As the Porters Neck area continues to grow, so does its restaurant scene. In addition to local favorites, like Pho Vanhly Noodle House, Tidewater Oyster Bar and Cast Iron Kitchen, well known local brands have been opening there, too.
It looks like more are set to join them before the end of 2024. Here’s a look at what’s happening.
MeMa’s Chick’n & Ribs
This popular Burgaw restaurant was planning an expansion in Pender County, but the pieces fell into place for them to open a permanent storefront at 8232 Market St. They officially opened Nov. 7.
Although they’ve been serving people through their food truck in recent months, owners Myra and James McDuffie said they’re excited that people can come into the restaurant for good comfort food. The former J. Michaels’ space has been renovated to look a bit like the original restaurant. There’s also a new mocktail and dessert station and player piano. The menu includes barbecue, ribs, smoked chicken, seafood plates, sides, sandwiches and salads.
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Nori Asian Fusion & Sushi Bar
Jing Chen and Yun Zhao have created a popular restaurant at The Pointe at Barclay, at the junction of 17th and Independence Boulevard. There’s a focus on chef-selection style sushi rolls, as well as a variety of Asian specialties like lo mein and Orange Chicken.
They’re now close to opening a location at 7972 Market St. in Porters Neck and may be serving customers in December. Meanwhile, the owners are planning to renovate their original location for a fresh look before the new one opens.
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Burrito Shak
This locally born chain already has more than 15 locations, many of them in franchises in North Carolina. But the original was started by the Longo family in Hampstead. Now, their second location is getting closer to opening at 188 Porters Neck Road.
The Longos hope to open in December, serving their fresh-made signature burritos, tacos and quesadillas.
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Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at aballard@gannett..
