Jurisdiction: Wilmington NC + surrounding waters

The Spots

+ ADD A SPOT

188 spots on file

A-
G Prime Steak & CellarWrightsville Beach · upscaleThe steakhouse burger: a 10oz house-ground patty from the G Prime butcher program, dressed simply and served with tallow frites and truffle aioli.91.3 / 100 · 1 inspection · 1 burgers on menu
B+
Rebellion NCDowntown · pub/tavernReviewers call The Rebellion and the rotating chef burgers standouts at this whiskey-focused gastropub.88.8 / 100 · 1 inspection · 4 burgers on menu
B+
Dave and BustersNorth Wilmington · burger joint87.5 / 100 · 1 inspection
C
True Blue Butcher and TableNorth Wilmington · upscaleReviewers call the butcher-grind bacon cheeseburger excellent and rave about the $7 Wednesday smash burger special.74.7 / 100 · 3 inspections · 4 burgers on menu
C-
The Reel CafeDowntown · pub/tavernDowntown restaurant and rooftop bar since 1998 with a video-game-themed double smash burger lineup.71.6 / 100 · 4 inspections · 4 burgers on menu
?
22 NorthWrightsville Beach · pub/tavernRenovated late-night restaurant and live-music bar on the beach whose frequently changing New American menu keeps a gourmet burger section (roughly $14-16).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
8207 NOMAPorters Neck · fast casualNeighborhood takeout cafe praised for its rotating Dave's Burger of the Week.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Al's Burger ShackLeland · burger jointChapel Hill's cult-favorite burger shack brought its all-natural, cooked-to-temp burgers to Leland; the Bobo and Mookie are fan favorites.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 6 burgers on menu
?
Angus Grill (Brooklyn Arts)Downtown · burger jointBrooklyn Arts District location of the Angus burger chain, a Stacker top-rated Wilmington burger stop.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Angus Grill (Monkey Junction)Monkey Junction · burger jointGreenville-born Angus burger specialist with 25 custom handcrafted burger recipes.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Anne Bonny's Bar and GrillDowntown · pub/tavernWilmington's only floating bar and grill, built on a barge anchored to the Riverwalk.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Applebee's Grill + BarLeland · pub/tavernNational casual grill-and-bar chain with a standard handcrafted burger lineup; Leland's only big-chain sit-down bar & grill.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Bandana's American GrillBurgaw · dinerFamily-owned grill across from the courthouse serving Certified Angus Beef burgers, steaks, seafood and pizza.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Bar-B-Que HouseOak Island · fast casualBeach barbecue house loading plates with BBQ and southern sides, plus a double hand-pattied burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Beach House BurgersKure Beach · burger jointSeasonal lime-green walk-up shack a block from the ocean, loved for thick, juicy cooked-to-order burgers at cheap prices.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Beach Shop & GrillTopsail Beach · upscaleHistoric Topsail Beach bistro using local ingredients, carrying on a decades-old tradition of fresh hand-pattied burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Beacon 315Southport · pub/tavernMarina restaurant with tiki bar at St. James Plantation, the only public dining in St James, known for excellent burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Beat StreetDowntown · fast casualCargo District street-food concept from the True Blue restaurant group.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Beauchaine's 211Surf City · upscaleWaterfront fine-casual spot for seafood, steaks and live music that keeps one signature Black Angus cheeseburger on the menu.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Big Daddy's Seafood RestaurantKure Beach · upscaleKure Beach seafood landmark feeding vacationers since 1970, open seasonally (currently open for the season).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Blossoms RestaurantLeland · pub/tavernPublic golf-club restaurant at Magnolia Greens serving breakfast through dinner with Black Angus burgers, trivia and patio music.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Blue Surf CafeMidtown · dinerCafe near UNCW where WECT's Cape Fear Foodie called the burger a clear standout.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Bluewater Waterfront GrillWrightsville Beach · upscaleTwo-story waterfront grill overlooking the Intracoastal with one chargrilled signature cheeseburger among the seafood.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Board & Barrel Coastal KitchenDowntown · upscaleHotel Ballast's indoor/outdoor riverfront restaurant serving creative takes on Southern recipes.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Bob's DogsOak Island · fast casualHot dog stand institution since 2010 with specialty third-pound burgers and fresh-squeezed lemonade.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Brasserie du SoleilNorth Wilmington · upscaleFrench brasserie at Lumina Station whose camembert-topped Brasserie Burger is a regular on local best-burger lists.