The best restaurants in New Bern

34 restaurants we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Restaurants · 34 places · showing the latest additions first

Moore's Olde Tyme Barbeque Chicken & Seafood keeps it classic with barbecue, juicy chicken, and locally caught hand breaded shrimp, plus…

3621 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd

Moore's Olde Tyme Barbeque Chicken & Seafood keeps it classic with barbecue, juicy chicken, and locally caught hand breaded shrimp, plus ribs that won Best BBQ and Best Ribs in New Bern. When dinner needs to taste like home, this is the move.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 12, 2026

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When you need a low-key upgrade to your week, Persimmons | Waterfront Restaurant nails that upscale but casual New American vibe with big…

100 Pollock St

When you need a low-key upgrade to your week, Persimmons | Waterfront Restaurant nails that upscale but casual New American vibe with big waterfront views from the deck. Grab a seat, let the breeze do its thing, and remember why living in New Bern is pretty great.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 3, 2026

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Panichelli's Pizzeria keeps New Bern fed with classic pies, stromboli, calzones, pastas, subs, salads, and desserts, plus a kids menu for…

40 Shoreline Dr

Panichelli's Pizzeria keeps New Bern fed with classic pies, stromboli, calzones, pastas, subs, salads, and desserts, plus a kids menu for the picky crew. Need crowd fuel this week? Party platters and catering make game night, work lunches, or lazy evenings at home deliciously low effort.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 17, 2026

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Thai Angel

Restaurants

Thai Angel is that cozy, family-run spot downtown where the Duck Panang Curry hits all the warm and spicy notes, the Soft Shell Crab &…

247 Craven St

Thai Angel is that cozy, family-run spot downtown where the Duck Panang Curry hits all the warm and spicy notes, the Soft Shell Crab & Shrimp Curry is a flex, and the Sweet Angel mango sauce situation is pure weeknight happiness.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 14, 2026

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When the fridge looks judgmental, East Cuisine Asian Restaurant comes through with hibachi, sushi, poke bowl, and more that hit the spot…

3529 Dr ML King Jr Blvd

When the fridge looks judgmental, East Cuisine Asian Restaurant comes through with hibachi, sushi, poke bowl, and more that hit the spot without fuss. A reliable New Bern standby for quick takeout when you want good flavor, fast.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 31, 2026

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Sake Hibachi Sushi & Bar nails the New Bern trifecta of hibachi theatrics, fresh sushi, and a legit seafood boil with three spice levels…

400 Hotel Dr

Sake Hibachi Sushi & Bar nails the New Bern trifecta of hibachi theatrics, fresh sushi, and a legit seafood boil with three spice levels and four flavors. Great for birthday squads or low-key takeout nights, with tempura, teriyaki, and rolls that hit the spot.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 1, 2026

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Annabelle's

Restaurants

Annabelle's is that dependable local spot when you want actual flavor not fuss. Hot crab dip with garlic bread, 28-day aged hand-cut Black…

3100 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd

Annabelle's is that dependable local spot when you want actual flavor not fuss. Hot crab dip with garlic bread, 28-day aged hand-cut Black Angus steaks, fall-apart baby back ribs, sizzlin' fajitas, and a Fiesta Salmon with avocado salad and zesty remoulade make it an easy yes this week.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 26, 2026

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Family-run and proudly informal, La Casetta leans on decades of passed-down recipes for homemade pastas, rich sauces, and pizza, paired…

2503 Neuse Blvd

Family-run and proudly informal, La Casetta leans on decades of passed-down recipes for homemade pastas, rich sauces, and pizza, paired with a glass of wine that just makes sense. Keep them in your back pocket for easy weeknights or call on their catering when the whole crew shows up.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 31, 2026

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Kuma Sushi Bar

Restaurants

Kuma Sushi Bar keeps New Bern sushi nights on point with fresh nigiri, creative specialty rolls, and legit tempura crunch. Not feeling…

303 Pollock St

Kuma Sushi Bar keeps New Bern sushi nights on point with fresh nigiri, creative specialty rolls, and legit tempura crunch. Not feeling rolls this week? Poke bowls, ramen, and steamy dumplings have your back, all put together with the kind of care that makes Tuesday feel like a treat.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Savage's Wood Burning Pizzeria turns out New York style pies from a genuine brick oven fired with oak and hickory, so the crust gets that…

