The Riverwalk in Wilmington, NC is a beautiful place to have a stroll and look out over the Cape Fear River. The USS NC Battleship is directly across from the riverfront making it a perfect backdrop for pictures. As the sun sets you will be enchanted by the historic charm of Wilmington after dark with specialty shops and restaurants. Wilmington offers a wonderful array of restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the most popular:
You can save on merchandise, tickets, tours, food, hotels, and more through our affiliations. Our website is supported by our users. If you make purchases through the links in this post, we may be compensated, at no additional cost to you. Contact us for more information.
Best Restaurants List
The Pilot House Restaurant & Lounge
2 Ann St
Wilmington, NC 28401
Located in the historic Cotton Exchange Building, the Pilot House offers a spectacular waterfront view. Enjoy fresh seafood, steaks, and other classic American fare. All of the dishes made at The Pilot House are prepared with fresh local meat, poultry, vegetables, and sustainable seafood. According to their website, “Cooked with seafood and fowl, indigenous to our area. Our menu ranges from “down home cooking”, to Cajun, as well as fused traditional Southern fare with a contemporary twist.”
The Copper Penny
109 Chestnut St.
Wilmington, NC 28408
Located in historical downtown Wilmington, the Copper Penny offers an eclectic mix of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches along with an extensive selection of mixed drinks and beers.
Serving up some of the best affordable food and drinks in Wilmington, the Copper Penny’s relaxed atmosphere is the perfect place for lunch, dinner, or drinks with friends.
Elijah’s
2 Ann Street
Wilmington, NC 28408
For an exceptional fine-dining experience in Wilmington, Elijah’s is an outstanding choice. Situated with a stunning riverfront deck that offers views of the Cape Fear River, this restaurant has been serving up exquisite cuisine since 1984. Indulge in a romantic sunset with a plate of their delectable Goat Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Oysters. Despite its upscale atmosphere, Elijah’s caters to families as well, with a menu designed for little ones.
The Fork & Cork
122 Market St
Wilmington, NC 28408
Fork N Cork received recognition from the Food Network’s show Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives, with Guy Fieri being particularly fond of their confit duck wings and beef wellington bites, which are widely popular among diners. If you decide to visit this restaurant, be prepared to be swept off your feet by the Hot Mess Burger or the spicy orange-habanero and hot honey garlic wings.
Front Street Brewery
9 N Front St
Wilmington, NC 28401
Front Street Brewery is more than just a place to grab a beer. It has large variety of menu items with dining options at the bar or table service. After 27 years in the restaurant industry, they offer 14 beers on tap, 485 bourbons and whiskeys, and 109 craft beer awards!
Slice of Life
125 Market St
Wilmington, NC 28408
Slice offers a diversified menu that includes: salads, tacos, homemade soups, nachos, subs and of course, pizza. Their pizza is made daily in-house with purified water. They only serve the freshest and highest quality ingredients in all of our food. Slice of Life has the largest tequila selection in Wilmington.
Michael’s on the Waterfront
5 South Water Street
Wilmington, NC 28401
Michael’s on the Waterfront is one of Downtown Wilmington’s newest eateries. A gastropub style restaurant serving American cuisine with a creative twist – taking inspiration from many cultures.
Dram Yard & Gazebo Bar
101 South 2nd St
Wilmington, NC 28408
Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Dram Yard offers dinners featuring Southern coastal flavors with a global twist. Featuring craft cocktails, carefully curated wine and beer offerings, and thoughtful preparations of locally sourced ingredients makes this a place to visit often.
Savorez
402 Chestnut St
Wilmington, NC 28408
Savorez is the evolution of the Spanish word Sabores, meaning flavors. Sabores…Savor…Savorez! The restaurant is inspired by the vibrant flavors and colorful cuisine of Latin cultures. While sourcing locally and staying true to their North Carolinian roots, Chef Sam Cahoon has successfully honed his own style of cooking. His beautifully crafted cuisine is his southern take and tribute to Latin flavors.
Discover Wilmington Tours
