Myrtle Grove Junction, tucked away in the south-end sprawl of Wilmington, NC, may not always make the big headlines—yet those in the know recognize this charming neighborhood as one of the Port City’s most delightfully diverse dining corridors. From old-school Southern favorites to inventive global cuisine, food trucks slinging late-night snacks, and indie cafés bubbling with character, Myrtle Grove Junction is the kind of place where every meal feels like discovering a secret. Whether you're a local or just passing through, allow me—your neighborhood foodie friend—to guide you to the can’t-miss culinary hotspots and hidden gems along the vibrant streets running through Carolina Beach Road, Myrtle Grove Road, and the cozy intersections nearby.
Myrtle Grove Junction’s Culinary Scene: A Tapestry of Flavors
Let’s start with what sets Myrtle Grove Junction apart. Unlike the larger, tourist-flooded areas of Wilmington, Myrtle Grove Junction exudes a neighborly vibe. Here, family-run eateries rub shoulders with new-wave brunch spots, and food trucks gather on shaded lots. Price points range from indulgent date-night dinners to wallet-friendly lunch bites. Whether grabbing breakfast on the go or settling in for a relaxing Sunday supper, there’s something for all tastes and budgets.
Standout Restaurants: Where Flavor Shines
*### Something Fishy Seafood Restaurant (6132 Carolina Beach Rd)*
For classic Carolina eats in a no-frills setting, Something Fishy is a perennial favorite. Go for the fried flounder platter or opt for the shrimp and oyster combo if you want a taste of the sea. The hush puppies here are legendary—crispy outside, steamy inside, and always served piping hot. Prices generally run $10-$20 for mains, keeping it both welcoming and affordable.
*### Szechuan 132 Chinese Restaurant (5942 Carolina Beach Rd)*
Over by the Pointe at Barclay intersection, Szechuan 132 has been feeding locals with bold, authentic Chinese flavors for years. Signature dishes like the spicy double-cooked pork and General Tso’s chicken are crave-worthy. Most entrees are under $15, and the ambiance is perfect for a cozy family meal or takeout night.
*### Nineteen Restaurant & Bar (5945 Carolina Beach Rd)*
This chef-driven spot at the Beau Rivage Golf & Resort has become a go-to for elevated Southern comfort with a twist—from shrimp and grits to blackened tuna tacos. Their weekend brunch is wildly popular (think homemade buttermilk biscuits and inventive omelets). Slightly pricier—with entrées ranging $16-$28—Nineteen is perfect for date night or celebration meals.
Café Culture and Sweet Spots
*### Port City Java (6021 Carolina Beach Rd)*
Step into any Port City Java and you’re instantly in local coffee heaven. The Myrtle Grove Junction location is a hub for remote workers, friends catching up, and folks craving a smooth cold brew or flaky pastry. Try the cinnamon rolls or house-baked scones for a treat under $5.
*### Nana’s Main Ingredient Bakery (605 south college rd, near the junction)*
Just north of the neighborhood, Nana’s is worth the jaunt. Their cupcakes, pound cakes, and lemon bars both look and taste homemade. Locals rave about the banana pudding and classic Southern wedding cookies—the perfect sweet fix for under $4.
Food Trucks and Grab-and-Go Goodness
*### Trolly Stop Hot Dogs (6033 Carolina Beach Rd)*
An institution on Carolina Beach Road, the Trolly Stop’s neon sign heralds hot dogs the way they’re meant to be: snappy, loaded with toppings, and served up fast. Their secret? Original recipes and locally sourced buns. Prices start as low as $3.50 per dog—making this a top kid-friendly pick.
*### Catch The Food Truck (regularly parked along Myrtle Grove Rd/College Rd intersections)*
Chef Keith Rhodes’ famed food truck brings sustainable, high-quality seafood direct to the curb. The blackened mahi tacos and Southern-fried drum bites are local favorites. Expect strong flavors and a line during lunch hours, with most dishes around $8-$14.
International Eats and Unexpected Finds
*### Taqueria Los Portales (6016 Carolina Beach Rd)*
For true-blue Mexican fare, Los Portales is the local’s go-to. Street-style tacos overflowing with carnitas, marinated asada, and zippy salsas are all made fresh. Be sure to try the housemade horchata, and for the brave, the cactus salad. It’s incredibly affordable, with tacos under $3 each.
*### The Veggie Wagon (Farley Dr at Carolina Beach Rd)*
Not just a grocery, but a treasure trove of artisanal sandwiches, craft sodas, and local snacks. Their tomato pie is legendary, and the rotating selection of vegan treats means there’s always something new to try. Prices for grab-and-go lunch boxes hover around $7-$11.
Local Food Traditions You’ll Love
Myrtle Grove Junction has a few distinctive culinary traditions worth mentioning:
- Seafood Fridays: Many local families hit up Something Fishy or Catch for fried shrimp, hush puppies, and coleslaw to mark the end of the workweek.
- Neighborhood BBQs: In late spring, small pop-up stands smoke pork shoulders on corners along Myrtle Grove Rd—worth tracking for truly authentic pulled pork sandwiches.
- Food Truck Fridays at Church of the Servant Lot: Between April and October, rotating food trucks offer everything from wood-fired pizza to creative desserts.
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Radar Favorites
*### Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn Express (6201 Carolina Beach Rd)*
A smaller outpost of the legendary Wilmington burrito shack, this hidden gem is beloved for gargantuan burritos, funky decor, and killer queso. It’s casual, friendly, and easy on the wallet—most burritos are $7-$12.
*### The Sailfish at Myrtle Grove (6331 Carolina Beach Rd)*
Tucked behind a nondescript shopping center, The Sailfish is a classic neighborhood dive with surprisingly good seafood, burgers, and live music most weekends. Try the fish sandwich and ice-cold local craft beers.
Where Foodie Trails Cross
Most of these standouts cluster along Carolina Beach Road near Myrtle Grove Road and South College Road, making it easy to sample several in one tasty afternoon.
Final Bites: Why Myrtle Grove Junction is Special
What really makes Myrtle Grove Junction a culinary adventure is the neighborhood feel. It’s the smiles, the “how-ya-doins,” the owner who remembers your favorite order. Whether you’re on the hunt for the crispiest hush puppy, the most decadent cupcake, or tacos that taste like Mexico City street food, you’ll find your cravings exceeded—always with a side of Southern hospitality.
Come hungry, bring friends, and don’t be shy about asking for local recommendations—the best meals here are the ones you share and remember. This corner of Wilmington may just surprise you with how deliciously down-home, and globally inspired, eating out can be.