21 Best Raleigh Restaurants To Try in 2024
Raleigh restaurants are a culinary delight. Nestled in the heart of beautiful North Carolina, the capital city of Raleigh offers a diverse and eclectic dining scene that caters to every taste bud and occasion. With a plethora of dining options, from cozy cafés to upscale bistros, Raleigh restaurants beckon food enthusiasts with their innovative menus and welcoming ambiance.
In search of the perfect dining spot, one might wonder: What makes Raleigh restaurants stand out among the culinary destinations in and around North Carolina? Is it the farm-to-table ethos, the innovative chefs pushing culinary boundaries, or the rich melting pot of cultural influences reflected in each dish? Whether you're a local looking to discover hidden gems or a visitor eager to indulge in the city's culinary delights, let's uncover the culinary treasures that await in Raleigh’s restaurants in this bustling scene.
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21 Best Restaurants in Raleigh
1. St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar
St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar stands out among Raleigh restaurants as a destination for authentic New Orleans cuisine with a twist. Chef and owner Sunny Gerhart infuses familiar dishes with unexpected flavors, creating a dining experience that surprises and delights.
The Vibe
The restaurant's interior strikes a balance between sophistication and casual comfort, reflecting the essence of New Orleans where Chef Sunny Gerhart hails from. The interior features exposed brick and vents, ample lighting and spacious seating.
What to Order
While at St. Roch's, don't miss the opportunity to try their oysters, which can be enjoyed raw or roasted. Add some crawfish hushpuppies or crispy frog legs to your order for a true taste of New Orleans.
St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar | 223 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27603 | $$$
2. Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
Beasley's Chicken + Honey is one of many beloved Raleigh restaurants headed by Chef Ashley Christensen, offering elevated renditions of Southern favorites, with a focus on crispy, golden-fried chicken.
The Vibe
The atmosphere at Beasley's is both inviting and trendy, with a charming interior adorned with light wood floors, industrial ceilings and vibrant red tabletops — all bathed in natural light.
What to Order
You can’t leave this Raleigh restaurant without trying the signature fried chicken, perfectly paired with a drizzle of honey. Don't miss out on the pimento mac and cheese custard, a creative twist on a classic comfort dish.
Beasley’s Chicken + Honey | 237 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$
3. Ajja
Ajja, a new addition to the impressive array of Raleigh restaurants, opened its doors in 2023 and offers a unique fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. Ajja brings together art, music and a global culinary perspective. The restaurant's name, derived from the Sanskrit term meaning "mother," reflects its nurturing approach to local ingredients and flavors.
The Vibe
Step into Ajja and immerse yourself in a fun and funky atmosphere adorned with colorful lanterns and warm-toned décor. Whether you choose to dine indoors or in the inviting outdoor seating area, expect a vibrant ambiance that complements the eclectic fusion of flavors.
What to Order
Indulge in this Raleigh restaurant’s culinary delights by starting with their spare ribs, which promise a succulent flavor. For a taste of the Mediterranean, the lamb seekh offers a savory and satisfying option. Vegetarian visitors can delight in the king trumpet mushrooms.
Ajja | 209 Bickett Blvd., Raleigh, NC 27608 | $$
4. Poole’s Diner
Opened in late 2007, Poole's Diner occupies a historic building that dates back to 1945. Chef Ashley Christensen has transformed this Raleigh restaurant’s space into a modern diner, unpretentious and comforting, reminiscent of classic diners from the era. The name pays homage to the building's original occupant, Poole's Pie Shop.
The Vibe
Poole's Diner offers a retro-chic ambiance with its red vinyl barstools and low lighting. If you’re looking for good food and a trip back in time, Poole’s is one of the Raleigh restaurants you have to check out.
What to Order
For an adventurous start, try the chicken liver pâté. Follow it up with the short rib pot pie for a hearty and satisfying meal, showcasing Poole's Diner's innovative take on classic comfort food.
Poole’s Diner | 426 S. McDowell St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$$
5. The Angus Barn
Since 1960, The Angus Barn has stood as the top legendary steakhouse on the Raleigh restaurant scene, renowned for its exceptional quality and service. What began as a modest barn has transformed into a sophisticated dining destination, complete with a dress code and one of the country's largest wine cellars. Reservations are required.
