Wilmington’s Prime Breakfasts at Great Prices You Must Try

706 N 4th St, Wilmington

(910) 399-1676

Brooklyn Cafe is my go-to spot for an amazing breakfast in Wilmington. The donuts are hands down the best I've ever tasted, especially the vegan ones that melt in your mouth. They're made fresh to order, and it only takes about 3-5 minutes. We tried the lemon and vanilla flavors, and they were absolutely delicious. Their local coffee is incredible too, with oat milk as a nice option. The customer service is top-notch, with staff who are both friendly and knowledgeable. I'm eager to try their beignets next time. The cafe has a cute vibe, and I loved spending time there. We ordered an Old Willie, a Chai, a plain donut, a glazed donut, and a lemon donut, all of which were perfect, especially when served warm and fresh. The Texas-style Kolaches are a must-try; they’re the best outside of Texas. Service is laid-back, so it’s great to sit back, relax, and maybe indulge in an extra donut or two. Always a worthwhile experience.

1930 Eastwood Rd #105, Wilmington

(910) 679-8881

Spoonfed Kitchen & Bake Shop is a gem for breakfast in Wilmington! From the moment you walk in, the inviting atmosphere and friendly staff make you feel right at home. The menu is diverse, offering a great mix of hearty and healthy options. The Belgian waffles are absolutely a must-try; they're fluffy, golden, and have just the right amount of sweetness. The homemade quiche of the day showcases fresh, local ingredients, and you can taste the difference. They even offer convenient take-home options like mac n cheese and pulled pork, perfect for those busy days when cooking from scratch isn't an option. The quality and care that go into every dish are evident, making it a go-to spot for a satisfying breakfast. Highly recommended for both locals and visitors!

3534 Oleander Dr, Wilmington

(910) 363-0639

First Watch in Wilmington is a fantastic spot for breakfast. The decor is super cute, embodying all the Wilmington and NC beach southern charm. The food was great, with excellent presentation. Service was top-notch, and the potatoes were out of this world. I loved all the healthy options on the menu! The warm syrup and amazing jam with the toast were delightful. The server recommended the breakfast tacos and lemon ricotta pancakes. While I found the pancakes just okay, both my mom and I were satisfied with our breakfast. The food was really good, and the portion sizes were just right. Prices are in line with other nearby dining spots. Everything was perfect, and I totally recommend this place.

4039 Masonboro Loop Rd, Wilmington

(910) 769-2349

I love a good hole-in-the-wall spot, and The Keg and Egg in Wilmington is just that. It's got good food without the hassle of big crowds. We tried the chicken parm and the chop cheese sammie, and even took home the Brutus and another chop cheese for later. The server was awesome and made us feel right at home. For Mother's Day, I brought my son's mom here, and even though it was packed, we didn't mind the wait. The service more than made up for it. The bartender was gracious and courteous. I ordered the steak and eggs, and it was hands down the best-seasoned steak I've had in a Wilmington restaurant in ages. The place is small but cozy, with charming old-school memorabilia on the walls. A return visit was a no-brainer. My husband and I have now been there twice, and whenever we're in the area, we make it a point to stop by. The food, service, and vibes are spot on. If I could give 10 stars, I would! Finally got back there and once again, the service didn't disappoint and the food was excellent. The chicken fried steak was a standout, and the sausage gravy was rich and flavorful. The hashbrown casserole was a bit sweet for my taste, but the eggs were perfectly cooked. You'd think eggs are hard to mess up, but it happens often elsewhere. There are still more menu items I'm eager to try. Highly recommend!

6301 Oleander Dr, Wilmington

(910) 350-0018

CASH ONLY!!!! Salt Works is a fantastic spot! I initially went there for lunch and was pleasantly surprised by the simple yet tasty menu. The BLT and fried bologna sandwich were both delicious, with plenty of French fries on the side. Service was prompt and attentive, making sure our drinks were always refilled and our meals arrived quickly and piping hot. I went on a Saturday and was impressed with both the food and the atmosphere. The grilled turkey breast sandwich special with fries was a delight. The waitresses were friendly and polite, and the option to dine inside or outside was a nice touch. The place has a cozy vibe, though it can feel a bit cramped, especially since I'm a bigger guy. Just be prepared with cash, which I found was the only downside, but it's understandable. Returning for breakfast was equally enjoyable. They serve breakfast until 10:45 on weekdays and 11:45 on Saturdays. The veggie omelette was fresh, and I loved that they buttered the toast—such a small detail but often overlooked. The coffee was piping hot, a rare and much-appreciated treat! Lunch didn't disappoint either, with the limabean soup with onions being a standout and a perfectly cooked cheeseburger with fresh condiments. Can't wait to go back!

