Nestled along the picturesque coastline of North Carolina, Carolina Beach is a culinary treasure trove waiting to be discovered. The diverse selection of restaurants in Carolina Beach NC provides culinary adventures that delight the palate and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or a barbecue enthusiast, this coastal paradise’s eclectic mix of dining options will satisfy every palate.
As we set out on a culinary adventure, we will venture into charming dining spots in Kure Beach. Our aim is to make sure your exploration of restaurants in Carolina Beach NC, is both varied and flavorful, much like the lively coastal community.
The Best Restaurants in Carolina Beach NC
If you happen to be a food enthusiast heading this way, you’ll find the restaurants in Carolina Beach, NC are designed to inspire at every turn! Palate-pleasing moments of all kinds are right at your fingertips when you make this your vacation destination of choice. When cravings come calling during your stay, the following stops should definitely be added to your must-try itinerary.
Seafood Restaurants in Carolina Beach NC
While Carolina Beach NC is packed with sensational seafood stops to enjoy year-round, the Cape Fear Boil Company is an award-winning choice when fresh-caught fare is top of mind. Located at 1140 Lake Park Boulevard, this eatery is loved for the local catches dished up daily between 11:00 am and 7:00 pm. Whether you’re in the mood for oysters on the half-shell or snow crab legs, you’ll find tasty moments begin the moment you settle into the dining room. At the Cape Fear Boil Company, you can also pre-order seafood boils for special events or request a takeaway picnic that you can enjoy on the shoreline.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants
If you’re spending quality time in Carolina Beach NC with your favorite canine companion in tow, you’ll be delighted to find there are many local eateries that are happy to welcome people and pets alike. A great dog-friendly restaurant to check out while you’re here is Hang Ten Grill at 308 S Lake Park Boulevard. Feel free to settle in on their open-air patio with your dog at your side and enjoy all-day breakfast selections or seafood, sandwiches, and burgers too. This is a one-stop resource for pub-grub favorites where you can savor time in the fresh air and pair any plate with an ice cold beer.
Italian Restaurants to Enjoy
There are times when nothing hits the spot quite like authentic Italian fare and when this is the case during your Carolina Beach NC getaway, Uncle Vinny’s Pizzeria & Ristorante has you covered. Located at 1012 Lake Park Boulevard South, Uncle Vinny’s is a great place to enjoy everything from custom-topped pizza and sandwiches to more traditional dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, alfredo gnocchi, or linguine con vongole topped with fresh garlic. Drop by with the entire family Monday through Thursday from 11:00 am until 10:00 pm, Fridays and Saturdays until 11:00 pm, and Sundays between noon and 9:00 pm.
Oceanfront Dining Options
When you’re looking to pair a mouthwatering meal with gorgeous ocean views too, make sure to make time to drop by Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar at least once during your Carolina Beach NC getaway. Located at 1211 Lake Park Boulevard South, Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar is a popular place to swing by for brunch, lunch, or dinner when you’re up for a casual beachfront setting that’s often combined with live musical entertainment. The menu here features a fantastic lineup of handcrafted cocktails as well as entrees ranging from oysters and fish tacos to crab cake sandwiches. Whether you go for the fresh catch of the day or the calabash platter, your tastebuds are in for a treat.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
If you’re enjoying time in Carolina Beach with the entire family and you’re searching for a place to dine with something for everyone in your crew to savor, Granny’s Country Kitchen is a stop you won’t want to miss. Situated at 1310 S Lake Park Boulevard, Granny’s Country Kitchen is a kid-friendly restaurant in town where you can find a menu brimming over with Southern family-style cooking and easy-to-order options that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The children’s breakfast menu here includes everything from Micky and Minnie mouse-inspired pancakes as well as eggs, cereal, and bacon too. If you drop by for lunch, the cheeseburgers, chicken tenders, fries, and PB&J are sure to please!
Tasting History Tours
Tasting History Tours, locally owned and operated, embodies the charm and quirkiness of the small seaside towns of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach. Walking through the breezy streets filled with warm salt air, you’ll feel the distinctive essence of Pleasure Island coming to life. These tours are a delight for your palate and a voyage through the diverse and storied history of a location that has endured devastating fires, hurricanes, naval conflicts, and other significant historical events.
Signature Food Tour
The Signature Food Tour guides you through the streets of Carolina Beach, introducing you to many local flavors. It offers an enriching blend of interesting island history and delightful eats, stopping at 5-6 local restaurants.
You will get to taste what the locals relish, all while learning about the area’s historic significance, from its role in the Civil War to its evolution as a popular tourist destination. This walking tour lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours and promises an afternoon filled with fascinating tales and culinary delights.
