Opened by famous North Carolina chef Vivian Howard, Benny’s Big Time pairs friendly expert service with reclaimed wooden walls and a savory Italian menu. From scallop crudo with English peas and mint to wood-fired Neapolitan pizza layered in melty Grayson cheese and swirls of hot honey—Benny’s is happy and lively, good for the stomach and the soul.

Chicken tinga empanadas? Local little neck clams with fava bean shoots? Charred octopus with mole verde and ancho-dusted popcorn? Sign us up. Sam Cahoon and Aldo Garcia are slinging something special at local Latin joint Savorez and they are not afraid of raining tiny edible flowers over every colorful dish.

Penny-tile floors, giant windows, floating shelves stocked with vintage thermoses? Must be Bespoke, our favorite any-time-of-day cafe where talented baristas pour perfect espresso tonics and oatmilk macchiato’s care of Counter Culture coffee. Come for the caffeine, stay for the vegan cinnamon buns from local bakery Cravings.

Just around the corner, the Dram Yard courtyard is the place to go for clean creative cocktails, local beer, and a well-curated wine selection. The inside restaurant offers a delightful menu heavy on fresh vegetables and seafood. Wilmington’s annual “Downtown Sundown” free concert series takes place right next door.