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Best Restaurants in Apex, NC
Are you looking for a great place to eat in Apex, NC? Discover these 15 great restaurants in Apex!
Apex has evolved from a quiet railroad town into one of the Triangle's most desirable communities, and its restaurant scene has blossomed alongside its growth.
As one of the best places to live in North Carolina, many people are moving to Apex for its beautiful real estate, laid-back way of life, and popular amenities.
While visiting, you will undoubtedly feel the small-town charm; however, the proximity to Raleigh and Research Triangle Park allows for countless growth opportunities.
Whether you're a longtime resident or considering making Apex your new home, these 15 restaurants showcase why this charming town has become a culinary destination in its own right.
Apex is great for many reasons, including the abundance of fantastic restaurants that source fresh ingredients from local farmer's markets.
From family-owned gems tucked into strip malls to upscale establishments in the historic downtown, here's your insider's guide to Apex's best dining experiences.
Visit these 15 top-rated restaurants in Apex, NC
1. The Provincial
Address: 119 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: American
The Provincial is the perfect restaurant for all occasions. This seasonal, full-service restaurant uses local ingredients to create delicious farm-to-fork meals.
Located on Main Street in downtown Apex, The Provincial's convenient location provides indoor and outdoor seating, great food, and professional service.
Serving New American cuisine, some menu highlights include their grilled Norwegian Salmon and grilled Hanger Angus steak. The Provincial is a must-try if you are moving to Apex, but it's usually busy, so make reservations if you plan to dine here.
2. La Rancherita
Address: 102 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Mexican
Who doesn't love chips and salsa and a phenomenal margarita to accompany their meal? La Rancherita is one of the best Mexican restaurants if you're craving delicious Mexican food and various margarita flavors. The atmosphere here is incredible, with vibrant colors and a welcoming vibe.
Serving lunch and dinner, popular menu items include tacos, nachos, enchiladas, and fajitas. La Rancherita is only located in North Carolina, so it's a unique treasure for those looking for authentic Mexican food.
Salsa is made in-house daily, and the inviting atmosphere inside this cantina makes it an excellent spot for families to enjoy great food after walking and shopping on Main Street.
3. Salem Street Pub
Address: 113 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Bar
Salem Street Pub is a laid-back, family-friendly tavern with tasty food, great cocktails, and local craft beer. Family owned and operated, this Apex local favorite restaurant is perfect for dinner and drinks any day of the week.
Though Salem Street Pub does not take reservations, there are plenty of cute shops in downtown Apex to check out while waiting for a table. This local restaurant is always cozy and welcoming, specializing in burgers and moonshine cocktails.
4. Daniel's Restaurant and Catering
Address: 1430 W Williams St, Apex, NC 27523
Cuisine Type: Italian
Daniel's Restaurant and Catering has been open since 1996 and serves fresh pasta dishes, hand-stretched pizzas, and scratch-made desserts. If you've been looking for authentic Italian that will make you feel like you've traveled to Italy, Daniel's is the restaurant for you.
Offering weekly deals, private dining, and catering options, this restaurant is a favorite among customers who rave about the customer service, food quality, and exceptional pricing.
Reservations are highly reccommended, especially for large party sizes. When you are in the area, check out this Apex staple.
5. Vegan Community Kitchen
Address: 803 E Williams St, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Vegan
Have you been looking for a fully vegan restaurant? Then look no further than Vegan Community Kitchen, located in Apex. This 100% fully vegan restaurant has quickly become a fan favorite because it is truly one of a kind.
This casual restaurant serves a Mediterranean-inspired menu containing no animal products. All dishes are authentic and made from whole, local ingredients.
Vegan Community Kitchen focuses on making dishes that fuel and energize customers. Whether you are vegan or want to try something new, add this restaurant to your rotation.
6. Doherty's Irish Pub and Restaurant
Address: 5490 Apex Peakway, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Irish Pub
If you have reviewed our list of the best restaurants in Cary, NC, you will know that we have mentioned Doherty's Irish Pub before. They have locations in Cary and Apex, and both are highly rated. They serve traditional Irish food that will make you feel like you're enjoying your meal in Ireland.
Doherty's Irish Pub and Restaurant features a lunch and dinner menu that is perfect for a night out with friends or a family dinner. The menu offers a great variety of traditional Irish fare, including bangers and mash, fish and chips, and shepherd's pie.
With frequent live entertainment, a wide selection of beers, and tasty cocktails, it is no wonder that Doherty's is considered one of the best places to eat in Apex. Make sure to visit for their annual St. Patrick's Day celebration in March.
7. Johnny's Pizza
Address: 8759 Holly Springs Rd, Apex, NC 27539
Cuisine Type: Pizza
Everyone loves a good pizza night. Johnny's Pizza has been in the Apex area for a while and has become a local favorite. Johnny himself makes a point to interact with the community, so not only do they serve delicious pizza, but they also provide a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Johnny's Pizza offers indoor and outdoor seating, making it the perfect place to relax and catch a game with friends. It serves NY-style pizza, gourmet pizzas, chicken wings, Italian dinners, sandwiches, and subs. Try it out whenever you're in the mood for a quick bite to eat.
