Top 5 Gluten-Free Dining Spots to Enjoy in Wrightsville Beach

J Garrett

I’ve been visiting Tower 7 since my college days—basically since right after it opened. I bought my first surfboard, a beautiful WRV from Sweet Water surf shop in 01. Over the years, I’ve watched this little spot grow and change. Every summer, without fail, I visit the beach—and I always come to Tower 7. It’s become an icon of my summers; a tradition. I've introduced it to my children who now know what Tower 7 is and ask for it. I’m 42 now, so we’re talking about 20 years of memories. If I weren't 2 hours away, I'd come to eat more often! Tower 7 has always felt like my special little hole-in-the-wall. The chips and salsa? My favorite. And the margaritas? Also my favorite! Over the last few years, I’ll admit, I noticed a slight decline—nothing major, but enough to dim the magic a little. I chalked it up to the pandemic. Outdated. The bathrooms and hallway needed renovating, the ventilation wasn’t great, the front felt cramped with all the extra seating crammed in, and the menus were outdated. Presentation of food was different. Even the vibe from the staff seemed off. But I kept coming back—because this place means something to me. I never felt it was worth not visiting, though. Yesterday was my first visit of the summer, and I was so happy to see changes. The hostess stand has been updated and is way more functional and welcoming, pushed back and kind of separates the kitchen hustle & bustle from the seating area. That crowded seating area to the right when you walk in? Gone. The hallway and bathrooms have been completely renovated, now featuring beautiful tiling and a much fresher atmosphere. I don't feel like I'm going to collide with staff going in or out of the kitchen (lol). Best of all—the energy is back. A quick tip: aim to visit around 5 p.m.—it gets packed after that, and parking along Breeza and the surrounding strip can be tough. And a word to the wise: if you’re expecting authentic, traditional Mexican food—don’t. This is Tex-Mex, and it’s good. If you’re from California, remember—you’re on the East Coast. That authentic Cali flavor you’re used to just isn’t going to be here. So please don’t come with that expectation. What you will find is good food in a surfy beach spot, with the spirit of beach life infused throughout. Surf videos play on the TVs, surfboards and logos line the walls—Tower 7 lives and breathes its location. I also have Celiac Disease, and I’ve always felt safe here. Their corn tortillas are handmade, and I’ve never had an issue/gotten sick. The staff are knowledgeable and never make me feel like a burden when I have questions or want to try something new. That matters. A lot! Just ask - there's a few sauces that aren't safe. I cherish this place. I’m genuinely glad it’s still here, still evolving, and still delivering those summer memories for me and my kids.

Mackenzie Spencer

Great spot for quick, healthy breakfast. The avocado toast was excellent! I got it on gluten free bread which was some of the best I have had. The Japanese iced coffee was great and the perfect strength.

A.j.m

Came here for dinner with 3 others. I got the gluten-free cosmic q, and it was delicious. The crust was good- thin and crispy. A friend got the meat calzone and said it was great. Others got the thin crust pizza, and both enjoyed it. Service was good.

Cana McKenna

My husband and I visited The Shark Bar 3x during our week in Wilmington we enjoyed it so much! The service was great, very knowledgeable about seafood freshness and allergen info. I am celiac, and they were able to accommodate with a gooood GF bun. They are very dog friendly; on our last trip to Shark Bar we sat outside with our two dogs! We will definitely be back.

Katherine Hamilton

If you have insatiable hunger after hitting the waves, do yourself a solid and stop here. Staff are kind + quick! Many Gluten-Free and Vegan options. Everything on the menu is delicious and filling!