If you’re planning the perfect Wilmington NC date night, you probably already know the go-to spots because you’ve downloaded my Wilmington Guide—but what about the hidden gems? Whether you’re new to town, showing off for someone special, or just tired of the same old places, this guide will take your date night from basic to unforgettable.
As Wilmington Realtors who spend our time crisscrossing town, from Wrightsville Beach to Downtown, The Costin Group has your back when it comes to exploring the best of local dining. Below are 10 of our favorite spots for date night in Wilmington, NC. These aren’t just crowd-pleasers, they’re conversation starters, mood-setters, and memory makers.
The Vine - Downtown Wilmington
Tucked away on Dock Street in downtown Wilmington, The Vine is an effortlessly romantic wine bar and eatery that feels like a hidden gem, even though it deserves center stage. Known for its curated wine list, crave-able flatbreads, and charcuterie boards that double as works of art, this spot is perfect for couples looking to slow down and savor.
We actually had the chance to collaborate with The Vine on a Valentine’s-themed tasting night, and we’re still dreaming about the food and drink pairings. From bacon wrapped dates to custom pink cocktails, every detail was thoughtful and photo-worthy (and yes, it tasted just as good as it looked).
Why we loved it for dinner:
- Cozy indoor/outdoor seating options
- Build-your-own cheeseboards with locally sourced ingredients
- Themed dinner & wine tasting events, and seasonal pairings that keep things exciting
Pro tip: Go for a late dinner, split a board and a flatbread, and sip wine while you people-watch from their charming sidewalk seating.
Tomiko-San - Lumina Station
One of the newest additions to Wilmington’s dining scene, TomiKo-San is a modern sushi and Japanese small plates restaurant tucked into the charming Lumina Station shopping village. Upscale but unfussy, this spot brings a fresh, elevated energy to Wrightsville Beach date nights—and trust us, it lives up to the hype.
From thoughtfully crafted nigiri to shareable small plates and elegant cocktails, TomiKo-San is where refined meets relaxed. Every dish feels like art, and the interiors are just as gorgeous—think polished wood, moody lighting, and coastal-modern vibes.
We stopped in recently for a date night and were blown away by the quality and presentation. The crispy rice and tuna tartare? Unforgettable. The cocktail list? Sophisticated without trying too hard.
Why it’s a date night dream:
- Minutes to the Wrightsville Beach bridge
- Romantic atmosphere with dim lighting and ambiance
- Unique shareables, think tuna tartare on pork rinds...yum
Pro tip: Make a reservation on the Resy or OpenTable app ahead of time!
Savorez - Downtown Wilmington
Savorez is that tiny downtown restaurant that punches way above its weight—bold Latin American flavors, bright colors, and an energy that’s magnetic. It’s upbeat, intimate, and every single dish is packed with personality (and spice).
Locals love this place, but it still somehow flies under the radar for out-of-towners. The menu changes often, but signatures like the sweet potato and chorizo are always a win. Bonus: They’re incredible about dietary restrictions without compromising flavor.
- Minutes to the Wrightsville Beach bridge
- Romantic atmosphere with dim lighting and ambiance
- Unique shareables, think tuna tartare on pork rinds...yum
Local tip: Order the plantain chip appetizer and split the paella. You’re welcome.
Pro tip: Don’t skip the cocktails. And definitely make a reservation, there are only a handful of tables, and they go fast.
Catch - Wilmington Proper
If you’re searching for one of Wilmington’s best-kept secrets for a seafood date night, look no further than Catch. Tucked unassumingly along Market Street, this award-winning restaurant by Chef Keith Rhodes (yes—the same one featured on Top Chef) delivers elevated coastal cuisine with a bold, Southern twist.
From the outside, you might miss it—but inside, it’s a cozy, artful space that lets the food take center stage. Every dish at Catch is plated like fine art, but it never feels stuffy. The menu is driven by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, and it shows—from the pan-seared scallops to the signature crab-crusted grouper.
Why it’s perfect for date night:
- Locally sourced seafood that's as fresh as it gets
- Inventive takes on coastal classics you won't find anywhere else
- One of Wilmington's most iconic, well-known chefs, Keith Rhodes
Pro tip: Book in advance! It’s a small dining room and fills up fast. Start with the deviled eggs or fried green tomatoes, and don’t skip dessert (the bread pudding is next-level).
South Front Tavern - South Front District
If you remember our cozy winter Instagram reel about South Front, you’ll remember how much we loved this place!
