Cancel

Open app

Search

Pop's Diner

3.8 (303 reviews)
ModerateAmerican, Diners
Closed • 11:00 am - 10:00 pm

Pop's Diner Photos

Business Info

POP'S DINER ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Casual
Good for groups
Good for kids

You might also consider

Recommended Reviews - Pop's Diner

Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
Yelp app icon
Browse more easily on the app
Review Feed Illustration

Reviews With Photos

Grilled cheese and basket of fries
Lori W.

Adorable place right near the boardwalk in Carolina Beach! It was after 1:00 when we got there so we're not too hungry and shared a half basket of fries (more than enough for two) and I had grilled cheese (3 cheeses) and bacon and Hubby had a single burger. Both very delicious. Only complaint was way too much ice in my cherry coke and we did not have enough room to have dessert. Also, not open for breakfast so no eggs on the menu. Told Hubby this is a 50's diner and not a Jersey Diner so no all day breakfast

It's a winner
Waldemar G.

Where to start with this restaurant? First off, the location is in a great spot and the interior took me back to the early days of diners. I loved it. We were seated very quickly and Angela was very friendly and attentive to us. It was 4 of us, so we ended up sharing a few things just because everything sounded good and we couldn't make up our minds. We started with wings and they were good, just on the smaller side; if they were just bigger, it would be perfect. We also got the mac and cheese bites and they were a hit; not a single one survived. As for our main meal, we got a Philly cheesesteak, a chicken Philly cheesesteak, and a blackened chicken sandwich. Now the reason I put them all together is because they all tasted great, good flavor and everything, but their downfall was the bread; if they would have toasted the bread on them, it would be one of the best Philly in the area. And now for the Cuban sandwich, it was built right and the bread was toasted on a ciabatta bread that was just right, but they used their BBQ pulled pork for the pork, which is what it should be, but not with the BBQ flavor. Other than that, it would have been a great sandwich. Overall, the meal had potential, but a few tweaks could elevate it to the next level. I would definitely return to try more items from the menu, especially if they improve the bread situation. The atmosphere was lively, making it a perfect spot for a casual night out with friends. I left feeling satisfied but also curious about what else they might offer that could surprise me.

Shake
Theresa Z.

I was excited to hear about Pop Steiner. It's located on the main strip in Carolina Beach. It looked like an old school 50 diners from the outside. When you walk inside, they had nice comfy booths and there seem to be a lot of room. It's not what you think from the outside thinking that it's going to be tight. I brought my youngest with me at the time and we ordered some burgers, a milkshake and sweet tea. The food was average. It wasn't anything to write home about. I was kind of disappointed thinking that I found maybe one of the old school type diners that you would find up north. But it was suitable for where it was. It is at the beach frankly so I shouldn't expect anything more or less lol. It is decorated as if it's a 50s diner they didn't have the typical things you'd be used to like the music and all that good stuff the waitress was nice. The staff was nice. The people that were local eating. There were nice. My little one ironically, did not even like the milkshake which I found to be really ironic! But it could've been his mood more so than the taste! The burgers I don't know I've had better, but it was edible lol

Bang bang shrimp tacos
Olivia G.

My mom and I had a great time at Pop's Diner! Fun setting inside with great food and service. Angela was our server and she was delightful. I had their bang bang shrimp tacos and shrimp bisque; both were fantastic! Looking forward to returning here soon!

Rebecca M.

Pop's Diner was a highlight of my trip to Carolina Beach. The restaurant just has street parking and not a dedicated lot. I could walk from my nearby hoteI so that made it easier. When I saw there was a diner in Carolina Beach I needed I couldn't pass that up. Pop's Diner has a 50s decor. Service was friendly and I was given plenty of time to look through the large menu. I was planning to go with a burger but ended up with the flounder basket. I was expecting it to be similar to fish and chips but it was more like chicken tenders (but with flounder) The portion was very generous as I though I had one more piece and found three more at the bottom of the basket. A sauce was provided but I preferred the fish without the sauce. I had the sweet potato fries and corn on the cob too. The sweet potato fries were not a favorite but the corn was delicious. The hush puppies were also included. I did not have room for dessert so that will need to wait for another trip. :-)

Spicey mayo

I love diners and there vibes and this one was great for the vibes, was able to take a party of 10 without reservation pretty easily. I ordered the scrimp BLT with spicy mayo on the side and the spicy mayo had hair in it so I asked for a new one and she walked to the back and then came back out and handed me the same bowl with the same hair in it like I wouldn't notice. I lost my appetite after that so I couldn't even try the sandwich

12/7/23
Charlene C.

