Raleigh, North Carolina is known for its incredible food scene that offers a wide variety of culinary options to suit every taste. If you’re looking for the most delicious dining experiences in the city, this carefully selected list reveals the top 10 restaurants that offer a unique and unforgettable eating journey. These places really focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They also use creative cooking techniques that make every dish taste amazing.
Each restaurant on this list showcases Raleigh’s dedication to culinary excellence, offering a range of classic favourites and daring culinary adventures. The chefs are truly dedicated to creating dishes that will delight your taste buds, guaranteeing a memorable dining experience for all who visit. If you’re in the mood for classic comfort food or if you’re looking to try something adventurous and full of flavour, these restaurants in Raleigh have got you covered.
They offer a wide range of delicious dishes that showcase the city’s diverse and vibrant food scene. Set out on a foodie adventure in Raleigh and let these delectable eateries highlight the city’s dedication to superb eating, where every dish is a celebration of flavour, originality, and regional flare!
List Of The Raleigh, North Carolina Best Restaurants
1. Angus Barn Steakhouse
The Angus Barn in Raleigh is a beloved institution, and it’s easy to see why. Since 1960, they have been known for serving some of the best steaks in the city. And let’s not forget about their equally delicious sides. The restaurant has a cosy and welcoming atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find a charming farmhouse-style decor, complete with checked tablecloths, antler chandeliers, and beautiful wooden beams. They also have an incredibly large wine cellar in the United States, boasting over 35,000 bottles.
If you’re wondering what to order at Angus Barn, I highly recommend trying their steaks. They are truly the highlight of the menu and are cooked to perfection over an open flame. Many people enjoy the prime rib, and the bone-in fillet mignon is also a popular option. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more unique, I would recommend trying the bison ribeye or the elk strip loin. They offer a different and delicious dining experience. Make sure you try the creamed spinach, mac and cheese, and onion rings on your sides. They’re all delicious!
2. Crawford and Son
Crawford and Son is a fantastic local restaurant that specialises in serving mouthwatering comfort food. You can expect their menu to change with the seasons, but rest assured, you’ll always find something fresh and full of flavour. The restaurant has a really nice and laid-back vibe, and the staff there are super friendly and welcoming.
If you’re wondering what to order, I highly recommend trying the fried chicken at Crawford and Son. It’s absolutely delicious! The texture is just right – crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The shrimp and grits are a popular choice, just like the meatloaf. Make sure you don’t forget to try the collard greens, mashed potatoes, and mac and cheese as your sides.
3. Bida Manda
Bida Manda is a Thai restaurant located in Raleigh that is known for serving incredibly authentic food. I really love their dishes because they are bursting with flavour. Plus, they offer a fantastic variety of vegetarian and vegan options. I really like the atmosphere of the restaurant, it’s always lively and full of energy. The service is also great, the staff is very attentive and takes care of everything.
If you’re wondering what to order, I highly recommend trying the pad thai at Bida Manda. It’s a delicious and well-executed classic Thai dish. I would recommend trying the green curry or the panang curry. Both of them are delicious options. If you’re in the mood for something vegetarian, I recommend trying the pad see ew with tofu or the yellow curry with vegetables. Make sure you try the sticky rice, papaya salad, and spring rolls as your sides.
4. Saint Jacques French Cuisine:
French restaurant Saint Jacques is located away in a strip mall and is a hidden culinary treasure that transports diners to the atmosphere of a cafe in Paris. The interior of the restaurant is beautifully decorated with elegant decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The lighting adds to the cosy environment, and the staff is attentive and friendly, ensuring that you have a wonderful dining experience.
Chef Jean-Pierre is truly skilled at adding a modern twist to classic French dishes. He does this by using fresh, seasonal ingredients that he sources from local farms. You have to try the Duck Confit, it’s amazing! The duck has a crispy skin and just melts in your mouth. It’s served with a delicious cherry sauce and creamy mashed potatoes. Another must-try is the Bouillabaisse, a stew from Provençal that is packed with lobster, mussels, clams, and whitefish.
The broth is infused with saffron, giving it a wonderful flavour. The Crème Brûlée is a timeless dessert that takes your taste buds on a delicious adventure. It features a flawlessly caramelised sugar crust that adds a delightful crunch, revealing a lusciously smooth and creamy custard underneath.
