Wondering where to eat in Onslow County, NC? I have some suggestions for you that won’t disappoint and takes the guesswork out of where to eat when you’re on vacation.
Figuring out meals should be the least of your worries. This list of must-try restaurants has something for everyone in your group.
Once you’ve had your fill, be sure to work it off with one of the awesome outdoor adventures in Onslow County.
Places to Eat Breakfast in Onslow County, NC
Yana’s Ye Olde Drug Store Restaurant
Casual 50s-themed joint dishing up daytime diner classics, including pancakes, burgers, and more all day long.
Don’t forget to try their famous homemade fruit fritters. Seriously…dessert for breakfast isn’t a bad way to start a vacation day.
Be sure to say hi to Elvis as he greets you at the front door.
Ye Olde Riverwalk Grill
A fun, waterfront Irish and Italian Restaurant & Bar offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Go ahead and order the biscuits and gravy…it’s so worth it!
Kettle Diner
Serving up a vast array of tasty food in a casual and friendly setting. Perfect for gatherings with family and friends or grabbing a bite after a long night out. Breakfast is served all day long with daily specials.
This is a visitor and local favorite for nearly a decade!
Where To Brunch in Onslow County, NC
BORO Restaurant & Bar
Located in historic downtown Swansboro, overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and the White Oak River, BORO serves Tapas style plates, large plates, steak burgers, salads and PLENTY more.
Offering a full bar with 12 Craft Brews on tap year around along with over 130+ wines.
Live music every Wednesday 7-10 pm, Friday 8-11 pm, and Saturday 8-11 pm.
Where To Go For Lunch in Onslow County, NC
Thigs BBQ House
Savor pit-smoked BBQ/Chicken/Ribs topped with a little bit of “Swine Wine” a tangy sauce embraced by the Eastern NC BBQ enthusiasts.
Riverview Café
Fresh caught NC seafood is always on the menu along with their hand-cut steaks, fresh veggies and more! Most seafood can be prepared fried broiled or grilled.
They offer a wide array of lunch specials Monday through Friday for under Ten dollars! A local favorite serving beachgoers and locals alike since 1946! (Now in its third generation of ownership.)
Church Street Irish Pub & Deli
Church Street Inn, Deli, and Irish Pub is located in Swansboro’s historic waterfront district. It’s a fun, homey venue offering “pubby” comfort food, beer & wine, plus an espresso bar.
Restaurants You Need To Visit For Dinner in Onslow County, NC
Saltwater Grill
Located in downtown Swansboro, NC, Saltwater Grill is in the heart of the “Friendly City by the Sea” overlooking the Intracoastal waterway and Bogue Sound.
Saltwater Grill features the finest in waterfront dining with a view from every table either inside in a spacious dining area or on their second-story deck overlooking the waterfront and docks.
They also offer dock dining in season and outside dining along the waterfront for special occasions. Fresh local seafood, steaks, and cuisine with an international flair prepared by Chef Martin Berndt will tempt your palate.
Saltwater Grill also offers catering for all types of events and live music outside on a downstairs patio.
Mike’s Farm
One of the largest and most memorable attractions in Onslow County, Mike’s Farm offers a rural farming, shopping, dining and family-friendly experience.
Guests enjoy events and educational programs throughout the year along with with a petting zoo, hayrides, strawberry fields, and seasonal produce as well as the pumpkin patch every fall.
A festival of lights hayride debuts around the holiday season and a beautifully decorated gift shop showcases candles, unique country gifts and Christmas décor year-round.
Their new NC Products Barn is a must-see…much of the wood used for construction was milled right off the property.
Riverside Steak & Seafood
Innovative American cuisine specializing in local North Carolina-caught seafood and hand-cut aged beef served in a casual atmosphere that’s perfect for families, couples and friends to gather.
Built in 1915 by the Russell family and situated on top of the hill overlooking Swansboro, the restaurant property was purchased in 1998 and completely renovated into a restaurant.
Quickly developing a reputation for providing the freshest seafood, homemade sauces, perfectly cooked beef, and nightly specials, Riverside gained a loyal following and the restaurant soon became a landmark in its own right.
Swansboro Food & Beverage Co.
Swansboro Food & Beverage Co. offers a fun and relaxing atmosphere where visitors can enjoy a casual dining experience while being treated to supreme food and great service.
With a scenic view of the peaceful White Oak River as it winds toward the ocean, the family-friendly full-service restaurant serves coastal cuisine with southern inspiration using fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Where To Enjoy Some Whiskey or A Nightcap in Onslow County, NC
Walton’s Distillery
The family run distillery manufactures corn whiskey, moonshine in small batches and bourbon. Many of the distillery’s products are named after Don’s ancestors and relatives.
They host Open Houses (aka Distillery Sessions) seasonally that feature live bluegrass music, food and tastings.
Sweet Edventure Dessert Bar
Serving desserts from cakes & pies to shakes and sundaes. Offering a full martini & coffee menu all in an upscale atmosphere you won’t want to leave.