Established in August 2010, Persimmons graces the shores of the Neuse River in New Bern, NC, as a locally-owned waterfront gem. Offering an elegant yet relaxed ambiance, this riverside restaurant presents three unique dining experiences: the inviting downstairs great room, the intimate upstairs private dining area, and the charming outdoor waterfront space. At Persimmons, we take pride in our modern cuisine crafted from locally-sourced ingredients by our acclaimed chef, ensuring a memorable culinary journey. Our commitment to excellence extends to the special events we host, providing unrivaled waterfront dining, delectable dishes, and genuinely warm service.

Sustainability lies at the heart of Persimmons, evident not only in our culinary choices but also in our eco-conscious infrastructure. Our heating and cooling rely on a high-efficiency geothermal system, while our energy-saving lighting fixtures illuminate the restaurant. Water conservation is a priority, with waterless urinals and low-flow bathroom fixtures, complemented by our robust recycling program. Furthermore, we've built our restaurant using recycled or reclaimed materials, including our tables and hostess stand, showcasing our dedication to responsible practices and fostering a positive impact on our surroundings.

The intriguing story behind our name, Persimmons, is a frequent point of curiosity among our patrons. When constructing our building, we dredged the nearby marina and unearthed several submerged logs, remnants of a 19th-century lumber mill and turpentine distillery that once occupied the site. Among these discoveries was a log from a persimmon tree, which was subsequently transformed by Bill Nelson of Precision Molding into the captivating hostess stand that now greets our guests. Persimmon trees, native to North America and Asia, are one of the few fruits indigenous to Eastern North Carolina. Their Roman moniker translates to "fruit of the Gods." In addition, we recovered a magnificent liquid amber log, also known as red gum, which Bill Nelson masterfully crafted into the stunning table tops that adorn our restaurant.