1035 International Dr, Wilmington

(910) 548-7760

I've been to First Watch in Wilmington a couple of times for breakfast, and I absolutely love the healthy variety they offer! The food is excellent, with some unique and delightful options that aren't just the usual French toast or pancakes. I tried the pancakes, and they were divine. I've also had the oatmeal with fruit and a blueberry muffin, along with the Trifecta featuring two eggs, bacon, and a waffle—so delicious! The freshly squeezed juices, especially the orange juice, are a refreshing treat. The service is generally good, although there could be some improvements. The porch seating offers a nice ambiance, though it can get quite hot during the summer months. There's often a wait on weekends, so using the app to get on the list is a smart move and helps cut down the wait time. My first visit was a pleasant surprise, and the phenomenal food ensures I'll definitely be returning!

250 Racine Dr, Wilmington

(910) 523-5362

During my visit to Wilmington, NC, I spotted Blue Surf Café on Instagram and knew I had to try it for breakfast. The friendly and helpful young lady at the counter made a great first impression. We ordered our breakfast and found a table by the window. Unfortunately, the windowsill had some dead flies, so we switched to another table, which seemed a bit sticky. Despite these minor setbacks, the food presentation was fantastic. I had the banana foster spiced waffle, which looked great, though I would have preferred the syrup on the side rather than drowning the waffle. My sister's shrimp bowl was beautifully presented, and she loved the well-seasoned shrimp. The café offers a nice, simple spot for breakfast, ending at noon, with an efficient order, pay, and service system. The location is nice, with open parking. I appreciated the quirky, charming décor, including the chalkboard menu and conservation education. We also tried the grilled chicken salad and potato hash bowl. The chicken was moist, though slightly overdressed, but overall, we enjoyed our meals. Blue Surf Café is reasonably priced, and the menu is displayed above the bar/entrance area, which is helpful because the place can get crowded around lunchtime. A heads up: they don't serve coffee, but the friendly staff and relaxed atmosphere make up for it. For dinner, we tried their burgers, fish, turkey, and chicken—all of which the family enjoyed. The kids loved their root beer floats for dessert. It's a fun, easygoing place and a good spot to eat in Wilmington.

1121 Military Cutoff Rd A, Wilmington

(910) 444-2990

Today, I brought my sister and my 1-year-old son to Vicious Biscuit in Wilmington for the first time, and I can confidently say we’ll be regulars from now on! From the moment we walked in, the service was fantastic. Despite a small mix-up with one of our plates, the staff was amazing and handled it beautifully. The experience was wonderful, and the food was top-notch. If you love biscuits and gourmet, chef-inspired southern recipes, this is the place for you. Although I'm not usually a fan of biscuits, my wife was eager to try it, and I'm so glad we did. We had the fried green tomatoes, huevos rancheros, the fat boy fried chicken pimento with hot honey, and the strawberry beignets. Each dish was clearly crafted with a top chef's touch and tasted superb. The service was exceptional, and everyone was super friendly, even though we were there toward the end of the morning. The place was clean, and the food was fantastic. While the seating could be more comfortable with some southern-style cushions, it didn’t detract from the experience. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but given the unique and delicious offerings, it’s well worth it. We also tried the biscuits and gravy with eggs on top, which were delicious. The gravy had excellent flavor, and the biscuits soaked it up perfectly. This is definitely a must-visit spot in Wilmington, and I’m already looking forward to trying more dishes.

1900 Eastwood Rd # 44, Wilmington

(910) 239-9258

Let me start by saying, this was amazing! I'm from Ohio and came to Wilmington to visit a friend. We decided to try Blueberry’s Grill for breakfast, and it was the perfect start to our beach day. We were lucky to get a seat on the patio without having to wait. Our server was wonderful—very friendly and attentive. She knew the menu well and recommended the blueberry hush puppies, which she said were a must-try. They were not overly sweet and just a delightful start to our meal. Both of us ordered breakfast dishes, and the portions were generous and satisfying. Everything we had was delicious. The atmosphere, service, and food were the best I've experienced in a while. It's definitely our new go-to spot whenever I'm in Wilmington. If you're planning to visit, I recommend getting on the waitlist beforehand. The blueberry hush puppies, tuna tartar tostada, and goat cheese grits are particularly noteworthy! Despite a couple of minor service hiccups I've experienced in the past, like meals taking a bit longer, the overall experience has always been positive. Sitting outside is delightful, especially with the heaters in winter. The atmosphere is inviting, and I'm so glad to have found an excellent breakfast spot in Wilmington. I can't wait to come back and try more from their menu.