5. Neomonde Mediterranean Raleigh:
At Neomonde Mediterranean Raleigh, bright flavours from Greece, Italy, Spain, and Morocco mix to create a gourmet voyage around the area. You can witness culinary artistry firsthand in the open kitchen, where the air is filled with a delightful blend of herbs and spices. Our signature dishes are truly exceptional.
One of our favourites is the Moussaka, which is made with layers of seasoned ground lamb, creamy eggplant and béchamel sauce. It’s baked to a beautiful golden perfection. Another standout is the Branzino, a whole Mediterranean sea bass that’s grilled to perfection. The skin becomes wonderfully crispy, revealing the succulent and flaky flesh inside. We finish it off with a drizzle of lemon and olive oil, adding a burst of flavour. The Tagliatelle with Short Rib Ragu is a delicious dish that takes you on a journey. It features tender braised short ribs in a rich tomato sauce, served over homemade pasta. It’s a comforting and satisfying experience that you won’t want to miss.
6. Sitti:
Visit Sitti, a family-run eatery that exudes warmth and friendliness, and go on a gastronomic journey around Palestine. At this place, it’s all about being authentic. They use fresh, local ingredients and traditional family recipes to create a menu that showcases the delicious culinary traditions of Palestine.
One of the standout dishes is the Musakhan. It consists of roasted chicken placed on flatbread with caramelised onions, sumac, and pine nuts. This combination creates a delicious mix of sweet and savoury flavours. The Maqluba is a truly remarkable dish that is made by layering rice, roasted cauliflower, chicken, and eggplant that have been caramelised to perfection. It is a dish that truly captivates the senses. The feast ends with the Knafeh, a delicious dessert that features crispy pastry filled with sweet cheese and topped with a fragrant rosewater syrup. It’s the perfect way to end the culinary journey on a sweet note.
7. Gonza Tacos y Tequila:
Get ready for a burst of delicious flavours at Gonza Tacos y Tequila. The place is filled with colourful decorations, lively music, and friendly staff that make you feel like you’re at a Mexican party. Who is the star of the show? Definitely tacos! The menu offers a variety of fillings, including traditional carne asada and more unique options like barbacoa de pulpo (octopus barbacoa), ensuring there’s something for everyone’s taste. The ‘Gonza’ taco is a delicious speciality that features grilled steak, chorizo, onions and cilantro.
It’s a standout on the menu! Why not enhance your meal with a delicious margarita or take the opportunity to try out their wide range of tequilas? You should definitely try the Tacos al Pastor, they’re made with succulent marinated pork and pineapple. The fresh tableside Guacamole is also a must-try. And for a sweet ending to your fiesta, you can’t go wrong with the golden Churros drizzled with chocolate or caramel.
8. Winston’s Grille:
Winston’s Grille is a restaurant serving traditional American comfort cuisine that will take you on a food trip through time. The restaurant creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the perfect stage for its extensive menu. They offer a variety of delicious options, including perfectly grilled steaks, juicy burgers, and fresh seafood. The dining experience is elevated by generous portions and homemade sides, like creamy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans.
The wine list is really impressive and the cocktails are expertly crafted, which adds to the overall charm. Some of the must-try highlights at this restaurant are the Fillet Mignon, which is a dream for meat lovers because of its tender texture, the Lobster Mac and Cheese, which is a pure indulgence, and the Warm Chocolate Cake, which is a decadent dessert that will surely satisfy your sweet tooth.
9. Irregardless Café:
Kickstart your day with fresh and flavorful offerings at Irregardless Café, a neighbourhood favourite celebrated for its breakfast and lunch delights. Legendary sandwiches, piled high with quality ingredients on homemade bread, steal the spotlight. Salads burst with seasonal vegetables and creative dressings, while hearty and comforting soups add to the variety. The casual and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with friendly staff, creates a community vibe. Must-try options include The Reuben, a classic sandwich with tender corned beef, melty Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and creamy dressing, the BLT Salad featuring crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado, and the Tomato Bisque, a creamy and flavorful soup perfect for chilly days.
