Michael's Seafood

Michael's Seafood: Not your average fish camp! This is seafood with an upscale twist, at ridiculously low prices! I was impressed by the details put into the presentation of the food! Again, seafood at a reasonable price, can't go wrong! They also have a great outdoor covered and uncovered seating area! They were very accommodating for our group of 27 college students! It was a great pick after a long day of lounging on the beach!

I loved my coconut shrimp - the batter had more coconut than most, but fabulous flavor!

Carrot Cake - I've never liked Carrot Cake - and this was GOOD!

Coconut Cake - Also great!

Just remember, it's a beach restaurant, so your water and fountain drinks will taste like they scooped it out of the ocean! As a local you just get used to it, add some lemon!

Also - this is random - if you're coming FROM Carolina Beach - be careful as you're turning in and also leaving the restaurant - the traffic pattern is a bit strange getting there!

Michael's Seafood Restaurant and Catering

1206 N. Lake Park Blvd.

Carolina Beach, NC

(910) 458-7761

Rucker John's

Located in the heart of Monkey Junction, Rucker John's provides a great family environment if you are looking to "sit down" eat quick. Now, it does border line a chain, as it originally sprouted from Emerald Isle, then to Wilmington, and their most recent location in Greenville, NC. The restaurant is huge inside, with rarely ever a wait. If you are looking for somewhere to take a big party (especially with kids) Rucker John's would be a great pick! The ambiance must be noted too. It's a tropical thing, but not done up wrong. A classy tropical theme that's not overdone. Very nice! Prices range from $8-$20.

Hands down, the food is great. Large menu selection to pick from. Even a "Lighter Alternatives" with $8 portions. This might sound silly, but they have a chicken tender platter that is just fab! The batter is different, not like O'Charly's (though I am a fan of), but more of a light, fluffy batter. My newest favorite here is the RJ's Pasta, which is actually NOT on the menu anymore...but you CAN ask for it:) RJ's pasta is a wine sauce with artichokes, mushrooms, red peppers, and cajun chicken...sooo good! Lots of times pasta's don't wow me, but this one earns wow factor! Another highlight is their really great salad topped with a honey brushed crescent! It's not the average side salad as it screams fresh and crispy. (Again, salads are normally just yeah...it's a salad...NOT this one!)