality of the food and ambiance of this restaurant is not matched in Wilmington.
Prior experiences: Went to "Catch" after 4 years. One of the first places we visited when living in Lumberton and on a vacation weekend. James Beard Award winner and worth the visit! Started with Smokey Old Fashion and Martini with Blue Cheese Olives and 2 different oysters!
My wife had ribs and shrimp with sweet potato brûlée and collards and I had Drunkin Noodles with egg plant, Bok Choy and lobster.
Came from out of town on the suggestions of a friend. I was amazed and excited to hear the specials includes grilled mofongo octopus and ahi tuna with wasabi mashed potatoes. The drink was the day was a watermelon crush with local tequila. It was the best drink I’ve had in a very long time! The food, drinks were outstanding!! The service was very kind and knowledgeable. The food was so darn good!!!
I’ll definitely be back.
6623 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28405, USA•
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affordable
Seafood restaurant
Central American restaurant
Latin American restaurant
Ceviches is a popular Panamanian restaurant in Wilmington, known for its Latin-inspired cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant originally started as a small cafe but quickly expanded due to its warm reception. The menu features traditional Latin American dishes like ropa vieja and arroz con pollo, alongside innovative offerings such as langoustine cakes and mojo-rubbed ribs. However, the highlight remains the selection of citrus-cured raw fish, particularly the irresistible ceviche.
Absolutely blown away with the quality, freshness, presentation and service. We were recommended this place by a fishing guide, and the recommendation did not disappoint. The ceviches were excellent. The guacamole is incredible. The watermelon salad is one of the best dishes I’ve had in a while. All around, this is the best dinner I’ve ever had the WB area.
Scott H — Google review
Ceviche’s in Wilmington was a great stop for lunch en route to Kure Beach. We visited on a Saturday afternoon, and the place wasn’t busy.
For food, we got:
Caribbean Fried Oysters: The cornmeal oysters were delectable and went well with the aioli that came with it.
Mango Guacamole: Chips and flavorful guacamole with bits of mango in it made for a wonderful snack too. The chili powder on top elevated the flavor too! They were kind enough to restock our chips.
Blackened Mahi Mahi Tacos: The Mahi-mahi fish was cooked perfectly and the slaw, guacamole and lime crema were added in just the right proportion. It made for an excellent and delicious entree. The accompanying coconut rice tasted fresh.
Langoustine Roll: Imagine a soft hotdog filled with langoustine ceviche, fresh arugula and pickled jalapeño—it tasted delicious and was another great entree.
The drinks—Fresca ensalada and the Tropical Lightning IPA—provided just the right kick accompanying the meal.
We sat on the back patio—which was a bit uncomfortable with the sunlight directly streaming down the glass panes. We realised later that we should’ve sat inside instead.
Their other menu items looked interesting and piquant too, ranging from empanadas to soups, salads, and tacos. The Panamanian vibe is in the air too, which is what they rightly advertise themselves as.
Restrooms were clean, and parking was available outside. Our server was kind enough to check on us multiple times. Overall, we enjoyed our time at Ceviche’s, and highly recommend it!
Ceviche’s Restaurant was an amazing dining experience! The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented, every dish we tried was delicious. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were friendly, attentive, and genuinely made us feel welcome. It’s clear they take pride in both their food and service. Highly recommend this spot to anyone visiting Wrightsville Beach. Definitely one of the best meals we had during our trip!
Great experience overall, will definitely be back. This was our first time here and every dish was great. From the cocktails to the ceviche and the main dishes, it was a great authentic experience.
We have family from Costa Rica and this Panamanian fair had some parallels as expected.
Will post more photos next time :)
This place was all around phenomenal. Service was great, food was even better. One of our new favorite restaurants ever. Empanadas are insanely good, ceviches are also delicious and the blackened scallops were butter. Good cocktails too. Really nothing to knock here. Great work people we will surely return!
Great little place with unique food and atmosphere. Had jerk shrimp, and beignets. My wife had scallops and pork belly and flan. It was all very tasty, perfectly cooked and well presented
Our experience was good our entrées stole the show they were the best. I believe our appetizers could have been better. Food was fresh flavor was lacking. Out of all the ceviche, I believe the mango was the best one and the picture it’s the one to the far left. The one in the middle to the right was my second favorite then the one beside the mango to the left is my third, and I did not care for the one to the far right it was watery no flavor for me. The empanadas were OK. I probably should’ve tried a different one other than chicken. What made the empanadas good was the sauce to me I like it when a sauce elevates a meal and takes it to the next level. Luckily, the sauce made it good because it was average in my opinion. Now the fried brussels sprouts they will vinegar strong. However, once you take that cashew sauce and mix it well throughout the food, it was actually a perfect pair. I believe they balanced each other out and I actually enjoyed it. We should have ordered an entrée for an appetizer because I thought my dish was good the jerk skewers, the spice and savoriness from the shrimp was amazing and when you pair it with that sweet, savory curry as you can see in the pictures, I couldn’t wait to take a bite. The aroma was calling my name my. Now my date she had seabass and she let me have a bite. I almost told the waiter to bring me another plate of that if you’re looking for a dish to wow you get the Seabass. Sangria was great. I forgot to take a picture of my second drink you can’t go wrong with their cocktails. I will try this place again.
Jess was very attentive, welcoming and made a delicious meal an even more enjoyable experience. I asked her to make a spicy margarita with mezcal and it might have been the best I've had. Not to detract from their food though, this is one of the best menus in town. Ceviche's is great!
7210 Wrightsville Ave, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA•
17Savorez
affordable
Latin American restaurant
Restaurant
Savorez is a vibrant restaurant in downtown Wilmington, offering Latin American fusion cuisine in a cozy and colorful setting. The name "Savorez" is derived from the Spanish word for flavors, reflecting the delicious food and drinks served here. Executive chef Sam Cahoon combines southern cuisine with Latin American influences to create mouthwatering dishes that pair perfectly with the restaurant's rotating wine selection and craft cocktails.
Great food. Loved the goat cheese and sweet potato spread they refer to as a 'guacamole'. I was here three years ago with my wife and again last month with my father. Will vome back next time in town. Good cocktails.
Keith O — Google review
Food was very good and although the portions were not hugh neither were the prices. I think that the value was absolutely there. I went with some friends for brunch on a Sunday around 10:30 and had no wait when we arrived for a group of 5. It is a relatively small place inside. Food came out very quickly as well.
I try to hit up Savorez every time I'm in Wilmington which is regrettably not nearly as often as I'd like too. The first time I ate at Savorez was truly a life changing experience and it was all thanks to the guacamole sampler. Up until this moment guacamole was one thing.. mashed avocados with some stuff in it (obviously the stuff differs from recipe to recipe so I'm just saying stuff to be simple). Savorez turned my whole idea of what guacamole could be though. Sweet potato and goat cheese guacamole??? I'm sorry... what??? That wasn't on my bingo card for the day and I didn't even realize how much I was missing in life until I had my first bite. If you're in Wilmington I'd say Savorez is an easy recommendation.
My wife and I went to Savorez in downtown Wilmington and were blown away yet again. Tom is such an incredible chef—he truly knocks it out of the park every single time.
The bacon jam on the tapas BLT is absolutely out of this world, and the char on the jerk chicken was just perfection. Every dish feels so thoughtfully crafted and packed with flavor.
Beyond the food, the service is always top-notch. Our server Stephen was so attentive, best service we have received in a long time. Also the atmosphere is warm, vibrant, and welcoming. This restaurant is fantastic from start to finish, and the chefs absolutely rock. Highly recommend!!!!!
Wow, wow, and wow! Amazingly fresh food with wonderful recommendations from our waiter Steven. We chose the 3 specials: Ceviche, grouper and mahi-mahi. Beautifully presented and we finished every bite. I am celiac and ate here with 0 issues. Fantastic O.G margaritas. HIGHLY recommend 👌
We love finding spots like this! Friendly service and delicious authentic food made fresh. It's a small place but we are able to fit all 7 of us at a table comfortably. The art around the restaurant is beautiful. The vibe is very chill and laid back. They were playing some r&b songs, very chill💓.
It's kid friendly, but there were no kids' menus. They were very accommodating though. I'd probably go here again on a date night without the children. The food was the bomb 💣 😋 I'll post pictures. I got the Yucaa fries and vegetarian toastada. I enjoyed everything.
Some of the most flavorful food your taste buds will ever experience. Had the scallops this past weekend and wow what a treat. Cozy and comfy atmosphere here with friendly service and full bar. Check specials for extra mouth watering goodness. And ask for Steven.
Absolutely amazing food, service, and vibe at Savorez.
We got one of the yummiest Black beans soup we have ever had (not pictured), the beef steak, the blackened tuna, and the chocolate mousse. Every single dish deserved top rating 10/10. Absolutely fenomenal and beatiful place.
402 Chestnut St #4026, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
18manna
expensive
American restaurant
Bar
Cocktail bar
Manna is a sophisticated restaurant in Wilmington, offering a romantic ambiance and an extensive wine list. The chef, Carson Jewell, showcases his culinary artistry using locally sourced ingredients to create dishes like braised pork shank with sweet-potato puree and pan-seared Virginia scallops with parsnip puree. The restaurant has received the AAA Four Diamond Award and prides itself on sourcing ingredients from local farmers, fishermen, and ranchers for big flavors on every plate.
If you're looking for an unforgettable dining experience, this restaurant is an absolute must-visit! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warmth and hospitality, and our server Alayna truly made the evening special. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the menu, answering every question we had with confidence, and her recommendations were spot on. We trusted her completely, and she did not disappoint – each dish was a revelation.
The food itself was out of this world – fresh, creative, and expertly prepared. Every bite was a delightful surprise, showcasing the kind of quality and innovation you don't often find. It was honestly the best meal I've ever had.
The atmosphere was just as exceptional. It felt cozy and inviting, so much so that we ended up staying for four hours, savoring every moment. I took my mom out for a girls' night, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. We had the most wonderful time, and we’re already looking forward to returning to see what’s new on the menu.
Thank you to everyone at the restaurant for making our night so memorable. We can't wait to come back!
Ryane P — Google review
Go here!!!!
oh my manna is a new favorite for us. we got the mezcal drinks to start and they were delicious. the mezcal doesn’t hit you in the face and the drink wasn’t overly sweet. perfectly balanced!
we started with the oyster which might have been the star on the show. we got the NC crab dish with cream corn. the crab tasted super fresh and light. we also got the zucchini bread pudding which was essentially a version of biscuits and gravy but 10x better. the sauce was so flavorful and reminded me of a vodka sauce.
for entrees we got the pork chop and 1/2 chicken. the peach combo with the charred flavor of the pork was 10/10. the chicken had a BBQ raspberry type sauce and the pickles and pickled onions took it to the next level.
every single dish we had was PACKED with flavor. service was fantastic and the atmosphere was super cute. this is now a wilmington staple for us!
If you’re looking for accessible, innovative, unique dining in Wilmington, look no further. Manna is fine, fine dining at a price point that can’t be beat. Every dish served was almost as beautifully crafted as the melody of flavors it contained. This is a kitchen that is clearly consistent and thoughtful. Head to Manna for a sure bet. Thank you especially to our server Adam!
Absolutely top notch. I had an unforgettable meal starting with oysters - one with a quail egg, and then the most amazing shrimp dish I’ve ever tasted. My friend had a Bibimbap style eggplant dish and then ordered the shrimp after she tasted mine. Both were incredible. The bartender fashioned us cocktails that were not on the menu based on what we said we liked.
I’ve been keeping up with Manna,the Owner and the Chef for awhile now. My wife and I have been planning this trip and dinner for 2 years. Everything was phenomenal, the care and attention to every detail was evident from walking in the door.
We arrived 20 minutes early,were sat anyway and given water and menus. Our server was actually the manager Steph,playing double duty and playing it well. Knowing we’re on our honeymoon, she was attentive and informative but left us plenty of alone time to enjoy and relax as well. She asked questions, waxed poetic about the menu and the team and told stories. Concluding our meal she introduced us to the Sommelier who was every bit as gracious and amazing. The food matched the service, the bread was exquisite..the asparagus with speck I could have eaten plate after plate of and my duck breast was perfect.
It was worth the 2 year wait to come and experience..it will not be 2 years before we return.
Bravo!
After a spontaneous recommendation from a friendly stranger on the streets of Wilmington, Manna completely exceeded every expectation. Despite arriving close to closing time, we were greeted with genuine warmth and smiles, with absolutely no sense of being rushed. The restaurant itself is charming and sultry, with décor that sets a perfect, intimate mood.
The staff went above and beyond in every way. They were generous with conversation, taking the time to explain menu options and suggest pairings. Both the hostess and our server offered effusive, personal compliments about how much they enjoyed interacting with us as a couple, making the experience feel incredibly personal. To top it off, the bartender even provided tableside service! Another staff member kindly offered to take photos of us, adding a thoughtful, memorable touch.
Our meals were creative, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. Manna was the perfect way to cap off a romantic stroll through downtown Wilmington, allowing us to fully soak in the city’s charm. We left already planning our next visit. This place is a true gem!
Manna was absolutely phenomenal to work with for our rehearsal dinner and welcome party. From start to finish, they went above and beyond to make sure everything went smoothly and that our guests had an amazing experience. Leading up to the event, they were responsive over email and happy to do in person walk throughs to make sure every detail was perfect. You could tell how much they genuinely cared about creating a great evening for us, which made the entire planning process so easy and enjoyable. I reached out to many establishments downtown before choosing Manna, and their pricing was by far the fairest, especially considering that the quality of their food is well above most. They were one of the only venues that could comfortably accommodate both a sit down dinner and a welcome party, with a reasonable food and beverage minimum and only a modest rental fee. The day of the event, their team was professional and organized, handling everything seamlessly from music and slideshow setup to service. The food was truly exceptional, fresh, seasonal, and some of the best we have had anywhere in Wilmington.
