Wedding Receptions and Caterers | Insiders' Guide To NC'S Southern Coast & Wilmington


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		Reception Facilities and Caterers
		The reception facilities in the Wilmington area offer as many choices as the mind can imagine. You can choose a location such as a hotel or restaurant that will provide the food and beverages, or engage a caterer for another setting. Our Restaurants chapter lists a number of excellent establishments that host wedding celebrations — everything from the bachelor's party and bride's luncheon to a rehearsal dinner or a full-blown reception. If you'd prefer to host the reception in Wilmington's Historic District or in a romantic oceanfront house facing one of the many beaches, a caterer can provide all of the services while you enjoy the company of your guests. For a catered function, expect to spend $25 to $50 or more per guest, depending upon your choice of menu and type of bar service.
		Wilmington
		Beau Rivage Resort & Golf Club 649 Rivage Promenade, Wilmington (910) 392-9021, (800) 628-7080 An elegant, colonial-style clubhouse offers gracious, formal banquet and corporate meeting facilities accommodating up to 250 guests, making this a perfect venue for meetings, special events, wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners. Simply put, Beau Rivage provides comfort, convenience, privacy and accessibility. The friendly, professional staff invite you and your guests to have a joyous, fun-filled, relaxed event, with large and varied menu selections provided by their in-house caterer, Thyme Savor. For overnight guests, there are 26 comfortable golf villas that can accommodate up to four people, plus there are an outdoor swimming pool and tiki bar, tennis courts, free high-speed wireless Internet and, of course, an 18-hole championship golf course. They offer a variety of packages and extended-stay discount rates. Whether your group is large or small, Beau Rivage is prepared to meet all your needs.
		Caffe Phoenix 9 S. Front St, Wilmington 343-1395 Conveniently located in the heart of Historic Downtown Wilmington, Caffe Phoenix is only a short stroll from any number of local wedding venues. Their second-floor space is reserved exclusively for private, catered events and can accommodate up to 85 guests. The third-floor, two-bedroom apartment can also be utilized for pre-wedding rehearsal activities for local or out-of-town guests. Menus are made to order and showcase the skills of the restaurant’s talented kitchen staff, while a full beverage menu can be made available as well. The 150-year-old building’s fully renovated space features beautiful heart-pine floors, a fantastic view and parking just across the street. Enjoy your special day in a comfortable and warm environment just steps from the Cape Fear River.
		Elijah's Chandler's Wharf, 2 Ann St., Wilmington (910) 343-1448 www.elijahs.com
		Enjoy your special day at Elijah's restaurant, one of Wilmington's finest riverfront dining destinations. The lounge area comfortably seats 50, and the main dining room approximately 120. Also, in conjunction with the Cape Fear River Deck, (910) 763-1703, Elijah's can provide an outdoor event for up to 100 people. Visit their website for pictures of the dining areas and to look at their menus.
		Jerry Rouse Catering 7220 Wrightsville Ave., Wilmington (910) 256-8847 Jerry Rouse Catering will coordinate your catering needs for any number of guests. Their knowledgeable staff offers nearly 40 years of professional experience and will happily assist you in selecting the most appropriate menu. Taking any dietary, religious or occasional need into consideration, Jerry's puts together an event for every desire, with nothing left to chance. For your convenience, a complete list of wedding services is offered, such as tent set-up, shrimparoos, videography and music, to assure that your special day is memorable in every way.
		Lily's Banquet Room 5027 Market St., Wilmington (910) 799-7617
		Lily's is a 5,000-square-foot banquet hall located behind the Old Chicago Restaurant. A great place for all of your bridal events, Lily's can accommodate up to 300 guests with a dance-floor area, a built-in stage and a DJ booth. They also offer a private parlor and a most comfortable lounge with sofas and chairs.
		Louise Wells Cameron Art Museum 3201 S. 17th St., Wilmington (910) 395-5999, ext. 1000 The Forks, Cameron Art Museum’s exclusive restaurant/caterer, has an expert staff who provide exceptional service for wedding events. Rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, engagement parties and fabulous receptions are all part of their repertoire. The Forks Restaurant is known for its creative approach to Southern dining. Add to that the luxury of eating in a unique setting, and your guests will have a most memorable event.
