Best Southwest American Restaurants in Wilmington

18 restaurants available nearby

1. Seabird

4.8

Exceptional(1480)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 21 times today

Seabird in Wilmington stands out as a beacon for vegetarian and vegan cuisine, thanks to the innovative vision of James Beard-nominated Chef Dean Neff. The restaurant is celebrated for its "mindfully sourced and thoughtfully prepared" ingredients, ensuring that every dish showcases the freshness and flavors of the coastal community. Diners rave about the vegetarian options, calling the carrot salad "crunchy and refreshing" and the offerings "creative" and "exceptional." What makes Seabird a must-visit is its ability to transform simple ingredients into spectacular, flavor-packed dishes that delight even the most discerning palates. Whether it's the "amazing chefs, staff, food, and atmosphere" or the "spectacular" vegetarian dishes, Seabird promises a culinary experience that is both authentic and memorable.

A photo of Ruth's Chris Steak House - Wilmington, NC restaurant

2. Ruth's Chris Steak House - Wilmington, NC

4.7

Exceptional(2397)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 35 times today

Ruth's Chris Steak House in Wilmington, located at the picturesque River Place in historic Downtown, is a beacon for steak lovers. Renowned for its exceptional Steakhouse cuisine, guests rave about their experiences, stating the "filet with lobster tail is fabulous!" and the "steaks were mouthwatering and cooked to perfection." This steakhouse not only offers a warm, comfortable atmosphere but also excels in delivering top-notch service with reviews praising the attentive and professional staff. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a delightful dinner, Ruth's Chris consistently delivers a stellar dining experience, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors seeking the best steaks in Wilmington.

A photo of The George on the Riverwalk restaurant

3. The George on the Riverwalk

4.7

Exceptional(674)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 13 times today

Nestled in the scenic downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, The George on the Riverwalk epitomizes authentic American cuisine with a unique twist. This beloved eatery offers an array of dishes that receive rave reviews for their flavor and presentation. Highlights include the "outstanding" goat cheese chicken, perfectly grilled filets, and a variety of seafood offerings like blackened fish and oysters Rockefeller, described as "both unusual but also very tasty." Guests frequently praise the "excellent service" and the picturesque river views, making it a prime location for both locals and visitors. The combination of high-quality American fare, a welcoming atmosphere for dogs, and the stunning riverside setting ensures a memorable dining experience that resonates with authenticity and culinary excellence.

4. PinPoint

4.8

Exceptional(1808)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 13 times today

At PinPoint Restaurant in Wilmington, NC, the seafood cuisine is not just food; it's a celebration of Southern coastal tradition and freshness. Recognized in Southern Living's Best Restaurants of 2019, PinPoint has carved a niche for itself with its daily-changing menu that highlights the best local offerings. Sourced directly from Wilmington’s top fishermen and oystermen, the seafood here is unparalleled. Guests rave about the "beyond fantastic grouper entrée" and the "delicious and fresh oysters," which are a testament to the restaurant's commitment to quality. One diner enthused, "The grouper was phenomenal... I almost forgot about the grouper for a few minutes," emphasizing the memorable impact of their meal. At PinPoint, every dish promises an authentic, flavorful journey through the heart of Wilmington's seafood excellence.

A photo of True Blue Butcher & Table - The Forum restaurant

5. True Blue Butcher & Table - The Forum

new

4.5

Awesome(946)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Wrightsville Beach

Booked 9 times today

True Blue Butcher & Table in Wilmington's upscale Forum area stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine. Chef Bobby Zimmerman masterfully showcases a menu where locally sourced ingredients take center stage, creating dishes that resonate deeply with diners seeking authenticity and quality. Reviewers rave about the "top tier" food and service, with special mentions of the "amazing" brunch and "perfectly cooked" steaks. The restaurant not only serves exceptional meals but also enhances dining experiences with live music and thoughtful touches, like offering a blanket to a chilled guest. One diner encapsulated the widespread sentiment by praising, "Literally everything is always perfect!" This spot is a must-visit for anyone serious about exploring the finest in modern American dining.

