Best Restaurants in Chapel Hill, NC

Warning: You might not want to read this on an empty stomach!

Even though people are mainly drawn to the Chapel Hill area to attend or visit the University of North Carolina, the food here is like no other. This town has everything between the highly-ranked University, safe neighborhoods, excellent food options, world-class hospitals, and medical care. For those new here, we are a local real estate company that also likes to provide you with helpful information on your new town.

We set out to find the best restaurants in Chapel Hill, so continue reading if you're moving to Chapel Hill and are interested in the 15 we deem to be the best!

In this list, we have included restaurants that are acceptable for all occasions. Whether you want to catch the game, enjoy a girl's night out, have dinner with your family, or take someone on an unforgettable date, Chapel Hill has a restaurant for all your possible needs. So without further ado, let's get to the good stuff!

Merritt's Grill

Known for its world-famous BLT, Merritt's Grill is a Chapel Hill favorite. There's not much better than sitting outside of Merritt's on a sunny afternoon with some friends, an ice-cold coca-cola, and a freshly made BLT. It's a classic Chapel Hill experience, and if you've never been -- this is your sign to go.

"The love sandwich" is Merritt's perfected formula of bacon, crispy lettuce, juicy tomatoes, salt, pepper, and mayo piled high between two slices of sourdough. Sure, it's simple... but we can almost guarantee that you couldn't make one that tastes quite like it.

If bacon isn't your thing, don't worry, the grill also offers a full menu of vegetarian options, egg salad, burgers, and BBQ. Gather a group of friends or your family and head to Merritt's Grill for a life-changing BLT (or menu item of choice). Sometimes simple isn't easy, and that's why Merritt's Grill is on our list of Chapel Hill's best restaurants.

Located at 1009 S Columbia St

Sup Dogs

The next restaurant on our list is the famous prime destination for college students. Students and families of all ages gather at Sup Dogs to watch sports games, grab a late-night bite, enjoy one of their delicious Sup Crushes, and socialize! Sup Dogs offers traditional American food, specifically known for its wide range of specialty hotdogs. Pair anything on the menu with their phenomenal Sup Sause; every bite is perfect. The restaurant is fully decked out in all things UNC and anti-Duke/NC State.

Sup Dogs is best for those days when all you want to do is gather with friends and enjoy a good hotdog, french fries, and a beer. The prices are reasonable, the food is excellent, and the atmosphere is like no other! Even if you're not a die-hard Tar Heel fan, it is hard not to feel the school spirit oozing out of the walls and the crowd that's gathered.

Located at 107 E Franklin St

TRU

Some nights all you need is a night out with your girls, and Chapel Hill has the perfect spot for you! TRU is a hidden gem tucked away off Franklin Street. The ambiance in this restaurant is outstanding, and the food matches the atmosphere. With build-your-own sandwiches, wraps, and salads, TRU's menu is flexible to your craving. It is the perfect place to split a bottle of wine with your girls and enjoy great food and company.

TRU is especially popular with UNC students for a midweek break or a Friday night treat. Five-dollar margaritas? Say no more. Grab your girlfriends and head to TRU for an unforgettable night with your best girls.

Located at 114 Henderson St

Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen

Anyone who often enjoys a wild Saturday night out knows how important it is to have a go-to spot for Sunday recovery. Chapel Hill's best solution for a rough Sunday morning is enjoying a nice biscuit at Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen. You might be wondering what makes Sunrise the prime spot for Sunday recovery. Two things: Drive-thru only and buttery, fluffy biscuits. Need we say more?

Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen is a no-frills, simple, and reliable Chapel Hill breakfast spot, and the line of cars waiting to order on the weekends proves it. Their giant better biscuits melt in your mouth and fix what aliments you might have at the time. You can order the "Bad Grampa" chicken biscuit, which comes loaded with chicken, bacon, egg, and cheese, or you can keep it simple with a classic sausage biscuit. Either way, a Sunday recovery that includes a Sunrise Biscuit is like no other.

Located at 1305 E Franklin St

411 West

Are you looking to surprise your significant other with a fantastic date night? 411 West is the best place for a romantic dinner. 411 West is an Italian restaurant located at, you guessed it, 411 West Franklin Street. The classy, dimly lit, and quiet atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a date night. This restaurant specializes in seasonally fresh pasta and wood-fired pizza, with the menu reflecting the influence of Mediterranean and Italian flavors.

Even though 411 West isn't as popular among college students, it's refreshing to have a non-college student-focused dining experience in the middle of a college town. 411 West is perfect for couples and families looking for a slower-paced, sit-down meal in a calm environment.

Located at 411 West Franklin St

Stoney River Steak House and Grill

Everyone has their go-to restaurant for special events, work gatherings, or a fancy date night. In Chapel Hill, Stoney River Steak House and Grill is one of the prime locations for any occasion that needs celebrating. This restaurant's comfortable atmosphere will leave you relaxed and full of delicious food. Whether you sit at the bar or dine in the main area, you are guaranteed a good time with friends or family at Stoney River.

Their menu includes hand-cut steaks, fresh seafood, signature salads, and house specialties. They provide menu options that everyone can enjoy. While you won't experience a wild night out here, you will momentarily escape the college town lifestyle and enjoy a lovely quiet evening.

Located at 201 S Estes Dr

Talullas

Serving Authentic Turkish Cuisine, Talullas has become a fan favorite and late-night destination spot in Chapel Hill. As soon as you walk through the front doors, you will be transported to Turkey, and you won't regret it. The decor and atmosphere are incredible. From Turkish rug-lined walls to ceilings covered in unique lighting pieces, there's no doubt your eyes will be wondering.

