10 Romantic Date Night Restaurants in Wilmington, NC: Your Guide to Unforgettable Evenings

As the sun sets over the Cape Fear River, Wilmington, North Carolina transforms into a romantic haven for couples seeking an unforgettable dining experience. With its charming historic district and vibrant culinary scene, this coastal gem offers a plethora of options for those looking to ignite the spark or keep the flame burning bright. Whether you’re planning a special Valentine’s Day outing or simply want to treat your loved one to a memorable evening, I’ve curated a list of the 10 most romantic date night restaurants in Wilmington, NC that are sure to set the stage for love.

Top Romantic Restaurants for Date Night in Wilmington, NC

1. Manna

Nestled in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Manna is the epitome of upscale dining with a creative twist. As you step into this elegant establishment, you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of sophisticated intimacy. The restaurant’s ever-changing menu is a testament to the chef’s commitment to innovation and locally-sourced ingredients.

At Manna, each dish is a work of art, meticulously crafted to tantalize your taste buds and spark conversation. Their cocktail program is equally impressive, with mixologists concocting unique libations that perfectly complement the culinary offerings. For a truly special evening, I recommend trying their tasting menu, which allows you to sample a variety of the chef’s most inspired creations.

Manna
Address: 123 Princess Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 763-5252
Website: https://mannaavenue.com/

Google Reviews

Jeff Grimm 5/5

“We had a fantastic experience last night at Manna to celebrate my wife’s birthday. Of all the items we had, the wild mushroom toast (sounds weird, but was a savory spectacle) was the best. At the end of the meal, they gave us some house made basil-cello (pictured) as a celebratory treat. Highly recommend.”

Amanda Aquilone 5/5

“Such a great experience! The staff was very friendly and accommodating. We really appreciated the cocktail recommendations from the bartender. The food was delightful and presented well.”

Sharon Frecking 5/5

“What an amazing food experience! Highly recommend. Started with the oysters….amazing! Decided to stay with small plates and had the best spaghetti of my life. Simple….but absolutely the most delicious meal I’ve had in my life. Service was wonderful as well!”

2. Caprice Bistro

For those seeking a taste of France in the heart of Wilmington, Caprice Bistro is an absolute must-visit. This charming restaurant exudes Parisian romance with its intimate setting and authentic French cuisine. The cozy downstairs dining room is perfect for a casual date night, but for an extra touch of romance, I suggest requesting a table upstairs by the window.

Chef Thierry Moity’s menu is a love letter to traditional French cooking, featuring classics like escargots, coq au vin, and crème brûlée. The wine list is expertly curated, offering a selection that pairs beautifully with each dish. Don’t miss their signature waterzooi, a creamy seafood stew that’s perfect for sharing.

Caprice Bistro
Address: 10 Market Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 815-0810
Website: https://www.capricebistro.com/

Google Reviews

cornsnaketamer 5/5

“Beautiful place to dine… Family dinner here in late afternoon was so very nice… Food was so tasty we enjoyed every dish that was ordered… Also ordered dessert after each of the entrées were relished…”

Rick Hadsall 5/5

“French/Belgian bistro serving up the expected (steak frites, beef bourgignon, etc) and the unexpected (the Belgian classic Waterzooi). Food is excellent and the cocktails are quite good!”

Jacob Sargent 5/5

“The beef bourguignon and waterzooi were fantastic. The carrot soup was a delicious surprise. The triplet dessert was the best way to finish. But what truly made this experience magical was the service from Meakin! She made us feel at home and we had such a great time.”

3. Seabird

While Seabird is renowned for its seafood, it’s also a haven for non-seafood lovers looking for an exceptional dining experience. The restaurant’s sleek, modern interior creates an atmosphere of understated elegance, making it ideal for a sophisticated date night.

Chef Dean Neff’s menu showcases the best of local and seasonal ingredients, with dishes that are both innovative and comforting. The vegetable-focused plates are just as impressive as their seafood counterparts, ensuring there’s something for every palate. For a truly romantic touch, end your meal with their decadent chocolate tart, perfect for sharing.

Seabird
Address: 1 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 769-5996
Website: https://seabirdnc.com/

Google Reviews

Arus Aramyan 5/5

“Seabird has food and service of a high-end restaurant with a beautiful vintage look and feel. They made us amazing vegan salads and entrees. One of the entrees was off menu too. The desserts were delicious as well. The chef is an artist, the servers are very friendly and knowledgeable.”

