We're only six months into 2022, but it'salready been a busy year forthe local food scene. We wanted to take a look at some of the openings in the greater Wilmington area that are already generating good buzz and good reviews. Did we miss your favorite new spot? Let us know; email aballard@gannett.com.
Castle Street Kitchen
Raleigh transplants Heather and Lauren Rhodes didn't take long making Wilmington their home -- or makingthis restaurant a part of the downtown community. It was always a goal to create an inclusiveand comfortable environment. Since opening in March, they've succeeded according to their fans. Details:https://www.castlestkitchen.com, 509 Castle St. Wilmington.
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CuginoForno
I don't know if you've seen any reviews, but people are already loving this no-frills pizza spot next to Hi-Wire Brewing in Wilmington's Soda Pop District. The family-owned, North Carolina-based chain uses wood-fired ovens and ingredientsstraight from Italy. Details:https://cuginoforno.com, 1020 Princess St.,Wilmington.
Drift Café
The fourth location of this local coffee shop and café just happens to be located in one of Wrightsville Beach's most iconic and high-profile spots.Look forhigh-end coffee, beer and wine, brunchy co*cktails like the Cucumber Jalapeño Margarita and Gin Lavender Lemonade, as well as a menu of bowls, French toast, a breakfast burrito, and a selection of Benedicts. Details: https://driftcoffee.kitchen/pages/wrightsville-beach, 114 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach.
The Getaway Café & Provisions
When Craig Love and Annalee Johnston of Coastal South Hospitality Group closed their COASTrestaurant in Carolina Beach, many locals were wondering what would come next. The Riverlights community, in particular, was thrilled with the opening of this café. The owners have now started a series of Social Club events liketastings and cooking classes there, too. Details:https://thegetawaync.com/,109 Pier Master Point,Wilmington.
Related news:A sneak peek at Riverlights' new café and restaurant in Wilmington
On Instagram:Follow Port City Foodies for more food news
The Half
This spot is really newly opened, as of earlier this month, but fans already seem to love the sandwiches-and-beer addition tothe Brooklyn Arts District. A best-seller so far is The Tucker, a turkey sandwich with a pop of Romesco sauce to make it special. Pair it with one of their award-winning draft selections and enjoy at the bar, or out in the beer garden. Details:https://www.thehalfbev.com/,510 1/2 Red Cross St., Wilmington.
Indochine Express
When Solange “Niki” Thompson expands she does it in a big way. After growing her restaurant group in Wilmington, she turned to Brunswick County.The latest isan Indochine Express location in Southport. With the closing of the longtime Asian eatery Thai Peppers, locals seemed especially glad to know this was a new option. Thompson is also planning a location inLeland. Details:https://www.indochineexpress.com/, 1131 N. Atlantic Ave., Southport.
Lonerider
There's a lot happening in Oak Island, with many new restaurant and food businesses here or on the way. So there's a lot of buzz to goaround. But this location in the former Fish House location adds some brew-pub and distillery vibes, thanks to the Raleigh-based parent business. Details: https://loneriderbeer.com/, 5710 57th Place West, Oak Island.
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Origins Food and Drink
Ash Aziz’s latest restaurant in Autumn Hall is bringing the same attention that his other eateries have. The look is what locals have come to expect from his thoughtfully designed spaces, and the menu brings new interpretations of classic American fare.Details: https://originsfoodanddrink.com/, 102 Autumn Hall Drive, Wilmington.
Riverview Restaurant
Located in an unbeatable location in The Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation area, this restaurant has in the past been one mostly for the active and retired military personnel who camp and train there. But when new owners, including PinPoint's Jeff Duckworth, made sure the views would be available for locals, too. Look for po'boys, fresh seafood, tacos, and daily specials. Details:https://www.riverviewrestaurantff.com/, 121 Riverfront Road, Kure Beach.
Tacos El Jefe/ Burgaw Alimente
In Burgaw, locals are already loving the tacos and other authentic fares from Jonathan Martinez Gomez and his family. They started offering the tacos as a food truck with a mostly permanent location in Pender County. Since then, they've joined forces with another business, a bakery, to formBurgaw Alimente. It's a little sweet and a little savory Details: https://www.facebook.com/TACOSELJ3F3, 118 W. Fremont St., Burgaw.
More:Wilmington restaurant group expanding to include butchery/bakery in Hampstead
True Blue Butcher and Barrel
The newest offering fromBobby Zimmerman (at least until the new bakery and butcher shop opens in Hampstead) is a slightly different variation from his original restaurant in The Forum in Wilmington.Look for high-quality meats, an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection, and lunch, dinner, and brunch menus. Feel free to order a co*cktail with a steak garnish. Details:https://www.wearetrueblue.com/butcherandbarrel, 110 Greenfield St., Wilmington.
Za Pie
This restaurant from a pizza veteran brings forth love and appreciation for the craft, in its many forms. The menu includes stromboli, traditionalpizzas, cauliflower crusts, specialty pies, and skillet pizzas baked in cast iron. Try the outdoor seating, or get it as take-out or delivery. Details:https://www.zapie.com/, 6142 Carolina Beach Road, Wilmington.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at aballard@gannett.com.