I cannot say enough about how positive the entire experience was. It truly felt like the team cared as much about our event as we did. I hope to find another reason to host something there in the future, and I encourage anyone planning an event or simply looking for a memorable dinner to support this amazing local restaurant.
Second time dining at Manna. 5+ stars. Excellent service, very personable and polite staff and great ambience. The food….. the food is incredible. The 16oz ribeye was the tastiest piece of beef my wife and I have ever eaten, and the duck fat fries it comes with are perfection.
We shared 3 appetizers. All 3 were amazing, but the mushroom (run forage, run) was the best thing that we have ever eaten. Would consider going back just to get 6 orders of that.
Will definitely be going back.
123 Princess St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Bar & grill
Reel Cafe is a popular spot located on Front Street in downtown Wilmington, offering a vibrant atmosphere with live music and karaoke. The venue features a brick-lined space with a rooftop bar where visitors can enjoy specialty drinks and pub grub while listening to local bands. Additionally, the area surrounding the cafe is filled with charming boutiques and curio shops, providing plenty of shopping opportunities along the River Walk, Front, and Market Streets.
Steak was cooked to perfection and the mashed potatoes are to die for!!! Pleasantly surprised bc a good steak is hard to come by at a cafe/bar! The oyster poboy was also delicious with a heaping amount of oysters and fries! Bathroom is on 2nd floor and you must take the stairs. They have 3 levels that includes covered outdoor seating, a dance floor and rooftop bar! I’ll be back to enjoy the vibes-looks like they have a lot of fun!
Davis D — Google review
I enjoyed my oyster po boy with Remoulade sauce and fries. Our server was excellent, attentive and very helpful. It was raining, so we ate inside, which was fine. In a past visit, I can attest to the charm of the outdoor area.
Came here looking for a spot opened past 10 who had oysters. I was not disappointed! The food took some time but it wasn’t horrible. Drinks were delicious and the One Tree Hill decorations made me smile!
Decided to have dinner before our favorite band played rooftop.
Waited almost an hour for appetizers. Service is extremely slow. Ordered our food, waited forever, I didn't receive a part of my meal until I was done eating. It was garlic toast. There were barely any people in the restaurant & our server seemed over whelmed. The food is mediocre at best, compared to other restaurants.
First time here and we really enjoyed it. We had drinks and apps - crab dip, buffalo shrimp, calamari, and onion rings. All very good. The bartender, Eli, was great! We will definitely be back next time we're in town.
I work retail in a business located near Reel. Ryan, Katie, and the staff are here frequently to buy ice or sodas and snacks. Even though they do not usually deliver, they bring me food as I work alone. Their wings are the best!
The idea of having food, especially late, is a good idea with the volume of partiers that are downtown on the weekends. They have several styles of hot dogs on the late night menu from 10pm until 2am.
Reel also has an awesome security staff. There is not many problems that go on in other places downtown.
Painfully slow service. We were some of the only ones in there and it took 20 minutes to get our drinks, only half came out. By the time the drinks arrived they weren't hardly cold. Food was sub par, but decent enough. Tab took forever to come too. Staff is mostly young, likely not trained enough to be efficient / quick. Would hate to see this place on a busy day.
All of our meals were delicious, as well as the appetizers. Everything came out in a timely manner. It's also in such a great area to stroll around.
100 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Pizza restaurant
Cocktail bar
Italian restaurant
Pasta shop
Benny's Big Time Pizzeria is a charming Italian restaurant located in the South Front District near historic downtown Wilmington. The airy, rustic-chic dining space offers a Southern coastal twist on Italian cuisine, with dishes made from fresh seafood and local ingredients.
Benny’s is INCREDIBLE! Fresh and house made ingredients, carefully curated details, amazing service and ambience….and the gluten-free pizza is killer!! I’ve searched high and low for a decent gluten-free pizza crust, and Benny’s Detroit style outdoes them all by FAR. It’s just the best ever. We finished dinner with the flourless chocolate cake (torta caprese)! Benny’s is a must try- we were so impressed!!
Kelley M — Google review
I called ahead because I was going to try to take my special needs 10 year old daughter (struggles with waiting), the man who answered the phone was super nice and asked when we could get there, they held a table for over 20 minutes to accommodate us. With my daughter's gluten free dietary restriction we found the Detroit style gluten free pizza here a while back, we wanted to make the trip again. It was as amazing as the first trip, and worth every penny. The staff was so sweet to my little girl, we made a huge mess and even ate at the adjacent table, but they were very understanding and sweet. When it's time for a good GF pizza, we will ALWAYS come back here. Great job all around, and thank you for accommodating us. Hostess, server, manager, everyone in the back, amazing job. Best gluten free pizza in all of Wilmington, easily.
Great place for some of the best Pizza in the area. True story fish and chips on Friday are the best hidden meal in the area. Salads are🤌
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria has been on my list for a while so I was excited to give this place a try. Since this was my first time ordering I’m going to be a bit lenient just in case they just had an off day, but this review is also brutally honest! I ordered the Tony Pepperoni w/Calabrian Chili Pepper and asked for it to be extra crispy. The bottom of the pizza didn’t seem extra crispy, and when you picked up the slice you can tell that it wasn’t indeed extra crispy. The sauce and toppings had good flavor. I’m a huge pizza lover, and a good pizza always starts with the crust & sauce, and the “NOT” crispy crust is the main reason why I’m giving this place a solid 3 ⭐️ out of 5 ⭐️ rating. It definitely wasn’t worth the $26 I paid for a 14” pizza. I’ve tried 4 other pizzerias, this being the 5th, around the ILM/Wilmington area and this place would be tied with 4th & 5th place out of all of those other restaurants. Service seemed to be fast & friendly, which was a definite plus! I don’t want to be too harsh, but maybe I caught this place on a down day.
As someone who frequently orders Bennys Togo, my portion of Brussel sprouts this evening was unacceptable for the price. Anytime I have previously ordered Brussels the entire to go box is full. If you order in person the portion is double if not triple. The quality is inconsistent for how expensive the price is. My pizza was great but this portion of Brussel sprouts is offensive.
I ordered a pineapple pizza, and I must say it turned out to be the worst food experience of my life; it was so unpleasant that I genuinely began to question whether the chef had ever actually tasted this creation before deciding it was suitable to sell, and that thought alone made the experience even more frustrating. After forcing myself to take only one slice, I could not bear to continue and ended up leaving the rest behind; it was the first time in my life that I found myself cursing out loud while eating, which tells you just how unbearable it was. This is truly the kind of dish that requires the chef to sit down, taste it carefully, and reflect deeply on whether such a recipe should ever reach customers; it left me thinking that no one who values flavor could possibly stand by it. Normally I do not bother to leave reviews because I consider them tedious and time-consuming; however, this was such a nightmarish meal that I felt compelled to share my experience here, as it was too shocking and disappointing to remain silent.
Second best pizza I’ve ever had. 1st was in Sally’s in Stamford, Connecticut. Best pizza I’ve had in NC. The menu reminded me of menus in Connecticut.
Benny's Big Time paid off for sure. Dined on a crowded Friday night with 8pm reservations. Seems like a celebration-type restaurant, with lots of large groups. Downside is the volume was really loud and hard to have a conversation.
Chicken parm bites and salad to start. Dee-lish. All the pizza look amazing and we ordered two to share, along with the rigatoni. Everything was delicious and the service was top notch. It's a must visit place and we'll be back for sure.
206 Greenfield St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
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affordable
American restaurant
Seafood restaurant
Smoke on the Water is a restaurant located in Marina Village, Wilmington, offering an unparalleled riverfront view and abundant indoor/outdoor seating. The establishment features hospitable bars inside and outside where patrons can enjoy craft beer or cocktails with friends. In addition to the scenic views, visitors can also take advantage of shady verdant canopy and gather around the fire pit during cooler months. The restaurant often hosts local musicians on specific days of the week, providing a lively atmosphere for guests to enjoy while dining.
Great restaurant! We have been going to Smoke on the water for several years but it has been a while. We heard the experience had gone down hill. It has not ! The drinks were excellent, the food was delicious and the service was outstanding. And of course , the view was beautiful. Highly recommended!
Brian Q — Google review
I had the best brisket sandwich and macaroni salad I think I’ve ever had. (Sorry mom) The brisket sandwich had onion rings, sweet peppers and a dipping sauce.
The macaroni salad wasn’t overly sauced and had dill pickle in it.
Liz had the shrimp tacos that were really good also.
That was their lunch. The waitress said to come back for dinner, it was even better.
The view was really beautiful also.
Really yummy food and beautiful view! While they have changed their menu recently, we really enjoyed the meat loaf and catch of the day. The menu on their website is the current one and I would recommend coming here! Also nice walkways after you get done eating and fun live music!
Weird experience. Delicious food, went there on a date and ordered the maple fashioned. As a heads up, it’s basically a $16 apple juice with a little bit of bourbon. Asked to have it swapped out with a regular old-fashioned.
Wasn’t too surprised to see that I was charged for both, what I was surprised at was the fairly hostile attitude by management when I provided a courtesy call later on just to give some feedback without needing ti go to google to leave a review.
It’s tough because I live close and love Smoke but I don’t need to feel that way.
Went here for a lil date night! Has a cute patio! Our waitress was very kind & helpful. The food was better than expected and we loved it!
Oh my gosh the Chefs soecial.... muah 💋 yummy Beet salad, melt in your mouth delicious. Appetizer shrimp 🍤 nachos. They place a shrimp on each individual chip with guacamole and a sauce 😋
Great place on the water for beautiful sunsets and nice outdoor seating with fire pits. New Chef and the food was superb!! A wedding after party was great as well and we headed to Smoke (on the water)
This was a very pleasant experience. We only had appetizers and they were good!! However I would give the giant pretzel 5 STARS!! It was so so delicious. Looking forward to visiting again very soon. ☺️
3704 Watercraft Ferry Ave, Wilmington, NC 28412, USA•
affordable
Bar & grill
Restaurant
Anne Bonny's Bar and Grill is a unique dining experience located on a floating barge along the Cape Fear River in Wilmington. This one-of-a-kind restaurant offers regional seafood, local beer, and live music, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. The menu features casual bites like fried pickles, seafood platters, burgers, and shareable appetizers.
This place was a great way to end our day trip. I had the tropical chicken with the Carolina corn salad, and the other dishes are the crab cake rubens and the Yo Ho Po' boy! We all enjoyed our food. It is right on the water, and you can see boats go by along with planes preparing to land overhead depending on the day. It is a very fun atmosphere. Lots to do around the area as well. The service was good as well. If you are in the area, give this place a try!
Jeff — Google review
Surprisingly delicious food and great service. I went in with mediocre expectations and really enjoyed my meal!
Got a gluten free bun for my burger and a bull city cider. It was no extra charge for a gluten free bun! Burger was juicy and a good value. The vibe was also wonderful - looking over the water and listening to the music!
We absolutely loved being on the water at sunset — the view is stunning and the atmosphere is so relaxing. Sitting back with a sweet tea in hand, watching the sun dip below the horizon, was pure bliss.
The food was fantastic, and the staff was very nice and welcoming. Our only minor hiccup was being seated in a spot just out of our server’s view, so there were a few times we needed things like refills and had to wave someone down. No big deal, just something to note.
Overall, Anne Bonny’s is a wonderful spot to enjoy great food, incredible views, and a beautiful waterfront experience. Highly recommend if you’re in Wilmington!
One of the locals recommended this place and she was not short! I love water, boats, good food and good drinks…this place has it all. I ordered the buffalo shrimp (with blue cheese crumbles and celery) and it was the best buffalo shrimp I have had in a long time. Ladies and gentlemen, the vibe is here at Anne Bonny’s. This will forever be one of my fav places
Went here strolling on the riverwalk. I would say the food here is mediocre, nothing to rave on the way home about. Had the Barge Nachos, which were ok. The meat in it wasn’t the greatest, I kept have a weird aftertaste with it. As for my main meal was the Fish & Chips. The Grouper strips were really good. The fries were just ok. And likewise for the Carolina Corn Salad. the Grouper strips were the saving grace for the food. I will say the restaurant has got a good look to it and it’s right up on the water which is a huge addition.
Old river boat turned restaurant. Nothing fancy, open are on the river walk but the food and service were great. Hubs had the grouper sandwich and fries. Sandwich was huge and plenty of hot fries. I had the salmon BLT and homemade chips. Tasty and way more than I could eat!
Super fun atmosphere, unique, our waitress was super sweet and attentive, and the food was great. I had awesome crab cakes AND we ordered cheese curds. Ok, I'm from the midwest, and these are the best cheese curds I've ever had. Go figure.
We sat at a table right next to the water. The water views are great!! Highly recommend!
Thanks to Chat we stopped in here. The ambiance couldn’t have been better. What an incredible view and a super cute little town. The food was good but it’s not easy to mess up chicken strips. The seasonal street corn was awesome.
106 S Water St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Restaurant
Bar
Shark Bar and Kitchen, located in Wrightsville Beach, offers a bright and airy dining experience with beautiful views of the ocean. The restaurant serves carefully prepared coastal cuisine using locally and sustainably sourced seafood, meats, and produce. Their menu features beach bar favorites such as blackened mahi mahi tacos, crab cake sandwiches, firecracker shrimp, fresh Flounder au Gratin, Tuna Poke from the raw bar, and their signature Shark Bar Burger with secret sauce.
