Wilmington’s Gourmet Gem

NOMA blends convenience, quality and community in two charming locations

By Jen Reed  »  Photos by G. Frank Hart

In a city known for its coastal charm, creative energy and a food scene that rivals bigger metropolises, NOMA has quietly and confidently become one of Wilmington’s most beloved culinary destinations. What began as a cozy gourmet market in Porter’s Neck has since blossomed into a two-location concept, with its sister store now serving the beachside community of Wrightsville Beach. Together, they offer more than just meals—they offer comfort, connection and culinary care.

The concept was created by husband-and-wife duo Allen and Jenny Luper, who brought to life a vision rooted in food, family and thoughtful hospitality.

A Dream Seasoned Over Time

Before opening NOMA, Allen and Jenny Luper envisioned creating a space where gourmet convenience could meet local flavor. The idea was never just about selling food—it was about curating meaningful, high-quality experiences. With backgrounds in real estate and business, they brought a unique perspective to the culinary world, one grounded in understanding the rhythms of community life.

That vision took shape in 2020 with the opening of the original NOMA in Porter’s Neck. The name, short for “North Market,” reflects both the location and the market-style model at its core. From the outset, the concept offered something fresh: a place to grab a made-to-order sandwich, a chef-prepared meal to go or a bottle of wine from a carefully curated selection.

As more people embraced a home-centered lifestyle, NOMA quickly became a hub for those seeking high-quality, take-home meals. The response was immediate and enthusiastic, as locals found in NOMA a new kind of neighborhood staple—one that combined the convenience of a market with the quality of a boutique kitchen.

Inside 8207 NOMA: A Market with Heart

Located at 8207 Market St., the original NOMA blends the ease of grab-and-go with the warmth of a neighborhood gathering place. Customers are greeted with sleek coolers filled with ready-to-eat dishes, fresh salads, dips, desserts and full entrees. The culinary offerings reflect an elevated approach to comfort food, with rotating specials and popular staples alike.

From creamy chicken salad and shrimp bisque to turkey meatloaf and seared salmon, each item is prepared with an eye for freshness and flavor. The daily offerings are designed to satisfy busy families and food lovers who want something delicious without the need to cook from scratch.

Beyond the food, the Market Street location features a small but thoughtful selection of wines, snacks and pantry items—all curated with the same care as the food itself. The atmosphere is welcoming and efficient: a place to stop in quickly or linger as you browse.

Beachside Bliss: NOMA Wrightsville Beach

With the success of the original location well established, the Lupers opened a second NOMA in 2023, this time just minutes from the ocean. Situated on Wrightsville Avenue, NOMA Wrightsville Beach brings the brand’s signature warmth and quality to the island community, with a few thoughtful twists to suit its surroundings.

The beachside location continues the focus on gourmet meals and snacks, but with offerings that suit a laid-back, coastal lifestyle. Customers can find everything from fresh fruit and baked goods to sandwiches, salads, cold beverages and an expanded beer and wine selection—perfect for beach picnics, boat days or casual entertaining.

The Wrightsville Beach space reflects the easygoing spirit of its location. It’s ideal for vacationers, second-home owners and locals looking for convenient, high-quality options that align with an active, outdoor lifestyle. Whether it’s a quick stop before heading to the water or an easy dinner pick-up on the way home, this location delivers accessibility without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Community-Centered and Future-Focused

NOMA’s success is anchored in its strong connection to the community. From working with regional vendors to curating seasonal specials and offering holiday catering, the brand is deeply woven into the daily fabric of life in Wilmington. Each decision—from ingredient sourcing to menu planning—is made with local preferences and values in mind.

As the business continues to grow, the focus remains on maintaining quality, consistency and customer connection. Plans for the future include more seasonal offerings, expanded catering services and potentially new community-driven experiences that celebrate local food culture.

The team behind NOMA remains committed to the original vision: offering delicious, nourishing meals that bring people together. By resisting rapid expansion or franchise ambitions, they have stayed true to the small-scale, high-impact model that makes the brand so beloved.

A Wilmington Treasure

In an age where fast food and mass production dominate, NOMA offers something refreshingly different. It combines convenience with craftsmanship, speed with quality, and service with sincerity. Whether it’s lunch on the go, a family dinner or a special occasion, NOMA delivers consistently exceptional experiences.

Both locations have become trusted resources for Wilmington residents and visitors alike—places where food is more than sustenance; it’s a reflection of care, creativity and community.

So, the next time you're near Porter’s Neck or Wrightsville Beach, stop in and discover what makes NOMA such a local gem. With its blend of gourmet offerings, neighborhood warmth and unmistakable charm, it’s easy to see why NOMA is quickly becoming one of the most cherished names in Wilmington dining.

Visit NOMA:

Porter’s Neck: 
8207 Market St., Wilmington, NC 28411

Wrightsville Beach: 
7006 Wrightsville Ave., Wilmington, NC 28403

For menus, specials and online ordering, visit noma8207.com.