Creative spins on traditional Southern cuisine served in a homey, brick-walled bistro setting.
The Basics | Wilmington, NC 28401
This casual spot, located in the Cotton Exchange, a collection of shops and restaurants, takes staples of Southern comfort food like pimento cheese, fried okra …
In WNC
Great neighborhood spot in downtown Wilmington with consistently awesome food, warm, attentive service, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe that makes you want to linger over your meal. Every dish that hit the table was fresh, flavorful, and clearly made with care, and the staff struck the perfect balance of friendly and efficient. The cozy brick-walled space and upbeat atmosphere give it a cool, comfortable feel whether you’re there for brunch, lunch, or just a casual bite with friends.
Couldn’t ask for a better combination of great food, great service, and great energy – an easy 5 stars and a place that instantly goes on the “must visit” list in Wilmington.
… moreScott Besemann
Small dining space so people are greeted outside…sonif there is a line, know there is no lobby in restaurant.
People seemed friendly and attentive. They also seem to work as a team so cant imagine much gets dropped here. Cobb salad was good. Really enjoyed the smoked chicken and guacamole turned out to be a great touch!
Tomato soup had a great flavor but consistency was more like pizza sauce. Wouldn’t recommend. Mac and cheese was simple and delicious. Appreciated the melted cheddar on top.
… moreOwen
Walked by this place many times but never tried it. Glad I did. Great food and very reasonable prices. I had pulled pork that was excellent, but my judgement on “good bbq” is only rendered after I try their cornbread and coleslaw. Well, they passed the test with flying colors. Coleslaw was fresh and crunchy with great flavor. Cornbread was deliciously toasted and topped with a bit of honey and butter. Unusual presentation but it worked. They don’t skimp on the sides, as my friend ordered the risotto side and was a meal in itself. This place is a gem.
… moreJohn Eft
The food and services were spot on! The crab cakes and canapé plates were freshly made and delicious. Our server Lila was great and wonderful to talk to. Highly recommend for scratch made food. Two thumbs up.
… moreJohn Fowler
First time dining here was 2017, then again in 2019 and visiting Wilmington again in ‘26….consistently awesome. Gourmet southern cuisine. Craft cocktails, an intimate, cool place that’s clearly been sustainable for a long time and survived COVID. Staff is unbelievable and they’ve been there for a long time, which tells you a lot about The Basics. My go to place in Wilmington, wish we had it back home
… moreEvan J
Basics absolutely lives up to its name — simple, clean, and perfectly executed! The atmosphere is welcoming, the staff is friendly and attentive, and everything feels effortlessly put together. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite, coffee, or just hanging out, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer. Consistency, quality, and comfort — Basics nails all three. Highly recommend!
… moreJacquelyn Miley
I accidentally found my way to the Basics while here in a work trip.
From the moment I walked in I knew I made a good choice. Easy relaxed and comfortable.
From my server Kindell being so welcoming and knowledgeable about the menu to the house wine selection I was already impressed.
Then the menu was solid. I had a hard time deciding but settled on the nightly specials. It was one of the best meals I have had in a very long time.
Fresh local ingredients and thoughtful presentation and preparation. Can’t wait to return. Do yourself a favor and check it out!
… moreRob Longo
The Basics, located in the Cotton Exchange is a popular restaurant with excellent food and service. The chefs come up with many unique dishes. The wait staff are attentive. The Basics offers inside and outdoor dining. Their Sunday brunch is popular.
… moreF’burg Foodie
Came in for lunch on a weekday and they weren’t busy at all… it was right after they switched to lunchtime that I arrived, but by the time I left, they were getting busy. I sat at the bar and started with a cup of Brunswick Stew. The stew was very flavorful, but was so thick, it didn’t resemble a soup nor strew, it was more like a casserole. I then went with their chicken salad sandwich on sourdough bread.
The chicken salad was just ok. I bit into something hard, maybe a bone and the overall flavor of it was more on the bland side. The potato cake that came with it was the best thing I ate there. It was very tasty.
Overall, I wasn’t as impressed based on what I expected from all the positive reviews I read.
… moreDuke La
I lived in Wilmington back in the ’90s and recently came back for a visit from London. I was really impressed with Basics for brunch—delicious food, friendly and attentive service, and an overall warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel right at home.
Highly recommend it if you’re looking for a great brunch spot. I only wish I had more time to try their dinner menu—hopefully next time!
… more