Situated in the charming town of Duncans Mills, Cape Fear Restaurant offers a culinary experience that beautifully blends coastal flavors with rustic charm. Known for its inviting atmosphere and a menu that showcases fresh, local ingredients, Cape Fear has quickly become a favorite destination for food lovers seeking both comfort and creativity.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch or a memorable dinner, the menu is thoughtfully curated to satisfy a variety of palates, featuring dishes that range from hearty seafood to inventive vegetarian options.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish, with a focus on seasonal availability and sustainable sourcing. Each plate tells a story of the region’s rich bounty, paired with expertly crafted drinks and desserts that complete the dining experience.
Cape Fear Restaurant not only offers a meal but an exploration of flavors that celebrate the coastal heritage of Northern California.
From the first bite to the last sip, guests can expect a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary culinary techniques, making the menu at Cape Fear a true reflection of Duncans Mills’ vibrant food scene.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the restaurant’s menu promises a delicious journey that will delight and inspire.
Appetizers and Small Plates
Beginning your meal at Cape Fear with their selection of appetizers is a perfect way to awaken the senses. The small plates are designed to be shared, allowing diners to sample a variety of flavors and textures.
Each dish showcases fresh, locally sourced ingredients with inventive twists that turn simple starters into memorable bites.
The appetizers range from light and refreshing to rich and savory, catering to diverse preferences. Whether you prefer something crisp and tangy or warm and indulgent, the menu offers a balanced array of options to suit your mood and complement your upcoming meal.
“Our appetizers are crafted to ignite your palate and set the tone for an extraordinary dining experience.” – Executive Chef at Cape Fear
Highlights from the Starter Menu
- Oyster Rockefeller: Fresh oysters topped with a blend of spinach, cheese, and herbs, baked to golden perfection.
- Calamari Fritti: Lightly battered and fried squid served with a spicy aioli dipping sauce.
- Local Artisanal Cheese Plate: A curated selection of California cheeses paired with seasonal fruit and honey.
- Roasted Beet Salad: A vibrant mix of roasted beets, goat cheese, arugula, and candied pecans drizzled with balsamic reduction.
Flavor Profiles and Pairings
The appetizers are crafted to pair beautifully with Cape Fear’s drink offerings, from crisp whites to robust reds and craft cocktails. The Oyster Rockefeller, for example, pairs exceptionally well with a dry Sauvignon Blanc, enhancing the briny freshness of the oysters.
Meanwhile, the Calamari Fritti complements a citrus-forward IPA, balancing the dish’s richness.
Vegetarian options such as the Roasted Beet Salad provide a fresh, earthy counterpoint to the heavier plates, ensuring there’s something for everyone at the start of the meal.
Main Courses
The main course selection at Cape Fear Restaurant is a showcase of the coastal region’s best seafood, alongside expertly prepared meat and vegetarian dishes. This section of the menu is designed to highlight the natural flavors of the ingredients while incorporating creative culinary techniques that elevate each dish.
Guests can expect a variety of options that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. The emphasis on freshness and quality shines through every entrée, making the main courses the heart of the dining experience at Cape Fear.
Signature Seafood Dishes
Seafood lovers will find plenty to delight in, with dishes that emphasize sustainable and local catches. The Pacific Northwest influences are evident in the preparation and seasoning, resulting in plates that are both familiar and exciting.
- Seared Alaskan Halibut: Served with a lemon beurre blanc, seasonal vegetables, and wild rice pilaf.
- Dungeness Crab Cakes: Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, accompanied by a remoulade sauce and mixed greens.
- Pan-Roasted Scallops: Paired with roasted garlic mashed potatoes and a vibrant herb sauce.
Meat and Vegetarian Main Courses
For those seeking hearty flavors beyond seafood, the meat dishes offer rich, satisfying options. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing is reflected in the use of grass-fed beef and free-range poultry, ensuring quality and ethical standards.
- Grass-Fed Ribeye Steak: Grilled to perfection and served with a red wine reduction and garlic butter asparagus.
- Herb-Crusted Free-Range Chicken: Accompanied by roasted root vegetables and a light pan jus.
- Wild Mushroom Risotto: Creamy Arborio rice cooked with seasonal mushrooms and finished with Parmesan cheese, ideal for vegetarians.
Soups and Salads
Soups and salads at Cape Fear Restaurant emphasize freshness and seasonal ingredients, offering light yet flavorful options that work well as starters or lighter meals. The menu focuses on balancing textures and tastes, creating dishes that are both nourishing and satisfying.
These selections are perfect for those seeking a palate cleanser between courses or a wholesome meal on their own. The soups are often prepared daily, reflecting the freshest ingredients available.
Seasonal Soups
The soup offerings vary with the seasons, ensuring that every bowl is packed with the best produce and flavors of the moment. From creamy chowders to vibrant vegetable broths, the soups provide warmth and comfort.
- Clam Chowder: A classic creamy soup with tender clams, potatoes, and fresh herbs.
- Tomato Basil Bisque: Smooth and rich, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety blend with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, served with toasted pumpkin seeds.
Fresh Salad Creations
The salads combine crisp greens, fresh vegetables, and vibrant dressings to create refreshing options that are both healthy and flavorful. Many salads incorporate nuts, cheeses, and seasonal fruits for added depth.
- Mixed Greens with Citrus Vinaigrette: A light and zesty salad featuring seasonal greens and segments of orange and grapefruit.
- Caesar Salad: Classic romaine lettuce tossed with house-made dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
- Quinoa and Kale Salad: Packed with protein and nutrients, mixed with cranberries, almonds, and a lemon tahini dressing.
