Raleigh, North Carolina is a city that is known for its delicious food. From southern comfort food to international cuisine, Raleigh has something for everyone.
In this blog post, we will be highlighting 20 of the best restaurants in Raleigh.
Whether you are looking for a casual dining experience or a more upscale meal, you will find the perfect restaurant on this list!
#1. Angus Barn
Located just a short drive from downtown Raleigh, Angus Barn is one of the city’s most popular restaurants. The steakhouse has been a local favorite for nearly 50 years, and it’s easy to see why.
Angus Barn is known for its top-quality steaks, which are hand-selected and aged for 28 days. The menu also features a wide selection of seafood, poultry, and vegetarian options, making it a great choice for any diner.
In addition to its excellent food, Angus Barn is also known for its impressive wine list, which features more than 1,000 labels. With its combination of great food and world-class wines, it’s no wonder Angus Barn is one of Raleigh’s best restaurants.
#2. Barcelona Wine Bar
Barcelona Wine Bar is one of the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC. The restaurant is known for its excellent Spanish food and wine. The menu features tapas, paella, and other traditional Spanish dishes.
The wine list includes a wide selection of Spanish wines, as well as other international options. The Barcelona Wine Bar also has a great atmosphere, with a lively bar area and a cozy dining room.
The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and they make sure that every customer has a great experience. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner for two or a night out with friends, Barcelona Wine Bar is the perfect place to go.
#3. Beasley’s
For a truly enjoyable dining experience, you can’t go wrong with Beasley’s.
This Raleigh institution is known for its delicious Southern-inspired cuisine, and its welcoming atmosphere is perfect for a night out with family or friends.
The menu features all of your favorites, from fried chicken and shrimp to collard greens and mac and cheese. And of course, no meal at Beasley’s is complete without one of their famous sweet tea biscuits.
Whether you’re a Raleigh native or just visiting for the weekend, Beasley’s is definitely worth a visit.
#4. Bella Monica
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, look no further than Bella Monica. This acclaimed restaurant offers a tantalizing array of Italian-inspired dishes, expertly prepared using only the freshest ingredients.
The pasta is made fresh daily, and the pizza dough is hand-tossed to perfection. The menu also features an extensive selection of wines, making it the perfect place to enjoy a romantic evening out.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner for two or a festive night out with friends, Bella Monica is sure to please. Buon appetito!
#5. Bida Manda
Bida Manda is one of Raleigh, North Carolina’s best restaurants, serving up authentic Laotian cuisine in a modern setting.
The restaurant is helmed by husband-and-wife team Vansana and Menlo Nalydthavong, who draw on their family’s culinary traditions to create dishes that are both vibrant and flavorful.
The menu features a variety of small plates and family-style entrees, all of which are perfect for sharing. Standouts include the fresh spring rolls, the creamy coconut soup, and the grilled pineapple with sticky rice.
Wash it all down with a refreshing lychee martini or a glass of real Lao iced tea. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Bida Manda is sure to please.
#6. Brewery Bhavana
Brewery Bhavana is one of Raleigh, NC’s best restaurants, and it’s easy to see why. The space is both beautiful and welcoming, with an on-site brewery and flower shop.
The menu is creative and eclectic, with something for everyone. And the food is simply delicious. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a hearty dinner, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Brewery Bhavana.
And if you’re a beer lover, you’ll be in heaven. Brewery Bhavana has its own on-site brewery, and the beer list features both local and international brews. There’s truly something for everyone at this Raleigh gem.
#7. Centro
If you’re looking for a great place to eat in Raleigh, Centro is definitely worth checking out. The menu features a variety of delicious Italian dishes, and the prices are very reasonable.
The staff is also extremely friendly and helpful, so you’re sure to have a great dining experience. In addition, the restaurant has a beautiful setting, with an outdoor patio that’s perfect for enjoying a meal on a nice day.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a casual lunch with friends, Centro is sure to please.
#8. Crawford and Son
Crawford and Son is one of the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC. The chef, Scott Crawford, focuses on seasonal ingredients to create inventive dishes that are both delicious and beautiful.
The restaurant has a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, and the service is attentive and professional. The menu features starters such as roasted beet salad and grilled octopus, as well as main courses such as pan-roasted chicken and seared scallops.
There is also an excellent selection of wine and cocktails. Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner for two or a place to celebrate a special occasion, Crawford and Son is sure to impress.
#9. Glenwood Grill
Glenwood Grill is one of the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC. The menu features familiar favorites like burgers and fries, as well as more adventurous options like duck confit and lamb chops.
The kitchen makes use of fresh, local ingredients, and the chef is always happy to accommodate special dietary requests. The dining room is cozy and warm, with dark wood floors and exposed brick walls.
The service is always attentive and friendly, without being overly intrusive. In short, Glenwood Grill is the perfect place to enjoy a casual meal with friends or a romantic dinner for two.
Whether you’re a Raleigh native or just passing through, be sure to pay a visit to Glenwood Grill. You won’t be disappointed.
#10. Guasaca Arepa & Salsa Grill
Guasaca Arepa & Salsa Grill offers a unique culinary experience, featuring a variety of traditional Venezuelan dishes.
Arepas are a type of sandwich made with cornmeal dough, and they can be filled with any number of ingredients, including meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
Guasaca’s arepas are some of the best in Raleigh, and they’re perfect for any meal. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of salsas and sauces, which can be used to customize your dish.