South Front Tavern is one of Wilmington’s most underrated date night spots—tucked inside the cool, urban South Front District near Satellite Bar and Benny’s Big Time. It’s warm, vibey, and gives major “let’s be regulars here” energy.
The menu features elevated American comfort food with coastal flair—think duck wings, handmade pastas, and seasonal mains—all crafted with creativity and soul. The cocktails are equally thoughtful (get the Lavender Bee’s Knees), and the wine list is sneaky good.
Why it’s perfect for date night:
- Excellent food downtown, without the downtown chaos
- Easy to bar hop after- Satellite is right around the corner
- A local crowd that makes you feel like you're in on a secret
- Best place during football season, always has the games on
Pro tip: Go midweek and split a few small plates at the bar. It’s casual, intimate, and unforgettable in all the right ways.
True Blue Butcher & Barrel
For couples who love a more refined, upscale date night with serious flavor—True Blue Butcher and Barrel is a showstopper. Located in The Forum off Military Cutoff, it’s equal parts modern steakhouse and whiskey lover’s dream.
From dry-aged ribeye to truffle fries and craft cocktails made with rare bourbon, everything here is a level up. The interiors are sleek and moody, perfect for dressing up and going all in on a full-course dinner.
Why it’s perfect for date night:
- DJ play house music for the late night crowd on the weekend
- Service is unmatched, when seated at their huge bar, you become a guinea pig to whatever delicious craft the bartender comes up with
- Best steak, sides, and bourbon pairings in town
Pro tip: Snag a seat at the chef’s bar if you’re into watching the magic happen, or ask about their bourbon tasting flights for a fun twist on dessert.
Covey - Midtown Wilmington
Covey is one of Wilmington’s most exciting new restaurants—bringing refined, seasonal cuisine to a warm, intimate space tucked off Racine Drive. The design is gorgeous (wood beams, glowing light, soft linens), and the menu leans into Southern roots with modern elegance.
With a rotating menu that features house-made sourdough, fresh pasta, and standout mains like duck or blackened fish, Covey is an ideal pick for couples looking to slow down and savor.
Why it’s perfect for date night:
- Cozy, upscale atmosphere in the middle of Wilmington
- In a very residential part of town, a spot that only the locals frequent
- Chef-owned and operated, so every detail and dish feels personal
Pro tip: Go early for a pre-dinner cocktail at the bar, or their patio, it’s one of the prettiest in town. This is a must-book-ahead spot, especially on weekends.
Ceviche's - Wrightsville Beach
Ceviche’s feels like a secret tropical hideaway just minutes from Wrightsville Beach. With Caribbean- and Panamanian-inspired dishes, strong rum cocktails, and lush greenery all around, it’s effortlessly romantic without trying too hard.
You’ll find dishes like coconut rice, sweet plantains, and fresh local seafood prepared with bold spices and bright flavors. The vibe is relaxed, colorful, and made for golden hour date nights on the patio.
Why it’s perfect for date night:
- Ambiance that makes you feel like you're actually in Panama
- Instagram worthy cocktails and appetizers, delicious food no matter what
- Just over the Wrightsville Beach bridge for easy access to post-dinner cocktails at Jimmy's
Pro tip: This is one of our favorite weeknight dinner spots when you want a getaway vibe without leaving Wilmington. Make a reservation on the weekends!
Manna - Downtown Wilmington
For couples who crave creativity and fine dining in an intimate setting, Manna is the crown jewel of downtown Wilmington. This Michelin-recommended, chef-driven restaurant is known for its ever-changing menu, upscale service, and flawless attention to detail.
With low lighting, moody interiors, and a serious cocktail program (hello, Manna Ave. 5), this is where you go when you want to impress. The vibe is special occasion without being stuffy—and the food is consistently among the best in the city.
Why it’s perfect for date night:
- Impeccable service and impressive seasonally inspired cuisine
- Right in the heart of downtown, perfect for a post dinner stroll to Kilwins or the Riverwalk
Pro tip: Start with drinks at a cocktail bar nearby, like Banter or Whiskey Tango Foxtrot, or book a reservation at the chef’s table for a next-level experience.
Ready to fall in love with Wilmington?!
At The Costin Group, we’re more than just Wilmington Realtors, we’re your local guides to the best the Port City has to offer. Whether you’re house hunting near Wrightsville Beach or setting roots in historic downtown, we’ll help you fall in love with your neighborhood and your lifestyle.
