Wilmington, North Carolina, is known for its vibrant culinary scene, and one standout destination for authentic Mexican cuisine is Camino Real. The restaurant offers a diverse menu that showcases traditional flavors alongside contemporary twists, catering to both locals and visitors craving a genuine taste of Mexico.
Whether you’re in the mood for hearty tacos, savory enchiladas, or refreshing margaritas, Camino Real Wilmington NC presents an extensive selection that highlights fresh ingredients and bold spices. The atmosphere complements the food perfectly, creating an inviting space for casual dining or special occasions alike.
From appetizers bursting with flavor to decadent desserts, the menu is thoughtfully crafted to satisfy a variety of palates. Diners appreciate the balance between classic dishes and innovative options that keep the experience exciting.
The use of local produce combined with authentic recipes ensures every bite resonates with cultural richness. It’s not just about food here—it’s about an immersive culinary journey that honors Mexican traditions while embracing modern tastes.
Exploring the Camino Real Wilmington NC menu reveals a commitment to quality and variety, making it a go-to spot for anyone seeking a memorable meal in the area. The detailed offerings, paired with attentive service, create a dining experience that keeps guests coming back.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Mexican cuisine or trying it for the first time, the menu offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizers at Camino Real set the tone for an unforgettable meal. Designed to awaken the palate, these starters offer a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant and diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine.
Each dish is carefully prepared to balance freshness and spice, making them perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Popular choices include traditional options like guacamole made fresh at the table, offering a creamy, zesty start to any meal. The restaurant’s signature nachos are a crowd favorite, loaded with melted cheese, jalapeños, and your choice of meat or beans.
Another standout is the ceviche, which combines fresh seafood with tangy citrus flavors, delivering a refreshing bite.
Popular Appetizer Highlights
- Guacamole: Freshly mashed avocados, lime juice, cilantro, and diced tomatoes served with crispy tortilla chips.
- Loaded Nachos: Tortilla chips layered with melted cheese, jalapeños, black beans, and your choice of grilled chicken or beef.
- Ceviche: Marinated shrimp or fish in lime juice with onions, tomatoes, and cilantro, served chilled.
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese with chorizo and poblano peppers, perfect for dipping.
“The appetizers are the perfect introduction to the bold flavors that Camino Real is known for — fresh, vibrant, and full of character.”
These starters not only complement the main dishes but also stand strong on their own, making them ideal for guests who appreciate a multifaceted dining experience. Each appetizer offers a unique take on traditional Mexican ingredients, ensuring a satisfying beginning to your meal.
Main Courses
The main course options at Camino Real Wilmington encompass a broad spectrum of traditional Mexican dishes, expertly prepared to highlight authentic tastes and textures. These entrees showcase the depth of Mexican culinary heritage, featuring rich sauces, grilled meats, and vibrant salsas.
Signature dishes include enchiladas, tacos, fajitas, and tamales, each with customizable options to suit dietary preferences. The enchiladas come smothered in red or green sauce, filled with chicken, beef, or cheese.
Tacos are served on handmade corn or flour tortillas with a variety of fillings, from carnitas to grilled vegetables.
Entree Options and Customization
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Available Sauces | Serving Style |
| Enchiladas | Chicken, Beef, Cheese | Red Chili, Green Tomatillo, Mole | Plated with rice and beans |
| Tacos | Carnitas, Grilled Chicken, Vegetables | Salsa Verde, Pico de Gallo | Street-style with lime wedges |
| Fajitas | Steak, Chicken, Shrimp | Grilled Peppers & Onions | Served sizzling with tortillas |
| Tamales | Pork, Cheese & Jalapeño | Red Sauce or Sour Cream | Wrapped in corn husk |
The versatility of the main courses allows guests to mix and match components, making each meal uniquely theirs. From the smoky depth of mole sauce to the bright tang of salsa verde, the menu caters to a range of flavor preferences.
“Every dish feels thoughtfully crafted, respecting tradition while inviting personal customization — a true hallmark of great Mexican cooking.”
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Camino Real Wilmington NC recognizes the growing demand for plant-based dishes and offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan selections without compromising on flavor or authenticity. These options are crafted to provide hearty, satisfying meals that appeal to all diners.
Vegetarian dishes often feature beans, fresh vegetables, and traditional Mexican grains like rice and corn. Vegan options exclude dairy and meat but maintain richness through creative use of spices and fresh produce.
The restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity ensures everyone can enjoy a vibrant meal.
Notable Plant-Based Dishes
- Vegetarian Enchiladas: Filled with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and cheese (can be made vegan with dairy-free cheese).
- Vegan Tacos: Featuring spiced jackfruit or grilled vegetables topped with guacamole and salsa.
- Bean Burrito: Black beans, rice, and pico de gallo wrapped in a warm tortilla, available with or without cheese.
- Grilled Vegetable Fajitas: Seasonal vegetables served sizzling with tortillas and fresh lime.
These dishes highlight the versatility of Mexican cuisine and the kitchen’s ability to adapt traditional recipes while respecting dietary restrictions. The freshness of the ingredients shines through, creating rich textures and complex flavors.
“A truly inclusive menu that proves vegetarian and vegan Mexican food can be just as satisfying and flavorful as any meat-based dish.”