The Vibe
Despite its barnlike interior, The Angus Barn exudes an upscale charm. Inside, checkered tablecloths and wood-paneled walls create a cozy, rustic ambiance, while string lights add a touch of elegance.
What to Order
Indulge in one of The Angus Barn's classic cuts, such as the ribeye or the bone-in tomahawk, for a taste of perfection. End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of their chocolate chess pie, a true Southern classic.
The Angus Barn | 401 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC 27617 | $$$$
6. Stanbury
Stanbury is an excellent Raleigh restaurant where dishes are based on seasonal availability and exude creativity. The restaurant is dedicated to integrating and highlighting the region's local agricultural producers, showcasing a commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The Vibe
Stanbury has a rustic and eclectic vibe with a clean yet laid-back interior featuring lots of tables and booth seating. This Raleigh restaurant’s interior is hip and industrial, creating a vibrant atmosphere that's perfect for a casual yet sophisticated dining experience.
What to Order
Indulge in the crispy pig head or the roasted marrow, both of which showcase the Raleigh restaurant scene’s innovative approach to rustic, farm-to-table cuisine.
Stanbury | 938 N. Blount St., Raleigh, NC 27604 | $$$
7. Gonza Tacos y Tequila
Looking for best Mexican restaurant Raleigh has to offer? Look no further than Gonza Tacos y Tequila. With multiple locations as well as a mobile food truck, these Raleigh restaurants are known for their creative and flavorful dishes, combining traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist.
The Vibe
This Raleigh restaurant's atmosphere is lively and colorful, offering a unique and funky setting adorned with colorful star lanterns, art and Día de Muertos (Day of the Dead) memorabilia.
What to Order
For a taste of their best offerings, try the pollo and pastor tacos or indulge in the Mexican Flag dish, featuring steak and chicken with a medley of three sauces arranged in the colors of Mexico's flag.
Gonza Tacos y Tequila | Multiple Locations | $$
8. The Fiction Kitchen
For vegans who want the best of Raleigh’s restaurants, try The Fiction Kitchen, known for its sustainably sourced vegan cuisine. With over 10 years of culinary excellence, this establishment offers thoughtfully prepared dishes that highlight local and seasonal produce.
The Vibe
The restaurant's exterior is easily recognizable with its bright lime green paint, while the interior exudes warmth and coziness, adorned with string lights and offering both table and bar seating.
What to Order
For a taste of the vegan scene at Raleigh’s restaurants, try the homestyle meatloaf made with Impossible Beef or the chicken and waffles featuring fried mock chicken. As a lighter option, check out the peanut noodle bowl.
The Fiction Kitchen | 2409 Crabtree Blvd., #100, Raleigh, NC 27604 | $$
9. Wye Hill Brewing
Wye Hill is a unique restaurant and brewery in the Raleigh restaurants sphere, offering a modern and laid-back atmosphere with live music. The venue boasts innovative pub fare that aims to foster an inclusive environment, welcoming all to enjoy its offerings.
The Vibe
The abundant natural lighting and scenic patio on Boylan Bridge provide an unrivaled vantage point over Raleigh, making it a cherished spot for many residents.
What to Order
For a delightful snacking experience, try the deviled eggs or the roasted beet hummus. For the main course, the classic Wye Hill burger is a favorite. Opt for the Wagyu burger for a more indulgent choice.
Wye Hill Brewing | 201 S. Boylan Ave., Raleigh, NC 27603 | $$
10. Hayes Barton Café & Dessertery
For locals in Raleigh, restaurants that offer classic diner dishes with punny names often take the cake. Hayes Barton Café & Dessertery serves cuisine inspired by the American 1940s, featuring a charming exterior with Rosie the Riveter painted on the window.
The Vibe
The interior is a vintage-style diner, paying homage to the golden era of dining, adorned with iconic photography and memorabilia from the 1940s and 1950s. Guests will find classic checkered flooring, vinyl stools at the bar and comfortable table seating.
What to Order
For dinner, try the Marilyn Crab Cakes or the Ava Gardener Salad. For those with a sweet tooth scouring Raleigh restaurants, don’t miss out on the abundance of freshly baked cakes, with flavors that rotate daily.
