Best Restaurants in Wilmington NC (2025)

Chef Dean Neff’s bright downtown dining room celebrates North Carolina seafood, from raw-bar treasures to seasonal plates. Featured by Wilmington’s CVB and local media, and tied closely to the fishing community, it feels quintessentially coastal.

A Market Street standard for Southern, seasonal cooking with nightly changing menus sourced from local fishers and farms. Frequently praised by Southern Living and regional critics for its sense of place and polished hospitality.

Keith Rhodes’ longtime spot champions sustainably sourced Cape Fear seafood with global flair. Lauded by The Local Palate and a James Beard semifinalist, it remains a reliable place to taste Wilmington’s waters on a plate.

A beloved Thai–Vietnamese landmark known for its lush garden and generous, crowd-pleasing plates. Regularly recommended by Eater Carolinas and Southern Living; locals keep it packed year-round.

Chefs Sunny Gerhart and Lauren Krall Ivey weave Spanish, Italian, and New Orleans influences into house-made pastas and wood-fired mains. Named one of USA Today’s Restaurants of the Year, it’s one of downtown’s buzziest reservations.

Chef-owner Sam Cahoon riffs on Latin flavors with local ingredients in a lively, compact space. Recognized by Southern Living and noted by state media for standout brunch, it’s a downtown spot with a big personality.

Drawing on Panamanian roots, this beachside favorite serves bright ceviches, seafood stews, and rum-friendly cocktails. Frequently recommended by Southern Living and kept current with strong diner reviews and reservations.

An intimate downtown dining room known for creative New American plates, a deep wine list, and a serious cocktail program. Praised by local critics and a multi–year AAA Four Diamond recipient.

A family-run modern Southern seafood restaurant inside a relocated 1920s bungalow. Celebrated by local media for thoughtful plates and oysters, it channels coastal traditions with a fresh point of view.

Vivian Howard’s South Front hangout brings wood-fired pies, fresh pastas, and playful antipasti to a lively neighborhood space. Regularly highlighted by Southern Living and beloved by locals for celebratory, shareable meals.

A longtime French staple from chef-owners Thierry and Patricia Moity. Classic dishes, charming service, and a timeless upstairs lounge have earned consistent acclaim from regional publications and diners alike.

Midtown’s refined neighborhood restaurant pairs thoughtful cocktails with a menu of American and coastal staples, from chicken and dumplings to crab pastas. Spotlighted by Eater Carolinas and local magazines for its elegant comfort.