You’ve been to a food court — but in other cities. The Cargo District’s food court will be the Wilmington area’s first, though not the last. The Cargo District began transforming the 16th Street corridor in 2018. Since 2020, its food and bar scene has turned the “district” into a day and night destination for visitors and locals alike. Construction began on the two-story food court, known as Cargo West, with an adjoining arcade in January. This summer a few restaurants have already soft launched, with many more to come. Here are the restaurants you can expect in the lineup so far:
Shepard Barbecue
Brandon Shepard reigns as on the of the barbecue greats in Emerald Isle, and now he plans to bring some smoky flavors to The Port City. Featured on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives,” you can expect his famous smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, collards, pimento cheese macaroni and cheese, and street corn, among other sides. Check out The Boss Hawg Sandwich featured on Triple D: Pulled pork, sausage, pickled red onions, coleslaw and Carolina gold on brioche bun.
Phun Seafood Bar and Tackle Box Kitchen
James Beard Award Nominee Chef Keith Rhodes, known for his restaurant Catch, will bring two restaurant concepts to the Cargo West food court. At Phun Seafood Bar expect an Asian fusion concept that incorporates seafood and farm-fresh ingredients. At Tackle Box Kitchen you’ll find sandwiches and small plates that celebrate the fish camps of the Carolina coast with a slightly modern take.
Zeke’s Beans and Bowls
If you’ve been to Zeke’s Beans and Bowls in Wrightsville Beach, then you know all about their açaí bowls, poke bowls, smoothies and coffee. This is the perfect breakfast and lunch spot to get your day started.
Mike’s Vegan Grill
This popular regional franchise is known ins Greensboro, Charlotte and Raleigh.
Find a large menu of burgers, sandwiches, hot dogs, fries and other vegan versions of your favorite foods (even wings!)
Seoul Sushi
In addition to a menu of sushi rolls, check out the Korean-style wings and Korean barbecue bowls at Seoul Sushi.
Frontier Food To Go
This Wilmington classic is now expanding under new ownership, offering a simple menu of things like hot dogs and ice cream.
Copper Penny
Another Wilmington favorite and longtime staple — Copper Penny is famous in town for its pub vibes and hand-breaded onion rings. This restaurant also landed on “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives” back in 2018.
Sinful Cupcakes
These are not going to be typical cupcakes. Enjoy gluten-free options and even some alcohol-infused cupcakes at this new vendor.
Sunset Slush
After all these great restaurants around the food court, you’ll need to cool off and cleanse your palate with some Italian ice at Sunset Slush.
Mallowdoos
Small-batch, artisanal marshmallows? Don’t knock-em til you try em! Mallowdoos made some waves when they started turning out treats in the Cargo District’s commercial kitchen.
