How to spend a fall weekend on the Carolina coast.
If The Summer I Turned Pretty taught us anything, it’s that Wilmington is a bona fide storybook escape (IYKYK). The real-life backdrop for Cousins Beach is prime for a fall getaway, where cooler temps, golden-hour glow, and lighter crowds set the stage for exploring all the port city’s popular musts.
Scenic, sunny and steeped with standout stops, ILM seamlessly blends Southern charm with coastal cool across craveworthy cuisine, spirited bars, gallery gems, primo shops and more—perfect for a road trip or weekend escape when the mountains feel too obvious. Because, really—the coast is always calling.
DO
The Cargo District Shop, eat, drink and play local at this happening hub crafted from repurposed shipping containers. Built to “create, contain and connect,” each of the district’s three sections offer their own unique charm, with a host of varied businesses to venture into. Elevate your fall wardrobe at Auggie & Zo, find a cozy new read at Burning Pages, snag a piece of permanent jewelry at Tiny Weld, then satiate your appetite at Banh Sai, Beat Street or Cheesesmith—to name just a few hot spots. cargodistrict.com
Cucalorus Film Festival Movie buffs, this one’s for you. Putting Wilmywood in the spotlight is one of the largest noncompetitive American film festivals in the South, now in its 31st year. Taking place Nov. 19–23, the fest packs in 100+ independent and international films; diverse original stage performances; and over 50 panels, speakers and workshops. A perf excuse for that fall escape. And… action! cucalorus.org
Olivero “Tastes like travel, feels like home.” So goes the MO of Sunny Gerhart’s (of Raleigh’s St. Roch) worldly restaurant evoking flavors of Sevilla, Sicily and beyond, as inspired by his family history and personal experiences. That culinary tapestry is weaved together in such dishes as bucatini with chorizo and charred broccoli, or coal-roasted NC fish—best washed down with a warming one-of-a-kind cocktail. oliveroilm.com
Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp Prepare to be hooked. Since 1984, Elijah’s has served as a trusted source for fresh seafood and genuine Southern coastal dining—also boasting the largest porch on the Riverwalk. Fall marks peak oyster season—so anchor down for roasted or raw shucked-to-order oysters, plus broiled, fried or blackened seafood platters and snacks like baked crap dip and shrimp & grits. elijahs.com
The Half Brooklyn Arts District’s cult-fave sando company is taking the lunch staple to a whole new level (seriously, your homemade version could never). Standouts include the Cuban-esque Mixto feat. pastrami, ham, salami, mozzarella, olive salad and mixto sauce; or the vegetarian Caprese loaded with mozzarella, basil pesto, tomato and balsamic. But you literally can’t go wrong with any order—trust. thehalfbev.com
DRINK
Hidden Grounds Coffee Channeling major T. rex appeal, the dino-themed hidden haven stays busy for good reason. The fall menu shines with seasonal lattes—from the caramel apple-inspired Sundance Kid to the Dubai Me A Latte. Once you secure your bev, head up to the jungle-esque backyard oasis to sip from a perch on a cozy couch, table or swing. The inevitable line is so worth it. hiddengroundscoffee.com
Bespoke “From first light to last call,” this recently reimagined all-day cafe and cocktail bar is there to quench your thirst. By day, swing by for espresso-heavy classics or seasonal lattes—then, by night, keep the buzz alive at the moody wood-clad bar via Italian-inspired aperitivo selects like Appy spritz and Negroni, plus house cocktails, beer and wine. bespokecoffeenc.com
End of Days Distillery The best hour starts at the end of the day—especially at the Wilm-based distillery’s craft cocktail bar, The Lounge. The rugged yet intimate and airy space—plus spacious patio—offers a bright spot to imbibe in artisanal libations made exclusively with End of Days’ distilled-in-house spirits, ranging rum, vodka, gin, agave or whiskey—tailor-made for sweater weather. eoddistillery.com
