What a fantastic evening at Dram Yard. We were a little concerned we might miss our 5:30 reservation after getting delayed by a seven-car accident on the bridge, but we arrived just a couple of minutes late and it wasn't an issue at all. From the moment we arrived, the experience was relaxed, welcoming, and exactly what we needed. We chose to sit in the beautiful courtyard, and with temperatures in the 70s, sunshine overhead, and a gentle breeze, it couldn't have been a more perfect setting. The outdoor gazebo bar creates a wonderful atmosphere for enjoying a cocktail before dinner, and if the weather isn't cooperating, the indoor dining space is equally inviting. A special thank you to Sarah, whose service was outstanding. She was cheerful, attentive, and genuinely seemed happy to be there. The restaurant wasn't crowded, which made for a peaceful and unhurried dining experience. For drinks, I ordered the Ghost Town, while my wife enjoyed the Venus Flytrap. Both were beautifully prepared and easy to see why they're among the restaurant's popular cocktails. The food was equally impressive. I had the Spaghetti Carbonara, and it was exceptional. The kitchen even accommodated my request for extra freshly cracked black pepper, which took an already excellent dish to another level. My wife ordered the Little Gem Salad with shrimp, and it was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly prepared. We also shared the Tuna Tartare Tostada, which was outstanding--beautiful presentation, fresh tuna, and a great balance of textures and flavors. Adding to the experience was a bottle of Albariño that paired wonderfully with the meal. What stands out most about Dram Yard is its atmosphere. It's the kind of place where you can settle in, slow down, enjoy a handcrafted cocktail, and forget about the stresses of the day. Whether you're looking for a date night, an evening with friends, or simply a quiet place to relax, Dram Yard delivers. Excellent service, creative cocktails, outstanding food, and one of the most relaxing outdoor dining spaces in Wilmington. We'll definitely be back. read more

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This was the 3rd time we've been here. The first two times we did not make it to the table because of the service. They generally do not care about the customer at all. The star of the show is definitely the food. The chef is super proud of his food, and he should be. The only reason I'm giving this a 4 on food instead of a 5 is because there was no iced tea (in the summer in the carolinas - not really forgivable) the water was nasty and the biscuits on my Benedict were towards the burnt side on the bottom. Honestly, everything otherwise was amazing. What was really great: The restaurant itself is AMAZING! It's like being transported to a Parisian cafe. I love that when you walk in, you immediately see the fully in view kitchen. I'm assuming a chef owns the restaurant and designed the layout. The patio is quaint and delightful and surprisingly private for a downtown sidewalk restaurant. The eggs on my Eggs Benedict could not have been more perfect. I'm not a fried potato person; however, the pan fried potatoes here are mostly whole and they are out of this world. They were exceedingly crispy on the outside and completely soft on the inside. My son ordered the dutch baby. It was delicious. The accompanied fruit was perfect and truly ripe. I feel like they would have to toss a lot of fruit to get the ones that were truly that perfect. What did not work: The water - it was about 85 degrees out and humid. There is nothing here refreshing. Water is served European style meaning no ice and out of the tap. Warm tap water on a hot day in South Carolina is just nasty. It's ironic that while Europeans visiting the US for the World Cup are posting social media reels raving about ice in drinks in the United States, meanwhile The Dram Yard is insisting on pulling all of the worst parts of eating out in Europe into their restaurant. I truly dislike restaurants that serve canned and bottled beverages. It screams, "nickel and dime". If you bought your cans of soda at Costco and charged $4.00 for a can, I'd have to drink 9 cans before you're losing money. There is literally no reason to limit beverages other than driving higher profits. I hate price gouging. At the very least get a fountain and serve iced tea. SERVICE - the service staff simply makes you feel like they're doing you a favor by being open. Don't expect anything after that. When we arrived, the restaurant was at about 25% capacity with 2 food servers, who also double as the hostess. After waiting 10 minutes to be seated (yes...even at 25% capacity), service truly went downhill from there. It wasn't that the staff was rude. They were just not present and extremely slow. It honestly seemed like they were doing everything they could to not be seen. We needed salt, a refill of the water carafe and our check. That was it. The staff would come to our part of the dining room but then not even glance around or come by to see if we needed anything. I'm giving them a 2 because they were exceedingly slow and not present. When we did chase them down, I felt rude asking for help. The chef delivered our food. He was very proud and should be. However, here's the rub. The chef needs to learn that being in the restaurant business is not only about creating great food. It also requires front of house service and an overall dining experience that people are happy with. Right now, I'm walking away feeling: 1. great food and great atmosphere 2. terrible service 3. nickle and dimed me on drinks 4. doesn't have the sense to serve iced tea in the Caronlinas So - as much as I loved the food - there are too many restaurants in Wilmington that are good enough to overcome 2, 3 and 4 above. The Dram could be fixed so easily: 1. hire servers who want to be there and smile a little 2. put ice in your water 3. serve iced tea - at least in the summer months 4. get a soda fountain - it's 2026 Unfortunately, we won't be back because there are simply other options that, at the very least, hit 1, 2 and 3 with good food. read more