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Bridgewater Wines + Dines - Porters NeckPorters Neck · upscaleCombined wine shop, wine club and bistro whose short rib burger is a Burger Week standout in Porters Neck.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Bridgewater Wines + Dines (Leland)Leland · upscaleLeland location of the wine-shop-restaurant hybrid.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Brodee Dogs Brew HouseLeland · fast casualCraft-beer hot dog and burger house famous for its bacon-wrapped deep-fried Brodee dog and smothered fries.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Buddy's Crab House & Oyster BarSurf City · pub/tavernDecades-old oceanfront crab house and oyster bar that still keeps a cheeseburger and shrimp burger on the menu.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Buffalo Wild Wings (Monkey Junction)Monkey Junction · pub/tavernNational chain sports bar anchoring the Monkey Junction retail strip; wings-first but carries a full smashed-burger line.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Burgaw BrewingBurgaw · breweryFull-service craft brewery and restaurant in downtown Burgaw pairing house beers with diner-style smash burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Cape Fear Seafood CompanyMonkey Junction · upscalePopular regional seafood restaurant whose original Monkey Junction location serves a Pat LaFrieda Angus burger at lunch (dinner menu is seafood-only).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Cape Fear Seafood Company - Porters NeckPorters Neck · upscalePopular local seafood group's Porters Neck outpost, pairing regional fish plates with a single loaded lunch burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Cape Fear Seafood Company - WaterfordBelville · upscalePopular regional seafood house in Waterford whose lone Angus burger holds its own against the fish plates.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Cape Fear Smash Burgers & Beyondfood truckChef-driven family food truck from fine-dining vets bringing high-heat smash technique to Wilmington breweries; every burger comes with chips and salsa.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 7 burgers on menu
?
Capt'n Bill's Backyard GrillNorth Wilmington · pub/tavernOutdoor sports bar and grill since 1982 with 12 lighted sand volleyball courts, three bars and an on-site brewery.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Carolina Ale HouseMidtown · pub/tavernRegional Carolina sports-bar chain with a full burger lineup.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Carolina Beach Grill & BarCarolina Beach · pub/tavernLocally owned 'elevated sports bar' across from the boardwalk with classic-rock-named scratch dishes, 8oz cooked-to-order burgers and gluten-free buns (full menu only on Toast ordering, not scrapeable).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Carolina Coastal CafeSouthport · dinerBreakfast-and-lunch cafe (CaCoCa) with a tight menu of salads, waffles and tasty burgers with great onion rings.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Cast Iron KitchenPorters Neck · dinerDaytime Southern breakfast-and-lunch favorite (8am-2pm) that grinds its burger beef fresh every morning.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Castle Street KitchenDowntown · dinerCasual updated-soul-food kitchen praised locally for its burgers (closed Tuesdays).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Celtic Monkey Irish Pub and GrillMonkey Junction · pub/tavernNeighborhood Irish pub in Monkey Junction pairing pub burgers with Guinness and Irish classics.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Chasers Sports Bar & GrillOak Island · pub/tavernCasual sports bar with wings, traditional burgers and one of the few Oak Island kitchens open late.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Christopher's Steakhouse and SeafoodLeland · upscaleMade-from-scratch Certified Angus Beef steakhouse in Waterford known equally for its 8 oz hand-pattied burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Coastal Wing & Spirits Co.Surf City · pub/tavernThe only wing shop in town, pairing house specialty wings and Angus burgers with handcrafted cocktails.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Commodore Public House & KitchenDowntown · pub/tavernElevated bar food with a Latin twist from the Rebellion team; the Carl B. signature burger and sliders-on-tostones are the talked-about items.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Cook Out (Market St)North Wilmington · fast casualWilmington's newest Cook Out, opened 2026 in a former Wells Fargo on Market St.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Cook Out (Monkey Junction)Monkey Junction · fast casualMonkey Junction drive-thru of the NC char-grill chain, open late.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Cook Out (S College Rd)Midtown · fast casualNC char-grilled burger institution open until 3 a.m. with 40+ milkshake flavors, a UNCW late-night staple.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Copper PennyDowntown · pub/tavernA downtown pub institution whose stacked double Angus burgers are a longtime local favorite.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 6 burgers on menu
?