		Lovey's Natural Foods and Cafe, Inc. 1319 Military Cutoff Rd., Ste. H, Landfall Shopping Center, Wilmington (910) 509-0331 www.loveysmarket.com
		If you've enjoyed the fresh, healthy, natural foods of Lovey's for lunch, you can bring that experience to your wedding menus. Lovey's offers the same delicious fresh fruits, vegetables, salads, soups and beverages in their catering department. They can serve organic, or not! Lovey's professional catering staff can create the perfect rehearsal dinner, bridal luncheon or wedding reception. They will help you select just the right menu to complete your perfect day. Need flowers, a photographer or rental items? Lovey's can handle it all. For catering that's delicious and healthy too, call the catering professionals at Lovey's Natural Foods and Cafe.
		Nicola's ~ Italian with a Twist 5704 Oleander Dr., Wilmington (910) 798-2205 http://www.nicolasitalianrestaurant.com
		Treat your wedding guests to an authentic Italian feast. Nicola’s owner Nick Pittari makes only authentic recipes with fresh-made ingredients, including pasta, fish, shellfish and vegetables. Nicola’s caters events on site in its chic restaurant or at the location of your choice. The Main Restaurant will hold 80 people seated and 100 people for a cocktail-style party. The Banquet Room will hold 40 people seated. The catering menu includes appetizers, salads, risottos, fresh pastas, Italian entrees, sides and fabulous Italian desserts. Packages are available or the staff will help you customize your menu. Italian doesn't get any more authentic than the masterpieces coming out of Pittari's kitchen. Join him for a slice of the Cape Fear region's la dolce vita.
		The Pilot House Chandler's Wharf, 2 Ann St., Wilmington (910) 343-0200 www.pilothouserest.com
		Enjoy your wedding day, rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception at one of the most popular Cape Fear riverfront restaurants, located in the historic Craig House in Chandler's Wharf. Serving the finest in both traditional and innovative Southern cuisine for more than 26 years, The Pilot House will serve approximately 150 guests in the casual elegance of the sunny dining room or outdoors on the covered patio, which offers a great view of the river.
		*Pine Valley Market* 3520 S. College Rd., Wilmington (910) 350-FOOD (3663)
		Truly a one-stop shop for off-premise catering, Pine Valley Market will provide everything you need from setting up to cleaning up. From a romantic dinner for two to a full-scale party for 300 people, wine expert Kathy Webb and personal chef Christi Ferretti can handle it. Their specialty is intimate settings with a true gourmet flair. Whether you choose a brunch, dinner or cocktail reception, call this creative team to assist you with an event to remember. You'll love their party platters, accompaniments and entrees. Want vegetarian or low-carb selections? No problem. What they don't do themselves, they can order for you, including specialty items such as wedding cakes and ice sculptures. You can also visit them at their second location in downtown Wilmington at 114 Dock Street.
		Historic Poplar Grove Plantation 10200 U.S. Hwy. 17, Wilmington (910) 686-9518 If you're looking for someplace truly different to hold your service, reception and even your rehearsal dinner, Historic Poplar Grove Plantation has a number of amenities suited to your needs. Couples may rent the Manor House, once the center of this lovely old Southern plantation or the courtyard, gazebo, cultural arts center and even the entire grounds with its big old shade trees. Conveniently located and an extremely popular destination, Historic Poplar Grove Plantation has a cozy feel for celebrating one's nuptials.
		Ramada Inn 5001 Market St., Wilmington (910) 799-1730 www.ramada.com/Ramada/control/Booking/pr
		The Ramada Inn's spacious banquet room can accommodate a wedding reception for up to 300 people.