Love this retro diner and its diner food. This is where you come for comfort food. It's like you're transported back in time or you feel like you're in an episode of Riverdale when you sit in the dining area. We tried the sweet potato fries, fry dip sandwich, grilled cheese sandwich, chili, chicken and pastry, and corn chowder. Everything was overall good, but my favorites were the fry dip and chicken and pastry. The sweet potato fries were seasoned with cinnamon and sugar so it was like a dessert. They were fried just a little bit too long. Fry dip- you really can't beat the combination of french fries with shredded tender beef and cheese in a sandwich. And then top it off with a salty au jus. Heaven! The grilled cheese sandwich was big, on Texas toast, about 1.5 inches thick and 4.25 inches long. If I could change anything about it, it would be to add a little bit more cheese. But it was still filling and the buttered toast was delicious. The soups were served with oyster crackers. I could eat the chicken and pastry soup all day long. It hit the spot on the coldest day of the week. The chili was like any typical chili. The corn chowder was creamy and sweet from the corn. Our server was nice and checked on us throughout the meal. High chairs and kids menu are available. There is parking right in front of the restaurant. Parking rules are always changing, but currently for December 2023, it's free parking 5 PM and after.

My combo meal and my friends fried scrimp meal
Cheyenne D.

Food was delicious! We come here every time we come to the Carolina beach. Always wonderful and friendly service. We love the old diner feel and the vibe is always great!

Megan M.

I come to Pops Diner every time I'm in Carolina Beach. The service is always friendly and accommodating even when they are super busy. The food is good every time I go. We got the Philly and the pork and hush puppies, so good.

This place is super cute and fun! Good music, good ambiance, clean. The servers were nice and tended us effectively. The food was good and not overpriced! I got the triple decker club and it came with two sandwiches with three layer bread and all the meats and veggies listed on it. A good amount of good food for a good price. Good frickles, pebble ice, my partner got a fry dip and it was good.

Fried Okra
Arthur R.

This is our first night here at the beach, Our great find is POP's Diner. Driving we had to maneuver to get in here buts worth the twisting and turning. The Diners parking is small, if you are not looking carefully you could pass it. Once inside you are graciously greeted and seated. The diner reminds me of the 50's but the food is definitely up to date, I love their Arnold Palmer Iced teas. This is a great excursion from the hot heat and 90° weather.

See all

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Dymond G.
18
107
35

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jenifer S.
90
143
34

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Food was awful for the price. Service wasn't too bad but the food was terrible. It had a diner feel but fries smelled and tasted weird.

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jeff B.
41
85
10

2 years ago

Got a club sandwich and it was huge and delicious. Close to Marriott CB and a wide variety on the menu including desserts.

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Mary C.
84
31
67

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Kayla N.
166
16
4

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Eva K.
220
16
2

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of B I.
6
335
39

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Kim G.
73
26
0

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0
Photo of Tom D.
1459
1439
505

7 years ago

Helpful 2
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

7 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 2
Oh no 0
Photo of Neha R.
30
12
8

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Great little place! Burgers were very good, wait staff was awesome and the 50's theme is great!

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

6 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

4 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 1
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

3 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

5 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Sue M.
25
19
0

4 years ago

Helpful 1
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0
Photo of Jeff O.
144
304
1282

7 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

2 years ago

Helpful 0
Thanks 0
Love this 0
Oh no 0

Page 2 of 8

Ask the Community - Pop's Diner

You might also consider

Verify this business for free

People searched for American 1,143 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

Verify this business

Kate's Pancake House - egg sandwich and potatoes

Kate's Pancake House

4.1(645 reviews)
0.1 mi
•$$

If you're looking for a true mom & pop experience, like your grandparents just made you the best…read morebreakfast ever and nostalgic flavors from the south, this is for you. I arrived when they had just opened the doors at 0630 and everyone was so kind. I got the hurricane omelet, home fries, French toast, and a side of bacon. This has been my favorite breakfast I've found in years. They have plenty condiments, free parking, and fair prices. My food came out fast and my waitress (Kerri?) was attentive, informative, & so sweet. The entire experience felt like home and I will definitely be returning!