Cornelia's RestaurantPorters Neck · upscaleLand-and-sea American restaurant inside the gated Davis Community that is open to the public and runs $10 bistro-burger Thursdays.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Cowfin Bar and GrillHampstead · pub/tavernFamily-owned sports bar famous for creative hand-rolled smash burgers, especially the Peanut Butter Bacon Jam and Mac Attack.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 8 burgers on menu
?
Crab PotSurf City · pub/tavernLow-country and Caribbean seafood joint famous for frozen hurricanes, gumbo and its Crabby Patty burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Daddy Mac's Beach GrilleSurf City · pub/tavernOceanfront grille overlooking Surf City Pier known for fresh seafood, Cajun jambalaya and solid lunch burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
David's Deli & RestaurantNorth Wilmington · dinerLong-running family deli whose burgers earn it a spot on Stacker's highest-rated Wilmington burger list.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Dockside Restaurant & BarNorth Wilmington · pub/tavernWaterfront Intracoastal seafood standby with dock-and-dine slips where the lone Angus burger anchors the sandwich menu.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Dram YardDowntown · upscaleChef-driven courtyard restaurant at the ARRIVE hotel with a $15 Dram Burger + beer deal on Tuesdays.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Duck and Dive PubDowntown · pub/tavernDowntown dive pub open until 2am with 16 drafts, free live music, and pub-grub burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Duffer's Pub & GrilleOak Island · pub/tavernGolf-club pub at Oak Island Golf Club serving premier half-pound CAB burgers, wraps and prime rib.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 5 burgers on menu
?
Eric's GrilleSouthport · dinerCash-only nostalgic breakfast-and-lunch grill where the menu flips to old-fashioned hand-patted burgers at 10:30am.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Fat Andy's BurgerSouthport · burger jointTiny 1920s roadside shack (lunch hours only) that locals call the best burger and fresh-cut fries around.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Fish Bites Seafood RestaurantSouth Wilmington · fast casualCasual seafood restaurant attached to a fresh fish market; menu covers seafood, chicken, steaks and burgers plus a kids burger (itemized menu blocked from scraping).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Fish House GrillNorth Wilmington · pub/tavernCasual, affordable waterfront seafood deck at the foot of the Wrightsville drawbridge with a small but solid burger duo.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Fishy Fishy CafeSouthport · pub/tavernCasual dockside Yacht Basin seafood cafe with water views that keeps a Paradise Burger among the fish plates.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Five GuysNorth Wilmington · fast casualOnly Five Guys in the Wilmington area, with hand-formed patties and boardwalk-style fries.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Flying Machine Oyster BarWrightsville Beach · breweryFlying Machine Brewing's oyster bar in the former Banks Channel Pub space, pouring its own beer alongside smash burgers and local oysters.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Four CornersNorth Wilmington · pub/tavernChapel Hill-born basketball-themed sports bar (opened 2024) near the Wrightsville drawbridge, built around wings and half-pound burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 6 burgers on menu
?
