Best Places to Eat in Wilmington: Your Ultimate 2025 Culinary Guide
Wilmington, a name shared by vibrant cities in both Delaware and North Carolina, is a haven for food lovers seeking diverse dining experiences. From historic Southern eateries to innovative coastal cuisine, Wilmington’s culinary scenes offer something for every palate. This guide explores the best places to eat in Wilmington, covering the best places to eat in Wilmington, DE, the best places to eat lunch in Wilmington, NC, good places to eat in Wilmington, Delaware, the top 10 places to eat in Wilmington, NC, and the best places to eat in downtown Wilmington, NC. Whether you’re craving seafood, Italian, or vegan fare, this guide will help you plan your 2025 culinary adventure in Wilmington.
- Best Places to Eat in Wilmington, DE
- Best Places to Eat Lunch in Wilmington, NC
- Good Places to Eat in Wilmington, Delaware
- Top 10 Places to Eat in Wilmington, NC
- Best Places to Eat in Downtown Wilmington, NC
1. Best Places to Eat in Wilmington, DE
Wilmington, Delaware, just a short trip from Philadelphia, is undergoing a culinary renaissance, blending historic charm with modern innovation. The city’s dining scene offers everything from classic American fare to creative international dishes. Here are the best places to eat in Wilmington, DE for 2025, based on quality, atmosphere, and local acclaim:
Le Cavalier
Located in the historic Hotel Du Pont, Le Cavalier is a French brasserie that elevates Wilmington’s fine dining scene. Chef Tyler Akin’s menu features elegant dishes like poached lobster tails in sauce américaine and French onion soup with a three-cheese lid. The high-ceiled dining room with velvet banquettes adds a touch of sophistication, making it ideal for special occasions. Expect entrees priced between $20–$40, with brunch and lunch options available.
The Quoin
Housed in a renovated bank building, The Quoin offers New American cuisine with Italian influences. The airy restaurant serves seasonal dishes like crispy octopus with chickpeas and artichoke lasagna, perfect for a date night or celebration. Its basement cocktail bar, Simmer Down, and rooftop bar add to the experience. Prices range from $15–$35 for entrees, with a lively atmosphere.
Bardea Food & Drink
A James Beard Award semifinalist, Bardea is a must-visit for creative Italian cuisine. Chef Antimo DiMeo blends international flavors, offering dishes like yuzu-preserved avocado with pineapple mostarda. The buzzing atmosphere and innovative menu make it a standout. Entrees range from $18–$40, with a nearby sister restaurant, Bardea Steak, for meat lovers.
Scalessa’s
For old-school Italian comfort food, Scalessa’s is a local favorite. This casual spot serves hearty dishes like Sunday Gravy (rigatoni with pork and sausage) and meatball salads. Its homey vibe is perfect for families or casual dinners, with entrees priced at $12–$25.
The Charcoal Pit
A Wilmington staple since 1956, The Charcoal Pit is a nostalgic diner with black-and-white tiled floors and red leather booths. Known for cheeseburgers, onion rings, and black-and-white milkshakes, it’s a go-to for classic American fare. Burgers start at $8, making it budget-friendly.
Tips for Dining in Wilmington, DE:
- Book reservations for Le Cavalier and Bardea, especially for dinner.
- Explore the Riverfront area for scenic dining options.
- Check TripAdvisor for updated reviews and seasonal menus.
2. Best Places to Eat Lunch in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, North Carolina, is a coastal foodie haven with a vibrant lunch scene, particularly in its historic downtown and beachside areas. The best places to eat lunch in Wilmington, NC offer fresh seafood, Southern comfort food, and global flavors, perfect for a midday break:
Drift Coffee Shop & Kitchen
Tucked behind the Riverwalk, Drift Coffee Shop & Kitchen is a chic spot for breakfast and lunch, known for its gluten-free options. Favorites include the Biscoff Stack pancakes, Nutella Stuffed French Toast, and crispy potato brekkie bowl. Prices range from $8–$15, and the laid-back vibe is perfect for a relaxed lunch. A second location in Wrightsville Beach is equally delightful.
