2023 Sandwiches Guide

Downtown Wilmington explorers who want to grab a quick cup of coffee and a warm homemade treat can make an easy stop along Front Street at the 24 South Coffee House. This chic and charming establishment has a collection...

A Taste of Italy has New York roots and a prime location in the heart of Wilmington along College Road – a combination that has helped solidify this market’s reputation as one of the best delis in the Port...

Archibald’s Deli & Rotisserie is a cute stop for breakfast and lunch fans to grab a quick bite before crossing the Holden Beach Bridge to the shoreline. Found along Holden Beach Road, and located within a mint...

Many food lovers attest that you can always tell is an eatery is good by how busy it is, and the typical steady line at Hampstead’s Bagel Bakery certainly proves this theory. Located just off Highway 17 and...

The Bar-B-Que House is a favorite local destination for southern food fans to load up on plates of barbecue, southern sides, and all the fixins’. Located along East Oak Island Drive, just a couple blocks away from...

Visitors who are en route to the beach and are in the mood for a quick breakfast or lunch on the go can pop into the convenient and surprisingly diverse Beach Bagels. Located just a shell’s through away from the...

Beach House Burgers is a classic burger shack that’s convenient to visitors who are lounging along the Kure Beach shoreline. Located less than a block away from the oceanfront, this seasonal stand features all the...

Beana’s Kitchen is a traditional little diner that has all the classic southern fare that hungry patrons crave. Open for breakfast and lunch, and offering a lengthy four-page menu, this restaurant that’s...

Billy Ray’s Family Restaurant is a unique destination that attracts sports fans and southern cooking fans alike. Located in a busy but more local section of Carolina Beach Road, this relatively new eatery serves...

Blue Surf Café serves up inspired breakfast, lunch and dinner fare to hungry UNCW college students, Wilmington locals, and savvy vacationers-in-the-know alike. Featuring a wonderfully extensive menu, with a host...

Enjoy a seafood meal with a prime view of the local marinas that border the Intracoastal Waterway with a visit to Bluewater Grill. Located on the edge of the Wrightsville Beach Causeway, this seafood restaurant is a...

The Boathouse restaurant is a moderately-sized and unimposing restaurant that’s located in a quiet section of Wilmington, close to Bradley Creek. But although it’s easy to miss, seafood fans will want to...

Vacationers who are looking for a fast and classic bite before reaching the beach can make a stop at Bob’s Dogs – a fun and funky hot dog restaurant (and more) that’s found just a few blocks away from...

Downtown Wilmington is known for its collection of hip restaurants with culinary inspirations from around the world, and the centrally located Bourbon Street is no exception. Found just a block away from the waterfront...

For a full range of seafood and steak selections that is complemented with waterfront views, head to the edge of the Wrightsville Beach Causeway to the distinctive Bridge Tender Restaurant. Found within a unique...

Visitors who are touring the Cameron Art Museum don’t have to leave the premises to enjoy a creative and ultimately delicious lunch, thanks to the museum’s on-site Cam Café. Located in a bright and...

Captain Pete’s Seafood Restaurant is an acclaimed destination for Holden Beach vacationers to enjoy a big seafood-centric dinner, a round of refreshing cocktails, and an outstanding waterfront view, thanks to the...

Take a break from the daily grind and dive into a game of volleyball, a trivia night, or just a few rounds and a hearty meal with friends and family with a visit to Capt’n Bill’s Backyard Grill & Sports...

For breakfast, lunch and dinner, Carolina Girls’ Grillin’ Café is always cooking up something good. Located just north of Wilmington, on the outskirts of Castle Hayne, this eatery has a ton of big...

Causeway Gourmet is a delectable dine-in, take-out, and delivery spot where Ocean Isle Beach vacationers can feast on a wealth of freshly made sandwiches, entrees, salads, and so much more. Located on the inland side of...

Chasers Bar & Grill is a fun hang out for Oak Island locals and visitors alike, thanks to a friendly and nicely casual environment, plenty of game-worthy TVs, and a host of traditional bar food that goes well with a...

Ask a Wilmington local where to go for a casual lunch in Downtown Wilmington, and chances are they will list Chop’s Deli as one of their favorite options. Known for exceptional deli sandwiches, salads and soups...