Fox's Hole in the WallDowntown · pub/tavernCozy downtown bar known for half-pound smash burger handhelds and garlic parm curly fries, open late.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Front Street BreweryDowntown · breweryPopular smash burgers with house-brewed beer pairings in Wilmington's oldest brewery.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Frying PanSouthport · upscaleWaterfront Southport favorite for fried and blackened local seafood that also grills a respectable burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Gallagher's High Waters Sports Bar and GrillSurf City · pub/tavernSurf City sports bar and grill with burgers, house specialty wings, seafood, steaks and pasta.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Goody Goody Omelet HouseMidtown · dinerCash-only counter-and-booth institution since 1977, famous for Spanish omelets and hand-pattied griddle burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
GrimmburgerNorth Wilmington · burger jointSmashburger-and-chopped-cheese specialist that took over part of the old Epic Food Co space at The Forum, with beer and wine.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Halftime Sports Bar & GrillLeland · pub/tavernLeland sports bar open to 2am with Montana-raised beef burgers, wings, TVs, trivia and live music.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 10 burgers on menu
?
Hang Ten GrillCarolina Beach · fast casualSurfer-vibe casual beach joint overlooking Carolina Beach Lake known for hand-made fresh-beef burgers and sandwiches; online menu not published (68 lunch items, call for details).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Havana's RestaurantCarolina Beach · upscaleChef-driven fresh seafood and steak spot whose lone burger is a signature bison-and-chuck blend.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Hell's KitchenDowntown · pub/tavernOne Tree Hill-famous downtown bar and grill with late hours and a $9.99 classic-burger Wednesday special.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 6 burgers on menu
?
Henry's Restaurant & BarMidtown · pub/tavernMidtown scratch-kitchen whose Wilmingtonian burger is frequently called among the city's best.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster BarNorth Wilmington · upscaleWilmington's oyster-bar institution since 1980, serving Cape Fear seafood with a lone burger for non-seafood eaters.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Holland's Shelter Creek RestaurantBurgaw · dinerLegendary rebuilt swamp-side fish camp with fresh-cut steaks, catfish and hand-pattied burgers plus boat rentals and a campground.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
HootersNorth Wilmington · pub/tavernNational wings-and-sports-bar chain whose Wilmington location survived the 2025 bankruptcy closures and serves a standard smashed-burger lineup.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
HopLite Irish Pub and RestaurantCarolina Beach · pub/tavernCozy Irish pub and beer garden with homemade Irish favorites and a reputation locally for 'the best burger around.'AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Hot Diggity DogzSurf City · fast casualSeasonal beach concession stand at the beach access serving hot dogs, burgers and ice cream.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Hurricane Alley'sCarolina Beach · pub/tavernBoardwalk bar with a rooftop deck overlooking the ocean serving smash burgers, seafood sandwiches and frozen drinks.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries (Hampstead)Hampstead · fast casualHampstead outpost of the NC all-American diner chain.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Hwy 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries (Leland)Leland · fast casualNC-born retro diner chain serving hand-pattied burgers and frozen custard shakes.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Island Burgers & BitesCarolina Beach · burger jointAward-winning hand-pattied Angus burgers smashed to order with candied bacon; frequently called the best burger on Pleasure Island.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 6 burgers on menu
?
Island DelightsSurf City · diner50s-inspired diner and ice cream shop serving fresh hand-pattied burgers and hand-dipped ice cream.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Jack Mackerel's Island GrillKure Beach · pub/tavernCaribbean-inspired grill steps from the Kure Beach pier, a local Happy Hour and late-night staple.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Jebby's on 17Hampstead · pub/tavernNeighborhood full-bar restaurant with nine big screens serving Low Country favorites, she-crab soup and hand-pattied Angus burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Jerry Allen's Sports Bar & GrillWrightsville Beach · pub/tavernFamily-friendly beach sports bar with wall-to-wall TVs and a cheap, street-named burger list.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 9 burgers on menu
?
Jester's CafeDowntown · dinerBoutique breakfast/brunch bistro known for homemade fare and a standout black bean burger (no beef burger).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Joe's OasisMonkey Junction · pub/tavernFamily-owned neighborhood bar and grill with a dedicated half-pound burger menu.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
JohnnyLukes KitchenBarNorth Wilmington · pub/tavernFamily-owned New American gastropub with an upstairs loft bar, known for scratch cooking and half-pound Angus burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 5 burgers on menu
?
