Everyone knows that the most popular attraction in Shallotte is, well, eating. And even though people might call it various incorrect names like “Shallot,” “Shallotville,” or “That Place Near the Coast,” it’s inevitable that you’re going to end up dining here someday. And, when there are folks debating fried shrimp versus grilled while someone’s playing classic rock on a porch, things get overwhelming fast.
But if you use this guide, you’ll see that it doesn’t have to be a spinning vortex of indecision. We’ve organized this by vibe and flavor, so you can plan your entire culinary crawl.
San Felipe
$ | (910) 755-7278 | WEBSITE
Arrive at this Mexican spot just as the lunch crowd starts to thin out around 1:30, and you’ll find the staff at San Felipe sizzling fajitas, wrapping burritos, and grilling tacos. Order a combination platter, and savor it in the lively atmosphere, especially if you catch a Margarita night. Everything is satisfying here, but the chicken fajitas are a must-try.
Lucca Italian Chophouse storefront picture
$$ | (910) 754-2334 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for Italian, go to Lucca Italian Chophouse. It’s a slightly upscale chophouse with homemade pasta on display, plenty of attentive servers, and a menu of authentic dishes that are both delicious and satisfying, like focaccia bread, chicken marsala, and spaghetti meatballs.
Roberto’s Ristorante
$$ | (910) 579-4999 | WEBSITE
You’re going to be tempted by the mac and cheese on the kids menu, but do you really want to settle for something simple when the crème brûlée made from Marie Antoinette’s coronation recipe is waiting? Get the bread with dipping oil and a house salad to start, and if you’re still hungry, order the shrimp with vodka cream sauce that takes time to prepare perfectly. Better ask for more bread while you wait.
It’s Just Wings
$$ | (469) 694-8153 | WEBSITE
For a very long time, the only wings you could get in town were from a generic chain that probably just reheated frozen patties. Now there’s It’s Just Wings’ generous portions in flavors like classic buffalo, honey barbecue, and garlic parmesan (our favorite). From the team behind quick takeout service, this juicy stuff is well worth almost missing the turn into that strip mall to get there. It’s textbook chicken wings, with a crispy exterior and tender interior.
Watch them pack the piping hot goods into your bag before a drive back home.
Jumpin Java Espresso Company, LLC
$ | (910) 754-5282 | WEBSITE
You’re going to need some caffeine to deal with the generic chain coffee shops that seem to multiply like rabbits. Skip the predictable corporate experience and head to Jumpin Java instead for a quality cup of coffee. Here, you’ll find classic coffee drinks and more exciting ones, like the German chocolate cake iced latte with its rich, decadent flavor. The lemon cake is a must-try, with a perfect lemony flavor that melts in your mouth.
The staff is friendly, courteous, and efficient, making every visit enjoyable in the cozy, neighborhood-friendly atmosphere where the sweets are baked fresh daily.
Wing & Fish Company
$ | (910) 754-9858 | WEBSITE
This rustic sports bar specializes in wings and seafood, and it’s satisfying to settle into one of their cozy booths among the soundtrack of game-day cheers and the sizzle of fresh fish hitting the grill. Expect a whirlwind of flavors like crispy wings with a variety of sauce options, perfectly seasoned shrimp, and homemade bleu cheese that won’t set you back too much money or take too much time out of your day.
And fish lovers, there are great options for you too—like fresh oysters, perfectly cooked fish, and shrimp that taste straight from the water.
Jersey Mike’s Subs
$ | (910) 754-3338 | WEBSITE
There are plenty of sandwich shops in this area that serve subs. But sometimes you just feel like grabbing something quick and satisfying, and we don’t blame you. (We blame busy schedules.) At Jersey Mike’s, you won’t wait long for a beautiful BLT with extra olive oil or other great subs with fresh ingredients. Everything tastes incredible, too, so you’ll probably make coworkers envious as you walk by with your paper-wrapped sandwich.
Chili’s Grill & Bar
$ | (910) 900-8866 | WEBSITE
Chili’s Grill & Bar is the most welcoming chain restaurant we know. The space is bright and open with comfortable booths, family-friendly decor, and plenty of room to move around. After settling into a spacious table, order from a menu that’s straightforward and reliable. It lists things like Big Mouth Bites, Smash Burgers, and kid-friendly options with activity sheets and cups with lids.
The service is consistently good, with courteous staff who make sure everything arrives hot and flavorful, even when the place is packed. Stop in here on a busy day with your family and it’ll be way more satisfying than anywhere else in Shallotte.
