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    Hidden Ships Distillery

    4.7 (44 reviews)
    Open 12:00 pm - 11:00 PM
    Updated 3 months ago

    Hidden Ships Distillery Photos

    HIDDEN SHIPS DISTILLERY ATMOSPHERE

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    Chocolate martini
    Jose B.

    What an amazing experience! We had the espresso martini, chocolate martinis, and the strawberry-basil vodka drink -- all of them were incredible. Our bartender, Taylor, was so friendly and really made the evening even better. The drinks exceeded our expectations, the service was excellent, and the ambience was spot on. They even shared doughnuts with us. Definitely a 10/10 experience! Ps: It was the best espresso martini I've ever had. Thanks Taylor!

    Tammy W.

    This place is truly a hidden gem. The decor has a cool, old-school vibe and just makes it feel fun the minute you walk in. We had the smoked old fashioned (smoked in the box - which was fun to watch) and a chocolate martini, and both were sooo good. It's really neat that you can see the distillery right there in the next room, it adds to the whole experience. The staff were super friendly, and we loved browsing the little shop with shirts, glasses, and other cute finds. Just a really fun spot we're glad we found and will definitely be back.

    Menu
    Julie B.

    Everything here is fantastic. The only negative review I've saw was about spilling out of a martini glass which is actually a great thing cause it means your drink is full, so what are you complaining about? Excellent place, excellent service, and I'm so glad they're here to enjoy.

    View from the fireplace area
    Suzanne W.

    The place so nice, we went there twice! And we probably would have gone more but our week came to an end. My husband and I visited Hidden Ships because he loves a smoked old-fashioned. Theirs was delicious and also beautiful to watch being made. There's definitely an art and skill to making good cocktails and this staff has it down! The intimate seating made it easy to get comfortable and just enjoy the feeling of a place made for adults that also happens to be a little family friendly, though there's really nothing here for kids. We chatted with some other groups nearby and also felt comfortable just having our own conversation without interruptions. It was helpful to know you could order food from nearby restaurants and they would deliver. We tried several cocktails the first night including Irish Maid, Strawberry Lemon Spritz, Aviation and The Last Word. All unique, well blended and delicious in their own way. The second trip we booked the distillery tour with Michael. Michael was very knowledgeable, entertaining, and willing to answer a million questions. We really enjoyed the experience and are amazed at the rapid success of this tiny distillery tucked away behind Topsail Island. Bourbon, whiskey, gin, rum or vodka, whatever mood you find yourself in, come discover Hidden Ships!

    If you're interested, they do different tours and tastings! Check their website!
    Jaclyn D.

    One of my favorite places to be because of the drinks AND the people that work here. Genuinely want to provide an amazing product and service to everyone who walks through their doors. The vibes are amazing and drinks are amazing. You can also get some of the restaurants in the plaza to bring you food! 10/10

    I found a ship!
    Nancy B.

    Thank you Hidden Ships Distillery! Exactly what we needed in Surf City! The locals have breweries or bars or restaurants, but NOW we have a DISTILLERY!!! Everyone I know has been anxiously waiting for this place to come to fruition! And now it's here, perfectly timed for our coastal fall weather! I did not stay today for a cocktail or spirits, however, I did have a taste of their bourbon that was extremely smooth and mild. If you're looking for bargain bourbon, head to the ABC. This was the best I've had in a very long time. I also did a taste of their vodka, as the gin won't be ready until later in the month. The vodka was also excellent and smooth. I did buy a bottle of each to take home and I couldn't be happier to share them with my company this weekend! Enough about the booze, this venue reminds me of a cross between a speakeasy and ship! Super cozy seating and a huge bar are. Not to mention a great patio area where you can enjoy the weather here in southeast NC! Bring your pet, bring the kids, come for a tour or a tasting, they will accommodate your needs! They are open Wednesday through Sunday!

    Bar area
    Jennifer D.

