The best restaurants in Brunswick County

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Warm bistro offering Mediterranean, Continental & American entrees & small plates, plus a full bar.”

“Take-out specialist also offering casual dining-in with salads, sandwiches & other American fare.”

“Casual eatery featuring deli sandwiches, soups, and made-to-order salads.”

“Relaxed fixture offering burgers, fries and sandwiches, plus seafood specialties.”

“Family-friendly eatery dishing up generous portions of American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”

“Little Bit's Grill keeps it classic with juicy burgers and throwback American plates in a cozy, no-fuss space. Born from an immigrant family's journey from Saigon to Oak Island, it's the kind of spot locals hit when they want flavor, nostalgia, and a friendly hello that actually feels genuine.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 31, 2026

“New York–style pizzeria dishing up pies, pasta, subs, and more in a casual setting.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Rice & noodle dishes, Mongolian grilled fare & sushi, dished up a relaxed setting with full bar.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“Casual restaurant offering sushi, hibachi meals, and other Japanese fare, plus beer and wine.”

“Family-friendly buffet lunch of classic comfort food & an à la carte dinner menu, focused on steak.”

“High-end local seafood, steaks, prime rib & more in a ship-themed setting complete with lifeboats.”

“Relaxed brewery and restaurant featuring craft brews and pizzas alongside wings and other eats.”

“Laid-back outlet serving Japanese cooked dishes alongside creative sushi rolls & sashimi.”

“Swain's Seafood and Cut Restaurant keeps it simple and good with fried oysters, shrimp, and a legit salad bar, plus that family-recipe Blue Crab dip from their Oak Island roots. If you’re craving surf and a perfectly seared steak, cap it with a dessert from the adjacent Stuffed Bakery and market.”

“When your crew wants twirl-worthy pasta, creamy risotto, and a proper steak without leaving Brunswick County, Lucca Italian Chophouse hits the spot with an easygoing vibe locals love. Bonus points if you're feeding a crowd, since their catering makes neighborhood get-togethers a breeze.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Enchiladas, fajitas, margaritas, and other familiar Mexican fare in a casual setting with a bar.”

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“Shallotte's go-to for wings and seafood where they catch their own fish from the Ocean Isle Fishing Center fleet, keep the game on, and pour 25 American beers on tap. Wing & Fish Company backs it up with 28 wing flavors and the kind of lively vibe that makes weeknights feel like weekends.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Sister restaurant to Lucca's Italian Chophouse, this pizzeria offers casual seating along with gluten-free choices.”

“Cute shop offering fresh bagels to go or for sandwiches, plus waffle breakfast plates, and burgers.”

“Intimate, casual bar & restaurant preparing hearty Italian & Italian-American specialties.”

“Understated restaurant serving hearty & classic Mexican grub alongside beer & tequila drinks.”

“Oak Island folks, when the gyro urge hits and you want something quick but actually fresh, Sunset Grill keeps it easy with juicy gyros, falafel, smash burgers, and customizable bowls with shrimp, lamb or chicken. Solid vegan and gluten-free options, plus delivery or catering for your crew.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Locally sourced seafood, steaks, burgers & other American fare from a cozy place with a bar & patio.”

“When you want a laid back local spot for chips and salsa, sizzling fajitas, and a margarita that hits the right notes, San Felipe Mexican Restaurant is a dependable go-to. With locations in Leland, Shallotte, and Southport, meeting up close to home is easy.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 19, 2026

“San Felipe Mexican Restaurant keeps it easy for Leland folks with sizzling fajitas, classic plates that hit right, and a kids' menu for hassle-free family nights. Start with chips and salsa, then let a well-made margarita remind you why this is your reliable midweek move.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 7, 2026

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

“Relaxed chain serving a menu of breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in a colorful setting.”

“Oak Island Sub Shop has been serving locals since 2004 with hot and cold subs, wraps, and crisp salads made in-house daily. Go specialty or build-your-own on freshly baked bread, enjoy fresh romaine with a mini croissant, and soak up the bright, maritime vibe that feels reliably hometown.”

“Casual restaurant serving breakfast and comfort food lunch offerings, including a popular Monte Cristo.”

“Relaxed chain serving a menu of breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in a colorful setting.”

“Islands Fresh Mex Grill hits the local sweet spot with made-to-order burritos, tacos, salads and more, all fast, fresh, and affordable. Build your own, sample the sauces, snag takeout or delivery, and keep their catering in mind for the next backyard gathering.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 14, 2026

“American classics such as burgers and crab cakes feature at this casual eatery with a full bar.”

“Comfort food, pasta dishes, pizza and Italian classics with a casual vibe.”

“Laid-back diner serving casual American meals such as eggs & sandwiches for breakfast & lunch.”

“Counter-serve chain serving fried chicken & Eastern North Carolina-style BBQ in vinegar-based sauce.”

