New Bern, North Carolina, isn’t just a historical treasure; it’s a culinary adventure waiting to be savored. Nestled at the meeting point of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, this charming city boasts a surprisingly vibrant food scene that caters to every palate. From freshly caught seafood to comforting Southern classics, from casual bites to elegant dining experiences, New Bern offers a diverse range of flavors that are sure to delight any food lover. If you’re planning a visit or are a resident looking to explore the local culinary landscape, this guide will lead you to the very best food in New Bern NC, ensuring a memorable gastronomic journey. Forget the tourist traps, we’ll point you towards the true hidden gems.
Seafood Sensations: Where to Find the Freshest Catches
Given its prime location near the coast, New Bern naturally excels in seafood. Restaurants here take full advantage of the bounty of the Atlantic, offering dishes prepared with the freshest ingredients. The emphasis is on simple preparations that allow the natural flavors to shine, though you’ll also find inventive dishes that showcase culinary creativity. Finding the best food in New Bern NC often means tracking down the freshest seafood.
The Chelsea Restaurant
This waterfront gem offers stunning views alongside a menu that is heavily focused on seasonal seafood. With both indoor and outdoor seating, The Chelsea provides an experience perfect for a romantic dinner or a casual lunch with friends. Their grilled tuna is a must-try, perfectly seared and served with a vibrant citrus salsa. The shrimp and grits, a Southern staple, is elevated to new heights with locally sourced shrimp and creamy, stone-ground grits. The average meal price is in the mid-range. You can find them located at 335 Middle St, New Bern, NC 28560. Look them up on the web for hours and more information.
Captain Ratty’s Seafood Grill
A New Bern institution, Captain Ratty’s is known for its lively atmosphere and generous portions. It has great views over the Trent River from its rooftop bar. While they offer a broad menu, their seafood is the star. The fried oysters are crispy and succulent, and the crab cakes are packed with sweet, lump crab meat. If you are looking for something a bit less fried, then the baked Mahi-mahi is a good pick, especially with the chef’s special sauce. They are priced moderately, offering good value. Check out their website for directions and hours of operation.
MJ’s Raw Bar & Grille
While a bit further from the downtown waterfront, MJ’s Raw Bar offers the best in seasonal seafood and also a place to try the best food New Bern NC has to offer. They are experts in raw oysters. If you like the raw bar selections, try the special MJ’s oyster sampler. You will get a taste of every variety of oyster they have on hand. A fun spot for seafood lovers.
Southern Comfort: Heartwarming Classics and Soulful Flavors
No exploration of the best food in New Bern NC is complete without indulging in Southern comfort food. This region is steeped in culinary tradition, and many restaurants proudly uphold the legacy of hearty, flavorful dishes that warm the soul. Think crispy fried chicken, creamy mac and cheese, and tender collard greens.
The Flame Catering and Banquet Center
While primarily a catering business, the attached restaurant, known locally as The Flame, offers a home-style buffet most days. You can find classic southern BBQ, friend chicken, collard greens, and a multitude of other side dishes. A hidden gem when it comes to getting the best food in New Bern NC and at a price that is hard to beat.
The Country Biscuit
Don’t let the name fool you, The Country Biscuit is more than just a biscuit shop. They have a wide assortment of Southern favorites. From pork chops to smothered chicken, you can fill your plate and your belly with the best of Southern cuisine. If you like a traditional Southern breakfast, then they’ve got you covered there too!
Famous Restaurant
This casual spot has been serving up homestyle food since 1955. There is almost always a crowd there and for good reason! You can find a plate of any Southern food that you desire, from collards to ham hocks to fried okra! They also serve delicious baked beans. They are located on Broad Street and well worth the visit.
Casual Bites: Pizza, Burgers, and More for a Quick and Delicious Meal
Sometimes, you’re just looking for a quick and satisfying meal without all the fuss. New Bern has plenty of casual dining options that deliver on taste and convenience. From perfectly crafted pizzas to juicy burgers, you’ll find a variety of choices to satisfy your cravings.
