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

Search
Close this search box.

Best Dining On The North Carolina Coast

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

Welcome to the ultimate guide to the best restaurants for dinner on the North Carolina coast!

Indulge in culinary delights at Ocean’s Edge in Duck, serving fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.

Savor Southern cuisine at Elijah’s in Wilmington, offering waterfront dining and delicious seafood dishes.

Enjoy Italian classics at Ristorante Riva in Wrightsville Beach, known for its homemade pasta and cozy ambiance.

Whether you’re craving seafood, Southern fare, or Italian cuisine, North Carolina’s coast has it all. Join us as we uncover the top destinations for a memorable dinner experience.

RankNC's Top Picks

Indulge in delectable coastal cuisine and unforgettable dining experiences at these top restaurants for dinner along the picturesque shores of the North Carolina Coast.

1. Chef & The Farmer

Location: Kinston

Savor innovative farm-to-table dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients at Chef & The Farmer, where Southern flavors and culinary creativity come together to create an exceptional dining experience.

2. Oceanic Restaurant

Location: Wrightsville Beach

Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning ocean views at Oceanic Restaurant, a beachfront dining destination known for its extensive seafood menu, handcrafted cocktails, and relaxed coastal ambiance.

Best Dining On The North Carolina Coast - Oceanic Restaurant
Oceanic Restaurant - Wrightsville Beach, NC

3. The George on the Riverwalk

Location: Wilmington

Dine in style at The George on the Riverwalk, where elevated Southern cuisine meets waterfront elegance, offering scenic views of the Cape Fear River and a menu featuring seasonal dishes and artisanal cocktails.

4. Stripers Bar & Grille

Location: Manteo

Experience waterfront dining at its finest at Stripers Bar & Grille, where panoramic views of the marina complement a menu of fresh seafood, steaks, and coastal classics, all served with warm Southern hospitality.

Best Dining On The North Carolina Coast - Stripers Bar and Grill
Stripers Bar and Grill - Manteo, NC

5. Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar

Location: Manteo

Dine al fresco on the waterfront patio or indoors in the cozy dining room at Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar, where the menu features a diverse selection of seafood, steaks, and sushi, all made with the freshest local ingredients.

6. Catch Restaurant & Wine Bar

Location: Wilmington

Discover culinary delights at Catch Restaurant & Wine Bar, a cozy lounge offering an ever-changing menu of seasonal dishes paired with an extensive wine list, ensuring a memorable dining experience in the heart of Wilmington.

Best Dining On The North Carolina Coast - Catch Restaurant & Wine Bar
Catch Restaurant & Wine Bar in Wilmington, NC

7. Blue Moon Beach Grill

Location: Nags Head

Relish in coastal comfort food and creative cocktails at Blue Moon Beach Grill, a laid-back eatery known for its eclectic menu, friendly service, and lively beach vibe, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Conclusion

The North Carolina Coast offers diverse dining options to satisfy every palate, from upscale waterfront bistros to casual seafood shacks. Whether you’re craving fresh seafood, Southern classics, or international flavors, these top restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary experience amidst the stunning backdrop of the coast.

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.

North Carolina Coast Quick Links
Scroll to Top