Sarah & Joshua
Places to Visit
Olivero
One of the hottest restaurants in town—if you’re seeing this early and want some award-winning food, definitely look into getting a reservation! Olivero made USA Today's list of Best Restaurants in 2025, and for good reason. With an incredible menu of handcrafted cocktails, fresh seafood, and house-made pastas, plus an open kitchen concept that makes the dining experience even more special, this spot is a must-visit. The chefs are award-winning, the atmosphere is top-notch, and the menu is always changing—so check it out before you go! 📍 Located on Castle Street in Downtown Wilmington
Circa 1922
Located right in the middle of Front Street, downtown Wilmington, Circa 1922 has been one of our favorite date night spots for as long as we can remember. Housed inside a beautifully refurbished old bank, it’s the perfect mix of cozy ambiance and amazing food. The service is always top-notch, making it a must-visit when you're looking for a more refined dining experience. Must Orders: Mussels Caesar Salad – We know it sounds weird, but trust us—it’s the best you’ll ever have Tuna Poke Bombs Oysters Coconut Sushi Dessert 📍 Front Street in Downtown Wilmington
True Blue Butcher and Barrel
A high-end spot known for its incredible steaks and top-notch whiskey selection. True Blue also serves an amazing brunch on weekends. While it's part of a local chain with several locations, this one is just outside downtown in the South Front District. It’s a restaurant, whiskey bar, and butcher shop all rolled into one. Their burger is a hidden gem, especially on Wednesdays when it's only $5! Must Try: Steak and specialty cuts The burger Whiskey selection 📍 South Front District
Caprice bistro
Caprice Bistro is a charming French spot downtown, and we absolutely love it. With a cozy atmosphere and a fantastic upstairs bar, it's the perfect place for a glass of wine and a delicious cheeseboard. They also serve classic French dishes, and if you're a fan of comfort food, their Beef Bourguignon is a must-try (it’s our personal favorite!). Reservations are highly recommended, as it’s a popular spot in town. 📍 Downtown Wilmington
The Vine Wine Bar and Eatery
A cozy-yet-chic spot in downtown Wilmington, The Vine is our go-to for great wine, craft cocktails, and delicious small bites. Their build-your-own charcuterie boards are a standout, letting you customize the perfect spread. Whether you’re stopping in for a pre-dinner drink or a casual night out, this spot never disappoints! Must Orders: Bacon Pops Rizzo Flatbread Stuffed Dates Build-Your-Own Charcuterie 📍 Located in Downtown Wilmington
Ceviche's
A super popular spot near Wrightsville Beach, Ceviche is the go-to place for fresh, flavorful seafood with a beach vibe. With delicious dishes perfect for sharing like ceviche, empanadas, chips and dips, and fantastic mains, this place never disappoints. The drinks are also on point, making it a great spot to kick back. Reservations are a must—this place fills up fast, so plan ahead! Must Try: Ceviche Empanadas Chips and dips Great cocktails 📍 Near Wrightsville Beach
The Crown & Fiddle Pub and Kitchen
An Irish pub located in Central Wilmington, Crown and Fiddle is the perfect spot for a relaxed evening out. For all our Charlotte/Cornelius friends and family, you’ll recognize the owners from Restaurant X and Harp and Crown in Cornelius—so you know the food is top-notch. The vibe is cozy and inviting, with a great chill bar area to hang out. Must Orders: Fish and Chips Cajun Chicken Pasta Potato Puffs 📍 Located in Central Wilmington
Tequila comida & Cantina Waterfront
Located right next to the amphitheater downtown on the water, Tequila Waterfront is the perfect spot for a relaxed, upscale Mexican meal with unbeatable views. The food is delicious, but let’s be honest—the real star here is the patio. Grab a seat, sip on a margarita, and take in the stunning water views. It’s the kind of spot where you’ll find yourself saying, “Life is good.” Must Orders: Birria Tacos Spicy Margarita Ceviche 📍Next to the amphitheater, on the water in Downtown Wilmington
Rebellion NC
Located downtown Wilmington, Rebellion is the perfect spot for both great food and a fun atmosphere. Known for its incredible burgers and Southern twists on classic American comfort food, it's also a top choice for bourbon and whiskey lovers. Whether you’re in the mood for a bite or catching the game, this sports bar delivers on both fronts. 📍 Downtown Wilmington
Prost Biergarten
A cozy German spot with amazing food and cocktails, Prost is perfect for sharing small plates or enjoying a hearty meal. Their back patio is a great place to enjoy the weather, but the indoor vibe is just as charming. You can’t go wrong with any of their dishes, but their cocktails, especially the Hugo Spritz, are what we dream of daily. Must Orders: Potato Pancakes The Rachel (Turkey Sandwich) Hugo Spritz 📍 Located in Downtown Wilmington
Savor Southern Kitchen
Savor Southern Kitchen has the best brunch in the area, hands down. Located just outside of downtown, it’s worth the short trip. The brunch drinks are fantastic—don’t miss their Bloody Marys or boozy coffee flights, they’re a treat. The biscuits here are the size of your plate, and honestly, everything on the menu is amazing. Insider tip: Call ahead to put your name on the waitlist—trust us, you’ll want to skip the wait. With locally sourced ingredients and top-notch service, this spot is a staple for us. Must Try: Boosy coffee flights The biggest biscuits ever Bloody Marys Southern classics 📍 Just outside downtown Wilmington
