Fresh catch: Casual seafood spots Wilmington locals love

Fresh seafood is a way of life in Wilmington.

Whether you're craving fried shrimp, oysters on the half shell, a seafood platter or the catch of the day, the area is filled with relaxed restaurants where great food takes center stage. From longtime local institutions to newer neighborhood favorites, these seafood spots deliver fresh flavors without the formality.

Key takeaways

• The bigger picture: Wilmington is home to a variety of casual seafood restaurants serving fresh local catches year-round.
• The details: Favorites include neighborhood seafood joints, waterfront restaurants and classic oyster bars.
• Why this matters: These restaurants offer an authentic taste of the coast in a laid-back setting.
• The more you know: Several local favorites source seafood from North Carolina waters whenever possible.

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant

A longtime local favorite, Fish Bites is known for generous portions, fresh local seafood and a menu that ranges from fried platters to grilled fish and shrimp tacos. The casual atmosphere makes it equally popular for family dinners and quick lunches, while the adjoining seafood market lets guests take fresh seafood home.

• Address: 6132 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington
• Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday
• Phone: (910) 791-1117

Fish House Grill

Located beside the Wrightsville Beach Drawbridge, Fish House Grill pairs fresh seafood with beautiful Intracoastal Waterway views. Guests can enjoy fish tacos, seafood nachos, fried oysters and local catches while watching boats cruise by from the outdoor deck.

• Address: 1410 Airlie Road, Wilmington
• Hours: 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday
• Phone: (910) 256-3693

Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar

Serving Wilmington since 1980, Hieronymus has become a local staple for classic coastal seafood. The menu features oysters, peel-and-eat shrimp, fresh fish and traditional seafood platters in a welcoming, casual dining room that celebrates the family's commercial fishing roots.

• Address: 5035 Market St., Wilmington
• Hours: 3-8:30 p.m. Monday-Wednesday and Sunday; 3-9 p.m. Thursday-Saturday
• Phone: (910) 392-6313

Dockside Restaurant

Dockside has been welcoming boaters and seafood lovers to the Intracoastal Waterway for decades. The relaxed waterfront setting is perfect for enjoying fresh seafood, fish tacos and cold drinks while watching boats come and go.

• Address: 1308 Airlie Road, Wilmington
• Hours: 11:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m. daily
• Phone: (910) 256-2752

Boathouse Restaurant

Overlooking Bradley Creek, Boathouse Restaurant offers a laid-back coastal atmosphere with fresh seafood served from breakfast through dinner. Whether you're stopping in for oysters, shrimp and grits or the daily catch, the waterfront setting makes every meal feel like a vacation.

• Address: 6328 Oleander Drive, Wilmington
• Hours: 7 a.m.-9 p.m. daily
• Phone: (910) 679-4224

Bluewater Waterfront Grill

Bluewater Waterfront Grill is a Wrightsville Beach favorite overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway. Known for fresh seafood, waterfront views and a spacious outdoor patio, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a casual lunch or sunset dinner while watching boats pass by.

• Address: 4 Marina St., Wrightsville Beach
• Hours: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday
• Phone: (910) 256-8500