Had a great experience at this cute beach restaurant! Staff was friendly, we didn’t wait long for food, and everything we ate was fantastic! Our group got the firecracker shrimp tacos, fish tacos, fish sandwich, Nashville hot chicken sandwich, shark burger, charred corn tomato salad, etc. and everything was great!! Would go back.
Meris K — Google review
Sharks Bar is such a great spot—really close to the beach, which makes it super convenient. The food and drinks were awesome. I’d definitely recommend any of the margaritas and the tacos. The shrimp and grits deserve a special shout out—they were seriously so good.
Tastes like summer. The Lobster Roll and Spicy Texas Margarita were an absolute dream. I’ve been manifesting a meal like this for a month. Compliments to your team.
While I will say, they where very very busy and backed up; they need more staff and more training on how to handle it. Firstly- the menu on their website is wrong and they told us to “order off the google menu” which was limited and we still didn’t know what they actually had. The hostess who took our pickup order, wrote down the order correctly but then punched it in wrong and didn’t go over the order before having us pay and wait. We were told it’d be 30 minutes then when we checked about 30 minutes later the kitchen was so backed up they hadn’t even started the food. About 25 minutes after that we got our food, we got home and one whole meal was missing. We were close so we went back and found out she had typed in the order wrong and weren’t charged and the food wasn’t made.
Now the food: probably a 6/10. The tater tot’s were way overdone and too crunchy. I’m personally glad there was so much lobster on the lobster roll, but it was difficult to eat as a sandwich as the roll was way too small. The avocado spread wasn’t smushed enough- there where chunks of avocado that where too big to eat with the tortilla chips. The salad was disappointing they didn’t cut the leaves at all making it hard to mix and the Parmesan crisps were hard but somehow soggy at the same time.
Best shrimp tacos of my life. Large portion of shrimp perfectly fried, not too much breading but a great crunch. Firecracker sauce has a ton of flavor and not too much spice, 10/10!!!!
Stopped in to grab a light lunch after the beach and was blown away by quality of food. One of the best salads I've ever eaten, and worth every penny.
AMAZING vibe, food, and people!!
This woman owned restaurant was the highlight of my trip to the pier!! We were greeted, seated, and served by great women while we were here and felt at home! The environment was comfortable, calm, and inviting!! The food is AMAZING SO FRESH DELICIOUS AND JUST WOW! I got the mahi tacos during happy hour and they were amazing, the fish was fresh and cooked to perfection, the tortillas were easy to bite through and the chips that came with were delightfully crispy! I got a pineapple juice with it that was fresh and sweet!
My friends both got the Smash Burgers and COULDNT PUT THEM DOWN IM SERIOUS they literally didn’t eat or drink anything until the burger was done LOL the bun stayed fresh and didn’t get soggy, the meat was juicy, and the burger sauce was DEVINE the fries were perfectly crispy too!!
If and when I come back to Wilmington, NC, THIS IS MY FIRST STOP BEFORE MY HOTEL
Great meals and service!!
Went three times, two for take out and one eating in. Both takes outs were “Caesar salad” and firecracker shrimp. One take out included a burger. Salad comes with full lettuce leaves to eat like finger food and dip in house made dressing., delicious. Crispy Parmesan pieces top it. Better than croutons.
Firecracker shrimp has a mild spice and dips into homemade sauce.
Two patty burger was juicy and shareable with the rest of the meal.
They have local Wrightsville beers, our favorite Piping Plover lager.
13 E Salisbury St, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, USA•
cheap
Irish pub
Pub
Slainte Irish Pub is a great place to go and relax with friends while you enjoy traditional Irish cuisine. The atmosphere is welcoming and cozy, and the music is always wonderful. Whether you're looking for an afternoon snack or a full meal, Slainte has something for everyone.
Sláinte Irish Pub is one of those places that just feels right. The vibe is easygoing, the service is great, and the team—especially Liz—is super friendly and always up for a nice chat. We love that it’s pup-friendly too (we even met the cutest baby blue Frenchie one night—what a gorgey!). The music adds to the charm—last time, folks picked Backstreet Boys and Britney, and we jumped in with Bye Bye Bye by NSYNC. Instant bond. Plus, they always have actual football (yep, soccer!) playing, so we’re never missing a good match while having a fun night out. Just an all-around good time.
Karol V — Google review
Atmosphere was great and of course there’s variety for drink options. Every bartender is different but the one we got attended by was a LIAR and a SCAM. After asking us for I.D, my partner bought a mixed drink and I had asked for a cup of water (considering a cup of water was no charge). The woman bartender had then said to me, “the ONLY water we have is liquid death in a can which is $2.” I had then told her no thank you. About 3 minutes after a man comes in and buys an alcohol drink. Along with his drink was a glass filled with ice and what seemed to look as if it were water. My partner had then kindly asked the man if the glass cup with clear liquid was iced water and he responded yes. She then asked if he had gotten charged for the iced water and his response was no. After realizing there was another option for water to be given out for FREE, we looked at the bartender disgustingly and annoyed since she was trying to scam us. Maybe the glass of water was only given if buying an alcoholic drink (something that I did not purchase but my partner did) but the thought could have been treated as if the glass of water could have been for my partner and I to drink since she bought an alcoholic drink. I did not have a problem tipping the woman to fetch me a glass of water for me and my partner to share. Selling to consumers makes sense but to lie and scam someone is WRONG. Whoever gets attended by the woman in this image, be CAREFUL, even if it’s being secure about your payment card and charge transaction! I did not catch her name but the image shows a slight appearance. She can easily be identified as she has a huge mole hanging on her right eyebrow (looking direct). Image also shows the man’s alcohol drink along with his glass of water.
Good small Irish pub. Nothing fancy. Just a great local spot.
Sláinte Irish Pub is everything you want in a true Irish pub—warm, welcoming, and full of good energy. The atmosphere is lively without being overwhelming, and the staff makes you feel like family from the moment you walk in. The drinks are always poured perfectly, the food is hearty and delicious, and the vibe is unbeatable whether you’re stopping in for a casual pint or a full night out.
Yasmine is fantastic. Also I've never had a Guinness pulled with a clover in the top. What a fantastic place to stop in. We'll stocked bar with great atmosphere. Irish music to boot. This is a needle in the haystack along the main strip.
It’s an Irish pub. Proper. They don’t have fancy drinks or a dance floor or hipster beer and that’s what makes it great. It’s small, close-quartered and personable. Bartenders are attentive and friendly and it has some of the cleanest bathrooms downtown. You can sit under the awnings out front and drink or smoke (if you’re into that). The AC and beer is cold. What else do you want?! Just don’t show up on St. Paddy’s thinking it will be quiet.
No place better to meet friends, old & new. A warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Solid little Irish pub with a good Irish Whiskey selection. However no Coors Light, the most popular American Beer in Ireland.
7 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
25Seabird
Seafood restaurant
American restaurant
Southern restaurant (US)
Located in downtown Wilmington, Seabird is a seafood restaurant housed in a historic building with a vacation-like ambiance. The interior features retro white-tiled decor, creating a beachy atmosphere. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, seasonal seafood and local ingredients sourced from small-scale farms and fishermen. With a menu that changes according to the best catches of the sea, Seabird ensures that diners experience the finest flavors of the season.
We got smoked nc catfish + grits, fried shrimp tacos, caesar salad with anchovies, and two eggs with mashed potatoes biscuit and gravy. They started with some type of coffee cake on the house, which was perfectly moderately sweet. Everything from the fish to the veggies was lightly seasoned so you could enjoy the enjoy natural flavors of every ingredient, cooked perfectly, generous portion sizes and presented beautifully! My only complain was the ceasar salad which was so salty I couldn't eat more then 2 bites - they were accepting and thankful for my feedback. They also gave my friends free icecream for their wedding anniversary and accompdated us on a short notice which was very much appreciated since we had a toddler with us. Clean bathrooms is always a plus and no one can beat their location!
Kudos to the chef who was brave enough to hold back on over seasoning and confident in their dishes by allowing their ingredients to shine. It was a heartfelt happy experience. I love that food still had the ability to delightfully suprise me. Thank you! Will definitely return!
Pranali D — Google review
Stumbled across Seabird, looking for some breakfast, and was pleasantly surprised by the corner location and staff and decor. Had brunch that morning, food and drinks were excellent, so we went back for dinner that night! The service was outstanding, some of the most genuinely service-oriented staff that I’ve ever experienced anywhere. And some of the best food we’ve had in Wilmington. We will definitely be back! Highly recommend sitting at the chef’s table, if you can get a seat!
This is THE BEST restaurant in Wilmington. We have been many times both for brunch and dinner, have tried most of the menu, and every single thing has been fantastic. Every dish is thoughtful and perfectly composed. Every staff member we've encountered has been welcoming, helpful, friendly, and fine dining-professional. I rarely complete reviews, but this place deserves recognition - if you haven't tried it, don't hesitate!
Excellent sea trout and beef bavette! Also recommend getting the cheese plate. One or two selections of cheese that come with some great extras, like blueberry compote, honeycomb, marcona almonds, spiced apple sauce, basil etc. So good for only $10-$18! The old fashioned was good but a little light on the poor.
We didn't have a reservation but they were so nice and were able to get us in at 5pm.
Parking on the street was $3 per hour but free after 6:30pm.
Thank you, hope to be back in Wilmington one day.
Had the most amazing brunch/lunch here. Was pleasantly surprised by how delicious the food is here. The oysters tasted to fresh and delicious, the shrimp oysters was so fresh without an oily taste to it, and the burger was sooo good:) I could tell the waiters and chefs but so much attention to detail to the plating and the food. Will come back!
Had a fantastic dinner. Our server, Ryan did a great job. He was friendly and personable and helped answer questions about the menu. He seemed to enjoy his job. We ordered the pork ribs as an appetizer and they were fall off the bone tender and delicious. We ordered the schnitzel swordfish and the catfish plate-- both excellent choices. The ambiance was relaxing and top notch. Highly recommend. Dress up and treat yourself.
From the moment we walked in we were greeted with smiles and warm hospitality. Jack was our server and had great recommendations. We had oysters ( which where the best I have ever had ) drinks and entrees , which where outstanding. Everything was spot on. We will return. Thank you Jack and seabird for making our evening exceptional with great food and excellent service.
Probably the best sit down restaurant in Wilmington.
We made a reservation for Sunday brunch, and glad we did as the restaurant was full, with only bar seating available for non reservation. The group liked the locally caught oysters quite bit, and we loved our fried catfish over grits, pork rib sandwich , and fried grouper and sandwich. The espresso martini was serviceable, although I’d just get a mimosa next time. The fruit galette was also quite nice. Service was a bit slower, but nothing crazy - drinks just took a while to come out.
Overall would highly recommend dining here!
1 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
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cheap
Bar
Sports bar
The Pour House is a trendy bar in downtown Wilmington that stays open until 2 AM every day. With over 100 beers and unique wine choices, it's a great spot for drinks. While they don't serve food, the friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make it a must-visit on any bar hop itinerary. It's known for its military-friendly environment and diverse clientele. Visitors praise the cold drinks, large cider selection, and overall great service at this dive bar gem.
An Unforgettable Experience at The Pour House!
I recently had the pleasure of visiting The Pour House, and I must say, it exceeded every expectation I had. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. The rustic yet modern decor perfectly balances comfort and style, creating a unique ambiance that sets The Pour House apart from any other establishment.
Service:
The staff at The Pour House are nothing short of exceptional. From the friendly host who seated us promptly to the knowledgeable bartender who went out of their way to craft the perfect cocktail, every member of the team contributed to an outstanding experience. Their passion for what they do is evident in their attentiveness and willingness to go the extra mile to ensure each guest has a memorable time.
Drinks:
The drink menu at The Pour House is truly impressive. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a wine lover, or someone who enjoys a well-made cocktail, there’s something here for everyone. The extensive selection of local and international brews is a testament to their commitment to quality and variety. I personally loved their signature cocktails, each one a work of art with balanced flavors that were both innovative and delicious.
Food:
While The Pour House is known for its drinks, the food menu is equally noteworthy. The dishes are creative and beautifully presented, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I tried the [Insert specific dish], and it was absolutely divine! The flavors were bold yet harmonious, and the portion sizes were generous. It’s clear that the kitchen team puts a lot of thought and care into each dish, making dining here a culinary delight.
Ambiance:
The Pour House offers a lively yet relaxed environment, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re there for a casual night out with friends, a romantic dinner, or even a solo visit to unwind, you’ll find that the vibe is just right. The live music on weekends adds an extra layer of entertainment, creating an energetic and enjoyable atmosphere without being overwhelming.
Overall:
The Pour House is more than just a bar or restaurant—it’s an experience. The combination of outstanding service, exceptional drinks, and mouth-watering food, all set within a welcoming and vibrant setting, makes it a must-visit destination. I left The Pour House not only satisfied but also eager to return and explore more of what they have to offer. If you’re looking for a place that delivers on every level, look no further than The Pour House. Highly recommended!
Shad K — Google review
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Hidden Gem in Downtown Wilmington!
If you're in Wilmington and don't stop by The Pour House, you're seriously missing out. This place has that rare mix of chill vibes, great drinks, and just the right kind of energy that makes you want to stay way longer than planned.
The atmosphere? Perfect. It’s got a laid-back, local feel with just enough edge to keep it exciting. Whether you're bar-hopping downtown or just want to post up with friends for the night, The Pour House always delivers. Music is always on point, the bartenders are friendly and fast, and they pour a real drink — none of that watered-down stuff.