Junction 421Monkey Junction · pub/tavernLocally owned scratch-kitchen bar and grill whose pimento-cheese-and-bacon Carolina Burger is the neighborhood signature.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Kate's Pancake HouseCarolina Beach · dinerBright pink-and-green breakfast institution whose after-11am lunch menu is full of burgers, cheesesteaks and crab sandwiches.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Katy's Grill & BarMidtown · pub/tavernLong-running sports bar and live-music venue since 1983, voted Best Burger by Encore magazine readers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Koko CabanaOak Island · pub/tavernBeachfront restaurant and bar at the Oak Island pier with island bowls, tacos, local seafood and burgers overlooking the ocean.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Kornerstone BistroPorters Neck · upscaleWood-fired Italian/Mediterranean bistro in Porters Neck with a themed international burger list on brioche.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 5 burgers on menu
?
Larry's Deli-QueTopsail Beach · fast casualNewer deli-barbecue hybrid where everything from the smoked BBQ to the burgers is made in-house.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Lazy Pirate Island Sports GrillCarolina Beach · pub/tavernBig family-friendly sports bar with all-you-can-eat crab legs, axe throwing, live music and a burgers/wings section (menu published only as images).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Little Bit's GrillOak Island · burger jointClassic beach burger joint repeatedly voted best burger on the island, with breakfast, onion rings and hot dogs.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Locals TavernLeland · pub/tavernLeland's premier watering hole with cold beer, live entertainment, wings and a full scratch kitchen open late.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Loco Jo's Bar & GrillSouthport · pub/tavernSouthport gastropub mixing a half-pound prime-blend burger with tacos and Asian-twist dishes.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Lonerider at Oak IslandOak Island · breweryRaleigh brewery's waterfront outpost at the marina pairing sunset dock views with pub fare and a popular smash burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Lovey's Natural Foods & CafeNorth Wilmington · fast casualHealth-food market and cafe in Landfall Business Park serving organic, vegetarian-leaning fare including veggie and turkey burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Low Tide Steakhouse & SandBarSurf City · upscaleFamily-owned steakhouse with a sandbar bar that grinds ribeye and tenderloin in-house for its half-pound burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Marina GrillDowntown · upscaleLocally-sourced waterfront restaurant at Port City Marina with Cape Fear River views.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Merritt's Burger HouseSouth Wilmington · burger jointCash-only carhop drive-in unchanged since 1958, beloved for cheap double cheeseburgers 'all the way' with chili and slaw.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Mess HallMidtown · burger jointGrinds its beef and makes its vegan patties in-house; a top Yelp burger pick where every smash burger comes with tots.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 5 burgers on menu
?
Michael's Seafood RestaurantCarolina Beach · upscaleAward-winning seafood restaurant (famous chowder) with a thick short-rib-blend burger for non-seafood eaters.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Mike's Vegan GrillDowntown · fast casualAll-vegan container-kitchen doing scratch-made burgers, cheesesteaks and hot dogs, with $10 burger Mondays.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Molly Pitcher's American GrillMidtown · pub/tavernFamily-owned Southern grill in a restored 1930s midtown landmark whose burger made Yelp's Wilmington top-10 list.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Moore Street Oyster BarSouthport · pub/tavernCoastal-Southern oyster pub with rare bourbons and a hand-pattied cheeseburger locals rave about.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Mr. Wilson's Dawg HouseTopsail Beach · food truckSeasonal beach food stand serving hand-pattied burgers, hot dogs, and shakes from the Godwin's Market parking lot.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Nikki's Fresh Gourmet & Sushi BarDowntown · fast casualDowntown sushi and Asian-fusion staple since 2004 whose big menu also carries a popular cheeseburger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Nineteen Restaurant & BarHampstead · pub/tavernBar and grill at Olde Point Country Club mixing Italian classics, pub fare and creative 6 oz specialty burgers with sundeck views.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Oasis Bar and GrillSouthport · pub/tavernWelcoming local dive with live music and a Thursday Burger Night where burger, fries and a beer beat any price in town.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Ocean Grill & Tiki BarCarolina Beach · pub/tavernOceanfront restaurant and tiki bar on the pier open 8am-10pm daily with panoramic Atlantic views.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Oceanic at Crystal PierWrightsville Beach · upscaleIconic oceanfront seafood restaurant on Crystal Pier with a burger on both dinner and brunch menus.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Ogden Tap RoomOgden · pub/tavernA laid-back Ogden neighborhood spot where locals like building their own burger alongside 40+ beers on tap.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Oklahoma's Original BurgerMidtown · fast casualGeorge Motz-inspired Oklahoma fried onion burgers praised for crispy caramelized-onion edges.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 7 burgers on menu
?