Healthy eaters and the diet conscious finally have a place to call their own in the Cape Fear region. Clean Eatz, which is found just north of the UNCW campus, specializes in creating ultimately tasty creations that are...

The Copper Penny is a favorite go-to for Downtown Wilmington pub fans and beer lovers, thanks to a great combination of an extensive beer menu, tasty and filling cuisine, and an undeniably cool atmosphere.

Cousins Italian Deli brings warm Italian hospitality to the Cape Fear region with an extensive deli menu and special family-style meals that are sure to make visitors feel absolutely right at home. A top-rated...

David’s Deli & Restaurant is a solid breakfast or lunch destination for vacationers who are cruising from the mainland to the Wrightsville Beach shoreline. Located along Eastwood Drive, this casual and...

Nothing is more relaxing and liberating than a big belly laugh, and Wilmington’s own Dead Crow Comedy Room is a perfectly convenient destination for Cape Fear visitors to sit back, enjoy a drink, and let loose...

Detour Deli & Café might not be very big, but it makes up for its small stature with a deli menu that’s full of gigantic global flavors. Found within a miniature brick building on the outskirts of...

Wilmington visitors who want the appeal of an oceanfront beach restaurant without taking a spin across the Wrightsville Beach Bridge can pop into the Dockside Restaurant. Located on the waterfront border, with a cool...

Drift is a local cafe built by people who love good coffee and food, serving coffee and brunch. Our team has been inspired by cafes all over the world. Founders Michael and Ben grew up surfing competitively and...

Dry Street Pub & Pizza is a fresh pizza joint on the slightly inland outskirts of Downtown Southport that features a nice and colorful array of elevated Italian cuisine. With a 20-year history of providing Southport...

Eggs Up Grill, at 110 Shallotte Crossing Parkway, serves guests daily 6 a.m.-2 p.m. The full menu is available all day for dine-in, takeout and delivery. Menu categories include breakfast sandwiches, benedicts, omelets...

Empire Deli & Bagel is a laid-back little breakfast and lunch joint that will satisfy any native New Yorker or New Englander who happens to be in the Cape Fear region. Located just north of Wilmington in the Ogden...

With a name like Epic Food Co, you’d expect the food to be something special, and this casual restaurant off of Military Cutoff Road does not disappoint. Featuring a breakfast, main, and dinner menu, as well as a...

Eric’s Grille is a casual spot that’s found along a busy and more commercial section of central Southport, and which is known for classic American fare, home cooking, and a wonderfully friendly atmosphere...

Eternal Sunshine Café is a bright and cheerful spot to start the day with slightly unique breakfast and brunch fare that is sure to surprise even seasoned Wilmington food fans. Located just off of US Highway 74...

Famous Pizza and Subs is a convenient destination for a crowd pleasing take-out or fast and casual dine-in meal, just outside of Downtown Southport. Located close to the junction of 87 and 211 – the two main roads...

The Fishy Fishy Café is a favorite dining and drinks destination for Southport visitors, due to a prime location on the edge of the Intracoastal Waterway where the views are out of this world. Located next to a...

Oceanfront dining is always a thrill for Cape Fear visitors, and the Flying Fish Café is a favorite spot on Oak Island for visitors to feast on coastally-inspired creations while enjoying a lovely on-the-sand...

Folks Café is a sweet little coffee shop that’s found on the outskirts of Downtown Wilmington in an unimposing, (and very easy to pass by), one-story brick “home” in a cluster of small downtown...

The Fork N Cork is serving up a new blend of Artisan cuisine to the diners of Wilmington, with truly creative fare that takes advantage of local flavors, seasonal ingredients, and a hefty amount of imagination.

The Fox and Hound Pub & Grille is a prime destination for visitors to relax with a pint and a hearty meal after a long day of shopping in the ultra-posh Mayfaire Town center. Featuring a full menu of drinks and...

Beer fans who want to see what brews the Coastal Carolina region can cook up can pay a lunchtime, dinnertime, Happy Hour or late night visit to Front Street Brewery. Known for a collection of flagship brews that are...

