Island Burgers & Bites

Island Burgers & Bites is one of Carolina Beach’s favorite success stories. It began as a small burger counter inside a convenience store and, thanks mostly to word of mouth, became one of the coast’s most popular burger spots. After years of long lines—sometimes up to an hour during busy summer days—the brothers who run the place turned a former Hardee’s behind the original store into a new standalone restaurant.

The new 3,500-square-foot space keeps the same casual, beachy feel that made the original so popular. There’s counter service and seating for about 120 people, both inside and on a covered patio. The menu is still simple, which is exactly what they want. Single and double burgers are made to order from certified Angus beef, hand-pattied and cooked on the grill when you order. They’re served on potato buns made just for them by a local bakery and delivered fresh three times a week.

Part of the fun is building your own burger. You can stack it with plenty of free toppings like chili, slaw, and grilled onions, or add extras such as candied bacon, pimento cheese, fried eggs, and grilled jalapeños. The rest of the menu is simple too: steak and chicken cheesesteaks (often with Cheez Whiz), all-beef hot dogs, grilled cheese, chicken tenders and sandwiches, and hot, fresh crinkle-cut fries. They also serve beer and wine, plus milkshakes and seasonal items like wings throughout the year.

Whether you stop in for a quick lunch between beach trips or relax on the deck for a longer meal, Island Burgers & Bites gives you exactly what it promises: high-quality, made-to-order food in a simple, friendly setting. It’s the kind of place that shows you don’t need a fancy idea to win people over. All it takes is great ingredients, careful cooking, and plenty of heart.