rxpeachesThe port city of Wilmington, North Carolina is not short of culinary delights. With a thriving downtown and busy beach community to feed, not to mention the swathes of tourists who pour in throughout the year, WilmingtonÕs restaurants are in big demand and the selection grows by the year.

Whatever your preference for eating out, Wilmington has you covered. ThereÕs everything from fresh catch seafood, to authentic Mexican, Thai, Indian, French and Italian restaurants to choose from. They source the best local ingredients and have menus that not only change with the seasons, but are constantly evolving to keep things interesting.

Here at Tidal Creek weÕre champions of locally owned businesses. We believe Wilmington, like all great cities, is built on the hard work and creativity of its local community, and we never miss a chance to highlight the very best in whatÕs on offer. With that in mind, here is the ultimate list of locally owned restaurants in the ILM.

Boca Bay

An alluring sight from Eastwood Road, WilmingtonÕs corridor to Wrightsville Beach, Boca Bay is a big local favorite and never fails to serve up a high-quality menu of fresh local seafood. With outdoor seating for those warm summer nights, Boca Bay also has a reputation for its dazzling array of high-end cocktails.

The restaurant is one of a Wilmington collection owned by Ash Aziz and is the perfect spot for everything from a romantic date night, to a relaxed gathering of friends and family. Be sure to make a reservation though, as Boca Bay is one of the most popular venues in Wilmington.

Tidal Creek Co-op CafŽ

It doesnÕt get any more local than Tidal CreekÕs popular CafŽ on Oleander Drive. With dishes made from the freshest local ingredients, and a great selection of organic and all-natural menu options, the CafŽ at Tidal Creek is open from 8am through 8.30pm every day.

Ultimate List of Locally Owned Restaurants in Wilmington

You can eat in, on Tidal CreekÕs community deck, or take out at your convenience. The really great news is Tidal CreekÕs Co-op CafŽ caters too, so you can source a great platter of delicious local food for any occasion. Tidal Creek has been locally owned for 32 years and grown into a Wilmington institution.

RX Restaurant and Bar 

A relatively new addition to WilmingtonÕs dining scene, RX opened downtown in 2012 and has quickly built a fine reputation for its delicious take on contemporary southern soul food.

YouÕll find everything from crispy buffalo pig ears, to maple smoked fish pate, Denver steak and NC Duck on the ever-evolving menu at RX. Every night thereÕs a different selection, which is why the loyal patrons keep on going back for more. If youÕre looking for something downtown and a little bit different, RX has got you covered.

CevicheÕs

Hunter Tiblier grew up in Panama and has decided to bring a flavor of Central America to Wilmington in the form of the highly-rated CevicheÕs on Wrightsville Avenue, which he opened with his wife Laura.

Ultimate list of locally owned restaurants in Wilmington

CevicheÕs promises a, Òfresh take on fish,Ó and diners wonÕt be disappointed by the delicious selection of mouthwatering dishes on the menu. A great spot to eat and enjoy a relaxed drink or two with friends, CevicheÕs is fast becoming one of WilmingtonÕs hottest destinations.

Brasserie du Soleil

Another great spot owned by Ash Aziz (see Boca Bay above), Brasserie du Soleil serves up a relaxed take on French cuisine in one the best dining atmospheres youÕll find in Wilmington. Make a stop in at any time during the week and youÕll find a restaurant buzzing with enthusiastic diners having a great time and enjoying some great food.

The menu includes everything from mussels to delectable mini burgers, and you canÕt fail to be won over by the dessert samplers that follow. Those partial to a glass of wine have found the perfect location here.

Looking to grab a bite to eat at a locally owned restaurant? Download our menu and stop by today! Support local.Co-op Cafe March MenuSources: http://wbceviche.com/,  http://www.rxwilmington.com/