River 128 Restaurant
Upscale riverfront dining with stunning views of the Cape Fear River, offering coastal seafood and American cuisine. Perfect for special occasions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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River 128 Restaurant
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Upscale riverfront dining with stunning views of the Cape Fear River, offering coastal seafood and American cuisine. Perfect for special occasions.
"Enjoy amazing river views and delicious food at this upscale downtown Wilmington destination."
Visit in good weather
Enjoy the scenic views fully by visiting on days with pleasant weather for outdoor seating.
Consider seafood options
Reviews suggest seafood dishes like PEI mussels are often better than burgers or chicken.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
American, Seafood, Southern
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Stunning Riverfront Views
Dine with breathtaking views of the Cape Fear River, especially from the outdoor patio seating areas.
Upscale Coastal & American Fare
Experience upscale dining with a menu featuring coastal seafood and American classics. Highlights include mussels and fried chicken.
Elegant Atmosphere
This restaurant offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for date nights or celebrations with its modern design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visit in good weather
Enjoy the scenic views fully by visiting on days with pleasant weather for outdoor seating.
Consider seafood options
Reviews suggest seafood dishes like PEI mussels are often better than burgers or chicken.
Ideal for celebrations
A great spot for special occasions like birthdays, with a beautiful sunset view.
Boat docking available
Convenient boat docking is available for diners arriving by water.
Tips
from all over the internet
Visit in good weather
Enjoy the scenic views fully by visiting on days with pleasant weather for outdoor seating.
Consider seafood options
Reviews suggest seafood dishes like PEI mussels are often better than burgers or chicken.
Ideal for celebrations
A great spot for special occasions like birthdays, with a beautiful sunset view.
Boat docking available
Convenient boat docking is available for diners arriving by water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Diners praise River 128 for its stunning riverfront location and upscale atmosphere, making it ideal for celebrations and romantic evenings. While many enjoy dishes like the shrimp and grits and crab cakes, some reviews mention inconsistent food quality and higher prices. Service is generally good, though one review highlights a significant issue with inattentive staff during a busy holiday.
"Loved it here. The atmosphere was great! Right on the river, 2 outdoor seating options, lower deck which is more in the sun and upper deck that is covered. Inside seating was also available. The hostesses were very nice along with the waitress. The food was good. I got the shrimp and grits and it was very tasty. My husband got the filet and got mashed potatoes with it. The filet was wonderful but the potatoes were extremely bland. No flavor or salt at all. The calamari was also very good. We will definitely be back!"
Ashley Hester
"This was our first time dining at River 128 Restaurant. We chose an outdoor table. Great views of the river. We had a Garlic Shrimp appetizer, Blackened Catfish, and Australian Rack of Lamb with a side of Truffle Mac N Cheese. Food was excellent, our server Ivori was attentive. They were out of Oysters and Duck, so we'll be back to try those dishes and their Ravioli."
Rob Longo
"I’ve been here a couple times and everytime it’s been at least a 4 or better on the food. These may well be the best crab cakes in the city the salmons good too. I also liked the crab and lobster dip. It’s been my go too lately food is pretty good."
Jay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
River 128 offers an upscale yet inviting atmosphere with modern design, perfect for romantic evenings and celebrations.
Yes, River 128 has outdoor patio seating with stunning river views, ideal for enjoying good weather.
The restaurant serves upscale coastal seafood and American fare, with some Southern influences.
Diners often recommend seafood options like PEI mussels, as well as crab cakes and shrimp and grits.
Complimentary parking is available at this dog-friendly restaurant.
Yes, boat docking is available for guests dining at the restaurant.
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At The George, southern hospitality and seasonal cuisine meet scenic river views, creating an unforgettable weekend brunch experience Wilmington has been swooning over for years. The attentive staff elevates every moment, ensuring each meal is efficient yet enjoyable. Indulge in their twist on oysters Rockefeller with chorizo, onion confit, garlic aioli, and fried garlic to start things off with a bang.
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The George on the Riverwalk offers an upscale dining experience with seafood and other American fare, while the Pilot House Restaurant serves seafood with a Southern flair in a restored 19th-century house. There’s also Elijah’s, a casual American grill and oyster bar and Nema Eatery and Lounge that offers innovative dishes including vegan options.
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Dock and dine at The George on the Riverwalk, a true Wilmington restaurant in the heart of downtown on the bank of the historic Cape Fear River. Their menu covers the best in Southern Coastal cuisine, including fresh local seafood, steaks, pasta, chicken, and salads. Complimentary parking is available at this dog-friendly restaurant.
Wilmington’s Best Outdoor Patio Dining
Modern, elegant, and right on the river—River 128 brings big flavor and even bigger views to downtown Wilmington. Their upscale yet inviting patio makes the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening. It’s ideal for date nights, celebrations, or just because the weather’s too perfect to dine inside!
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If you want to swap out the sweets for something a little stronger, consider a nightcap at The George, located on the historic downtown Wilmington waterfront. Enjoy the patio’s more relaxed setting and river views, or head inside for a more formal experience.
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Situated at the southern end of the Riverwalk, with the perfect view of the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge, this iconic establishment embraces a sense of southern charm while crafting a menu evocative of the North Carolina coast.
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Formerly known as The George on the Riverwalk, the owners renovated and renamed this restaurant earlier in 2025. The new menu still includes a lot of the favorites, as well as more steaks and new southern coastal dishes.
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