319 N Front St, Wilmington

(910) 343-1050

My brother and I went to The Basics for brunch on Sunday, and I was genuinely impressed with everything I tasted. Not only did the dishes look great, but each one had a unique twist. For example, the meat in my brother's Southern Benedict had a subtle cola flavor that added the right touch of sweetness. My crab cake eggs Benedict was a pleasant surprise too, with a poached egg on a crab cake instead of the usual English muffin. I was totally blown away! I would definitely return to try out their lunch options. Just be ready for a wait. We chose this place based on its ratings and ended up enjoying our meal seated at the cozy 1950s-style counter. The service was friendly and efficient. My husband ordered the special of the day, which included an omelette with pork belly and a side of grit cakes with pimento cheese. He even called it a "culinary delight," and I couldn't help but agree after a taste. I opted for the oatmeal blueberry pancakes, and they were delicious. The atmosphere was lively and bright. On another trip with a friend, we both loved the food. I had the BLT on Texas toast with fried okra, while she had the crab cake sandwich with a side salad. We also tried the house mimosas, which were strong and delicious, especially with the blackberry juice twist. The service was good, and the atmosphere was comfortable, making it an excellent spot for lunch. Overall, this place is cute and amazing! The omelette was cooked perfectly with sautéed spinach, and the French toast was delicious without being too sweet. Our server was warm and attentive, and the rustic atmosphere made it easy to relax and enjoy our meal. I highly recommend The Basics for a perfect breakfast experience!

6800 Parker Farm Dr Unit #150, Wilmington

(910) 679-4075

We returned to Brunches for another visit and then another one after that, and each time was fantastic. They made my wife's birthday extra special by letting us start with drinks at the bar at 10:00 am. The menu is outstanding, and you can't go wrong with any choice. The Mac and cheese is a standout, and the Irish shot is superb. The drinks are excellent too. I had a great experience the first time I visited. Our waiter, Paul, was amazing—attentive, kind, and chatty. It was a perfect wrap-up for my bachelorette party in Wilmington. I'm obsessed with this place. We went for my Bach trip brunch, and our waitress was incredibly sweet, bringing out surprise gifts from the kitchen, including a pancake shaped like a ring—it was adorable. The food is fantastic, the customer service is top-notch, and the drinks are delightfully strong. The atmosphere is busy but enjoyable. My garden bowl was good, though I prefer my spinach cooked. I ordered an English muffin on the side for $3.50 and would have liked it toasted instead of grilled. Overall, Brunches is the best, and I can't help but love it every time I visit. ❤️

1611 Pavilion Pl, Wilmington

(910) 256-0115

This place is definitely a gem! We were in town for a sports tournament and looking for a good place to eat. We try to eat locally whenever possible, instead of doing chains, and we opted for this spot based on positive reviews. It did not disappoint! It's a cute little place with a down-home feel. The service and the food were very good. The prices are reasonable, and the portion sizes are generous. They were able to accommodate my son's gluten-free diet without any issues, including dessert. We are so glad we decided to give them a try and will definitely return next time we are in the area! The outdoor patio is lovely, with plenty of fans to beat the summer heat. The staff is friendly and accommodating, especially for large groups. The spicy Philly cheese is top-notch. There's plenty of parking, although it can be a challenge when busy, but it's worth it for the huge and delicious burgers and sandwiches. Don't miss the shrimp bisque—it’s highly recommended! We came in as a group of 4 and a baby and were seated at a good-sized table. Our waitress was friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about the menu. She didn't come by right after we got our food, and we wanted some additional condiments, but the overall experience was great. The shrimp and grits were delicious, definitely 5 stars, and I'd come back just for that. I also tried the corned beef hash, which was equally delicious! I was happy to see gluten-free bread on the menu as well. With such a large selection on the menu, it was hard to decide what to try. I got a side of bacon with my entrée, and it was perfectly cooked. The ranch dressing was outstanding too. We stopped in after spending a few hours at the beach, one of the few places that wasn't closing soon, so we didn't feel rushed. The staff was super friendly, and our server Erika was patient as we decided what to order. She brought us pretzel buns with tomato basil bisque while we waited for our food, which was a nice touch. Other staff members came over to check on us when Erika was busy, so we felt well taken care of. The food was exceptional. The steak was perfectly cooked, the ribs were fall-off-the-bone delicious, and the gyro was tasty. The chicken burger was cooked to order and filling. Our Cuban sandwiches were satisfying. You definitely get your money's worth here, with portions just right and no skimping. Definitely worth a visit. Next time we are in Wilmington, we will have to come back!