The Copper Penny
Located on Front Street, The Copper Penny is a downtown favorite for casual lunch. This eclectic saloon serves sandwiches, salads, and local craft beers. Standouts include the “Beer-B-Q” Pork Taco and taco bowl, paired with a margarita. Expect prices of $10–$20 and a lively patio atmosphere.
Marina Grill
A waterfront eatery, Marina Grill offers a diverse lunch menu with flatbreads, tacos, and vegan options. The brunch menu (available Saturdays) includes creative dishes like jerk chicken and steak frites. Prices range from $9–$25, with scenic marina views enhancing the experience.
Savorez
For Latin-inspired flavors, Savorez is a standout lunch spot. Chef Sam Cahoon’s menu features ceviche, short rib arepas, and blackened tuna with cilantro-lime quinoa. Prices range from $12–$25, and the vibrant, walkable location makes it ideal for lunch near downtown.
The Kitchen Sink
A local gem, The Kitchen Sink offers a creative lunch menu with dishes like shrimp po-boys and oxtail egg rolls. Known for fresh, made-to-order food, it’s perfect for a quick yet flavorful meal. Prices range from $10–$18, with a cozy, casual vibe.
Tips for Lunch in Wilmington, NC:
- Arrive early for popular spots like The Copper Penny, as wait times can be long.
- Check for daily specials, especially at seafood-focused restaurants.
- Use OpenTable for reservations at busy lunch spots.
3. Good Places to Eat in Wilmington, Delaware
Wilmington, Delaware, offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. These good places to eat in Wilmington, Delaware are local favorites for their quality, atmosphere, and value:
Big Fish Grill on the Riverfront
Located along the Wilmington Riverfront, Big Fish Grill is a seafood haven with dishes like lobster spinach dip and mixed seafood platters. The vibrant atmosphere and scenic views make it great for families or groups. Entrees range from $15–$30, with attentive service.
The Greenhouse Gastropub
A modern gastropub, The Greenhouse offers a diverse menu with burgers, salads, and craft beers. The lively setting and outdoor seating are perfect for casual dining. Prices range from $10–$20, making it a budget-friendly option.
Coterie Cafe + Kitchen
For a cozy, health-conscious meal, Coterie Cafe serves fresh salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. Its welcoming vibe and affordable prices ($8–$15) make it a great spot for lunch or dinner.
Del Pez Mexican Gastropub
On the Riverfront, Del Pez offers Mexican and South American dishes like tacos and empanadas. Its vibrant atmosphere and reasonable prices ($10–$20) make it a local favorite.
The Farmer and the Cow
Featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives, The Farmer and the Cow is a burger hotspot with creative options like the “Moo & Oink” (beef and bacon patty). Burgers start at $10, and the casual vibe is perfect for a laid-back meal.
Tips for Dining in Wilmington, DE:
- Explore the Riverfront for a mix of dining and scenic walks.
- Check Yelp for real-time reviews and wait times.
- Visit during happy hour for discounts on drinks and appetizers.
4. Top 10 Places to Eat in Wilmington, NC
Wilmington, North Carolina, is a culinary hotspot with a thriving dining scene that spans seafood, Southern fare, and international cuisine. Here are the top 10 places to eat in Wilmington, NC, based on quality, creativity, and local popularity:
- Seabird: A coastal gem by chefs Lydia Clopton and Dean Neff, Seabird offers seafood-focused dishes like swordfish schnitzel and smoked catfish pie. Prices range from $15–$35, with a popular weekend brunch.
- Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria: Known for wood-fired pizzas and a lively atmosphere, this spot serves classics like margherita and unique lemon pizza. Entrees cost $12–$25, with gelato for dessert.
- Prost Biergarten: A German-inspired eatery with spatzle mac and cheese and fried flounder sandwiches. Prices range from $10–$20, with a great selection of brews.
- Savorez: This Latin-inspired restaurant offers ceviche, tacos, and blackened tuna. Prices range from $12–$25, with a vibrant, walkable location.
- Circa 1922: A downtown staple for 11 years, Circa 1922 serves creative American dishes with an Asian flair, like sushi and steak. Entrees cost $15–$30, with a romantic ambiance.
- Indochine Restaurant: Offering upscale Vietnamese and Thai cuisine, Indochine’s exotic garden setting and dishes like curry and spring rolls are a hit. Prices range from $12–$25.
