Wilmington NC's Best Seafood [Updated 2024]

From fish to crabs and everything in between, this coastal town has no shortage of delectable delights from the sea. With my taste buds as my trusty companions, I ventured to twelve different seafood spots, ready to indulge in the flavors of the ocean.

Prepare yourself for a lighthearted adventure, as I share my top picks for the best seafood in Wilmington, NC. So grab your bibs and appetite, because we're about to dive into some seriously mouthwatering dishes.

Let's get shellebrating!

Fish House Grill

Highlights
Fantastic staff
Lemon pepper fries
Excellent food
Amazing drinks
Top-notch service

From the moment I stepped foot into Fish House Grill, I was greeted by their fantastic staff who made me feel like a treasured guest. The warm and lively atmosphere immediately put me at ease, making it the perfect place to indulge in a delightful seafood experience.

Let's talk about the food. Oh, the food! Every bite was a dance of flavors on my taste buds. Their Lemon Pepper Fries were unlike any I have ever tasted before. Crispy, tangy, and perfectly seasoned, they were the ideal companion to the succulent fish dishes that followed.

Speaking of fish, Fish House Grill truly excels in delivering excellence on a plate. From their expertly prepared grilled snapper to their mouthwatering seafood platters, each dish showcased the finest quality seafood that Wilmington has to offer. Their dedication to sourcing fresh and local ingredients was evident in every dish.

To complement the outstanding food, Fish House Grill boasts an impressive selection of drinks. Whether you're a fan of craft beers, signature cocktails, or prefer something non-alcoholic, they have something for everyone. I highly recommend trying their refreshing Fish House Mojito – it's an absolute game-changer!

What truly sets Fish House Grill apart is their top-notch service. The friendly and attentive staff made sure that every aspect of my dining experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Their genuine passion for creating memorable moments shone through, leaving me with a lasting impression.

In conclusion, Fish House Grill is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers in Wilmington NC. With their fantastic staff, mouthwatering food, and amazing drinks, you're guaranteed an unforgettable culinary adventure. So, go ahead and treat yourself – your taste buds will thank you!

You might also want to check out the best seafood market in Wilmington NC.

Elijah's

Highlights
Phenomenal food
Affordable and organized
Amazing service and views
Delicious seafood platter
Sweet and attentive server

This place truly offers a seafood experience unlike any other in Wilmington NC. From the minute I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat. The phenomenal food options on the menu were enough to make any seafood lover ecstatic.

Not only was the food outstanding, but the prices were also surprisingly affordable and the restaurant was well-organized. The attention to detail and the care put into every aspect of the establishment was evident from the moment I stepped inside.

But it wasn't just the food and the prices that impressed me. The amazing service provided by the staff and the stunning views of the waterfront made my dining experience truly memorable. The staff were professional, courteous, and incredibly attentive to every need.

Now let's talk about the delicious seafood platter that I ordered. It was a true feast for the senses. The freshness of the seafood, the perfect seasoning, and the beautiful presentation all combined to create a gastronomical delight. Every bite was an explosion of flavors that left me craving for more.

To top it all off, our server was sweet and attentive, ensuring that our glasses were always filled and our needs were met.

In conclusion, if you're looking for the best seafood in Wilmington NC, look no further than Elijah's. The combination of phenomenal food, affordable prices, amazing service, and stunning views make for an unforgettable dining experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in some of the finest seafood Wilmington NC has to offer at Elijah's.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Wilmington NC.

Dockside Restaurant

Highlights
Good food
Fresh peel shrimp
Delicious crab cakes
Scenic waterfront views
Casual beachy atmosphere

Let me start by saying that Dockside Restaurant is truly a hidden gem when it comes to experiencing the best seafood in Wilmington NC. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was immediately drawn to the casual beachy atmosphere that enveloped the restaurant.

As I perused the menu, one thing became abundantly clear - this place takes their seafood seriously. With a variety of options to choose from, I decided to start my culinary journey with a plate of fresh peel shrimp. The shrimp were incredibly flavorful and had that satisfying crunch that only comes from perfectly cooked seafood. It was a promising start to the meal.

Next up, I couldn't resist trying their famous crab cakes. Let me tell you, these crab cakes were pure perfection. They were deliciously seasoned, bursting with chunks of succulent crab meat, and delicately crispy on the outside. Each bite transported me to seafood heaven.