Bear Town Burgers and Dogs
If you are looking for a great burger, hot dog, or cheesesteak, then Bear Town Burgers and Dogs is the place to be. Not just a convenient stop, this shop makes some of the best comfort food in town, including a loaded tater tot dish that will fill you up. They are committed to quality and it shows in everything they make.
Pizzeria Antonio
New Bern may not be known for its pizza, but Pizzeria Antonio will definitely change your mind! Located on Broad Street, this pizzeria makes some of the best pizza in the state, and does so with fresh ingredients and old-world techniques. If you like a good pie, don’t pass this place by!
The Bruin – Craft Beer and Bottle Shop
The Bruin has dozens of different beers on tap and a large selection of bottle beers from across the world, but what many people don’t know is that they serve fantastic burgers. Their burger bar is open most afternoons and evenings and it’s hard to beat one of their juicy burgers paired with a cold beer.
Fine Dining: Elevated Culinary Experiences
For those seeking a more refined dining experience, New Bern offers several restaurants that deliver exceptional cuisine, impeccable service, and a sophisticated atmosphere. These establishments often feature innovative menus, locally sourced ingredients, and carefully curated wine lists.
Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant
Perched on the banks of the Trent River, Persimmons provides not only beautiful views but also a memorable dining experience. Their menu features contemporary American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their chefs are known to create masterpieces, especially with their special tasting menus, where you can experience the best the restaurant has to offer. The restaurant is on the higher end price-wise, but well worth it!
Baker’s Kitchen Restaurant and Bar
While more casual than Persimmons, Baker’s Kitchen still offers a high-end dining experience. The restaurant strives to find fresh local ingredients and change their menus to be seasonal. They are open for lunch and dinner and the menus are creative and impressive.
Breakfast and Brunch: Starting Your Day Right
Whether you’re a fan of classic breakfast fare or prefer a more indulgent brunch, New Bern has plenty of options to kickstart your day. From fluffy pancakes to savory omelets, you’ll find the perfect spot to satisfy your morning cravings.
The Grind Cafe
As a coffee shop, you know The Grind can offer excellent coffee. But, what you might not know is that their breakfast sandwiches are out of this world. With excellent eggs, cheese, and bacon, you can get the perfect breakfast sandwich to start your day and get a coffee to boot!
The Chelsea Restaurant
The Chelsea is not only great for dinner, but brunch too! They have a wide assortment of seafood and traditional brunch staples. Don’t miss the opportunity to have a great meal with a beautiful view.
Sweet Treats: Indulging Your Sweet Tooth
No culinary journey is complete without a stop for dessert. New Bern boasts a variety of bakeries and ice cream shops that offer delectable treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Bear Town Fudge Co.
Nothing beats a homemade fudge. Bear Town Fudge Co. makes a variety of fudge right on site and it is one of the best places in town to get dessert. With flavors that vary from chocolate to peanut butter to pecan, you can find a fudge to suit every taste.
Savi’s Ice Cream
Located on Pollock Street, Savi’s makes fresh ice cream every day. With unique flavors and combinations, you can always find something interesting on their ever-changing menu. They also do a fantastic job with the classics!
As you can see, New Bern is more than just a charming historical town, it’s a true culinary destination. The city offers an amazing range of options for all tastes and budgets. Whether you are looking for the best food New Bern NC has to offer in terms of seafood or want something more in line with Southern comfort, the city has a restaurant for you. So, next time you are in town, don’t hesitate to explore all of the culinary wonder the city has to offer. You won’t be disappointed!
Don’t just take my word for it – explore the restaurants mentioned in this guide and discover your own favorite culinary gems in New Bern! And, if you have your own recommendation, feel free to leave it in the comments below. Let’s share our expertise and let everyone benefit from the knowledge!
