14This month, in honor of Women’s History Month, we are spotlighting women-owned restaurants in the area. 
 
Vibe Gastropub
131 Hay St. #101
Mon.-Sat. Noon-8 p.m.
910-491-8259
https://www.instagram.com/vibe.gastropub/
Savor hearty plant-based comfort dishes including flavorful lentil tacos, satisfying breakfast burritos, and delicious veggie burgers served in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
 
Vagabond Cafe
108 Hay St., Suite 1B
Mon.-Fri. 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
910-500-3009
https://www.vagabondcafe910.com/
A welcoming cafe offering freshly brewed coffee, specialty teas, delectable baked goods, and a warm, inviting environment.
 
Antonella's Italian Ristorante
300 Hay St.
Wed.-Sat. 4 p.m.-10 p.m.
Sun. 4 p.m.-9 p.m.
910-486-0046
https://www.antonellasitalianristorante.com/
Elegant dining establishment offering classic Italian cuisine, featuring fresh seafood specialties, thoughtful vegan options, and expertly crafted signature cocktails.
 
Circa 1800
108 Person St.
Wed. & Thurs. 11 a.m.–2 p.m., 5 p.m.–9 p.m.
Fri. 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 5 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Sun. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
910-568-4725
https://www.thecirca1800.com/
A welcoming restaurant offering juicy steaks, classic American dishes, and an extensive drink selection in a casual atmosphere.
 
Gaston Brewing Restaurant
124 Hay St.
Tues. & Wed. 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Thurs.-Sat. 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m.
Sun. 11:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
910-748-0580
https://gastonbrewing.com/
A welcoming establishment serving hearty comfort dishes alongside house-brewed beers and mixed drinks, perfect for families and groups.
 
Rude Awakening Coffee House
227 Hay St.
Mon.-Thurs. 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 7:30 a.m.-Midnight
Sun. 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
910-223-7833
https://www.rudeawakening.net/
This charming historic cafe offers artisanal coffee beverages, freshly baked pastries, and diverse menu items, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
 
Taste Of West Africa
116 Person St.
910-779-2375
Wed.-Sat. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
https://www.tasteofwestafrica.net/
A cozy African restaurant serving authentic cuisine in a bright, welcoming space featuring comfortable booth seating and a stylish bar area.
 
The Sip Room
106 Hay St.
Wed. & Thurs. 5 p.m.-9 p.m.
Fri. & Sat. 1 p.m.-11 p.m.
Sun. Noon-6 p.m.
910-920-3442
https://www.thesiproomnc.com/
Upscale wine and champagne lounge featuring gourmet charcuterie boards, exotic hookah flavors, and nightly live music performances.
 
Henley's Vintage Kitchen
1911-A Murchison Rd.
910-745-9816
https://henleysvintagekitchen.com
Welcoming family restaurant specializing in authentic Southern comfort food, featuring perfectly seasoned fried catfish, creamy mac 'n' cheese, sweet candied yams, and other homestyle favorites in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
 
Bees & Boards Restaurant + Provision Company
225 Green St.
Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
910-263-8754
https://beesandboardsrestaurant.com/
A modern, laid-back restaurant serving traditional Southern comfort dishes in a welcoming atmosphere with contemporary design elements.
 
Melvin's At Riverside
1130 Person St.
Tues.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Fri. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
Sat .11 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sun. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
910-339-3059
https://melvins-atriverside.com/
In a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere, diners can savor traditional Southern comfort dishes including crispy fried chicken, slow-cooked collard greens, and homemade golden cornbread.
 
Anchor Allie's
1204 Bragg Blvd.
Mon. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Tues.-Sat. 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
Sun. 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
910-229-3490
https://anchorallies.com/
A laid-back eatery serving hearty comfort dishes like juicy burgers and flavorful tacos, alongside a diverse drink menu featuring craft cocktails, beer, and signature espresso martinis.