Matthew Morales 5/5

“5 stars!! Absolutely amazing dining experience. Enjoyed a delicious meal at the chefs counter. Had the luxury to meet and speak with Dean Neff, the restaurants James Beard affiliated Chef who went above and beyond to make sure we experienced all that Seabird has to offer. The cuisine and dishes were spectacular in all aspects. (My favorite were the Oysters, Ribs, & Catfish & Oyster Pie). Sean, our server was awesome- so attentive and made sure all our needs were met. This restaurant is now a staple in our book and we will be returning each and every time we make a trip down to Wilmington!”

GrAcIE WoNg 4/5

“Beautiful decor, delightful vibe and great service! My friend brought me here for dinner during my visit to Wilmington and we had a really nice meal. The food was delicious although I found my seafood dish a bit too salty. Overall an enjoyable meal and I recommend it.”

4. Pinpoint

Pinpoint has earned its reputation as one of Wilmington’s most consistently excellent restaurants, and it’s easy to see why. The warm, inviting atmosphere is enhanced by exposed brick walls and soft lighting, creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening.

What sets Pinpoint apart is its commitment to locally-sourced ingredients and Southern-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Their menu changes regularly to reflect the seasons, but you can always count on expertly prepared dishes that showcase the best of North Carolina’s bounty. Their wine list is equally impressive, featuring a carefully curated selection that complements the food perfectly.

Pinpoint
Address: 114 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 769-2972
Website: https://pinpointrestaurant.com/

Google Reviews

claudia sanders 5/5

“After researching menus in downtown Wilmington, the Pinpoint won our reservation due to the dedication to local, seasonal sourcing. From the warm greeting we received at entry to the professionalism of Ryan and the supporting servers the service and atmosphere was top notch. … I can’t wait to visit again and see what the chef creates with the best seasonal local ingredients available in the area!”

Em 5/5

“I have been here twice and had a wonderful experience both times!! Thanks to Devin and Ryan for being such attentive and knowledgeable servers. The FOH and kitchen staff obviously work hard to make this restaurant one of the best, if not the best in the city. 🍷🥘✨”

Tiger 5/5

“Everything was very delicious, great service, Dylan. The shrimp and grits were our favorite.”

Unique Date Night Experiences

5. The Little Dipper

For a truly interactive and memorable date night, The Little Dipper offers a fondue experience that’s both fun and intimate. This unique dining concept is perfect for couples who enjoy taking their time over a meal and engaging in conversation.

The four-course dining experience typically includes cheese fondue, salad, entrée fondue, and chocolate fondue for dessert. Each course is designed to be shared, encouraging a sense of intimacy and connection. The cozy booths and dim lighting add to the romantic atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely date night that can easily stretch to two or three hours.

The Little Dipper
Address: 138 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 251-0433
Website: https://littledipperfondue.com/

Google Reviews

Emma 5/5

“I had such an amazing experience! Making a reservation for 2 was a quick and easy process. Wait times were short and the food was delicious! … The atmosphere was amazing. We had such a great time and are already planning to return!”

William Britt 5/5

“One of my favorite places to eat. The food is outstanding and the staff member are so friendly. Our waitress KK was outstanding. I would tell you our favorite table, but I won’t. Even our Au Poivre sauce had a smile.

Valerie Treadway 5/5

“My friends and I had a wonderful time last night at The Little Dipper. The food was AMAZING especially the She Crab Soup! We got three pots of different cheeses, the soup, and three pots of different chocolates all with an assortment of delicious dipping items. Even our picky eaters were so full when we left! We will definitely be back.”

6. Dram Yard

Dram Yard, located in the ARRIVE Hotel, is a hidden gem that offers an exceptional dining experience perfect for a special date night. The restaurant’s stylish interior, with its modern decor and warm lighting, sets the stage for an evening of culinary delight.

What truly sets Dram Yard apart is its innovative menu and impressive bar program. The dishes are a creative fusion of flavors, often drawing inspiration from global cuisines while showcasing local ingredients. Their cocktail menu is equally impressive, featuring both classic concoctions and unique creations that are sure to impress even the most discerning cocktail enthusiasts.

Dram Yard
Address: 101 S 2nd St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 782-2400
Website: https://www.dramyard.com/

Google Reviews

Mindy Gallina 5/5

“From the moment someone else’s trout dip landed on our table to the end of our evening, we thoroughly enjoyed the whole Dram Yard experience. … All in all, our best dining experience yet in Wilmington and is definitely worth a do-over. We give this a 5-star and a promise to be back soon. Thank you Dram Yard! And thank you Amanda!”

Hannah Moore 5/5

“Amanda E made our night. Coming from a serving background and having been to many restaurants all over, she was hands down the best server I’ve ever had. … Also the hostess gave me the market fish recommendation and it did not disappoint so thank you to the very kind petite hostess for the recommendation! We will absolutely be back. Food and drinks were excellent, highly recommend.”

