5 Best Restaurants in Wilmington, North Carolina to Try

On the Atlantic coast, Wilmington is a blend of Southern charm, salt air, and a vibrant arts/college scene.

Its best restaurants showcase the region’s legendary seafood, creative young chefs, and time-honored Southern soul.

1. Circa 1922

Housed in a historic downtown bank, Circa 1922 is the city’s top spot for globally inspired small plates and sushi—think crispy crab-stuffed deviled eggs, truffled risotto, and delicate tuna sashimi.

The bar crafts creative cocktails and pours local craft brews, the jazz soundtrack hums, and every meal feels like both a treat and a comfort.

2. Indochine

A Wilmington legend, Indochine is equal parts destination and cultural treasure: Thai and Vietnamese classics (pad thai, crispy red curry duck, pho, coconut ice cream) served in a lush, garden-filled oasis with twinkling lanterns.

It’s a date-night favorite, but families and students flock here for generous portions, affordable prices, and the magical, vacation-vibe setting.

3. Dock Street Oyster Bar

Blocks from the riverfront, Dock Street is all about beachy, raucous fun and the freshest possible platters of oysters, shrimp, and fish—raw, steamed, fried, or grilled.

Staff joke with regulars, tables ring with laughter, and the “shrimp burger” is an essential bite of the Cape Fear region.

4. Rx Restaurant & Bar

Set in a rehabbed old pharmacy, Rx fuses downhome comfort and cutting-edge chef talent: fried green tomatoes, buttermilk fried chicken, Appalachian trout, house pickles, and creative cocktails.

Sourcing from area farms is a point of pride, and service is as polished as it is warm. It’s the “talk of the town” for foodie locals.

5. Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream

For dessert, Boombalatti’s is a must—local cream, inventive flavors (sweet potato, bourbon caramel, Cape Fear coffee crunch), and vegan scoops in a cheery, always-busy downtown shop.

It’s a Wilmington tradition to end every meal—or midsummer day—here, cone in hand, feet in the sand.