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Best Places to Eat in Raleigh
Are you searching for the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC? Here are some of the best places to eat in Raleigh!
Named one of the hottest food cities, Raleigh's dining scene has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a modest food landscape to a vibrant culinary destination that rivals much larger cities.
As the capital city grows and attracts new residents to the area for its affordable real estate, its restaurant offerings have expanded to include everything from refined fine dining establishments to innovative chef-driven concepts and authentic international cuisine.
Whether you're a new homeowner exploring your new hometown or a long-time resident looking to rediscover local gems, Raleigh's diverse restaurants offer something for every palate and occasion.
At Raleigh Realty, we've compiled this guide to 17 of Raleigh's most exceptional restaurants, showcasing the culinary excellence that makes our city such a desirable place to call home.
Check out these best restaurants in Raleigh
1. Brewery Bhavana - Downtown
Address: 218 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Cuisine Type: Stylish Chinese
Brewery Bhavana opened in 2017 and has since become one of the best restaurants in Raleigh. Located downtown on Blount Street, this restaurant features a unique menu of dim sum and Chinese small plates.
With an elegant, bright interior and a community living room, Brewery Bhavana is a unique concept that combines a brewery, dim sum restaurant, flower shop, and bookstore.
Due to its popularity, reservations are highly recommended. A new location will open in the Fenton Shopping Center in Cary in April.
2. Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern
Address: 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Cuisine Type: American
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern offers a dining experience that combines the atmosphere of Raleigh's historic Dodd-Hinsdale House with cuisine that is equally unique and delicious.
The restaurant is in the former house of Raleigh Mayor William H. Dodd. Built in 1879 and sold to John Hinsdale in 1890, Second Empire Restaurant has much history.
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern offers a varied menu, from classic seafood and steak to roasted duck and grilled Australian lamb racks. This Downtown Raleigh Restaurant has something for every person's appetite and flavors that will hit taste buds you never knew you had.
Are you celebrating a birthday, an anniversary, or a wedding? Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is an excellent venue for these events.
Second Empire is a fantastic option for a Downtown Raleigh dining experience. It is only a short drive from the NC State area. Second Empire is an excellent option if you're looking for a great restaurant in Raleigh.
3. Death and Taxes
Address: 105 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Cuisine Type: Fine Dining
Death & Taxes is an upscale restaurant by James Beard Award-winning chef Ashley Christensen. It opened in 2015 in a historic downtown building that once housed a bank and later a funeral home (hence the clever name).
In a renovated 1920s building, Death and Taxes is best known for its wood-fired cooking techniques, elegant atmosphere with an open kitchen, sophisticated cocktails, and delicious dishes made with locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
4. Taverna Agora
Address: 326 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603
Cuisine Type: Greek
Taverna Agora is an authentic Greek restaurant that has become a fixture in Raleigh's dining scene. Featuring a beautiful rooftop dining area that's especially popular in warmer months, this top-rated restaurant offers both lunch and dinner service.
Featuring a warm, Mediterranean-inspired ambiance, Taverna Agora is known for classics like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh seafood dishes. It even hosts special events and Greek wine dinners throughout the year.
5. Angus Barn
Address: 9401 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27617
Cuisine Type: Steakhouse
The Angus Barn is a Steakhouse Restaurant in Raleigh with a reputation for excellent service and delicious food. Angus Barn is perfect for special occasions, celebrations, and even weddings.
Best known for its beautiful wine cellar, a large cigar bar, complimentary cheese and crackers, and relish trays, the Angus Barn is a restaurant you must try. The menu includes numerous appetizers, steaks, ribs, and seafood, with fabulous sides and dessert if you have room.
Their wine selection is endless, and they have wine tastings and wine cellar dinners for anyone who wants to get out and meet new people.
Although a bit pricier than some of the restaurants on our list, the Angus Barn ensures the quality of food and ambiance you would expect.
6. Caffe Luna
Address: 136 E Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Cuisine Type: Italian
Regarding Italian restaurants in Downtown Raleigh, Caffe Luna is a go-to spot. You feel like family in this restaurant, and they set an excellent example for the rest of the dining establishments in Raleigh.
Caffe Luna is topping our list because of great food, service, location, attention to detail, and a commitment to your experience. Considered a popular lunch and dinner spot, Caffe Luna serves delicious Northern Italian cuisine and pasta dishes.
Caffe Luna has a warm, romantic atmosphere with exposed brick walls and is known for hosting wedding receptions and private events.
7. Bida Manda
Address: 222 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Cuisine Type: Laotian
Bida Manda is a must-try restaurant in Downtown Raleigh. Some people will even go as far as to say it is the best restaurant in Raleigh, NC.
Come with friends or family to experience and celebrate Laos's diverse food and cultural traditions. The meaning behind Bida Manda is from the Sanskrit ceremonial terms for Father and Mother.
