North Carolina’s 300-mile long, the diverse coastal line is littered with not just the most beautiful and historic twins but also thousands of cafes and restaurants. Here’s a list of a few of my favorite picks of restaurants that you are sure to love!

1. Jebby’s on 17

Located on Highway 17N, Hamstead, Jebby’s is an American bar/pub-style restaurant. This small and quaint place offers some of the best finger-licking good food promptly served by their sassy waiters. I especially love their amazing fried chicken. At Jebby’s, I had one of the best Bloody Mary’s I’ve ever tasted. They offer a wide selection on their menu for lunch, dinner, and after-hours with a choice of special diets including Vegetarian Friendly, Vegan Options, and Gluten-Free.

2. Brunches

Brunches has their own saying- Mimosa Made Me Do It! Which completely works for them, considering their mimosas are to die for. Find them at Wilmington, now open at two locations- Mayfaire and Randall.

Brunches’ goal is to bring you a restaurant you would enjoy coming to with your family and friends. They strive to serve each customer with the perfect dining experience, with their cafe-style ambiance. It’s safe to say their California Benedict and Mimosas do just that, all the while making your Sundays the best you ever had. They offer all breakfast combos imaginable, including chicken and waffles, chicken biscuits, Angus beef burgers, and mac and cheese bowls.

3. Cast Iron Skillet

This Southern Deli and Restaurant in Wilmington certainly deliver on its promise of ‘re-inventing and re-inspiring the classic idea of the Southern breakfast and lunch experience.’ I particularly enjoy my Southern offerings and absolutely love the authentic food served here. Get there early on the weekends because there’s always a truckload of customers just waiting to get inside.

4. Burrito Shak

Quick. Crafted. Coastal. This place offers a little touch of Huntington Beach, California, all the way in Coastal North Carolina! The Mexican/Southwestern cuisine is positively reviewed, and they possibly serve the best tacos in all of North Carolina. With large portions, super speedy service, and quality food, there’s no question why the Burrito Shak is a local and tourist favorite. Their salads are fresh, burrito bowls are mouth-watering, and their S-Turn Burritos couldn’t get any better.

5. Shaka Taco

This place is centered in the heart of Surf City, NC, and prides itself on its fresh food. They serve Mexican, Southwestern, and International styled cuisines. Shaka Taco is the only place you can find ACAI bowls, specialty street-style tacos, and a delectable array of chicken wings. It also has outdoor seating just steps away from the waves and a local surf shop!