What makes for a great brunch? For a recent readers’ poll for the StarNews, we managed to wrangle a list of potential “best brunch” restaurants to a list of 25. Of those, Fizzy Jane’s in Southport was the top vote-getter. But other readers wrote in to suggest that their favorite wasn’t among the contenders.
Because we love reader recommendations, we thought we’d share those that fit our brunch guidelines of having a relaxed atmosphere, with a menu of sweet and savory options and a well-rounded beverage program. So here are a few more brunch ideas for restaurants in New Hanover, Pender and Brunswick counties.
Blueberry’s Grill
Our original list focused on independent restaurants and chains based in Southeastern North Carolina. Technically, this restaurant with a location at 1900 Eastwood Road in Lumina Station shopping center falls a little outside of those parameters. But it’s still close by. There are also two locations in the Myrtle Beach area.
Buen Dia Mexican Breakfast & Lunch
This restaurant, which has locations at 5512 Castle Hayne Road and 4719 New Centre Drive, is a favorite of Joel Lamb, of the Brown Dirt Cowboys. They serve some classic American brunch dishes like waffles, but their focus in on specialties like the breakfast torta, chilaquiles, cafe de olla and rompolote for dessert.
Henry’s
This restaurant at 2508 Independence Blvd. in Wilmington has been a favorite for local diners since 1999. And brunch has long been a cornerstone of their service. Look for his and hers breakfast plates, a couple of Bennys and omelet options, as well as quiche, burger and fish and chips with a classic brunch cocktail for Sunday brunch.
Jester’s Cafe
James Gregory wrote in to say that this cute restaurant in a renovated cottage at 607 Castle St. in downtown Wilmington is his favorite when it comes to brunch. The menu includes New American breakfast and lunch dishes, like French Toast Casserole, an egg Strata, Benedicts, a black bean burger, and salads.
Patty’s Place
Restaurateur Khristen Hunter opened at 106 W. Courthouse Ave. in December in Burgaw’s historic downtown as a part of the Burgaw Now effort. There’s a dining area, and bar service near the kitchen. The Chicken & Waffles are a signature dish, as is the Fried Green Tomato BLT and the selection of coffee drinks.
Pine Valley Market Wrightsville Beach
This popular cafe and market expanded to a second location at 1611 Pavillion Place in late 2025. This new space has indoor seating, a patio and full bar. Randolph Moultrie wrote that it’s already developed a huge following in his community. They serve breakfast and lunch menus, and there’s a combo brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays. Favorites include the Make ‘Em Bacon Pancakes and the Walk the Loop breakfast plate.
The Sawmill Café
There are three Sawmill locations in the Wilmington area, each with a different twist. A fan wrote in to suggest this spot at 2528 Castle Hayne Road. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, so there is definitely an option for a brunchy meal. Favorite dishes include the breakfast burrito, with eggs, sausage, peppers, onions, cheese, and salsa, as well as the classic Eastern-style barbecue and pancakes that can be customized with additions like fruit, chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, and nuts…