“The Pepperoni Grill slings hand-tossed New York style pies in Boiling Spring Lakes and Oak Island, with gluten-free options if that's your lane. Add wings or a classic sub, and you’ve got the kind of beachside comfort that turns weeknights into small celebrations.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Retro-themed chain with a 1950s soda-fountain look, dishing out familiar fast-food selections.”

“Convenience store-based pizza chain doling out create-your-own pies along with wings.”

“Casual taqueria serving Mexican cuisine from tacos and burritos to fish 'n' chips.”

“Casual, homey eatery featuring pizza and a large menu of breakfast staples and plates from lunch.”

“Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.”

“American fare and cocktails are served in a laid-back spot with marina views and live music.”

“Casual restaurant with hibachi grills and sushi rolls, plus Japanese decor.”

“Casual restaurant serving Mexican fare including fajitas, margaritas, and other cocktails.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“American breakfast, burgers & sandwiches, plus baked goods, in a simple, upbeat setting.”

“The typical American diner menu at this welcoming restaurant is served for breakfast & lunch.”

“Casual dockside seafood stop accessible by boat, with occasional live music.”

“Relaxed eatery offers staples from Northern & Southern Italy plus small plates & hand-tossed pizza.”

“Locals know Mermaids Island Grill keeps weeknights easy with fast-casual ordering at the table, bright coastal flavors with a Greek lean, and fresh, made-from-scratch plates built on real butter, olive oil, and local seafood.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.”

“Biscuitville keeps it local with scratch-made biscuits from locally sourced flour, farm-fresh fixings and seasonal picks like the Double Bacon BLT with Duke’s Mayo and thick-cut bacon.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Upbeat take-out window with outdoor tables, serving up classic tacos with Hawaiian influences.”

“Bagel eatery also offering sandwiches and pastries, along with New York bagels.”

“Steakhouse featuring steaks, lobster and surf-n-turf dinners, beers and cocktails.”

“Plush venue offering sleek suites, some with kitchens, plus pools, golf courses & breakfast.”

“Craving something that actually hits the spot this week? Mo's Wood Fired Kitchen turns out famous wood-fired pizzas, juicy wood-roasted chicken, glazed baby back ribs, and stacked burgers, plus standouts like grilled mahi-mahi with mango salsa, all pairing nicely with a cold craft beer or a glass of wine.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Convenience store-based pizza chain doling out create-your-own pies along with wings.”

“Sports bar and restaurant serving creative eats, featuring craft beer, wine and cocktails.”

“Down-to-earth spot for American fare from burgers, homemade soups & sandwiches, to ribs & seafood.”

“Casual pizzeria, known for its pizza and stromboli pizzas, sandwiches and salads.”

“Casual eatery specializing in pizza, pasta and other classic Italian dishes (including seafood and chicken).”

“Straightforward spot for Southern breakfasts plus barbecue plates & sandwiches the rest of the day.”

“Traditional Italian selections & American steakhouse fare served in a comfortable dining room.”

“Koko Cabana does the island classics right: crispy fried fish, juicy burgers, and tacos and nachos you pretend are 'light' because the view is doing heavy lifting. When you want casual, quick, and reliably good on Oak Island, this is the spot locals keep in their back pocket.”

“Pepe's Pizza keeps Supply fed with legit specialty pies like the Meat Man, The Greek, and Farmers Market, plus jumbo wings, garlic knots, and real-deal steak and cheese subs. Feeling coastal, not carby? Their Big Kahuna seafood platter brings flounder, shrimp, oysters and friends to the party.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 23, 2026

“A family-friendly seafood hub that also serves pizzas & pastas, with a deck overlooking an inlet.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Fast-food chain serving chicken sandwiches & nuggets along with salads & sides.”

“Overlooking the Intracoastal at South Harbour Village, Joseph's Italian Bistro pairs comforting pastas and hearty Italian classics with a legit wine and spirits list and those ridiculous sunset views locals quietly brag about.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 5, 2026

“When you need real deal barbecue without firing up the backyard, The Pit Backyard BBQ in Leland delivers juicy brisket, smoky wings, and those brisket burnt ends locals keep talking about, plus a lineup of sauces. They’ll even handle your next get-together or cater the whole thing, so you just focus on the fun.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 18, 2026

“What the Grill LLC turns patios into legit cook spaces, from custom outdoor kitchens with top brands to propane, charcoal, pellet, or kamado setups plus griddles and all the gadgets. Swing by their tasting bar to sample North Carolina rubs and sauces, then plot your next legendary cookout.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Al's Burger Shack hand-patties 100% Black Angus burgers to your preferred temp, piles on made-in-shack sauces and toppings, and serves them with crispy fries, sweet potato fries, or tots.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Brodee Dogs Brew House is your midweek hero with hot dogs, chicken wings, and burgers from beef to turkey to black bean, plus build-your-own options loaded with all the fixins. When cooking sounds impossible, let them stack it your way and add a side you pretend you won’t finish.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Chain outlet specializing in many different types of chicken salads, plus sandwiches, soups & sides.”