    Such a cute little speakeasy! It was much busier than I expected but they have a decent amount of seating and also a large bar. Downfall was only one bartender but he did great! No food, just chips and snacks but a bunch of local options nearby to have food delivered! The drinks were outstanding! I tried the Irish Maid- delish and the Sazurac, wow these drinks were next level! They have some seating outside as well...

    Hidden Ships.
    Anna Maria S.

    Elegant yet approachable, this distillery is a fantastic place to spend an hour or two enjoying high quality craft cocktails. The Strawberry Basil Smash and Blue Hawaiian are excellent. The bartenders are always friendly and willing to make recommendations. For an intimate experience, aim to visit on a weekday early to late afternoon. For a more lively experience, evenings and weekends are best. Well behaved canine family members on leash can visit too.

    Menu
    AJ S.

    Hidden Ships Distillery hello! Walking in I was taken back into what seemed like The Great Gatsby just amazing feeling and ambiance! The service was top notch and sitting at the bar was like watching a show! The mixologist (bartenders) were really putting out some gorgeous cocktails! If you want food there are places around that you can order and pick up or they'll deliver. We ordered a pizza from a spot in next. It's a great date night spot to dress up or down. I can't wait to visit again!

    Espresso martini
    Andrea R.

    Great atmosphere & cocktails. Wait staff was friendly. Loved the music selection. Good place to meet up with friends for cocktails or a cozy date night.

    Courtney G.

    What a great addition to the area!! And cool location because there's lots to do.. close to ice cream place a pizza place and salty turtle brewery. They make their own vodka gin rum and bourbon. All very good I might add. The staff was very friendly and inviting. We also took tour with owner for $5 after tour you taste everything they make in house. Then get a shot glass too! The drinks I had were very good. All syrups and stuff for drink are made made in house. Very pretty decor and comfortable. They also have seating outside and nice night would be great! I will definitely be back!

    Taylor B.

    This place is so elegant and feels so gatsby-era. I love the window behind the bar to show where all the spirits are made. Their menu is very diverse, with non-alcoholic options, wine, beer, and cocktails categorized by spirit. Their drinks are well made and the staff are friendly.

    a wooden barrel on a shelf
    Claire H.

    Buckle up everyone, Hidden Ships is going to be your new favorite place in Surf City. Walked by last Saturday with my boyfriend and stopped by for a drink. That one drink turned into four, a tour of the distillery, and samplings of all their amazing vodka, rum, gin, and bourbon. Needless to say, we had a blast and will be returning...today and tomorrow! I wish it were a joke; it's not.

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    2 years ago

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    6 months ago

    The cocktails were so very tasty and the ambiance was delightful. The game was on in the background. Great visiting atmosphere.

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    3 years ago

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    1 year ago

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Great alcohol awesome service and the patrons really know there business would highly recommend it

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    A distillery and so much more. Tons of cocktails, beer and wines. Great service and selection. Will definitely be going back soon.

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    2 years ago

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    1 year ago

    Love this place! Drinks are amazing, bartenders do a great job! Have a smoked old fashioned, it's awesome!!

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    2 years ago

    Great drinks! Ambiance was fantastic! Would have loved a weekday tour option as we were there for a short period of time. Will be back!

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    3 years ago

    Fantastic tasting room. One can buy bottles as well till near closing all weekend. How bout those apples, Baptist Commies in NC!?

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    3 years ago

    Awesome drinks, service and atmosphere. Would highly recommend this place We have been several times and always a nice experience

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    2 years ago

    Drinks are great. Was a little annoyed I was charged more for paying cash. But overall a great place, next time I will pay by card