They’ve got a solid rotation of craft beers and cocktails that keep things interesting, and the crowd is always fun. Locals love it, but it’s welcoming to out-of-towners too. It’s the kind of place you walk into once and instantly feel like a regular.
Honestly, if you’re looking for the go-to bar in Wilmington with good vibes, great people, and drinks that actually hit — The Pour House is it.
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Let me know if you want to tailor this more to a specific vibe — like a date night, a party crowd, or a chill solo hangout.
One of our first little stops while visiting Wilmington. Alex the bartender was an absolute god send ! Chill dude and great conversation. The crowd of customers matched the vibe too, we met some good people. a night for the books for us. Thank you again, Alex ! 🍻
If you want a place to start or the end the night. Then the rich atmosphere of the pour house is for you! Sorting everything from Ipa’s, to millers, and even ciders the pour house is your place to start. Although it can get packed don’t let that scare you from coming on down and enjoying the energy of having a great time!!
I adore this bar. I love coming down to sex toy bingo it’s so much fun. As a bingo host myself I always love seeing how other people run their games and this one is always a blast. The environment is fun and there isn’t any one style that fits in there. Stay classy😝
This place is the place to go downtown for a great time! Great drinks and even better bartenders! Come down to pour house you wont regret it!
Had the best time at Sex toy bingo!!! The bartenders are incredibly, best drinks ever!!!! Betsy is an incredible host we can’t wait to come back!
Fantastic service, amazing staff, we were very well taken care of and the price was very reasonable. Highly recommend!
27aView
Restaurant
Perched on the seventh floor of Aloft Wilmington, aView Rooftop Bar & Bistro offers both outdoor seating with firepits and an indoor lounge boasting floor-to-ceiling windows. The bar serves up unique craft cocktails like the Purple Heart and Carolina Girl, while providing sweeping views of the Cape Fear River. Guests can expect friendly service and a modern, open atmosphere.
The food at the rooftop bar and the hotel staff were amazing. The apps we ordered were the deviled eggs and brussels, delicious. I tried all the entrees. The chicken was my favorite but they were all so good. We were there at sunset which was gorgeous. I regret not getting any pictures of the food in that golden hour.
Kare — Google review
Top floor bar and grill, with an expansive view, full bar and a short wine list. Service was very good, but the order didn’t get to the kitchen. The server did catch it after awhile. The Lamb Lollipops had a good seasoning on them, were overcooked, but still tender. The Fregola accompaniment is excellent. The Truffle Parm Fries have good flavor, are wafer cut, but come with catsup.
Great view but furniture outside should be replaced. The chicken wings were undercooked. The waitress was great and the drinks were good. Order the smoked old fashioned
Absolutely loved dining here! Fantastic staff, drinks, food and immediately got a table!
Friendly service, fantastic view (7th floor of aLoft hotel), cool vibe. This place was super clean, open and airy. It was sufficient for a birthday drink and nibble.
One star off service. I don’t like to be ignored and made to ask if I should sit, wait to be seated, if there is table service for drinks or bar only to order a drink… etc. It wasn’t busy staff engaging in convo with one another mostly.
The cheese and charcuterie while visually pleasing was lacking. Meats were more like deli meat you would consider for sandwiches. Probably fine for anyone who eats with their eyes. I eat for taste. Cheeses did not have flavor. I can’t make this up. Overall the board did not meet the mark for us.
My wine (Chardonnay) was just okay. There we 2 options on the menu but was told only one was available. Not sure what was poured. Light and almost watery. That light. My husband had a smoked Old Fashioned. No complaints.
As locals this was our first experience with aView. I most likely will return for a second experience to compare but it’s not top of my list given the initial experience.
This indoor/outdoor rooftop spot with a limited view of the Cape Fear River is a convenient place for Aloft guests to go for food and drink at the end of the day. It's a little pricier than other venues on Front Street that are just a five-minute walk away, and the food is varied in quality: the Bison Burger (with salad) in a brioche bun was satisfying and filling; but a salad with a medium-cooked salmon addition was unimpressive, the salmon clearly frozen, tough, and overcooked. There's a reasonable choice of draft beers (can't speak to the cocktails) and, as darkness falls, the flaming patio heaters and tabletops add a bit of magic to the place.
We sat ourselves as suggested by the hostess. No service was provided to us the entire time we patiently waited at our table for more than 20 mins (with the entire restaurant being fairly unoccupied and not busy). Not an offer of water, a menu, nothing. Looks from staff but ignored by all. One waiter came to pick up their tip left from the prior patron and when asked for assistance they simply told us, "continue waiting". They quickly walked away to service other customers that had just seated well after us . Ignoring us like we didn't exist was the same action taken from all the waiters/waitresses who helped everyone but us.
Being the only POC in the bar it was clear we were not welcome there. We got the message and quietly left. As out of towners that visit Wilmington often during the summer, we will never be back to this business to endure this type of non-service. All staff should be replaced but thank you for showing your true colors. Appreciate the transparency! Show me who you are and I'll make an informed decision from there. It can easily be assumed they would've tainted our food/drinks if they had actually serviced us so thank you for the avoidance.
While the menu is small, it has something for most palates. The view is excellent and there are lots of outdoor seating. Service was efficient, for was delicious
501 Nutt St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
28The Husk
affordable
Bar
The Husk is a neighborhood bar located at the corner of Dock and Front streets in downtown. It offers a casual and modern environment, perfect for enjoying drinks with friends or catching a game. The bar provides a wide variety of food and drinks, including delicious cocktails and tasty bites. Whether you prefer spacious indoor seating or a cozy courtyard in the back, The Husk has it all. It's also an ideal spot for St.
Me and my Uncle Arthur along with my cousins watched the game here. We Loved the atmosphere. Had great conversations. The staff delivered a remarkable experience.
Vl C — Google review
had one of the worst bar experiences here. There was throw-up on the actual bar, and I accidentally got it on my shirt. When I asked a bartender (a woman) for water to clean myself up, she dismissed me with, “I’m helping someone else—there’s water over there.” I explained I had vomit on me, and she just asked, “You good?!”
When I asked again, she was rude and unhelpful—meanwhile openly flirting with guys at the bar. Another bartender, thankfully, stepped in and gave me water right away without any issue.
Then she came back and said, “If you’d asked me nicely, I would’ve helped.” At that point, I called out her unprofessional behavior—and she had a bouncer remove me from the bar for being “rude.” I was the one covered in someone else’s vomit. Completely unacceptable. Do better.
This place is hopping. They have the TV volume on for the games and they have multiple games on. Seats are comfortable banquette style with low tables or booths. Menu has items for sharing or for individual meals. Had the beef and lamb gyro and it was delicious. The sauce was just right, both fries and tater tots were good. They provide plenty of ketchup packets that were hiding under the sandwich wrap.
My first time coming here and I had a terrible experience, the guy bartender was nice, but the bar back threw my vape away after I left no more than three minutes, ran back and he threw the bait in the trash. He had no remorse about the vape, even though I just bought it three hours prior to coming here, will never be coming back after the way he responded to me very rude. After I pay $25 for my babe and he didn’t even care, how disappointing and very rude. I wish I would’ve gotten his name, ruined night with how he reacted to the situation!!!!!!
Great food, streamlined menu, perfect. One of the best fried chicken sandwiches you'll have. Super cool setting, great for large family gatherings. Plenty of seating and room at the bar.
The only good thing I can say, the beer was cold and a great price. The bartender was horrible. The floors where nasty and the bathrooms the same. I can't imagine ordering food from that place.
I love this bar but there was a random girl sitting next to the bouncer, pretending to be a bouncer and she asked to see my ID and hit my vape so I let her. Well she ended up leaving with my vape stealing it. Unprofessional to have random people pretending to be a bouncer.
Walked in with friends and got immediately kicked out without a reason. Stood at the bar like a reasonable person and was told “I don’t know why” and didn’t get a answer when I got kicked out.
31 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Cocktail bar
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is a bi-level bar located in downtown Wilmington, offering a relaxed and rustic setting for whiskey enthusiasts and cocktail lovers. The bar features an extensive selection of over 30 single malt whiskeys, along with unique signature drinks like the cotton candy martini and margarita boba. With its charming atmosphere, expertly crafted cocktails, and friendly staff, it's the perfect spot for a great night out with your partner.
Toto is absolutely amazing! We come here once a month for my husband job and we always have to come see him! He makes the best cocktails and definitely can help you find the perfect one! I just tell him to pick anything never a disappointment ❤️
Jackie A — Google review
Toto and the ambience make this a great bar to start or end your night at in Wilmington. We got there and it was only a few folks... minutes later it was a bop. Congrats on the vibes and service y'all give, it's rare these days!!! Appreciate the custom Pina Colada!!
Fantastic specialty drinks, extensive whiskey selection, great service and atmosphere, and weekend live music. Great location near riverfront restaurants and cultural venues. Walkable neighborhood.
It looked like a fun place and had some pretty good music playing. I'm not much of a mixed drink person, but one of the bartenders did some interesting fire trick while making a drink, and everyone at the bar was pretty captivated!
Came for the smoked old fashion that everyone raves about.
She smoked it for less than a minute. It was decent but wouldn't necessarily call it a smoked old fashion.
Fantastic spot in downtown Wilmington. The berry me tequila cocktail is pure spirits artistry! As the night went from classy cocktails to green tea shots, the bartender Anthony was attentive, kind, and gracious.
Can’t wait to get back!
Great cocktails, fun atmosphere with a lounge type ambiance. The only thing I’d change is lowering the music volume just a bit. Yelling was the only way to have a dialogue with friends.
great place to hear live music.. plenty of comfy seating upstairs
111 Grace St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
cheap
Bar
Barbary Coast, situated on Market Street in Wilmington, is a beloved dive bar known for its laid-back vibe and friendly atmosphere. It's the oldest bar in the area and offers an extensive selection of beers and spirits. The bar also serves food until late at night and features live music on weekends. With a pool table, shuffleboard, and welcoming locals, it's a great spot to unwind in downtown Wilmington.
We were intrigued by checking out the oldest bar in Wilmington... You order at the bar, friendly service! Loud music. TVs. Pool table. Drinks are served in plastic cups. Not overpriced. Decor is very unique. An experience!
Mimi4ms — Google review
Cute old bar, neon and black lights. Punk-ish and old school hiphop music blasting. Cheap prices, fun vibes. Could play pool if you’re into that. Bathrooms are trashed… lol like any old school pub might be…
Great atmosphere, music and locals. Great place for everyone. Cheap ice cold beer!
Dark with loud music, don't be scared everyone is friendly. Bartenders are great beer is fairly priced. Nothing fancy going on here, come check out the oldest bar in ILM
This place is a cool dive bar. Lots of decent beer with a pool table and shuffleboard to boot. Would definitely go back and would love to check it out on a busier night, we went on a Tuesday and were pretty much the only people in there.
A very cool bar with a cool past, a few locals that make the place even better. Great prices
Classic dive bar and I mean that with the utmost respect. Unpretentious atmosphere with a welcoming crowd of locals. Respectable prices on beer and drinks. Right in the heart of downtown Wilmington. Pool table and shuffle board if you feel like displaying your athletic abilities. Awesome place can’t wait to go back.
Cool dive bar with a pool table & shuffle board! Great selection of drinks & quick service! The walls are fun to look at too (:
116 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
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Beer store
Bar
Wine bar
Wine store
Lighthouse Beer & Wine is a must-visit destination in Wilmington, known for its vibrant beer culture. The Voracious & Rare Beer Festival and the Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival are two major events that draw beer enthusiasts from all over. The former offers a unique opportunity to savor rare and hard-to-find beers, while the latter brings together over 40 breweries to support local causes.
Lighthouse Beer & Wine is one of our go-to spots in Wilmington for a great selection of craft beer and wine. The staff is knowledgeable and always ready to help with recommendations! We love hanging out in their outdoor spot when the weather is nice.
Abbi K — Google review
Great selection of local craft beers, seltzers, ciders, cbd beverages, wines, and more! Nice “hidden” patio where you can have a drink outside. Small selection of snacks and mixers. There is a very sweet dog who also works there, and it’s always a joy seeing him.
Fun spot to go get a glass of wine or beer and sit out on the patio. You can even get a bottle of wine and take home what you dont finish. Its a really affordable way to enjoy some drinks on the island or spot to grab drinks to take to your vacation rental or hotel.
Excellent beer selection both in coolers and on tap. Bartender/Cashiers know their beer too. The inside space is a little tight only bc its packed with good brews.
They carry some every day craft brews plus a lot of good canned local stuff and top it off with some top rated beers from all around. The outdoor space is epic with generous room. Some is covered from rain but most is best in good weather. HIGHLY RECCOMEND
Just attended the Ligbthouse Beer and Wine Festival. My husband and I and some friends had a great time. Fantastic event! They also have a great store down in Wrightsville Beach. They have a great variety of beer and wine.
Pretty cool place. Friendly and helpful staff with a ton to choose from! They also sell kegs and have an outdoor seating area!
Absolutely one of the coolest places I think I've ever see. Pretty amazing I think you could spend every day drinking one beer A-day and still never drink the same beer in 2 years. Just another really cool Place to shop in Carolina that we do not have in Arizona. Yall be good now, ya hear.👍
One hell of a tap selection. Great staff. Super cool location. Lots of canned beer. Mellow mushroom and other restaurants close by.