I've been to the Dram Yard a few times for cocktails at the outdoor bar and have always loved the drinks and the atmosphere with the fire pits but hadn't eaten dinner until last night. The whole experience was perfect. We had to wait a few minutes for our table to be ready. It was such a minimal wait that I didn't think anything of it. Our waitress came over to our table, apologized, and said they'd be sending out their little gem salad and brussel sprouts. Both appetizers were plenty for four of us. The salad was romaine lettuce with fish roe and had a umami style to it that I really enjoyed. The Brussels were exceptional. I'm a big fan normally and these were by far some of the best I've had. For cocktails I tried the man of war and the ghost town which was complex and amazing. For dinner I tried the fish of the day, which were scallops from Maine with ancient grains and a small green salad. The scallops were rich tasting and succulent. My husband had the burger and said it was really good. The whole dining experience was exceptional. The servers were attentive yet knew how to pace our experience. We never felt rushed or imposed upon or forgotten. With all the restaurant choices in Wilmington, Dram Yard rises to the top. read more

Aesthetics: 10/10. Bartender friendliness: 2/10, which frankly hampered the entire experience, especially staying as a guest. Menu was unique and not necessarily a crowd pleaser for all eaters. The espresso martini was bitter to an extent that I felt like I was just drinking espresso in a bitter mood. Could've used some love and a little sweetener. Chicken dumpling meal was unique but I wouldn't necessarily order again. The strip, IMO, was delicious -- just could've been coated a teeny bit less in curry to make my mom happy. If you're looking for a unique meal, you'll find it here for certain. However, I was hoping for something a bit more southern. They had another cocktail -- something with a bug name, that was next level. That alone won the experience for me (plus the oysters!) read more

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First timers here. We went on a Monday evening around 5pm. Made reservations, but coming that early off season is not necessary. Service was excellent. Drinks are pricy but good. My wife chose the Shrimp and Grits. I had the Smash Burger. Both were excellent. Neither of us had eaten that day, so there were no survivors or doggie bags to go. We killed it. Very good. I would recommend. read more

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Ben trying to eat here for a while. Great spot outside or inside. There is a small bar outside with fire pits. Services was great. Food came out fast and the flavors were great. It's a must try if you in Wilmington. Seabird has competition!! . read more

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We enjoyed a breakfast at Dram Yard on a Sunday morning; they usually have a longer brunch menu on Sundays but they were short staffed so we didn't get access to that menu. Nonetheless, our breakfast was tasty; everyone praised the flavor. The ambiance is unique, with elements of decor layered together in an artful manner. We all loved our experience there, and the waitress was attentive too. I'd love to return. read more

Great spot for date night. They say the menu items are meant to share and come out as they're ready, which felt a little awkward when our entree-ish items came out at different times. I had the chicken and dumplings, which was perfect for a chilly evening. Everything that our group ordered was great from the market fish to lamb and burger. I was disappointed there weren't any mocktails on the menu because I wasn't drinking, but the cocktails sounded good. atmosphere is upscale and modern. Looking forward to going back to try more! read more

The duck fat donuts and the breakfast burrito 10/10 for ambience, food, service I'll be back! read more