10. The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar:
For the indecisive foodies seeking the best of both worlds, The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar is a haven that seamlessly blends juicy burgers and fresh sushi. This lively establishment offers melt-in-your-mouth sushi with creative maki rolls and high-quality burgers made from premium beef. The vibrant decor and friendly staff contribute to the fun atmosphere. Must-try selections include the signature Cowfish Roll, a fusion of tuna, salmon, yellowtail, avocado, cream cheese, and crispy fried shrimp tempura, The Cowfish Burger, a classic cheeseburger with a twist featuring wagyu beef, truffle aioli, and crispy onion strings, and a delightful Chocolate Lava Cake, served warm with vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce.
Overall These Restaurants in Raleigh, NC Are Top Rated
Finally, with a varied and lively food culture, Raleigh, North Carolina, shines as a gastronomic paradise. Every restaurant in the city has its own special touch that adds to the food scene. They all focus on creating delicious meals using fresh, local ingredients and are committed to cooking excellence and innovation.
Raleigh has a variety of amazing restaurants to choose from. One of the most famous is Angus Barn Steakhouse, known for their perfectly cooked steaks that are sure to impress. Another great option is Crawford and Son, where you can enjoy delicious seasonal comfort food that will warm your heart. No matter what you’re in the mood for, Raleigh has something to satisfy every taste. Bida Manda brings an authentic touch to the table with its explosion of Thai flavours and a variety of vegetarian options. On the other hand, Saint Jacques French Cuisine takes diners on a journey to Paris with its contemporary take on traditional French dishes.
At Neomonde Mediterranean in Raleigh, you can experience a delicious journey through the Mediterranean. And at Sitti, you can enjoy the authentic flavours of Palestine. Gonza Tacos y Tequila brings a lively Mexican touch to the mix, while Winston’s Grille takes you on a nostalgic journey through classic American comfort food.
Two great dining options to explore are the Irregardless Café and The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar. The Irregardless Café serves up delicious breakfast dishes that are both fresh and flavorful. If you’re in the mood for something different, The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar offers a unique fusion of juicy burgers and delectable sushi. It’s a gastronomic adventure waiting to be enjoyed!
When you go on a foodie adventure in Raleigh, you’re in for a truly memorable experience. Each dish is a delicious celebration of flavour, creativity, and the unique tastes of the region. It really showcases the city’s dedication to providing exceptional dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional favourites or feeling adventurous and want to try something new, these restaurants all play a part in making Raleigh a must-visit place for food lovers.
FAQs
Q1 – What makes Angus Barn Steakhouse special?
Known since 1960 for the best steaks in Raleigh, Angus Barn offers a cozy atmosphere and a vast wine cellar, presenting a delightful dining experience.
Q2 – What’s the standout dish at Crawford and Son?
Crawford and Son’s fried chicken is a must-try, boasting a perfect crispy texture outside and juicy inside, complemented by delectable sides.
Q3 – Why choose Bida Manda for Thai cuisine?
Bida Manda stands out for its authentic Thai flavors, lively atmosphere, and a diverse menu with vegetarian and vegan options.
Q4 – What sets Saint Jacques French Cuisine apart?
Nestled in a strip mall, Saint Jacques is a hidden gem offering classic French dishes with a modern touch, curated by Chef Jean-Pierre using local, seasonal ingredients.
Q5 – What’s special about Neomonde Mediterranean Raleigh?
Neomonde’s Mediterranean journey features standout dishes like Moussaka, Branzino, and Tagliatelle with Short Rib Ragu, showcasing a blend of bright flavors.
Q6 – What defines Sitti’s culinary experience?
Sitti offers an authentic taste of Palestine with dishes like Musakhan, Maqluba, and Knafeh, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes.
Q7 – Why choose Gonza Tacos y Tequila for Mexican cuisine?
Gonza Tacos y Tequila promises a fiesta with colorful decor, lively music, and a star-studded taco menu, including the signature “Gonza” taco.
Q8 – What makes The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar unique?
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar caters to indecisive foodies, combining juicy burgers with fresh sushi, offering signature rolls like the Cowfish Roll and delightful desserts like Chocolate Lava Cake.
