14 Top North Carolina Spots For The Best Shrimp And Grits
North Carolina offers a culinary journey where shrimp and grits hold a special place. From mountains to coastlines, these 14 spots deliver memorable plates full of Southern flavor. Each destination provides a unique take on this classic dish, blending creativity with tradition.
1. Sunny Point Café — Asheville, NC
Sunny Point Café is more than a brunch stop; it’s an experience that embodies Asheville’s vibrant culture. Their shrimp and grits dish captures the essence of Southern comfort with a touch of gourmet flair. The shrimp, perfectly cooked, nestles into creamy, robustly flavored grits.
Known for its warm atmosphere, Sunny Point is a local favorite, offering a menu that feels like a weekend escape. The café’s charm lies in its ability to blend traditional and contemporary flavors seamlessly.
The shrimp and grits here are a testament to the café’s dedication to quality and creativity.
2. Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar — Asheville, NC
At Tupelo Honey, shrimp and grits are both a crowd-pleaser and a culinary delight. This dish is seasoned boldly, reflecting the confidence of chefs who know their craft. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
The restaurant’s ambiance is as inviting as its menu, drawing first-timers and regulars alike. With its comfortable, homely vibe, Tupelo Honey promises a satisfying dining experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a curious newcomer, the shrimp and grits here are a delicious testament to Southern culinary traditions.
3. Corner Kitchen — Asheville, NC
Corner Kitchen offers a polished yet welcoming atmosphere, where shrimp and grits take center stage. This dish is not an afterthought but a signature offering, crafted with precision and care. The shrimp is succulent, and the grits are rich and creamy.
Nestled in Asheville’s historic Biltmore Village, Corner Kitchen combines elegance with a sense of intimacy. It’s a place where Southern hospitality shines, and every meal is a special occasion.
Here, shrimp and grits are elevated to an art form, reflecting the restaurant’s commitment to excellence.
4. Mert’s Heart and Soul — Charlotte, NC
Mert’s Heart and Soul is the beating heart of Charlotte’s soul-food scene, offering shrimp and grits that feel like a warm embrace. The dish is bold, full of flavor, and embodies the essence of home cooking with flair.
The restaurant’s lively atmosphere complements its robust menu, where every dish is a celebration of soul-food traditions. Mert’s charms diners with its authenticity and passion.
With each bite, shrimp and grits at Mert’s deliver a taste of Charlotte’s vibrant culinary soul, leaving a lasting impression.
5. 5Church — Charlotte, NC
5Church offers a more elevated dining experience, where shrimp and grits are crafted with sophistication. This dish invites diners into a world of rich flavors and exquisite presentation, redefining a Southern classic.
Known for its contemporary vibe, 5Church blends modernity with tradition, resulting in a unique culinary journey. The restaurant’s chic décor and innovative menu are a draw for food enthusiasts.
Shrimp and grits at 5Church exemplify the restaurant’s creative approach, satisfying both the eye and the palate.
6. The Flying Biscuit Café — Charlotte, NC
The Flying Biscuit Café is a beloved brunch destination in Charlotte, where shrimp and grits provide the perfect comfort food fix. The dish is hearty, filling, and imbued with cozy Southern charm.
Renowned for its welcoming environment, the café offers a menu that invites diners to relax and enjoy. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike gather for delicious, home-style meals.
Shrimp and grits here are a classic choice, embodying the café’s dedication to satisfying, flavorful dining.
7. Poole’s Diner — Raleigh, NC
Poole’s Diner is a Raleigh institution, where Southern comfort meets culinary finesse. The shrimp and grits here are a testament to the diner’s commitment to quality and flavor.
The dish is crafted with chef-level skill, transforming a beloved classic into something extraordinary. Known for its creative yet approachable menu, Poole’s delivers memorable dining every time.
In a setting that feels both nostalgic and innovative, shrimp and grits at Poole’s offer a perfect blend of tradition and creativity.
8. Beasley’s Chicken + Honey — Raleigh, NC
At Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, shrimp and grits are the epitome of comfort food, offering a satisfying plate that pairs perfectly with a hungry mood. The dish is prepared with love and attention to detail.
The restaurant is a favorite for those seeking hearty meals and a welcoming atmosphere. Beasley’s captures the essence of Raleigh’s culinary culture, blending warmth with flavor.
Each bite of shrimp and grits here reflects the passion for authentic Southern cooking, creating a delightful dining experience.
9. Whiskey Kitchen — Raleigh, NC
Whiskey Kitchen offers a modern twist on Southern cuisine, where shrimp and grits stand out as a flavorful, comforting choice. The dish is a balance of tradition and innovation, satisfying the palate with each bite.
Known for its lively vibe and creative menu, Whiskey Kitchen attracts diners seeking a fresh take on Southern classics. The restaurant’s ambiance is both inviting and dynamic.
Shrimp and grits here are a true reflection of the restaurant’s commitment to quality and creativity, making it a must-try spot in Raleigh.
10. The Basics — Wilmington, NC
The Basics is renowned for its straightforward, delicious Southern cooking, where shrimp and grits are a staple. This dish is prepared with skill and tradition, offering a taste of true Southern hospitality.
Located in downtown Wilmington, The Basics provides an inviting atmosphere that complements its comforting menu. It’s a place where diners can enjoy the simplicity of well-executed classics.
Shrimp and grits at The Basics are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality and tradition, delivering satisfying comfort with every bite.
11. Seabird — Wilmington, NC
Seabird is a seafood lover’s paradise, where shrimp and grits are crafted with coastal inspiration. The dish is fresh, flavorful, and reflects the restaurant’s commitment to using local ingredients.
Located near the water, Seabird offers a dining experience that feels both relaxing and invigorating. The menu celebrates the bounty of the sea, promising dishes that are as delicious as they are memorable.
Shrimp and grits at Seabird capture the essence of coastal cuisine, offering a delightful taste of Wilmington’s vibrant culinary scene.
12. Blue Moon Beach Grill — Nags Head, NC
Blue Moon Beach Grill is a beloved spot in Nags Head, where shrimp and grits feel perfectly at home after a day by the sea. The dish is prepared with care, showcasing the rich flavors of the Outer Banks.
The restaurant offers a laid-back, friendly atmosphere, drawing both locals and visitors. Blue Moon captures the relaxed vibe of beach living, with a menu that offers something for everyone.
Shrimp and grits here are a nod to the coastal lifestyle, delivering delicious satisfaction with every forkful.
13. Owens’ Restaurant — Nags Head, NC
Owens’ Restaurant embodies classic Outer Banks charm, where shrimp and grits are a must-try. The dish is served with reverence to tradition, offering flavors that feel both familiar and special.
Located in Nags Head, Owens’ provides a dining experience that feels like a step back in time, with a focus on quality and hospitality. The restaurant’s history is reflected in every dish.
Shrimp and grits at Owens’ are a celebration of coastal cuisine, offering a taste of tradition that never goes out of style.
14. Print Works Bistro — Greensboro, NC
Print Works Bistro offers a refined dining experience, where shrimp and grits are presented with elegance and care. The dish is rich and satisfying, capturing the attention of all who taste it.
Known for its stylish ambiance, Print Works is a go-to spot for those seeking a memorable meal in Greensboro. The restaurant’s dedication to quality ingredients and creative preparation is evident.
Shrimp and grits at Print Works Bistro are consistently crowd-pleasing, offering a delightful culinary experience in a sophisticated setting.
