Eat Your Way Through Wilmington: Part 1
As Wilmington continues to grow, so does the foodie scene!
Sharing good food with family and friends is one of my absolute favorite things to do, and there is no shortage of amazing restaurants around town that will wow any palate or craving.
So welcome to Eat Your Way Through Wilmington, a new blog series where I highlight some of the best places to eat in the Port City, starting with dinner.
If you’re ready to eat like a local, be sure to check out these hot spots.
H2: Olivero
Image via Instagram @olivero_ilm
Inspired by Italian and Spanish cuisine, Olivero is a beloved establishment serving up mouth watering pasta dishes, incredible cocktails, and a laid back ambiance. The chefs are 2025 James Beard Award nominees, and the restaurant was named one of USA Today’s 2025 Restaurants of the Year. This is a must-stop Wilmington staple for anyone who loves good food, good drink, and good company.
Click here to check them out!
H2: Savorez
Image via https://savorez.com/
If you like tapas and amazing drinks in a bright yet intimate setting, this is your place! Savorez is a go-to Latin American fusion restaurant right in the heart of historic downtown. The reviews don’t lie—this place is a gem. Known for their innovative (and honestly beautiful) dishes and amazing brunch menu, there’s something here for everyone. There’s also a nice variety of vegan options made with local ingredients!
Click here to check them out!
H2: Kapow Thai Street Food
Image via Instagram @kapow_thai
This is THE spot for traditional Thai food. After a recent expansion to their once tiny-but-mighty space and an upgraded menu, Kapow has been widely talked about in the Wilmington food scene. Loyal regulars swear by the quality and authenticity of everything on the menu. If you need a recommendation, the drunken noodles are by far their most popular and buzzed-about dish!
Click here to check them out!
H2: Seabird
Image via https://www.seabirdnc.com/
Incredible, award-winning seafood in a historical downtown building alongside gorgeous handcrafted cocktails…it doesn’t get much better than that. All shellfish and oysters served on their menu are caught by local, small-scale fisherpeople, and wine aficionados can join their wine club for exclusive pairings and curated bottles every month. Chef Dean Neff was a James Beard semifinalist for “Best Chef” in 2019 and 2023, and a 2024 finalist for “Outstanding Chef.” Seabird is a Wilmington treasure and a must-try for seafood lovers on the Carolina coast.
Click here to check them out!
H2: Benny’s Big Time
Image via https://www.bennysbigtime.com/
We couldn’t leave out one of the best pizzerias in the city! Delicious neapolitan pizza, robust Italian wine, and house-made pasta in a rustic setting, Benny’s is the winner of Wilmington Magazine’s Best Pizza award in 2025. It’s so popular, however, that you are strongly advised to reserve a table in advance if you’re looking to sit down with a group on a weekend evening. If you’re looking for good, authentic, and casual Italian food with a cult-like following, Benny’s is where it’s at!
Click here to check them out!
No matter where you are in Wilmington, there’s something delicious waiting for you around the corner. With so many amazing restaurants in the area, it’s hard to compile just one roundup! So be sure to check back for Part 2 (and maybe Part 3 & 4) to see more of my personal recommendations and local favorites.
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