220 Causeway Dr, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, USA•
32Jimmy's
cheap
Bar
Jimmy's at Wrightsville Beach is a popular spot known for its live music and great atmosphere. Visitors rave about the friendly staff, delicious drinks, and the unique slushies. The entertainment options are diverse, from live music performances to DJ sets with prizes during sports games. It's also praised for being a chill place to hang out after a day at the beach.
Don't believe they have food, but I am unsure of that as well. Went in for a few drinks and to catch a little live music. They made a great Irish mule!
Erik S — Google review
Beyond Iconic, my hubs and I come here every chance we get. The musical talent is always top notch and the cocktails are perfection. Best Bloody Mary on Earth and I consider myself a true connoisseur. Fun atmosphere and great people all the way around!
A wonderful bar just a stones throw from the beach. Nice laid back atmosphere with nice people to talk to. The bar help was awesome as could be and the bartender could keep you smiling for days. A great place to come back and hang out while enjoying a cold one with a beach breeze. I didn't even notice the hundreds of dollar bills all over the wall until it was time to leave 🤣
Best place for all your needs. Free entry, free music every day of the week, great prices on drinks, ocean is a rocks throw away. What more could you want?
Also the staff is the best of the best. Security staff makes you feel safe and at home every time you come in.
One star because the bouncer thought it would be fun to be rude to a bachelorette party. If you’ve got a special thing to celebrate go anywhere else, hard to want to celebrate here when the bouncer tries to put down the bride without great reason. In response to an innocent request he literally responded “you’re not that special” (to the bride) when a simple no would have sufficed. Ruined our experience here. The drinks are good and bar staff was great, but this experience warranted an acknowledgement, hopefully the owners will remedy this and make this place a more inviting and fun environment in the future.
I was here for my bachelorette party, dressed in white and a veil, and the bouncer told me point blank that I was “not that special”. I’m not the kind of person who needs attention, but truly I was hurt and this was incredibly disrespectful. Don’t go here if you want a fun time as a woman with a special day to celebrate.
I want to clarify that the intention was never to disrespect your staff or jeopardize your business. I was simply celebrating a big life event, and while we understand the importance of your policies, the comment made by your bouncer felt unnecessarily personal and hurtful. This was never about being denied entry- it was about the bouncer making g a personal, unnecessary comment. “Not that special” wasn’t policy, it was just mean. We didn’t expect special treatment, just basic courtesy. We wish you the best, but felt this experience deserved to be shared.
go anywhere else but here. Horrible atmosphere and bouncer has a case of little man’s syndrome. 5’5 guy with tats gets a kick out of trash talking customers and the second anyone says anything they’re kicked out. He loves his doorman job.
Have been coming to jimmys for years, definitely use to dive bar bathrooms but for a month now they have been using a bucket to collect pee from one of their urinals. I think an out of order sign would be best instead of the smell of 60 mens pee in a bucket. It's one of the worst things I've experienced at a bar.
33KGB ILM
Permanently Closed
Cocktail bar
KGB ILM is a modern underground bar with a secretive KGB theme, featuring deep red interior and KGB memorabilia. Located near North Front Street, it offers amazing riverwalk views. Visitors praise the diverse music selection, comfortable booths, and clean bathrooms. The bartender is friendly despite missing some basic ingredients. This unique spot offers a great selection of brews on tap and plenty of seating options indoors and outdoors for relaxation and conversation.
Thanks to the young bartender who took such awesome care of my gf on a Thursday night three weeks ago. He made her a couple of Moscow Mules with fresh ginger which were excellent. She spent several minutes at the bar just talking and feeling very relaxed while enjoying the attention. We will be back on a Thursday night again to shoot some pool and hopefully he will be working. She might even wear the same revealing corset this week on Thursday or Friday night. Does anyone know his name?
William A — Google review
Awesome parking access. Very noticeable entrance with a cozy outside setting and a beautiful atmosphere inside with a fully stocked bar , booths and a billards table. The bartender was attentive , friendly and provided excellent customer service.
Had a chance while staying in town to check this place out on a whim while walking downtown. It’s a unique eclectic option to have a few drinks with a friends and sit back and relax. Great selection of brews on tap and great service from the staff. Plenty of little spots to sit outside or inside to chill out with good jams and conversation. Water features add a little bit of fun and class and greenery help make this a legit place. Worth stopping in saying hello and getting your drink on with friends. Cheers!!
Great place. We were visiting a friend from out of state and she took us to hang out while she did a work thing.
It was a Saturday night. I loved the music because there was a little something for everyone.
I loved the booths and decor. The bathrooms were clean. Bartender was great, we really liked our drinks and he was friendly. They were missing a couple basic things, amaretto and Irish cream. I would definitely go back even if it was a little loud inside for conversation. We managed though. Maybe there was a dance floor we didn't see.
whoever bought and decided to close kgb i will never forgive you. one of the best remaining bars downtown. you’ve ruined a true wilmington gem. same with bourbon st!
Bartender was just how you expect, Badass ready to serve. Drinks were in point and atmosphere is 10/10. Owned by some cool peeps so check it out on your next bar crawl or for a night out
Cool place, but bartender was terrible. It wasn’t busy at all on a Sunday night, yet he felt the need to be a tool. Good job bro.
Took the Mrs. out for some cocktails & to get out of the house for a couple of hours. After parking nearby, we stopped in to experience the "Cold War Era"-themed, KGB for a drink. Being that this place screams Mother Russia, of course I'm going to order a Moscow Mule. In this case...the KGB Mule.
DRINK: KGB Mule. This thing had some bite to it...I liked it. The fresh sprig of mint gave this a nice, cool sensation after each drink. I'm unfamiliar with Russian Standard Vodka, which appears to be what is used in this drink but it kicks. The ginger beer must have been something other than Goslings. It presented a strong ginger presence in the overall taste of the drink. I have had a few variations of the Moscow Mule & just prefer Goslings Ginger Beer as my top off. But still...good value & taste for a hand-crafted house drink that fits the culture & will have you feeling it shortly after consumption. SCORE: 4.3 STARS!!
SERVICE: Thoroughly enjoyed the bartenders personalities, their professionalism, willingness to make you feel welcome & their overall speed. I'll be back to maybe strike up more of a conversation & ask my guy with the large beard, some questions & tips about his beardcare regiment. Lol. Nice work guys. SCORE: 5 STARS!!
OVERALL: If you want to temporarily feel as if you traveled back in time to the Soviet Union in the 80's, & maybe fear you've become an enemy of the state under the Reagan administration....but still enjoy top-notch service & a kickass drink, stop by KGB. Cool spot. SCORE: 4.6 STARS
Bar
Dram & Draught is a stylish bar with an impressive collection of finely crafted spirits, including whiskey, bourbon, and mezcal. The knowledgeable staff can guide both seasoned aficionados and newcomers through the options to create a tailored experience. The bartenders are highly skilled and knowledgeable, ready to mix up something based on your preferences if you don't find what you want on the menu.
Outstanding! Great for a pre-dinner drinks in downtown Wilmington. Delicious drinks, cool atmosphere and interesting bartenders. We had the Violet, you’re turning Violet and My Pleasure. Obviously a lot of thought went into picking the right ingredients to make the perfect drink. We also had fun figuring out the miniature figurines on the shelf and their connection to the bottles behind them. Highly recommend!
Bonnie H — Google review
Alex was the best bartender ever! He is amazing to watch when he makes your drink! When you are Wilmington it’s the place to stop by!
THIS PLACE IS AWESOME! It's so cool. It reminds me of a hip bar that you'd see in New York City. They carry a wide array of fine spirits. Definitely check out their whiskey selection. I've been multiple times and always am impressed with the selection and service. Also, they have a cool upstairs area. On Monday nights, they host a comedy show, with Paul Baeza as the host. It's really really fun. All local comedians. There's featured comedians at the top, and then they open mic starts, where each comic gets 5 minutes of stage time. Really a cool thing to do on a Monday night when not much is going on anyway. A great bar any night of the week though.
Great service !! Ty was the great ! He was able to make whatever we desired! I’m a tequila girl he made “you’re turning violet” with tequila.. it was amazing !!! he was very informative he told us about local places and shared a lot of good knowledge in general .. definitely will be back !! Best bar in NC
One of our regular spots. Excellent bar staff. Friendly and attentive. They really know their craft, serving great cocktails that are perfectly balanced and beautifully presented. Loved the Seelbach.
Thank you Ty, Jackie, Grace. Blake, Alex, Max, Madison and Eli. Sorry if I missed anyone. ( miss Ava but good luck with your study)
Girlfriend and I visited for a few drinks before going out to dinner. It was so wonderful we went back after eating for another drink! Ty, the head bartender was extremely kind and conversational. He offered excellent drink suggestions and the cocktails were best we’ve had! Would highly recommend. Over the top service, great atmosphere, amazing drinks. Will be returning whenever in Wilmington.
Bartender was very friendly really seemed to know his stuff. The drinks were good although I just got a draft beer friends got mixed drinks and they tasted very good. Some of the regulars might have overindulged a little bit before we got there, but they weren't too over bearing. I'll defintly give it another shot. Really like the eclectic decor and vibe.
Grace took care of us tonight and she was so amicable and helpful!! She gave so many great recommendations. The drinks were creative, unique, and delicious. The place was exciting and cozy at the same time. Will definitely be back!
109 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
35Banter
Cocktail bar
Nestled in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Banter is a charming haven for craft beer lovers and cocktail aficionados alike. This cozy bar boasts an impressive selection of local brews alongside a creative cocktail menu that invites you to unwind and savor each sip. The atmosphere is refreshingly laid-back, making it easy to engage in meaningful conversations with friends or even strike up new ones. Banter encourages patrons to unplug from their busy lives while enjoying live acoustic music that adds to its inviting ambiance.
This cocktail bar was awesome! The bartenders were very knowledgeable and able to answer questions, and suggested great cocktail options.
The decor and vibe is fantastic!
Ariel B — Google review
This was a cool place and the drinks were pretty good, but unfortunately the experience was marred by service. The bartender the night I was there was pretty stuck up and judgmental when I tried to sub something in a drink. Just stinks because the place itself was really cool! Probably wouldn’t go back, unfortunately, based on this experience. Just not worth it when you’re trying to have a fun night and someone treats you that way.
Eclectic dive bar meets craft cocktail heaven! Cozy, friendly, great location with amazing bartenders and a list of craft cocktails. Can’t find what you like? Challenge them to make one there on the spot!
Always be on the lookout for the hidden rabbit. 😉
Love this place. Spend a few hours with my partner relaxing while having a drink. We fell in love with the atmosphere. The bartender, Trent, was awesome and very attentive! We will be back when we are in town again!
My brother and I visited Banter on one of my recent trips to Wilmington. It was early with only a few other patrons. The bartender was attentive and patient. The custom made beverage specials and specialties were interesting and delightful. What’s more, they’re beautifully presented. The historical plaque on the building helps patrons understand its significance. Quirky, small conversation groupings dot the different rooms. There is an outdoor courtyard which perhaps accommodates smokers, however we didn’t investigate that prospect. We did note that it might be difficult to navigate the courtyard’s uneven surface if one was physically unstable due physical or chemical influences. ;-) The only reason I didn’t give it five stars was that the drink prices may be off-putting to those on a budget. All in all, a nice vibe for an early evening meet-up.
The perfect place to philosophize with people over the plight of plants. Sorry… < Turns AI off> … super chill place with great vibe. Many rooms to find your zone, friendly people, affordable too. What’s not to like! Pretty much the opposite of any high end, $25 per drink sort of place.
What a neat little bar!! The inside decor caught our eye as we were walking by, so we felt compelled to stop in and check it out. Just wow! Perfect place to take pictures + the bartender was very friendly and shared with us the hours and some other cool information. We checked out everywhere in the back through to the bathrooms + outdoor area and they really went all out with this unique place. While we weren't able to have a drink, as we were on our way out of town for the day, we will make sure to stop back when we next get a chance!
Nice, cozy place to come and enjoy a beverage. Will be back next time in Wilmington.
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Bar
Nestled in the heart of the community, Greenfield Lake Yacht Club is a delightful blend of an updated dive bar and a vibrant live music venue. Owners Fred and Audrey have breathed new life into this charming establishment, creating a welcoming atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. With Fred's expertise as a mixologist, patrons can indulge in expertly crafted cocktails while enjoying an impressive selection of local craft beers on tap.
Fred and Audrey have done a great job of transforming this old pub into a more current yet very homey, old school style neighborhood attraction. Good beer and drink choices, reasonable prices, fine bunch of locals of all ages. Loads of live music (including owner/partner bar keep mixologist extradinaire Fred). Visit soon!
Chris W — Google review
Amazing bourbon selection and great knowledge from Fred. Delicious cocktails from a Grade A master mixologist. Also…
great bathroom
Great little place to stop & have a drink. Fred is a master mixologist and trains all the bartenders serving you. Several local craft beers on tap for you to enjoy.
Great bar and outdoor music venue. Fred is tapped into the local music scene, and the live shows never disappoint. Also, it's just a chill spot to have a cold draft beer. Awesome staff.
Great drinks and good people. Amazing outside space the regularly host live music.
So happy to have this place exist exactly where it is. The perfect bar.
Brand new spot, no food yet but sometimes they have food trucks
Great bar to enjoy live music and good friends. Bar staff are super friendly and drinks are as ways tasty!
1756 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Brewpub
American restaurant
Brewery
Restaurant
Front Street Brewery is a popular microbrewery located in Wilmington, offering a variety of house beers and elevated pub food. The brewery also provides daily tours for visitors to learn about the beer-making process. Situated within old warehouses and brick buildings, it is part of a vibrant microbrewery scene that includes other notable establishments like Waterline Brewing and Flytrap Brewery.