21 Van Campen Blvd, Wilmington

(910) 794-1162

During my husband's birthday-cation, we decided to stop at Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Wilmington for breakfast, and it turned out to be a delightful experience. The new menu is impressive! My husband enjoyed the country fried steak, while I savored grits and eggs alongside a French Toast latte. Our server, Shavonne, was exceptional, making our visit even more pleasant with her friendly and accommodating demeanor. The food was excellent, and despite a slight concern from my aunt about the portion size of the fish compared to the menu description, the overall experience was lovely, earning a solid 4 stars. Their pancakes are top-notch, offering great value for money. Although it gets busy on weekends, which can lead to a wait for food, this place remains my favorite breakfast spot. I miss it since we don't have one in my town anymore, but I'm eager to visit again. On another visit with a colleague, we opted for a budget-friendly breakfast of eggs and pancakes, which was not only plentiful but also cost-effective at just around 7 dollars per person. The staff's friendliness added to the positive experience. I would definitely recommend Cracker Barrel for a hearty, reasonably priced breakfast.

5309 College Rd, Wilmington

(910) 397-0110

Madison did an amazing job as our server at Waffle House in Wilmington. Our order was spot on and arrived quickly. The hash browns were perfectly crispy and hot, and the scrambled eggs were just right. We stopped by a little after midnight after work, feeling quite hungry, and the experience couldn't have been better. I ordered a steak and waffle while my husband went for the double cheeseburger and hash browns. Everything was delicious, especially the waffles—they’re fluffy and full of flavor, definitely "to die for." Plus, the value for the price was fantastic. Although there was a bit of a wait to be seated, it was well worth it. The service was quick and friendly, with a few laughs along the way. Our waitress, Candy, offered some of the best customer service we've experienced in a long time. The place was clean, the food was great, and the atmosphere was welcoming even at a late hour. We're so grateful for the good food and wonderful service. Thank you so much, everyone at Waffle House! God bless you. I wholeheartedly recommend this place to everyone!

3501 Oleander Dr, Wilmington

(910) 236-3033

Drift Cafe Hanover Center is a terrific spot for breakfast. I had the breakfast burritos, potatoes, and mushrooms, and all were fantastic. The potatoes came with a tasty dip, too. My wife loved the "giving" aesthetic of the place, which added to the incredible atmosphere with great music. The manager was attentive, ensuring we had an excellent experience. The interior is bright and welcoming, and the service was friendly. I also tried the Granola and Yogurt, which was the perfect portion for a quick breakfast, featuring Greek yogurt, walnut granola, and fresh berries drizzled with honey. Overall, this is consistently the best breakfast spot in Wilmington. Don’t listen to the negative reviews. The food, coffee, and presentation are top-notch. Highly recommend it!

1410 College Rd, Wilmington

(910) 313-2600

I visited the Waffle House in Wilmington for breakfast and had a fantastic experience. I ordered the ham, egg, and cheese hash brown bowl, and it was absolutely delicious! The staff was incredibly friendly when I went to pick up my order. It took only 8 minutes from placing my order online to having it ready for pickup, which was impressive. The restaurant was clean, which is always a plus. My husband took our four boys surfing this morning, and they were starving afterwards. We placed a large to-go order, and the team at Waffle House did an amazing job. Everything was perfect and packaged well. The staff was friendly and not at all bothered by our big order. We've always had great service at this location. I also had the nicest waitress during my visit. She suggested trying the waffle with blueberry and pecan filling, and it was the most filling waffle I've ever had. I couldn't even finish it all, but it was so delicious. I will definitely be a returning customer!

2448 Carolina Beach Rd, Wilmington

(910) 763-8337

I visited Waffle House in Wilmington for breakfast, and I was impressed by the clean and neat location and the friendly and helpful staff. The empty tables and bathroom were spotless. Our server was attentive and checked in with us frequently, making the experience even nicer. The food was cooked and presented perfectly, and everything tasted great. I particularly enjoyed the grits, although the toast was a bit salty, possibly due to the bacon. Regardless, the service was lovely, and I plan to try another dish next time, perhaps asking for no added salt. For my meal, I had two eggs over hard, two sausage patties, hash browns, two slices of buttered bread, a pecan waffle, and coffee. I was pleasantly surprised by the pecans in the waffle batter, which added a delightful crunch throughout. The coffee was a bit weak for my taste, especially at $2.50 for endless refills. My wife also had eggs over hard, a biscuit, bacon, and coffee. She found the coffee weak and preferred her bacon crispier. Despite the noise, which at times felt like dishes were breaking in the kitchen, our waitress did her best to accommodate everyone, although she seemed to have too many tables. Overall, I like Waffle House, and this visit was enjoyable, with expertly prepared food that brought back cherished memories. It's worth noting that prices have increased, and there's a 20% service charge for take-out orders, but I would certainly visit again. Well done, Waffle House! Cheers!