I only got pancakes, so I can't speak to the other menu items. But the restaurant has pancake in…read morethe name so it seemed like a must. The sweet potato pancakes were insane. Perhaps some of the best pancakes I've ever had. They had nuts in them and were perfectly spiced. 10/10. Red velvet was good, the cream cheese icing was quite tasty but they weren't anything too special. And the apple pancake was my least favorite; the apple filling on top tasted like it came from a can. Super sweet and didn't taste fresh. But the pancake itself was still good. This place does not take reservations and I was told the line goes out the door in the summer. There was a large line even while we were there in the off season during a storm. So if you want to eat here on a weekend, or the weather is nice, proceed with caution and be prepared to wait (standing outside--there is no seating while you wait).

Photos
Kate's Pancake House - Need cream?

Need cream?

Kate's Pancake House
Kate's Pancake House - Bibles on each table

See all

Bibles on each table

Ocean View Restaurant - Green eggs & ham

Ocean View Restaurant

4.4(90 reviews)
2.6 mi

FANTASTIC! We had a group of nine, which was a little…read moreawkward as the space is a bit intimate for a large group. Fortunately, it was the Sunday after Thanksgiving, and we arrived comfortably after Beach Church. My son said the fried chicken was the "best he'd ever had," and he's had a lot. He wanted french toast and was going to have a side of chicken until his wife ordered chicken & waffles, which claimed two chicken breasts. Those *two* seemed to be the size of a whole chicken or more and there was plenty to share and take home. Another order of the blueberry pancakes was only half eaten. The service was fantastic, speedy and friendly, with plenty of drink refills and extras. Later in the breakfast shift, the very friendly owner came out and socialized a bit. He said the secret to his fried chicken recipe came from his great aunt, but it was imperative to use fresh, never frozen chicken. Our combined families usually spend a summer week at a beach location farther south, but it will be tough to pass up OVKB22 the next time we are near Southport or Wilmington. The menu is so enticing, we need to try more items.

We came here at the end of March on a Saturday morning and the place was very busy, but we were…read moreseated right away. Server was very attentive and friendly. I ordered a veggie omelette and the portion was really good. It was full of spinach, tomatoes, and mushrooms. My husband had the chicken and waffles and had to take some home with him because the portion was so good. The chicken was crispy on the outside. Unfortunately, it did not have an ocean view, but you are in walking steps to the ocean, so during peak season expect to pay over six dollars an hour for parking.

Photos
Ocean View Restaurant
Ocean View Restaurant - Kure Benedict

Kure Benedict

Ocean View Restaurant

See all

Granny's Country Kitchen - Collard roll

Granny's Country Kitchen

3.8(204 reviews)
1.0 mi
•$

If you're looking for a true taste of Southern comfort food in Carolina Beach, Granny's Country…read moreKitchen is an absolute must-visit. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with that warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels more like Sunday breakfast at a family member's house than a restaurant. The staff is genuinely friendly, attentive, and keeps everything running smoothly even when the place is packed. The food is exactly what you hope for from a classic country kitchen -- hearty portions, homemade flavors, and dishes that keep you thinking about them long after the meal. Their famous fried green tomatoes absolutely live up to the hype, and the breakfast menu is outstanding with fluffy pancakes, biscuits and gravy, omelets, and creative favorites like the French Toast Club. Everything tastes fresh, comforting, and made with care. What really makes this spot special is how authentic it feels. It's casual, cozy, affordable, and full of local charm -- the kind of place where both tourists and locals happily wait for a table because they know the meal is worth it. Whether you're stopping in for breakfast before the beach or grabbing a relaxing lunch, Granny's delivers the kind of home-cooked experience that's getting harder to find these days.

Best breakfast in town!!! The staff is super friendly and helpful. The service was prompt. Hubby…read moreopted for corned beef hash and was not disappointed. Serving size was more than adequate. Best part, the homemade biscuits!!! Fluffy, flaky and sooooo yummy. We don't do breakfast often, but will definitely come back here!!!

Photos
Granny's Country Kitchen - Inside restaurant

Inside restaurant

Granny's Country Kitchen - Pancakes, grits, eggs and bacon

Pancakes, grits, eggs and bacon

Granny's Country Kitchen - Outside seating, dog friendly

See all

Outside seating, dog friendly

Soulflavor - Daily Specials are incredible, this is Blackened Shrimp Wedge Salad.