Matt Ray Photography
STAY
ARRIVE Wilmington At once quaint, chic and playful, this boutique stay checks all the boxes—and then some. Like a mod adult playground with designer details, the inn doubles as a serene escape complete with the courtyard Gazebo Bar, fire pits, a lush lawn with various games, and on-site Southern coastal restaurant Dram Yard serving breakfast and dinner + weekend brunch. Inside, each of the 34 guest rooms offers its own intimate, whimsical retreat with mod amenities (see: marble-accented bathrooms, plush robes and Apple TVs)—fit for a fall reboot. arrivehotels.com
The Cove Riverwalk Villas Life’s better on the water—and the proof is in these 35 custom-designed 1,200-square-foot luxe floating houseboats located directly on the Cape Fear River. Cozy, spacious and stocked with your standard amenities—including Wi-Fi, heat/AC and a loaded kitchen—each villa also boasts a private patio perf for basking in the sunrise and sunset hues. A first of its kind, The Cove sets the standard for a waterfront stay unlike any other. thecovewilmington.com
Front Street Inn History meets hospitality at Front Street’s award-winning boutique inn. Serving up a real home-away-from-home feel, each of the 12 themed suites blends modern touches with historic charm—plus the Coastal Cottage, a full two-bedroom home on the property. Also on-site, the Concorde Espresso Bar tempts with coffee and seasonal lattes by day (plus baked goodies like cookies, croissants and cruffins) and fall-ready espresso ’tini flights and fireside s’mores by night. Say less. frontstreetinn.com
Toes in the water, ass in the sand… and a snack and a bevy in hand—obv. If you’re not posted up at a waterfront bar or resto, is it even summer?! Tour some of our fave sip and snack spots at NC lakes and beaches to lock into full-on vacay mode.
Beachy Keen
Sanitary Fish Market & Restaurant Come for the staple “Sanitary” tee, stay for the famed “deluxe shore dinner” (fried flounder, shrimp, oysters, bay scallops and soft crab)—or any of the fresh high-quality seafood caught by local fishermen!—at this treasured Crystal Coast resto on the water.
Sweet Spot Got a sweet tooth? This Emerald Isle, ahem, sweet spot has the scoop. Indulge in 50+ flavors of Hershey’s ice cream (make it a milkshake if you’re feelin’ frisky) or 70+ kinds of saltwater taffy.
SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki Bar Booze and bands… name a better duo—we’ll wait. This hidden paradise at Carolina Beach is known for its fab food and open-air live tunes, with drink specials on select days to boot (hey, $4 well liquor Wednesdays!). How bewitching.
Britts Donut Shop For the best doughnuts in NC hands down, head to this Carolina Beach boardwalk walkup counter, known for its homemade glazed doughnuts that have been satisfying beachgoers for over 80 years (!). Trust us, you do-nut want to pass up a bag of these babies while lazing the day away in the sand.
The Fat Pelican For a “beach trailer park chic” vibe, look no further than this Carolina Beach mainstay, offering the best beer selection in the area. Come for a brew every day from 11am to 2am (hair of the dog, anyone?) and/or grab some to enjoy on the water.
Ceviche’s This colorful beach shack just over the bridge from Wrightsville Beach serves up a delicious Panamanian menu inspired by owner Hunter Tiblier’s upbringing in Panama. Nourish your body with tapas, empanadas, seafood dishes and, of course, ceviches, all made with only the freshest of ingredients.
Ida Thai Cuisine This hidden gem at Carolina Beach serves up some of the best Thai food in the area—think chicken satay, spicy basil noodles, som tom (papaya salad) and a multitude of curries. The crowd-favorite coconut cake is heavenly—and a must-have dessert after any meal.
SUNdays No Sunday scaries here. By day, this South End WB cafe serves coffee, lattes, milkshakes, smoothies and acai bowls in rotating flavors. By night, come out for wine and local beer, plus grub from area food trucks.
