This little out-of-the-way place gets my vote for the best seafood in Carolina Beach! Everything we had was fresh, flavorful, and delicious--and the best part was that it wasn't fried. They do have fried options on the menu, but we chose the fresh, lighter choices and were so glad we did. The homemade soups were fantastic. He tried both the lobster bisque and the New England clam chowder, and we also had the spinach salad with poppy seed dressing--absolutely delicious! Then we tried the daily special: a blackened shrimp wrap with a side of garlic mashed potatoes. You could tell the potatoes were homemade, and everything tasted fresh and made with care. I honestly can't say enough good things about this place. I wish we had discovered it years ago! Hands down, one of the best places I've eaten in Carolina Beach in many years. We will definitely be back as soon as possible! read more

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Service was great, friendly and prompt. Food was incredible and came out fast and fresh. We had some raw oysters and lobster bisque. The catch of the day was blackened swordfish and it was fantastic. My wife had the crab cake sandwich and it was amazing. But the part that I loved the most was my son's fish sticks. I half expected Gorton's for a kid but they came out, fresh fried fish and it was delicious. I ended up eating the rest of what he couldn't finish. This wasn't my first visit but it's been years since I was here. Glad to see it's still going strong. It stays as my top recommendation for folks coming to Carolina Beach read more

- Hoping They Find Their Footing Fish Bites has been one of our favorite seafood restaurants in Wilmington for years, so we've been rooting for the new owners. Unfortunately, after another visit, I have to say the food quality and consistency have slipped enough that I'm moving my rating down to three stars. My wife originally ordered the tuna. It had a noticeably fishy taste that fresh tuna simply shouldn't have. We were told it was "fresh off the boat." That may very well be true, but something wasn't right by the time it reached our table. She then switched to the peel-and-eat shrimp. Sadly, those were disappointing as well. They were overcooked, a little mushy, and lacked the natural sweetness and texture that good shrimp should have. It seemed as though all of the character had been cooked out of them. From what we observed, the kitchen appeared to struggle once the restaurant became busy. My impression is that the new owners may need to focus on consistency and perhaps take a hard look at kitchen operations. The recipes may still be there, but the execution isn't matching what Fish Bites has traditionally been known for. The bright spots remain the staff. Abby continues to be one of the best servers in Wilmington--friendly, attentive, and professional. Claire, behind the bar, was outstanding as always. She was courteous, genuinely apologetic about the food issues, and handled the situation with the kind of professionalism that keeps customers coming back. We're not giving up on Fish Bites. We've had too many great meals there over the years. We sincerely hope the new ownership gets the kitchen back to the standard that made this restaurant one of our regular destinations. When they do, we'll be happy to update this review. read more

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Had a chance to speak with the owner which I think is she is an absolutely a sweetheart after meeting her over the phone we chatted about her mom and our migraine issues it's one of my favorite restaurants because I crave their soup they're lobster bisque when I'm sick it just seems to fix everything did kind of have a negative experience trying to call the restaurant today I guess they were extremely busy and I had patience but it just ended up taking a little bit longer than expected but the owner immediately reached out to me and comforted me and assured me and I was highly impressed by the communication between the restaurant and her and her turnaround time on calling me definitely to see that restaurants are still taking southern hospitality to the max highly recommend this restaurant read more

This place had been on my list to try and I was excited to go for a team lunch. The space is small but has a back bar area and some outdoor seating too. But not the best view with the gas station. Our waitress was nice and attentive. We started with the Oyster Bombs, which were cheesy and delicious. I also got the clam chowder which was hearty and very satisfying. For my main meal, I had the stuffed flounder. It was rich and packed with flavor. I picked the mixed veggies and garlic mashed potatoes as my sides. I ended up taking half home because I was so full! Plus, we got a few slices of cake to share at the office in the afternoon. Everyone enjoyed our meal. I'll definitely be back. read more

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Such a great place to dine! The service is great and you cannot go wrong with anything on the menu- a hidden gem!

This is a hidden gem! Food and service hometown North Carolina! I ordered the Raw Oysters and Clam Chowder, Calamari, and crab dip! The group I was with tested more of the menu all satisfied! Yum! read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - Welcome! - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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This place was amazing from start to finish! The Thai Chili sauce was the best sauce I've ever had, if it doesn't come with your food ask for it. Service was great too. read more

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The food is very good but they dont give you enough to fill you up. No hushpuppies or bread either. Expensive for what you get. Prefer other seafood nearby. read more

Best dinner we had in Wilmington! Highly recommend Seafood Mac & Cheese and Maple Glaze Salmon. Still gave amazing service even close to closing time. Will be back next time in Wilmington! read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - Seafood Mac and cheese and maple glaze salmon - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