Soulflavor

4.6(233 reviews)
0.4 mi
•$$

Soul Flavor never disappoints!!! All four of us were extremely pleased and happy with what we…read moreordered! it was this Saturday of Memorial Day weekend so we were worried about getting in and how busy it might be in getting served! Our service was quick and efficient! We snuck in right before the rush around 5:45 PM our server Kyra was wonderful! Her timing was excellent and her suggestions were spot on! She was friendly, efficient, and just added to the great experience that all four of us had! My husband and I shared the mahi special and something called Crete Beets ( spelled on the menu beats); both were absolutely delicious! The mahi was prepared perfectly and had a nice light creole sauce which they put on the side for dipping and the crab mac & cheese was delightful with asparagus that was cooked on point; not overdone and not underdone which I know in restaurants is sometimes difficult to do. The crete "beats" was more or less a charcuterie board of roasted purple and gold beats with the most delicious whipped dip and perfectly seasoned and baked pita some of the best I've ever had with olives and cucumbers, and pickled red onions! I can't really describe the dip and apparently it's top-secret because I asked for the recipe! Our friends ordered the beet salad with extra beets; shrimp Tapatio and a bowl of the soup of the day. All were delicous and there was not a crumb or a drop left on their plates while my husband and I were still eating ours! The soup of the day was a potato jalapeño cheddar and it did not disappoint! this seriously is one of the few consistent restaurants on the island! I'm still dreaming about my food this morning!

Soul Flavor in Carolina Beach has become one of our favorite places, and tonight reminded us why…read more The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else around--guitars on the walls, old albums, photos of singers, and that easy soul-music vibe that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile. It feels relaxed, welcoming, and full of appreciation for the music and history. Soul music belongs to everybody who loves it, whether it's classic soul, Motown, or even a little blue-eyed soul mixed in. This place feels like it's celebrating that tradition, not exploiting it. Natalie took great care of us and gave us the kind of service that makes you feel right at home. I had the chicken and noodles, which were rich, comforting, and the sort of dish that would make your grandmother nod in approval. Mimi had the Tropical Tikia Marsala with scallops, shrimp, mahi filet, mango, pineapple, coconut rice, and it was outstanding--sweet, savory, and just different enough to make you wonder why more places don't cook like this. We finished by sharing the warm toffee pecan bread pudding, and if you leave without trying it, well, that's like walking out of church before the choir sings. Great food, great atmosphere, and great service. Soul Flavor is a Carolina Beach gem, and we'll definitely be back.

Photos
Soulflavor
Soulflavor - NC Fish & Chips

NC Fish & Chips

Soulflavor - Chardonnay

See all

Chardonnay

Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar - Shrimp Calabash and Fish Tacos

Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar

3.7(485 reviews)
0.9 mi
•$$

If you're looking for one of those places where everything just lines up--the weather, the food,…read morethe mood--this is it. Out on the pier at Tiki Bar & Ocean Grill, you've got a front-row seat to the Atlantic, and on a day like today, it doesn't get much better. Blue sky, sun hitting the water just right, and a breeze that reminds you why people have been coming to the coast long before fancy resorts showed up. Food Simple answer: they've got it dialed in. Fresh, well-prepared, and exactly what you want at the beach. No overthinking it--just good coastal food done right. That's how it's supposed to be. Service Friendly, easygoing, and attentive without hovering. The kind of service that makes you feel welcome but doesn't interrupt your view--or your drink. Atmosphere This is where they really win. Sitting out over the water with string lights overhead and waves rolling in? That's hard to beat anywhere. Now, yes--the beach itself has those big metal pipes running through for replenishment. Not exactly postcard material. But here's the truth: once you're up on that pier, looking out over the ocean, it barely matters. The view still does what it's supposed to do--makes you slow down and stay a while. Final Take Great food, solid service, and a view that carries the whole experience. Even with the beach work going on, this place delivers what a coastal spot should: good eats, cold drinks, and a reason to sit a little longer than you planned. If the weather's right, don't overthink it--grab a seat, order something simple, and enjoy it the way folks have been doing for generations.

My go to place after roasting in the sun at CB. Walk in the sand to a barstool overlooking the…read morewaves and coastline at Carolina Beach. Lots of great drink and food options. Shrimp are fresh and drinks are refreshing. Grab some merch from inside and support local.

Photos
Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar
Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar - Bagel with cream cheese, side of fruit, coffee

Bagel with cream cheese, side of fruit, coffee

Ocean Grill and Tiki Bar - Tiki time

See all

Tiki time

Pop's Diner - tradamerican - Updated May 2026

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...