RankNC – Discover North Carolina's Best: Reviews, Rankings & Insights

Search
Close this search box.

Best Dining In The Greater Wilmington Area

Best Dining In The Greater Wilmington, NC Area - Elijah's Restaurant Entrance
Elijah's Restaurant Entrance

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through our links we may be compensated at no cost to you.

Welcome to our guide to the best dining in the Greater Wilmington area, where culinary delights await your palate.

From waterfront seafood restaurants to cozy diners serving southern classics, there’s a dining destination to suit every taste and occasion.

Indulge in this vibrant coastal city’s memorable evening of delicious food and charming ambiance.

RankNC's Top Picks

From seafood specialties to international cuisine, these restaurants offer delicious dishes and inviting atmospheres for a memorable dining experience. 

Experience culinary excellence and Southern hospitality at these top dinner spots in the Greater Wilmington area.

1. Elijah’s Restaurant

Wilmington

Indulge in fresh seafood and waterfront views at Elijah’s Restaurant.

Located on the historic Wilmington Riverwalk, this beloved eatery offers a menu featuring locally sourced seafood dishes, steaks, and pasta.

For a truly memorable dining experience, enjoy dining on the outdoor patio overlooking the Cape Fear River.

Best Dining In The Greater Wilmington Area - Elijah's Restaurant Scallops
Elijah's Restaurant Scallops

2. Catch

Wilmington

Savor innovative coastal cuisine at Catch, a modern seafood restaurant in downtown Wilmington.

Featuring a seasonal menu highlighting fresh catches and creative flavors, Catch offers a dining experience that celebrates the sea’s bounty.

Don’t miss the oyster bar and craft cocktails for a complete culinary experience.

3. RX Restaurant and Bar

Wilmington

Dine in style at RX Restaurant and Bar, a farm-to-table eatery in Wilmington’s historic downtown district.

With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavors, RX offers a menu of elevated Southern cuisine in a cozy and intimate setting.

Be sure to try the chef’s tasting menu for a culinary journey through the region’s flavors.

4. Port Land Grille

Wilmington

Experience fine dining at Port Land Grille, an upscale restaurant offering gourmet cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Featuring a menu of handcrafted dishes made with the freshest ingredients, Port Land Grille is known for its impeccable service and extensive wine list.

Treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at this culinary gem.

5. PinPoint Restaurant

Wilmington

Discover Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist at PinPoint Restaurant.

Located in Wilmington’s historic downtown, PinPoint offers a menu of seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

From farm-fresh salads to savory entrees, each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail for a truly memorable dining experience.

6. The George on the Riverwalk

Wilmington

Enjoy casual waterfront dining at The George on the Riverwalk.

Situated on the scenic Wilmington Riverwalk, this laid-back restaurant offers restaurant American classics with a Southern flair.

Dine on the outdoor patio and soak in views of the Cape Fear River while enjoying delicious food and refreshing cocktails.

7. Ceviche’s

Wilmington

Transport your taste buds to Latin America at Ceviche’s, a cozy restaurant specializing in Peruvian and Latin American cuisine.

From ceviche to empanadas, the menu features a variety of authentic dishes bursting with flavor.

Pair your meal with a refreshing Pisco sour or sangria for the perfect South American dining experience.

8. The Little Dipper

Wilmington

Indulge in a fondue experience at The Little Dipper, a charming restaurant offering interactive dining in downtown Wilmington.

Choose from various cheese, meat, and dessert fondues and cook your meal at the table.

With a cozy ambiance and attentive service, The Little Dipper is perfect for a romantic evening or special celebration.

9. Bluewater Waterfront Grill

Wrightsville Beach

Dine with a view at Bluewater Waterfront Grill, a popular restaurant on the Intracoastal Waterway in Wrightsville Beach.

Offering a menu of fresh seafood, steaks, and cocktails, Bluewater combines delicious food with panoramic views of the water.

Relax on the outdoor patio and enjoy the coastal ambiance while savoring your meal.

10. Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Wilmington

Treat yourself to a steakhouse experience at Ruth’s Chris Steak House, a renowned restaurant chain known for its sizzling steaks and elegant ambiance.

In Wilmington’s Mayfaire Town Center, Ruth’s Chris offers a menu of prime cuts of beef, seafood, and indulgent sides.

Whether celebrating a special occasion or craving a delicious meal, Ruth’s Chris Steak House delivers a memorable dining experience.

Conclusion

The Greater Wilmington area offers diverse dining options, from fresh seafood to international flavors, to satisfy every palate.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic waterfront dinner or a casual meal with friends, this vibrant coastal destination offers plenty of delicious choices.

Picture of The Doirons

The Doirons

Our mission is to get you to encounter the unlimited potential that North Carolina has to offer and experience it to the fullest. RankNC is designed to be a source of research, inspiration, and ideas for those who refuse to settle for anything less than an extraordinary time. On this website, we will openly and passionately share the very best that NC has to offer as my family and I continue to discover this beautiful state.
Editorial Process:


Experts make our reviews before being written and come from real-world experience and research. Read our editorial process here.

Some links in this article may be affiliate links, which can compensate us at no cost to you if you purchase from our partners. We’ve personally researched, used, and stand behind these products. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

Greater Wilmington Area Quick Links
Scroll to Top