A nice little spot for craft beer and good food. I got the pulled pork sandwich and it was excellent. Came with house made chips, which I'm a sucker for. They were delicious. To my surprise, not just a brewery, they have hundreds of bottles of whiskey at the bar. This is definitely a place to try a bourbon you have never had to taste test. So much, that I went there twice in one week. The bartender understands her whiskeys. Ask for a recommendation!
Joshua K — Google review
Absolutely best deal for a flight. Five 5 ounce pours for 14.49. SLAP sauce on wings is best pick. Really cool interior. Customer service from Nancy was spot on.
What an outstanding find. People were friendly and attentive, great menu with some southern classics like shrimp and cheesy grits, Carolina BBQ pulled pork...even a couple of vegan wrap/sandwich options!
Fried pickles with housemade pickles were soooooo good. Probably the best you'll eat. Pulled pork BBQ sandwich was great. Smoky flavor, moderately wet slaw and a soft bun was wonderful.
Huge whiskey selection and delicious seasonal beers.
I am so glad I chose Front Street Brewery for our lunch after the Cape Fear River boat ride.
We came at 1pm, the peak hour for restaurant, it was full but yet we had our table immediately.
We loved the atmosphere of the restaurant, it seemed that it had renovated from an old building.
Our server Cameron was super helpful, super attentive, and always with a smile.
My husband had a sandwich with a dark beer which he really liked and I had the fish and chips.
Bathroom was also nicely decorated and very clean even with the amount of clientele they have during the lunch time.
Highly recommend when you come to visit Wilmington.
Great food and drinks. My mom and I shared a pimento smash burger and that was perfect for us since it had two patties. The fries were just right, crispy but not overdone. The beer nuggets were incredible as well, with queso and marinara.
My girlfriend and I came here tonight, she's been before but it was my first time. We were greeted and seated and that's when it took a turn for the worst. We ordered Chips and Salsa *menu said it comes with a lot of chips, it doesn't. For my main dish I got the quesadilla with mexican red rice, the rice was undercooked and hard while the quesdilla was completely burnt and charred. I don't know how it passed the quality check in the kitchen, when the server saw it she was visibly disgusted along with my girlfriend and I. It was the fastest we've ever dined and we barely ate, the food was so bad it ruined my appetite for the remainder of the night and felt sick after...
We had a great time at Front Street. Our server was awesome and “understood the assignment.” She got our appetizer and the meal for our 4-and-a-half year old put in first and took great care of us. The beers we had were amazing and I highly recommend the slapwhich. Great food, good service, good atmosphere. When we come back this way, we will be back for sure.
Came over to Wilmington today to get out of Jacksonville area, had originally looked at another restaurant that had an hour and a half wait. We took a short walk over to front Street brewery. We only waited a few minutes while we grabbed a few beers at the bar and were able to be seated upstairs!
Everyone we encountered was kind and the service was great!! Food was genuinely delicious!!!
9 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Bluewater Waterfront Grill is a lively venue located on the Intracoastal Waterway near Wrightsville Beach. It offers a great atmosphere with a large patio and live music, making it an ideal spot to enjoy seafood and steaks while taking in the beautiful waterfront views. The restaurant hosts a summer music series every Sunday evening from April through September, featuring talented local musicians.
We ended up going back for brunch after eating dinner here the night before - it was that good and they had a table immediately available unlike the cafe next door during brunch. The service and food are amazing. The ambiance of actually being on the water - perfect. Matt our waiter was excellent and kept the drinks topped off and was always at our table when needed and not there when not needed. This has become our go to place when visiting Wrightsville Beach. Pro tip: try the shrimp and grits - they will not disappoint.
Daniel C — Google review
I came here for a lunch and we were so happy with our experience! We sat outside and it was so enjoyable. The food and drinks were delicious! Definitely will be back. I was surprised that the lobster roll was cold but to my own shocking I loved it!
Amazing gem of a restaurant! Overlooking the water, the food is extremely well made, the service impeccable. We ended up coming here twice, once for dinner and once for lunch and the wait was maybe 10 minutes on Labor Day weekend. Both servers were attentive to our needs and very polite. The recommendations they gave us for food were on point, but we really think every dish was thought out and delicious. If you’re looking for seafood dishes that are fresh and well made this is the place to go to!
We had a lovely dinner, sat outside and our server was very attentive. We tried the crab dip, oysters, lobster roll, and scallops. Everything was delicious! We also loved the complimentary corn bread.
I tried the spicy pineapple margarita (i love spicy food), it is definitely spicy.
Got there early 4:30, on a July 4 week weeknight, sat outside by the marina. Nice view and atmosphere. Ashley was attentive and on top of the order, even after the tables started filling up. The smoked fish dip was very good, but a standard recipe. The clam chowder has some interesting seasoning I couldn’t place, and a very good clam to potato ratio. The seared ginger tuna was excellent, as was the Mediterranean mahi.
A few other items looked temping, but we were out for seafood. Would definitely go back.
We had a fantastic experience at Bluewater Waterfront Grill! Sitting outside was an absolute treat, with a stunning view of the water and boats gliding by—perfect for a relaxing day out. The staff was exceptional, especially our server, who was in training. He did an outstanding job, and we are rooting for his success at the restaurant. The lunch was delicious, with great food and drinks that made the meal truly enjoyable. This is a wonderful spot to savor a meal, sip on drinks, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Highly recommend!
Food and atmosphere were great! We ordered an appetizer but it was brought out to us late. It came with the rest of the food. Other than that, the food was delicious! Service was very nice too.
There isn't a whole lot on the menu I'd eat but I got the salmon grains bowl and it was pretty good. My partner got the fried fish plate and she liked it! I went there for the scenery, though, not so much the food. It was super cute and I enjoyed watching the sunset as we ate!
4 Marina St, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480, USA•
affordable
Cupcake shop
Bakery
Cafe
Dessert shop
The Peppered Cupcake is a charming, independently owned shop that serves up an array of creative sweet and savory cupcakes. Visitors can indulge in unique flavors like taro while also enjoying the quaint ambiance. The storefront features a cute cupcake vending machine, adding to the overall experience. While some patrons have encountered issues with berries on their cupcakes, others have raved about the freshness and deliciousness of the treats available.
Adorable shop with amazing cupcakes and abundant choices of flavors. We tried 4 different flavors, each were amazing! Definitely a must stop to treat yourself if you're walking around downtown! ❤️ 😍
TodayIsOurAdventure — Google review
Beautiful place; my wife was looking for anniversary cake for us to eat. We picked 4 delicious cupcakes from this store. Thank you for honoring the Lord Jesus Christ by playing Christian music. The checkout process with the QR code was streamlined. God bless you and your business!
My daughter chose a cookies and cream cupcake and as she was eating it (maybe 10 minures after purchase) we found mold in the center. My child is allergic to mold, so this could've been very bad if I hadn't caught it before she ate it. I had planned to go purchase more cupcakes to take home, but I'll pass. I'd also like a refund. FYI, tried calling the number and did not get an option to leave a message. Also, tried FB and got a message saying you won't respond there. So, before you blast me, as you did other people who complained of MOLD, don't try that with me, I even asked another local business if they knew how to contact you. You may want to try actually speaking to customers and not avoiding them.
Purchased a cupcake yesterday. As I was eating I found mold in the middle. At first, I thought it was randomly a piece of blue cheese. Since that was the flavor I was getting, but then, as I looked closer, I realized it was mold growing on something in the cupcake.
—I really appreciate the additional comment/ follow up from the owner. I can say that the cupcake was delicious up until that point. 😆. I hope you find a solution!
Bought some cupcakes last night (6/4/25) for my wife’s bday. Our first time trying and we were so excited. We got home and decided to save our treats so we put them in the refrigerator. Well today I get home from work and decided to have a sweet tray for a snack. I start eating a cupcake and notice an odd taste from the filling. I look down a find mold. Needless to say we will not be going back.
This shop is top of the line. Friendly staff who shared the story of the store as well as explaining each flavor. Very soft and light cupcakes. Some were layered with fruits, purees etc. The icing is light and just enough sweetness. We tried almost all their currents flavors. The display is simple and well marked.
Saw the "Cupcakes" sign from the corner and had to go check it out and man are we glad we did!!! A cool variety of flavors already packaged and ready to go. We took ours back to our hotel and enjoyed with a cup of coffee. They were all delicious!
Omg!! This place was so cute. After dinner my daughter and I were walking to our car and ran across this place. We were surprised by the self-checkout/honor system. It was easy to shop and easy to pay. The cupcake was delicious too! We will definitely be back.
105 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Restaurant
Fish House Grill is a coastal seafood restaurant located on Wrightsville Beach's infamous Airlie Road, with an unbeatable view of the Intracoastal Waterway. They serve up some of North Carolina's best seafood in a lively atmosphere with an outdoor deck.
First time at wrightville beach and looked up a place nearby. Nestled at the base of the Wrightsville Beach drawbridge, Fish House Grill boasts a prime waterfront location with outdoor seating perfect for boat-spotting and ocean breezes. Food was excellent. Highly recommend
Meta V — Google review
Delicious blackened tuna tacos and a fried flounder basket.Reasonably priced too. The tuna tacos were cooked perfectly, flavorful big chunks of tuna. Definitely add guacamole! I didn’t try the flounder but the fries were really good. Cold beer and a beautiful waterfront marina view. Our server was excellent. She greeted us, knew the menu well, brought drinks, and food quickly. We had a great time and really enjoyed it. I’ve been twice before and I’ll definitely go again!
The food was fantastic. Stopped in around 4pm on the way back from the beach and sat outside. We wound up in the sun and that was the only negative. The food was fantastic. My daughter had the blackened Mahi mahi. I had the blackened tacos.
Easy parking. Super fast service. Great views. Did I mention fantastic food?!
Delicious food with a good marinara view and vibes. It's got the view, it's got the vibes, it's got the food. What more can you ask for?
If you are looking for a chill, (not too expensive) meal on the water, this is it! Everything is served in plastic baskets and the mojito was pretty weak - that's the only reason it gets a 4 Star. Everything else was exactly what we were looking for after a long day sitting on the beach in the sun.
The service was really great our waitress was attentive and very professional the food was great and the portions for the price was nice we sat outside and the atmosphere is relaxing a nice restaurant and I will definitely come back when I visit Wilmington again
Fish House Grill is a casual spot that delivers both flavor and portion size, perfect for sharing a meal with family or friends.
Food:
• The nachos were a standout starter—loaded with pulled chicken, black beans, jalapeños, melted cheese, pico de gallo, and served with fresh guacamole and salsa. Every bite was flavorful and hearty.
• The pineapple bacon cheddar burger struck a perfect balance of sweet and savory, and pairing it with steamed broccoli was a nice, fresh touch.
• The tacos were generously filled, whether chicken, pork, or beef, topped with fresh onions, shredded cheese, and pico de gallo. Each came with a side of blue corn chips and dipping sauces, making them both filling and customizable.
Presentation & Portions:
Dishes came out well-portioned in classic red trays lined with paper, giving it a fun, laid-back vibe. The portions are large, so come hungry or be ready to share.
Atmosphere:
The outdoor seating had a lively, relaxed feel—great for groups and casual dining. It’s the kind of place where you can enjoy good food without pretense.
Overall:
Fish House Grill nails casual dining with bold flavors, generous servings, and a menu that balances comfort classics with a fresh twist. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a satisfying, relaxed meal.
What a delicious way to end a day at the beach! Beat the dinner crowd for a few light bites to soak up the sun on the patio instead of sitting in traffic. Seafood nachos were a tasty meal and the pina colada was perfection.
Jack, young man, provided excellent service for our group of 10 people. Jasmine discussed seating with me along with another young lady at the hostess desk. Everyone was very nice and pleasant. The food and service were amazing. Plenty of parking available. Highly recommend!
Most in my family did not like the lemon pepper french fries.
1410 Airlie Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA•
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expensive
Seafood restaurant
Fried chicken takeaway
New American restaurant
Rx Chicken and Oysters is a laid-back restaurant located in a renovated drugstore, offering a menu that changes with the seasons and emphasizes local ingredients. The eatery is known for its Hickory Smoked Chicken Wings and Buffalo-style Pig Ears, but also features an array of dishes showcasing produce from nearby farms and fresh catches from local fishmongers.
After a dud of a seafood meal the previous night, we were looking for a redemption meal. We found it at Rx Chicken & Oysters! The food is sustainable, locally sourced, and outstanding! Many places tout the “sea to table,” but few actually give you food that truly tastes like It. Rx wrote the book on it! We had the spiny lobster tail hush puppies, skillet corn bread, grouper with spiny lobster tail rice and heirloom tomato reduction, grunt with grits, seasonal vegetables and citrus and herb butter, brownie with soft serve, and blueberry cobbler. Everything was fresh and cooked perfectly! The fish had amazing flavor and the crust was just right. The tomato reduction had incredible flavor! The grits were delicious - a tasty nod to southern culture and paired with the fish nicely. Start to finish, the food was amazing and well worth the drive! If you’re looking for truly fresh, local seafood, visit Rx!
Latisha J — Google review
Small restaurant on Castle Street. Street parking only here. Met a friend group here, and the restaurant is neat, lots of artwork on the walls.
The service was excellent and the staff was really nice. We had three items off the menu. The biscuits, pimento cheese, and ham "snack" was excellent. The pork chops with sweet potatoes was good but the mac & cheese was... odd. Had a very odd flavor, maybe earthy? Idk if they put like truffle or something in it... very strange. We had the strawberry cobbler and while it was ok, it also wasn't great. So for the cost, we didn't find the food to be bad by any means, but it wasn't exceptional either.
