When it comes to dining in Myrtle Grove Southeast, locals know they’ve struck gold. Nestled just south of Wilmington, this neighborhood has blossomed from a modest residential suburb into a true foodie destination. Whether you’re seeking family-run classics, inventive food trucks, or that perfect morning pastry, Myrtle Grove Southeast serves up an array of flavors, price points, and welcoming atmospheres that make you want to come back for seconds. Here’s your definitive guide to the neighborhood’s standout eats—from Seabreeze Road to Carolina Beach Road, and everywhere in between.
Classic Eats with Southern Soul
Southern hospitality is alive and well in Myrtle Grove Southeast, and a handful of long-standing restaurants make sure nobody leaves hungry.
- Casey’s Buffet & BBQ (5559 Oleander Dr)
Famous for its all-you-can-eat buffet, Casey’s serves up down-home barbecue, fried chicken, collards, and banana pudding. Friendly service and old-school recipes make it a weekly staple for many locals. Price: $10-$20 per person.
- Smithfield’s Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q (7300 Carolina Beach Rd)
A regional mini-chain, Smithfield’s wins hearts with its tender pulled pork, hushpuppies, and crispy fried chicken. Ideal for no-fuss family dinners and take-out picnics under the live oaks. Price: $8-$15.
Café Culture and Breezy Brunches
Looking for that ideal spot for a morning coffee, a weekend brunch, or simply a sweet bakery treat? Myrtle Grove Southeast has you covered.
- The Peachy Keen Café (6324 Carolina Beach Rd)
Tucked into a cozy strip mall, Peachy Keen is a locals’ favorite for their “Surf City Benny” eggs Benedict and honey lavender lattes. Their lemon poppyseed muffins sell out fast, so come early! Price: $5-$15.
- Morning Vision Bakery (near Monkey Junction, 5515 Carolina Beach Rd)
Just north of the Southeast boundary toward Monkey Junction, this indie bakery is worth the short drive. Think soft cinnamon rolls, flaky croissants, gluten-free delights, and friendly baristas who remember your name. Price: $3-$8.
Global Flavors: Ethnic Eats and International Gems
The melting pot of Myrtle Grove Southeast shines through with a surprising array of international restaurants that bring the world to your plate.
- Maria’s Taqueria Truck (usually parked at 6500 block of Carolina Beach Rd)
This family-run food truck brings bold Mexican flavors, offering everything from street tacos to homemade tamales. Don’t miss their spicy birria tacos with consomé. Most items under $10.
- Saigon Bistro (6400 Carolina Beach Rd)
A top pick for Vietnamese comfort food, Saigon Bistro’s pho and bánh mì have a loyal local following. Their spring rolls are fresh and packed with herbs, the perfect start to any meal. Price: $8-$14.
- Tokyo 101 Express (6013 Oleander Dr)
Serving fresh sushi, classic hibachi, and lunchtime rice bowls, Tokyo 101 is great for a quick bite that’s a cut above typical Japanese take-out. Price: $10-$18.
Seafood Shacks and Waterside Eats
Myrtle Grove’s proximity to the Intracoastal Waterway and Carolina beaches means exceptional seafood is never far away.
- Fish Bites Sea Food Restaurant (6132 Carolina Beach Rd)
Don’t let the unassuming exterior fool you—Fish Bites has some of the freshest seafood in the area. Locals rave about their crab cakes, shrimp po’ boys, and rotating daily specials. There’s a cozy, nautical interior and a bustling lunch scene. Price: $12-$25.
- Seaview Crab Company Takeout (6458 Carolina Beach Rd)
This seafood market and to-go counter offers everything from peel-and-eat shrimp to fish sandwiches. Order at the counter, grab a picnic table outside, and enjoy a true taste of the coast. Price: $8-$16.
Sweet Treats and Dessert Destinations
No food guide is complete without dessert, and Myrtle Grove Southeast shines with ice cream shops, bakeries, and more.
- Boombalatti’s Homemade Ice Cream (Coming soon to Southeast location at Carolina Beach Rd)
Already beloved around Wilmington, Boombalatti’s offers rich, creative scoops like Cookie Monster and Salted Caramel. Their upcoming location promises to be a game-changer for the sweets scene here. Price: $4-$8.
- Let’s Do Cake (Mobile bakery, rotating locations on College Rd and Carolina Beach Rd)
This whimsical bakery-on-wheels delights with custom cupcakes, brownies, and fun seasonal treats. Follow them on social for their next pop-up.
Neighborhood Favorites and Hidden Gems
Some of the best bites in Myrtle Grove Southeast are hiding in plain sight. Here are a few of our favorite under-the-radar stops:
- Pho Vui (Corner of Carolina Beach Rd and Sanders Rd)
Tiny dining room, big flavor! Pho Vui’s broth simmers for hours, packing in layers of flavor. Their lemongrass chicken is another house specialty.
- Captain M’s Seafood (7910 Carolina Beach Rd, near Myrtle Grove Rd intersection)
Captain M’s flies under the radar but is a go-to for hearty fried seafood baskets, hushpuppies, and slaw. Locals love it for both dine-in and quick take-out.
Food Truck Fridays and Local Traditions
Once the weather turns warm, Myrtle Grove Southeast’s parks and brewery parking lots come alive with food truck “rodeos” and community cookouts. The best way to try a variety of local flavors? Cruise through the parking lot of Waterline Brewing Co. or check for rotating trucks at The Venue at Wilmington Brewing Company. From wood-fired pizzas to Caribbean jerk chicken, the food truck scene keeps evolving—follow local social media for schedules!
The Heart of Myrtle Grove Southeast’s Food Scene
What truly sets Myrtle Grove Southeast apart isn’t just the variety—it’s the people behind the food. Many of the chefs, bakers, and pitmasters you’ll meet are local families or transplants drawn here by the promise of ocean breezes and friendly faces. Don’t be shy—ask about specials, try something new, and you’ll likely leave with a recommendation for your next meal. Whether you’re itching for barbecue, craving international fare, or on a quest for the best doughnut, Myrtle Grove Southeast always delivers a delicious answer.