Tokyo Express
$ | (910) 754-2711 | WEBSITE
Maybe you’re not in Shallotte for a fancy dinner. Maybe you’re just passing through with the family after a long day. (Those kids aren’t going to feed themselves.) If that’s the case, you’ll need something hot and fast. Stop by Tokyo Express for a generous plate of teriyaki chicken with rice and vegetables or the filet and shrimp combo. Grab a comfy booth and enjoy while you decide which leftovers will make the best lunch tomorrow—because those portions are definitely going home with you.
Inlet View Bar & Grill
$$ | (910) 754-8439 | WEBSITE
Inlet View Bar & Grill has the best seafood with a view at Ocean Isle. It’s a welcoming spot that doubles as a family-friendly destination with live music and entertainment (think sports TVs on the upper level and musicians performing downstairs), and the shrimp here is outstanding. When it’s nice out, take advantage of the outdoor dining area, which has picnic tables and wonderful water views.
Chick-fil-A Shallotte
$ | (910) 722-9011 | WEBSITE
You’re here for one thing and one thing only: the crispy chicken sandwich. It comes perfectly cooked with pickles and a buttered bun, and there’s always the grilled option for a healthier choice, too. You might want to skip the side salad and go for a pile of those famous waffle fries with Chick-fil-A sauce. And a seasonal shake. And a spicy chicken cool wrap with avocado ranch. OK, that’s a few things.
Cook Out
$ | (866) 547-0011 | WEBSITE
This drive-thru restaurant is perfect for a quick lunch break, late-night craving, road trip pit stop, or basically any situation that calls for affordable fast food that actually tastes good. The staff are trained to be friendly and efficient, so yes, Cook Out means business.
Five Guys
$ | (910) 597-9831 | WEBSITE
If you can only do one burger joint in Shallotte, Five Guys should be the one. It’s in a straightforward spot that works just as well for a solo meal as it does for a big group dinner. Food-wise, you won’t regret their iconic cheeseburger and an order of those perfectly cooked fries. The staff is friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with menu choices, and the place stays open until 10pm for late-night cravings.
Just a heads-up for those with peanut allergies: they offer free roasted peanuts while you wait. Prices might feel a bit high, but the generous portions and quality make it worth it.
Chunky Salsa
$ | (910) 232-7322 | WEBSITE
Maybe you got tired of all the fussy, overpriced spots trying too hard to impress. Pull up a chair at Chunky Salsa for some real comfort in the middle of all the noise. Someone behind the counter will warm up your pollo tacos and ladle you some of that homemade salsa (which is what to order).
Papa Johns Pizza
$ | (910) 754-7575 | WEBSITE
Tucked away in a convenient strip mall, this pizza joint serves the best pies in Shallotte, let alone some of the most reliable takeout in the county. Everything here is handled by a staff that is quite awesome despite the busy lunch rush (such as Monique’s careful address verification) and the food is so satisfying that we’d gladly wait through the line at the counter.
The manager Shyann efficiently managed a massive 44-pizza order for a local business, ensuring everything was ready precisely on time. Another customer reported getting their Hawaiian pizza in just 10 minutes after a beach trip, even during peak hours. With Supreme and Hawaiian options always available, Papa John’s remains a go-to spot for those seeking great food with genuine convenience.
Rivers Edge Golf Club
Rivers Edge Golf Club feels like a championship course tucked into a nature preserve, but in a welcoming way. We can’t think of any other golf club we’d rather play a round on pristine fairways alongside scenic marsh views, challenging holes, and friendly staff ready with helpful tips. The last three holes are especially memorable, making it a must-play track for golf enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a real escape into quality golf, this is the place.
Dairy Queen (Treat)
$ | (910) 754-2999 | WEBSITE
Dairy Queen should be your go-to for dessert in Shallotte. They serve classics like a health bar blizzard and hot fudge treat, as well as topping options like dry peanuts and pecans. The restaurant stays open until 10 PM on Fridays, but only accepts cash after 9 PM. While they no longer offer strawberry or chocolate flavors, customers can still enjoy their delicious ice cream. They are diligent about completing orders quickly and notify customers when they take breaks.
Home Style Foods
$ | (910) 754-5599 | WEBSITE
Home Style Foods is a southern kitchen that serves authentic biscuits and grits so satisfying that we plan to indulge in them regularly until we’re old enough to always have a biscuit crumb tucked away just in case a gravy craving strikes. This welcoming diner offers a handful of stupendous breakfast dishes with their freshly prepared fried okra at the forefront, including phenomenal rib plates and coffee so rich that you could probably use it to warm up a chilly Carolina morning.
