Wilmington is home to a vibrant dining scene where sustainability and fresh seafood go hand in hand. From oyster farms to partnerships with local fishermen, these restaurants are committed to serving the best of the coast while also supporting environmentally friendly practices. Here are some top spots in Wilmington to enjoy delicious, sustainable seafood.
Rx Chicken & Oysters – Rx Chicken & Oysters redefines the sea-to-table concept with a hands-on, sustainable approach. The restaurant holds commercial fishing and dealer licenses, allowing it to catch and spear its own fish. Dedicated to environmental stewardship, Rx prioritizes underutilized species and is helping combat the invasive lionfish by transforming this reef-damaging predator into a culinary specialty.
In June 2022, Rx launched its oyster farming operation, producing its signature Lucy Bea oysters, named after the owners’ saltwater-loving dogs. This operation now includes harvesting wild mussels and oysters and farming clams, further supporting local ecosystems and the community.
Guided by the seasons and committed to supporting organic, sustainable farmers and fishermen, Rx ensures its menu evolves with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Seabird – At Seabird, Chef Dean Neff, a 2024 James Beard outstanding chef finalist, celebrates the seasonality of seafood with a menu crafted from the finest ingredients found along the North Carolina coast. By partnering with local, small-scale fishermen and aquaculture producers, Seabird emphasizes oysters and shellfish caught through sustainable practices and responsible farming methods. Each dish inventively reflects Wilmington’s local flavors, including the seasonal seafood tower, which features pickled shrimp, deviled catfish, oyster escabeche, and smoked speckled sea trout with bottarga crème fraîche, to name a few.
Three10 – Located in a beautifully restored historic home in the Brooklyn Arts District, Three10 is a family-owned restaurant dedicated to sustainable dining. Seafood takes center stage to highlight the region's natural bounty, from the raw bar selections to inventive small and large plates. The menu changes with the seasons and also highlights rotating classic cocktails, organic wines and drafts.
PinPoint – PinPoint showcases the freshest offerings from Wilmington’s farmers, fishermen, oystermen and shrimpers. This elegantly casual restaurant offers a farm-to-table dinner menu that changes daily featuring the best local ingredients. By partnering with small-scale producers, PinPoint ensures each dish reflects the coast's vibrant flavors, traditions and seasons.
Catch – Redefining coastal dining, Catch blends modern seafood cuisine with international inspiration. Chef Keith Rhodes, a former Top Chef contestant and James Beard finalist for Best Chef Southeast, consciously gathers every ingredient from organic growers and local fisheries that prioritize sustainable practices. Each dish reflects his creativity as he transforms local ingredients into unforgettable flavors like the baked dirty oysters with jerk collards, bacon and pimento cheese.
Whether sourcing local oysters or building strong relationships with fishermen and farmers, each restaurant helps protect our coast through sustainable seafood practices and provides environmentally conscious dining options.