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Hidden Ships Distillery

    The Cove At Salty Turtle Beer

    The Cove At Salty Turtle Beer

    5.0
    (3 reviews)
    0.1 mi

    If you love Salty Turtle, you'll love The Cove even more!…read more The Cove is a cocktail bar/event space that is owned by Salty Turtle. They carry a few of their beers to serve as well as wine and liquor. Ever wish you were having a cocktail at Salty Turtle while your partner was enjoying a beer? Well now you can! Hit up the cove and you can have the best of both worlds with no one compromising. The Cove is a "club" so you'll need to sign up for a membership at the bar before you can enjoy some drinks, but don't worry it's free to join! We enjoy coming here on Wednesday nights to play trivia with friends that is hosted by Meeser Eddie. My favorite drink to sip on when coming here is probably the spicy margarita. It's not on the printed menu, but you ask and your wish shall be granted!On Wednesdays they also offer $15 bottles of Prosecco. Yes you read that right $15 for a BOTTLE of Prosecco. Nothing beats coming to play trivia with friends and sharing a great bottle together. The staff here is always so friendly, it's clean, the service is fast & the cove itself provides excellent vibes. We love the cove & salty turtle so the hardest decision is usually choosing which one to go to... and sometimes we just hit up both!!

    My friend and I went in here on a whim when we had a ladies night at Salty Turtle. Prior to this,…read moreI thought this was only an event space. Which it is but it is also open a few days a week, one of which being on Wednesday nights at 6:00pm for trivia. The place is smaller but very cozy. The decor inside is super cute and the drinks are great. We got a tequila drink that looked beautiful and tasted very good. They also have beer and wine. Super cool place to check out and really excited for an upcoming event I am going to at their location too!

    Photos
    The Cove At Salty Turtle Beer
    The Cove At Salty Turtle Beer
    The Cove At Salty Turtle Beer

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    Sears Landing Grill & Boat Docks

    Sears Landing Grill & Boat Docks

    3.8
    (600 reviews)
    0.9 mi
    $$

    The service was very friendly and honest! we were seated outside with a view of the marsh. We had a…read morecrab fritters which were very flavorful. I had the 3 way fried plate of crab, scallops and oysters. The fried crab was very juicy and good! The scallops and oysters were also very good. My wife had the fried shrimp po boy, before putting in our order I asked the waitress if the po boy was larger or smaller and if it got loaded up. She was honest about the size which was nice to not be surprised. We will be coming back again

    Try this gem. The food is exceptional, the setting is picturesque, and the service is friendly and…read moreefficient. We ordered crab fritters as an appetizer, and I have never had better. These had large chunks of back fin crab meat, and full of flavor. I had their soft shell crab, and it was done perfectly - lightly coated and fried. The crabs were tender and juicy, full of flavor. My dish came with fried green tomatoes that were crispy and tasty, and a healthy cut of cornbread. The cornbread was the best I've had - yeah, I said that twice, and I've been around. It was just the right touch of moist sweetness and full flavor. Delicious! We sat overlooking an inlet with several boat docks, including one for Sears Landing if you happen to come by boat. It was a beautiful afternoon, and as we ate we could watch boaters come and go. Nice setting. We'll be back.

    Photos
    Outdoor screened in patio with bar (overlooks play area)
    Outdoor screened in patio with bar (overlooks play area)
    Key lime pie with icecream
    Key lime pie with icecream
    Water view outside

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    Water view outside
    Driftwood

    Driftwood

    3.9
    (18 reviews)
    0.5 mi

    Driftwood Craft Kitchen was one of the highlights of our visit to Hampstead. The atmosphere strikes…read morea great balance between upscale and coastal, with warm wood tones, modern finishes, and subtle nautical touches that feel inviting without being overdone. We started with The Amelia cocktail, which was refreshing and well-balanced. For appetizers, the Sesame Ahi Tuna was incredibly fresh and perfectly prepared. The C.A.B. Ribeye was the standout of the meal--tender, flavorful, and cooked exactly as ordered. We also shared the chocolate mousse, which was smooth, decadent, and the perfect finish. What stood out most was the attention to detail in both the food and the overall experience. With excellent ingredients, skilled preparationu, and a beautiful atmosphere, Driftwood Craft Kitchen is absolutely worth a visit. We'll definitely be back.