Sandwiches and Burgers
Cape Fear’s sandwiches and burgers offer a casual yet elevated dining option, perfect for lunch or a relaxed dinner. Each sandwich is crafted with thoughtfully sourced ingredients, combining bold flavors with satisfying textures.
The menu features a variety of choices, from hearty burgers to creative sandwiches that highlight fresh produce and house-made condiments. These dishes are designed to be both filling and flavorful, making them popular among locals and visitors alike.
Popular Sandwiches
- Crab Roll: Sweet Dungeness crab meat lightly tossed in a lemon mayo, served on a toasted brioche bun.
- Grilled Veggie Panini: Seasonal vegetables with melted mozzarella and pesto spread on artisan bread.
- Smoked Turkey Club: Layers of smoked turkey, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and aioli on whole grain bread.
Signature Burgers
The burger selection features juicy patties made from locally sourced beef, cooked to order, and topped with a variety of classic and gourmet ingredients. Each burger comes with hand-cut fries or a side salad.
| Burger | Toppings | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Cheeseburger | Cheddar, lettuce, tomato, pickles, special sauce | $15 |
| Bacon Blue Burger | Bacon, blue cheese, caramelized onions, arugula | $18 |
| Mushroom Swiss Burger | Sautéed mushrooms, Swiss cheese, garlic aioli | $17 |
Desserts
The dessert menu at Cape Fear Restaurant offers a sweet conclusion to any meal, featuring both classic favorites and innovative creations. Each dessert is crafted with attention to detail and the highest quality ingredients, turning simple sweets into indulgent treats.
Whether you crave chocolate, fruit, or something creamy, the dessert selection provides options that cater to different tastes and preferences. These final courses are perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Decadent Dessert Options
- Chocolate Lava Cake: Warm, rich chocolate cake with a molten center, served with vanilla bean ice cream.
- Lemon Panna Cotta: Silky and refreshing, topped with fresh berries and a citrus glaze.
- Seasonal Fruit Tart: A buttery crust filled with custard and topped with the freshest fruits of the season.
“Our desserts are designed to be the perfect finale, leaving guests with lasting memories of sweetness and satisfaction.” – Pastry Chef at Cape Fear
Beverages and Cocktails
Cape Fear Restaurant boasts an extensive beverage menu, including carefully selected wines, craft beers, and inventive cocktails. The drink offerings are designed to complement the food menu, enhancing the overall dining experience.
From refreshing non-alcoholic options to robust reds and creative mixed drinks, the beverage list caters to all tastes and occasions. The knowledgeable bar staff is always ready to recommend pairings or craft a custom cocktail to suit your preferences.
Wine Selection
The wine list features a diverse range of varietals from California’s renowned vineyards and beyond. From crisp whites to bold reds, the selection is curated to highlight the best of the region and enhance the flavors of the dishes served.
| Wine | Type | Price (Glass/Bottle) |
|---|---|---|
| Chardonnay | White | $10 / $40 |
| Pinot Noir | Red | $12 / $48 |
| Sauvignon Blanc | White | $9 / $36 |
| Cabernet Sauvignon | Red | $14 / $56 |
Craft Cocktails and Non-Alcoholic Options
- Coastal Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, and fresh lime, garnished with a sprig of rosemary.
- Spiced Pear Martini: Pear vodka, cinnamon syrup, and lemon juice, shaken to perfection.
- Virgin Cucumber Cooler: Fresh cucumber juice, mint, lime, and soda water for a refreshing non-alcoholic choice.
Special Dietary Options
Cape Fear Restaurant takes pride in accommodating various dietary needs and preferences. The menu clearly identifies gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a satisfying meal without compromise.
The kitchen staff is trained to handle special requests with care, using separate preparation methods to avoid cross-contamination. This attention to detail demonstrates the restaurant’s commitment to inclusivity and guest satisfaction.
Gluten-Free and Allergy-Friendly Choices
Many dishes on the menu are naturally gluten-free or can be modified to accommodate gluten sensitivities. The staff is happy to guide diners through the options to find meals that meet their dietary requirements.
- Grilled Salmon with seasonal vegetables
- Wild Mushroom Risotto (gluten-free on request)
- Mixed Greens Salad with citrus vinaigrette
Vegetarian and Vegan Selections
Vegetarian and vegan diners will find thoughtfully prepared dishes that highlight fresh produce and plant-based proteins. These options are designed to be flavorful and filling, proving that meat-free meals can be both satisfying and exciting.
- Quinoa and Kale Salad with lemon tahini dressing
- Grilled Vegetable Panini (vegan without cheese)
- Roasted Beet Salad with candied pecans and balsamic reduction
Conclusion
The Cape Fear Restaurant menu in Duncans Mills offers an exceptional culinary journey that celebrates the best of coastal Northern California’s ingredients and flavors. With a diverse range of dishes spanning appetizers, mains, and desserts, the menu caters to all tastes and dietary needs, ensuring a memorable experience for every guest.
From the fresh, inventive starters to the rich, satisfying main courses, each dish reflects a commitment to quality, sustainability, and creativity. The thoughtfully curated beverage list further enhances the dining experience, making Cape Fear a standout destination for food enthusiasts.
Whether you are seeking a casual meal or a special occasion dining experience, Cape Fear’s menu promises to delight and inspire. The restaurant’s dedication to exceptional service and culinary excellence ensures that every visit leaves a lasting impression of warmth, flavor, and hospitality.