8. Osteria G
Address: 5160 Sunset Lake Rd #101, Apex, NC 27539
Cuisine Type: Italian
Osteria G is an authentic Italian restaurant that draws menu inspiration straight from Italy. The name Osteria refers to a place serving wine and simple food, which they do well.
Offering housemade pasta and a vast selection of wines, Italian spirits, and beers from local breweries, the restaurant's seasonal menu always features something new.
This family-owned and operated restaurant is a favorite among Apex and Holly Springs residents. Whether craving pasta or celebrating a special occasion, reservations can be made online.
9. Sushi Iwa
Address: 2026 Creekside Landing Dr, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Sushi
We believe Sushi Iwa has some of the best sushi in the Apex area. Located in the Beaver Creek Crossing shopping center, Sushi Iwa is the perfect place to grab a delicious meal after a fun shopping day.
This casual sushi place features a big menu with classic Asian dishes, including pad thai and pho. Customers speak highly of the customer service, buy-one-get-one-free deals, variety of meal options, and affordable prices.
10. JD's Tavern
Address: 800 W Williams St Suite #100, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Bar and Grill
JD's Tavern is a must-visit Apex pub with a chill and welcoming atmosphere. With good food, drinks, and people, JD's Tavern has become a local neighborhood favorite. This is also the perfect restaurant to catch a game with friends.
They serve delicious traditional American "sports bar" food. Their menu options of nachos, burgers, and wings will have you regularly returning for more. To top it off, they host fun weekly events like music bingo, trivia night, and karaoke night.
11. Yamato Steak, Seafood, and Sushi Bar
Address: 700 E Williams St, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Japanese
If you're craving authentic Japanese cuisine without the hassle of traveling, Yamato Steak, Seafood, and Sushi Bar is the place to be. Their goal is to provide customers with delicious meals made with quality ingredients.
Their made-to-order Japanese dishes include yummy appetizers, hibachi, sashimi, sushi rolls, and bento boxes. Also offering vegetarian options and a kid's menu, this restaurant is excellent for families and people looking to try something new.
The head chef has worked in the industry since he turned 16 and is dedicated to providing dishes made with quality ingredients and sold at fair prices.
12. TapStation
Address: 320 S Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Brewpub
TapStation is a lively and fun place to hang out, eat good food, and enjoy craft beer and cocktails. Located in downtown Apex in a converted service station, TapStation is a full-service restaurant with an on-site brewery and is best known for its menu variety.
Specializing in smash burgers, hot dogs, tater tots, and other popular bar food, the restaurant is popular with customers who love to eat outside at its many picnic tables when the weather is nice. With a small playground within viewing distance of the outside dining area, TapStation is perfect for families with kids.
13. Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken
Address: 1107 Pine Plaza Dr, Apex, NC 27523
Cuisine Type: Peruvian
Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken has many locations throughout the area, including Apex. This casual chain restaurant is best known for its Peruvian rotisserie chicken and delicious sides, including rice and beans, yuca fries, green beans, and plantains.
14. Basil 'n Spice
Address: 8753 Holly Springs Rd, Apex, NC 27529
Cuisine Type: Indian, Thai, and Chinese
Basil 'n Spice is a new restaurant in the Apex area that blends Indian, Thai, and Chinese flavors. Receiving plenty of good reviews, every dish on the menu is made fresh to order and crafted with authentic ingredients. From fragrant curries to handmade dumplings, visit Basil 'n Spice for your next dining experience.
15. Anna's Pizzeria
Address: 100 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
Cuisine Type: Pizza
Are you craving New York-style pizza and other Italian favorites? Then, make sure to visit Anna's Pizzeria in Downtown Apex. This busy, family-friendly atmosphere provides a positive and fun dining experience and is a must-visit any day of the week.
Methodology
Factors such as local experience, menu items, awards, and reviews and ratings, were considered when determining the best restaurants in Apex, NC.
FAQs
What is Apex, NC, famous for?
Apex, North Carolina is a great place to live that is most famous for its family-friendly atmosphere and historic downtown area.
Why is Apex, NC, called the Peak of Good Living?
Located along the highest point of the Chatham Railroad, Apex is often called the "Peak of Good Living" due to its reputation for offering a high-quality of life and small-town charm.
What is the average household income in Apex, NC?
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income in Apex, NC is $138,442 as of May 2025.
Our Final Thoughts on the Restaurants in Apex, NC
Apex, North Carolina, is lovely for so many reasons and the restaurant scene only makes it better. No matter your craving, a drive around town or a quick Google search is all it takes to satisfy whatever passion you may have.
For those considering relocating to a neighborhood in Apex, the diverse and growing restaurant scene reflects the community's character. These restaurants serve as community gathering places where neighbors become friends, and many actively support local schools and charitable causes.
Whether you're looking for a quick lunch between house hunting appointments or planning to celebrate closing on your new Apex home, these restaurants showcase why this community has become one of the Triangle's most desirable places to live.
If you are ready to find your dream home in Apex, contact the experts at Raleigh Realty. We are here to help and answer any questions.