History in a Glass Drink Tour
The History in a Glass Drink Tour is another captivating experience, lasting about 2 hours and inviting you to raise a glass to the history of Carolina Beach. It’s not just about sipping; it’s about savoring a variety of adult beverages, including beer, wine, and distilled spirits, each telling a story of the past. As you stop at 4-5 local spots, you get to taste these beverages and absorb a shot of history, making every sip a blend of flavor and knowledge.
This drink tour offers a unique way to explore the Carolina Beach and Kure Beach area, immersing participants in the local culture and history while enjoying a diverse range of beverages. It’s a journey that combines the pleasure of drinking with the enrichment of learning, providing a multifaceted experience for locals and visitors alike.
Mural Tour
Embark on the Mural Tour and explore the popular things to do in Carolina Beach along with its vibrant public art. The walls that were once blank canvases now boast beautiful murals, each telling a story, celebrating the unique coastal ecosystem, or memorializing the past. This tour, lasting about 1 1/2 hours, is a visual treat and a testament to the community’s creativity and spirit.
Mid-tour, participants can take a refreshing break, adding a relaxing touch to the exploration. These murals, transforming the town into a dynamic art gallery, provide insight into the area’s local culture, history, and natural beauty, making the Mural Tour a must-do activity for anyone wanting to experience Carolina Beach’s diverse character.
Taste Wilmington
In the heart of Downtown Wilmington, a culinary haven unfolds, offering a dream landscape for food enthusiasts. Taste Wilmington brings this dream to reality, guiding you through an eclectic assortment of restaurants that make the city a food lover’s paradise.
These tours are designed to let you savor the diverse culinary delights, engage with the city’s top chefs, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the historic downtown area. Whether you are a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, Taste Wilmington provides a unique opportunity to explore the city’s culinary scene and learn about its evolution into a culinary hotspot.
Wilmington Downtown Tasting Tour
Available at 1:45 every Saturday and on weekdays by request, the Wilmington Downtown Tasting Tour promises a unique and flavorful experience. This walking tour guides you through the historic area, stopping at 5-6 restaurants and bars, each offering a variety of savory and sweet tastings. Most stops are paired with small alcoholic drink tastings, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the culinary adventure.
As you stroll through Wilmington’s historic downtown, you’ll meet the chefs and owners responsible for the delicious culinary creations. You’ll gain insight into their passion and dedication to the culinary arts.
This tour is a delightful experience that combines the joy of food and drink with the richness of history. It runs all year round, making it an excellent way to explore Wilmington’s culinary diversity and historical charm.
Wilmington Downtown Evening Tasting Tour
If you’re looking for a distinctive culinary adventure under the twinkling city lights, you can request to join the Wilmington Downtown Evening Tasting Tour on weeknights. Similar to its daytime version, this tour features an array of delectable sweet and savory tastings at five to six bars and restaurants in the historic neighborhood.
Many tastings are paired with alcoholic drinks, making it a delightful way to explore the city’s culinary scene while immersing yourself in the charming ambiance of downtown Wilmington at night.
Meet the creative minds behind the dishes, learn about the historic downtown, and savor every bite and sip as you uncover the culinary treasures of Wilmington. This tour is a fantastic option for those looking to spice up their weeknights with culinary exploration and historical learning.
Private and Corporate Tours
Taste Wilmington goes above and beyond by offering private and corporate tours tailored to provide a personalized culinary journey through Downtown Wilmington. Whether you organize a team-building event, celebrate a special occasion, or simply want an exclusive culinary experience, these customized tours cater to your preferences and needs. Discover the culinary gems of Wilmington, interact with chefs and restaurant owners, and enjoy a memorable tasting experience with your group.
Book With Victory Beach Vacations
Specializing in vacation rentals in the picturesque locales of Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, Victory Beach Vacations orchestrates idyllic getaways in North Carolina’s most beautiful coastal regions.
Each day spent with Victory Beach Vacations is an exploration of beachside wonders and a retreat into luxurious comfort. Our luxury Caroline beach rentals, adorned with modern aesthetics and complemented by stunning vistas, create a harmonious blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring the local landscapes, indulging in the restaurants in Carolina Beach, or simply unwinding by the pool, every moment is a treasure.
Booking your dream vacation is just a click away! Victory Beach Vacations proudly presents a collection of modern, spacious homes with luxury amenities designed to elevate your stay. Dive into the pool after basking in the sun, concoct culinary masterpieces in your well-appointed kitchen, and let the rhythmic sound of the waves accompany your beachside evenings.