Dram Yard - New American Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

This is the second time I have been here and I was extremely happy both times, the atmosphere is upscale casual is a great vibe I had different drinks both times I came and yummmmmm to both the kind you think about after you have gone home a week later .... the meals chefs kiss to every single thing I have ever tasted or tried from sharing tastes with who I have gone with because we insist you have to try this because it's so good or hey that looks so good can I have a taste !! They have an amazing outdoor fire pit courtyard so yes please to outdoor drinks !!! Don't miss them gem I love it here !oh and just an FYI I have always had very friendly service ! read more

Food was cold had shrimp and grits and the grits were cold and lumpy. Had steak tartare as an app and it had burnt chips and no seasoning at all. Wait staff was good very attentive. Place is really nice the food was a huge disappointment. read more

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Love Love LOVE the Dram Yard! We went here for breakfast and my farro dish was one of my favorite things I ate in Wilmington. My friends loved there dishes as well and we all agreed we will be back here for sure. The location is ideal and the decor is just downright adorable - love the bar with the old post office boxes. Someone put a lot of care into the decor of this place and it shows. read more

I don't normally post reviews, but this was a particularly disappointing experience. Weeks in advance, I spoke directly with a manager to reserve a table for 10 people for my engagement dinner. It was the first time my fiancé's family and mine would be meeting, so it was very important to me. I even followed up a week prior to confirm, and everything was supposed to be set. When we arrived, however, the restaurant had booked two separate tables of five instead of seating us together. The manager on duty was different from the one I initially spoke with and said they couldn't make any accommodations. Nothing was offered to remedy the situation, not even a time adjustment or comp, and because of this poor attitude we were left to find another restaurant to host all of us at the last minute. I understand that mistakes happen, but with my own restaurant experience, I know there were options to try to accommodate us. At the very least try and offer assistance or comps. I suggest the restaurant improve its reservation confirmation strategy, because I can't see a circumstance where anyone would book a reservation to sit separately. They should have caught that early. Unfortunately, this situation disrupted a very special moment, and I won't be returning. read more

This was an amazing experience. I sat at the bar because I'm in town for work. I got the Venus Fly Trap for a cocktail and it was delicious. Light and refreshing but gave me a decent buzz! I was debating my between the burger and the steak frites and was happy with my decision. The steak was truly medium rare paired with a yummy sauce and crispy fries. I also received impeccable service. Great food, tasty drinks, and a wonderful ambiance. read more

Dram Yard - Steak Frites - New American Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Great food and service. Ambiance is perfect. Highly recommend for a great brunch with friends.

A wonderful dining experience and one of my best meals of 2025. A great environment that was clearly curated in a way to convey a relaxed/current vibe that matches perfectly with the food and service! My litmus test is their ability to make a great Manhattan and they did that PLUS they upped it with the introduction of a Man-O-War...you should try one. It is clear that the bar team is serious about their craft and I would happily defer to them on new drinks. I had the cheeseburger and, as advertised, it was as good as any I've had. The team there is kind and pays attention. I'll be back and truly enjoyed the experience! read more

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Simple menu but very good Stopped in here during midweek for breakfast and everything was great Coffee suggestion was sot on and barista pulled a perfect espresso They have a tasty in house hot sauce for your eggs or whatever you like hot sauce on Worth the try if you're in the area read more

Dram Yard was a difficult restaurant to review. Upon entering the eatery we where informed by the host that she would have to check to see if they could accommodate our party of eight, after 15 minutes she took us to two different tables splitting our group. No problem just too much confusion on their part The menu was very limited however the food was delicious. The bar was quick on drink delivery so that calmed down any doubts we had. I had the oysters (delicious) and steak( outstanding) Not sure what everyone else ordered but no plate returned to the kitchen with food remaining! Ambiance was a mix of tourist and the local young bohemian style locals. It made for a very interesting experience. Food was a tad bit pricey, but I'll pay for good eats. Definitely would return and hope I have the same server again, she was outstanding. read more

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By far one of the best restaurants I've ever been to, not just for food and drinks, but for overall vibes. The outdoor space with the firepits surrounded by beautiful trees and hedges and a bar was unreal. And then the inside is so well decorated with so much Carolina character. The wait staff was so much fun and took the time to talk with us and we're super personable. And then on top of that, the shrimp and grits were by far the best I've ever had in my life. The burger also was one of the best I've ever had. You can't come to Wilmington and not go here. read more