But it wasn't just the food that impressed me. As I glanced out of the window, I was greeted with breathtaking scenic waterfront views. The combination of good food and a picturesque setting made for a truly memorable dining experience.

In conclusion, Dockside Restaurant is a must-visit destination for any seafood lover in Wilmington NC. With their commitment to serving good, fresh seafood, and their delightful waterfront views, it's no wonder that this place stands out amongst the rest. So next time you find yourself in Wilmington, make sure to make a stop at Dockside Restaurant and prepare to be taken on a seafood adventure like no other.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Burlington VT.

The George on the Riverwalk

Highlights
Accommodating
Beautiful view
Delicious food
Peaceful atmosphere
Excellent service

From the moment I stepped into The George on the Riverwalk, I was greeted with accommodating smiles and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Located right on the river, the view was simply stunning; picture-perfect sunsets and the soothing sound of flowing water added to the beauty of the dining experience.

The menu boasted a variety of seafood options, and I was spoiled for choice. From the first bite, I knew I was in for a treat. The seafood was cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor, and presented elegantly on my plate. The freshness of the ingredients was undeniable, and each dish was a true delight for my taste buds.

What truly stood out, however, was the peaceful atmosphere that enveloped the restaurant. Despite being busy, the noise was minimal, allowing for intimate conversations and a relaxed dining experience. The staff's attention to detail and excellent service were the cherry on top, ensuring that my visit was one to remember.

Overall, The George on the Riverwalk surpassed my expectations. Everything from the delightful waterfront setting to the delectable seafood and attentive staff made for an extraordinary dining experience. If you're in Wilmington, NC and looking for the best seafood, The George on the Riverwalk is a must-visit. You won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Southport NC.

Seabird

Highlights
Awesome vibe
Phenomenal seafood tower
Fresh ingredients
Great service

Upon stepping into Seabird, I instantly fell in love with the awesome vibe that radiated throughout the restaurant. The coastal decor and lively atmosphere set the perfect tone for a seafood adventure.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, the seafood tower at Seabird was nothing short of phenomenal. As the tower arrived at our table, my eyes widened in anticipation. Each layer was loaded with an impressive assortment of the freshest seafood Wilmington has to offer. From succulent shrimp and plump oysters to delicate crab legs and mouthwatering lobster, every bite was a taste of oceanic perfection. The tower was clearly assembled with care and expertise, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to serving quality seafood.

Speaking of quality, it was evident that Seabird prides itself on using fresh ingredients. Every element of our dishes tasted vibrant and full of flavor, a testament to the premium seafood sourced from local waters.

Lastly, I must commend the great service we received at Seabird. The staff was attentive, knowledgeable, and made us feel right at home. They were more than happy to offer recommendations and answer any questions we had, ensuring an exceptional dining experience from start to finish.

In summary, Seabird in Wilmington NC is a seafood lover's paradise. With its awesome vibe, phenomenal seafood tower, fresh ingredients, and great service, it's a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the best seafood in the area. So go ahead and indulge in the ocean's bounty at Seabird; you won't be disappointed.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Washington State.

Seaview Crab Company Midtown Wilmington Retail Seafood Market

Highlights
Fresh fish and dinners to go
Nashville fried soft shell crab
Steamed platters of crabs, shrimp, and clams
Incredible friendliness of the staff

Let me start by saying that this place has some serious seafood game. As soon as I walked in, I was captivated by the mouthwatering display of fresh fish and other delectable treats. The best part? They offer dinners to go, making it a perfect option for those who want to impress their guests without sweating over a hot stove.

Now, let's talk about the Nashville fried soft-shell crab. Oh man, it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth! The crab was perfectly crisp on the outside, and the tangy Nashville seasoning gave it a unique and addictive kick. Trust me when I say, you won't find this kind of deliciousness just anywhere.

But if you're in the mood for a feast, their steamed platters are the way to go. Picture a heaping mound of crabs, shrimp, and clams, all steamed to perfection. It's a seafood lover's dream come true, and a surefire way to satisfy even the heartiest appetite.

One thing that struck me about Seaview Crab Company Midtown was the incredible friendliness of the staff. They welcomed me with warm smiles and genuine enthusiasm, making my dining experience all the more enjoyable.

