Two of downtown Wilmington’s oldest restaurants get a fresh rebrand
After being open on the waterfront in downtown Wilmington for more than 40 years, the owners of two restaurants have announced some updates and rebranding.
The Pilot House first opened in Chandler’s Wharf at 2 Ann St. in 1978 and Elijah’s restaurant followed in 1984. They’ve been favorites for both tourists and locals ever since.
The eateries recently underwent a refurbishment with new paint, light fixtures, and decor to offer a more modern atmosphere that still retains its historic charm, according to a press release.
The Pilot House now has the Crow’s Nest Bar next to the main dining room. It’s a space for small bites and drinks that overlooks the restaurant patio and the Cape Fear River. Its neighbor on Ann Street is now called Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp.
The new look and marketing were created with the help of Charlotte-based firm The Plaid Penguin. The updated branding can be seen on the menus and apparel.
Many of the menu changes appear to be tweaks streamlining the options. The Elijah's menu has some new items, as well as favorites like the Hot Crab Dip. Another popular item is now known as Frank’s Fish and Chips. You can also find Oysters Rockefeller, Crab Cake Sandwich, Shrimp Scampi, and the local fresh catch. The burger is still on the menu, but not the Blackened Prime Rib sandwich.
At Pilot House, popular entrees like the Shrimp & Scallop Scampi (over linguine) and the Sweet Potato Grouper are still there. The Crow’s Nest Bar menu includes seasonal cocktails and small plates like Baked Burrata, Crispy Oysters, the black-eyed pea Carolina Caviar dish, and Coastal Nachos with chilled shrimp, avocado, vegetables and crema over tortilla chips.
Timeless classics: Your guide to the oldest restaurants in the Wilmington area
The owners say they are excited to unveil the changes that “pair with the best food, drinks, and views on the river,” but they also want to keep the elements that have made the restaurants popular.
“Our historic restaurants have had the privilege of helping our guests celebrate special occasions and create lifelong memories for decades,” said Taylor Stanfield, co-owner, in the release. “We look forward to continuing those traditions for many decades to come.”
The websites for both restaurants have also been redesigned. The onsite private dining space for larger groups, which includes a detached cottage, has also been rebranded. The Little Drum Landing space has capacity for up to 200 guests, indoor and outdoor.
STAY CONNECTED: Keep up with the area’s latest food news by signing up for the Port City Foodies newsletter and following us on Facebook and Instagram.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews. You can reach her at[email protected].
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Elijah's and The Pilot House restaurants in Wilmington, NC, get a rebrand