Dining and Drinks

Good food, craft brews, and plenty of local flavor make Sanford the perfect place to pull up a chair.

Cafe Vesuvio

A Sanford favorite, this Italian restaurant turns the freshest ingredients into delicious plates of pasta, salads, pizza made with homemade dough and much more.

Caked Up by Nica

Turn your vision into reality with custom cakes and treats for any occasion, all handcrafted fresh with quality ingredients.

Camelback Brewing

Come see where craft and beer meet at this friendly local brewery that always strives to offer something new and different. Visitors flock here for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Brannan Schlitz BBQ

Brannan Schlitz serves up takeout orders of great smoked meats like mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, turkey sausage and more.

Matilda’s Coffee

Matilda's Coffee Shop is a family-run and veteran-owned favorite in Sanford, NC, serving fresh smoothies, waffles, and organic espresso sourced from Raleigh’s Larry's Coffee. Welcoming every visitor, they offer plenty of sugar-free and lactose-free options alongside year-round discounts for military personnel, first responders, teachers, and students.

Brass Kettle Café

Relax with homestyle comfort food like burgers, pancakes, and fried catfish.

Parker’s Pizza

Broadway’s go-to for personal pizzas, fresh salads, and homemade appetizers.

Wana Navu Kava Bar

Wana Navu Kava Bar is a non-alcoholic, "feel good" bar with locations in Sanford and Fayetteville, North Carolina. They serve an eclectic mix of all-natural drinks designed to relieve stress and provide a buzz without the booze, including fresh South Pacific kava, botanical elixirs, locally sourced kombucha, coffee, and tea.

Ron’s Barn Barbecue & Seafood

Ron’s Barn is home to the best country cooking, which includes barbecue. Go for either the fresh chopped barbecue or the savory barbecue pork ribs.

Fat Juniors Grill & Catering

Fat Juniors is a local eatery specializing in fast, flavorful breakfast and lunch options, plus catering services.

Hunan Chinese Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Chinese dishes in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.

Hollywood Pizza

Casual pizzeria known for fresh-topped pies and classic subs made to order.

The Liberation

Step into a century-old building that has been carefully preserved and thoughtfully transformed. Exposed brick, original oak floors, and warm amber light set the stage for an evening unlike anything else in central North Carolina.

The Sweet Shop

Treat yourself to gourmet fudge, candy apples, and other handmade sweets.

Hokkaido Restaurant

From signature rolls to comforting miso soup, Hokkaido Restaurant delivers fresh, flavorful Asian fusion cuisine for dine-in or takeout.

Tramway Diner

All-day breakfast and diner classics served with friendly Southern hospitality.

Fresh Choice Café

A local favorite for fresh salads, sandwiches, soups, and daily specials made with care and flavor in the heart of Sanford.

Millie’s Mama Bakes

For hand-crafted, cookie goodness, head over to this gourmet shop pronto! Choose from a menu of small batch delights that changes weekly.

Mrs. Lacy’s Magnolia House

Stop in for tea at this beautiful house turned quaint tearoom serving lunch daily, both inside and outside via its wraparound porch.

Local Joe’s

For over 20 years, this local pub and restaurant has offered locals and visitors a friendly spot to relax. Grab a beer or cocktail and chow down on delicious wings, burgers, pizza and more.

Los Charros Mexican Restaurant

Voted one of the five best Mexican Restaurants in NC. Los Charros serves up authentic fare from enchiladas to tacos and more. Family-friendly and inviting, you'll feel right at home.

Hawkins Grill

Neighborhood spot serving pizza, stromboli, and other Italian-American favorites.

Star House Wings and Hibachi

A local go-to for hibachi, seafood, wings, and comfort food favorites served in a laid-back setting.

El Molcajete

Enjoy authentic Mexican dishes, savory seafood, and flavorful tacos in a warm, family-style setting.

Bay Breeze Seafood

Family-owned restaurant serving fried, broiled, and steamed seafood alongside steaks and chicken.

Smoke and Barrel

At this unique neighborhood pub, folks crave the slow-cooked smoked pork, savor the beef brisket and take delight in live music and drinks.

The Debonair Chef

As a boutique catering company, The Debonair Chef crafts tailored menus and elevated culinary experiences for unforgettable celebrations.

Catherine Ann’s Grill and Cookie House

Enjoy Southern-style burgers, Filipino eats, and handmade desserts at this family-run favorite.

El Rolas Restaurant and Bar

Relaxed spot offering tacos, fajitas, soups, and other Mexican favorites for dine-in or takeout.

Scoops

Downtown Sanford’s hot dog stand is just that – a wooden stand you can either walk up to or drive up to. But, you won't find a better hot dog anywhere else, guaranteed!

Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar

For the best burgers and hot dogs in town, Corbett's is the place. For a taste of yesterday proudly served today, stop on by!

Hugger Mugger Brewing

Celebrating the mystery of Sanford, NC with its branding and intriguing, beer hall décor, Hugger Mugger brews up 18 delicious beers for the true connoisseur.

Wana Navu Kava Bar

Inspired by global cultures, Wana Navu Kava Bar offers fresh kava, herbal elixirs, coffee, and locally sourced kombucha.

Tasting Queens Market

Experience a fresh take on farm-to-table Caribbean flavor at Tasting Queens Market in Sanford, North Carolina. Created by Chef Shauna, this eco-conscious market and bakery pairs locally sourced North Carolina produce with handcrafted spice blends, sauces, and gourmet Caribbean pantry essentials.

North State Nutrition

Sip energizing teas and protein shakes designed to refresh, refuel, and keep you feeling your best.

