If you’re in a town where the largest employer is the hospitality or service industry, one thing is clear: that town loves to eat out.
That is certainly the case here in the Cape Fear region. From Calabash near the state border, traveling northeast through Wilmington and New Hanover County, all the way to Surf City near the Pender/Onslow county line, there are approximately 1,000 restaurants in our area. Obviously, no local has tried every place, and if you’re coming from out of town, where would you even start?
Well, this article may help!
The online consumer website Yelp recently set out to rank not just restaurants in this area, but throughout all of North Carolina. Using customer reviews and feedback posted on the site, Yelp created a list of the top 100 eateries in the state. Here are the places in the Cape Fear region that made the list:
Island Burgers & Bites
- Location: 111 Carl Winner Drive, Carolina Beach
- Ranking: #5
This no-frills burger joint inside a convenience store might surprise you. It’s a year-round hit with locals and a top contender on Yelp’s list. The burgers are juicy, flavorful, and consistently earn rave reviews.
Savorez
- Location: 402 Chestnut St., Wilmington
- Ranking: #9
Known for its Latin-inspired dishes with Southern flair, Savorez has become a beloved downtown spot. Must-try menu items include tuna tacos, Crispy Quinoa Flounder, and vegan rellenos, making it a go-to brunch location.
Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant
- Location: 6132 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington
- Ranking: #48
A classic seafood restaurant serving everything from lobster bisque to fried flounder, Fish Bites is a favorite for its fresh dishes and welcoming service.
Cape Fear Seafood Company
- Location: 5226 College Road, Wilmington
- Ranking: #49
This popular seafood chain has several locations, but its Monkey Junction spot earned a place on Yelp’s list. Known for its laid-back vibe and fresh seafood, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers.
Copper Penny
Copper Penny- Location: 109 Chestnut St., Wilmington
- Ranking: #51
This downtown Wilmington pub offers an array of crowd-pleasing dishes. Whether it’s the famous 109 Chestnut Chicken Sandwich or Ft. Fisher Fish and Chips, there’s something for everyone at this cozy spot.
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria
- Location: 206 Greenfield St., Wilmington
- Ranking: #83
Nestled in the South Front District, Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria combines rustic charm with top-notch pizza. The Tony Pepperoni pizza and chicken parmesan are fan favorites.
The Basics
- Location: 319 N. Front St., Wilmington
- Ranking: #96
Located in the Cotton Exchange, The Basics serves up Southern-inspired comfort food. From the Southern Benedict to the Fried Chicken BLT, this spot has become a staple for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Brunswick County’s Best
Salt 64
- Location: Oak Island
- Ranking: #19
The only Brunswick County representative, Salt 64 is known for its inviting atmosphere and must-try dishes like Crack Toast and perfectly cooked steaks.
Pender County’s Pick
Shaka Taco
- Location: 107 B, N. Shore Drive, Surf City
- Ranking: #25
Surf City’s Shaka Taco offers a laid-back vibe and flavorful tacos, earning it a spot as the top restaurant in Pender County. Whether it’s fish, pork, or chicken, these tacos pack a punch.