A photo of Butcher and Barrel by True Blue restaurant

6. Butcher and Barrel by True Blue

new

4.6

Exceptional(514)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 4 times today

Butcher and Barrel by True Blue in Wilmington, NC, isn't just celebrated for its prime cuts; it stands out as a vibrant cocktail bar with an extensive selection of bourbon and whiskey that delights connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Patrons rave about the "amazing banana old fashioned" and appreciate the knowledgeable staff who make recommendations that perfectly match their tastes. The bar's ambiance, enhanced by funky wallpaper and local art, creates a lively atmosphere ideal for enjoying well-crafted cocktails. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Butcher and Barrel promises an unforgettable cocktail experience where every sip is a celebration of quality and creativity.

A photo of Steam Restaurant - Embassy Suites restaurant

7. Steam Restaurant - Embassy Suites

4.4

Awesome(637)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 7 times today

Steam Restaurant, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Cape Fear River in Wilmington, is a haven for grill cuisine enthusiasts. Known for its commitment to freshness and locally sourced ingredients, Steam offers a grill menu that consistently receives high praise. Diners rave about the "delicious" and "top notch" grilled dishes, from the succulent 16oz steak complemented by smashed potatoes and greens to the perfectly grilled Mahi Mahi. The ambiance, coupled with stunning river views, enhances the dining experience, making every meal feel special. Whether it's the "best steak ever" or the "amazing" grilled seafood, Steam ensures a memorable culinary journey with every bite.

A photo of Dram Yard at ARRIVE restaurant

8. Dram Yard at ARRIVE

4.5

Awesome(85)

Price: Expensive

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 9 times today

Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Dram Yard offers dinners featuring Southern coastal flavors with a global twist. Join us for craft cocktails, carefully curated wine and beer offerings, and thoughtful preparations of locally sourced ingredients in our re-opened dining room.

9. G Prime

4.7

Exceptional(213)

Price: Very Expensive

• Mexican • Wrightsville Beach

Booked 20 times today

G Prime in Wrightsville Beach, Wilmington, superbly captures the essence of American cuisine with its emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and prime cuts. Diners consistently praise its "incredible wine list" and the "best steak house in NC" quality, emphasizing the authentic and high-standard culinary experience. The restaurant's atmosphere and service are repeatedly highlighted, with remarks like "our first visit to G Prime won’t be our last!!!" underscoring the satisfaction of its patrons. Whether it's the fresh fish, seasonal produce, or the expertly crafted cocktails, G Prime stands out as a beacon of fine American dining, making every meal not just a dish but a celebration of local flavor and top-tier hospitality.

A photo of Tequilas Waterfront restaurant

10. Tequilas Waterfront

3.9

Excellent(118)

Price: Moderate

• Mexican • Wilmington

Booked 5 times today

Tequila's Waterfront in Wilmington is a gem for those seeking authentic and high-quality Traditional Mexican cuisine. Established in 2018 by the talented Chef Ramon Villasenor, this spot has quickly become a local favorite. Nestled beside the scenic Riverfront Park, it not only offers stunning views but also a vibrant culinary experience. Patrons rave about the "fantastic" Shrimp fajita quesadilla and the "phenomenal" Quesa Birria, highlighting the freshness and authenticity of the ingredients. The atmosphere is consistently praised, with reviews noting the "wonderful staff" and "fun atmosphere." It's the perfect place to enjoy "the best Mexican food in Wilmington" and experience a delightful blend of culture, flavor, and scenery.

‘About the restaurant’ descriptions have been generated using an artificial intelligence model comprised of OpenTable proprietary data that has not been independently verified by OpenTable. The content is presented as-is, for informational purposes only.

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Best Southwest American Restaurants in Wilmington

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18 restaurants available nearby

1. Seabird

2. Ruth's Chris Steak House - Wilmington, NC

3. The George on the Riverwalk

4. PinPoint

5. True Blue Butcher & Table - The Forum

6. Butcher and Barrel by True Blue

7. Steam Restaurant - Embassy Suites

8. Dram Yard at ARRIVE

9. G Prime

10. Tequilas Waterfront

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