    Where do I begin... We ordered martinis,…read moreThe glasses were no where near "full" Wife ordered the chef special, Chilean Seabass. I think it was the special because it was almost ready for the dumpster, She said she thought the sauce tasted odd. But later her stomach wasn't feeling well I ordered the steak sandwich, And specifically asked if the steak was chopped up, As I do not like fat or gristle in the bites of my steak sub. It was large chunks of steak that the fat had not been trimmed off of there were a lot of bites that I had to simply expel onto my plate. When Kimmy our server, asked, how was the meal? I told her and she could clearly see that I did not eat most of my steak sandwich and I had spit out a lot of it. When the overpriced Bill reached our table, A tall man with a big beard came to the table and asked how was the meal? I told you him about the steak sandwich. And he asked, If we were locals I said yes we were. And he said this, Well, maybe we can take care of it the next time you're in... HE SHOULD'VE TAKEN CARE OF IT THERE AND THEN Not sure what that's really means, Since now I will never be going back. And neither should you As you read the other reviews, it is CLEARLY an overpriced menu. With overpriced drinks Just like the Owner's other "bar and grill" in Sneads Ferry Spaggia (sp)? We went there a while back and found the same thing to be true. I think they're a "couple" from New York and wanna come down here to SouthEastern, North Carolina and charge New York prices Now, I reached out to the owner the next day and never received a call back. My advice. Don't waste your time OR your money

    Photos
    Chocolate Coconut Tart
    Chocolate Coconut Tart
    The bar area.
    The bar area.
    Chicken pesto crepe

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    Chicken pesto crepe
    Gretchen’s Bistro

    Gretchen’s Bistro

    4.3
    (30 reviews)
    63.9 mi

    Every time we're in Oriental visiting family, we make a point to come to Gretchen's Bistro. It's…read moreone of the few places that feels just as easy with kids as it does for a great meal out. The atmosphere is relaxed but still really well done, and the food has been consistently excellent. Service has always been welcoming and accommodating, which makes a big difference when dining with little ones. It's become part of our routine when we're in town, and somewhere we always look forward to coming back to.

    We (14 of us!) dined at Gretchen's Bistro in Oriental last night. The trip out to Oriental was well…read moreworth it! We were seated at a large table in an enclosed patio of the restaurant. The seating and lighting were great. Our server, Kayla was very professional and efficient. As one might imagine, a seating of 14 can be difficult. She handled us with aplomb! Many different items were ordered. I started with the wedge salad where the iceberg lettuce, blue cheese crumbles and bacon were the stars of the show. I ordered the duck breast for my entree. The fat was perfectly rendered and the puréed carrots pair extremely well with the richness of the deck. A must have with the duck is their in-house made pear martini which blended perfectly with the fig sauce served over the duck. My husband ordered the Shrimp Cocktail as my appetizer. The shrimp were plump and perfectly steamed! The cocktail sauce was fresh made and delicious! His entree was Pistachio Butter Scallops. They were served on a bed of polenta with a side of haricot verts! The scallops were sautéed to a point where the edges were just ever so crispy while the interior of the scallop was tender and sweet! He said this was one of the best meals he'd have ever had and we've dined at many 4 & 5 star restaurants! I almost forgot to mention the bread service! We were offered either a Baguette or Focaccia bread. The focaccia was so outstanding, we bought an extra half loaf to bring home!!! Even though we were both happily satiated, we shared their pan fried pound cake with salted caramel gelato and chantilly cream for dessert! It was simply amazing! The management staff and chef came to our table to check on our service and meals. They were very appreciative of our glowing feedback! We'll definitely be coming back! I highly recommend going to Gretchen's Bistro in Oriental! You won't be disappointed! Sorry...only the one pic, because we were a large group enjoying a multitude of conversations.

    Photos
    Gretchen’s Bistro
    Gretchen’s Bistro
    Gretchen’s Bistro

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    Hidden Ships Distillery - distilleries - Updated July 2026

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