Old Bridge DinerOak Island · dinerAll-day breakfast diner open 6am-2pm where you can get a cheeseburger at 6am and famous clam chowder.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Olde Carolina EateryBurgaw · dinerStep-back-in-time downtown eatery doing breakfast, burgers, hot dogs, orangeades and homemade pie.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
On Thyme RestaurantDowntown · dinerFood-truck-turned-Castle-Street Southern restaurant that tops Stacker's diner-rated Wilmington burger list.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
P.T.'s Olde Fashioned GrilleMidtown · fast casualLocal mini-chain repeatedly voted Wilmington's best burger and fries, known for never-frozen Angus beef, fries cut fresh daily, and hand-squeezed lemonade.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Pie's On Pizzeria & GrillMidtown · fast casualVeteran- and family-owned pizzeria that doubles as a serious smash-burger grill.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Pine Valley MarketMidtown · fast casualLongtime butcher shop/market whose hand-pattied fresh-ground Market Burger is a lunch favorite (cafe serves Mon-Sat 11am-3pm).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Pirates DeckOak Island · pub/tavernNo-frills sports bar hangout with seafood baskets, southern plates, steaks and juicy burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Poe's TavernWrightsville Beach · pub/tavernEdgar Allan Poe-themed gourmet half-pound Angus burgers (plus a rotating Burger of the Day) widely cited as the best burger at Wrightsville Beach.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 8 burgers on menu
?
Poor Piggy's BBQ (Goin' Ham truck)food truckBBQ operation with three area trucks, one of which (Goin' Ham) serves burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Pop's DinerCarolina Beach · dinerCarolina Beach's only late-night 50s-style diner, open 7 days for lunch, dinner and late night with burgers, cheesesteaks and milkshakes.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 5 burgers on menu
?
Prost BiergartenDowntown · pub/tavernGerman-style biergarten and gastropub downtown that fields a Burger Week burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Provision CompanySouthport · fast casualIconic no-frills waterfront shack on the Yacht Basin where the hamburger is as famous as the steamed shrimp.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
River 128 RestaurantDowntown · upscaleRemodeled Southern-coastal riverfront restaurant, the only downtown spot with a private dock for boaters.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
RuckerJohns RestaurantMonkey Junction · pub/tavernLongtime Monkey Junction grill-and-bar known for juicy burgers, steaks and its bar scene (closed Sundays).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
RUMCOWDowntown · upscaleEclectic dinner spot pairing craft rum cocktails with American plates, anchored by its namesake burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Ruth's Chris Steak HouseDowntown · upscaleRiverfront steakhouse whose prime-beef bar burger appears at happy hour.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Rx Chicken and OystersDowntown · upscaleFarm-and-sea-to-table spot in the old Hall's Drugstore building with an old-school NC chili cheeseburger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Sammy Sea's Coastal KitchenNorth Wilmington · dinerBreakfast-and-lunch spot that replaced Waterman's Brewing before the Wrightsville bridge, with a deep half-pound and smash burger list.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 5 burgers on menu
?