Hayes Barton Café & Dessertery | 2000 Fairview Road, Raleigh, NC 27608 | $$
11. Hummingbird
Hummingbird is a memorable Raleigh restaurant that offers a friendly and chic space and aims to be accessible to everybody for any occasion. The menu, while small, is robust and rotates seasonally with a few classics that nod to its New Orleans culinary roots.
The Vibe
The intimate space is designed to keep guests cozy and offers a moment of respite from the world outside. The portraits inside this Raleigh restaurant’s dining room are thoughtfully curated to represent all types of worldly people.
What to Order
The menu rotates seasonally, but expect dishes like smoked deviled eggs, steak frites and root vegetable pot pie.
Hummingbird | 1053 E. Whitaker Mill Road, # 111, Raleigh, NC 17604 | $$$
12. Irregardless
Irregardless is a long-standing café known for its global menu of locally sourced fare and live music. Of all of Raleigh’s restaurants, this one sets the tone for a vibrant dining experience. The menu caters to vegetarians and vegans with a variety of options.
The Vibe
The exterior boasts a groovy vibe with plenty of vines and greenery, creating a vibrant dining experience. Inside, the atmosphere is eclectic with vintage photography adorning the walls and a stage set up for live performances.
What to Order
For vegetarians, the cauliflower steak or eggplant Sichuan are excellent choices. Meat lovers can enjoy the pollo con mole for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
Irregardless | 901 W. Morgan St., Raleigh, NC 27603 | $$
13. Cheeni Indian Food Emporium
If you want some authentic Indian food from Raleigh’s restaurants, check out Cheeni Indian Food Emporium. This restaurant specializes in classic tiffin, offering a variety of Indian snacks like filter coffee, masala chai and Indian street-style toast.
The Vibe
The ambiance is bright and lively and this Raleigh restaurant’s interior is vibrant and eclectic, featuring on-theme upholstery and elegant décor.
What to Order
Don't miss the classics like samosa chaat or the buttered naan. If you're feeling adventurous, try the spicy lamb vindaloo for a fiery and flavorful experience.
Cheeni Indian Food Emporium | 1141 Falls River Ave., #124, Raleigh, NC 27614 | $$
14. Death & Taxes
Another culinary gem from Chef Ashley Christensen, a local celebrity chef amongst Raleigh restaurants, Death & Taxes is the perfect swanky, intimate option for diners looking to splurge on their night out.
The Vibe
Death & Taxes provides a sophisticated ambiance, with a cozy space featuring an open kitchen and elegant chandeliers — perfect for a special night out at one of Raleigh’s top restaurants.
What to Order
Indulge in the seasonal menu with dishes like smoked butternut squash velouté and marinated poulet rouge.
Death & Taxes | 105 W. Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$$
15. Cucciolo Terrazza
Cucciolo Terrazza offers a contemporary dining experience in the heart of North Hills. With a focus on simple yet delicious Italian cuisine, this Raleigh restaurant prides itself on using the highest quality ingredients.
The Vibe
Cucciolo Terrazza is modern and sleek with a number of seating options and contemporary chandeliers that create a sophisticated atmosphere.
What to Order
Start your meal with the crostini a la funghi, and then indulge in the lasagne or wild boar agnolotti for an authentic taste of Italy at one of the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC.
Cucciolo Terrazza | 4200 Six Forks Road, #100, Raleigh, NC 27609 | $$$
16. Big Ed’s Restaurant
Big Ed’s Restaurant is one of the most beloved Raleigh restaurants in The Triangle, and it has been serving North Carolina country classics since 1989. Founded by “Big Ed” Watkins, the restaurant has a rich history rooted in family recipes and community.
The Vibe
Located inside City Market, the atmosphere at Big Ed’s is laid back and charming, with farm and kitchen tools decorating the space and a rustic feel that adds to its Southern hospitality.
What to Order
If you’re in the mood for the best of down-home cooking at Raleigh’s restaurants, indulge in Big Ed’s country-style steak, local country ham or fried chicken livers over rice.