Overall, the restaurant was clean and we enjoyed the meal and we would probably try it again at some point.
Hiddem gem in Wilmington! As a pharmacist, I was initially intrigued since this restaurant used to be a pharmacy (although the decor & inside is not pharmacy themed) but we decided to try it based on the food options. Our waitress was friendly & knowledgeable. We aren't big seafood eaters so she took the time to explain the catch-of-the-day options. We had never heard of lionfish (see pictures for a sculpture of this spiky fish) but my husband decided to try it. And it ended up being his favorite meal of the whole trip! It's a little pricey, but you can taste the quality & freshness of the food. Everything was delicious & well-prepared. Highly recommend trying a dessert served with their soft-serve ice cream. Just a few blocks from downtown, its hidden on a residential street but definitely worth a visit
Hidden gem. We went for Sunday brunch and had a very tasty Bloody Mary and their shrimp and spiny lobster quiche (with Hollandaise sauce). That dish ranks as one of the few best meals we've ever eaten in Wilmington. First time to Rx but glad we found it because it won't be our last. Love the extra space between the tables making it a nice pace for a date. Service was top notch (thx Ellie). And very reasonable cost.
We were on vacation and decided to try this restaurant because our adult son was craving raw oysters. The atmosphere is cool/eclectic and welcoming. If I had 1 complaint it was that it was very loud in there. We were there on a Friday night and the restaurant was packed so I didn't mind at all but if you are going for a quiet dinner, maybe go on a weeknight😁 We had a reservation so we were seated immediately. Our server came to our table promptly to take our drink orders. I ordered the cocktail that was a special that night and it was blueberry simple syrup with elderflower liqueur and proseco. It was delicious and refreshing without being overly strong or sweet. For appetizers we got blue crab dip for my husband and I to share and our adult son got the Lucy Bea oysters. He said they were the best oysters he has ever had, very fresh and clean tasting with the flavor of the sea. They were fantastic. Our dinners were super good with my husband getting the shrimp and grits which was rich and decadent. I got the 1/2 fried chicken which was so crunchy and dark with flavor but moist and juicy on the inside. My sides were mac&cheese and small delicious flaky buttery biscuits. Our son got the chili cheeseburger. All of the food was delicious. I'm sure the fresh caught fish is great but we are not big seafood eaters. Our desserts were fabulous too. My husband and I split the bread pudding which had large crusty/crispy bread chunks which were tender on the inside and had a caramel and whipped cream😋 Our son got the blueberry cobbler with soft serve ice cream. They were both so amazing! I would never hesitate to come and enjoy the food again the next time we are in Wilmington!
Visited here on Aug 23rd 2025 for my birthday.
Single joined at the Bar area.
Fish was amazing.
I tried the fresh catch swordfish!
This place really know how to cook a perfect fish!
Like it as the top fish cooking place in USA!
Also the soft dessert as good as fish too.
We wanted to try something new for a date night spot and so lucky we landed on this place. Our waiter was so amazing and educated us on the meals. The BEST Oysters and Crab Cakes I have ever had. Will be coming back many many times!
This restaurant definitely lived up to our expectations. It was the best meal we had while on vacation in the area. It has an upscale vibe with really friendly service. They know what they're talking about and are attentive. We ordered most of the appetizers on the menu. The mini biscuits were the best. My husband also loved the pig ears and belly. I've had better oysters and shrimp, but the signature hot sauce was a nice touch. We got a bottle to take with us. We enjoyed the chicken, shrimp and grits, and fresh catch (snapper). Overall, this restaurant offered great food and a really good experience. We recommend!
421 Castle St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Bar & grill
Bar
Restaurant
Hell's Kitchen is a lively neighborhood bar in Downtown Wilmington that offers a variety of pub-grub favorites, microbrews, cocktails, and daily specials. It's known for being a sports lover's haven with access to various sports streaming subscriptions to catch all the big games. The bar has been recognized for serving the best wings in Wilmington, available in 14 different sauces. The friendly staff and festive atmosphere make it an enjoyable spot to unwind or have a great time with friends.
Stopped in for some hot wings and wasn't disappointed! Got the hot and buffalo garlic flavor. Wings were great size and good amount of crisp. Service was quick and waitress was friendly. Overall great place if you want some comfort food with a kick!
Tim H — Google review
Such a cool restaurant to go to for a quick bite to eat in the evening. Decided to spontaneously walk in here after our evening activity and was pleasantly surprised by the amount of people in the restaurant and how welcoming the atmosphere was. Waitress was amazing and answered all questions me and my friends had regarding food. People at different tables and even the servers were all singing to the music playing in the restaurant which made it so much more fun to hang out in. Would recommend to anyone who enjoys those late evening dinners in great bars with great people. The devil made me do it burger was delicious and I normally do not care for fries but I loved theirs. Large portions and its definitely worth the price.
Great bar some fine choices in the menu, but not so broad as to be ridiculous. So many places simply try to cater to everyone instead of focusing on offering well prepared tasty options. Enjoyed the experience. Very nice bartender.
Great little place to eat and grab some brews! Food is great, wait staff is great for the most part. We went in at 11:30 during the weekday for an early lunch and it took forever to get our food. There’s maybe 4 tables including us in the restaurant. Kitchen is slow every time we go. Wait staff could be more attentive on slower shifts as it took 25 mins to get my servers attention for the check and to-go boxes…. But any other time we’ve visited, it’s been ok. Just again, the kitchen seems to be slow all the time. Food is great tho, so we don’t complain too much!
I was excited to try this as it came recommended. However the couple next to me mentioned that their burger was raw, and shortly there after my burger came out a beyond what I was comfortable with for ground meat. I asked for the manager and Aliya removed the cost of the burger for me and offered to cook a new one.
Unfortunately, in my experience this is a sign of deeper issues so I paid for the side and drink then left.
I don't need or want a response to this review from the business. This experience stands on its own and there won't be another opportunity to correct this. Safe cooking isn't tricky, get it right or quit.
We got here on the perfect day to get their classic burger on a deal. Our waitress was super cool. All of their food was REALLY good. I highly recommend this place.
Seat yourself vibe . We had three adults and one child with us. Server came right over with menus and asked to take our drink orders. She was incredibly pleasant and answered any questions we had. She was always checking in on us and refilled my water three times for me.
We ended up deciding on just ordering a bunch of apps. It was a great idea and more than enough to feed us all. Food was really good and we will absolutely be back .All in all a great experience no hassle or pressure at all.
Addison (Addie C) was our server, she was super nice and prompt. Very cool atmosphere. The food was delicious. My husband had the Turkey club, I had the fish and chips, while our kids had the chicken wrap and burger. Food came out quickly. Restrooms were well maintained. Paid street parking and lot. Would definitely go back!
118 Princess St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Ice cream shop
Dessert shop
Boombalatti's Homemade Ice Cream is a family-run sweet shop with a modern and colorful setting, offering a rotating selection of unique and delicious flavors. They are known for their commitment to using only the finest, all-natural ingredients in their ice cream. With locations in Wilmington and Hampstead, they offer dairy-free and vegan options made from coconut milk. Customers love the variety of flavors, including classics like vanilla and chocolate as well as adventurous concoctions such as lavender honey and cannoli.
Great selection of ice cream and the waffle cone was delicious as well. I would definitely come back here again when I'm in the area again. Quick and friendly service.
Jason G — Google review
Good ice cream but on the pricey side. It was a good mix of flavors and sundaes, but what surprised me was $9.25 for a 16oz milkshake--that's just not doable for me. There was quite a bit of merchandise; it's a fun name and vibrant location as well. Good amount of seating indoor and out. They even host a car show on Sunday evenings. It was overall a fun spot and positive experience, but the $9.25 milkshake price puts this place in a category that makes me opt for a more economical option next time.
Nice variety of unique flavors, highly recommend the cinnamon oatmeal. The waffle bowl was good. The banana pudding flavor was also great. The cannoli flavor had some orange/tangerine flavor, which wasn’t expected. Slightly on the more expensive side, but I believe it is home made so the ingredients are of higher quality I presume. Overall very solid ice cream place.
I tried to go on a Saturday evening, but the line wrapped around the building. I went again on Sunday morning and there was no line. The ice cream is very soft, creamy, and overall rich in flavor. The staff were super friendly. I’d definitely come back when I’m in town!
Stumbled upon this amazing icecream shop after a sweets craving hit! They were very busy, which told us we were in the right spot for good ice cream! They handled the out the door line with ease and quickness. The flavors were great, their merch was also cool, my wife picked up a long sleeve that she’s refused to wash the rest of the trip because it smelled like the ice cream shop! Looking forward to another visit in the future!
Ok people rave about this place and my own brother won’t leave Wilmy without stopping here. I’m a huge ice cream fan but this time the Boombee failed me. I absolutely adores cannolis and was so pumped to try cannoli ice cream. Dude! It tastes very strongly of orange and not like a cannoli at all. The double fudge scoop was fire though. Our table was sticky. My son got a cannoli milkshake and gave it a 2. My husband didn’t like his chocolate very much either. We will try this place again on our next trip and give it a chance at redemption.
If you are in the area stop here and get icecream!! I got a Carmel macchiato milkshake and it was delicious! I will definitely be back before I head back home.
This ice cream is the best! Very delicious!
Can you guys come to Virginia? 😄
1127 Military Cutoff Rd B, Wilmington, NC 28405, USA•
affordable
American restaurant
Bar
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Rebellion NC is a trendy urban bar and restaurant that boasts a charming brick interior adorned with TV screens. This cozy spot serves up inventive American cuisine, making it a delightful destination for food enthusiasts. Owned by veterans Wes, Pops, and John—who brings his unique background to the mix—Rebellion NC offers an inviting atmosphere where patrons can enjoy classic cocktails reimagined with creative twists.
Love it here! Probably the best bourbon selection in Wilmington. Have excellent burgers. They have 2 new special every week!
Svend M — Google review
Pork belly and giant pretzel were awesome. Pretzel was hot and soft and the cheese sauce was unique and delicious. Not crowded when we arrived but service was looking a little harried. Nice guy. Old fashioned were smoked, yum. We maybe set our expectations a little high because of all the fantastic distilleries we also tried in the area. Love the name!!
✨ Don’t judge a restaurant by its exterior! From the outside, this spot may seem small—but step through the doors and you'll find a surprisingly spacious interior with a laid-back, cool vibe. Nestled in the heart of Downtown Wilmington, it’s a hidden gem offering top-notch customer service and seriously tasty food.
🍔 Must-tries:
1. Pork Bites – crispy, savory, and addictively delicious.
2. The Rebellion Burger – bold flavors that live up to the name.
Can definitely be described as a sports bar, as there are TVs everywhere and every football game was on Sunday afternoon. However, we went for the food and we were very happy. Delicious Cuban sandwich with crunchy waffle fries. Great beers on tap! Very friendly staff and excellent service!
Awesome place! Food was excellent. I loved my hamburger and fries. Super selection of whiskies.. very impressive! The bartender was very knowledgeable of their whiskey selection.
We enjoyed an early dinner before a sunset cruise. The waitstaff was friendly and attentive.
The Charlie's BLT was perfectly seared tuna with crispy bacon, tomato, lettuce and sauce. Served with crispy brussel sprouts that were absolutely delicious and large enough to share. The Rebel yell was full of smoked turkey and melty cheese with crisp bacon. Sandwiches were definitely large and filling. The Wild Bunch burger had shaved ribeye, chimichurrie sauce and loads of cheese and sauce. Juicy and delicious. Definitely worth a stop when in Wilmington.
Rebellion has great food and service with a nice bar. We had the Holy Sheet Nacho Tray (in photo). Rebellion also features live entertainment on the weekends. John Hussman seen playing in the photos.
Wanted to check this place out for a while, love the look and interior. Got their Cheese Plate, the bread amazing, the cheese amazing, the pickles had a weird spicy/peppery taste. Got their Nashville Hot wings, they had a weird smell just sitting there. They weren’t spicy at all, maybe like a 1 1/2 outta 10 for spicy, and they didn’t taste like normal Nashville hot I’ve had before. Got their Rebel Yell, honestly nothing special. Still yummy but it’s just a grilled turkey sandwich with cheese & tomato. The Brussels sprouts are pretty good, very good on the garlic scene. The service was lovely, our server Savannah was just absolutely wonderful.
The cheese plate 5/10
Nashville hot wings 1/10
Rebel Yell 4/10
15 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
affordable
Bar
Located just a short distance from Front Street Brewery, Pour Taproom in Wilmington offers a unique concept that stands out from traditional breweries. While not technically classified as a brewery itself, it received numerous votes and was therefore included in the discussion. The establishment provides patrons with wristlets that activate beer and wine taps, allowing them to serve themselves. This innovative approach is met with enthusiasm and excitement by visitors.
If you appreciate good craft beers, this is the place. A self-serve tap house with 70 beers on tap and charged by the ounce. Also, self serve wine and a full bar for hard alcohol. Two floors, abundant seating for small and large groups, TV's for watching sports and a game room with pool tables. They host events. A great place to learn what style of beer suits your taste.
Jerry Z — Google review
SUPER sweet & attentive staff! They explained how things work there and were always running around making sure we had what we needed (clearing empty glasses and restocking). We loved that they are dog friendly indoors! Lots of comfortable places to sit and endless options of a variety of beers, wines & cider. It was convenient being able to pour your own drinks when you wanted and as much as you wanted! They had everything well labeled & organized. We were told this was an old bank and the vault is the room used for the wines (see video).
