While Bald Head Island isn’t known for having a plethora of restaurants, the ones that are on the small island sure do deliver. Ranging from sandwiches to upscale dining, specialty cocktails, and delectable seafood you can find anything you want when you’re tired of cooking in.
Whether you choose to indulge in a night out or opt for takeaway to enjoy at your vacation rental, there is a Bald Head Island restaurant for everyone.
Best Bald Head Island Restaurants To Try
1. Bald Head Island Club
If you are in the mood for a fine-dining experience, head over to the Bald Head Island Club which offers not one, but numerous dining options. From the poolside to the terrace, there’s an eatery with a different vibe to match your mood. Some of the options include a fine dining restaurant, a casual grill, and a poolside bar.
The menu features a range of classic and contemporary dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients.
2. Jailhouse Provisions
- Price: $$
- Cuisine: American restaurant
- Address: 251 Edward Teach Ext, Bald Head Island (GPS)
- Website: See menu
Located in a former jailhouse, this is one of the best Balf Head Island restaurants and offers a unique and quirky atmosphere. The menu features seafood and southern comfort food, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also has a full bar and indoor and outdoor seating. You can grab food baskets, sandwiches, salads, and organic wine from this café.
Jailhouse Provisions also offers seasonal entertainment and creative drinks to keep the tourists on their toes during the summer season.
3. Delphina Cantina
Delphina Cantina is one of the most popular eateries on the island. One of the oldest too. With its origins traced back to the 15th century, this eatery is part of Bald Head. It is located right on the harbor in the former River Pilot Café and has a colorful and vibrant interior with a menu full of fresh and inventive Mexican cuisines.
The menu features a range of tacos, burritos, and other Mexican favorites, as well as creative cocktails and margaritas.
The restaurant also has outdoor seating and a lively atmosphere. If you are in the mood for some authentic Latin cuisine on the island, we suggest ordering their signature dish and the grilled corn on the cob.
4. Island Times Café
This cozy café is located at the Deep Point Ferry Terminal and right inside the lobby. It offers a range of classic American fares, such as burgers, fresh sandwiches, salads, and breakfast items. You can order breakfast, lunch, to-go meals, beverages, and snacks on your way in or out of the island.
5. Maritime Market Café
The café is located within the Maritime Market, a popular shopping and dining destination on Bald Head. When you are exhausted from all that shopping, you can stop by the café for lunch. It’s a perfect breakfast place too.
The café offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods, as well as a coffee bar and smoothie bar. For lunch specials, you can expect taco salad made from the market’s fresh produce. Those with a sweet tooth will also appreciate the café’s freshly baked brownies, turnovers, and cookies.
6. The Shoals Club
This private club offers fine dining in an elegant and refined atmosphere, with stunning views of the ocean. It’s one of the best Bald Head Islands for date night or special nights out.
The menu features a range of classic and contemporary dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. The club also has a poolside bar and grill dishing up familiar favorites like tacos and enchiladas.
8. Will O’ the Wisp
This cozy and intimate restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere, with its view of the marina, candlelit tables, fireplace, waterfront wine, and gourmet snacks. If you are seeking a place to unwind after days of kayaking, hiking, and golfing, this restaurant is it.
The menu features classic American cuisine, focusing on pizza seafood and beer. The restaurant also has a full bar and outdoor seating.
8. Sandpiper Coffee and Ice Cream
This charming café located in the Marina district, offers a range of premium coffee drinks, lattes, and espressos from Java Estate Roastery, smoothies, and ice cream treats.
You can enjoy these luxurious drinks with freshly baked homemade pastries. The outdoor seating area is a popular spot for enjoying a sweet treat or coffee with a view.
9. Oliver’s on The Cape
Located in nearby Southport, Oliver’s on the Cape is known for its delicious food, friendly service, and stunning views of the Cape Fear River. The menu features a range of seafood dishes, including locally caught fish and shrimp, as well as vegetarian options and a kids’ menu.
The restaurant also has a full bar with a selection of wines, beers, and cocktails. Customers can enjoy their meals either inside the cozy dining room or outside on the spacious deck overlooking the ocean. With its relaxed atmosphere and fresh, flavorful cuisine, Oliver’s on the Cape is a must-visit Southport restaurant.
10. Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub
Jules’ Salty Grub & Island Pub can be found at the heart of Bald Head Island Marina and is one of the most happening Bald Head Island restaurants. Jules’ has been welcoming guests to the island’s only waterfront dining experience and It has become a neighborhood harbor hangout and a popular dining spot for island locals, guests, and even pets (thanks to the pet-friendly deck).
Jules’ pays homage to Ebb & Flo’s, the original seafood waterfront favorite on Bald Head Island, by offering their popular ‘Seafood Steampot’ when available.
The rest of the menu boasts a blend of southern classics and seafood with a coastal twist while still offering vegetarian and gluten-free options, and quality comfort food. Y
Plan For Your Trip to the South!
- We like to use VRBO when searching for vacation apartment rentals and Booking.com when searching for hotels.
- See our favorite cooler for the road!
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car for traveling the Carolinas. Check Prices on RentalCars.com
- Our Favorite Travel Shoes: Our answer to this question is always Allbirds.
- Check out our favorite North Carolina Souvenir!