Sawmill Cafe and Catering CompanyCastle Hayne · dinerDown-home country cooking cafe on Castle Hayne Road serving breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Sawmill GrillHampstead · dinerLocally owned down-home cooking spot doing steaks, seafood and cheap hand-patted burgers with breakfast all morning.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Sears Landing Grill & Boat DocksSurf City · dinerSoundside family restaurant with boat slips where you can dock for fresh grilled fish or a big 8 oz burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
SeaWitch Cafe & Tiki BarCarolina Beach · pub/tavernLive-music tiki bar and cafe a block off the boardwalk mixing fresh seafood with over-the-top burgers like the Megladon.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Shagger JacksOak Island · pub/tavernLaid-back Oak Island hangout with 50+ beers and a beachy menu running from steamers to signature burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Shake ShackNorth Wilmington · fast casualNational fast-casual smashburger chain whose first southeastern NC location opened in front of Total Wine in April 2026 (no drive-thru).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Shark Bar & KitchenWrightsville Beach · pub/tavernBeach bar steps from Johnny Mercer Pier known for wagyu smash burgers, with a new second-floor sushi bar added in 2026.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar (original location)Carolina Beach · pub/tavernThe original 2007 location of the oyster-bar franchise; menu is seafood-first but includes a burger for landlubbers (itemized menu blocked from scraping).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Smash N DashLeland · food truckLeland-based smash burger truck slinging smash burgers and bacon-wrapped hot dogs, a regular at Flytrap and Waterline Brewing.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Smoke on the WaterSouth Wilmington · pub/tavernOpen-air elevated oyster bar/crab shack with BBQ on the Cape Fear River at Riverlights, with roll-up garage doors and sunset views.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
South Beach GrillWrightsville Beach · pub/tavernSouthern-inspired Banks Channel waterfront spot since 1997 mixing local seafood with a pair of well-regarded burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
South Front TavernDowntown · pub/tavernChef-driven tavern known for bold seasonal dishes and $5 smashburger Thursdays.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Stoked RestaurantCarolina Beach · upscaleHarborside American restaurant with boat-up docking, live music and chuck-brisket-short-rib blend burgers on potato buns.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Sunny Daze SmokehouseCarolina Beach · pub/tavernBoardwalk BBQ joint with rooftop ocean views stacking smoked brisket onto its 8oz smokehouse burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Surf City Ocean Pier Grill & Ice CreamSurf City · fast casualGrill inside the Surf City Ocean Pier, home of the famous half-pound Mosquito Burger and Brightleaf hot dogs.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Surf City SmashSurf City · burger jointDedicated grass-fed smash burger storefront that quickly became Surf City's go-to burger specialist.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
SurfDog Bites and BrewsSurf City · fast casualOne block off the beach doing grilled Angus burgers, all-beef dogs, homemade soups and draft beers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
Sweet Bee's Country GrillBurgaw · dinerOff-the-beaten-path family country grill (formerly Dabby's) with all-day breakfast, pizzas and seasoned-grill burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The Bridge TenderNorth Wilmington · upscaleWaterfront steak-and-seafood institution whose Certified Angus BT Burger is a lunch-only value play.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
The Cardinal RestaurantSouth Wilmington · upscaleCoastal-seasonal neighborhood gathering spot in Masonboro (in the former Halligan's plaza) famous locally for $5 Cardinal Burger Wednesdays.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
The Dive Food & SpiritsCarolina Beach · pub/tavernNeighborhood dive bar locally praised for having some of the best smash burgers on Pleasure Island.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
The Dixie GrillDowntown · dinerA breakfast-and-lunch diner operating since 1903, loved for cheap, hefty half-pound burgers ground in house.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
The Eagle's DareDowntown · pub/tavernLarge bar and beer garden with craft cocktails and a bar-food menu that includes burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The Fork n CorkDowntown · pub/tavernConsistently cited by locals and reviews as one of Wilmington's best burgers; 8 oz patties on brioche with house-cut fries.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 8 burgers on menu
?