Food was temporarily unavailable, but there were plenty of restaurants with takeout within walking distance. We had no trouble finding paid parking on the street, although we went in the afternoon on Friday so it may be more difficult later in the evening.
This place is massive. The upstairs even has a game room & additional taps as well as large windows spending across the entire wall with beautiful city views. This is a great place with a chill vibe to try a lot of local beers if you are short on time visiting Wilmington! :)
Came here for the first time. I was thoroughly impressed with their selections of beers on tap. They also offer wine but I’m not much of a wine drinker. The wrist bands are a fun & cool concept which makes self serve quite the experience. Each tap has all of the beer information you need to know even the price per ounce on LED Screens above each tap. It has a modern/industrial feel to it which adds to the experience. The food menu offers a lot of options. I’ll have to come back to try the food next time! I would highly recommend this place for small and large groups alike. Can’t wait to return!
Very nice place, Bud guy came & saw no King of Beers. You guys have a wonderful place & your wine room was perfect!! Very friendly staff, she was very helpful from the moment we walked in. Found my new vacation spot. Well done folks !
Had a wonderful time hanging out at the new Pour Taproom. We were waiting for it to open, and we weren't disappointed! Food was good. Not a huge menu, but enough choices. After going to a similar taproom in Raleigh, we were happy to have something similar nearby. I love that you can try a sampling of many different types of beer, and then decide what you like best and get a bigger pour. We'll be heading back soon!
What a fun find. You buy a ticket, then get to self serve your beer, wine, and sparkling wine by the ounce with hundreds of choices from around the country. Never seen anything like it. You simply settle up at the by how many ounces you consumed. Great way to discover new craft beverages.
Pretty cool place! Great concept! You receive a wristband that controls how many ounces you can pour yourself. Everything is in tap. Beer AND wine! Nice to be able to take a tiny taste of a beer or wine. If you like it...pour more!! We also went upstairs in the game room..darts...pool..shuffleboard!
Fun place to hang, drink, and socialize! Plenty of choices to choose from. All sorts of beers and wine on tap. Plus there a retail any lines since it's self pour! No more waiting to be served as you can just go up your self!! They also have a bunch of board games to grab and play with friends. Over all great place to visit!
201 N Front St g101, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
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Brewery
Food & Drink
Bar
Tucked away in the vibrant Brooklyn Arts District of Historic Downtown Wilmington, Flytrap Brewing is a must-visit for beer lovers. This charming brewery features a cozy atmosphere and an inviting beer garden filled with an impressive selection of taps. Known for its exceptional American and Belgian-style ales, as well as small-batch creations, Flytrap Brewing has quickly become a beloved spot among locals seeking unique flavors. The brewery also offers convenient to-go options, allowing guests to savor their favorite brews at home.
Great beer selection. They do flights and half pours. Large bar. Friendly staff. Outdoor seating. Liked every beer I tried. If you like beer this is a must when visiting Wilmington.
Mike N — Google review
Wide and unique range of styles with a good majority of taps changing seasonally or for special releases. There is something for everyone (cider and wine offered as well). I also think it's really cool that they often use fresh/local adjuncts in their brews.
Very comfortable environment whether you're inside or out. Great staff; always had friendly, helpful and welcoming service. Excellent vibe all around.
Second visit here after 5 years. Good selection of different beer styles. Lovely decor with local art. Nice outside seating with heaters. Friendly beertenders. Walkable area.
Nice Vibes... Good beer/wine selections. Plenty of room outside to hang. Had good music playing live!
A wonderful local brewery located near the Brooklyn Arts district in historic downtown Wilmington. They have a wide variety of excellent fresh beers and they also serve wine. They have local artists who perform from time to time and they also have food trucks that show up to provide cuisine to accompany your beer and wine. The employees here are very friendly and helpful.
Flytrap is a great spot! We stopped through on our way to Oak Island and we needed a place with an outdoor space for our dogs and baby to move around. The beer was really good and the beer garden was lovely. Definitely dog and baby friendly.
I also left my glasses in the bathroom when I was changing out of my travel clothes and Karissa went through the trouble of mailing them back to us in Baltimore! I could not be more grateful. It will absolutely become an annual pit stop for us during our trips to NC! Thanks, Flytrap!
My windows and I stumbled upon this place after a great dinner at Pinpoint. Loved the outside seating area and live music in the corner. The beer was great and it was a treat to be able to find a saison on tap, my personal favorite style. My wife also appreciated that they had a carefully selected natural wine list as well. Great experience and I left with a case of beer too✌️
They had live music and had a great variety of pumpkins for sale. Very festive!
319 Walnut St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
Brewery
Food & Drink
Bar
Nestled within the charming backdrop of Wilmington, Waterline Brewing Co. stands out as a must-visit destination for craft beer enthusiasts. Housed in a beautifully restored section of the old Jacobi Hardware warehouse, this brewery boasts an inviting taproom and a delightful outdoor beer garden, perfect for soaking up the sun while enjoying their diverse selection of ales.
Had some great brews and tunes at the waterline! Four bands doing some punk inspired rock. Some early sound issues plagued the first hour or so, but once they figured it out it seemed to go smoothly.
If you're in to local, entry level music this is worth checking out.
The venue is nice, tucked away by the cape fear bridge it has a nice outdoor area and an indoor bar and stage.
T.R. ( — Google review
Such a cool place! Love all their events. Venue has tons of parking and space. Bring your own chairs in case it's crowded during an event. So easy to get to. Food trucks are always available for events. Also great to stop by for a beer. Dog-friendly, great vibe and a great mix of friendly people.
This brewery is a little out of the way, but it's a cool venue with lots of indoor and outdoor seating, plus areas for live music. It also produces a very good variety of beers styles. I had the hefeweizen and it was great.
Highly recommend. The service was outstanding as was the craft beer . They also have a store with antiques that are exceptional and it's huge . Really cool stuff and reasonable prices
This is a really good place with their own beer and unique beer. The staff was friendly nice and they really know how to make a good suggestion for you. And if you don't drink like the silent traveler myself they do offer quite a bit of non-alcoholic drinks as well. It's a good place for live music as well and if you're into art there's actually a art store next door with painting sculptures of a variety of different styles of art that will catch your interest. Definitely a good place to meet up with friends hang out have some really good beer. The only thing I would suggest for this place is having some sweet tea with lots of lemon on the side get that North Carolina feel. There's nothing like having some good sun tea from the beach side of things. But the staff really good the beer really good the atmosphere really good. So again from the silent traveler this place also gets a A1.
Best kolsch in town! Bring home a six pack to tide me over to the next visit.
Enjoy the atmosphere, friendly bartenders and many vendor fairs.
Awesome vibes, laid back and great beer!!! Will definitely be back again!!
Lots of awesome craft desserts 🤭😋. My guest enjoyed the double IPA and I indulged the black IPA👍👍. 🍻
Food truck on site with yummies..😃
Friendly staff, clean, covid conscious precautions. Lovely garden. Lots of outdoor seating and obviously entertainment on occasion but not during my visit. The garden is cig friendly. Furbabies are warmly greeted and welcome. Terrific location on the Cape Fear River. Always enjoy coming here.
721 Surry St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
Brewery
Food & Drink
Edward Teach Brewing is a microbrewery located in Wilmington's Brooklyn Arts District, housed in a historic firehouse that is over a century old. The brewery pays homage to the notorious pirate Blackbeard, also known as Edward Teach, who roamed the shores of North Carolina. The interior features a two-story ship-shaped bar and offers eight craft beers on tap, including favorites like Three Sheets Double Wit and Peg Leg Chocolate Porter.
A review from the loft. The bar was full on a Friday at 6pm. So we took our beers upstairs. I liked my vanilla lager and Jo’s black lager. I also liked the white couch in the loft. Worth a visit if you like beer and are in Wilmington. If it’s busy head to the loft. Dogs are not allowed in the loft.
Mike N — Google review
This is a fun little brewery located in an old fire station near downtown Wilmington. The staff here is both attentive and friendly! We decided to drop in for the BBQ food truck and ended up enjoying some refreshing brews. I particularly liked Teach's Peaches. It had been a while since I'd had such a delightful peach beer 🍺🍑.
We opted to sit on the patio, soaking in some rays while savoring our beers. It seems to be a favorite spot for the wedding crowd, as there were several well-dressed individuals enjoying drinks. We highly recommend stopping by and trying a beer next time you're in town!
Love the pirate theme of the notorious Black Beard.
Good beer selection, large bar, outdoor seating, live music, upstairs loft for private events or just hanging out on the comfy sofa.
Great beer. Hazy IPA was mild, strong, and flavorful. German lager was so drinkable. Mexican style lager had a really refreshing cinnamon tang to it, also really drinkable. Bar tenders were very welcoming, friendly, and the pizza from Luca's was delicious.
Besides the drama, honestly have loved the staff (not owner) since day one. Great space and delicious beer!! Very dog friendly!
Oh wow! So happy we dropped by this place. The staff was amazing, the beer was fantastic, & they sold snacks from local businesses. There was live music that wish we could have stayed much later to enjoy. Pups were welcome. The decor was a cross between the pirate theme in its name, but there was a definite presence of the original fire house that was in this building. A true gem not far from the river front. This is the kinda place if we were locals, we'd be frequenting often. We will definitely be back the next time we are in town. Go check it out, it won't disappoint!!!
This is a great modern brewery off the main strip in Wilmington. Serving delicious craft beers, classic flavors with modern twists. This place has really good acoustics with live music all the time. Brewery is very clean, new ,modern concept and great and friendly staff. Make sure to come by and check out Tim at the bar, he will make sure you get any taste tester and poor that your heart desires. They have wine, flights of beer , and growlers and cans you can take home. This is a must see when you come to Wilmington. Has an upstairs area that is peacefull and lots of sitting area.
The best beers are going to depend on your styles preference, but they have all sorts to please whatever beer drinker you are: porters, IPAs, lagers, and so many more. The staff is attentive and friendly. The prices are great. Flights begin at $12.
604 N 4th St, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
Tourist information center
Convention information bureau
Visitor Centers
Wilmington and Beaches CVB is a tourist information center providing visitors with information on attractions, events and places to stay in the Wilmington area. The visitor center is located at 201 N French Street in Wilmington and open Monday through Saturday 9am to 5pm.
Very nice visit. Will be going back at every opportunity.
John B — Google review
The view is awesome I really enjoyed my self a nice place to go if you need to relax and unwind but parking was hard to find and expensive
A comfortable place to hold meetings right in the river front. Parking and traffic can be cumbersome being so close to the college. It is part of the old train station so if you like history, there is a little sight seeing to do there. They also have Christmas readings for children during the holidays.
Nice sight and awesome to the community
Very disappointed that the Welcome Center website has posted Saturday hours of operation of 9 - 4 and when I went there and called I was informed that they are not open today. Didn't make me feel very welcome
Great place to receive info on events in the area.
Very good and informative info fro. Ladies working there. Grateful goes the tips and maps & brochures provided.
Had a blast was everything I thought it would be enjoyed my vacation and would and will go back
929 N Front St Suite 410, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
Beer garden
Bar
Cocktail bar
Nestled in the cargo district, Alcove Beer Garden offers a unique experience with containers stacked like Tetris blocks to create cozy corners for patrons. The spacious beer garden provides inside and outside seating, as well as an upstairs area overlooking the lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a nice selection of local beers while lounging with friends or grabbing delicious food from the nearby Mess Hall.
Service was absolutely amazing and very friendly. Got the smash burger and it is big and delicious. Great flavor with the bacon pieces in the patty too. Nice area layout as well.
Erica — Google review
I have heard from friends that the food is good also. I only had a beer while my wife visited stores nearby. The staff is friendly. I will be back
Definitely check out Cargo City when in Wilmington! Super cool set up of shops & bar/restaurants in shipping containers. Great selection of local brews on tap. Food was excellent! We had the Brussels tacos, street corn, & smash burger. Indoor & outdoor seating. Great vibe!
It's a seriously cool spot. Super nice staff, lots of open air seating, and now a TON of food options all around. If you're visiting Wilmington, you've got to drop by. Beer, food, craft vendors, and arcade next door? It's a hipsters paradise
This is a nice brewery in the cargo district. We belong to a local beer club and we had an event here on the 18th of September. There were probably about 50 of us that enjoyed some beer (wine for me), local shops to explore, and food from the Rude Bwoys Jerk BBQ (will do a separate review).
The beer garden is large with inside and outside tables/chairs. There's even seating upstairs that looks into the beer garden. There are planters on one wall and a cool spiral stair case.
This was a fun place, as you had the option to explore the surrounding area.
Host/cashier was very polite and helpful. Bartender served us 1 round of drinks and never came back to until maybe 15 minutes after I finished my beer.
UPDATE: I appreciate the response, but to be clear, I stayed seated at the bar the entire time. At no point did I leave to sit elsewhere. After being served my initial drink, bartender did not come back until long after finishing my beverage. As someone with years of bartending experience, I know how important attentive service is, and this fell short.
such a great vibe day and night🩷 i frequent alcove a couple times during the week and its my favorite way to top of my day. its clean, never too loud or too quiet. get one of the signature cocktails from steph, or blaize and faith make an amazing margarita. whichever bartender you get just know they'll knock it out the park EVERY time
** also the brussels tacos from beat street are really really good
Great spot for a beer and plenty of seating. Good beer choices~ Nice for large groups or just a couple of friends! Nice staff too.
348 Hutchison Ln, Wilmington, NC 28401, USA•
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