Lake Life
Hello, Sailor It’s all smooth sailing at bright and sunny Lake Norman waterfront resto and bar Hello, Sailor, open seven days a week for Southern-inspired and seafood-focused fare (think NC peel ’n eat shrimp, and crispy flounder and chips)—plus cocktails, blended bevs, beer and wine. Pro tip: Pop a squat on the deck for primo sunset views.
The Gardens Restaurant Feast your eyes on gorge views of the Bald Mountain Golf Course while feasting on breakfast, lunch or dinner at this Rumbling Bald resto near Lake Lure. Faves include the pimento cheese BLT, casarecce pasta, and spinach and artichoke dip.
Bagel Boat It doesn’t get much better than bagels and boats. Hit up this Lake Wylie spot before spending the day on the water for a day that’s sure to be a hole-in-one.
LakeHouse Restaurant Home is where the lakeside eats are. Dock and dine on burgers, sandwiches, bayfront platters, seafood and more—then wash it all down with a lakeside libation (or two)—at this popular Lake Lure outpost.
If you’re cruisin’ down to Wrightsville Beach, you might as well venture into Wilmington for some sips and snacks as well. Here’s some of our recs.
Seabird Feelin’ salty? You’ll have no issue seasing the day at husband-and-wife team Dean Neff and Lydia Clopton’s historic downtown Wilmington seafood restaurant and oyster bar. Stop by in the morning before a day at the beach for grab-and-go pastries and biscuits baked fresh by Clopton, or tuck in at night for raw and baked oysters, small plates, entries and more.
Kipos Hellenic Cuisine Prolific restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias of Giorgios Hospitality Group promises to Greek you out—coastal style—with a menu celebrating the food of his’ homeland of Greece, with an added focus on the sea, naturally (think spanakopita, moussaka, raw oysters and seafood entrees). A lush partly covered patio, intimate herb and flower terrace, and romantic gazebos up the Mediterranean flair. Opa!
Dram & Draught Wilmington The uberpopular go-to neighborhood bar (and perennial voted Raleigh Mag Best Bar Overall) went coastal last year with a two-story (!) Port City location featuring the same vast whiskey collection and seasonal craft cocktail menu as all Dram sip spots—NTM the same cool, comfortable and sexy style and vibe that we all know and love.
Tarantellis Dubbed the best Italian food in Wilmington and known for its welcoming feel, the family-owned ristorante boasts an extensive selection of authentic Italian cuisine— all pastas and pastries made in house, of course. The Spaghetti al Formaggio Parmigiana—pasta tossed in a molten cheese wheel—will transport you straight to the boot. Buon’appetito!
Waterman’s Brewing Company Well-known NC brewmaster Bob High concocts a variety of easy-sipping beers that go down effortlessly after a day on the water. Choose from the Sea Love Sour made with locally harvested sea salt; Stoker’s Select, a passion fruit summer blonde ale; and more. Plus, enjoy daily specials like 75 cent wings on Wednesdays and half-price wine bottles on Thursdays.
Our recs for where to eat and drink in Wilmington right now.
Wilmington’s food and bev scene is on the comeup. And shining a spotlight on all those great eats and drinks is the first inaugural Feast Wilmington, which took place at Live Oak Bank Pavilion at Riverfront Park March 22–24—and Raleigh Magazine got the pleasure of attending.
With an MO of “showcasing and celebrating the Wilmington region’s emergence as a top culinary destination,” the F&B fest boasted four unique events over the course of the weekend, including a VIP kickoff Friday, an elevated brunch and evening pier party Saturday, and a beer and food pairing Sunday. To boot, Raleigh chefs who opened coastal restos repped during the fest—think Giorgios Bakatsias (G Prime) and Sunny Gerhart (Olivero).
Local musical guests set the tone as the city’s top chefs flexed their culinary skills each day while End of Days Distillery provided the sips—in addition to the 20 local breweries featured on day three.