		The Union Cafe 2 Market St., Wilmington (910) 763-7227 Many marriage proposals have taken place on the nine two-seater balconies of this picturesque restaurant that overlooks the Cape Fear River. Owner Steve Kohlstedt says multiple weddings have resulted from the restaurant's consistently high quality in both food and service. One couple who enjoyed a romantic balcony dinner came back to renew their vows on their 20th wedding anniversary. The next year, they had a reception for one of their daughters and the following year, a rehearsal dinner was held for another family member. In more than 20 years of business, The Union (formerly Riverboat Landing Restaurant) has hosted more than 1,000 wedding rehearsal dinners and an equal number of wedding receptions. The restaurant offers in-house catering for up to 110 people in its private banquet room and off-site catering for a maximum of 500. Catering services are fully customized with offerings of the finest seafood and steaks, hors d'oeuvre and buffets. *Wilsons Catering* 4925 New Center Dr., Wilmington (910) 793-0999 ext. 20 For creative cuisine, exquisite presentation and exceptional service, call Wilson's Catering. Their on-site event planner will help you chose your menu, either from their current selection of items or from your imagination. From rehearsal dinners to lavish receptions, Wilson's can accommodate your guests in their banquet rooms or at your chosen location, and they will work with you to make sure every detail is perfect. Seahorses look on as a reception begins at the North Carolina Aquarium. *Photo:* N.C. Aquarium
		Carolina Beach and Vicinity
		Courtyard by Marriott $$-$$$$ 100 Charlotte St., Carolina Beach (910) 458-2030 (800) 458-3606 The Courtyard by Marriott at Carolina Beach, with 144 oceanfront balcony rooms, offers a full range of facilities and services for weddings of any size. Banquet facilities offer seating for up to 200 guests. With the Atlantic Ocean as a dramatic backdrop, the Courtyard by Marriott is an ideal setting for the perfect wedding and reception. Why not get married right on the beach?
		North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher 900 Loggerhead Rd., Kure Beach (910) 458-8257, ext. 218 www.ncaquariums.com
		For your wedding reception, consider the beautiful North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, situated on the Atlantic Ocean's picturesque shores. Greet your guests in the Cape Fear Conservatory atrium. Dine and dance in this romantic environment where seahorses gently sway and colorful fishes accent the underwater scenery. The Aquarium can accommodate up to 1,000 people, and up to 500 for a seated dinner. Contact the Special Events Coordinator, who will work with you to ensure a truly memorable occasion. The North Carolina Aquarium provides a unique setting for a wedding reception. photo: N.C. Aquarium
		Wrightsville Beach
		*The Bridge Tender Restaurant* 1414 Airlie Rd., Wilmington (910) 256-4519 www.thebridgetender.com
		If you’ve enjoyed the exceptional dining at The Bridge Tender Restaurant, why not book Bridge Tender Caterers for your wedding reception, rehearsal dinner or other special event? Located at the foot of the Wrightsville Beach drawbridge on Airlie Road, The Bridge Tender Restaurant hosts private wedding receptions on Saturdays and Sundays between the hours of 9 AM and 3:30 PM. With few places in the area available on the waterfront, The Bridge Tender Restaurant is a great place to have an affordable and elegant waterfront reception with panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating for up to 200 guests. If historic downtown Wilmington is more your style, Bridge Tender Caterers can accommodate you there in their recently opened catering facility located above the popular Front Street Brewery. You’ll find the same fine food and attention to detail in a beautiful 3,000-square-foot room that accommodates up to 120 people for a cocktail-style party or up to 80 people seated. Round tables with linens, china, flatware and glassware are included with the room and there is no room charge if the per-person food minimums are met. The Bridge Tender Catering staff will also cater events, big or small, at a location of your choice anywhere in Wilmington and surrounding areas. With a full range of culinary specialties offered, there is a menu for every occasion and budget.
		*King Neptune Restaurant* 11 N. Lumina Ave., Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-2525 King Neptune offers fabulous Caribbean seafood in a unique island atmosphere just steps away from the ocean dunes of Wrightsville Beach. Private banquet rooms for up to 35 guests are great for rehearsal dinners and small receptions. If you want to reserve the whole restaurant, the staff can accommodate up to 125 people.
		*Savannah's Restaurant* 530 Causeway Dr., Wrightsville Beach (910) 256-6464 www.savannahswb.com
		Offering a dining experience that they refer to as "low-country casual," Savannah’s features perhaps the most tantalizing menu on the island of Wrightsville. Their signature seafood dishes, such as the crab-stuffed salmon and grouper pecan, are sure to delight any fan of fish. With light pastas and savory pork and beef dishes available as well, there’s no shortage of choices for discriminating diners. In addition, the atmosphere of their cozy Oak Room (complete with magnificent bar) complements the more spacious decor of their Charleston Room, a perfect spot for large gatherings or corporate functions. Their monthly wine dinners create an ideal learning space for the burgeoning wine aficionado as the chef expertly pairs culinary delights with the finest in international and domestic wines. You’ll want to make your reservations for these tastings well in advance.
