When you think of the North Carolina coast, you probably picture sun-drenched beaches and iced tea. But for locals in New Hanover and Brunswick counties, there is a special magic to the "off-season."

When the winter chill settles over the Cape Fear River, the humidity vanishes, and the desire for a "cozy night out" takes over. While our winters are mild, the damp coastal air can cut right through a jacket, making a warm fire the ultimate luxury.

Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner or a place to gather with friends, here are the best spots in and around Wilmington to find a fire feature this season.

1. Gazebo Bar at Dram Yard (Downtown Wilmington)

Located in the courtyard of the ARRIVE hotel, Gazebo Bar has mastered the art of "hygge."

The Vibe: This isn't just a patio; it is a sunken garden sanctuary. They feature dedicated "fire pit nooks" surrounded by lush greenery and historic brick.

The Menu: Known for their craft cocktail program, this is the perfect spot to sip a hot toddy or a smoked Old Fashioned. It feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city.

2. Concorde Espresso Bar (Downtown Wilmington)

Don't let the name fool you; this isn't just a morning coffee stop. By night, the courtyard behind the Front Street Inn transforms into one of the most intimate spots in town.

The Fire Feature: A communal fire table anchors the outdoor space, inviting strangers to become friends.

The "Must-Do": Order one of their famous S'mores Kits. Roasting marshmallows over an open flame with an espresso martini in hand is a core memory waiting to happen.

3. Smoke on the Water (Riverlights)

If you want water views without the wind chill, this is your spot.

The Setting: Perched on the Cape Fear River in the Riverlights community, their expansive deck features large fire pits that offer warmth while you watch the sunset over the marsh.

Why Go: It’s arguably the best sunset view in Wilmington. The fire pits make it possible to enjoy "al fresco" dining even in January.

4. Blockade Runner Resort (Wrightsville Beach)

For those who refuse to leave the island, the Blockade Runner offers oceanfront warmth.

The Feature: Their oceanfront lawn often features fire pits during the cooler months. There is something uniquely grounding about the smell of a wood fire mixed with the salt air of the Atlantic Ocean.

5. Caprice Bistro (Downtown Wilmington)

If you prefer to stay strictly indoors, head to this French staple.

The Experience: While the downstairs is a bustling bistro, the upstairs Sofa Bar offers a darker, more intimate vibe. With plush seating and a cozy atmosphere that feels worlds away from the street below, it’s the perfect place to split a bottle of red wine and escape the cold.

Finding Your "Hearth" at Home

We love these restaurants, but we also know that the best fireplace is the one in your own living room.

In Southeastern North Carolina, a working fireplace—whether it’s a historic masonry hearth in Carolina Heights or a modern gas aesthetic in Porters Neck—is a highly sought-after feature. It turns a house into a sanctuary.

At Aspyre Realty Group, we know which neighborhoods offer the best "cozy" potential. We can help you find a home with that perfect reading nook, the south-facing sunroom, or the outdoor fireplace that makes winter your favorite season.

If you are ready to find a home that keeps you warm all year round, let’s start the search today.