28 Best Cocktail Bars in Wilmington

“LOVED it! Excellent drinks, great service and super cute ambiance. Highly recommend!“

“This evening we were excited to bring friends who had never been to Seabird, and it was my wife’s birthday! The food did not disappoint. Our friends loved it. It was good to see a restaurant with a sense of humor when they brought out a “no calorie” birthday cake! (A lit candle stuck to a dessert plate)“

“We were a little disappointed. The food was OK, but it wasn't great. It came out lukewarm. Our pork cheek appetizer didn't have near enough chips to go with it; we didn't ask for more because they appeared to be regular potato chips, not homemade.

The specialty cocktails were not good. Avoid them and just order your regular gi-to drink or a bottle of wine.

The pasta was good, but again, the food wasn't served warm.

Our waitress was good though. Kudos!“

“Both bartenders and bouncers were very professional and friendly. The vibe of the atmosphere and crowd felt fun and safe!“

“We experienced the most amazing food and service last night! We had the wild boar soup, lamp pops with turnip purée, Kangaroo steak and Duck confit both with mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts! EVERYTHING, and I mean everything was on point! The most awesome flavors and the seasoning was perfect! Thank you so much!!! We will be back!!! ☺️“

“This unique cocktail bar was recommended to us by a friend and we’re so glad we stopped in this weekend! We love the atmosphere and the cocktails were top notch! I tried a couple different drinks the bartender recommended and my husband said it was the best Old Fashion he’s ever had. We quickly decided to become members and will be back hopefully soon!!“

“Lots of fun, great band, service not so great….waited 30 minutes at the bar to get waited on ☹️☹️☹️“

“My husband and I have been looking for an authentic feeling of a British pub and this is it for us! Best in Wilmington!“

“local bar with good people.“

“Awesome parking access. Very noticeable entrance with a cozy outside setting and a beautiful atmosphere inside with a fully stocked bar , booths and a billards table. The bartender was attentive , friendly and provided excellent customer service.“

“Great drinks, staff and atmosphere!“

“Too many positives to mention. Friendly and attentive staff, high quality and delicious food and a great atmosphere“

“Stopped in around 2:30. Bartender and GM Lexi very friendly. Dwayne(The Rock)Johnson guarding the front door.“

“Fabulous addition to the neighborhood with great food and atmosphere . Super brunching !“

“Evening was perfect! We were only stopping for a drink and the sunset?
The views are secondary to the service/food-and atmosphere.
Tyler the manager was as engaging as his staff.
He sat with us and others throughout the restaurant. Felt like we were having a dinner party at a Friend’s house. Who just happens to live on the water.“

“Hidden gem! We lucked out as we were driving in to town and read the reviews but there was no availability online. Stopped by anyways and our luck there had been reservation canceled. Amazing fresh catch of the day and preparation. Service was amazing.“

“The atmosphere is the best around and the drinks are fantastic. We can’t wait to return back.“

“From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with a stunning interior—elegant, cozy, and thoughtfully designed. The atmosphere alone sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. The food? Absolutely delicious. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and the portions were generous enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites. It’s clear the kitchen takes pride in their craft. To top it off, the service was outstanding—attentive, friendly, and efficient without being overbearing. It’s rare to find a place where everything comes together so seamlessly. Without a doubt, I’ll be back for more. Highly recommend!“

“Great music and awesome stout“

“I love Ibis so much and really would recommend it to everyone - BUT since it's opening it has had terrible wifi connection. I know this is a problem with many others. I barely come here anymore because I often go to cafes to do a little bit of work. Currently writing this because I just missed a work meeting while here.

I do however recommend this place 100%. I love the atmosphere and music.“

“Farm to table meats, seafood and vegetables !! The octopus was amazing !! Great atmosphere !!“

“Great cocktails, a varied wine list, outstanding food, fun music and relaxed atmosphere. So glad we had dinner here!“

“Went here tonight gor the first time. We ordered a special and loved every bite. Beautifully presented and flavor profiles were were fabulous. We look forward to returning. Our server was delightful. Unfortunately cannot remember her name.“

“always the best! my go to favorite seafood place I have never had a bad meal there!“

“Varnish is hands down the best bar in Wilmington! The bartenders are the best in all of downtown—they’re fast, friendly, and always make sure you’re having a great time. The venue itself is the perfect size—big enough to keep the energy high but never so packed that you feel like you’re missing out. Even if there’s a line, it moves quickly, so you never have to wait long to get in and be part of the fun. The door staff is always on point, making sure things stay safe and enjoyable for everyone. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I can’t recommend Varnish enough!“

“Delicious food, menu variety, friendly staff, & great location on the River.“

“Wonderful service from Tyler! Made our night!“

“very good.i love it so much“