Noble Hwang 3/5

“Cool vibes, great service, but the food was HARD mid. Got three small plates, one of them was the spicy noodles. Came out and it tasted and looked (see below) like it was that gross bunch of noodles that bunches together at the bottom of the pot. Was not great.”

Waterfront Dining Options for Romantic Evenings

7. Floriana Wilmington

For couples seeking a romantic dinner with a view, Floriana offers an unparalleled experience. Situated on Wilmington’s scenic Riverwalk, this Italian restaurant boasts stunning views of the Cape Fear River, especially from its coveted balcony seating.

The menu at Floriana is a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine, featuring homemade pasta, fresh seafood, and classic dishes prepared with a modern touch. While their indoor dining room is lovely, I highly recommend requesting a balcony table for the ultimate romantic experience. Keep in mind that these tables are in high demand and operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is advisable.

Floriana
Address: 2 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 504-0160
Website: https://florianarestaurant.com/

Google Reviews

Tyler Jordan 5/5

“Took my wife here for her birthday dinner outing and it was a very nice evening vibe outside on the balcony seating. We reserved for a specific time and showed up 20 minutes early and were able to get seated immediately up at the balconies. The view with dinner is incredible. The food was very good, the service was very good, not a whole lot more you can ask for. Solid night at the Floriana.”

Mark Harris 5/5

“We went here for our anniversary. Made a reservation for a balcony table. The view was nice and the privacy of the personal balcony was great. We ordered the calamari for our appetizer. … Really no complaints. I would definitely recommend this place for any special occasion.”

Cody Beasley 5/5

“My experience here was good. It was a very beautiful building. Historic and well kept. … I will say the portions were small but what we got was amazing and delicious. This place is a go to for the date night with the spouse for sure. They even have patio seating for two which in the evening gives an amazing view of the river. 10/10 restaurant. I will definitely be going back. Thank you Floriana!”

8. Smoke on the Water

Located in the picturesque River Lights area, Smoke on the Water offers a dining experience that combines great food with breathtaking views. This waterfront restaurant is perfect for couples who appreciate a more laid-back atmosphere without compromising on quality.

The menu features a variety of dishes, from fresh seafood to hearty steaks, all prepared with a Southern flair. What makes this spot truly special is its outdoor seating area, which offers panoramic views of the water. After dinner, take a romantic stroll along the pier or cozy up in the gazebo to watch the sunset – it’s the perfect way to end a memorable date night.

Smoke on the Water
Address: 3704 Watercraft Ferry Ave, Wilmington, NC 28412
Phone: (910) 833-5069
Website: https://smokeonthewater.squarespace.com/

Google Reviews

Belinda Wisdom 5/5

“We like the ambiance and the scenery at this restaurant. It’s beautiful looking out over the river and watching the sunset. The drinks are good also. … Only disappointing thing was they knew we were celebrating a birthday and most restaurants usually bring you a little complimentary dessert for the birthday person. Didn’t happen here.”

Nicole 4/5

“Such mixed feelings for this place. The first night we went we absolutely LOVED it!! The food was fresh, delicious, and plated so beautifully! The views were stunning! The service wasn’t the best but everything else was beyond perfect so of course we returned the next evening. … I honestly don’t understand how EVERYTHING can be so drastically different within a day. It’s one thing to have a cook that perhaps isn’t as skilled but the food was literally completely different as well.”

L Boyd 5/5

“First time eating here on Sept 15th and we loved it. It was raining a little so I look forward to coming back and enjoying the beautiful water view outside! Our service was outstanding and all food was great. Our party of 4 had the roasted brussel sprouts, pulled pork bbq sandwich with fries, shrimp tacos, soup, and the Smoked Trio (brisket burnt ends, pulled pork bbq, smoked chicken wings). Didn’t care for the coconut cake though.”

Hidden Gems for Intimate Date Nights

9. Rx Chicken & Oysters Restaurant

Rx Restaurant is a hidden gem that offers a truly unique dining experience. Housed in a renovated drugstore, this charming restaurant combines Southern hospitality with innovative cuisine. The intimate setting, complete with exposed brick walls and warm lighting, creates the perfect atmosphere for a romantic date night.

What sets Rx apart is its commitment to local, seasonal ingredients and its ever-changing menu. For special occasions, they offer a personalized menu option, allowing you to create a bespoke dining experience tailored to your preferences. Their craft cocktail program is equally impressive, featuring creative concoctions that perfectly complement the food.

