Little Bird restaurant and bar planned next to Seabird in Wilmington

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Wilmington chef Dean Neff plans to open a new restaurant and bar next to Seabird in downtown Wilmington in winter 2027.

The new concept, called Little Bird, will be located at 9 S. Front St. and is expected to add about 2,200 square feet of dining and event space next to Seabird.

According to the announcement, the project will include a dining room and a separate 25-seat bar room, with seating for an additional 55 to 60 guests overall.

Little Bird is also expected to give Seabird more room for private events. Combined, the two spaces could accommodate gatherings of up to about 150 people.

The project will involve renovation of a neighboring historic building, including restoration of a previously obscured facade.

Neff said Little Bird will build on Seabird’s existing focus on seafood while also offering additional programming and guest chef collaborations.

“We’re grateful to have this opportunity, to build on our work here at Seabird with sustainable seafood, and find new and meaningful ways to serve and engage with our team and guests,” Neff said in a statement. “We can’t wait to bring this historic space to life for the Wilmington community in the new year.”

Neff and his wife, Lydia Clopton, opened Seabird in 2021. Neff also took over Zora’s Seafood Market & Kitchen in 2024.

Little Bird is expected to open in winter 2027.