If you’re planning a trip and looking for restaurants in Wrightsville Beach, NC, you’re in for a treat – and I’m not just talking about the gorgeous blue ocean and soft sandy shore. Wrightsville Beach is a coastal gem when it comes to dining, offering a diverse array of restaurants that cater to every palate. From fresh seafood spots to cozy cafes and vibrant eateries, there’s something for everyone.
Matt grew up spending many summer family vacations in Wrightsville Beach and has countless memories. His extended family (about 25 people) would gather together for a week every year in this charming town, so it’s a very special place for Matt and his family! And I am so glad our kids now get to experience it too!
We spent Memorial Day weekend eating our way through Wrightsville Beach and I couldn’t have been happier for a break from meal planning/cooking/cleaning!
Wrightsville Beach is a walkable town with no shortage of bars, coffee shops, and restaurants you can pop in to. I received a handful of requests to write a post covering all of the delicious spots we dined at. Here’s where we went to fill our bellies this past trip…
Restaurants in Wrightsville Beach NC
Ceviche’s
Delicious Panama cuisine and great cocktails. Also, the vibe is so cozy and charming here.
Tip: The paella was Matt’s favorite meal of our entire trip.
Robert’s Grocery
You cannot visit Wrightsville Beach and not stop at Robert’s Grocery, a coastal classic market famously known for its chicken salad. It’s the oldest store at the beach and you can get just about anything you need here from sunscreen to dish soap.
Tip: Grab a to-go container of chicken salad and make sandwiches to eat on the beach!
Adapt Kitchen & Juice Bar
Located inside Robert’s Grocery, this is the perfect morning stop for lots of healthy food and beverage options to start the day. The menu caters to a wide range of dietary needs and is primarily plant-based. This locally owned bar also serves organic coffee, fresh pressed juices, wellness shots, baked goods and so much more.
TIP: Highly recommend the bronze eagle smoothie. The matcha tea is also amazing.
Tower 7 Baja Mex
A favorite spot among the locals for delicious tacos and margs (the margarita list is VERY extensive)!
Tip: The carne asada taco is unreal. I honestly think it’s the best steak taco I’ve ever had.
Drift Cafe
A super cute beach cafe with high-end coffee and tea drinks, and delicious brunch options.
Tip: The Nutella French toast was Thomas’s favorite meal of the trip.
South Beach Grill
Southern inspired dishes with fresh local fish and seafood (caught each day). The outdoor (dog-friendly) patio is also a great place to enjoy your meal.
Tip: The sweet potato crusted flounder was my favorite meal of the trip and I will be dreaming about it until I can order it again!
The Original Ice Cream Stand
A vibrant and charming walk-up ice cream stand with milkshakes, banana splits, smoothies, and a wide assortment of ice cream flavors. Our last stop on our way home after dinner every night!
Tip: Out of all the flavors (I think we tried almost all of them), everyone agreed the very best is caramel cookie twist!
And that’s a wrap on where we dined during our most recent stay.
A few other places I wanted to mention that we love include Dockside (casual waterfront restaurant) and The Bridge Tender (upscale waterfront dining).
And there a few places on my short list I really want to try (Shark Bar, The Workshop, and SUNday’s Cafe).
Peyton Cline
Wednesday 29th of May 2024
Just curious where you stayed while you were in Wrightsville Beach, and if you would recommend it!