Drinks and Beverages
Complementing the robust menu, Camino Real offers an impressive array of drinks that enhance the dining experience. From classic cocktails to non-alcoholic options, the beverage menu caters to all tastes and moods.
The bar is known for its expertly crafted margaritas, employing fresh lime juice and premium tequilas. In addition, the selection includes Mexican beers, specialty cocktails, and house-made aguas frescas that provide refreshing alternatives for those avoiding alcohol.
Signature Beverages
- Classic Margarita: Tequila, fresh lime juice, triple sec, served on the rocks or frozen.
- Paloma: Tequila mixed with grapefruit soda and a pinch of salt for a tangy, refreshing sip.
- Aguas Frescas: Natural fruit waters such as hibiscus, tamarind, and mango, perfect for a light, sweet refreshment.
- Mexican Beer: Selection includes Corona, Modelo Especial, and Pacifico.
Whether you’re unwinding with a cocktail or opting for a flavorful non-alcoholic beverage, these drinks are designed to pair seamlessly with the food, balancing spice and richness.
“The attention to detail in every cocktail reflects the same passion seen in the kitchen — fresh, balanced, and full of character.”
Desserts
Finishing the meal at Camino Real is a delight with a selection of classic Mexican desserts that provide the perfect sweet ending. Each dessert combines traditional ingredients with comforting textures and flavors.
Popular items include churros dusted with cinnamon sugar and served with chocolate sauce, tres leches cake rich with creamy sweetness, and flan, a silky caramel custard. These desserts are crafted to satisfy any sweet tooth without overwhelming the palate.
Dessert Favorites
- Churros: Crispy fried dough sticks coated in cinnamon sugar, paired with warm chocolate or caramel sauce.
- Tres Leches Cake: A moist sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.
- Flan: Smooth caramel custard with a delicate texture and rich caramel topping.
- Sopapillas: Puffy fried pastries drizzled with honey and cinnamon.
These desserts offer a harmonious conclusion to the meal, emphasizing the sweet and comforting side of Mexican cuisine.
“The desserts are thoughtfully prepared, each bite evoking warmth and tradition in every spoonful.”
Specials and Seasonal Dishes
Camino Real frequently updates its menu with specials and seasonal dishes that highlight fresh, local ingredients and celebrate regional Mexican cuisine. These limited-time offerings provide guests with new flavors and unique culinary experiences beyond the standard menu.
Seasonal specials often incorporate the bounty of Wilmington’s local farms and coastal seafood, ensuring freshness and supporting local producers. These dishes are perfect for adventurous diners wanting to explore different aspects of Mexican cooking.
Examples of Recent Specials
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Season/Occasion |
| Grilled Mahi Mahi Tacos | Mahi Mahi, Cabbage Slaw, Chipotle Aioli | Summer |
| Pumpkin Mole Enchiladas | Pumpkin, Mole Sauce, Queso Fresco | Fall |
| Chile Relleno Stuffed Peppers | Poblano Peppers, Cheese, Tomato Sauce | Winter |
| Fresh Strawberry Agua Fresca | Strawberries, Lime, Sugar | Spring |
These specials reflect the restaurant’s dedication to innovation while honoring the core principles of Mexican cuisine. They also invite regular patrons to enjoy new tastes throughout the year.
“The seasonal specials keep the menu dynamic and exciting, encouraging diners to return and discover the freshest flavors Wilmington has to offer.”
Family Meals and Catering Options
Camino Real Wilmington NC understands the importance of sharing great food with family and friends, offering family meal packages and catering services suitable for gatherings of all sizes. These options make it easy to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in the comfort of your home or at special events.
The family meals include a variety of dishes that accommodate different tastes and dietary needs, making them ideal for celebrations or casual get-togethers. Catering services provide customizable menus with professional service to ensure a seamless dining experience.
Family Meal Highlights
- Combo Platters: Include a choice of main courses, rice, beans, and tortillas to serve multiple guests.
- Appetizer Trays: Featuring guacamole, chips, and assorted dips, perfect for starting any event.
- Custom Menus: Designed to fit dietary restrictions and preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.
- Beverage Packages: Include soft drinks and margaritas to complement the food.
Whether hosting a small family dinner or a large celebration, Camino Real’s catering and meal packages provide convenience without sacrificing quality or authenticity.
“Their catering services bring the rich flavors of Mexico directly to your event, with attention to detail that ensures every guest leaves satisfied.”
Conclusion
The Camino Real Wilmington NC menu is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, thoughtfully adapted to suit a modern audience. Each section of the menu, from appetizers to desserts, is carefully designed to showcase authentic flavors while offering variety and customization.
Guests can enjoy classic dishes alongside innovative specials, all prepared with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Vegetarian and vegan options ensure inclusivity, while the drink selection enhances every meal with perfectly paired beverages. Seasonal dishes and catering services further demonstrate the restaurant’s commitment to providing memorable dining experiences for every occasion.
The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service only add to the appeal, making Camino Real a cornerstone of Wilmington’s dining scene.
For those seeking a flavorful journey through traditional Mexican cuisine, Camino Real offers a diverse and satisfying menu that blends heritage with contemporary flair. Whether dining in or ordering for a gathering, the restaurant consistently delivers quality, authenticity, and hospitality that keeps patrons returning time and again.
