15 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”“

“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 ❤️“

“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!“

“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.“

“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!!!“

“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! 🍩💗“

“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.“

“The food was EXCELLENT, but we hardly ever saw the waitresse and she kept forgetting to do the things she said she would do. She didn't make much contact with customers. I would go back to this restaurant for the food, but I can't pay a generous tip when we have to keep tracking her down for water refills. (We gave up on the dressing and silverware.)“

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

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

“The cookie dough chocolate chip is AWESOME! Alsoooo not to mention the girl serving was super cuteeeee (might be because she’s my girlfriend or something idk 🤷) but GREAT service! They had a movie playing!!!! AND THEY HAVE AN AIRHOCKEY TABLE!!!! WOOO-HOOOO“

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

“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! 💕“