We tried this place again 2 years later after the incident with the old scallops and this time the food was absolutely amazing everyone loved it and we will probably eat here again next year read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - Stuffed flounder - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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Rudest bartender who was also our waitress I have ever dealt with here. Her attitude was totally dismissive and short! We will never return after the treatment we received. I asked for drink refills and she said nothing just dumped drinks in cups. When asked about menu items she acted as if we had asked for her for a million dollars. Super rude and not friendly at all. I'm sorry she doesn't like her job, but when in the restaurant business you should probably have a better attitude. $72 for lunch and shit service is not worth my business. read more

A genuinely refreshing family-style seafood restaurant that serves delicious seafood and reasonably priced. We ordered the fish and chips and stuffed flounder. Really fresh tasting! They offer cake from the display case that is out of this world. read more

Food was amazing but the service was even better 5/5 I will be coming back Ambiance was also very nice read more

Located in a gas station plaza with the usual nautical-themed décor, this spot might not make a strong first impression--but don't let that fool you. The seafood is well-prepared, the service is excellent, and the drink specials are a nice bonus. A hidden gem if you're willing to look past the setting. read more

I thought about not writing this review but this was the most insane restaurant experience I've ever had. We were there the weekend of Labor Day. My friend and I ordered soups to start - the lobster bisque was great, the clam chowder was mediocre. Then we got calamari and that was pretty good. Nothing crazy special but good calamari. Then we ordered our main... we got a seafood boil and added on crab legs. They were out of corn and potatoes so we ordered a couple sides to substitute that, disappointing but no problem we were flexible. They brought out the seafood. It had been boiled in PLAIN UNSEASONED WATER. We literally had to ask them if they could bring out some old bay seasoning for us and we had to drown everything in salt to make it somewhat edible.... It was a very bizarre experience. I don't know how they thought that serving plain boiled seafood was okay??? read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - So called "seafood boil" - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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The seafood was fresh but nothing to write home about. I wish they'd given me more fried oyster than shrimp, in my combo platter. The shrimp was a-bit overcooked. Our Server however was fantastic. Very energetic and friendly. The place is smaller than i thought but is clean. I might go back when I'm in the area. read more

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I was incredibly impressed with this restaurant. Everything tasted fresh and thoughtfully prepared. I ordered the shrimp and scallop scampi, which was rich, creamy and fresh. The coconut cake was DELICIOUS! It was moist, flavorful, and I will be ordering that every time. Their lemon drop martini was the best I've ever had. It was smooth, and clearly made with fresh ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff genuinely seem happy to be there, which makes a difference. It has a welcoming, family style feel. I'll definitely be back for more seafood. read more

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Small casual kinda place with great seafood. Lobster bisque and clam chowder are both winners. I had the fried flounder for lunch, large piece of nicely fried fish. The honey maple bacon wrapped salmon is my all time favorite. Peel and eat shrimp were not the best in my opinion. Service at the bar has been great read more

Sea Food was fresh & hot Crab dip was excellent Waited about 15 mins in summer chaos, not bad Staff was friendly, beers were cold read more

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I have been going here for the two years i have lived here.. ever since i have dined in the bar the bartenders are so rude! Especially the old blonde she needs to learn how to talk to people, its so funny how everytime we have left the establishment i have said how rude the bartenders are, homophobia at is finest especially from the old blonde bartender! Never again the food isnt that great! . read more

Amazing- always good food!! The staff are also incredible. For a small place they work as a superior team for a great experience every time!

Service and food always good here. Usually stop here delivering cars. Never had anything that wasn't great

Well, first when you drive up it's beside a gas station so my first thought is my kids are taking me to the gas station sushi place. Well, that is far from the tree this place has fresh seafood prepared amazing the service was excellent and the drinks were perfect. Now that they live there, we will be making this a regular place. The Bible is cool. It's nice and clean just kinda rustic beach vibe. read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - My crew on a recent visit, did not know it would be so damn good! - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

I originally posted a review when I went there for a lunch with my little one and I had the fish and chips and he had the burger. Or maybe it was the chicken fingers lol I forget. Anyway, I just wanna update to say that I brought my older son this time along with one of his best friends, and we all had the crab legs, which were fantastic! After a dinner at the last place yesterday and a sale on crab legs, this definitely made up for it! I'm always impressed with the service and the fact that this is a local hidden gem and some of the best tasting food that I've had locally in WILMINGTON in a long time! Drinks are large size. The staffing is super nice and accommodating. There's a lot of space and a lot of room in the restaurant I don't know if it will save my old review so I'm just putting some of the stuff that may seem repetitive. Parking is plenty. It's a huge parking lot and it's literally behind a gas station. It's so interesting Because There's an outdoor eating area and it also accommodates a large number of people to sit outside too on a nice day. The owner is super friendly coming around to the tables to talk to people and welcome them and ask them if they're enjoying themselves. They have a large dessert selection of cakes in a bakery display case and there's also a bar toward the back and over to the right behind the wall that can't be seen when you come in the door, but it gives Four good privacy if you just wanna have a drink with a friend. Definitely recommend this place if you're from here or even if you're not from here or new, this is a place to grab anything from burger to chicken to fish and fresh catch great specials and really great pricing. read more