Take a break from strolling along the Wilmington Riverwalk and enjoy an impeccable meal with a waterfront view at The George. Featuring vast vistas of the adjacent Cape Fear River, and located in the heart of the...

Visitors who are enjoying a round at Hampstead’s popular Olde Point Golf and Country Club can polish off a game with a fresh lunch, post-game drink, or tempting dinner at the acclaimed Georges At Olde Point...

Goody Goody Omelet House Restaurant has the look, the feel, and the grub of a classic southern breakfast and lunch joint, with an accompanying long menu that features all the classics. Located in a vintage building...

The wonderfully unique Greenlands Farm Store is worth a detour from the Southport Waterfront or Oak Island due to its petting zoo and gorgeous Bolivia, NC scenery alone. But visitors who stay to feast at the Farm Store...

The Gulf Stream Restaurant is a casual little restaurant that borders a handful of shops and marinas in the heart of Carolina Beach. Featuring a classic exterior and a wealth of classic back-to-basic eats, this...

As the name would suggest, Hang Ten Grill is a casual beach joint with a definitive surfer vibe that serves as the perfect hang-out after a long morning or afternoon of riding the waves in Carolina Beach. Located along...

BEST FOOD ON THE ISLAND, HANDS DOWN

Movie buffs and foodies alike will have a fine time at Hell’s Kitchen, a chic little Downtown Wilmington restaurant that had a guest role in the homegrown TV series, “Dawson’s Creek.” Located...

For fine cuisine that benefits from an overall “Farm to Table” philosophy, visitors can head over to Henry’s. Boasting a vintage warm interior with a long bar and an accompanying collection of booths...

Wilmington has more than its fair share of exceptional pizza joints, and even locals and visitors who are in the quieter Cape Fear regions, like the northern city outskirts near Interstate 40, will find a fantastic...

“Pleasure Island” is all about having fun, and the Hoplite Pub & Beer Garden, a true pub or “public house” lives up to this reputation with a full menu of brews and pub grub, and a relaxed...

Hops Supply Co is a fresh gastropub on Oleander Drive that impresses patrons with its equally distinctive drink and food menus. With an internal dedication to provide an exceptional beer selection, as well as fresh and...

Inlet View is a fine spot for Southport visitors to slip into an island lifestyle, thanks to a sea-worthy menu, and a location that’s on a quiet edge of the Intracoastal Waterway. Easy to access by visitors who...

Jack Mackerel’s Island Grill is a fun destination for a Happy Hour drink and round of appetizers, an easy-going lunch or dinner, or a late-night snack right before the party begins. Located next to the Kure Beach...

Jax Fifth Avenue Deli & Ale House may look like a Swiss retreat, but the downhome cuisine and friendly atmosphere is the hallmark of a southern destination. Featuring an expansive interior with plenty of bar seating...

Jebby’s on 17 is an American grill and sports bar that’s impossible to miss, thanks to a convenient locale along Highway 17 in Hampstead, and a vibrant blue exterior that’s perfect for its...

Veer just outside of the heart of Downtown Wilmington and you’ll discover Jester’s Café – a fun and funky café that specializes in traditional breakfast and lunch fare with a twist...

Juggling Gypsy Café is a completely original destination where food, drinks, live music, a hookah bar, and even belly dancing can all be found. A popular hang-out with the college crowd, and a fun late-night...

Kate’s Pancake House is a sunny destination for early risers, thanks to a colorful menu and bright interior that provides a great introduction to a day at the beach. Found in the heart of Carolina Beach along the...

Katy’s Grill and Bar is a haven for sports fans, thanks to a recently renovated living room, a full bar with rows of flat screen TVs, a cool outdoor dining area complete with shady umbrella-topped tables, and an...

The Keg and Egg is a craft beer emporium with a big Pittsburgh-style influence which, when combined, creates a hearty menu that is sure to appease beer fans and hungry patrons alike. This unique beer garden and sandwich...

King Neptune Restaurant is an all-encompassing breakfast, lunch, dinner and late-night hot spot that boasts a friendly hometown vibe, and a big wave of classic American fare with a coastal and southern influence. Known...