303 Metcalf St

Savage's Wood Burning Pizzeria turns out New York style pies from a genuine brick oven fired with oak and hickory, so the crust gets that perfect kiss of smoke. Keep it classic or go specialty, then add garlic knots, wings, or a fresh antipasto to round it out.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 31, 2026

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Beartown Bistro & Pizza Company keeps New Bern happily fed with eclectic comfort grub, from sweet tea smoked wings and buffalo bacon…

1200 US-70

Beartown Bistro & Pizza Company keeps New Bern happily fed with eclectic comfort grub, from sweet tea smoked wings and buffalo bacon chicken mac to pizzas like The Big Cajun, plus a solid beer pour. Intimate neighborhood vibes make it an easy win for low-key weeknights or lingering catch ups.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 1, 2026

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Bear City BBQ

Restaurants

Bear City BBQ is turning out legit, slow-smoked whole hog, brisket, and chicken with that passed-down pitmaster touch, plus house-made…

1020 Broad St

Bear City BBQ is turning out legit, slow-smoked whole hog, brisket, and chicken with that passed-down pitmaster touch, plus house-made collards, mac, beans, and potato salad. Perfect for an easy takeout night or calling in catering when the crew's hungry and picky.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 20, 2026

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The Chelsea

Restaurants

Whether you’re craving a proper steak night or a laid-back brunch this week, The Chelsea does comfortable fine dining in historic downtown…

335 Middle St

Whether you’re craving a proper steak night or a laid-back brunch this week, The Chelsea does comfortable fine dining in historic downtown New Bern with hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, seasonal plates, and an exceptional wine list in a space that feels special but never stuffy. Local since 1991, zero fuss.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 10, 2026

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Roots Asian Restaurant keeps New Bern fed with serious pan-Asian comfort, from dry pho noodles and pad thai to basil stir-fry and Hainanese…

1503 S Glenburnie Rd Suit A and B

Roots Asian Restaurant keeps New Bern fed with serious pan-Asian comfort, from dry pho noodles and pad thai to basil stir-fry and Hainanese chicken. When you need a break from the usual, grab Thai tea, mango sticky rice, and call it self-care with chopsticks.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Spunky McDoogle's has been serving Great Food & Spirits since 1921, with hearty plates, a pour that hits right, and rotating favorites like…

1908 S Glenburnie Rd

Spunky McDoogle's has been serving Great Food & Spirits since 1921, with hearty plates, a pour that hits right, and rotating favorites like weekend prime rib and corned beef and cabbage on the 17th each month. File this under easy weeknight win or low key catchup spot with friends.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 17, 2026

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

2507 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd

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

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Ginza Japan is the reliable move for a low-key night, with fresh sushi, hibachi plates, crisp tempura and satisfying katsu, plus bento…

3025 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd

Ginza Japan is the reliable move for a low-key night, with fresh sushi, hibachi plates, crisp tempura and satisfying katsu, plus bento boxes and house rolls that actually earn repeat orders. Put it on your dinner rotation this week and thank us later.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

3102 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd Suite 624 Suite #624

Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

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Seafood, meat & a kids' menu in a laid-back hangout with local artwork, coastal accents & a bar.

216 Middle St

Seafood, meat & a kids' menu in a laid-back hangout with local artwork, coastal accents & a bar.

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Wingstop

Restaurants

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

3511 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

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Thirty Seventh Street Pizzaria is the kind of old-school spot that settles the dinner debate with crispy pies, saucy pastas and zero fuss.…

2402 Neuse Blvd

Thirty Seventh Street Pizzaria is the kind of old-school spot that settles the dinner debate with crispy pies, saucy pastas and zero fuss. When you need comfort that tastes like home, this is the reliable move your group chat can actually agree on.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 29, 2026

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Whether you’re into boutique pours or plates that taste like someone cooked with love, Cork Wine Bar & Bistro is your move this week for…

319 Bern St

Whether you’re into boutique pours or plates that taste like someone cooked with love, Cork Wine Bar & Bistro is your move this week for the Italian/American sweet spot with seasonal small plates, homemade dishes and smart wine pairings.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 27, 2026

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Paula's Italian Restaurant is that family friendly, no-stress spot when you crave real-deal pizza, hearty pastas, and a kids' menu that…

3946 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd

Paula's Italian Restaurant is that family friendly, no-stress spot when you crave real-deal pizza, hearty pastas, and a kids' menu that saves the evening.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 1, 2026

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Relaxed pub featuring Jamaican eats alongside burgers, tacos and seafood dishes.