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The food was so fresh excellent portions and family friendly. We will be back on future visits to Wilmington area

The food here is excellent. I was surprised how good it was considering it is small looking in a strip mall. Service is always top notch. The only thing I don't like is they rush over and clean your table off before you leave. Other than that, it's a great place!!! read more

Wanted to get some good food while departing the area. Saw some reviews about this place and decided to pull over. I didn't have any expectations going in, but I have to say this food was great! I had steamed oysters shrimp and grit cake. The oysters were good with plenty of sauce and horseradish for your liking. The shrimp and grit cakes were delicious. Each component was well seasoned and flavorful on its own which combined made for a great dish. And I eat A LOT of shrimp and grits. Def worth a return or a visit if one is wondering. Oh, and the old fashioned will make you sit up in your seat lol. read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - Steamed oysters and shrimp and grit cakes - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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Amazing customer service ! They have my 5 stars. Food was outstanding as well. I ordered the fish bites which were grouper that day and they were phenomenal! My server Brian made me feel absolutely special . read more

The food was very good and was hot when we got it. The service was prompt and friendly. The restaurant has a nautical theme. I had the salmon with applewood bacon and a maple honey sauce. Very tasty and well prepared. read more

Service was excellent and considering how busy they were the food came out in a reasonable amount of time. It's really a small place. Insofar as the seafood, it was just okay. I had fried fish and shrimp with deep fried zucchini, which was nice. My spouse had scallops. I was surprised how small her portion was, but she was satisfied. The cakes that we got to go were very good, but super sweet. We're on the fence about returning. read more

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Two friends and their kiddo were in town visiting, so we met for lunch at Fish Bites. We were able to be immediately seated, with room for the kiddo to hang out and enjoy the meal too. I ordered the fresh catch meal which was swordfish with a side of zucchini fries. Everything was super fresh and delicious! My friends' meals were also delicious. Everyone left happy and fully satisfied. read more

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Hey you....PSSST yes, YOU!!! If you want consistently amazing seafood and you're in the area - this is the place that you want to go. I'll say this, there's a reason why the locals frequent this restaurant - because it's the best food you're going to find. Great food, great prices, great staff. What else do you want? It is not a swanky overpriced restaurant. It's a laid back dining experience, and worth every dime! read more

I've been here with my wife maybe 5 times, the food is normally fantastic and was one of our favorite spots to go to when we were in the area. However this last time we went my wife and I ordered the shrimp platter and it made us insanely sick. I was yaking my brains out all morning at work and I currently have a temp of 101.4. Needless to say we were shocked this was one of our favorite places but I don't see us coming back. read more

My local friend called ahead on a Saturday night and our party of four was seated immediately when we arrived. The place is fairly small so was glad we got a table. Waitress was attentive and quickly brought us waters and corn muffins. We ordered the crab dip as an appetizer which was flavorful and packed with seafood. For my meal I ordered the ponzu tuna with mixed vegetables and wild rice. Tuna was a good portion size and seemed fresh. Was advertised as medium rare but seemed a little more like medium. Mixed vegetables were very oily. Wild rice was good. Husband enjoyed his stuffed flounder, fries and vegetables but also thought the vegetables were oily and felt like his dish in general had a lot of sodium. Prices were reasonable and service was good. read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - Ponzu Tuna, wild rice and mixed vegetables - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

The fresh catch Tuna was delicious! I also had the zucchini fries & the spinach salad. All was very fresh. The service was very good also. read more

My fiancée got a severe case of food poisoning after eating from here. She was fighting for her life later that night after we ate here. I got Woken up out my sleep all I hear is her throwing up in the bathroom at like 1:00am. Had to help her clean up because it was a MESS!!! Not the best start for our time here in Wilmington. Such a shame I really enjoyed my meal but seeing her that down bad was unacceptable. read more

Great food. Service was excellent, sat outside and weather was nice. Maybe add some plants, etc. to make dining experience outside nicer. party of 6 we didn't have much of a choice but to sit outside. read more

Service was great. Young lady was very nice and attentive. Food was awesome. Seasoned to perfection. We will be back next time we are in town. Very clean restaurant. read more

Fish Bites Seafood Restaurant - Seafood Pasta - Seafood Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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We took a day trip to Wilmington on a Monday. Our favorite local seafood restaurant was closed so we searched for another nearby and up came Fish Bites with good reviews. The venue was small and cozy. We were greeted as we walked in and immediately seated. Nice decor and nice friendly staff. I don't recall our waitress's name but she was great! Knowledgeable of the menu and how items are cooked and had great suggestions. My hubby is picky and had fried fish and fries. He was very pleased with how the fish was cooked as he requested salt and pepper. He said the fish was deliciously fresh and flavorful. Also the portions were large for the price. I had the shrimp and grits. I'm used to creamy grits but this was a grit cake baked in panko bread crumbs with a creamy sauce and large shrimp. Remarkable flavor, hot, fresh shrimp. Will definitely eat there again. Just a sweet experience with a pleasant vibe. read more

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