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Restaurants near University of North Carolina Wilmington

Discover the vibrant dining scene surrounding the University of North Carolina Wilmington, an academic hub nestled between coastal charm and urban excitement. Where to Eat Near University of North Carolina Wilmington? Explore a diverse culinary landscape that caters to every taste and occasion. Enjoy American classics in a friendly tavern atmosphere, savor fresh seafood with delightful riverfront views, or indulge in contemporary dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for coastal delicacies or hearty brunch options, nearby restaurants offer a delightful selection of flavors, from casual fare to upscale dining experiences. With options that celebrate both regionally inspired dishes and global cuisine, your dining adventure near the university promises to be satisfying and unforgettable.
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46 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of Fortuna Cucina Italiana restaurant
1. Fortuna Cucina Italiana
4.7
Exceptional(277)
€€€€
• Italian • Wilmington
Booked 50 times today
Fortuna Cucina Italiana is a contemporary Italian restaurant focused on seasonality, craftsmanship, and high-quality, thoughtfully-sourced ingredients. Its organic-driven menu emphasizes simplicity, traditional techniques, and careful preparation, allowing the natural flavors of each dish to shine. Designed as a versatile, everyday dining destination, Fortuna offers a welcoming atmosphere suited for both casual meals and intimate gatherings, with a commitment to consistency, quality, and understated elegance.The concept comes from restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias, a prominent Southeast hospitality leader with over 30 years of experience developing acclaimed restaurants and markets. Leading the kitchen is Executive Chef and Partner Chris Lewnes, whose Italian American roots and classical French training—refined in notable kitchens like Bâtard, Augustine, and Sartiano’s—inform his approach. Together, they deliver refined Italian cuisine with authenticity, precision, and warmth.
A photo of Seabird restaurant
2. Seabird
4.9
Exceptional(2110)
€€€€
• Seafood • Wilmington
Booked 38 times today
Mindfully sourced and thoughtfully prepared ingredients highlight the landscape of the food in our coastal community. Menu subject to change daily with local availability of seafood and produce. Owned and operated by James Beard finalist chef Dean Neff. Reservations available for dinner Wednesday through Monday. Closed Tuesdays.Brunch now served Saturday & Sunday!
A photo of Floriana - Wilmington restaurant
3. Floriana - Wilmington
4.7
Exceptional(1881)
€€€€
• Italian • Wilmington
Booked 24 times today
We are open for carry out and for dine-in guests. The balcony tables are available first come first serve within our reservations. If one is not available upon arrival, guests are welcome to wait at the bar or in the lounge until one becomes available. We are open for Dinner MON-SUN 4:30 pm till 9:30 pm.Floriana Restaurant is about friends, family and community. We are an independently-owned Italian bistro serving dishes made with seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers. We pride ourselves on our menu, service and passion for food. Our beautifully appointed dining room is the perfect setting for any occasion — an intimate, romantic dinner, or when you have reason for celebration and want all your closest friends together at the same table.The Wilmington Floriana Restaurant is located in Wilmington, NC riverside at 2 Market Street.
A photo of Tarantelli’s restaurant
4. Tarantelli’s
4.7
Exceptional(3451)
€€€€
• Italian • Wilmington
Booked 29 times today
Tarantelli’s is located on Second Street, just one block from Front Street and in walking distance to the Cape Fear River. The restaurant and event venue is located in the historic district of downtown Wilmington. This lively area spans 230-plus blocks and is home to some of the best bars, restaurants, churches, architecture, and selection of fine art. There are several parking facilities nearby, but you can also reach Tarantelli's year round via horse drawn trolley and carriage, river taxi, trolley cars, or on foot.
A photo of G Prime restaurant
5. G Prime
4.7
Exceptional(529)
€€€€
• Steakhouse • Wrightsville Beach
Booked 7 times today
G Prime offers the highest level of service and ingredients for the entire community to enjoy – from beautifully curated and customizable prime cuts, locally sourced fish and fresh seasonal produce, a classic craft cocktail and mixology program, to one of the largest, most prolific wine cellars in the area.
A photo of River 128 Restaurant restaurant
6. River 128 Restaurant
4.5
Awesome(485)
€€€€
• Seafood • Wilmington
Booked 12 times today
River 128 Restaurant, located in downtown Wilmington, NC, offers an unforgettable dining experience on the Cape Fear River. Enjoy fresh, locally inspired cuisine with stunning views of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, the USS North Carolina Battleship, and breathtaking sunsets. Dine inside or on our heated outdoor decks, and bring your furry friends to one of the area’s only dog-friendly restaurants. Arrive by car or boat—take advantage of free parking vouchers and our 90-ft floating dock. River 128 is your destination for exceptional food, waterfront dining, and Southern hospitality.
A photo of Quanto Basta: Italian Eatery & Wine Bar - Wilmington restaurant
7. Quanto Basta: Italian Eatery & Wine Bar - Wilmington
4.8
Exceptional(1405)
€€€€
• Italian • Wilmington
Booked 23 times today
Located in the heart of historic downtown Wilmington, QB’s diverse yet comforting flavors are reminiscent of a casual but unique Italian neighborhood restaurant, complete with seating in a lush, private courtyard with a stunning fountain ~ a true oasis in an urban setting.
A photo of Caprice Bistro restaurant
8. Caprice Bistro
4.4
Awesome(3620)
€€€€
• French • Wilmington
Booked 20 times today
Bonjour! We’re delighted you’ll be joining us for a memorable dining experience.Reservations are preferred, though walk-ins are always welcome.Hours:Open 7 days a week · Monday-Saturday Dinner: 4 PM–10 PMSunday: 4 PM–9 PMSpecials:Enjoy our $7 H-appy Hour Petit Plates from 4-6 PM daily at the bar, bistro tables, outside, or in our cozy sofa lounge.Parking:A parking deck is located one block away on Market Street (between Front & Second Streets). Paid street parking is also available — free after 6:30 PM and free all day Sunday.Your table will be reserved for 2 hours, and we kindly ask that you honor your reservation time. If you’d like a longer dining experience, please reach out so we can happily accommodate your request.For parties larger than 5 guests, please contact us directly so we can best assist you.Merci beaucoup — we look forward to welcoming you soon!
A photo of Dram Yard at ARRIVE restaurant
9. Dram Yard at ARRIVE
4.7
Exceptional(329)
€€€€
• American • Wilmington
Booked 8 times today
Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Dram Yard offers dinners featuring Southern coastal flavors with a global twist. Join us for craft cocktails, carefully curated wine and beer offerings, and thoughtful preparations of locally sourced ingredients in our re-opened dining room.
A photo of True Blue Butcher & Table - The Forum restaurant
10. True Blue Butcher & Table - The Forum
4.5
Awesome(1191)
€€€€
• Contemporary American • Wrightsville Beach
Booked 8 times today
True Blue Butcher & Table, the flagship restaurant of the We Are True Blue brands, is located in The Forum in Wilmington, NC. Reflecting global cuisine with a modern American interpretation, Chef Bobby Zimmerman has crafted a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, quality cuts of steak, an extensive and delicious drink selection, and an impressive butcher counter. We are open seven days a week for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

