Who we are

Since 1956, Zora’s Seafood Market has been a Castle Street institution, serving up fresh local catch with a warmth and charm that makes everyone feel at home. Known for its buzzing market and community energy, Zora’s is the place locals and visitors flock to for boiled shrimp, crispy fried fish, fresh fillets, and feisty crabs. It’s all about the joy of proper, flavor-packed seafood—with a healthy dash of fun.

Our seafood market is growing, bringing more of the Carolina coast to your plate. Alongside the usual favorites—fish, shrimp, oysters, and crabs—we’re adding carefully picked seasonal and sustainable catches like grouper, tilefish, tuna, and swordfish. Each item is chosen for quality, freshness, and a strong connection to local waters—the perfect balance of tradition and something unexpected.

The seafood counter remains the beating heart of Zora’s. Chat with our fishmongers, explore the bounty of North Carolina waters, and take home ingredients that turn everyday dinners into coastal feasts. Every visit is a chance to discover something new from the sea.

The restaurant is open, serving a bold, coastal menu that honors Zora’s classics while adding fresh energy. The star? Steamer Bags—a hands-on, napkin-heavy celebration of the Carolina coast. Packed with Zora’s seasoning, tender potatoes, sweet corn, sambal butter, spiced boiled peanuts, bright lemon, and a buttered roll, all wrapped around plump shrimp and briny clams. Messy, generous, and perfect for sharing.

Feeling daring? Steamer Bags are built to customize. Add Blue Crab, Stone Crab, Snow Crab clusters, or beef Andouille sausage for extra punch. Hosting a party? “You Buy, We Fry.” Pick any seafood from the market, and we’ll bread and fry it for you—perfect for a quick, indulgent treat.

Zora’s is more than a seafood shop. It’s a Castle Street fixture, a hub for the community, and a taste of Wilmington’s soul—louder, bolder, and more delicious than ever.