Go Brunch or Go Home

A collection of Wilmington's top spots to rise and grub

By Fanny Slater

Not a morning person? No problem. This is precisely where brunch swoops in as the late-morning hero. It's that magical window of time where it's perfectly acceptable to order anything from an oversized stack of chocolate chip pancakes to a blackened salmon Caesar. 

Wilmington houses an ample scene of restaurants that specialize in this meal, but no fear—we're here to guide the way. March to the beat of your own appetite ahead with our rundown of the Port City's finest eateries to go brunch or go home.

Brunches
910-679-4075 | mimosasmademedoit.com

This contemporary café quickly gained a respected reputation around Wilmington for its array of egg dishes, bacon-y delights, and full-blown flavor journey through mimosa-land. The diverse menu covers the basics like the “All American” plus biscuits and gravy alongside inventive options such as grilled shrimp and grits with lobster cream sauce and a fried green tomato BLT. For those thinking: “Say more about that mimosa flight,” expect four miniature renditions of the quintessential brunch beverage, each crafted with a unique combination of juices and spirits.

Famous Toastery
910-256-7030 | famoustoastery.com

Originating from the Carolinas, this bustling tavern triumphantly offers “breakfast, lunch, and brunch all at once.” In addition to the extensive assortment of offerings, their “every server is your server” philosophy ensures there's always an abundance of hands when you need a splash more maple syrup. If you're the type of diner who likes to let the professionals do the decision-making, turn to the Founders Favorites portion of the menu. The Breakfast Pizza on pita—scrambled eggs, ham, caramelized onions, cheddar, and sausage gravy—is as perfect as it sounds.

Our Crepes & More
910-395-0077 | ourcrepesandmore.com

Nestled in the heart of town, Our Crepes and More is an unassuming gem that's been whisking patrons all over the map through authentic French Crepe culture since 2010. The homey family-owned establishment takes pride in the fact that each thin pancake is crafted to order and with care. For those with restricted diets, OCM offers gluten and dairy-free batter plus a vegan-friendly buckwheat version. Other wonders on deck: all-American breakfast classics, sandwiches, soups, and salads. For a sweet taste of summer, transport your St. Tropez—a tropical combo of banana, peach puree, and caramel—on the umbrella-lined patio. If you can't choose which flavor route to take, the Tahiti (a mixture of curry, pineapple, and raisins) is the best of both worlds.

The George on the Riverwalk
910-763-2052 | thegeorgerestaurant.com

At The George, southern hospitality and seasonal cuisine meet scenic river views, creating an unforgettable weekend brunch experience Wilmington has been swooning over for years. The attentive staff elevates every moment, ensuring each meal is efficient yet enjoyable. Indulge in their twist on oysters Rockefeller with chorizo, onion confit, garlic aioli, and fried garlic to start things off with a bang. Soak up the lively atmosphere on the riverwalk with a spicy Bloody Mary and this aptly named coastal-inspired creation: The Riverwalk—two lump crab cakes, poached eggs, and tomatoes swimming in hollandaise over buttermilk biscuits.

Sweet n Savory Café
910-256-0115 | sweetnsavory.cafe

As the name implies, at this Wrightsville Beach café you can satisfy your craving for both ends of the flavor spectrum. Sweet n Savory is celebrated for its bright energy, especially during brunch, where zesty Bloody Marys flow freely and soup-and-sandwich combos hit the spot. Dive into the Maple Bourbon Steak n Eggs if a hearty, hair-of-the-dog feast is what you're after, or opt for the Health Nut—avocado toast loaded with veggies and a balsamic glaze—for a lighter bite. Fan favorites include the exceptional (and as-seen-on-TV) French toast, but save room for the irresistible Salted Caramel Brownie from the in-house bakery.

JohnnyLuke's Kitchen Bar
910-769-1798 | johnnylukeskb.com

This two-story Market Street sports bar and restaurant is a must-visit for Sunday Brunch. JohnnyLukes touts a notable selection of draft brews, TVs galore, and a reputation for great service and from-scratch New American provisions. You'll definitely want to add an egg to the burger and scarf it down on the spacious patio when the weather is just right. If it's a rainy weekend, the cozy downstairs dining room is the perfect place to get your hands messy with JL's meaty buffalo wings and A+ homemade ranch. Cap it off with the pecan caramel sauce-drenched sticky bread pudding.

Blueberry's Grill
910-239-9258 | blueberrysgrillnc.com

Hailing from South Carolina, this modern brunch oasis showcases the balance of Southern and American fare with a Mediterranean flair and an ode to blueberries. Each high-quality dish is an elevated interpretation of a classic and a testament to the owner's dedication to culinary finesse. For a standout starter, go for the blue corn meal hushpuppies studded with berries and served with honey butter and blueberry compote for dipping. Wash it down with a Mint Coffee Cooler (a boozy spin on a peppermint mocha) and top it off with the blueberry ricotta Belgian waffle.

Savorez 
910-833-8894 | savorez.com

From the colorful digs to the sumptuous coconut-ginger lobster ceviche, every bite at Savorez is a celebration. You'll be shocked that the big flavors of Chef Sam Cahoon's vibrant Latin-American cuisine even fit inside the tiny North 4th Street café. The Sunday brunch lineup is a medley of artisan plates like the Hipster Toast with sweet potato puree, avocado, charred grape tomatoes, and pumpkin seeds. On the sweet side, go for the French toast made with butter-seared Cuban bread, brown sugar, and cinnamon syrup. Don't miss Sam's Green Eggs & Ham—a clever combo showcasing crispy pork belly and chimichurri scrambled eggs.

Jimbos
910-799-2211 | jimbosbreakfastandlunch.com

No coffee cup is left unattended at this unfussy midtown diner famous for fluffy buttermilk biscuits, omelets, and crispy hash browns served all day. Seeped in unpretentious charm, Jimbo's boasts a daylong breakfast spread that includes everything from mammoth cinnamon rolls to southern specialties like crispy corned beef hash. Simplicity has been shining at Jimbo's for nearly four decades alongside an old-fashioned ambiance, warm staff, and ever-changing specials. College students, families, and tourists also flock here for afternoon noshes like scratch-made soups and country-fried steak.

Drift Coffee & Kitchen 
910-679-4374 | driftcoffee.kitchen

The drift about Drift? It's Wilmington's trendiest espresso sanctuary that serves up a little bit of everything. Founded by Michael and Ben Powell, Drift excels in beach-inspired fare and small-batch coffee across each of their bustling cafés. Each vibrant, airy coffeehouse doles out sophisticated, wholesome eats like the Harissa Grain Bowl with marinated kale, sweet potato, and farro. Got guests with an appetite for something more familiar? They'll dig the fluffy strawberries and cream pancakes, smash burger with special sauce, or BEC on brioche. If coffee and matcha don't do it for you, a fresh-made smoothie, sparkling wine, or local brew should do the trick.