Mr. P's Bistro
Experience classic Lowcountry dining at Mr. P's Bistro, renowned for fresh seafood, prime rib, and a cozy, coastal atmosphere. A local favorite for a ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
Mr. P's Bistro
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience classic Lowcountry dining at Mr. P's Bistro, renowned for fresh seafood, prime rib, and a cozy, coastal atmosphere. A local favorite for a reason.
Reservations Essential
Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
Don't Miss Appetizers
Start with oysters or the highly recommended crab dip for a delightful beginning.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American (Lowcountry)
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lowcountry Seafood Delights
Savor fresh oysters, crab-stuffed fish, and soft-shell crab, showcasing the best of coastal flavors.
Prime Rib Perfection
The blackened prime rib is a standout, often praised as the best diners have ever had.
Warm & Inviting Atmosphere
Enjoy a historic building with coastal decor and a spacious patio, complemented by friendly staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reservations Essential
Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
Don't Miss Appetizers
Start with oysters or the highly recommended crab dip for a delightful beginning.
Consider Sharing
Appetizers can make a meal; consider sharing to enjoy variety and manage costs.
Sides with a Twist
Vegetable sides are unique; consider salads as an alternative if traditional southern style isn't preferred.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reservations Essential
Book in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
Don't Miss Appetizers
Start with oysters or the highly recommended crab dip for a delightful beginning.
Consider Sharing
Appetizers can make a meal; consider sharing to enjoy variety and manage costs.
Sides with a Twist
Vegetable sides are unique; consider salads as an alternative if traditional southern style isn't preferred.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mr. P's Bistro is celebrated for its exceptional Lowcountry cuisine, particularly its fresh seafood and perfectly cooked prime rib. Diners consistently praise the warm atmosphere and outstanding service, with many highlighting specific servers for elevating their experience. While generally highly rated, some guests have noted that the decor feels a bit dated and have experienced minor service delays during busy periods.
"Was in town for work, and this was highly recommended from a local coworker. We timed it just right, came in on a Tuesday night around 7:30, and we had to wait about 5 minutes. Daily specials sounded great, but I'm a sucker for crab cakes, so I had to get them, and was not disappointed. My wife got the surf and turf with the crab stuffed lobster tail. Staff from the door, to the bar to the waitstaff were all fantastic."
Dustin Fowler
"If you know me, you know I am the pickiest, most selective eater imaginable. Mr P’s went above and beyond from Erica making the most perfect French Martini to customizing a meal for me based on my favorites, with a packed restaurant on a Saturday night chef Stephen went out of his way to create the most phenomenal dish for me. Do yourself a favor make reservations, plan on an experience of a lifetime & do not forget to order the sweet potato brûlée cheesecake which is my now all time favorite dessert! This family run business pulled out all the stops to make my night perfection! Thank you for the best dining experience I’ve had in a long time!!!! I will be back soon & often!"
Morgan Brantley
"The scallops were tasty, but the steak didn’t quite live up to our expectations. It took about 11 minutes before our waitress greeted us, though she was kind and friendly once she did. The restaurant itself feels like it hasn’t seen an update since the 90s, which added to the overall dated vibe. With so many great spots to choose from in town, we’ll likely try somewhere else next time."
Doug Burke
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, reservations are highly recommended and often necessary to secure a table, especially during peak hours and seasons.
Must-tries include the Oysters Rockefeller, crab dip, prime rib, and the crab-stuffed fish of the day.
Yes, many reviewers describe it as a great date night spot with a lovely ambiance and exceptional food.
While the focus is seafood, vegetable sides are available and can be combined. It's best to inquire about specific vegetarian entrees.
The restaurant features coastal-style decor in a historic building, offering a warm and inviting, relaxed fine-dining experience.
Yes, you can often grab drinks at the bar while waiting for your table, and they may note your reservation to add to your bill.
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Off the Beaten Path: Visiting Southport, NC
The next night, Rick recommended his favorite spot — Mr. P’s Bistro, which offered fresh seafood and quality steaks. A Tropitini martini was a perfect start with coconut-flavored rum, splash of Curacao, and dash of pineapple juice. We enjoyed a fried goat-cheese salad, an 8-ounce prime rib, grilled scallops, and uniquely prepared vegetables, including green beans with dill and parmesan, slow-roasted collards, and butter beans with tasso ham.
25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Southport (NC)
It is true that not every restaurant offers delightful seafood, a reason why consumers try to limit their expectations. However, Mr. P’s Bistro is an exception and will not disappoint you. It is not the only seafood restaurant in Southport, but it is the best.
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It is a fact that not every restaurant serves delectable seafood, but Mr. P’s Bistro will not disappoint you. It is not the only seafood restaurant in the city, but it is the best. You can plan a luncheon here and order the bestseller from the menu.
Top Brunswick area Southport Restaurants for 2025
Ports of Call Bistro & Market is a catch-all destination for Southport food lovers of all tastes. Featuring an in-house bakery and market, as well as a dining area that serves up both fresh lunch and dinner selections, this Downtown Southport...
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Another of Southport's bistro restaurants, this one also had a number of mentions for the romance it can bring to date night. Mr. P's is located at 309 N. Howe St. and specializes in seafood, although the prime rib is also a favorite.
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Mr. P’s Bistro is a fine representation of Low Country cuisine, thanks to a long family history in the local Cape Fear seafood industry. Overseen by Executive Chef and the original Mr. P’s son, Stephen...
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We also like Mr. P’s Bistro**, The Pharmacy, **Island Way and Joseph’s (very romantic) for exceptional dining paired with consistent and professional service. The menus are excellent, too.
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