Lumberton locals know there’s something special simmering in The Pines neighborhood. Tucked just north of downtown Lumberton and flanked by tall pines and quiet streets, The Pines has quietly earned its reputation as a rising food destination where homestyle classics collide with bold, creative flavors. Whether you’re a weekend brunch fan, a lover of smoky barbecue, or an explorer hunting down tucked-away taco stands, The Pines’ food scene deserves a spot on every local’s must-taste list.
Where Good Mornings Begin: Breakfast Spots and Cafés
Nothing starts the day like a great southern breakfast, and The Pines delivers in spades.
Sunrise Café
Nestled at the intersection of Pine Cone Road and Meadowbrook Lane, Sunrise Café is a bustling spot by 8:00 AM. The draw? Generous portions of fluffy pancakes, sausage gravy, and buttermilk biscuits at wallet-friendly prices (most breakfast plates are under $10). Their sweet potato hash is a can’t-miss specialty you won’t find elsewhere in town.
Pines Perk
Just a short stroll away on Willow Street, Pines Perk is a cozy, locally-owned coffee shop that doubles as a bakery. Here, fresh-baked cinnamon rolls and scones disappear before noon, and espresso drinks are made with locally roasted beans. Don’t leave without sampling their rich pecan sticky buns—a local secret that fuels many a workday.
Lunchtime Favorites: Diners, Food Trucks, and Quick Eats
From classic diners to inventive food trucks, lunch in The Pines offers both speed and flavor.
The Pines Grill
This old-school diner on Midland Drive has been an institution for decades. Favorited by local families and business folks alike, The Pines Grill churns out hand-patted burgers, crispy crinkle-cut fries, and their beloved fried chicken sandwich. With most meals under $12, the value and taste keep regulars loyal. Try their “Red Slaw Dog”—a Lumberton tradition featuring bright, tangy slaw atop a spicy hotdog.
Tortas & Tacos El Molino
For those craving bold flavors on the go, look for El Molino food truck near the corner of Oak and Cedar Streets. Their carne asada tortas, barbacoa tacos, and homemade agua frescas showcase authentic Mexican street food in all its glory. Weekday lunchtime lines say it all: locals love the generous portions, fresh tortillas, and unbeatable prices (tacos start at just $3 each).
Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Eats
Every food neighborhood guards a few secrets. In The Pines, these lesser-known spots punch high above their weight.
Miss Josie’s Pie Pantry
Tucked along a side street just off Forrest Avenue, Miss Josie’s Pie Pantry is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it bakery run out of a converted 1920s home. Locals drive miles for the flaky fruit pies (the peach and pecan are standouts), creamy banana pudding, and seasonal cobblers. The prices are delightfully old-fashioned: a slice sets you back $4, and the warm welcome is included free.
Pho & More
On Pinewood Drive, this family-run Vietnamese spot is beloved for its aromatic pho and spring rolls. It’s a compact, no-frills place where the emphasis is on slow-simmered broths, fresh herbs, and generous bowls. The vegetarian pho is a rare Lumberton find, and prices rarely top $15. Don’t skip their lemongrass chicken for a uniquely flavorful treat.
Dinner Destinations: Southern Classics & Global Fare
When evening falls, The Pines morphs into a hotspot for comforting Southern staples and adventurous eats.
Big Pine Smokehouse
You’ll smell the hickory smoke before you spot the sign on Cross Street. Big Pine Smokehouse is serious about barbecue, serving tender pulled pork, smoky ribs, and house-made sides like tangy collard greens and sweet cornbread. Most plates fall between $12 and $20. Locals insist on the brisket—slow-cooked for hours, melting in your mouth.
Casa Verde
Adding some international flair, Casa Verde on Maple Lane serves up flavorful Dominican and Puerto Rican dishes. The mofongo with garlicky shrimp and ropa vieja are must-tries. It’s a festive spot, with colorful murals and live salsa DJs on weekends. Prices are reasonable (entrees run $13 to $18), and portions are large enough for leftovers.
Sweet Finishes & Sips: Treat Yourself
No food tour is complete without something sweet—and maybe a nightcap.
Hattie Mae’s Ice Cream Shop
A brightly painted building on Walnut and Pine Streets, Hattie Mae’s is famous for homemade ice cream in flavors like Banana Pudding, Toasted Coconut, and Candy Bar Crunch. Waffle cones are made fresh daily, and servings are generous (single scoop $3.50, double $5). Fridays mean “Milkshake Madness,” with wild weekly flavors.
The Pines Bottle Room
Wrap up your evening at The Pines Bottle Room, a laid-back taproom and bottle shop near the heart of the neighborhood. With a rotating lineup of regional craft beers, the Bottle Room invites locals and visitors alike to relax, play trivia, and try the popular “Southern Shandy”—a blend of local pale ale and house lemonade.
A Neighborhood with Heart—and Full Plates
From beloved landmarks to new foodie favorites, The Pines stands out as one of Lumberton’s most inviting food neighborhoods. Its walkable streets, community-minded businesses, and mix of hidden gems and lively mainstays offer something for every taste and budget. Next time you’re hungry, skip the interstate chains. Drift into The Pines and let your senses— and your appetite—lead the way.
Which spot will be your new favorite?