We’re still getting to know the area, but here are some of our faves and some places that have been recommended…

  • Sear’s Landing: On the mainland, right by the bridge in Surf City, you’ll find Sears Landing, a fun and unique restaurant. They offer a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This place is popular so plan accordingly, but the wait is gorgeous — right by the water — so it passes quickly. Weather permitting take advantage of dining outside on the covered deck. The crew at Sears Landing prides itself on using local ingredients, which of course here on Topsail means local seafood and that means our choice on the menu is of course, going to be a seafood combo. Sears landing is also great for boaters as you can pull right up to their dock grab a bite and get right back on the water.
  • Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille, Surf City: Daddy Mac’s is located right on the beach offering awesome views of the Atlantic Ocean and Surf City Pier. They have a separate lunch and dinner menu that include fresh seafood, great burgers, sandwiches and salads for lunch, quality steaks, excellent pasta dishes, as well as many other local favorites. No reservations are taken unless you have a large group.
  • Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar, Surf City: You can’t really have a quintessential Topsail beach vacation without fresh local seafood. You also can’t have romance without fresh local oysters—and they serve them up daily at Shuckin’ Shack. They also host “Sundays At The Shack” with live music on their pet-friendly patio every Sunday in June-August from 4-6pm.
  • Beach Shop & Grille, Topsail Beach: The Beach Shop and Grill was founded in 1952 and is an historic landmark in Topsail Beach serving fresh local seafood, NC pork and the freshest produce. Enjoy this upscale casual bistro near the beach, where the seafood is freshly caught and prepared, the shrimp and grits are infamous, and the house-made desserts are to-die-for. There’s an amazing wine list and craft beer list, too, making it a wonderful place to spend the evening.
  • Surf City BBQ and Grill: Sure Topsail Island is famous for fresh seafood, but sometimes you just have to have some Eastern NC style BBQ. For all of you visiting from out of town and, perhaps, unfamiliar with Eastern NC BBQ, it is a vinegar based BBQ. If you have never had this style BBQ you’re in for a treat and the family owned and operated is the perfect place to be initiated into the world of Eastern NC BBQ. Enjoy the family-friendly and casual atmosphere of the Surf City BBQ and enjoy the cooked to perfection BBQ that Surf City BBQ is so famous for.
  • Fancy Sushi Asian Fusion: A casual “hole in the wall,” the restaurant is open year round to meet your every sushi, Japanese, Thai, and Chinese food craving. It’s located on Topsail Island, right in the heart of Surf City and it’s the only Asian fusion restaurant in the area.
  • Beauchaine’s 211, Surf City: Beauchaine’s casual fine dining and full-service bar is a great place for drinks and dinner. It’s the perfect spot for date night, family dinners, special occasions and other celebrations. Outdoor seating is available, too. Reservations recommended.
  • Surf City Crab: It’s not a restaurant, but you can buy your dinner there! Surf City Crab is our pick for the best seafood market around. It’s on the island and commercial fishing boats pull right up to their dock to deliver their fresh catch.

Bars with live music

  • Brass Pelican, Surf City: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and dive bar status, you can enjoy a cold drink, tasty bar food, live music, the outdoor area and a come-as-you-are atmosphere here.
  • Swingbridge Cork & Brew, Surf City: Enjoy unique wines, craft brews, kegs for order and a lot of live entertainment in a fun, friendly atmosphere. Try a flight or a wine tasting while you’re here.
  • Hopsail Island, Surf City: This full service bottle shop and tap room serves up some of the best and most unique beer (and wine) on this island—and all with a smile coupled with friendly service. Check out their event schedule, too.
  • Salty Turtle Beer Company, Surf City: Locals love the Salty Turtle and you will too. Enjoy this brewery and taproom complete with a beer garden. You can even bring your own food in with you, if you please.
  • Second Row, Surf City: It’s all about beer, wine and music here. It’s open mic all the time and they’ll even provide the instruments. It’s casual and totally captivating.

(These are only a select few of the many places available for your evenings out. We also recommend you check out TripAdvisor’s top picks for Topsail restaurants that give you even more great dinner and drink destinations.)