16 Best American Restaurants in Surf City

“Great food, even better people and atmosphere. As locals, we are weekly visitors. (well maybe more like three times a week on occasion.) We have NEVER not been satisfied. Ask my husband- it’s hard for ME to be satisfied. lol. But truthfully this is a gem of a spot, and consider yourself lucky if they get to know you and your order. Because this is “that kinda place”“

“We went for the first time during Christmas 2025 while it was decorated. It looked like a small Angus Barn. Every inch was decorated for Christmas. Wonderful atmosphere to sit in and enjoy the holidays. The food was excellent and the service was great! Highly recommend!“

“My husband and son and I went Saturday for dinner and as always, it was delicious. The crab dip always spot on and the best around. A special Thank You to Tanner our server, he was awesome and did such a wonderful job and made sure everything was spot on for us to have a relaxing and enjoyable dinner. Tanner you were awesome and your personality and how you deal with your customers was great, please keep that up. My heart went out to you and I felt bad after the table next to us ran you and spent $200 if not more and left you such a crap tip, that was so wrong. But don't let people like that discourage you, keep doing you, because you were great!!!“

“Stopped in for a sweet treat. The ice cream selection is amazing, you get big scoops too. The employees were friendly and professional. Will definitely stop back in on our next visit to the Island.“

“This place is the best ! They have such a great selection of food and drinks and the outside seating is perfect on a nice day ❤️“

“This was delicious. The owner is super nice and answered all of our questions as we are from the mountains of NC so oysters are not an everyday thing for us. Our waitress was very informed and stayed on top of our service. We are very happy with our experience and we will absolutely be back. Thank y’all so much.“

“The best meal of the week. Seasoned perfectly and great portions. We even have leftovers for our last night at the beach. Treat yo’self and get a Topsail Steamer bucket!“

“The burgers and sides we ordered were amazing!“

“Talk about working UNDER PRESSURE! These girls did such a good job on a high stress rush with SO many people. They all made sure to greet every customer, and wish them a good day when completing the order. We love coming here and Sunrise Bagel next door every vacation, typically we come much earlier in the morning so this is the first time we’ve come during a rush. Always remember to be patient and kind, they’re doing all they can to give you the best results! 🍩💗“

“We eat here every time we come to Surf City, we are down most weekends. We’ve never been disappointed. All the food is delicious. We normally pick up supper to go but will dine in on occasion. It’s a family friendly restaurant, I never worry about taking my children in. Highly recommended!“

“This place has great food! I tried the ribs tonight and so tender and good flavor! Also good service! Definitely recommend!!“

“We finally got away from the kids, we were looking for quiet, upscale, on the water ,with fresh seafood. Sears landing delivered all of that with extra creds. The service was attentive, the food was outstanding, and the atmosphere down by the water was very laid back.“

“Everything!!! We love eating here when we’re on the island 🌭🥰“

“I get the breakfast sandwich, eggs over easy, cheese and a sausage patty. I’ve ordered this before at other restaurants and NYCD is the only place that gets over easy right. Gooey and runny, just the way a perfect breakfast should be! Of all the places on and off island, this is the one to go to. Highly recommended! 💕“

“The shrimp po boy, was delicious!! Service is quick!!“

“Great ladies night at Beauchaines! Food and service were both excellent and best Dirty Martini in town. Thanks for keeping the Filet Fondue. My favorite!“