New Bern, North Carolina is a city known for its rich history, charming waterfront, and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, finding the perfect restaurant can be a delightful adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best restaurants near New Bern, NC, as rated by diners on OpenTable. From seafood to steakhouse, Italian to American, there’s something to satisfy every palate in this picturesque coastal town.
1. Aqua Restaurant
Cuisine: Contemporary American
Price: $$
Location: Beaufort / Morehead City
- Highlights:
- Creative and Fresh Menu
- Small Plates for Sharing
- Support for Local Producers
- Upscale Bar with Specialty Cocktails
- Breezy Screened-in Porch Dining
Aqua Restaurant in Beaufort, NC, is a true gem for those seeking a dining experience that blends creativity and freshness. Executive Chef Jon McGregor’s menu is a masterpiece, offering small plates that are perfect for sharing and indulging in a variety of flavors. From local seafood to premier meats and fresh produce, Aqua takes pride in sourcing ingredients locally. The restaurant also boasts an upscale bar with specialty cocktails and an extensive wine list. Whether you choose to dine in the elegant dining room or the breezy screened-in porch, Aqua promises a memorable culinary journey.
2. Circa 81 Tapas & Cocktaileria
Cuisine: Tapas / Small Plates
Price: $$
Location: Beaufort / Morehead City
- Highlights:
- Creative Small Plates
- Variety of Specialty Drinks
- Medium and Large Plate Selections
- Take-out and Catering Available
Circa 81 Tapas & Cocktaileria is a place where creativity meets quality. Clarke Merrell, the executive chef and proprietor, has crafted a menu that encourages guests to explore and share. The small plates are perfect for starting conversations and trying something new. With more than 30 specialty drinks on the cocktaileria menu, you can pair your meal with delightful libations. Circa 81 also offers medium and large plate selections, including sandwiches, soups, local seafood, and desserts. It’s a dining experience that promises to engage your senses.
3. Blue Moon Bistro
Cuisine: French American
Price: $$
Location: Beaufort / Morehead City
- Highlights:
- Modern French Cuisine
- Locally Sourced Menu
- Chef Jayson Foster’s Culinary Journey
- Casual Fine Dining in Historic Setting
Blue Moon Bistro, located within the Historic 1821 Dill House in Beaufort, NC, offers a casual fine dining experience with a modern French twist. Chef Jayson Foster, with his culinary journey spanning across various dining spots, brings his expertise to create a locally sourced menu. The dishes at Blue Moon Bistro are a testament to his passion for cooking. With a love for fresh ingredients and French cuisine, Chef Foster has created a dining experience that celebrates tradition with a contemporary touch. It’s a place where modernity meets classic flavors.
4. 34° North Restaurant
Cuisine: American
Price: $$
Location: Beaufort / Morehead City
- Highlights:
- Locally Inspired Eastern North Carolina Cuisine
- Waterfront Dining with Stunning Views
- Fresh Local Seafood and Hand-Cut Steaks
- Seasonal Ingredients
34° North Restaurant is a waterfront dining destination that captures the essence of Eastern North Carolina cuisine. With a menu rooted in local farms and pristine waters, this restaurant promises a passport to locally inspired flavors. From fresh local seafood to hand-cut steaks and seasonal ingredients, 34° North takes pride in offering the best of the region. Whether you dine inside or on the outdoor patio, you’ll be treated to stunning views of Taylor’s Creek and Rachel Carson Reserve. It’s a dining experience that combines great food with a breathtaking island setting.
5. Prime Bistro & Wine Bar
Cuisine: Steakhouse
Price: $$
Location: Beaufort / Morehead City
- Highlights:
- Wood-Fired Steaks and Seafood
- Housemade Pasta
- World-Class Wines
Prime Bistro & Wine Bar offers an elevated dining experience for those who appreciate wood-fired steaks, seafood, housemade pasta, and world-class wines. It’s a place where the focus is on quality and flavor, making it a top choice for steak enthusiasts. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a delicious meal, Prime Bistro & Wine Bar is the perfect destination for a memorable culinary journey.
6. Flavor Hills
Cuisine: Southern
Price: $$
Location: Jacksonville
- Highlights:
- Modern Southern Comfort Cuisine
- Scratch-Made Dishes
- Amazing Cocktails and Specialty Drinks
Flavor Hills in Jacksonville, NC, is a restaurant that’s all about bringing energy and excitement to food. Their menu focuses on Modern Southern Comfort cuisine made from scratch. From amazing cocktails to specialty drinks, Flavor Hills is a place where you can eat, laugh, and drink. It’s the ideal spot for those looking to explore the flavors of the South in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
7. Nino’s Cucina Italiana
Cuisine: Italian
Price: $$
Location: Greenville
- Highlights:
- Italian Family Tradition
- Centuries-Old Recipes
- Freshly Prepared Daily
- Authentic Italian Dining Experience
Nino’s Cucina Italiana is a tribute to the rich Italian culinary tradition. With over 75 years of experience in baking and cooking, the restaurant offers centuries-old Italian recipes that have been handed down through generations. Everything is prepared fresh daily, from dough to sauces, mozzarella cheese, pasta, and meatballs. It’s a place where quality food, personality, and love come together to create an authentic Italian dining experience.
8. Main & Mill Oyster Bar & Tavern
Cuisine: Seafood
Price: $$
Location: Wilmington
- Highlights:
- Fresh Seafood Selections
- Relaxed Island Setting
- Overlooks Taylor’s Creek and Rachel Carson Reserve
Main & Mill Oyster Bar & Tavern in Winterville, North Carolina, is a seafood lover’s paradise. Their menu features an amazing selection of dishes prepared with the freshest seafood. Whether you’re a fan of oysters, shrimp, or fish, you’ll find something to delight your taste buds. The restaurant offers a relaxed island setting overlooking Taylor’s Creek and Rachel Carson Reserve, making it a perfect spot for seafood enthusiasts.
9. Buffalo Wild Wings – Greenville
Cuisine: American
Price: $$
Location: Greenville
- Highlights:
- Sports Enthusiast’s Haven
- Great Food and Cold Beer
- Casual Dining Experience
Buffalo Wild Wings has been a go-to destination for sports enthusiasts since 1982. With a menu that includes cold beer and great food, it’s the ultimate place to watch the game and enjoy a casual dining experience. Whether you’re cheering for your favorite team or simply looking for a fun night out, Buffalo Wild Wings is the perfect spot to relax with friends.
When it comes to dining in New Bern, NC, these restaurants offer a diverse range of culinary experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for contemporary American, tapas, French American, or Italian cuisine, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Explore these top-rated dining establishments and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the flavors of Coastal North Carolina.
So, what are you waiting for? Reserve your spot now and indulge in the best that New Bern’s culinary scene has to offer. Bon appétit!