Lao cuisine is a flavorful marriage of Thai, Vietnamese, and Chinese foods refined by French cooking techniques. From the Crispy Pork Belly Soup to the Pad Thai and Basil Stir Fry, Bida Manda has the types of dishes anyone will enjoy while maintaining a Laotian culinary experience.
This Downtown Raleigh Restaurant is located in Moore Square. It is so popular that reservations for a Friday or Saturday night are nearly impossible without scheduling days in advance. They typically have walk-in availability after 10 p.m., but it's worth the wait.
8. Fiction Kitchen
Address: 2409 Crabtree Blvd #100, Raleigh, NC 27604
Cuisine Type: Vegan
Searching for a Vegetarian restaurant in Raleigh, NC? Look no further!
A hidden gem in the Warehouse District of Downtown Raleigh, NC, is a vegetarian restaurant that will keep carnivores returning for more. One of the best parts about Fiction Kitchen is the experience, the service, and the commitment to high-quality local ingredients.
Like Bida Manda, Fiction Kitchen is regarded by many as one of the best restaurants in Raleigh. If you check local reviews, it's hard to find anything under 4.5 stars for Fiction Kitchen, and it is usually found among the top five restaurants.
A colorful and flavorful menu is the only thing brighter than the restaurant's exterior walls. Famous for their mock "pulled pork" and chicken and waffles, Fiction Kitchen showcases how vegetarian cuisine can be flavorful and satisfying.
9. Tazza Kitchen
Address: 432 Woodburn Rd, Raleigh, NC 27605
Cuisine Type: New American
Are you looking for food with serious inspiration and a commitment to knowing local farmers? Check out Tazza Kitchen, which is located in the Village District, a popular Raleigh neighborhood.
A short drive west of Downtown Raleigh and North of NC State—a perfect spot for anyone in the mood to have brunch, lunch, or dinner.
It holds one menu with various foods, from appetizers and tacos to seafood and pasta. But if you crave an oven-baked, delicious pizza, look no further. Tazza Kitchen is European-inspired, so it's a great place to eat Italian, Mediterranean, or anything with a unique European flavor.
You will know you picked the right place when you see the pizzas on their menu. Tazza Kitchen is known for its pizzas. Although the menu is not the longest, they have plenty of varieties.
They are known for their Spicy Sausage and Black Pepper Honey pizza. Tazza Kitchen offers appetizing prices and thirst-quenching drinks along with their delicious food. The service is excellent. If you prefer, there is outdoor seating on a decorated patio, which is also dog-friendly.
10. Sullivan's Steakhouse
Address: 410 Glenwood Ave #100, Raleigh, NC 27603
Cuisine Type: Steakhouse
If you're looking for a great steakhouse in Raleigh, Sullivan's constantly appears on some of the best restaurant lists. Located on the quickly growing Glenwood Ave in Downtown Raleigh, Sullivan's Steakhouse is a prime place for steak or seafood.
Their menu covers many favorites, including Filet Mignon, Lobster Tail, Burgers, Soups, and Salads. The side dishes include handsome portions of baked potato, macaroni and cheese, king crab, gnocchi, and much more.
Offering a combination of great food and drink, Sullivan's is known to keep its guests coming back for more. The restaurant features a business-friendly atmosphere that is popular for corporate dinners and has private dining rooms available for events.
With multiple locations around the United States, Sullivan's Steakhouse can be found from the West Coast to the East Coast. Due to its excellent dining experience and great location, sometimes reservations must be made beforehand.
11. The Pit Authentic Barbecue
Address: 328 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Cuisine Type: Barbecue
Did you know that the history of North Carolina Barbecue dates back to when European settlers reached America?
Please prepare your taste buds for authentic North Carolina barbecue when you visit The Pit Authentic Barbecue. You can choose from several different BBQ sauce options for your entree, and the North Carolina sauce has a vinegar base.
The Pit Restaurant and Barbecue offers a classy setting to visitors with dim lighting, incredible decorations, and a comfortable seating arrangement.
The Downtown Raleigh Restaurant is usually packed, especially on the weekend, so please make sure to get a reservation ahead of time so you don't have to wait at the hostess stand. Don't worry, though, as there is a large selection of beers and cocktails to order, and The Pit has bar seating.
This authentic barbecue restaurant is located in the Warehouse District, in Downtown Raleigh, on W Davie St. It is a lovely brick building across the street from Crank Arm Brewery and next to Boxcar. It is a great place to grab brunch, lunch, or dinner with friends and family. If you're celebrating something special, let the staff know.
The prices are fair, and the quality of the ingredients is excellent. The restaurant has a great dining room, which makes it a nice place for a romantic or relaxing family dinner.
12. Beasley's Chicken and Honey
Address: 237 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Cuisine Type: Chicken
One of Raleigh's best restaurants, Beasley's Chicken and Honey, is at the corner of Wilmington and Martin Street.
