15 Best Restaurants in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, North Carolina, boasts a culinary scene that reflects its culture and history. From Southern comfort food to international flavors, Raleigh's restaurants offer something to satisfy every palate. Fifteen locally-owned establishments stand out for their exceptional cuisine and inviting atmospheres—read on to find your next restaurant to visit.

Located in downtown Raleigh, Poole's Diner is a beloved institution renowned for its elevated comfort food and retro-chic ambiance. Chef Ashley Christensen's innovative take on Southern classics, like macaroni au gratin and fried chicken, has earned Poole's a spot on the national culinary map. Known for its retro-chic ambiance, Poole's Diner offers a menu featuring Southern classics like macaroni au gratin and fried chicken. Expect a cozy atmosphere and a focus on comfort food.

Inspired by global street food and locally sourced ingredients, Garland offers an eclectic dining experience in downtown Raleigh. Opened in 2013, Garland serves up a fusion of global street food flavors. Chef Cheetie Kumar's Indian heritage influences its menu and offers dishes like tandoori chicken and Korean-style tacos, made with locally sourced ingredients.

Another gem from Chef Ashley Christensen, Beasley's Chicken + Honey celebrates fried chicken with a gourmet twist. The menu in downtown Raleigh includes comfort food sides like honey-drizzled biscuits and mac 'n' cheese.

Look no further than The Fiction Kitchen for vegetarian and vegan fare that's anything but bland. Chef Caroline Morrison's imaginative dishes, such as BBQ pulled "pork" made from jackfruit, have won over even the most carnivorous diners in Raleigh.

In Raleigh's historic Mordecai neighborhood, Stanbury offers a seasonal menu highlighting North Carolina's best farms and fisheries. This farm-to-table restaurant is a favorite among locals and visitors with its cozy yet elegant atmosphere.

Experience the flavors of Laos at Bida Manda, a family-owned restaurant in downtown Raleigh. From crispy pork belly to fragrant noodle soups, Chef Van Nolintha's authentic dishes celebrate his heritage and delight diners with every bite.

Part brewery, part bookstore, part dim sum restaurant, Brewery Bhavana is a culinary destination in Raleigh's Moore Square District. Whether savoring a craft beer or sampling dumplings, this establishment offers a dining experience. Alongside its craft beers, the establishment offers a diverse menu of dim sum and other Asian-inspired dishes.

Craving Italian comfort food? Head to Gravy in downtown Raleigh, where Chef Tony Fusco serves up hearty pasta dishes and classic Italian-American fare with a modern twist. Don't miss the house-made meatballs or the indulgent tiramisu for dessert.

Located in Raleigh's Warehouse District, Death & Taxes is a shop for wood-fired cooking and Southern hospitality. Chef Ashley Christensen's menu features locally sourced meats and seasonal vegetables, all expertly prepared over an open flame.The restaurant offers locally sourced meats and seasonal vegetables cooked over an open flame.

Helmed by Chef Scott Crawford, a James Beard Award nominee, Crawford and Son is a neighborhood eatery in Raleigh's Oakwood neighborhood. Focusing on seasonal ingredients and inventive flavors, this restaurant offers a dining experience like no other.

When it comes to North Carolina barbecue, The Pit reigns supreme in Raleigh. Pitmaster Ed Mitchell's slow-cooked, wood-smoked meats and classic Southern sides like collard greens and hushpuppies have earned this downtown institution a loyal following.

Tucked away in Raleigh's historic Hayes Barton neighborhood, Mandolin offers a taste of Southern hospitality with a contemporary twist. Chef Sean Fowler's farm-to-table menu features locally sourced ingredients in dishes like shrimp, grits, and crispy duck breast.

For authentic Lebanese cuisine in the heart of Raleigh, look no further than Sitti. Opened in 2008, Sitti is a family-owned Lebanese restaurant located in Raleigh's historic Briggs Building. The menu features traditional dishes like falafel, shawarma, and hummus made from scratch.

Craving Mexican street food with a creative twist? Head to Gringo A Go Go in downtown Raleigh. Established in 2010, Gringo A Go Go offers Mexican street food with a flair. The menu includes a variety of tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, along with an extensive selection of margaritas and cocktails.

Plates Neighborhood Kitchen in Raleigh's Glenwood South district offers modern American cuisine with a Southern twist. Chef Chris Santucci's menu features seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, ensuring fresh and flavorful dishes with every visit.

Raleigh, NC, is a food lover's paradise with something for everyone. From Southern comfort food to global cuisine, Raleigh offers diverse dining experiences that can satisfy any craving. Whether you're a lifelong resident or considering a move to the area, delving into the local dining scene is essential to truly understanding and appreciating the city's culture and lifestyle.

Contact Greenwood Residential today to start your journey towards discovering the best of what Raleigh, NC, has to offer, both in terms of its culinary delights and real estate market.