Blueberry’s Grill
Blueberry's Grill is one of the most popular brunch spots near Wrightsville Beach, and for good reason. Their brunch menu is massive and delicious. It gets super busy, so definitely call ahead or put your name down on their website to skip the wait. A must-try is their blueberry hushpuppies—so amazing! They also serve mimosa flights and have a great outdoor seating area, perfect for soaking in the atmosphere while enjoying your meal. Must Try: Blueberry hushpuppies Mimosa flights Outdoor seating 📍 Near Wrightsville Beach
Rally Point Bar & Arcade
A great spot to grab a drink and play some games. Rally Point has a solid lineup of arcade games, a full bar, and a huge upstairs area with pool tables and more. Whether you’re in the mood for some friendly competition or just hanging out, it’s a fun, low-key place to spend an evening. Must Do: Arcade games Pool tables upstairs Full bar 📍 Downtown Wilmington
Good Lie
An indoor, adult-oriented 9-hole mini golf course with a full bar. Great drinks, a fun atmosphere, and plenty of space for both small and large groups. They also have large TVs with major sports packages, making it a great spot to hang out beyond just mini golf. 📍 Castle Street District
Concorde Espresso Bar
A coffee shop by day and an espresso martini bar by night, Concorde is a must-visit. The huge courtyard with fireplaces makes it a perfect spot to sip drinks and even roast s’mores. They serve espresso martini towers and flights—definitely a fun, unique experience. Highly recommend making a reservation! Must Try: Morning coffee Espresso martini flights & towers S’mores by the fire 📍 Downtown Wilmington
Hidden Grounds Coffee
The best coffee in Wilmington—hands down. Conveniently located downtown (and right next to our venue!), Hidden Grounds is owned by a couple from Mooresville. The courtyard is awesome, with a fun dinosaur theme, and the coffee is just as good as the vibes. Must Try: Any of their specialty coffee drinks Enjoying the dino-themed courtyard 📍 Downtown Wilmington
Dockside Restaurant
The best spot to grab a drink and take in waterfront views. Located closer to the beach, Dockside is a favorite for both locals and visitors. The food is decent, but the atmosphere is what makes this place a must-visit. It can get busy, but the bar area is always a solid move—and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a dolphin or two! 📍 Near Wrightsville Beach
The Ivey in the Alley
Our favorite bar downtown! It’s tucked away in an alley, giving it a cool, hidden vibe. The Ivey has a great bar to sit at, big TVs, and a fantastic drink selection. With good music and a chill atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot for a relaxed night out. 📍 Downtown Wilmington (Alley location)
Blue Post Billiards
A classic billiards room and arcade bar, Blue Post is a staple in the area with its dive bar vibe. It’s a great spot to grab a drink, play some games, and enjoy the chill, laid-back atmosphere. Bring your quarters and get ready for some fun! 📍 Downtown Wilmington
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is the place for some of the best cocktails in town. From the Creme Brulee Martini to the What a Melon Margarita and the Gin and Jam, they’ve got drinks you won’t want to miss. With live music most nights and a pool table upstairs, it’s always a great time. Must Try: Creme Brulee Martini What a Melon Margarita Gin and Jam 📍 Downtown Wilmington
Airlie Gardens
Airlie Gardens is a must-see when you're in Wilmington! Spanning over 67 acres, this historic property offers a stunning showcase of nature's beauty. You can stroll through seasonal blooms, mighty live oaks, and walking trails, all while exploring the history of the gardens, which date back to the early 1700s. Highlights include the Pergola, Minnie Evans Bottle Chapel, and the seasonal Butterfly House. Garden Hours: Monday-Sunday: 9 AM - 5 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM) Admission: Tickets available online or onsite. Take your time to enjoy the self-guided walking tour, and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings of one of Wilmington’s most iconic spots!
Battleship North Carolina
Step back in time and explore one of the most significant ships of World War II! The Battleship North Carolina played a key role in every major naval offensive in the Pacific theater, earning 15 battle stars. Located just across the river from downtown Wilmington, this iconic ship offers a chance to experience history firsthand. Climb inside gun turrets, explore nine levels of the ship, and get a glimpse into the lives of the crew with exhibits showing where they ate, slept, and worked. It's a great experience for history buffs and families alike! Hours: Open daily, rain or shine. Most of the tour is indoors, so it's perfect no matter the weather. Admission: Includes a self-guided tour of the ship. Guided tours are also available for individuals and groups. Tip: Expect to spend at least two hours exploring, though many visitors stay longer depending on how much you want to discover!