Wilmington, North Carolina, a charming city known for its historic waterfront and southern hospitality, is also home to a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. While you may expect to find local seafood and Southern comfort food, Wilmington surprises with an array of international flavors from all corners of the world. If you’re a food lover in search of something extraordinary, you’ll find that Wilmington has a treasure trove of exotic restaurants ready to transport your tastebuds to faraway lands.
From Mediterranean coastlines to the far reaches of Asia, these restaurants bring the world’s flavors to Wilmington, each with their own twist on authentic dishes. Whether you’re a daring eater seeking a new adventure or a casual diner looking to expand your culinary horizons, Wilmington’s exotic restaurants promise an experience unlike any other.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the city’s most exotic dining destinations. Prepare to savor a journey around the globe with these unforgettable meals!
1. Manna – A Mediterranean Culinary Paradise in the Heart of Wilmington
Location: 123 Princess St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Overview
Nestled in the heart of downtown Wilmington, Manna offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu that feels like a love letter to the flavors of the coastal regions. With an atmosphere that feels both intimate and refined, Manna promises a unique dining experience, whether you’re sitting inside their elegant dining room or enjoying the breezy outdoors on their patio. Every dish tells a story, rich in culture and full of depth, making it one of the most exotic dining options in the city.
The moment you step inside, the aroma of grilled lamb and fresh herbs fills the air, and the sight of vibrant plates laden with fresh vegetables, seafood, and perfectly cooked meats makes your mouth water. The ambiance is warm and inviting, with rustic décor that feels like it belongs in a sun-drenched village by the Aegean Sea.
Signature Dishes
- Mussels in White Wine: These tender, juicy mussels bathe in a light white wine and garlic sauce, accented with fresh parsley and served with crispy bread. This dish is a metaphorical journey to the shores of Greece with every bite.
- Braised Lamb Shank: Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is the very definition of melt-in-your-mouth. The tender lamb falls off the bone, soaked in a rich, flavorful sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours on a warm Mediterranean evening.
- Grilled Octopus: Grilled to perfection, the octopus is tender yet slightly crispy on the edges, served with a citrusy dressing that transports your senses straight to the Greek Isles.
Price Range
- Appetizers: $10–$20
- Entrées: $25–$45
- Desserts: $8–$12
Reservation Tips
- Book Early: Manna is often packed, especially on weekends, so reservations are highly recommended. You can reserve a table through OpenTable here.
- Look for Specials: Keep an eye on their website or social media for seasonal specials and prix-fixe menus that can offer more for your money.
- Private Dining: Manna offers private dining options for special events. Book well in advance if you’re planning a larger gathering.
2. The Mediterranean Diet – A Cozy Corner for a Taste of Greece
Location: 2010 Eastwood Rd, Wilmington, NC 28403
Overview
The Mediterranean Diet is a hidden gem in Wilmington, offering a truly authentic Greek dining experience. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels more like dining in a small Greek taverna than in the middle of North Carolina. The owner, originally from Greece, has infused every detail of the restaurant with his homeland’s rich culinary traditions, from the decor to the carefully curated menu. You’re in for a treat that’s as comforting as a warm hug on a cold day.
The restaurant is charming and intimate, with its rustic wooden tables, whitewashed walls, and sun-drenched color palette. It’s as if the Mediterranean sun itself has come to settle in Wilmington.
Signature Dishes
- Souvlaki Platter: This traditional Greek dish comes with marinated and grilled chicken, lamb, or pork, served with warm pita, creamy tzatziki sauce, and a refreshing Greek salad. Each bite of this dish is like stepping into the warm Mediterranean breeze—simple, fresh, and unforgettable.
- Moussaka: Layers of ground lamb, eggplant, and béchamel sauce are baked together in this savory, comforting dish. It’s the ultimate indulgence—a luxurious Mediterranean comfort food that you’ll want to savor until the last bite.
- Baklava: The perfect dessert to cap off your meal, this flaky, honey-drenched pastry is filled with crushed nuts and served with a side of Greek yogurt. It’s sweet, sticky, and rich—just like the warmth of the Mediterranean sun.
Price Range
- Appetizers: $7–$15
- Entrées: $20–$30
- Desserts: $5–$8
Reservation Tips
- Off-Peak Hours: To avoid the long wait times during dinner rush, try to visit for lunch or early dinner.
- Join the Loyalty Program: The Mediterranean Diet has a customer loyalty program offering discounts and perks for frequent diners. Make sure to ask about it during your visit.
