Looking for the next must-visit dining spot in Wilmington, NC? It’s easy to get overwhelmed with choices, but sometimes the best recommendations come from word-of-mouth. When a coworker raved about their recent experience at Castle Street Kitchen, my interest was immediately piqued. Like many, I hadn’t heard much about it yet, and that’s part of its charm. This relative newcomer, Castle Street Kitchen, or CSK as locals are already calling it, has quickly become a gem in the vibrant and evolving Castle Street District.
What immediately grabs your attention even before you step inside is the striking mural that adorns the exterior. Coupled with inviting street-side tables, it paints a perfect picture for a leisurely brunch or a relaxing sunset meal. Stepping into Castle Street Kitchen, you’re greeted by a clean, welcoming interior space, thoughtfully decorated with greenery. The retro bar top, a piece of the building’s history, adds a unique touch of character.
However, while the mid-century modern décor creates a pleasant ambiance, the real draw of Castle Street Kitchen is undoubtedly the food. And it was during a recent lunch that I discovered just how special this place is. CSK boasts an eclectic menu that draws inspiration from international flavors. From innovative appetizers like Ahi Nachos to their signature Loaded Fries – imagine crispy fries topped with melted goat cheese, toasted pistachios, and a drizzle of chile-spiced honey – the menu is designed to excite your palate. Even their meatball selection changes, promising something new to try on each visit. On this occasion, I opted for the Street Corn Dip, and it was an instant hit. This bowl of creamy, melted cheese, blended with roasted corn and peppers, delivered the authentic taste of Mexican street corn in every scoop. It’s the ideal appetizer to kick off your meal.
Beyond appetizers, Castle Street Kitchen offers a selection of lighter options, including a variety of unique salads and soups. But if you’re seeking something more substantial, the sandwich and burger section of the menu is where CSK truly shines. From the savory Heirloom Tomato Pie sandwich to the adventurous Chile Crunch Burger, each item is crafted with care and creativity. The Chile Crunch Burger, in particular, is a standout, featuring an ancho chile glaze, refreshing corn relish, creamy avocado, and crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
Usually, when browsing a menu, I can quickly pinpoint one item and disregard the rest. But at Castle Street Kitchen, the choices were all so tempting. Ultimately, a coin flip led me to the “Havana, Ooh Na-Na,” their inspired take on the classic Cuban sandwich, accompanied by a side of their acclaimed mac & cheese. The sandwich itself was a masterclass in flavor and texture. A perfectly grilled French baguette served as the foundation for a delicious combination of ham, tender pork carnitas, zesty spicy pickle chips, melted pepper jack cheese, and a flavorful house mustard. It was Cuban sandwich perfection.
However, as incredible as the Cuban sandwich was, the mac & cheese almost stole the show. Departing from the traditional cheddar-based mac, Castle Street Kitchen presents a more refined Alfredo and Parmesan style mac. The result is incredibly rich and decadent, with long, luscious strings of melted cheese that are undeniably Instagram-worthy. One look at the cheese pull, and you know you’re in for a treat! Had it not been lunchtime during the workday, I’m certain I could have devoured the entire generous portion in one sitting. It’s that good.
On a subsequent visit (because one visit is simply not enough to explore this menu!), I had to try the “South in Your Mouth” burger with tater tots. This isn’t just your average bacon cheeseburger. The addition of their house-made spicy tomato jam is a game-changer. The jam’s tangy sweetness elevates the burger to a whole new level, acting as the perfect sauce and making it worth ordering on its own. And let’s talk about the tater tots – perfectly cooked to a golden crisp. They achieved that ideal balance of a satisfying crunch without being dry or undercooked and soggy, a rare feat in the world of tater tots.
Beyond lunch and dinner, Castle Street Kitchen caters to the brunch crowd with nearly ten diverse menu items. They also thoughtfully offer vegan and vegetarian menus, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Adding to the appeal, CSK boasts some of the most affordable craft cocktails in Wilmington, with most priced under $8. A selection of wine and local craft beers is also available. And despite the high quality and generous portions, the entire menu remains incredibly reasonably priced, with only a few items exceeding $15.
With its charming location in the increasingly trendy Castle Street District, a delicious and diverse menu that spans a range of international influences, and a wallet-friendly drink program, Castle Street Kitchen is poised to become a favorite dining destination in Wilmington for years to come. My first experiences have certainly made me a believer, and I know I’ll be returning to Castle Street Kitchen very soon to explore more of their exciting menu.
Visit Castle Street Kitchen at:
509 Castle St, Wilmington, NC 28401
