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Best Casual Restaurants in Kure Beach, NC

 Natalie profile picture NatalieDec 26, 2023

Explore diverse dining near Kure Beach with options ranging from a laid-back eatery providing ocean views and classic breakfast fare to an Italian-inspired family-oriented grill. Indulge in beachfront dining with coastal cuisine and tropical cocktails or savor mouthwatering hot dogs at a seaside gem on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Complete the culinary journey with classic American comfort food, sustainable seafood delights, and a personalized sushi experience, offering a delightful array of flavors for every taste. Here are our top choices:

Ocean View Restaurant

Photo courtesy of Ocean View Restaurant

  • Distance from Wander Kure Beach: 1.4 miles 

  • Location: 101 K Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 28449

  • Hours: 7AM-1:30PM Wednesday-Monday; Closed Tuesday 

  • Phone: (910) 458-8778

  • Website: https://www.facebook.com/OVKB22 

Just a stone's throw from the ocean, this laid-back eatery provides breathtaking views as you enjoy a menu featuring breakfast and brunch classics. Indulge in favorites like breakfast sandwiches, avocado toast, BLT with a fried egg and avocado, pancakes, omelets, fried chicken, seafood platters, and grilled cheese.

Freddie's Restaurant

Photo courtesy of Freddie's Restaurant

  • Distance from Wander: Kure Beach 1.4 miles

  • Location: 105 K Avenue, Kure Beach, NC 28449

  • Hours: 4:30PM-9PM Monday-Saturday; Closed Sunday 

  • Phone: (910) 458-5979

  • Website: https://freddiesitalianrestaurant.com/ 

Opened in 1995, Freddie’s is a family-oriented, Italian bar and grill serving a variety of dishes. From appetizers like fried calamari and stuffed mushroom caps to pasta entrees such as lasagna and mushroom ravioli, along with chicken, seafood, veal, and grill options, there's a diverse menu to satisfy various tastes. Desserts like limoncello cake and tiramisu provide a sweet conclusion to your dining experience, making Freddie’s a cherished local spot for Italian cuisine.

Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar

Photo courtesy of Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar

  • Distance from Wander Kure Beach: 2.8 miles

  • Location: 1211 Lake Park Blvd S, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

  • Hours: 11AM-10PM daily 

  • Phone: (910) 707-0049

  • Website: https://www.oceangrilltiki.com/ 

Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar, located in Carolina Beach, North Carolina, offers a delightful beachfront dining experience with fresh coastal cuisine and scenic ocean views. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu featuring items like crab dip, peel + eat shrimp, salads, sandwiches, tacos, and other entrees. The Tiki Bar, situated on the remnants of the Center Pier, provides a casual spot to savor tropical cocktails and cold beer while basking in the sea breeze after a day at the beach. With its perfect location, panoramic views, and a variety of dining options, Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar is an ideal destination to relax with friends and family.

Tip: The restaurant closes for the month of January and reopens in February. 

Nauti Dog

Photo courtesy of Nauti Dog

  • Distance from Wander Kure Beach: 3.7 miles

  • Location: 5 Cape Fear Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

  • Hours: 11AM-9PM Wednesday-Monday; Closed Tuesday (Hours vary seasonally*)

  • Phone: (910) 636-3453

  • Website: https://www.nautidogcb.com/ 

Indulge in a culinary adventure at Nauti Dog, a seaside gem located on the enchanting Carolina Beach Boardwalk. Beyond its reputation for crafting mouthwatering hot dogs, this specialty restaurant boasts a full bar, indoor and outdoor seating, and even Prosecco on tap for a touch of elegance. For those seeking variety, Nauti Dog offers "build your own dogs" daily and hosts a weekly "Mini Monday" event, ensuring every visit is a delightful exploration of their diverse and delicious offerings, including salads, sandwiches, deconstructed bowls, and a tempting array of vegan and gluten-free options. With live music most weekends, Nauti Dog is not just a hot dog joint; it's a year-round destination where freshness, flavor, and fun converge.

Tip: For those with dietary restrictions, the menu also highlights gluten-free, soy-free, and kosher Beyond Brat— a 100% plant-based protein delight.

Soul Flavor

Photo courtesy of Soul Flavor

  • Distance from Wander Kure Beach: 4.1 miles

  • Location: 716 N Lake Park Blvd, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

  • Hours: 4PM-9:30PM daily 

  • Phone: (910) 707-1113

  • Website: https://www.soulflavorcbnc.com/ 

Featuring classic American comfort food and cocktails in a laid-back bar setting, Soul Flavor’s menu offers a variety of starters like deviled eggs and flash fried oyster rockefeller. Enjoy salads such as brick house chop salad or sunset roasted beet salad. Choose from an array of sandwiches like The burger royale or tio Joe's tacos. For dinner, savor our catch of the day or bourbon braised baby back ribs. Complete your meal with sides such as mac & cheese or hoppin' john. Our diverse menu ensures a delightful dining experience for all tastes.

Shuckin' Shack

Photo courtesy of Shuckin' Shack

Discover a laid-back, family-friendly haven for seafood enthusiasts at the First Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar. Established in 2007 on the Carolina Coast, this no-frills setting invites you to savor steamed and raw shellfish, wings, and beers. From the signature cold crab dip to the mouthwatering wild American shrimp and inventive samplers with fresh and steamed oysters,  every dish is crafted with a commitment to quality and sustainability. Immerse yourself in the beach vibe and passion for fresh, flavorful seafood that defines the Shuckin’ Shack experience.

Tip: Check out the daily happy hour specials for deals like half-priced appetizers and $1.50 oysters. 

Nikki's Gourmet & Sushi

Photo courtesy of Nikki's Gourmet & Sushi

  • Distance from Wander Kure: 3.6 miles

  • Location: 6 Lake Park Blvd S, Carolina Beach, NC 28428

  • Hours: 4PM-9PM Monday-Wednesday; 11AM-9PM Thursday & Sunday; 11AM-10PM Friday & Saturday 

  • Phone: (910) 707-0802

  • Website: https://nikkisgourmetandsushibar.com/ 

Indulge in the innovative and personalized culinary experience at Nikki's Restaurant, where a highly experienced chef curates the best-tasting menu, featuring customized sushi selections with unique and fresh toppings.


The coastal flavors of Kure Beach will leave you wanting more. There's something for everybody so the eating expeditions are endless. But if you're ever overwhelmed by all these options, don't hesitate to reach out to your 24/7 Wander Concierge who will help you with planning ever step of your trip to Wander Kure Beach. Just reach out to them directly through the Wander app or send them a text at 737-377-3205. We can't wait to have you!

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