12 Best Restaurants in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, N.C., is known for its rich cultural scene, vibrant economy, and diverse culinary landscape. Whether you are in the mood for authentic Southern cuisine or want to explore global flavors, you will find a range of delightful restaurants in Raleigh, NC. This guide will highlight some of the best dining establishments, from upscale restaurants to cozy cafes, offering something for every palate.

Poole's is a beloved institution known for its creative take on classic Southern fare. Owned by acclaimed chef Ashley Christensen, the diner offers a menu that changes weekly (and sometimes daily), reimagining different comfort foods. Poole’s is a rare diner offering exceptional vegetarian dishes like roasted beets and marinated avocado. The diner’s signature mains include chicken, pork, steak, and seafood options. You’ll feel right at home in the warm, retro-chic interior.

Experience classic French cuisine with a modern twist at Vidrio. Located on Glenwood Ave. in Glenwood South, the elegant restaurant features an extensive wine list and a seasonal menu showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The small plates menu sets the tone with dressed oysters, charred octopus, and several appetizing cheese dishes. Expertly prepared dishes and attentive service make Vidrio perfect for a special occasion or romantic evening.

Brewery Bhavana is a unique concept that seamlessly blends a brewery, dim sum restaurant, flower shop, and bookstore into one cohesive space. Its innovative Asian-inspired menu includes a selection of dim sum, noodles, and main courses like crispy pork belly and dumplings. Pair your meal with one of their house-brewed craft beers, which range from aromatic IPAs to dark stouts. The spacious dining area is beautifully designed, providing a tranquil ambiance that enhances the overall experience.

One of Raleigh’s more stylish restaurants, Cortez offers a menu brimming with fresh seafood. Inspired by several international cuisines, the menu features flavorful items like ceviche, fried shrimp taquitos, and carne asada. Cortez opens for dinner every day but Monday at 5 p.m. Happy hour runs until 6 p.m. and the kitchen closes at 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday night.

Bida Manda is a Laotian restaurant offering a refined dining experience inspired by the flavors of Southeast Asia. The restaurant’s warm, rustic interior creates an inviting space where guests can enjoy delicacies like watercress salad, spicy coconut chicken soup, and duck laab. A thoughtfully curated cocktail list complements the vibrant dishes, making Bida Manda a destination for those seeking new and exciting flavors in restaurants in Raleigh, NC.

For vegetarian and vegan cuisine in Raleigh, The Fiction Kitchen is a standout choice. This restaurant offers creative plant-based dishes that appeal to vegetarians and omnivores alike. Try their famous Southern-fried "chicken" and waffles, made with a crispy seitan-based alternative, or their curry with seasonal vegetables. The Fiction Kitchen also has an extensive bar menu featuring locally sourced craft beers and imaginative cocktails, adding to its reputation as a must-visit spot.

Housed in a restored 19th-century mansion, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern provides a fine dining experience that blends history and elegance. The restaurant’s main dining room features a sophisticated menu with dishes like pan-roasted quail, Australian lamb, and pork rib chops. For a more casual setting, head to the tavern downstairs, where you can take your pick from the restaurant’s extensive selection of cocktails, local beers, and boutique wines.

Caffe Luna brings the flavors of Italy to Raleigh with its classic Tuscan dishes and relaxed European atmosphere. The menu includes traditional pasta, seafood, and meat dishes like grilled chicken breast and New York strip steak. The restaurant’s airy dining room provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening or a celebratory dinner with friends. Their extensive wine list features Italian and international selections to pair with your meal.

Stanbury is a New American restaurant focusing on fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create bold, eclectic dishes. The menu changes frequently, but past offerings have included duck liver mousse, braised rabbit, and smoked lamb. The restaurant's unpretentious setting, communal tables, and open kitchen encourage a social dining experience enhanced by its innovative cocktails and carefully curated wine list.

If you’re craving seafood, head to St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar, which brings the flavors of New Orleans to Raleigh. Their oyster bar serves fresh, briny oysters from both coasts, complemented by a menu featuring crawfish hushpuppies and barbeque shrimp dishes. Pair your meal with a selection from their inventive cocktail menu, and enjoy the lively atmosphere in this laid-back spot that captures the spirit of the Big Easy.

Death and Taxes is another creation from chef Ashley Christensen, offering wood-fired cuisine in a sleek, industrial-chic setting. The restaurant focuses on grilling and roasting meats and vegetables over an open flame, resulting in intensely flavored dishes like chicken liver and grilled scallops. The menu is complemented by a well-rounded selection of wines and cocktails that enhance the smoky flavors. The minimalist design and attentive service make Death & Taxes a memorable dining destination.

Crawford and Son is a neighborhood restaurant offering comforting yet innovative New American cuisine. The warm, modern setting and casual atmosphere make it a popular spot for special occasions and casual weeknight dinners. The menu changes regularly based on seasonal availability, but guests can expect thoughtfully crafted dishes, from strawberry salad to grilled lamb loin.

If you're considering moving to Raleigh and exploring the area's real estate opportunities, reach out to Karena Stipp. With her local expertise and commitment to helping clients find the perfect home, Karena can guide you through the process and help you discover the best the city offers. Contact Karena Stipp today to start your journey to enjoying Raleigh's culinary delights.