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Dining near University of North Carolina Wilmington at a glance

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Main & Mill Oyster Bar & Tavern

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Exceptional reviews

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Seafood

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€25 and under

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Ronald
    Coastal North Carolina •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Excellent Food and Service. Will definitely return.
    More info
    Seabird$$$$• Seafood• Wilmington
    •
    4.9
  • Kim
    Charlotte •3 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We went there for my son‘s birthday. We had a wonderful experience. The food was excellent. The service was excellent. The cocktails were excellent. We could not even happier. We will definitely be back .
    More info
    G Prime$$$$• Steakhouse• Wrightsville Beach
    •
    4.7
  • Stanley
    1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great experience all around! The outdoor balcony seating was a nice touch and made the atmosphere even better. The service was great, the staff was friendly and attentive, and the food came out hot and fresh. Everyone was welcoming, and we really enjoyed our dinner.
    More info
    Floriana - Wilmington$$$$• Italian• Wilmington
    •
    4.7
  • Grace
    Coastal North Carolina •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Such a great vibe on the outdoor patio with fireplace roaring!! Truly one of the best restaurants in Wilmington. Focaccia is amazing and the squash ravioli in browned butter was the most delicious comfort food! Sal and Quinn both came by to welcome us and Alex's service was on point. Highly recommend
    More info
    Fortuna Cucina Italiana$$$$• Italian• Wilmington
    •
    4.7
  • Barry
    Coastal North Carolina •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Spectacular food, great service. This place has never failed to give us an excellent experience.
    More info
    Tarantelli’s$$$$• Italian• Wilmington
    •
    4.7

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