Kornerstone Bistro is a fun and slightly elevated little restaurant along Market Street that specializes in Italian, Mediterranean, and Latin cuisine. Boasting heaping plates of fresh pasta, and eye-catching appetizers...

Lane’s Ferry Dock & Grill is a lunch and dinner joint that’s found within a small residential-looking structure near the Cape Fear River. Though the region is little-known and seldom visited, the...

Little Bit’s Grill is a small establishment in the heart of Oak Island that might be easy to pass by, but shouldn’t be missed by burger lovers and anyone who is craving a salty, decadent beach treat...

Southport visitors who are in need of a strong cup of coffee and a hearty breakfast or lunch to start their downtown exploration will find everything they crave at the centrally located Locals Family Diner. Featuring a...

Loco Jo’s Grill is a fun destination for Cape Fear visitors to settle into a table or bar stool and feast on a colorful array of both traditional American, southern, and even global fare. With a unique menu that...

Long Island Eatery is a classic New York Delicatessen and coffee bar that was founded by authentic New Yorkers and which is a decent spot to find a wide array of fresh salads, sandwiches, desserts, and drinks to enjoy...

Louie’s Hot Dogs is a sliver of a restaurant that’s tucked away in Wilmington’s Historic Downtown, and which is less than a block away from the Riverwalk and ensuing waterfront. Measuring only 6...

Lovey’s Natural Foods & Café is a dream destination for vegetarians, health-conscious eaters, and anyone who craves a healthy meal or an array of natural and organic goodies. Located along Military...

Mermaid’s Island Grill is a cool restaurant in the heart of Holden Beach that’s known for cold cocktails, good beachy fare, and a laid-back atmosphere that fits in perfectly with the shoreside environment...

Merritt’s Burger House is a classic little drive-in joint that’s been a subtle Wilmington institution for generations. Featuring a drive-in style exterior, complete with an old-school sign, this simple...

Midtown Deli is a fresh little sandwich shop that’s found just south of the Downtown Wilmington area along 17thstreet. Boasting a full menu of slightly upscale sandwiches, salads, and other fare that’s...

Might as Well Bar & Grill is a modest-sized bar and restaurant that’s a solid destination for filling food and Happy Hour or late-night drinks with friends. Boasting a big array of beverages and drink...

Mike’s Bites is a relatively new addition to the Bald Head Island dining scene, and has a unique location in the old Cape Fear Light generator building on Federal Road, which is perfectly convenient for visitors...

Moore Street Market is an eye-catching destination for breakfast and lunch that’s found within a historic former home in the heart of Downtown Southport. Located just a shell’s throw away from the...

Mr. P’s Bistro is a fine representation of Low Country cuisine, thanks to a long family history in the local Cape Fear seafood industry. Overseen by Executive Chef and the original Mr. P’s son, Stephen...

The Oak Island Sub Shop is a fast and convenient destination for beach-goers and central Oak Island explorers to grab an easy-going lunch or donner that’s nicely filling and pairs well with the sandy, salty...

Visitors who crave a refreshing seaside bite with an unbeatable view will want to check out the Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar. Sandwiched in between two hotels, and perched directly on the oceanfront with a long pier that...

Oceans is a chick little dining option for visitors who are staying in Wrightsville Beach’s sprawling Holiday Inn Resort. Featuring a large and open dining room, as well as several nearby lounges that boast indoor...

Ogden Tap Room is Wilmington’s newest haven for beer lovers, thanks to an extensive beer menu that includes 40 rotating beers on tap. Coupled with an inviting interior, a family-friendly atmosphere, and a full...

Old Bridge Diner is a classic breakfast, lunch, and dinner spot that’s both budget-friendly and easy to reach for visitors who are staying both on and off Oak Island. Located on Country Club Drive, and almost...

The Olde Salty’s is a local icon that has been serving Carolina Beach vacationers for more than 20 years. Found within a fairly non-descript building along the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, this classic lunch and...

Wilmington visitors who are touring the downtown area’s famed Cotton Exchange can whet an appetite for a cold drink, a hearty lunch, or a decadent dinner with a visit to Paddy’s Hollow. Featuring an...

Visitors and locals who are cruising along Carolina Beach Road and who are hungry for a laid-back lunch or dinner that’s topped with a frozen treat can swing by the casual but tasty Papa Fin’s. Tucked away...

