Cape Fear Seafood Company

Cape Fear Seafood Company

5226 College Rd #5, Wilmington, NC 28412, United States

+1 910-799-7077

Seafood restaurant
(2961)
Share Your Experience

About This Place

Nestled in the heart of Wilmington, NC, Cape Fear Seafood Company offers an authentic coastal dining experience that vividly captures the rich flavors of the sea. This seafood restaurant is a true haven for seafood lovers craving the freshest catches, skillfully prepared with a blend of Southern charm and bold spices. Whether you're craving a classic dish or an adventurous plate, Cape Fear Seafood Company consistently delivers waves of deliciousness that linger long after your meal.

The menu is a seafood lover’s dream come true. Start your culinary journey with crowd favorites like the creamy Crab Dip—a luscious blend of crab, horseradish, cheese, and spices served with warm pita points—or the uniquely flavorful Sweet & Spicy Shrimp, tossed in a house-made sweet Thai chili sauce that offers a delightful balance of heat and sweetness. For those craving a true taste of local coastal traditions, the Calabash One Platter is a must-try, delivering a medley of fried seafood that is perfectly crispy with that signature Calabash crunch.

Enticing entrees shine with dishes like the hearty Cape Fear Shrimp & Grits, where tender shrimp are paired with creamy, buttery grits that melt in your mouth. The Bald Head Island Crab Cakes stand out as expertly pan-seared cakes richly packed with fresh backfin and claw meat, complemented by a velvety lemon beurre blanc sauce. Favorites like the Fried Flounder and Lemon Pepper Sea Scallops are prepared with meticulous care, offering a perfect harmony of flaky texture and tangy seasoning that keeps guests coming back.

One of the things that truly elevates the dining experience here is the vibrant atmosphere. Cape Fear Seafood Company exudes a welcoming, laid-back coastal vibe that instantly transports you to the waterfront. Whether you’re dining in or ordering takeout, the staff’s attentive and knowledgeable service ensures you feel valued and well-guided through the impressive menu options.

For a fresh approach to seafood tacos, try the Shrimp Tacos stuffed with crispy fried shrimp, mango salsa, sour cream, and crunchy cabbage served alongside a fresh black bean and corn salad—each bite bursting with bright, zesty flavors. Or, if you prefer comfort classics, their Fish and Chips showcase flaky cod in a perfectly seasoned beer batter, paired with crunchy fries and classic cole slaw.

Dessert is another highlight that should not be missed. Many guests have raved about their Créme Brûlée, a silky smooth custard crowned with a perfectly caramelized sugar crust, delivering a sweet, delicate finish to your meal. And if you’re looking to unwind with a refreshing cocktail, the Guava Coconut Mojito offers a tropical twist that complements the seafood’s fresh flavors brilliantly.

While some previous guests have noted areas for improvement like updating menus or decor, the consistent praise for the flavorful food, generous portions, and attentive service paints a picture of a restaurant dedicated to quality and customer satisfaction. Just ask any local, and they’ll tell you Cape Fear Seafood Company is the go-to spot for authentic Wilmington seafood that hits all the right notes.

Experience the freshest seafood Wilmington has to offer in a friendly, inviting setting at Cape Fear Seafood Company. Whether you're craving a casual lunch or a memorable dinner, this local gem promises to deliver satisfying plates full of coastal character and heart.

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Fast service Great beer selection Great cocktails Great dessert Great tea selection Great wine list Serves local specialty
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Comfort food Happy-hour drinks Healthy options Private dining room Small plates Spirits Wine
Dining options
Brunch Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Bar on site Toilet Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy Quiet Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups Tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations Usually a wait
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Parking

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday
    10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday
    10:00 AM - 09:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Annemely Castillo
    1 month ago

    The service was good and the mahi mahi was very good. The creme burle was very good too. What i did not like was that the menu was sticky and old and looks neglected. This was at location closed to 421 on junction. A little price for location look, tjey may need to update a little bit. Restrooms were clean. Thanks

  • Donovan Louvierre
    1 month ago

    All of these stars are low 5's. Each individual aspect was good enough to call good, but nothing single-handedly deserved a "Wow!" besides dessert and scallops. That being said, altogether the restaurant would be a 5/5. I believe overall, I could recommend this restaurant, but not highly or to everyone.

  • Dj Randol
    1 month ago

    I recently dined at Cape Fear Seafood Company in Wilmington, and it was an absolute standout meal—hands down one of the best seafood experiences I've had in the area! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere was welcoming and relaxed, with that perfect coastal vibe that makes you feel right at home. The service was top-notch; our server was attentive, knowledgeable about the menu, and made great recommendations without being overbearing. They truly elevated the whole experience. Now, onto the food, wow! We started with the Shrimp and Grits, and let me tell you, it was awesome. Creamy, flavorful grits loaded with perfectly seasoned shrimp in a rich, savory sauce,it's no wonder this spot was recognized by Our State Magazine as one of North Carolina's must-try for this classic dish. Every bite was pure comfort with a gourmet twist. I also had the Mahi-Mahi special, which was really good: fresh, flaky, and grilled to perfection with a light herb seasoning that let the fish shine. Paired with some simple sides, it was fresh, balanced, and just what I needed after a day exploring the Cape Fear coast. Overall, the portions were generous, the prices were fair for the quality and everything felt fresh and locally sourced, which is exactly what you want from a spot like this. If you're in Wilmington and craving seafood done right, Cape Fear Seafood Company is a must-visit. I'll definitely be back, highly recommend!

  • Mackenzie McIntyre
    2 month ago

    Highly recommend for good seafood flavors! I got the shrimp scampi and my husband got the swordfish. My son got the fried fish sticks and fried. Server was great as well.

  • Brooke Nolley
    3 month ago

    Absolutely phenomenal seafood! We got takeout two nights in a row while in Wilmington because it was so good. Their fried shrimp is Calabash style and delicious! The hushpuppies were sweet and had a nice crunch to the exterior. Fries were seasoned nicely with salt, pepper, and some herbs. The risotto cakes were rich, cheesy, and outstanding. Overall, it was some of the best seafood I’ve ever had.

  • T. F. F.
    4 month ago

    Cape Fear Seafood Company easily deserves 5 stars. Jason was a fantastic server—friendly, attentive, and really added to the experience. The scallops were incredible, perfectly cooked, and full of flavor. Overall, a great meal and a place worth going back to.

Share Your Experience

Your Rating

Discover What Travelers Love About This Place

Real experiences, honest impressions, and insights shared by the Wherevi community to help you explore with confidence.