Food Ideas - Oak Island & Southport

Oak Island and Southport Eats You Can’t Miss – We feel like we have barely scratched the service of all of the amazing food options available on Oak Island and in Southport. Here are just a few recommendations that we like:

Seared Ahi Tuna Tacos at Blue Cow Grille (Southport)
Fresh, flavorful, and perfectly seared—these tacos are a coastal dream. Blue Cow nails the balance of spice, crunch, and freshness. Pair them with a cold drink and enjoy the laid-back beach vibes.

Cheeseburger at Fat Andy’s Burger Shack (Southport)
No frills, just the real deal. Fat Andy’s serves up one of the best cheeseburgers around—juicy, cheesy, and cooked just right. It’s a local legend for a reason. NOTE: “No frills” means no frills. They do not have indoor seating.

Pizza and Caesar Salad at Pepperoni Grill (Oak Island)
Whether you're into classic pepperoni or something more adventurous, Pepperoni Grill delivers. Their crust is crisp, the sauce is rich, and the toppings are generous. And don’t skip the Caesar salad—it’s surprisingly amazing, with crisp romaine, bold dressing, and just the right amount of parmesan. A perfect pairing! NOTE: They can get very busy so plan ahead and order online.

Burger and Fries at Little Bit’s Grill (Oak Island)
A cozy throwback spot with an old-school vibe, Little Bit’s Grill is a local favorite for a reason. Their burgers are juicy and flavorful, and the fries are crispy perfection. It’s comfort food done right, and a must-stop for lunch on the island.

Takeaway Seafood Boil at Cape Fear Boil Company (Oak Island)
Skip the restaurant lines and grab a steam pot to-go from Cape Fear Boil Company. Their low-country boils are packed with jumbo shrimp, crab legs, clams, sausage, potatoes, corn, and onions—all seasoned to perfection. Just add water or beer, cook at home, and enjoy a coastal feast without the fuss.

Pad Thai & Pineapple Fried Rice at Thai Noodle House Cuisine (Oak Island)
Located right on East Oak Island Drive, Thai Noodle House Cuisine offers bold, authentic flavors in a cozy setting. Their Pad Thai is a local favorite—savory, slightly sweet, and packed with fresh ingredients. The pineapple fried rice is a tropical twist that’s perfect for takeout or dine-in. NOTE: We have never dined in. We use this as an order and eat at home option.

Yellow Curry at Endochine Express (Southport)
For a flavorful Thai experience, Endochine Express in Southport is a go-to. Their yellow curry is rich, aromatic, and comforting—perfect for dine-in or takeout. The menu blends Thai, Vietnamese, and Asian-fusion dishes with fast service and bold flavors.

Sweet Treats in Downtown Southport

Old-Fashioned Cones at The General Store
Step back in time with a classic cone from The General Store. It’s the perfect nostalgic treat in a charming setting. NOTE: They close early! 5pm so plan accordingly

Upscale Gelato at Haven
For something a little more refined, Haven offers 24 flavors of Italian gelato in a cozy wine bar atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem with a relaxed vibe and top-tier flavors. Check their website for live music.

Sugar Overload at Spike’s Dairy Bar
If you’re craving soft serve, milkshakes, floats, or even shaved ice—Spike’s is your spot. It’s fun, fast, and full of flavor. Bring the kids and prepare for a sugar rush!