In recent weeks, the Wilmington area has seen more changes in the booming hospitality and restaurant scene. It’s been a busy time for Brunswick County in particular, with more coffee, a riverside tavern, and big brands opening their doors there. In New Hanover County, we’re seeing more ramen and a buzzed-about sandwich spot.
The area has also seen some high-profile restaurants close recently, including two of the area’s most unique restaurants — one serving vegan fare and another focusing on exotic meats. Here’s a look at some of those openings and closings. Let us know if there’s something we should add to the list by emailing [email protected].
Restaurant openings
Salty Cow
A new riverside tavern concept has opened in the former Smoke’d location in Shallotte, which closed in January. Look for a menu of shareables, wraps, bowls, and sandwiches, as well as full selection of sushi served at 4812 Main St.
Southport Coffee Co. Boliva
This Brunswick County coffee brand has recently expanded to include a location in Bolivia. It’s now open at 4309 E. U.S. 17 for drive-thru and walk-up service.
Palouse
A new coffee shop started soft-opening hours in February in Leland. In addition to specialty beverages, you can also buy books and gardening supplies at 497 Olde Waterford Way.
Biscuitville
Brunswick County also welcomed its first location of this North Carolina biscuit brand. The grand opening was held on Feb. 23 at 4425 Main St. in Shallotte. Another location is in the works for Southport.
The Half Wrightsville Beach
The popular sandwich shop in downtown Wilmington has added a second location in a former Subway location at 7110 Wrightsville Ave. Look for the same selection of sandwiches — warm, cold and vegan — as the original as of Feb. 24.
Monaco Market
There are a few parts to this business. It has a self-serve ramen counter, offers a selection of drinks and boba teas, and stocks unique snacks, sweet and savory, from around the world. It’s at 419 College Road.
Umami Ramen & Sushi House
The Monkey Junction Fun Bowl location at 5226 College Road has reopened as this new Asian concept. The restaurant specializes Japanese sushi and ramen and is open for lunch and dinner.
Tropical Smoothie Myrtle Grove
The owners of four locations of this smoothie-and-bowl brand have added a fifth location in Wilmington. They held a ribbon-cutting on Feb. 16 at 5621 Carolina Beach Road with specials and giveaways.
Van Gogh Gurt
This artisan frozen yogurt shop has a new location at Azalea Antiques at 1502 23rd St. in Wilmington in a mobile unit known as Annette the Van.
Ben & Jerry’s
This famous ice cream brand is now open at 951 International Drive in Wilmington’s Mayfaire shopping center. Look for a grand opening event in April.
Restaurant closings
Platypus & Gnome
The owner of this restaurant announced it would close after 10 years, with Feb. 28 being the last day of business. The restaurant’s moved from downtown Wilmington to a space at 7205 Wrightsville Ave. and served burgers, pizzas and more.
The Green House Restaurant
The only fine-dining restaurant with a vegan menu in the Wilmington area closed at 1427 Military Cutoff Road near Wrightsville Beach on Feb. 21. Owner Anastasia Worrell said she was heartbroken, but also proud of what she and her staff accomplished during their five years in business. Next, she plans to offer online cooking classes and is working on a vegan cookbook.
Edward Teach Brewing
A downtown Wilmington brewery that had a troubled history closed in mid February at 604 N. Fourth St. in the Brooklyn Arts District.
The Cove Restaurant
This Holden Beach eatery announced it was closing on Feb. 13 at 2633 Holden Beach Road. However, new signs are already up at the former farm-to-table eatery. The new Co•No•Mo is described as a coastal café and lounge with a shared‑use commissary kitchen…