		Bald Head Island
		Marsh Harbour Inn 21 Keelsen Row, Harbour Village (910) 457-1702, (800) 680-8322
		If you are planning an intimate indoor reception (up to 30 people), Marsh Harbour Inn is an excellent choice. A view of Bald Head Creek and the wide expanse of lovely natural marshland will provide a beautiful backdrop for your special occasion. Comfortable rooms can be reserved at the inn for you, your wedding party and guests, or, if you prefer, there are 55 rental homes available on the island as well.
		Southport Taylor Cuisine Cafe & Catering, Inc. 731 N. Howe St., Southport (910) 454-0088 Taylor Cuisine is ready to cater your wedding reception and/or rehearsal dinner at the site of your choice or at their own restaurant. Their catering menu includes a variety of items, including breakfast. Some of their specialties include bruschetta, fried-green tomatoes with goat cheese and roasted red pepper sauce, gourmet pizzas, and shrimp and chicken jambalaya with linguine, but there is so much more. Oak Island *Turtle Island Restaurant and Catering* 6220 E. Oak Island Dr., Oak Island (910) 278-4944 The folks at Turtle Island are happy to work with you in planning the menu and in presenting their luscious food in a way that makes it a feast for the eyes. They will cater your wedding reception or rehearsal dinner on-site or off-site to meet your highest expectations. Turtle Island has all ABC catering permits.
		Ocean Isle The Isles Restaurant 417 W. Second St., Ocean Isle (910) 575-5988 An oceanfront banquet facility with glorious views of the Atlantic Ocean is available for your wedding reception at The Isles Restaurant. Food is prepared by the excellent restaurant chefs and served by your very own staff. The private dining area seats more than 100 guests. Drinks, including beer, wine, champagne and liquor, are available as well. *Silver Coast Winery* 6680 Barbeque Rd., Ocean Isle (910) 287-2800 Your reception can have an old world feel in a true vineyard and winery in the heart of Brunswick County. Silver Coast Winery is nestled on 40 acres, surrounded by lush woods and just 15 minutes from the beach. Your guests can enjoy the spacious outdoor setting while sipping award-winning wines. For indoor accommodations, the barrel room with its indoor waterfalls, or the art gallery exhibiting works by local artists will suit your nuptial needs. For intimate affairs or larger groups, Silver Coast Winery is a unique setting for your special day. (For more information, see our Attractions chapter).
		Shallotte ART Catering 111 Cheers St., Shallotte (910) 755-6642 Billed as "The Sophisticated Side of the Purple Onion Cafe," ART Catering is located just around the corner from the cafe. As full-service caterers they will take care of set-up, serving, the carving table, monitoring and clean-up. From intimate groups of 20 to 400 or more guests, from informal to elaborate, from sandwiches to Beef Wellington, the folks at ART Catering will make your event personal and special and a time to remember.
		Topsail Island and Vicinity The Atlantis Restaurant & Lounge 2000 New River Inlet Rd., North Topsail Beach (910) 328-2002 The Atlantis has a fabulous view of the ocean and can handle up to 200 guests. They offer a variety of pasta, steaks and seafood in a buffet or banquet setting. The extensive wine list coupled with specialty cocktails and tasty appetizers will keep wedding guests smiling. A separate smoking lounge and bar provides an eye-in-the-sky view of the sand and surf. Inside, on the dance floor, the lucky couple will undoubtedly remember their first dance as moonlight filters through floor-to-ceiling windows. *JC's Catering* 212 N.C. Hwy. 210, Holly Ridge (910) 347-7566 At JC's you can choose seafood, steak or their famous barbecue along with salads, vegetables and/or heavy hors d' oeuvres. A minimum of 50 meals is required for JC's to travel to the location of your choice with everything needed to feed your wedding reception guests.
		Mainsail Restaurant 404 Roland Ave., Surf City (910) 328-0010
		The Mainsail Restaurant has two private reception rooms, the Commodore Room and the Sunset Room, and offers off-site catering at the location of your choice. The largest room, the Commodore Room, has a gorgeous cherry wood bar and a dance floor and can easily accommodate wedding receptions, anniversary parties and holiday celebrations. The Sunset Room is ideal for rehearsal dinners and intimate dinner receptions. The Mainsail offers a nice selection of appetizers, entrees and desserts and has a full bar with all ABC permits.
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