“Craving a no-fuss morning feast this week that rolls into lunch? Farmhouse Kitchen, right here in Leland, serves breakfast all day with cage-free egg sandwiches and wraps, plus legit burgers like the Farmhouse Burger topped with bacon, cheddar, and an egg your way. Easy comfort, made by folks who get it.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 22, 2026

“'s Olde Fashioned Grille the easy weeknight call. Add hand-squeezed lemonade, solid sandwiches and salads, plus a food truck that brings the goods to your block, and you’ve got peak local comfort this week.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Chingon Taqueria is slinging the best damn birria in town alongside tacos, burritos, huaraches, sopes and quesadillas that punch way above average. They even import serrano peppers from Mexico for that real-deal aguachile, so consider this your permission slip to spice up dinner this week.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 29, 2026

“Full-service chain bar & grill providing hearty American eats in an informal setting.”

“Miyabi Jr Express turns weeknight hunger into happy plates with fast, flavorful teriyaki and hibachi, plus a legit sushi bar when you want rolls without the fuss. Perfect for when you need something hot, fresh, and satisfyingly saucy before the next practice or binge watch.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Fast-food eatery specializing in Cajun-style fried chicken, plus wings, seafood, breakfast & more.”

“Local's Tavern is Leland’s go-to watering hole for cold beer, solid cocktails, and a craveable menu of burgers, seafood baskets, tacos, and hand-cut steaks. Expect live entertainment through the week and an easy spot to corral the crew for casual hangs or a no-stress celebration.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Wheelz Pizza of Leland is your move when you want pizza that actually tastes like someone cared. Their acclaimed sourdough crust, organic ingredients without weird additives, and a tight menu featuring pies, a premium turkey club, breadsticks, and chocolate chip cookies make dinner this week an easy win.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 13, 2026

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“Retro-themed chain with a 1950s soda-fountain look, dishing out familiar fast-food selections.”

“Need an easy dinner this week? Six Happiness is a casual local go-to for fresh sushi, hibachi favorites and other Asian comfort picks, with a friendly vibe and quick online ordering that actually works, so you can keep dinner simple without sacrificing flavor.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Whether you’re chasing Szechuan heat or keeping it mild and sweet, Wok And Roll in Leland turns out fresh, crowd-pleasing Chinese classics like Sesame Chicken and Szechuan Beef, with clearly labeled vegetarian options. Perfect for a quick weeknight pickup or a cozy, no fuss family dinner.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Family-friendly hub for steamed & raw shellfish, wings & beers served in a no-frills setting.”

“When dinner needs to handle itself, Southport Smoke House does the heavy lifting with real wood-smoked brisket, pulled pork, ribs and chicken, plus sides like mac and cheese, collards, hushpuppies and banana pudding. Hit it with Eastern or Lexington sauce, grab a plate or a family pack, and call it a win this week.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Pizza take-out & delivery chain offering classic & specialty pizzas, plus wings, sides & desserts.”

“Counter-serve chain serving fried chicken & Eastern North Carolina-style BBQ in vinegar-based sauce.”

“Gondolfo's Pizza is slinging hand-tossed, classic New York pies with those big, perfectly foldable slices. Make it a this-week treat with a Sicilian square, arancini, or penne alla vodka, then finish with a cannoli... or zeppoles if you believe in dessert plural.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 20, 2026

“When you’re ready to upgrade your weeknight routine, Papis Chicken is turning out Peruvian-style pollo a la brasa on a charcoal rotisserie, juicy with crisp skin and zero fuss, plus sides like fried rice and sweet plantains that make leftovers a fantasy instead of a chore.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Skip the sad frozen lasagna and let Pizzettas handle dinner with made-to-order Italian that tastes like Nonna signed off on it. Think hand-tossed pies, Lobster Ravioli, Eggplant Parmigiana, and rotating specials like homemade Cannelloni, plus surprise desserts made daily that always seem to vanish too fast.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Relaxed chain serving a menu of breakfast, burgers & sandwiches in a colorful setting.”

“Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.”

“When you need reliable, flavor-packed Chinese without overthinking it, Yummi Yummi nails the classics like General Tso’s, Sesame Chicken, Kung Pao Shrimp, and Mongolian Beef with generous portions and consistent taste, plus quick takeout and delivery around Leland and Wilmington. Consider this your midweek hero.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.”

“When you want breakfast that tastes like home, Gaylyn's Diner in Leland keeps it classic with fluffy omelets, corned beef hash, pancakes, and egg plates with grits or home fries. Come back at lunch for burgers and dogs loaded your way, plus crispy fries and onion rings to seal the deal.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 21, 2026

“When your Wednesday needs a lift, Indochine Express comes through with slurpable pho, bright Pad Thai, and coconut curry noodles, plus tofu-friendly picks and a legit banh mi. Finish with mango sticky rice and call it self-care you can eat.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 29, 2026