Restaurants

There is an abundant choice of restaurants in Wilmington, NC. Fabulous seafood restaurants serving fresh, local fish, oysters, and ocean fare can be found across the entire county. Ethic options such as Thai, Indian and Italian restaurants are thriving as the population continues to grow along the coast. For those looking for an upscale culinary experience, see our fine dining section for some of the best restaurants in the Wilmington, NC area. 

This elegant, refurbished riverboat is a large, three-level, paddle-free vessel with capacity for 600 guests. The Henrietta III is so spacious that it can accommodate three separate events. For instance, a wedding party, a private celebration and a public dinner cruise all at the same time. Cruise Cape Fear River in...read more

Circa has become renowned for serving a tapas-style menu which allows you and your companions to create your own dining experience by sharing several small plates of specialties from around the world, or you can order individually by course. Each course is marked by the quality and exceptional service that makes...read more

Deluxe epitomizes creative in-fill with its authentic 19th century architecture graced by an exquisite menu paired with an eclectic decor of art deco, abstract expressionism, wood sculpture, glasswork and fresh flowers. Featured artwork on exhibit at Deluxe rotates every 10weeks. It's a sublime and friendly environment for enjoying excellent New American-style...read more

No one can say they've been to Wilmington until they've tried Elijah's crab dip. Situated on Cape Fear River, Elijah's offers traditional Lowcountry fare as well as such delights as oysters Rockefeller, Shrimp and Scallops Elijah, and mahi fettuccine. Elijah's is two restaurants in one: the oyster bar, which includes outdoor deck...read more

Founded on the simple joys of a good beer and a hearty Italian meal, Fat Tony's Italian Pub offers plenty of both. They have a selection of 24 draft beers, more than anywhere else downtown, and their menu is filled with generous helpings of fresh and flavorful Italian favorites. Begin your...read more

Front Street Brewery is a spacious eatery and microbrewery located in historic downtown Wilmington. Every menu item, including reasonably priced appetizers, soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches, entrees and gourmet desserts, is made from scratch with the freshest available ingredients. The building has been completely renovated and features amazing woodwork and beautiful decor, creating an upscale yet cozy environment. Nine handcrafted beers are made by the...read more

The Cape Fear River is a scenic focal point of the Wilmington landscape, and The George is situated right on its eastern bank, even boasting facilities for your boat to create a unique dock-and-dine experience. Once you have secured your craft, you'll delight at the unique and sumptuous selections featured in...read more

An institution in downtown Wilmington, this intimate restaurant in the Cotton Exchange transports you back to friendly neighborhood pubs with an Irish flavor. Seating consists of high-backed wooden booths, tables and chairs or stools at the bar where you can have a brew and a bite while catching up with the...read more

The Pilot House is among the preeminent dining establishments downtown. Overlooking the Cape Fear River at Chandler's Wharf, the restaurant occupies the historic Craig House (circa 1870) and strives for innovations with high-quality Southern regional cooking. The wide-ranging dinner menu features sauted and char-grilled seafood, beef and chicken, pan-seared duck, pasta...read more

For a blend of deep south comfort food and European flair, try Press 102 for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The "press" in their name is a nod to the item featured most prominently on the menu, paninis. For breakfast or lunch, try the Cape Fear Panini (shaved house-smoked pork, pickled onions...read more

Owner/chef Mary Long brings gourmet soul food to Wilmington at The Basics. Long moved to Wilmington in 2007 and immediately began looking for a restaurant spot to bring southern soul food traditions to the city. Using fresh vegetables and fruits that thrive in our climate and incorporating cultural traditions from Africa,...read more

This downtown eatery has more than two decades on most other restaurants in the area. Offering the finest in Mediterranean cuisine infused with many other influences, Caffe Phoenix combines delicious food with a casual and comfortable environmentin a beautifully renovated 150 year old building. Owner Roy Clifton says its original name...read more

The setting is perfect. Historic Downtown Wilmington's riverfront is within view, bricked streets lead to quaint boutiques, and a period horse-drawn carriage passes by regularly. Though lace curtains adorn the windows and white tablecloths drape the tables, Caprice Bistro's atmosphere is one of friendly, casual ease and, it provides a glimpse...read more

If you're looking for a laid-back pub atmosphere with tastier fare than you'd be likely to find in a pub, you'll flip for The Copper Penny. Incorporating many of co-owner Christine Cadwallader's family recipes, including her dad's award-winning chili, the menu has expanded significantly from the restaurant's early sandwich days. Definitely...read more

The fun atmosphere attracted local filmmakers, and you'll have the same devilish experience at Hell's Kitchen. Formerly a set for the locally filmed Dawson's Creek, Hell's Kitchen is a popular downtown destination for good times among friends. Stop by and try something from their menu of pub sandwiches, wraps, fajitas, nachos,...read more

For a unique, participatory and fun dining experience, try The Little Dipper Fondue on Front. The Little Dipper's menu features premium meats, fresh seafood, vegetables, breads and homemade dipping sauces. The full fondue experience starts with the cheese course, followed by salad, then the entree of meats and/or vegetables with dipping...read more

Nikki's is one of the hippest eateries in the downtown area. Voted #1 by locals for best sushi and best vegetarian dishes each year since 2006, Nikki's features numerous organic and vegetarian dishes. For sushi fans, this Front Street spot is not to be missed. Try their succulent Angel Hair Roll...read more

While Reel Cafe is known for its delicious seafood dishes, pastas and sandwiches, its rooftop bar may be one of the best reasons for visiting the local favorite. Reel Cafe opened more than ten years ago as a total entertainment complex. There's a musical event each night in the courtyard Oyster...read more

Enjoy a panoramic sunset over the Battleship North Carolina from one of the nine intimate two-seater balconies that overlook the Cape Fear River at Riverboat Landing. This downtown landmark restaurant is located at the foot of Market and Water streets, nestled in a building that dates to the 1800s. A newly...read more

Always classy, never fussy, Ruth's Chris Steak House is the world's number one USDA prime grade steak house. They serve the finest, never frozen, corn-fed beef, seared to perfection and served in Ruth's signature fashion...sizzling. The a la carte menu offers entrees, side dishes and desserts. Their convenient location within the...read more

Centrally located in historic downtown Wilmington, Trolly Stop serves a specially produced Smithfield all-meat dog, all-beef Sabrett dogs, no-carb veggie dogs and low fat/no-carb turkey dogs in a variety of combinations. Local favorites include the American (chili, mustard and onion), the Cape Fear (melted cheese and mayonnaise) and, naturally, the North...read more

Enjoy a delicious lunch or a pot of tea and a scone at the delightful Wilmington Tea Room in historic downtown Wilmington. Tea connoisseurs and novices alike will appreciate their selection of high-quality imported teas. A popular menu option is the Full Tea, which includes choice of soup or salad, assorted...read more

Upstairs in the historic Roudabush building at Front and Dock Streets, Yosake features yummy sushi and a full pan-Asian menu served amid Tokyo vogue décor. Specials include Shanghai Firecracker Shrimp and Steamed Pork Dumplings. The bar boasts an eclectic collection of wine, sake, and beer as well as specialty drinks like...read more

The following price codes are based on the average price for two dinner entrees only. For restaurants not serving dinner, the codes reflect mid-priced lunch entrees for two. Dual codes indicate that lunch and dinner prices vary significantly. The price codes do not reflect the state/county sales tax or gratuities.

$ Less than $20
$$ $20 to $30
$$$ $31 to $45
$$$$ More than $45