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This was a cool little spot with some cool decor in downtown Wilmington! We came here on a Sunday for brunch and got seated right away! The food was good and the service was great! read more

Dram Yard - New American Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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Went on the spur of the moment with 4 friends and no reservation. It was a good solid experience, and yet the food was not memorable. I honestly could not tell you anything bout what passed over my fork. The price vs memorable food experience did not really balance out for me. The cocktails were good, solid but did not really knock my socks off either. The best part was the nice bartender and the really cool outdoor seating area. I'll try again but can't say there was much memorable in the way of the meal. read more

We were staying at Arrive and had to have dinner at Dram Yard. We made reservations because it was a busy Saturday night. We were sat at a table where we could people watch all the passersby in the heart of Wilmington. Our server, Ahna,was outstanding!! She was very friendly, helpful and an all around amazing server. We ordered the smoked trout dip to start. Delicious! For our entrees we ordered the hamachi collar and a Wagyu filet. Again- delicious!!! Our dining experience was perfect! The reason for the 4 stars- We returned in the morning for coffee and breakfast. We were treated so poorly. I asked one the staff a question, and she replied with such an attitude it was shocking. We grabbed a table, and then continued to be ignored so we left. It was a very disappointing start to the day. read more

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Dram Yard is a very beautiful space with a great location in downtown Wilmington. We went for Sunday brunch and experience was mixed. We ordered some food and drinks and the drinks arrived promptly however the food took quite a bit and arrived at all different times. I got the shakshuka and they forgot to bring the side of toast and salad. The toast itself was also lackluster more like toasted white bread instead of a hearty sourdough or something that would be better with the dish. Others had the chicken and waffles - the waffles were a bit soggy, and the prosciutto toast was OK. The tuna tostada was good but the tuna was in giant chunks which made it harder to eat. I think there are many other better places in the area read more

Very laid back with good service. Just had drinks before a Greenfield Lake concert. Definitely intending to come back ... great vibe for indoor and more importantly outdoor seating. read more

Just average overall. Service was good. First round of drinks took forever, the bartender personally delivered them. She must get a bonus for small drinks, mine was tiny and wife's was basically a glass of ice. Wine pour no different. I asked to sub fries for cucumber salad, they charged an extra seven bucks for that. Only two dessert choices seems meager for an upscale restaurant. Good potential, not good execution. read more

The food was excellent! The sweet potato was a wonderful combination of flavors, and so happy to find GF options. It was nice to find a heathy seasonal choice that was also delicious during the holiday. read more

I had a fabulous Sunday brunch with my sister, and we enjoyed our meal and cocktails. The menu was limited, but our choices were delicious. Our server was extremely friendly and very attentive. It's a bright and comfortable atmosphere. I would go again the next time I visit the area. read more

A terrific culinary experience in downtown Wilmington. Dram bar is located just two blocks from the river front and offers a beautiful gazebo bar with a talented bar tender and great outdoor seating. I'd highly recommend the gazebo bar for quick eats and great drinks. Indoors, you're welcomed by a fun nautical theme, and a short listed menu perfect for share plates. My family and I enjoyed the brussels sprouts, arugula salad (my #1 pick), smash burger, tuna tartare, fish of the day (wahoo), and rice pudding. The food was plated beautifully, portioned nicely, and tasted even better. Servers were prompt and professional. We were impressed by the "team" dynamic displayed by the wait staff. Special shout out to a wonderful Chef Chavez and the Gazebo Bar bar tender! read more

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Have to try the place again before I give my opinion. There was live music and it was so loud, couldn't enjoy it

Got a cocktail and oysters here-beautiful restaurant but service was a bit iffy. Cocktails were unique but tasty read more