Big Ed’s Restaurant | 220 Wolfe St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $
17. Hady’s Restaurant International Cuisine
There are plenty of great Downtown Raleigh restaurants and Hady's Restaurant International Cuisine — a culinary gem offering a taste of Africa — is one of the best. Established in 2019 by owner Lamine, this restaurant is a testament to his passion for food and his Senegalese roots.
The Vibe
Step into Hady's and feel the warmth of Africa envelop you. The interior is cozy and inviting, adorned with colorful murals depicting scenes from the continent. Bright orange booths and red curtains add to the vibrant atmosphere.
What to Order
If you’re looking for a snack, try the classic beef or chicken patties. Experience rich and deep flavors with dishes like jollof rice with chicken.
Hady’s Restaurant International Cuisine | 17 E. Martin St., Ste. 199, Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$
18. The Roast Grill
The Roast Grill is a no-frills diner in Raleigh that has perfected the art of the hotdog. With a focus on simplicity and quality, they serve up fresh flattop-grilled hotdogs with classic toppings.
The Vibe
The Roast Grill offers a laid-back and unpretentious atmosphere. The interior is cozy and casual, with wood-paneled walls and vinyl stool seating at the bar.
What to Order
On this Raleigh restaurant’s pared-back menu, be sure to try their signature hotdogs with your choice of toppings: onions, mustard, slaw and homemade chili. For dessert, indulge in their homemade pound cake or Greek baklava.
The Roast Grill | Seven S. West St., Raleigh, NC 27603 | $
19. Union Special
If you’re looking for the best Raleigh restaurant for breakfast, try Union Special. This spot is a unique blend of bakery, sandwich shop and restaurant, offering a delightful array of culinary delights.
The Vibe
Step inside and you'll be greeted by bright, red and orange crescent stripes that adorn the interior, reminiscent of a sunrise over the horizon.
What to Order
Indulge in the classic Union Egg Sandwich for a satisfying meal, or opt for the Market Hash for a hearty and flavorful dish. In the mood for something lighter? The yogurt bowl is a refreshing option. If you're after lunch, visit later in the day for one of many unique sandwiches like a BLT with roasted pineapple.
Union Special | Multiple Locations | $
20. Seoul Garden
Seoul Garden offers a taste of traditional Korean cuisine among the array of Raleigh restaurants, featuring hearty stews and sizzling Korean barbecue dishes in a no-fluff setting.
The Vibe
The restaurant's simple yet comfortable ambiance — characterized by dark wood furniture and plain table tops — allows the food to take center stage.
What to Order
For a true Korean barbecue experience, indulge in the beef bulgogi, thinly sliced marinated beef that sizzles on the grill, and pair it with the kimchi fried rice.
Seoul Garden | 4701 Atlantic Ave., Raleigh, NC 27604 | $$
21. Crawford & Son
Crawford & Son is a casual neighborhood Raleigh restaurant nestled in Historic Oakwood neighborhood. Known for its straightforward and honest food, the menu offers a range of dishes, from familiar classics to exciting, unexpected dishes.
The Vibe
The ambiance at Crawford & Son strikes a balance between contemporary and casual. With a brick wall backdrop, the space features plenty of bar seating along with some tables for a comfortable dining experience.
What to Order
Don't miss this Raleigh restaurant’s staples, such as the sweet potato galette or the juicy duck breast.
Crawford & Son | 618 N. Person St., Raleigh, NC 27604 | $$$
Try Cooking Raleigh Foods
While going out to eat at Raleigh’s best restaurants is always a culinary delight, sometimes cooking at home is the best way to truly understand and appreciate the local flavors. Cooking classes in Raleigh offer the perfect opportunity to learn the secrets behind the dishes that make this area famous, from barbecue to biscuits. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting out, these classes can teach you new techniques and recipes that will impress your friends and family.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
The culinary scene found at Raleigh’s restaurants features a vibrant tapestry of flavors and cultures, reflecting the diverse influences and rich history of the area. From Southern comfort food to innovative fusion dishes found at Downtown Raleigh restaurants, the city’s food offerings provide something for every palate. So, next time you're in town, be sure to venture beyond the usual spots and discover the hidden gems that make Raleigh’s restaurants a true food lover's paradise.
For even more ways to explore Raleigh and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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