Vacationers who are staying at the Bald Head Island Club don’t have to venture too far away from the sprawling and sparkling pool to find a good and casual spot for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, thanks to the...

The Pepperoni Grill is a neighborhood pizzeria where Oak Island vacationers can get together and enjoy a family-friendly meal over a big pizza pie, a classic Italian sandwich, or a hearty pasta dish. Located just a...

There’s a little something for everyone to savor at the Pine Valley Market. Centrally located along College Road, this modest-sized establishment specializes in catering, fresh meats, wine, prepared foods to feast...

Poe’s Tavern is an effortlessly chic spot for Happy Hour drinks, a post-beach meal, or a late night adventure with friends reminiscing about the day over a round of beers or two. Featuring a cool brick and dark...

Pop’s Diner is a nostalgic little eatery that will bring a smile to any Carolina Beach vacationer’s face. Carolina Beach's only late night diner that is open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner and late...

PortCity Cheesesteak Company is a cool little sandwich shop that’s located just off of Market Street on the edges of Downtown Wilmington. As the name would suggest, this is place that Philly fans and natives can...

Ports of Call Bistro & Market is a catch-all destination for Southport food lovers of all tastes. Featuring an in-house bakery and market, as well as a dining area that serves up both fresh lunch and dinner...

For a cool cocktail to top off a long downtown exploration, or an easy-going and sunny meal to complement the waterfront surroundings, head to Southport’s Provision Company. Located on the edge of the Intracoastal...

Reel Cuisine’s Pacific Grille, which is found just outside the downtown area along 17thStreet, is a truly unique destination for Wilmington visitors and locals who crave fresh flavors, healthy cuisine, and just a...

Russell’s Place Restaurant is a classic breakfast and lunch restaurant that brings traditional diner-style and wholly American fare to the heart of the Cape Fear region. With a basic but sprawling menu that...

For a fresh breakfast or lunch with a clear New York-inspired influence, S&L New York Style Deli literally delivers. Located just outside the downtown area along busy 17thStreet, this little deli is garnering a...

Sam’s Hot Dog Stand isn’t technically a “stand,” but it has all the flavor of a favorite hot dog stand in NYC or big metropolis that’s well outside the port city. Priding itself on great...

Vegetarians and fresh food lovers will find plenty of reasons to celebrate at the Sealevel City Gourmet – an enticing little café that boasts a wealth of fresh and handmade food and drink. Spearheaded by...

The SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar is a casual little spot that has a definitive coastal vibe and a hearty menu that’s seemingly designed to appeal to salty appetites. Found just a block away from the oceanfront...

Shagger Jacks is an ideal location for a post-beach drink, snack attack, or full meal, with a wonderfully varied and beachy menu that matches the cool, coastal surroundings. With seasonal outdoor and indoor seating...

Shirley’s Diner is a super casual restaurant that’s initially easy to miss, due to a Leland location that’s tucked away behind a busy shopping center, but which remains a popular destination for locals...

A lot of newcomers are a little wary when they first arrive at Silver Hill Grill. Located in Supply, NC – which is just inland from Holden Beach – and found within a simple, one-story building that’s...

Wilmington residents and visitors in the Monkey Junction area have a new venue for a Sunday football game or a Happy Hour drink with friends in the form of the Slainte Irish Pub. With a friendly atmosphere, plenty of...

For a no-frills breakfast or afternoon meal that’s loaded with southern flavor and coastal North Carolina staples, head to Sonja’s Grill. Found just off of Highway 17, and convenient to visitors who are...

South Beach Grill is a cool little restaurant that’s close to the water, and which uses this locale as an inspiration for its tasty, seafood-heavy menu. Serving lunch and dinner in the nicely decorated inside...

Treat yourself to real wood-smoked BBQ and brisket, a mess of classic southern sides, and a friendly family environment with a visit to Southport Smoke House. Located on the outskirts of Howe Street on the edge of the...

For Wilmington visitors who are exploring the outskirts of the downtown area, or who are just setting off on a trip to the coastline via Carolina Beach Road, Sub Stop is an easy destination to feast on a big lunch, or...