Rx Restaurant
Address: 421 Castle St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Phone: (910) 399-3080
Website: https://www.rxwilmington.com/

Google Reviews

Nicole Elin Antoine 4/5

“I walked to this spot from my apt because I had no food in my fridge and pleasantly surprised at their food. Friend had told me that this place was pretty fishy and gave it a thumbs down so I was skeptical, but I ordered the crab dip with fresh tortillas and a clam chowder soup, which was delicious and broth-based (preferred)… Overall I think I picked the right items on the menu. In the future I’m gonna try the oysters and fried chicken. Service was perfect!”

Jennifer Davidson, Realtor 5/5

“Food was delicious, first time back since they reopened and it didn’t disappoint. The staff seemed so much nicer than previous times I had been. The menu was diverse and food was all very delicious. Will be back and highly recommend! …”

Stephanie Flint 5/5

“Outstanding service and meal. The oysters were fabulous as were the pickled shrimp. The dessert (pound cake with strawberries) was really special. I would drive back there from Atlanta for that alone! I can’t wait to go back the next time I’m visiting Wilmington!”

10. Roko Italian Cuisine

Roko Italian Cuisine has long been a favorite among Wilmington couples, and for good reason. This family-owned restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience in a cozy, intimate setting that’s perfect for a romantic evening.

The menu at Roko features classic Italian dishes prepared with a modern twist. From handmade pasta to perfectly cooked seafood, each dish is crafted with care and attention to detail. The wine list is equally impressive, featuring a selection of Italian wines that pair beautifully with the food. For a truly romantic experience, I recommend sharing the Osso Buco, a tender veal shank that’s perfect for two.

Roko Italian Cuisine
Address: 6801 Parker Farm Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405
Phone: (910) 679-4783
Website: https://rokoitalian.com/

Google Reviews

Leila Shapiro 5/5

“I like to respect a Restaurant that deserves it – And I think I just found my fav Italian restaurant in Wilmington and we have lived here a year already! You would not think much of it driving by at Mayfaire but always thought – Need to try that place. It was our first time here tonight on a Wed night and they were busy for midweek. … This restaurant has character. Not very big and so need reservations. … We LOVED IT!!”

Corey M 5/5

“The bartender was truly remarkable. She skillfully managed the bar during a time when everyone decided to indulge, and she effortlessly served drinks to the bar as well as the entire restaurant. If you choose to sit at the bar, you might catch glimpses of the kitchen discussing and fine-tuning your order, which actually adds to the overall experience in a positive way. Thank you. 10/10”

marcel branch 4/5

“Browned herb butter Butternut squash ravioli was delicious the al dente herb roasted ravioli was complimented well with feta and candied walnuts. The New Zeland Mussels with hearty with rich buttery garlic. … The service was timely, polite, and helpful. The owner made a couple visits and seemed genuinely interested in our experience. The seating was decent, on the small side for a party of three ordering a lot of food. I have some noise sensitivity, I could hear too many conversations from surrounding tables. I thought the catch of the day was over-priced. The price matches the clientele ability to pay.”

Planning Your Perfect Date Night in Wilmington

Reservations and Timing

When planning your romantic dinner in Wilmington, it’s essential to make reservations, especially for the more popular restaurants. I recommend booking at least a week in advance, or even earlier for special occasions like Valentine’s Day. Many restaurants offer online reservation systems, making it easy to secure your table.

Consider the timing of your dinner as well. For a more intimate experience, opt for a later reservation when the dinner rush has died down. This will allow for a more relaxed, leisurely meal and often more attentive service.

Dress Code and Atmosphere

While Wilmington generally has a relaxed vibe, many of these romantic restaurants have a smart casual or business casual dress code. It’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm the dress code. Dressing up a bit can add to the special feel of the evening and show your partner that you’ve put thought into the date.

Pairing Dinner with Other Activities

To make your date night even more special, consider pairing your dinner with other romantic activities in Wilmington. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Take a sunset stroll along the Riverwalk before or after dinner.
2. Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at a rooftop bar like Cloud 9 for stunning views of the city.
3. Cap off the evening with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic downtown area.
4. If you’re wine enthusiasts, consider a wine tasting at a local vineyard before heading to dinner.

By combining a fantastic meal with other romantic activities, you can create a truly memorable date night experience in Wilmington.

Wilmington, NC offers a diverse array of romantic dining options to suit every taste and occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special milestone or simply want to treat your loved one to an unforgettable evening, these 10 restaurants provide the perfect backdrop for love to flourish. From waterfront views to intimate hidden gems, each venue offers its own unique charm and culinary delights. So go ahead, make that reservation, and get ready to create lasting memories in this charming coastal city. After all, there’s nothing quite like sharing a delicious meal and meaningful conversation with the one you love in a truly romantic setting.