208 Pollock St

Relaxed pub featuring Jamaican eats alongside burgers, tacos and seafood dishes.

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Whether you want the sizzle of teppanyaki right at your table or a quiet sushi fix, Musashi Japanese Steak brings the show and the flavor.…

2041 S Glenburnie Rd

Whether you want the sizzle of teppanyaki right at your table or a quiet sushi fix, Musashi Japanese Steak brings the show and the flavor. Grab a seat in New Bern this week for hibachi, sushi, and teriyaki from highly trained chefs, plus a full bar that fits weeknight energy or low-key dates.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 13, 2026

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Cypress Hall

Restaurants

Led by Chef Ashley Moser, Cypress Hall turns Eastern NC ingredients into an ever-rotating menu that makes weeknights feel special, with a…

219 Middle St

Led by Chef Ashley Moser, Cypress Hall turns Eastern NC ingredients into an ever-rotating menu that makes weeknights feel special, with a full bar for legit cocktails and a brunch lineup that keeps changing... in a good way. Expect thoughtful plates, vegetarian options, and an open kitchen vibe locals love.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 7, 2026

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Firefly Cafe

Restaurants

Firefly Cafe turns fresh comfort food into a weekly ritual, with small-town hospitality, a plant-filled dining room, and a garden where…

901b Pollock St

Firefly Cafe turns fresh comfort food into a weekly ritual, with small-town hospitality, a plant-filled dining room, and a garden where brunch lingers into craft beers, good wine, and games. Live music, classes, and Sip & Savor experiences keep the calendar stacked, so pencil it in this week.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 23, 2026

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Big Lou's Kitchen turns out stick-to-your-ribs plates locals love, from shrimp burgers and turkey chops to crispy fried chicken with mac…

1003 Main St · ✓ checked Sep 15

Big Lou's Kitchen turns out stick-to-your-ribs plates locals love, from shrimp burgers and turkey chops to crispy fried chicken with mac and cheese, yams, and green beans. And yes, save room... strawberry crunch cake or a slice of sweet potato pie will finish the job.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 21, 2026

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Sara's

Restaurants

From crispy pizzas to saucy pastas, hearty burgers and wings, Sara's nails the no-fuss, tastes-like-home vibe locals actually want. A broad…

1150 Broad Creek Rd

From crispy pizzas to saucy pastas, hearty burgers and wings, Sara's nails the no-fuss, tastes-like-home vibe locals actually want. A broad menu, weekly specials, and easy online ordering make dinner decisions blissfully low drama, whether you’re feeding the crew or just yourself.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 2, 2026

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From crispy churros and churro boats piled with Cookie Dough or Strawberry Short Cake to savory empanadas and legit street corn, All About…

1000 Broad St

From crispy churros and churro boats piled with Cookie Dough or Strawberry Short Cake to savory empanadas and legit street corn, All About Churros is the kind of New Bern food truck that turns errands into treat runs. Grab a horchata or hibiscus water and call it a win.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 30, 2026

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Gemelli Italian Deli & Bagelry is family-owned and blends hand-crafted bagels with classic Italian deli favorites, all made with quality…

211 Pollock St

Gemelli Italian Deli & Bagelry is family-owned and blends hand-crafted bagels with classic Italian deli favorites, all made with quality ingredients. It’s New York meets Italy in one stop, ideal for the week when your carb cravings need dual citizenship and you just want something reliably tasty, no judgment.

From the New Bern newsletter, August 24, 2026

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Baxter's 1892

Restaurants

Think tapas worth sharing, cocktails built by true liquid libationists, and live music that actually fits the room. Baxter's 1892 leans…

323 Pollock St

Think tapas worth sharing, cocktails built by true liquid libationists, and live music that actually fits the room. Baxter's 1892 leans into its historic Baxter Building roots with a classy, jazz-club feel where grabbing a bar seat to watch the mixologists work is half the fun.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 2, 2026

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

3200 Dr. M.L.K. Jr Blvd

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

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Mario's Pizza does New York-style pies the way you want them, plus hearty Italian comfort like tortellini alla panna, cavatelli with fresh…

1917 S Glenburnie Rd

Mario's Pizza does New York-style pies the way you want them, plus hearty Italian comfort like tortellini alla panna, cavatelli with fresh ricotta, and a seafood risotto that eats like a celebration. Easy takeout or delivery when you need dinner solved without a committee meeting.

From the New Bern newsletter, September 2, 2026

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