Yarborough’s Homemade Ice Cream

Family-run and operated since 1935, Yarborough’s is well-known for its homemade ice cream and juicy burgers.

Coal Miner’s Diner

Step back in time and enjoy classic diner fare served with small-town charm.

Landmark Restaurant

Local favorite for breakfast, brunch, and comfort classics served all day.

Wedgie’s (Coming Soon)

Wedgies Sandwich Shop specializes in hot deli sandwiches on parbaked pizza crust. The sandwiches are cut in the shape of a wedge, hence the name ‘Wedgies’.

A Toda Madre

Family-run eatery serving handmade tortillas and authentic Mexican comfort food made with heart.

Crab Seafood House Sanford

Dive into fresh Cajun seafood boils, succulent crab legs, and crispy fried fish in a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.

Stubbs & Sons BBQ

Known for their eastern North Carolina style chopped BBQ, Stubbs & Sons gives you the authentic Carolina barbecue experience.

San Felipe Mexican Restaurant

A family-owned favorite serving cherished recipes and warm hospitality the San Felipe way.

Quick Bites

Fill up on some of the finest soups, salads and sandwiches at this fast-casual restaurant – a Sanford favorite.

Woodard Family BBQ

Get a dose of down-home southern hospitality along with some seriously tasty barbecue plates at this family-owned and operated restaurant.

Sandra’s Bakery

Indulge in the sugary goodness of donuts, cakes, pies and other baked goods made from scratch.

Brick City Boba

Craving treats that will satisfy the biggest sweet tooth? Go in for the Brick City Boba experience. It's heaven in both a cup and a bowl!

Dips and Dawgs

A nostalgic Broadway favorite serving hot dogs, ice cream, and homemade treats in a cozy, retro setting.

Lilly’s Mexican Restaurant

Family-friendly favorite serving traditional Mexican dishes and fresh, flavorful street tacos.

La Esperanza Mexican Taqueria Restaurant

Start your day with breakfast burritos or explore the wide variety of flavors in classic Mexican meals at this low-key eatery.

Tacos El Primo

Tacos El Primo, Inc. is an affordable Mexican restaurant located on South Horner Boulevard in Sanford, North Carolina. Known for its strong presence in the local community, it serves classic Mexican fare and offers online ordering.

Davison’s Steak House

Voted "The Most Romantic Restaurant" in Lee County, Davison's also happens to boast the "Best Steaks" as well. Book a reservation for a truly memorable meal.

La Dolce Vita Pizzeria

Hop downtown to savor simple, hand-crafted authentic Neapolitan pizza that embodies true Italian taste.

Saladang Thai Kitchen

Experience refined Thai cuisine featuring signature dishes like Pad Thai, Drunken Noodles, and flavorful curries in an elegant setting.

Valenti’s Italian Restaurant

Family-owned and operated since 1996, Valenti’s serves classic Italian favorites and made-from-scratch dishes crafted with quality ingredients imported from Italy and New York.

Great American Cookie Company

Home of the Original Cookie Cake, featuring fresh-baked cookies and brownies made daily with specialty flavors.

Aye! Toro Mexican Restaurant

Bring the entire family over to enjoy creative spins on traditional Mexican dishes. Kids can enjoy their own menu to choose from.

Family Grounds Coffee Co.

Enjoy expertly roasted, specialty-grade coffee sourced directly from farmers. No gimmicks, just quality and care in every cup.

Big T’s Restaurant

Dig into local favorites like burgers, hot dogs, and more at this longtime Sanford staple.

Fairview Dairy Bar

Treat yourself and the family to tried-and-true diner food at this casual American eatery and ice cream shop.

Jose’s Bakery and Ice Cream

Enjoy fresh-baked cakes, scoops of ice cream, and authentic Mexican food at this sweet and savory neighborhood spot.

Bubba’s Subs and Pizza

Locally owned and operated, Bubba's is known for having some of the best subs and pizza slices in all of Lee County.

Merlina’s Bakery and Coffee

Savor authentic Mexican breads, pastries, tortas, and coffee at this relaxed neighborhood bakery.

Gigi’s Creations

Custom catering for weddings, celebrations, and special events.

Goodfellas Grill and Sports Pub

Pair your favorite drink with classic pub fare, fusion dishes, and daily specials in a relaxed setting.

Fonda Lupita

Taste home-style Mexican cooking rooted in tradition at this women-owned restaurant serving authentic recipes from Queretaro.

C & J’s Taps & Corks

C&J's Taps & Corks is a veteran-owned bottle shop and pour bar in Sanford, North Carolina, offering a rotating lineup of craft beers on tap, curated wines by the glass, and over 100 bottled and canned selections. Founded by three military veterans, it serves as a welcoming community hub featuring regular events like live music, yoga, and game-day watch parties.

Pie’s Pizza

Serving up pizzas, calzones, wings, and more in a casual, family atmosphere.

Wild Dogs Brewing

Offering six beers on tap and a small food menu, Wild Dogs is the latest entry in Sanford's growing beer scene. Swing by to enjoy a fun atmosphere and super friendly staff.

Ichiban Bistro

Savor fresh sushi rolls, hibachi, and Japanese favorites crafted with quality ingredients and authentic flavor.

Broadway Brews

📍Opening soon in Broadway, NC. Breakfast, lunch, baked goods & most importantly- Coffee ☕️

Elizabeth’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant

Gather the family for Italian classics—sandwiches, pizza, and pasta served in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.

The Flame Steakhouse

The Flame boasts a cozy atmosphere, elegant ambiance and delicious meals prepared over an open flame.

La Terrazita

Savor fajitas, margaritas, and classic Mexican eats on the inviting outdoor patio.