My Town: Wilmington

Garden & Gun runs a series entitled "My Town" where writers, artists, and celebrities share their idea of a perfect day in their hometown.  Julia Reed for New Orleans, Shakey Graves for Austin, and John Fleer for Asheville; just to name a few.  I thought I would create my own, for Wilmington.  Although, I couldn't really limit my recommendations to one day.  Here you will find my entire city guide: my top restaurants, shops, and must see spots in Wilmington.  After four years back in the city, I have selected my tried and true favorites.

Activities

Walk the Loop @ Wrightsville Beach

Shopping @ Mayfaire, Lumina Station, & Landfall Center

Antiquing @ The Ivy Cottage

Pop in Redix @ Wrightsville Beach

Walk the Riverfront

Ice Cream @ Kilwins

Paddle board @ Wrightsville Beach
Britt's Donuts @ Carolina Beach

Time to Eat

Breakfast

Beau's Coffee House- 

This spot is serving great coffee with a sweet concept; all employees are mentally or physically challenged. 

Jester's Java- 

Located in a bungalow on Castle St. this breakfast/lunch spot never disappoints.

Causeway Cafe- 

Your basic breakfast dive, but with consistently delicious food.  Also, you can't beat the location.

Lunch

Fishhouse- 

I don't often recommend restaurants on the water.  Truth be told, the food underwhelms. However, Fishhouse has good food and an impressive view of the waterway. 

Sweet and Savory- 

This is a great deli/bakery located near Wrightsville Beach. Wonderful sandwiches! Also, don't miss the homemade chips.

Fork and Cork- 

This tiny little spot is delivering big flavor.  Try their duck wings or one of their burgers.

Copper Penny- 

The best pub food I have ever eaten. Do yourself a favor and order the spicy garlic wings or anything else on the menu.  You really will not be disappointed.  Expect a crowd, the place is the worst kept secret in the downtown area.

K38- 

A tex-mex gem on Oleander with killer chips and salsa. Sister restaurants, Tower 7 and Las Olas, are both good as well.

Dinner:

RX- 

This is my most favorite restaurant in Wilmington.  A farm to table concept located in an old drugstore on Castle Street.

Indochine- 

The coolest spot in Wilmington.  Eat in the garden and order the Jungle Curry. 

San Juan Cafe- 

Located in a modest building on Wrightsville Avenue, this spot delivers authentic Latin American flavors time and time again.

Brasserie- 

French Bistro near the beach.  Create your own salad or enjoy one of their killer French dishes.

Terrazos- 

Authentic Italian located near Wrightsville Beach. 

Dock Street Oyster Bar- 

A great dive for oysters and stemmed seafood. 

Drinks

Dockside

The perfect spot for afternoon cocktails.  Located on the waterway, it is the ideal location to watch the sun go down.

Fortunate Glass

A sweet little bar located on Front Street with an extensive wine menu.

The Brewer's Kettle

An old gas station turned bar, offering select craft brews and a cute place to play cornhole.

Satellite

Quite possibly the coolest bar in Wilmington.  It is located a bit of the beaten path but well worth the trip.  Typically feature some great bands on the weekend.  Sunday nights are dedicated to bluegrass.  

Manna

Head here for pre-dinner drinks.  Ian Murray, bartender extraordinaire, is constantly shaking up unique craft cocktails.

Beach Bars

You can never go wrong with a night spent on Wrightsville Beach.  Also, enjoy a late night hot dog at Trolley Stop.