If you find yourself in Surf City, NC, and crave a taste of authentic coastal flavor, look no further than the charming streets of Old Settlers Beach. Nestled between beach cottages and the gentle sway of the Atlantic, this neighborhood boasts a surprisingly dynamic food scene that delights locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re an early riser seeking artisanal pastries or someone who loves tracking down a late-night taco truck, Old Settlers Beach is packed with memorable dining experiences—many just steps from the sand. Let’s dive into the must-try restaurants, cozy cafés, mouthwatering bakeries, and iconic food trucks that make this neighborhood a true culinary gem.
Where Foodies Gather: The Core of Old Settlers Beach
Most of Old Settlers Beach’s best dining spots cluster along South Shore Drive, with several hidden gems just off the two main intersections at Roland Avenue and Old Settlers Lane. This makes for a walkable foodie adventure—perfect after a sunny day on the beach.
Standout Restaurants
- Pier House Grill (100 S Shore Dr.)
Right near the historic Surf City Ocean Pier, Pier House Grill is as “Surf City” as it gets. Famous for their fresh-off-the-boat seafood (try the blackened mahi mahi sandwich!) and legendary hush puppies, locals rave about their reasonable prices and casual, beachy vibe. It’s ideal for families or a laid-back lunch with friends.
- Sandpiper Oyster Bar (Corner of Old Settlers Ln & S Shore Dr.)
Don’t miss this local legend for raw bar specialties and Lowcountry classics. The oysters—sourced from nearby waters—come in a dozen ways (grilled, baked, raw, Rockefeller-style) and shine alongside fried shrimp baskets and tangy seafood boils. Expect moderate prices and a close-knit, friendly vibe that practically guarantees you’ll see familiar faces.
- La Sirena Cantina (120 Old Settlers Ln)
A true Old Settlers hidden gem, La Sirena is a cozy and colorful Mexican eatery beloved for its from-scratch guacamole and Baja fish tacos. Their margaritas win awards, and the menu boasts a number of gluten-free and vegan choices, making it easy for everyone to find something delicious. Prices are midrange, and the vibrant patio is perfect for sunset dining.
- The Settler’s Table (Just off S Shore Dr.)
Tucked into a converted historic home, Settler’s Table nails farm-to-table comfort food, with a daily-changing menu highlighting local produce and Carolina-raised meats. Open for weekend brunch (don’t miss their pimento cheese biscuits!) and dinner, this candle-lit spot is the neighborhood’s go-to for a romantic date or special occasion.
Cozy Cafés and Sweet Spots
- Wave Café & Juice Bar (S Shore Dr. near the pier)
Fuel your morning surf check with cold-pressed juices, smoothie bowls, and locally roasted coffee at this bright, surfer-friendly hangout. In addition to healthy eats, Wave offers a light breakfast and exceptional avocado toast—great for plant-based diners and brunchers alike.
- Old Settlers Bakery (Roland Ave & Old Settlers Ln)
With the irresistible scent of cinnamon rolls and scones wafting down the street, you can’t miss Old Settlers Bakery. Their pecan sticky buns are legendary, and the daily rotating case features decadent cupcakes, tarts, and gluten-free lemon bars. Don’t leave without picking up a loaf of their sea-salt sourdough.
- Mariner’s Ice Cream Wagon (seasonally on Old Settlers Ln)
A food truck with a cult following, Mariner’s Ice Cream Wagon rolls up every afternoon in summer, serving hand-churned ice cream, frozen custard, and creative popsicles in flavors like roasted peach or Carolina honeycomb. Kids and adults line up all season for a sweet treat after a hot beach day.
The Food Truck Scene
- Sirena’s Street Eats (usually parked at S Shore Dr. public access)
If you’re craving bold flavors without the wait for a table, Sirena’s offers killer shrimp po’ boys, BBQ nachos, and vegetarian sweet potato tacos. It’s affordable (most dishes under $10), lightning quick, and ideal for a casual picnic on the dunes.
- Benny’s BBQ on Wheels (weekends at Old Settlers Ln & Atlantic Ave)
Benny’s is a Surf City tradition—serving slow-smoked pulled pork, tangy slaw, and hefty brisket sandwiches that keep folks coming back. Arrive early for his famous ribs; they sell out fast.
Local Traditions & Culinary Events
Old Settlers Beach is more than its eateries—it’s a neighborhood with a true sense of culinary community. Every spring, the Old Settlers Seafood Shindig draws crowds for an all-day oyster roast and chowder cookoff. In summer, “Beach Eats Under the Palms” gathers local food trucks and musicians every Friday on the green at the corner of Roland Ave and S Shore Dr.
Another tradition: sunset “tailgate” dinners by the public access dunes, where locals pick up takeout, spread blankets, and swap bites with neighbors while the sky turns gold.
Hidden Gems & Off-the-Beaten-Path
- Pelican Pocket Deli (Just off S Shore Dr.)
Easy to miss and impossible to forget, this tiny deli is revered for its overstuffed hoagies, hot pressed paninis, and the area’s best pickles. It’s cash-only, and the “secret” chipotle mayo spread is a local legend.
- The Dockside Kitchen (near canal access, Old Settlers east end)
Only open weekends and known mostly to in-the-know locals, Dockside Kitchen serves sunrise breakfast sandwiches, shrimp & grits, and cinnamon coffee rolls from a back porch overlooking the marsh. It’s unpretentious and utterly soulful.
Taste the Best of Old Settlers Beach
Dining in Old Settlers Beach is as much about local charm and laid-back hospitality as it is about the food itself. From celebratory seafood feasts to simple ice cream cones under the Carolina sky, you’ll quickly see why this Surf City neighborhood is a food lover’s paradise. So grab your flip-flops, follow the salty air, and put these iconic stops on your list—Old Settlers’ food scene is sure to win your heart (and appetite) year-round.