If you’re looking for a delicious and authentic Venezuelan meal, then Guasaca Arepa & Salsa Grill is the place for you.
#11. Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery is one of Raleigh, NC’s best restaurants. The cafe is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch options, as well as its wide selection of desserts.
The menu features classics like eggs Benedict and pancakes, as well as fun twists on old favorites. For instance, the “Benedict Arnold” features bacon, avocado, and a poached egg on an English muffin, while the “Red Velvet Pancakes” are made with red velvet cake batter and topped with cream cheese frosting.
In addition to its inventive entrees, Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery also offers an impressive array of sweets. The cafe’s signature dessert is the “Banana Pudding Trifle,” which layers vanilla wafers, banana pudding, and whipped cream.
Other popular desserts include the “Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie” and the “Strawberry Shortcake.” With its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery is one of Raleigh’s best restaurants.
#12. Lee’s Kitchen
Raleigh, NC is known for its numerous restaurants that cater to all sorts of taste buds. However, one of the best places to eat in Raleigh is Lee’s Kitchen.
This family-owned Chinese restaurant has been serving up delicious meals for over 20 years, and its popularity shows no signs of waning. The menu features all of the Chinese classics, including stir-fries, noodle dishes, and rice platters.
But what really sets Lee’s Kitchen apart from other Chinese restaurants is its commitment to freshness. All of the ingredients are sourced from local farms, and the dishes are cooked to order.
As a result, the food at Lee’s Kitchen is always flavorful and satisfying. So next time you’re in Raleigh, be sure to stop by Lee’s Kitchen for a truly wonderful dining experience.
#13. Neomonde Mediterranean Raleigh
Neomonde Mediterranean is a must-visit restaurant for anyone who loves good food.
The restaurant offers a wide variety of mouthwatering Mediterranean dishes, all of which are prepared with fresh, quality ingredients. The chefs at Neomonde Mediterranean take great pride in their work, and it shows in the delicious dishes they create.
In addition to the excellent food, Neomonde Mediterranean also has a beautiful dining room with an inviting atmosphere. The staff is professional and attentive, and they make sure that every guest feels welcome.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or a casual meal with friends, Neomonde Mediterranean is the perfect place to go.
#14. Saint Jacques French Cuisine
Saint Jacques French Cuisine is a charming restaurant located in the heart of Raleigh, NC.
The menu features classic French dishes with a modern twist, and the atmospheric dining room is the perfect setting for a romantic evening out.
The service is attentive and professional, and the wine list is impressive. Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner for two or a night out with friends, Saint Jacques French Cuisine is sure to please. Bon appetit!
#15. Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern
If you’re looking for a truly memorable dining experience, look no further than Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern in Raleigh, NC.
From the moment you step through the door, you’ll be transported back in time to an era of opulence and luxury. The stately dining room, complete with a grand fireplace and antique furnishings, sets the stage for an unforgettable meal.
The menu features classic American cuisine with a modern twist, and the wine list is impeccable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a night out on the town, Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern is sure to exceed your expectations.
#16. Seoul Garden
If you’re looking for a delicious Korean restaurant in Raleigh, NC, look no further than Seoul Garden!
This family-owned business offers a variety of traditional Korean dishes, as well as some fusion items that are sure to please everyone in your group.
The bibimbap is a must-try, and the kimchi pancakes are perfect for sharing. For something a little more substantial, the dolsot Bibimbap comes with your choice of protein and is served in a hot stone bowl.
And don’t forget to order a side of soybean paste soup to round out your meal. Whether you’re a Korean food aficionado or simply looking to try something new, Seoul Garden is the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner.
#17. Sitti
Located in the heart of Raleigh, Sitti is one of the best restaurants in the city. The menu features a mix of traditional Mediterranean dishes and modern twists on classic favorites.
For starters, be sure to try the hummus plate, which comes with a variety of dipping options including roasted red pepper, olive tapenade, and spiced lamb sausage.
For the main course, the lamb shank is served with a flavorful tomato-based sauce and creamy mashed potatoes. And for dessert, the Baklava Cheesecake is a must-have.
Made with phyllo dough, honey, nuts, and spices, this decadent treat is the perfect way to end your meal. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a place to enjoy a night out with friends, Sitti is sure to please.
#18. The Cortez
The Cortez is one of Raleigh, NC’s best restaurants, serving up delicious Spanish-inspired fare.
The menu features tapas such as shrimp flambé and chorizo-stuffed mushrooms, as well as classic entrees like paella and grilled chicken. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list, featuring options from all over Spain.
The Cortez is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or a night out with friends. The friendly staff will make you feel right at home, and the food is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Whether you’re looking for an intimate dining experience or a lively night out, the Cortez is the perfect place to go.
#19. Union Special
Union Special is one of the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC. The menu features delicious Southern-inspired dishes, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.
The staff is incredibly friendly, and they go out of their way to make sure that each and every customer has a great experience. The restaurant is also known for its outstanding cocktails, which are made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
In addition to being one of the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC, Union Special is also one of the most affordable. That makes it the perfect place to enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience, be sure to check out Union Special. You won’t be disappointed.
#20. Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing
Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing is one of the best restaurants in the city.
The menu features a fusion of traditional American and European cuisine, and the chefs make use of fresh, local ingredients. The result is a dining experience that is both creative and delicious.
The restaurant also features an extensive beer list, with both local and international brews available. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a night out with friends, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing is sure to please.