After a full weekend of eating and drinking our way through the events, it’s safe to say Wilm proved itself as a burgeoning foodie city. Save a handful of dishes, almost everything we tasted at Feast was a hit—with our biggest complaint being we wished the bite-sizes were bigger (and that’s saying something).
Naturally, it’s hard to play favorites when there’s so much food to enjoy—but there were a few that stood out to us during our three-day foray into Wilm’s extensive eateries by way of Feast. During the VIP Kickoff on Friday night, it was the Anatra Alla Cacciatora Pizza from Benny’s Big Timethat had us coming back for seconds… and thirds (and maybe fourths—no judgment!). You can’t beat a good slice, and this one starring duck was quite impressive. Olivero’s crispy lasagna was another big hit in our book, as was Covey’s slow-roasted pork cheek with sour cherries, maple and crispy oats. An unusual combo, but it worked!
With EIC Melissa Howsam being a brunch stan, we had high hopes for day two’s morning event—and it did not disappoint. There were tons of shrimp and grits ops from which to choose (naturally), but our fave had to be Brunches’ version with a velvety lobster cream sauce. Other standouts includedBuen Dia’s rajitas con crema (roasted poblano pepper, onions and corn in a creamy sauce); Drift’s blueberry pancakes; and Oliver’s on the Cape Fear’s green eggs and ham, aka avocado devilled eggs topped with crispy pancetta and served with a side of smoked maplewood bacon.
While it started off as a rainy weekend, the sun finally came up in time for the end of the brunch event, and by time the Pier Party rolled around things were drying off. Our faves from this night included Coquina Fishbar’s house-smoked fish dip, Maine Lobstah Shack’s lobster bisque and PinPoint’s smoked pork belly.
And while we were relatively stuffed by Sunday, we legit couldn’t wait to ~feast~ some more. Standouts included Beat Street’s Ahi Tuna Toastada Copper Penny’s meatballs and Los Portales Taqueria’s tacos al pastor. We’ll definitely be adding all of these spots to our list of places to visit the next time we’re in town—and you should too.
Beyond our, well, feast, Wilm’s sip + stay vibes are too good not to imbibe. Here, where to tuck in the next time you’re on the coast.
The Blind Elephant It’s worth sleuthing down an alley off North Front Street—and potentially getting lost— to experience this hidden speakeasy and “home of spirits and secrets.” Peep the colorful chalkboard menu for a rotating lineup of cheekily named “elixirs” (see: the spicy Fire Walk With Me and Game, Set, Matcha), cocktails on tap and mocktails—or just ask the bartender to whip you up something fun and fresh. We rec cozying up in one of the spacious booths to experience the lively yet intimate atmosphere, plus regular live tunes. @theblindelephant
Drift We can guarantee it’s worth ~drifting~ out of bed for a cup of java—or refreshing latte or smoothie—paired with a healthy yet delicious brekkie or lunch in the casual light-filled atmosphere (it’s a vibe—and you’ll def feel like you’re on the coast). The Bodega Breakfast Sandwich and breakfast burrito are cult faves, but the Market Bowl Breakfast is also a tasty light op. Ask for the homemade pesto on the side to top your meal with—I promise it’s a game changer. P.S. Stay tuned to our May issue for news on Drift’s wave into Raleigh! driftcoffee.kitchen
Arrive + Dram Yard For a cute and quaint stay, look no further than this highly ’Grammable boutique hotel boasting 34 guest rooms, a restaurant and courtyard bar with fire pits. When we tell you we spent half our weekend at the gazebo bar sipping cocktails and chatting with the bartender and other guests, we’re not kidding. Frankly, there’s nowhere else we’d rather be on a warm sunny day—save the beach, obv. Our rooms were also gorgeous (s/o the pink bathroom!), and the beds were oh-so-cozy. A serene stay all around—would sleep (and drink) there again. arrivehotels.com