Dram Yard - New American Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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We had a fantastic dinner last night at Dram Yard! I started with the Little Gem salad--green goddess, benne seed, and country ham crumb. It was delicious: cold, crisp, beautifully dressed, and generously sized. For my entrée, I had the spaghetti carbonara with crispy guanciale. Honestly, I could have danced on the table I loved it so much! My husband and friends thoroughly enjoyed their tuna tartare, cheeseburger, and curried sweet potatoes--every dish was a hit. Our server, Emily, was outstanding--adorable, professional, knowledgeable about the menu, and with a great sense of humor. The kitchen sends dishes out as they're ready, which we appreciated. The ambiance is quaint and intimate, with a smallish dining room and a bar front made from old metal mailboxes--such a cool touch. I've also been for brunch recently and loved it just as much. Dram Yard offers a smaller, thoughtfully curated menu, and everything we've tried has been beautifully prepared and absolutely delicious. read more

Everything was outstanding. Food, service, atmosphere. Definitely a strong recommendation if you want a lovely evening out

Dram Yard absolutely exceeded our expectations! The cocktails were incredible (my husband had the seasonal margarita and I had the Venus Flytrap) - both perfectly balanced and beautifully crafted. Every dish was inventive, well-executed, and delicious. We have high standards for dining after living in Charleston, and this meal easily measured up to some of our favorite spots there. Executive Chef Nick Chavez is so talented, and the whole experience felt relaxed yet elevated, the perfect cozy date night spot. For anyone who's mentioned service issues, I highly recommend going on a weeknight. We went on a Tuesday, and everything was perfect. Our server was attentive, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic about the menu. We finished the evening with a nightcap at the gazebo bar and enjoyed our drinks by one of the fire pits, and it was such a lovely way to end the night. Dram Yard has instantly become one of my favorite restaurants in Wilmington and truly feels like a hidden gem. Can't wait to go back! read more

I was drawn to the Duck Fat Donuts...which were really good. Eggs benedict- the homemade biscuit was amazing as was the bacon. The biscuits and gravy was a huge dish! Good, too! And so was the omelette. Great flavors. We had outdoor seating...wonderful ambience. Wonderful place for brunch! read more

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Excellent dinner. Attentive service. Lovely setting for a quiet dinner for two. She crab soup was great!

John on outside bar is amazing 10/10 he made his own perfectly crafted cocktails that appealed to each of us on our own flavor profile and taste. 10/10 on service and ambience. Great place to hang around and enjoy a great drink. read more

Dram Yard - New American Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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Great atmosphere, drinks, burgers and apps! Everyone from the hosts to the managers have always been so great, even when something is wrong they are quick to correct it. Will be back! read more

Went in for brunch. Great service, excellent food. Sat at the bar and I don't recommend the bar stools if you're wanting to linger a bit. They can get uncomfortable. But had the prosciutto toast with poached egg...Amazing! The duck fat fried doughnuts....you get 5, they were sooooo good. Definitely recommend for brunch. read more

Different, and good enough to go back again. There were four of us, and we ordered two appetizers and four entrees. The plates are meant to be shared, we were told, and we did so, though the servings were adequate but not large. There was enough on each plate for us to share a few fork-fulls each. The trout dip was tasty, not smoked and very mildly seasoned. The wagu tartare was, as the one person at the table who does not care for raw fish or meat noted, not actually tartare but more like ceviche. No real beef flavor, but not bad. Both appetizers were served with botched house-made chips, which were flabby and greasy. The best dish of the night was the spicy noodles, with a bit of heat and a beautifully poached egg to mix in. The duck breast flesh was delicious and the sauce was excellent, but there was no sear on the skin. The carbonara was, unfortunately, over-cooked and under-seasoned, but the body of the sauce was ok, and the bits of pork were tasty. We enjoyed the swordfish, which fortunately was not cooked into a hard medium-well steak-like consistency. Very good, except my first bite had a bit of bloodline that was unpleasant. The "front-of-house" service was very good; the "back-of-house" service and execution was a bit more spotty with timing and execution. The restaurant is small and nicely decorated, just what you would expect in the historic district. The Gazebo part of the business has an attractive patio area where we enjoyed an after-dinner drink. So, while this was not a perfect performance we agreed we would like to try again, perhaps in the off season. read more

DON'T DO IT! Slowest service ever (with only 2 tables & 4 people at the bar top). My friend's food was delivered a solid 5 minutes before mine. They messed up our order and we overheard that they messed up on two other orders for the other diners. Left us waiting to pay. No apologies. Just terrible. Go to The Toastery, Amanecer, or anywhere else. read more