JM’s On The Water:
Fresh Seafood and Waterfront Dining in Surf City, NC
At the heart of Surf City’s dining scene is JM’s On The Water, a restaurant that lives up to its name by offering guests fresh seafood and a relaxed atmosphere right on the water. Located at 602-B Roland Avenue, this coastal favorite combines the flavors of North Carolina seafood with stunning Intracoastal Waterway views, making it one of the most memorable dining spots on Topsail Island.
A Menu Built Around Freshness
JM’s On The Water is best known for its seafood, with dishes that highlight the freshness and richness of the coast. Their menu features:
- Famous Crab Dip – creamy, savory, and a guest favorite starter.
- Shrimp Poppers – crispy, seasoned bites that are perfect for sharing.
- Stuffed Flounder – fresh local fish filled with crab stuffing and topped with sauce.
- Crab Cakes – prepared with lump crab meat, a dish guests consistently rave about.
- Bang Bang Shrimp – lightly fried shrimp tossed in a zesty sauce.
- Grilled Salmon – cooked to perfection with house sides.
- Baja Shrimp Tacos – vibrant, flavorful, and a top choice for taco lovers.
For non-seafood diners, JM’s also offers hand-cut steaks, burgers, salads, and kid-friendly meals. A full-service bar rounds out the experience, with cocktails, wine, and cold beer—ideal for sipping on the deck at sunset.
Dining on the Water
The restaurant’s biggest draw—besides the food—is its location. With indoor dining and a spacious deck overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, JM’s On The Water gives guests the chance to dine while watching boats pass by and the sun sink over the marshes. For boaters, there’s even a dock for direct water access.
The vibe is coastal casual: laid-back but polished, perfect for a date night, family dinner, or simply unwinding with friends.
What Guests Are Saying
JM’s On The Water has earned a strong reputation online, with an impressive 4.4-star rating on Google from more than 1,300 reviews. Guests frequently praise the freshness of the food, generous portions, and excellent service.
Here’s what some customers had to say:
“The crab dip was incredible and easily the best I’ve ever had. Everything tasted so fresh and the view was beautiful.”
“We had the stuffed flounder and the shrimp tacos, both were delicious. Our server was attentive and friendly. JM’s is a must when you’re in Surf City.”
“Perfect atmosphere for dinner on the water. Great seafood, cold drinks, and sunset views—what more could you want?”
Why JM’s On The Water Stands Out
- Fresh, flavorful seafood prepared with care.
- Waterfront dining with one of the best views in Surf City.
- Full bar and creative cocktails to enjoy with your meal.
- Friendly service that makes every visit enjoyable.
- Dockside access for those arriving by boat.
Plan Your Visit
- Address: 602-B Roland Avenue, Surf City, NC 28445
- Hours: Open daily for lunch and dinner (check website for seasonal hours)
- Website: jmsonthewater.com
- Dining Options: Indoor and outdoor seating, takeout available
This article is part of A Complete Guide to Dining on Topsail Island, which provides an island-wide overview of restaurants, dining districts, cuisine types, and local food experiences.
Author’s Note
JM’s On The Water captures everything I love about coastal dining: fresh seafood, friendly service, and an unforgettable view. The crab dip and stuffed flounder are standouts, but honestly, everything I tried was delicious. Pair that with the setting sun over the water, and it’s easy to see why this restaurant has become such a Surf City favorite.
About the Author
Written by J.L. Wells, a longtime Topsail Island resident with firsthand experience exploring the island’s beaches, restaurants, local businesses, and coastal activities throughout the year. Drawing on lived local knowledge, J.L. Wells provides practical insight to help readers understand what Topsail Island offers visitors and residents alike.