Coglin’s Fill that empty hole in your heart left when Coglin’s Raleigh location closed (RIP) and break out your dancing shoes. The ’80s- and ’90s-themed bar is truly a blast from the past, with all your fave jams on rotation and a dance floor big enough to really bust a move—plus jiggle juice in the form of fish bowls, shooters, buckets and cocktails. “This is how we do it!” coglins.com
The Husk With an ever-so-apt tagline—“A neighborhood bar where you feel like a neighbor, even if you aren’t”—you’ll feel right at home in the casual drinking den (especially if there’s a State game on—go Pack!), with the vibey patio being a prime socializing spot. The full bar offers up all your faves—from classic ’tails to beer and seltzer—while the food menu comes in clutch when the drunchies hit. Think fries and tots, hot dogs, pizza, pretzel bites, and more. huskdowntown.com
Hidden Grounds Giving major “rex” appeal (get it?!), this cute backyard oasis dino-themed coffee shop is a major vibe. Upon discovering it a few months ago, it’s now a must whenever I visit Wilm. The line will inevitably be long, but it’s worth it once you’re sipping on one of the specialty coffee bevs (the chai is also killer) out on the grassy back patio, which offers myriad seating ops—from covered couches to swing chairs to plush seats. And, naturally, hidden dinos are aplenty (a fan + fam fave). Talk about a dino-mite experience! @hiddengroundsilm
Duck and Dive Pub Duck into this dive bar for none other than a simple mixed drink, beer, wine or shot to get the night started or close it out. A genuine watering hole without all the frills—but with plenty of character—the spot also hosts live music on the reg, in addition to drink specials daily. Cheap drinks and a good time? Say less. @duck_and_dive_pub_ilm
Dram & Draught Miss home?Dram’s signature cool-classy ambiance gets a Wilmington makeover with more casual surrounds and the same exquisite cocktails you know and love—plus a few local specialties. Post up at the bar or slide into one of the window seats for a street view perf for people-watching. Cheers! dramanddraught.com
Your go-to guide to a Southern-meets-coastal fall destination.
Fall leaves 🤝 coastal breeze. Soothe your seasonal depression with a slight chill from the river via a quick getaway to Wilmington, North Carolina’s largest coastal city. Bundle up and skip the saltwater rushing over your toes (never mind it’s too cold for that) and trade it for garden explorations, walking tours and historical sites galore—let alone the myriad bites and brews to refuel in between.
Not only does the vibrant riverside city offer an upbeat arts and culture scene, an array of locally owned restaurants and shops, and a World War II battleship, the Port City also touts a charming 230-plus-block historic district feat. moss-draped trees around every corner (it’s giving Savannah and we’re here for it…), ideal for a gorgeous autumnal stroll. Who says the coast isn’t fit for a cool-weather getaway?!
DO
Film and TV Locations Tour
Ready, set, action! Lace up some comfy shoes and stroll through this self-guided walking tour hitting all the city’s famous—and infamous—filming sites, including current productions in process. Dubbed “Hollywood East” and “Wilmywood,” the area has served as set locations for 400+ films and televisions shows, from One Tree Hill to The Summer I Turned Pretty to Iron Man 3 to a scad of indie productions. wilmingtonandbeaches.com
Wilmington Riverwalk
Just go with the flow. Stroll, sip and shop your way through a ~2-mile boardwalk along the Cape Fear River serving over 200 restaurants, bars, boutiques, art galleries and a concert venue—NTM the spectacular (and super-’Grammable!) views along the way. Don’t forget to make a pit stop at Conlon Pier to reel one in or catch a glimpse of the sunset. It’s all about the journey! wilmingtonandbeaches.com
Airlie Gardens
Keep things light and airy with a frolic through 67+ acres of green gardens, seasonal blooms, mighty oaks, Spanish moss and dozens of art pieces (do it for the ’Gram!). And get in the holiday spirit via Enchanted Airlie, an annual tradition starting Nov. 24 displaying holiday lights and music. We give it two green thumbs up! airliegardens.org