The menu is just as great as the decor. They take pride in recreating authentic Turkish recipes that have been around for five hundred-plus years. Their menu is a culinary journey of centuries-old Ottoman recipes dating back to the 15th century. Whether enjoying the food at Talullas or taking in the environment, you're bound to have a good time.

Located at 456 W Franklin St

Market and Moss

Are you looking for another hidden gem in Chapel Hill? Market and Moss is the place for you. You are immediately welcomed by their friendly staff, modern ambiance, and relaxing vibe. They won the 2021 Best New Restaurant in Chapel Hill and 2022 Six Best of Chapel Hill Award.

The menu at Market and Moss changes daily, so there's always something new for you to try. They offer dinner consisting of either small or large portions, Friday lunch, Sunday brunch, and wine and cocktails. Thought of as a place to refresh and connect, Market and Moss is a local hidden gem in the southern village that you need to try!

Located at 700 Market St

IL PALIO Restaurant

Although we've already given you an excellent recommendation for Italian cuisine in Chapel Hill, we could not miss the opportunity to rave about IL PALIO. Consistently awarded four diamonds by AAA, IL PALIO uses the best local and Italian ingredients to curate the most perfect, generously portioned meal. This is another great spot in Chapel Hill where you can enjoy a lovely evening of delicious flavors with your family or enjoy an afternoon cocktail on the patio.

The menu at IL PALIO is priced on the higher end, but the quality of the food you receive makes up for it! Who doesn't love a hefty plate of your favorite Italian dish? With their fantastic staff, people who dine here leave full, happy, and relaxed. Next time you're in Chapel Hill, stop at IL PALIO so you can experience firsthand how amazing it is!

Located at 1505 E Franklin St

Hawthorne & Wood

Feeling fancy, laid-back, or anywhere in between? Hawthorne & Wood is a great restaurant destination for all moods and occasions. Their indoor-outdoor design will instantly make Hawthorne & Wood a top spot for you to enjoy a patio cocktail, date night dinner, or family night out.

Chef and Owner Brandon Sharp has spent roughly 20 years cooking to curate the delicious menu you will experience at Hawthorne & Wood. You can expect to order anything from a cheese board to soup and salad to their amazing short ribs when dining for dinner. While the food is excellent, they also offer a full bar with an impressive wine list and North Carolina beers. Friends and family from all over will enjoy their experience if you take them to Hawthorne & Wood.

Located at 3140 Environ Way

Elements

Have you been searching for a restaurant where you can enjoy flavors worldwide? Elements is simply the best spot for that! Elements has won countless awards, including the Best of Chapel Hill for multiple years, many OpenTable Diner's choice awards, and the wine spectator awards of excellence.

Elements live by George Bernard's words, "There is no love sincere than the love of food," and they do a great job proving that. They offer the perfect fine dining experience serving contemporary new American cuisine. Elements combine modern Asian and European cooking techniques to ensure you have the exquisite experience of local and sustainable ingredients. And what goes better with flavorful food than a delicious glass of wine or cocktail? Grab a signature cocktail or a glass of wine from their award-winning wine list, and you're guaranteed to have the perfect meal.

Located at 2110 Environ Way

Kipos Greek Taverna

Finding a delicious and authentic Greek restaurant can prove to be a difficult task. But Kipos Greek Taverna in Chapel Hill has exceeded expectations. When you visit Kipos, you can expect a great experience. Whether you're going for lunch, dinner, brunch, or dessert or need to feed many guests, Kipos ensures that your food is made with love and satisfies all your cravings.

People who have eaten at Kipos constantly rave about the fantastic staff and exceptional food quality. Although it can be pricier, this is a great restaurant to bring your friends and family. Their dinner menu consists of multiple options, so you can be sure everyone will enjoy it and want to keep coming back for more! If you love Greek food, Kipos should be on your list of restaurants to try if you find yourself in the area.

Located at 1800 E Franklin St

Top of the Hill Restaurant and Brewery

Head to this contemporary late-night brewery for tasty housemade brews, friendly service, and American fare. The Top of the Hill Restaurant and Brewery is also known for having patio seating; this is a fantastic destination for grabbing a drink after work with friends or sharing a good meal and conversation with the family.

Located at 100 E Franklin St #300

Bin 54 Steak and Cellar

Do you want to dine at one of the best steakhouses in town? Then, head to Bin 54 Steak and Cellar for premium steaks and seafood. As an annual Wine Spectator Award Winner recipient in the Chapel Hill area, Bin 54 is known for using only the highest quality ingredients and sourcing locally when possible.

Located at 1201-M, Raleigh Road in the Glen Lennox Shopping Center

Hawkers Asian Street Food

Bringing the streets of Asia to Tarheel country, Hawkers Asian Street Food has been serving noodles, fried rice, and dumplings since its opening in 2011. Adding this favorite local restaurant to your food bucket list offers a vibrant culture, diverse energy, and a colorful atmosphere.

Located at 201 S Estes Dr #400A

Our Final Thoughts On The Restaurants In Chapel Hill

Food might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Chapel Hill, but it should be a close second! Whether you're in the mood for American, Greek, Italian, or Asian, Chapel Hill has a restaurant for any craving you might be having.

If you found this list to be helpful, we encourage you to try some of the restaurants and let us know what you think! If you're not local but ready to make a move, we'd also be happy to answer any of your real estate questions. Check out our list of available homes in Chapel Hill to get started.

We genuinely hope you enjoyed this list and found a new favorite restaurant! Contact us today to leave us any thoughts or suggestions.