The Best of Goldsboro NC

Introduction

Goldsboro, North Carolina, offers a compelling mix of Southern charm, rich military history, and steadily growing amenities. For visitors and residents alike, the city’s restaurant scene is an essential part of its appeal. From classic Eastern North Carolina barbecue to creative farm-to-table cuisine and international flavors, Goldsboro’s best restaurants highlight local ingredients, hospitality, and tradition. The following guide explores some of the top dining spots in Goldsboro, helping you plan where to eat whether you are exploring tourist destinations, considering neighborhoods to live in, or simply enjoying a night out on the town.

Wilber’s Barbecue

No discussion of Goldsboro’s dining scene is complete without mentioning Wilber’s Barbecue, a landmark for Eastern North Carolina–style whole hog barbecue. Located just off U.S. Highway 70, Wilber’s has long attracted travelers, locals, and food enthusiasts seeking authentic pit-cooked pork with a classic vinegar-based sauce. The menu is simple, focusing on what they do best: slow-cooked barbecue, fried chicken, hushpuppies, and traditional Southern sides. Whether you are visiting nearby tourist destinations such as Seymour Johnson Air Force Base or exploring historic downtown, Wilber’s is a must-stop for a true taste of local flavor.

Barrique

For a more upscale dining experience, Barrique in downtown Goldsboro offers modern American cuisine with a creative twist. Housed in a renovated historic building, this restaurant blends exposed brick, warm lighting, and polished décor to create a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The menu features seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, with dishes such as seared seafood, premium steaks, inventive small plates, and artisan cocktails. As you explore Goldsboro’s best neighborhoods or enjoy an evening in the revitalized downtown district, Barrique provides an excellent option for date nights, business dinners, and special occasions.

The Laughing Owl Restaurant and Pub

The Laughing Owl is one of Goldsboro’s most popular destinations for Asian fusion and American favorites. Conveniently situated downtown, this restaurant appeals to a wide audience, from families to young professionals. The menu combines dishes like Thai curries, sushi rolls, and stir-fries with burgers, wings, and salads, making it easy for groups to find something for everyone. With regular events, a lively bar scene, and proximity to cultural attractions, The Laughing Owl is well-suited for those exploring Goldsboro’s fun tourist spots or looking for a vibrant evening out near the city center.

R and R Brewing and Food Trucks

While technically a brewery, R and R Brewing in nearby Mount Olive plays an important role in the broader Goldsboro area’s food and drink landscape. Many visitors to Goldsboro make the short drive to enjoy craft beer, rotating taps, and a relaxed outdoor environment. Frequently, local food trucks set up on-site, offering gourmet tacos, barbecue, sandwiches, and desserts. This combination of local brews and mobile cuisine creates a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere that appeals to tourists, residents from surrounding neighborhoods, and students from area schools looking for a casual weekend gathering place.

Brisas Latin Cuisine

Brisas Latin Cuisine adds vibrant international flair to Goldsboro’s restaurant lineup. Known for its warm hospitality and colorful interior, Brisas offers dishes rooted in Caribbean and Latin American traditions. Guests can enjoy empanadas, mofongo, plantains, grilled meats, and fresh seafood, all seasoned with bold spices and served in generous portions. Located within easy reach of many of Goldsboro’s top tourist destinations and residential areas, Brisas is an excellent choice for diners seeking something different from standard Southern fare while still enjoying a relaxed, family-friendly environment.

Los Fogones Peruvian Restaurant

Los Fogones introduces Peruvian flavors to Goldsboro with a menu that showcases classics such as lomo saltado, ceviche, and rotisserie-style chicken. The restaurant’s cozy setting and attentive service make it ideal for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners. As Goldsboro continues to expand its cultural and educational offerings, international restaurants like Los Fogones contribute to the city’s growing appeal for newcomers considering the best neighborhoods and schools. In addition, its location makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring nearby parks, museums, and historic districts.

The Ice Storm and Downtown Treats

For dessert and casual bites, The Ice Storm and other downtown sweet shops offer ice cream, milkshakes, and pastries that appeal to families and visitors of all ages. After a meal at one of Goldsboro’s top restaurants, many people stroll through the downtown area, stopping for a scoop of ice cream or a specialty coffee. This combination of dining and dessert options contributes to a walkable, engaging downtown experience, which in turn enhances the overall quality of life for those living in central neighborhoods and visiting key tourist attractions.

Jay’s Sushi and Burger Bar

Jay’s Sushi and Burger Bar demonstrates Goldsboro’s knack for blending traditional and modern tastes. As the name suggests, the menu features both Japanese-inspired sushi rolls and classic American burgers, allowing diners to mix and match according to their preferences. This flexibility makes Jay’s especially popular with groups and families seeking a single destination that satisfies diverse tastes. Its contemporary interior, convenient location, and friendly service make it an attractive dining option for residents exploring new neighborhoods as well as tourists spending the day at local parks, historic sites, or shopping districts.

McCall’s Bar-B-Que and Seafood

McCall’s Bar-B-Que and Seafood is another cornerstone of Goldsboro’s culinary identity. Known for its expansive buffet, McCall’s serves barbecue, fried chicken, seafood, country vegetables, and homemade desserts in a casual, family-oriented setting. This restaurant is particularly popular for large gatherings, school celebrations, and church groups thanks to its spacious dining areas and catering options. For travelers, McCall’s offers a convenient way to sample a wide range of Southern dishes in a single visit, making it a frequent stop for tour buses and road-trippers exploring Eastern North Carolina.

Community-Focused Cafés and Local Eateries

Beyond the well-known establishments, Goldsboro also features a number of smaller cafés, diners, and bakeries that contribute to the city’s appeal. Local coffee shops provide quiet spaces for students from nearby schools to study, while family-run diners serve hearty breakfasts and lunches to workers and longtime residents. These neighborhood eateries, though often less publicized, play a vital role in defining the character of Goldsboro’s communities. When evaluating the best neighborhoods to live in, many residents consider the availability of these casual, welcoming food options just as important as proximity to parks, schools, and tourist destinations.

Conclusion

Goldsboro’s restaurant scene reflects the city’s broader strengths: a balance of tradition and innovation, deep community roots, and a growing sense of possibility. From iconic barbecue institutions like Wilber’s and McCall’s to modern downtown destinations such as Barrique and The Laughing Owl, diners can enjoy a wide range of flavors and experiences. International offerings at Brisas and Los Fogones, along with casual favorites and dessert spots, ensure that both visitors and locals have ample choice. As Goldsboro continues to develop its tourism, education, and residential sectors, its best restaurants will remain central to the city’s identity, welcoming newcomers and regulars to share in its evolving culinary story.

• Best Restaurants in Goldsboro NC