The story
Beach Shop and Grill brings a casual fine-dining experience to Topsail Beach, North Carolina, focusing on Southern coastal bistro cuisine that celebrates seasonality and place. The restaurant emphasizes locally and regionally sourced organic ingredients, working with exceptional small farmers and trusted purveyors from across the region. The menu evolves regularly, reflecting what’s available from partners like Ghost Fleet Oyster Company, Swing Bridge Micro Farm, and Anson Mills.
The dining room offers a cozy atmosphere where guests can enjoy the full menu alongside selections from a well-curated wine collection. That wine program has earned the restaurant a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, recognizing the thoughtful pairings that complement the range of flavors in each dish. For those who prefer fresh air, The Patio serves the same menu and cocktail list on a first-come, first-served basis, and dogs are always welcome.
The kitchen, led by Executive Chef Jim Foss, turns out dishes rooted in coastal tradition with refined technique. Starters like Fried Green Tomatoes with pimento cheese and bacon jam, or Ghost Fleet Topsail Jewels Oysters on the half shell, set the tone. For mains, the Eastern Shore Crab Cakes come with Carolina gold crab rice and jardinière vegetables, while the Steak Au Poivre features filet mignon with truffled pomme pureé and a cognac pan sauce. Other standouts include the Shrimp & Grits with house-made tasso and Anson Mill's grits, and the Gnocchi Alla Bava with fontina and summer truffle.
The cocktail program is equally considered, with options like the Velvet Smoke (mezcal, pomegranate, hibiscus) and the Locked & Loaded (bourbon, lavender, earl grey). Spirit-free options are also available.
Beach Shop and Grill’s dedication to American cuisine is evident in its sourcing. The restaurant lists its local farmers and regional purveyors proudly, from Surf City Crab & Seafood Market to Lady Edison Farms and Spice Walla. This network of suppliers ensures that the menu stays tethered to the seasons and the coast. Whether stopping in for lunch, dinner, or Sunday brunch, guests can expect a meal that feels both grounded and thoughtfully crafted.
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