The German CafeDowntown · dinerCotton Exchange fixture since 1985 for schnitzel and wurst that also serves burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The Getaway Cafe and ProvisionsSouth Wilmington · fast casualSouthern-inspired daytime cafe and gourmet pantry in Riverlights Marina Village whose smashburger draws repeat praise (menu published only as an image).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The HarpDowntown · pub/tavernAuthentic Irish pub since 2010 with Guinness on draft, Sunday Irish brunch, and a well-loved pub burger.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
The HuskDowntown · pub/tavernDowntown Front Street sports bar serving burgers and bar food.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The Original Salt WorksMidtown · dinerOld-school diner serving Wilmington for over 50 years with cheap grilled-to-order chuck burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
The Peak Taphouse and KitchenSurf City · pub/tavernCraft-beer taphouse with a kitchen doing thin-crust pizza, sandwiches and well-reviewed burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The Purple Onion CafeShallotte · dinerShallotte community favorite serving pastries, breakfast and burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The Rooster and The CrowDowntown · pub/tavernRiverwalk Southern spot whose chuck-rib-brisket blend half-pounder ranks near the top of Stacker's Wilmington burger ratings.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
The Spot Bar & KitchenCarolina Beach · pub/tavernScratch-made 'food-driven bar' open till midnight, known for black-and-red wings and its Spot Burger (menu not published online).AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
The TropicalCarolina Beach · pub/tavernThree-story Miami-inspired boardwalk bar with ocean views serving poke bowls, egg rolls and smash burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu
?
Tranquil Harbour Restaurant & BarOak Island · pub/tavernElevated-casual spot since 2016 serving Brunswick Catch local seafood, Angus steaks and bacon cheeseburgers at friendly prices.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
True Blue Butcher and BarrelDowntown · upscaleButcher shop, whiskey bar, and restaurant in one, famous for steaks and its $7 Wednesday smash burger night.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 1 burgers on menu
?
Two Guys GrillePorters Neck · fast casualLong-running Porters Neck casual grill serving hand-pattied old-fashioned burgers and hearty plates at neighborhood prices.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Uncle Louie's Pizza LoungeNorth Wilmington · pub/tavernMurrayville pizza-and-wings lounge with a full bar that also runs a five-deep lineup of 8 oz burgers.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 5 burgers on menu
?
VOYCE BistroDowntown · upscaleChef Keith Rhodes's intimate bistro serving casual coastal cuisine with Caribbean and Pan-African flavors.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Whiskey Trail at The CreekSouth Wilmington · pub/tavernMasonboro Loop sister location running the same 15-burger pub menu since 2009.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Whiskey Trail Pub & Grill (Midtown)North Wilmington · pub/tavernNeighborhood sports pub off Market St near Avalon (former Dig & Dive/Courts & Sports site) with a 13-burger lineup and $3-off burger Thursdays.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 13 burgers on menu
?
Whiskey Trail Pub & Grill MidtownMidtown · pub/tavernSouthern-twist sports pub with roughly 15 burger options plus wings and whiskey.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
White Front Breakfast HouseMidtown · dinerBeloved no-frills diner dating to 1947 with old-fashioned lunch-counter burgers until 2pm.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 2 burgers on menu
?
Winnie's TavernSouth Wilmington · pub/tavernFamily-run dive since 1962 that locals routinely call Wilmington's best burger; the Trailer Park Burger was featured on Cooking Channel's Best Thing I Ever Ate.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 6 burgers on menu
?
Wrightsville Beach BreweryMidtown · breweryLocals praise the signature Brewburger on a pretzel bun with gourmet toppings like house-made pimento cheese and avocado.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 4 burgers on menu
?
YoSake Downtown LoungeDowntown · upscaleSecond-floor pan-Asian sushi lounge that fields a creative burger during Burger Week.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION
?
Zeke SmashDowntown · fast casualOpened late 2025 with reviewers calling it the best smashburger they've had; a share of profits goes to childhood cancer charities.AWAITING FIRST INSPECTION · 3 burgers on menu