- Group Reservations: If you’re dining with a group, call ahead to ensure you get a table that fits everyone comfortably.
3. Indochine – A Journey to Southeast Asia in Wilmington
Location: 7 N Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401
Overview
If you’re craving the bold, aromatic flavors of Southeast Asia, look no further than Indochine. This enchanting restaurant transports diners to a faraway land with its vibrant décor, infused with rich colors and intricate carvings that evoke the beauty and mystery of Asia. The restaurant serves a wide range of authentic dishes, inspired by the culinary traditions of Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Every dish is a medley of flavors—spicy, tangy, savory, and sweet—that bring the spices of Southeast Asia to your plate.
The atmosphere at Indochine is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re sitting in the lush, tropical garden patio or inside surrounded by the warm glow of lanterns, you’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to the heart of Southeast Asia.
Signature Dishes
- Thai Green Curry: This fragrant and spicy curry comes loaded with vegetables, chicken, or shrimp, all simmered in a rich coconut milk broth. It’s a perfect representation of the balancing act of flavors that Thai cuisine does so well—hot, sweet, and savory, all in one bite.
- Lemongrass Chicken: Grilled to perfection, this dish features tender chicken marinated in aromatic lemongrass and served with a side of jasmine rice. Each bite is like a burst of sunshine, with the citrusy zest of lemongrass cutting through the richness of the chicken.
- Vietnamese Pho: A fragrant broth made from simmered beef bones, pho is served with thin slices of beef, rice noodles, and fresh herbs. This dish is a comforting, warming hug in a bowl—perfect for those cooler Wilmington nights.
Price Range
- Appetizers: $8–$15
- Entrées: $18–$35
- Desserts: $6–$12
Reservation Tips
- Order Ahead for Takeout: If you’re on a tight schedule or want to take your meal to go, Indochine offers a convenient takeout service. Call ahead to place your order and skip the wait.
- Check for Special Events: Indochine often hosts special nights with live music or themed events. Make sure to check their website here or social media for updates.
- Book a Table for Large Groups: Indochine is a popular choice for group dining, so reservations are essential for larger parties. Be sure to call ahead, especially during holidays or weekends.
4. El Cerro – A Taste of Mexico’s Coastal Paradise
Location: 4221 Oleander Dr, Wilmington, NC 28403
Overview
For those in the mood for exotic flavors from south of the border, El Cerro is the ultimate destination. Situated along Oleander Drive, this lively Mexican restaurant serves up the bold, fresh, and spicy flavors of the Mexican coast. El Cerro prides itself on its ability to bring the vibrant energy of Mexico’s coastal regions to Wilmington, offering dishes that are as beautiful as they are flavorful. With colorful decor and a festive atmosphere, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to a sunny beach in Mexico.
Signature Dishes
- Coastal Fish Tacos: Grilled fish topped with a refreshing mango salsa and creamy chipotle sauce, these tacos are a delightful explosion of flavors—perfectly spicy, tangy, and fresh all at once.
- Chiles Rellenos: These poblano peppers are stuffed with cheese and smothered in a rich tomato sauce, offering a savory, comforting dish that’s as rich and flavorful as a Mexican sunset.
- Margaritas: El Cerro’s margaritas are a showstopper. Made with fresh lime and top-shelf tequila, they’re the perfect way to kick back and relax while enjoying your meal.
**Price
Range**
- Appetizers: $6–$15
- Entrées: $12–$20
- Desserts: $5–$8
Reservation Tips
- Happy Hour Deals: El Cerro offers happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers, so try to time your visit during those hours to save money.
- Check the Specials Board: The restaurant frequently offers seasonal specials that are worth trying, so make sure to ask about them.
- Weekend Crowds: El Cerro can get crowded, especially on weekends. If you’re planning to visit during peak hours, consider making a reservation through their website here.
Wilmington’s exotic dining scene offers a delicious passport to some of the world’s most tantalizing cuisines. From the sun-kissed Mediterranean flavors of Manna to the spicy, tangy dishes at Indochine, and the vibrant, colorful plates at El Cerro, these restaurants let you explore global flavors without ever leaving Wilmington.
By carefully selecting where to dine and planning your visit with the tips provided, you’ll be able to indulge in these culinary treasures and enjoy an unforgettable dining experience. So, pack your appetite, come hungry, and let Wilmington’s exotic restaurants transport you on a journey through the world’s most flavorful regions!
