Must Try Restaurants in Wilmington, North Carolina

When it comes to eating out in Wilmington, North Carolina, the culinary scene is packed with spots you have to try. Whether you’re craving fine dining, baked goods, sushi, or the best burger in town, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the must-visit places that offer the best bites in Wilmington.

Fine Dining Favorites

If you follow me on social media, you know I have a few go-to spots, and for special occasions, Seabirds is at the top of my list. From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere sets the stage for an incredible experience. The food at Seabirds is outstanding, crafted with the highest quality ingredients and thoughtfully prepared in every dish.

The thoughtfulness of the presentation and quality of food can only be attributed to the chefs, Dean and Lydia. In 2019, Neff received a James Beard Foundation semifinalist nod for “Best Chef Southeast” and kicked off plans for Seabird, a place that celebrates Wilmington’s coastal food culture and the beauty of the seasons. Plus, Dean was also a semifinalist for the James Beard award in 2023 and made it to the finals for “Outstanding Chef” in 2024—how awesome is that?

RX RESTAURANT (OH MY GOSH, SO GOOD!)

When RX reopened, it quickly became one of Joe’s and my go-to spots for a meal. For about six months, we treated ourselves to a weekly visit after yoga, and honestly, it was hard to resist! This sea-to-table restaurant is all about fresh, local flavors, sourcing their seafood right off Topsail Island, Wrightsville, and Carolina Beach. They even farm their own oysters from their local oyster farm!

RX Seasonal Hand Pies

Everything on their menu is made from scratch, including their amazing breads and sauces. The fish dishes are top-notch, and those tacos? Pure bliss. But the real showstopper has to be their seasonal hand pies served with ice cream—my absolute favorite dessert in town! Each flavor highlights what’s fresh and in season, and they’re just incredible.

Girls Night / Date Night Favorites

Grimm Burger

The highly anticipated opening of Grimm Burger is finally here! After building a strong fanbase from their food truck, they’ve now set up a permanent location in the Mayfair district. Although I usually wait a few months before trying a new restaurant, I couldn’t resist stopping by within the first week—and it was worth every bite! Having tested all the burgers around Wilmington, I can confidently say Grimm Burger serves the best Smashburger-style burgers in town. Their fries are a must-have too—perfectly crispy and the ideal pairing for their incredible burgers.

Kipos Greek Taverna

Kipos has quickly become one of those places I find myself craving every week! Their food is consistently outstanding, with a menu that features authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. I highly recommend checking out their specials whenever you go—they’re always unique and showcase seasonal ingredients in the best way.

Ceviche’s

Ceviches is a go-to spot in Wilmington for fresh, bold flavors and vibrant Panamanian-inspired dishes! I’m absolutely obsessed with their empanadas and coconut shrimp—both are must-haves during your visit. This casual, quick-dining experience is packed with flavor, making it the perfect choice for a delicious and laid-back meal that’s full of excitement and zest. Be sure to try the guacamole sampler paired with their freshly made plantain chips for an unforgettable appetizer!

Lunchtime Favorite

No question about it—The Half is hands down the best sandwich shop around! Joe and I were surprised by how hard it was to find a truly good sandwich in town, especially after trying so many recommendations that just fell flat. But one day, I stumbled upon The Half while searching for nearby restaurants, and it was a game-changer.

What I love most is that they cater to everyone, with mouthwatering carnivore sandwiches loaded with quality meats and fantastic vegan options that don’t skimp on flavor. We tried a couple of their sandwiches, and each one was packed with flavor, perfectly crafted, and absolutely worth the calories! Honestly, everything we saw come out of the kitchen looked incredible—this place has the sandwich game down to perfection, no matter what you’re craving!

My Favorite Sushi

Genki Sushi is hands down the best sushi spot in Wilmington, NC, and here’s why. Their sushi is always fresh, with each bite showcasing high-quality fish and ingredients. The menu offers an impressive variety, from traditional rolls to unique creations, so every sushi lover can find something to enjoy. Their appetizers are equally fantastic—perfect for a quick snack or an addition to your meal, and they never disappoint. Plus, the friendly, welcoming vibe at Genki Sushi makes it a top choice for relaxing and savoring some of the best sushi in town.

Sweet Treat Favorites

If you’re after the best croissants and bread in Wilmington, Wilmington Bread Company is a must-visit! Their sliced sourdough bread has become a staple in our home—Joe won’t eat anything else now and needs at least one slice a day!

Made with organic, locally-sourced grains milled right in North Carolina (some even in-house), their bread has an incredible depth of flavor. Thanks to their strong partnerships with local millers, each batch maximizes natural flavors.

The Best Homemade Bread

From sourdough bagels and pizza dough to fresh weekly breads and pastries, their offerings are always worth trying. And while we love their sourdough sandwich bread, the almond croissants are the real showstopper—we grab one every time we’re at the farmer’s market. They also pop up at local stores, so keep an eye on their schedule!

Kilwins

Kilwins has been one of my favorites since my Michigan days, and the Wilmington location is every bit as irresistible! Right in historic downtown, the sweet smell of freshly made waffle cones and fudge pulls you in from the Riverwalk. As soon as you step inside, you’re hit with the warm aromas of house-made chocolate, creamy ice cream, and treats crafted fresh daily. Watching their handmade sweets being prepared in-store adds a fun touch—perfect for grabbing a treat as you stroll around Wilmington’s charming downtown.

Britt’s Donuts

I did the legwork for you, folks! Joe and I indulged in so many doughnuts, and we finally discovered the best of the best: Britt’s Donuts! While technically in Carolina Beach, Britt’s is a must for any doughnut lover—and trust me, it’s worth the drive. This iconic spot has been serving their legendary homemade glazed donuts since 1939, now under the ownership of Bobby Nivens and his wife for over 40 years. Frequently making national top 10 lists, Britt’s even helped Carolina Beach’s boardwalk land on USA Today’s “best boardwalks for food” list. The beach views and melt-in-your-mouth donuts make for the ultimate treat!

Wilmington’s vibrant food scene is filled with must-try spots, and I’m always discovering new favorites. Whether you’re craving fine dining or a casual burger, this coastal city truly has something for everyone!