The Sugar Shack is a cool Oak Island eatery that brings a little tropical spice to a traditionally beachy menu. Specializing in Jerk flavoring and entrees, this restaurant will wow patrons with an abundance of bold...

There’s always something sumptuous to discover at Sweet N Savory Café – an artful little eatery that’s found on the edge of Wilmington’s Landfall Park, and the River to the Sea Bikeway...

Terrazzo Trattoria is an Italian restaurant and pizza place that has a slightly elevated atmosphere and appeal, and a vast menu that showcases a wealth of Italian specialties. Located along a busy section of Military...

The name of “The Basics” is also an illusion to this casual eatery’s philosophy, which is to serve up all the stales of southern comfort food, keep it simple, and let the inherently rich and wonderful...

The Dive is an ultra-casual little spot that’s a fun destination for the after-hours beach crowd. Located just off of US 421, and bordered by a collection of beach bars, motels and restaurants, this little...

The Dixie Grill is a down-home taste of southern cuisine in the heart of Downtown Wilmington. Found in a modest building just a couple blocks away from the waterfront, this breakfast, lunch and dinner spot is a longtime...

Start a busy day off right with a hot cup of coffee and a perfect hand-cut donut or hearty breakfast sandwich with a visit to the Donut Inn. Located on the corners of Eastwood Road and Military Cutoff Road, and open...

Locals know that when it comes to hearty and convenient Greek fare, you got to visit The Greeks. This Mediterranean Deli and Market has an outstanding location in the heart of Downtown Wilmington, just a couple blocks...

Take a trip to the edge of Downtown Wilmington to dive into authentic Irish cuisine with a visit to The Harp – a subtle little eatery that’s found just a couple blocks away from the Cape Fear Riverfront, and...

The King’s Table is a central destination for golfing visitors and residents of the Castle Bay Country Club who crave a fresh sandwich, salad, or other bite to eat that pairs nicely with a full day on the golf...

The Pharmacy Restaurant is a New American restaurant that has a lot of historic southern style, and a cool location in the heart of the downtown area. Found along Moore Street and bordered by small patio tables that are...

The Pirates Deck is a fun afternoon, evening, or even after-hours hang-out where patrons can feast on big plates of classic southern fare and seafood baskets in a relaxed and no-frills atmosphere. Located in one of the...

The Purple Onion Café opened on Main Street in Shallotte in 2004. Since then they have become a community favorite serving locals & visitors breakfast and lunch with a delicious menu of pastries, traditional...

The View At Brick Landing Plantation is the only on-island restaurant that’s situated on one of the Oak Island area’s picturesque golf courses. Overlooking the course as well as the not-so-distant...

Tommy Thompson’s Grille is an on-site restaurant that’s found within the private golfing community, The Clubs at St. James. Featuring a la carte and more casual dining, as well as a daily soup, salad bar...

With solid prices, great grub, and a convenient location for Porters Neck locals and visitors, Two Guys Grille allows casual food fans to chow down on a hearty and slightly elevated menu without breaking the bank.

Most new vacationers to Carolina Beach are surprised to find that the region has more than its fair share of pizza and Italian eateries that are close to the oceanfront shoreline or the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, and...

The Village Cafe & Deli is a unique little gem in the heart of Hampstead that’s found just off of US Highway 17 and, at first glance, looks like a residential home or business Visitors who find this little...

Whiskey Trail Pub & Grill is a hidden gem that’s tucked away near the Masonboro Sound, and which serves as a popular hang-out for Wilmington residents in the Masonboro Loop and Monkey Junction area. Serving up...

White Front is a no-frills breakfast joint that’s found within a weather-worn, one-story building on the outskirts of the downtown area, and despite its humble exterior, is a popular local go-to for good breakfast...

Visitors who crave a really good burger and a beer in a super casual environment should make a beeline to Winnies Tavern. Located in a relatively quiet section of Wilmington, with a slightly rustic exterior, Winnies is...

For a classic coastal bite to eat that’s almost eclipsed by the brilliant view, head to Yacht Basin Eatery. This waterfront restaurant with seasonal outdoor seating and a location on the very edge of downtown...