EAT
Kipos photo by Shannon Kelly
Kipos Hellenic Cuisine
It’s all Greek to us… especially when dining at Giorgios Bakatsias’ Hellenic eatery highlighting the sea, naturally, with ~80% of the seafood sourced locally (!). Inspired by Bakatsias’ Greek homeland, the menu is a celebration of the Karista village where he grew up. Mussel up for locally sourced pan-seared grouper, grilled whole fish and NC shrimp, to name just a few fishy selects—paired with Greek wines and an airy atmosphere. Pro tip: Spring for a table in the lush garden patio, from where the name Kipos (meaning “garden”) hails. kiposwilmington.com
Seabird
Land ho! For a literal taste of the Atlantic—think shrimp, oysters, crab and more—look no further than Dean Neff and Lydia Clopton’s celebrated sustainable seafood resto. Featuring weekend brunch and dinner, the rotating menu changes with the seasonality of seafood, sourced locally when possible. Pair with a craft cocktail (Cat’s Pyjamas, anyone?) or an espresso bev during the daytime for a meal worth sailing home for. seabirdnc.com
Olivero
Pickled shrimp, ribeye and a plethora of pasta picks? This flavorful joint has ~olive~ the above. Apart from the extensive menu of carefully curated Spanish- and Italian-influenced New Orleans dishes, the delicious brainchild of Raleigh’s own James Beard-nominated chef Sunny Gerhart concocts creative signature cocktails, moody lighting and kitschy nautical vibes—all the while paying homage to his mother’s family and the influence they’ve had on his cooking. Smooth sailing (and dining!) spotted ahead. oliveroilm.com
DRINK
The Maroon Monkey
The perfect morning stop to prepare for a day of monkeying around—found. Before going bananas around downtown, stop in for a cuppa at this locally owned/operated coffee shop starring a cozy atmosphere and bold menu. Pro tip: The bananas Foster latte and white hot chocolate are ape-solutely delicious. maroonmonkeycoffee.com
Front Street Brewery
Belly up for smooth sippin’ on 485 bourbon and whiskey ops (NC’s largest whiskey selection!) and 14 beers on tap from the city’s longest operating brewery, established in a circa-1865 building that has housed everything from a dentist office to a dry goods store. When hunger hits, dig into Southern cuisine—paired with a beer or bourbon recommended by the bartender. Front-page newsworthy, indeed! frontstreetbrewery.com
Blue Post Billiards
Take the easy shot when imbibing at Water Street’s former sailor hangout and nostalgic billiards hall reputed for its array of pool tables, Skee Ball, darts, air hockey, arcade games and the like. Bust a move to a complete playlist of ’80s hits and keep your eyes peeled for any unusual activity—aka the ghost of an 18th century bartender said to roam around. Probably the effect of one too many drinks… right?facebook.com/bluepostbilliards
STAY
Hotel Ballast
When by the coast, snooze in nautical style. Catch classy Z’s at “Wilmington’s Favorite Waterfront Hotel,” a riverside retreat offering soothing undertones of sea blues and driftwood in spacious suites overlooking the river and Downtown Wilmington, also boasting a coastal kitchen and cafe downstairs for a quick bite on your way in or out. hotelballast.com
Verandas
Rest your head in quiet and timeless luxury at an award-winning bed-and-breakfast serving major coastal grandmother vibes—complete with four stories, two parlors, four verandas, a garden terrace and screened-in porch. Nestled a mere two blocks from the Cape Fear River, the location is ideal for days spent shopping, walking and sipping around the city. verandasbedandbreakfast.com
Taylor House Inn
Southern comfort never looked so good! Roll out of bed with the historical district at your doorstep, and end your day on a porch swing enjoying the coastal breeze—compliments of a stay at North Seventh Street’s welcoming boutique inn. Come nighttime, settle into one of the five grandeur rooms touting mahogany furniture and colorful wallpaper, and take a well-deserved soak in the clawfoot tub, then relax by the working fireplace. *Ahhh.* taylorhousebb.com
