Two local restaurants join the MICHELIN Guide's recommended selection, with manna ave. 123's founder earning a MICHELIN award for wine service
WILMINGTON, N.C. (Oct. 26, 2026) — Wilmington, N.C.’s culinary scene has earned its first-ever recognition in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide American South, an internationally renowned guide to exceptional dining. Two local establishments, manna ave. 123 and Salita Pizza & Soft Serve, are among 31 restaurants newly added to the guide’s recommended selection for 2026, which recognizes quality cooking and memorable meals.
In addition, manna ave. 123 Founder William Mellon received the 2026 MICHELIN Guide American South Sommelier Award, recognizing his wine expertise and service that elevates the dining experience. Selected through anonymous evaluations by MICHELIN Guide inspectors, these honors put Wilmington’s culinary talent on an international stage.
Since opening in 2010, downtown Wilmington’s manna ave. 123 has built a reputation for creative cuisine that highlights quality ingredients and seasonal flavors. The restaurant’s extensive wine program, led by Mellon, features more than 800 selections and a cellar of approximately 8,000 bottles. A self-taught sommelier, Mellon emphasizes exploring wines from diverse regions and creating thoughtful pairings that complement the establishment’s cuisine.
Located in Wilmington’s Cargo District, Salita Pizza puts a creative spin on wood-fired pizza, pairing classic favorites with inventive flavor combinations. Its laid-back atmosphere and distinctive approach make it a standout addition to Wilmington’s local restaurant scene.
“Wilmington’s culinary landscape continues to give visitors compelling reasons to explore our community,” said Kim Hufham, president and CEO of the New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority. “This recognition for manna ave. 123 and Salita Pizza marks an exciting milestone for Wilmington, highlighting the creativity and quality that make our local restaurants an important part of the visitor experience.”
To plan a visit to Wilmington and its island beaches and discover more of the area’s local flavors, visit WilmingtonAndBeaches.com.
Salita Pizza in the Cargo District - Photo by Jason Frye
About Wilmington and Beaches CVB
The New Hanover County Tourism Development Authority [TDA], d/b/a Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau [CVB], markets and develops the county and its communities’ leisure and group travel experiences for economic growth and quality of place. Visit us online at WilmingtonAndBeaches.com.
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