- The Pilot House: A historic seafood restaurant since 1978, it offers crab melts and Lowcountry inspired dishes with Cape Fear River views. Prices range from $15–$30.
- Floriana Wilmington: An Italian bistro with seasonal pastas and meats, located riverside at 2 Market Street. Entrees cost $15–$35, with a cozy atmosphere.
- Dram Yard: At the ARRIVE Hotel, Dram Yard serves Southern coastal dishes with global twists, like shrimp and grits. Prices range from $15–$30, with a great brunch.
- TacoBaby: A new downtown spot with tacos, burritos, and house-made salsas. Prices range from $8–$15, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal.
Tips for Dining in Wilmington, NC:
- Make reservations for Seabird, Floriana, and Circa 1922, especially on weekends.
- Explore the Cargo District for newer, trendy spots like Salita Pizza.
- Check Southern Living’s list for additional recommendations.
5. Best Places to Eat in Downtown Wilmington, NC
Downtown Wilmington, NC, is a foodie paradise with historic charm and a vibrant dining scene along the Cape Fear River. The best places to eat in downtown Wilmington, NC offer a mix of seafood, Southern fare, and global cuisine:
The Basics
A farmhouse-style restaurant, The Basics is a downtown favorite for Southern cuisine. Known for brunch dishes like shrimp and grits and Southern Benedict, it also offers daily specials like half-price appetizers on Mondays. Prices range from $10–$20, with a cozy, exposed-brick atmosphere.
Cloud 9 Rooftop Bar
Perched above downtown, Cloud 9 offers stunning Cape Fear River views and a menu of sliders, flatbreads, and craft cocktails. It’s perfect for a casual lunch or sunset drinks, with prices from $10–$20.
Caprice Bistro
A downtown staple since 2001, Caprice Bistro serves French-inspired dishes like escargot and bouillabaisse. The elegant setting and outdoor patio make it ideal for dinner, with entrees priced at $15–$30.
Origins Food & Drink
A newer addition, Origins Food & Drink offers a refined menu with local ingredients and a quiet bar area for lunch. Prices range from $12–$25, with excellent service and ambiance.
Yosake Downtown Sushi Lounge
For sushi lovers, Yosake offers fresh nigiri, rolls, and Japanese curries in a trendy downtown setting. Prices range from $10–$25, with a lively vibe perfect for dinner.
Tips for Downtown Dining:
- Use the Market Street parking deck or street parking (free after 6:30 PM and on Sundays).
- Book reservations for Caprice Bistro and Origins, especially for dinner.
- Stroll the Riverwalk after dining for a scenic experience.
Plan Your Wilmington Culinary Journey for 2025
Wilmington, whether in Delaware or North Carolina, is a culinary destination that blends history, innovation, and coastal charm. In Wilmington, DE, restaurants like Le Cavalier and Bardea offer fine dining, while spots like The Charcoal Pit provide nostalgic comfort. In Wilmington, NC, the lunch scene shines at Drift Coffee and Savorez, with downtown gems like The Basics and Cloud 9 offering Southern and global flavors.
The top 10 places to eat in Wilmington, NC, from Seabird to TacoBaby, showcase the city’s vibrant foodie culture, while good places to eat in Wilmington, Delaware, like Big Fish Grill and Del Pez, cater to diverse tastes. Whether you’re exploring the Riverfront in Delaware or the historic downtown of North Carolina, Wilmington’s dining scenes promise unforgettable meals.
Planning Tips for 2025:
- Book Early: Reserve tables at popular spots like Seabird, Le Cavalier, and Bardea, especially for weekends or holidays.
- Visit Off-Peak: January and February offer fewer crowds and lower prices in both cities.
- Use Public Transport: Wilmington, NC’s Riverwalk and Wilmington, DE’s Riverfront are walkable, with parking decks nearby.
- Check Reviews: Use Yelp, TripAdvisor, or OpenTable for real-time reviews and reservations.
- Savor Local Flavors: Try seafood in Wilmington, NC, and Italian or French dishes in Wilmington, DE.
Start planning your Wilmington culinary adventure today and discover why these cities are foodie favorites in 2025. Where will your taste buds take you?