Beasley's is one of the handfuls of Ashley Christensen's downtown Raleigh Restaurants and is a great place for brunch, lunch, and dinner. It's been on several lists for the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC, and good reason.
When visiting Beasley's Chicken and Honey, fried chicken and waffles are an absolute must-try. The restaurant uses some of the best ingredients, and the chicken has to be of the highest quality. The chicken is flavorful in and of itself; combine that with maple syrup and waffles, and you have one of Raleigh's most famous meals.
The menu offers far more than fried chicken and waffles. There are biscuits and gravy, sandwiches, egg casseroles, and plenty more. It is a proper combination of Southern flavor with a foundation built on fried chicken.
13. Poole's Diner
Address: 428 South McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Cuisine Type: American
Poole's Diner opened in 2007, and it was the first Ashley Christensen restaurant in the Raleigh area. Housed in a historic diner with retro red leather banquettes, it uses a chalkboard menu to bring classic American comfort food to your table.
Serving delicious dishes with Southern influences, Poole's Diner has a macaroni au gratin that is worth a flight to Raleigh to try. Be careful, though, because this meal is big, and you will be the highlight of the table.
14. Sushi O
Address: 222 Glenwood Ave Suite #117, Raleigh, NC 27603
Cuisine Type: Sushi
If you're looking for the best sushi restaurant in Raleigh, NC, you must visit Sushi O.
There is something for everyone on this menu. One of Raleigh's best Asian-inspired Restaurants, Sushi O offers much more than just sushi. The menu consists of Thai, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisine. If you're in the mood for pad thai or sesame chicken, you will find your favorite Asian dishes on the menu.
Popular for happy hour with drink and sushi specials, Sushi O features an extensive sake selection and Japanese whiskeys.
15. Glenwood Grill
Address: 2603 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27608
Cuisine Type: Southern
Glenwood Grill is an inspired Carolina cuisine, bringing the flavor of the south to Downtown Raleigh.
You will not be disappointed with your Glenwood Grill experience, whether lunch or dinner, especially if you are looking for some Southern cooking and flavors.
Glenwood Grill serves a variety of different types of foods from the grill. Known for its seafood dishes with low-country influences, the seasonal menu at this restaurant highlights local and fresh ingredients.
16. Stanbury
Address: 938 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604
Cuisine Type: American
Stanbury is a celebrated neighborhood restaurant known for its sophisticated yet approachable cuisine and intimate dining experience.
Known for its creative small plates, inventive preparations of local ingredients, and excellent charcuterie, the menu changes frequently based on seasonal ingredients and the chef's inspiration.
Stanbury represents Raleigh's evolving food scene, emphasizing quality ingredients, creative preparations, and a personal dining experience—making it a top Raleigh restaurant.
17. Bad Daddy's Burger Bar
Address: 111 Seaboard Ave, Raleigh, NC 27604
Cuisine Type: Hamburger
Searching for a great burger in Raleigh, NC?
Bad Daddy's Burger Bar is a Downtown Raleigh Restaurant known for having some of the best burgers in Raleigh.
Located on Seaboard Avenue and just off Peace Street, Bad Daddy's Burger Bar offers a convenient, cozy, and comfortable dining experience. In addition to burgers, the menu includes sandwiches, salads, and several great appetizers and sides to enjoy with friends and family.
If you're in the mood for a great burger in Raleigh, Bad Daddy's is a must-try. Although there are several quality burger places in the area, Bad Daddy's is constantly recommended as one of the top options.
There is truly something for everyone at Bad Daddy's. Vegetarians have a terrific salad menu, and anyone who doesn't like red meat has plenty of other options, such as buffalo chicken, turkey burger, and even a tuna burger. The create-your-own options allow for endless possibilities and combinations for your burger or salad.
Methodology
Local experience, menu items, and reviews and ratings were considered to determine the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC.
FAQs
What food is Raleigh, NC, famous for?
Raleigh is best known for its North Carolina-style barbecue, which features smoky flavors. It also offers southern classic cuisine, including fried chicken and biscuits and gravy.
Is Raleigh, NC, a foodie city?
Yes, Raleigh features a diverse and thriving food scene, especially as the city grows and welcomes more restaurants and innovative chefs. With a strong emphasis on fresh and local ingredients, Raleigh has also seen a rise in food halls and food truck culture.
Final Thoughts on the 17 Best Restaurants in Raleigh, NC
Raleigh's restaurant scene truly offers something for everyone, from upscale dining experiences at establishments like Second Empire and Angus Barn to innovative concepts like Brewery Bhavana and Fiction Kitchen.
As Raleigh continues to attract new residents from across the country, its culinary landscape will continue to evolve and expand.
Whether you're considering a move to Raleigh or are simply looking to explore more of what your hometown has to offer, we hope this guide inspires you to venture out and discover new dining experiences that make Raleigh such a special place to live.
