Nestled just off the scenic edges of Myrtle Grove, Old Chimney is more than a tranquil residential pocket—it’s a budding culinary destination, filled with charming local eateries, bakeries, cafés, and food trucks that promise to delight both newcomers and longtime residents. If you find yourself wandering the oak-lined streets around Chimney Lane and Old Chimney Road, you’re in for a treat. Here’s an immersive guide to Old Chimney’s best dining spots, from cozy breakfast nooks to unmissable dinner experiences, all seasoned with the authentic flavor of this unique neighborhood.
Morning Magic: Breakfast & Coffee Scenes
Kickstart your day on Chimney Lane with a visit to Blue Oak Café, a beloved gathering place where the scent of fresh-baked muffins welcomes you at the door. The café’s sunny corner location (at Chimney Ln & Grove Ave) ensures a bright, airy vibe. Here’s what makes it special:
- *Homemade pastries*: Try the cheesy jalapeño scones or blueberry buttermilk muffins.
- *Specialty coffees*: Locally roasted blends, including their signature “Old Chimney Roast.”
- *Price Range*: $3-$7 for most breakfast items.
Just a block away, The Red Door Bakery (near Old Chimney Rd & Grove Ave) is an artisanal bread haven known for its crusty sourdough and inventive seasonal danishes (the blackberry-basil version is a must in summer!). Early risers love their array of quiches and sturdy breakfast sandwiches, perfect for fueling up before a day at the nearby beaches.
Lunchtime Favorites & Food Truck Finds
Midday in Old Chimney means food trucks roll into neighborhood hot spots like the shaded lot at Chimney Park. Locals line up at Fork & Fritter, a funky food truck renowned for:
- *Southern comfort specials*: Chicken and waffles, pimento cheese sliders.
- *Vegetarian standouts*: Crispy fried green tomato BLT on fresh-baked biscuits.
- *Price Range*: $8-$14 per meal.
For a global twist, pop over to The Tasty Tamarind parked frequently at the corner of Old Chimney Rd & Willow St. Their vibrant Thai noodle bowls and mango sticky rice offer fresh, affordable lunch options ($10-$13).
Prefer a sit-down lunch? Willow & Thyme Bistro (just off Willow St) is a charming leafy patio spot. Their sweet potato and roasted fennel salad changes with the seasons, as does the daily soup board. Light lunches hover around $9-$12, while heartier plates like the crispy fish sandwich run $15.
Sweet Spots & Afternoon Pick-Me-Ups
Old Chimney’s bakeries are local legends, especially Sugar Shell Confections on Grove Ave, where the cinnamon rolls and lemon bars sell out before mid-afternoon. Pop in for a coffee break and pick up a few *mini tarts*—the salted caramel and chocolate hazelnut are fan favorites.
Hidden in a bright blue cottage near Chimney Ln & Lake Dr, Myrtle Cocoa Co. is the ultimate destination for all things chocolate. Whether you’re craving a European-style hot chocolate or a box of artisan truffles, this spot is a chocolate lover’s dream—and an excellent detour during afternoon strolls.
Dinner Destinations: From Family Dining to Date Night
When the sun dips low, Old Chimney’s dinner destinations truly shine. The Hearth Table, perched conveniently at the corner of Old Chimney Rd & Beachview Ct, delivers a warm, lively ambiance—perfect for family dinners or special nights out. Here’s why it’s a neighborhood staple:
- *Wood-fired pizzas*: Try the Chimney Special with smoked mozzarella, basil, and house-made sausage.
- *Seasonal entrées*: Local seafood risottos, slow-braised short ribs, and vegetarian gnocchi.
- *Price Range*: Pizzas $14–$18, mains $18–$27.
For a more intimate meal, Tide’s Edge Grill (on Willow St at the southern tip of Old Chimney) spotlights coastal Carolina fare with a modern twist. Standout dishes include blackened flounder with corn succotash and Lowcountry shrimp & grits. Their dessert menu—banana pudding crème brûlée!—is legendary among locals. Expect to pay $20-$35 for dinner, with a laid-back, upscale-casual vibe.
Hidden Gems & Community Classics
No guide to Old Chimney would be complete without mentioning Grove Deli & Market (tucked beside the Shell station on Grove Ave), a real community anchor. This unpretentious spot is famous for its oversized hoagies, homemade potato chips, and deli salads—a perfect grab-and-go option for beach picnics or quick work lunches.
Food lovers also flock to The Garden Table Exchange, an occasional Saturday pop-up market near Old Chimney Park, where home cooks and bakers sell everything from focaccia to fresh jams. Don’t miss the chance to sample homemade pimento cheese or spiced pecan brittle—these small-batch specialties offer a true taste of the neighborhood.
Savoring Tradition: What Makes Old Chimney Unique
Food here isn’t just about eating—it’s about connection. On Friday nights, it’s common to see families gathering under the twinkling lights at Chimney Park for community “food truck round-ups.” During summer, fresh-caught seafood often appears on specials boards, and bakeries swap recipes with neighbors sharing their own backyard produce.
Old Chimney’s food scene excels because it’s local, approachable, and just a little bit off the beaten path. It’s a place where chefs and bakers know their regulars, and where the best meals come garnished with stories and smiles.
Whether you’re grabbing a morning pastry, savoring a sunset dinner, or sampling small-batch treats at a weekend market, Old Chimney serves up flavors as welcoming as its neighborhood spirit. Next time you’re hungry in Myrtle Grove, skip the main drag and discover why Old Chimney is fast becoming one of the Cape Fear region’s most delicious destinations.