Autumn, often celebrated as the local’s summer in the Carolinas, is the perfect season to indulge in your favorite outdoor dining spots. Bask in the golden glow of fall as you relax on Southport’s favorite patios, where the warm fall weather creates the perfect backdrop for a delightful outdoor experience. The charming patios at these three venues beckon you to savor an extra drink or two while enjoying the sunset over the Intracoastal.
Haven
@haven.southport
If you’re in search of a charming evening featuring a stone-laid patio, complete with a stage for live music, cornhole, and a bocce ball court, look no further than this hidden gem off Howe Street in Southport. This delightful wine bar and gelateria hosts live music on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday nights, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. I highly recommend bringing a friend and indulging in a double scoop of their exquisite Pistachio and Fondente Nero (Dark Chocolate) gelato. Pair this treat with a bottle from their specially curated Italian wine list for a perfect evening.
Fishy Fishy Café
@fishyfishycafe
Inspired by waterfront living, Fishy Fishy Café has been a cherished Southport icon for over a decade. The restaurant’s patio doubles as a floating dock, offering a picturesque view where you can watch the sunset over the water while starting your meal with some delectable coconut shrimp. For dinner, I highly recommend their Blackened NC Tuna, perfectly finished with a sweet chili glaze, served over rice pilaf and roasted asparagus. Not a seafood enthusiast? No problem. They also offer a hearty grilled ribeye, seasoned to perfection and served over a bed of homemade mashed potatoes.
Frying Pan
@fryingpansouthport
Nestled on Southport’s Old Yacht Basin, the Frying Pan Restaurant offers a patio with unmatched views. Sailboats glide by as you peruse the menu, relishing hot hushpuppies. Wednesdays, from four till close, indulge in all-you-can-eat crab legs, tender and succulent. I highly recommend trying the Safe Haven platter, named after Safe Haven the movie filmed here in 2013—a delightful mix of pan-seared unicorn fish, shrimp, scallops, and crab cake. For dessert, the Butter Toffee Cake is divine. End your evening next door with a stroll along the Southport waterfront, savoring memories of a delicious feast and the serene beauty of the sea.