In conclusion, if you're on the hunt for the best seafood in Wilmington NC, Seaview Crab Company Midtown is definitely worth a visit. Their fresh fish, unforgettable Nashville fried soft-shell crab, steamed platters, and the incredible friendliness of their staff make it a standout choice. Don't miss out on this hidden gem!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Huntington Beach.

Ceviche's

Highlights
Tastiest meals
Phenomenal waitress
Fish perfection
Amazing food
Gorgeous back patio

Let me start by saying that Ceviche's is a hidden gem when it comes to the best seafood in Wilmington NC. From the moment I walked in, I could sense an atmosphere of seafood perfection.

First and foremost, the meals at Ceviche's are nothing short of tastiest. Each dish is meticulously crafted, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you're a fan of shrimp, crab, or fish, they have something for everyone. I have to mention the fish perfection - firm, succulent, and cooked to absolute perfection.

Aside from the delectable food, the service at Ceviche's is top-notch. Our waitress was truly a phenomenal gem. Her friendly personality and knowledge of the menu set the stage for an exceptional dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the food once more. Every bite was an adventure of flavors, textures, and aromas. I couldn't help but be amazed by the sheer quality of the dishes. I found myself uttering "amazing food" under my breath every time a new plate was brought to our table.

To make it even better, Ceviche's has a gorgeous back patio where you can enjoy your meal under the warm sun or a starry sky. It's the ideal place to savor your seafood feast while sipping on a refreshing drink.

In conclusion, if you're on the lookout for the best seafood in Wilmington NC, look no further than Ceviche's. With its tastiest meals, phenomenal waitress, fish perfection, amazing food, and gorgeous back patio, Ceviche's is sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and your heart.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Arlington VA.

Marina Grill

Highlights
Good service
Amazing crab stuffed salmon
Beautiful views
Delicious food
Attentive staff

Let me start by saying that the service at Marina Grill was top-notch. From the moment I walked in the door, the staff was friendly, attentive, and made me feel right at home.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the seafood. Oh boy, was it delightful! I decided to try their highly recommended dish, the crab stuffed salmon. And let me tell you, it was like a flavor explosion in my mouth. The salmon was cooked to perfection, flaky and moist, with a generous amount of succulent crab meat stuffed inside. Each bite was heavenly and left me craving more.

Not only was the food delicious, but the surroundings were equally impressive. Marina Grill offers beautiful views of the marina, which added a touch of tranquility to my dining experience. It was the perfect setting to enjoy my seafood feast.

What truly stood out at Marina Grill was the attentiveness of the staff. They made sure I had everything I needed throughout my meal and were always there to answer any questions or offer recommendations. It's evident that the entire team at Marina Grill takes pride in providing excellent service.

In conclusion, Marina Grill definitely deserves a spot on the list of the best seafood restaurants in Wilmington NC. With their incredible seafood options, beautiful views, and attentive staff, it's a must-visit for any seafood lover. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Covington LA.

Seaview Crab Company Wilmington Kitchen

Highlights
Fried Seafood
Steam Shrimp
Outstanding
Great Shrimp
Excellent

Let me start by saying, wow! The Seaview Crab Company Wilmington Kitchen truly knows how to tantalize your taste buds with their delectable seafood offerings. From the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for a treat.

The first thing that caught my eye was their fantastic selection of fried seafood. Crispy and golden, each bite was filled with an explosion of flavor. The seafood was perfectly cooked, with a light and delicate batter that didn't overpower the natural taste of the ocean.

But it wasn't just the fried seafood that impressed me. The steam shrimp dish was an absolute standout. Each plump and juicy shrimp was steamed to perfection, bursting with sweetness. I couldn't get enough of these delightful morsels.

The overall experience was nothing short of outstanding. The staff was friendly and attentive, ensuring that every need was met. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, making you feel right at home.

I must also mention the great quality of the shrimp at Seaview Crab Company Wilmington Kitchen. Each bite was succulent and flavorful, a true testament to the excellent sourcing of their seafood.

In conclusion, if you're searching for excellent seafood in Wilmington NC, look no further than the Seaview Crab Company Wilmington Kitchen. They offer a variety of seafood dishes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you're in the mood for some mouth-watering fried seafood or succulent steam shrimp, this place has it all. Don't miss out on the chance to indulge in their seafood delights.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in Southern California.

Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Highlights
Great service
Delicious steamed oysters
Hot and flavorful seafood platter
Excellent atmosphere on the patio

From the moment I walked into Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar, I was greeted with great service that set the tone for the evening. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to ensure a memorable dining experience.

Now, let's talk about the delicious steamed oysters. They were fresh, plump, and bursting with flavor. Each bite was a truly heavenly experience. The oysters were cooked to perfection, retaining their natural sweetness and complemented with just the right amount of seasoning. It was almost like tasting the essence of the ocean itself.

Moving on to the hot and flavorful seafood platter. This dish was a delightful medley of perfectly cooked shrimp, flaky fish, and succulent scallops. Each bite was a crave-worthy explosion of flavors that left me wanting more. The seafood was expertly seasoned and paired well with a side of buttery garlic sauce.

One of the standout features of Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar is their excellent atmosphere on the patio. Whether you're looking for a romantic date night or a fun evening with friends, the patio provides a cozy and vibrant environment. The beautiful outdoor setting adds to the overall experience and makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a seafood feast.

In conclusion, Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar is a must-visit if you're looking for the best seafood in Wilmington NC. With its great service, delicious steamed oysters, hot and flavorful seafood platter, and excellent patio atmosphere, it's a seafood lover's paradise. So, grab your appetite and head over to Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar for an unforgettable dining adventure.

You might also want to check out the best seafood buffet in South Florida.

Bonefish Grill

Highlights
Delicious food
Great staff
Amazing service
Excellent presentation and flavors
Best service and food yet again

Walking through the door, the aroma of freshly grilled seafood greeted me and already got my taste buds in a frenzy. The first impression already promised a delightful experience and I couldn't wait to dig in.

The menu at Bonefish Grill offers a variety of delicious options, and it was not an easy task to make a choice. I finally settled on a mouthwatering grilled salmon dish, cooked to perfection. The flavors were exquisite, and the presentation was a work of art. Each bite was a symphony of taste.

I must commend the staff at Bonefish Grill for their exceptional service. They were attentive, friendly, and knowledgeable, willing to offer recommendations and answer any questions. The whole team went above and beyond to make my experience memorable.

One thing that struck me about Bonefish Grill was their attention to detail. The presentation of the dishes was outstanding, with every plate looking like it was straight out of a culinary magazine. They truly know how to wow their customers visually.

Overall, Bonefish Grill left a strong impression on me. The combination of impeccable service, flavorful dishes, and stunning presentation made for an unforgettable dining experience. If you're looking for the best seafood in Wilmington NC, I highly recommend checking out Bonefish Grill. You won't be disappointed.

You might also want to check out the best seafood in North Charleston SC.

Catch

Highlights
Best seafood
Attentive service
Delicious food
Relaxed atmosphere

Walking into Catch, I was immediately impressed by the relaxed atmosphere that invited me to sit back, unwind, and indulge in some of the best seafood Wilmington NC has to offer. The restaurant's sleek and modern design added a touch of sophistication to the experience.

The attentive service only added to the enjoyment. From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with warm smiles and knowledgeable staff who were eager to recommend their standout dishes. Their genuine passion for seafood was evident and contagious.

Now, let's talk about the food. Oh boy, it was a culinary delight! Every bite was an explosion of flavors that left me wanting more. From the perfectly grilled shrimp to the succulent lobster tail, each dish showcased the deliciousness of fresh seafood. The menu was thoughtfully curated, offering a wide variety of options for seafood lovers of all preferences.

One dish that truly stood out was the seared scallops served with a tangy lemon butter sauce. The scallops were seared to perfection, with a beautiful caramelized crust giving way to a tender and buttery center. The sauce added a zesty kick that elevated the dish to heavenly heights.

To end my delightful experience, I indulged in a decadent key lime pie. The creamy and tangy filling paired perfectly with the crispy graham cracker crust, leaving me with a sweet and refreshing finish.

Overall, Catch offers a seafood experience that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. With its best seafood, attentive service, and an array of delicious dishes, this restaurant truly deserves its spot in Wilmington NC's seafood scene. Don't miss out on this gem!

You might also want to check out the best seafood in Fort Walton FL.