20+ Best International Raleigh Restaurants That Will Take You Away Without A Plane

Traveling the world may not always be possible, but Raleigh’s diverse food scene and multicultural community is here to whisk you away without leaving the dinner table — no passport required! 

From rich Italian trattorias to colorful Latin spots and authentic Middle Eastern lounges, here’s where to find an international dining experience in Raleigh that’s as authentic as it is flavorful. 

With all the tasty international restaurants in Raleigh, it was difficult to curate this list on our own – so we enlisted the help of our Facebook community of Raleigh locals to bring to you this ultimate list. 

Paired with our own personal experiences of having visited 50 countries and sampling flavors from all over the world – we’ve picked restaurants that have an authentic ambiance and true flavors, for that ultimate transportation feel.

Best International Restaurants in Raleigh

1. Taverna Agora – A Taste of Greece in Downtown Raleigh

Taverna Agora brings the flavors and hospitality of Greece to downtown Raleigh. It’s known for its friendly ambiance, welcoming staff, and authentic Mediterranean decor. 

If I ever feel like I need a quick vacation, I head to Taverna Agora. It instantly transports me to memorable moments island hopping from Ios to Santorini to Naxos and back again in my twenties!

We adore the rooftop seating area, which is shaded by green vine leaves wrapping around the trellis, and has classic Greek Statues, twinkle lights, and olive trees in the alcoves.

The ambiance here captures the rustic charm of a Greek taverna, with classic Greek music playing, and some nights there’s even live music and a belly dancer (most notably on First Fridays. If you’re looking for a fun spot to have you dreaming of a getaway to the Greek Isles, this is it.

Must-Try Dishes: Savor the lamb souvlaki, moussaka, spanakopita, and our favorite, the lamb burger. For dessert, the Baklava cheesecake is legendary, and our girls love the baklava rolls (a cinnamon roll twist). Pair it all with a glass of ouzo, retsina (ancient Greek white wine), or blueberry basic lemonade to complete the experience. 

• Address: 326 Hillsborough St
• Website: tavernaagora.com 

2. Vidrio – A Mediterranean Escape

Stepping into Vidrio feels like being whisked away to the Mediterranean coast. With striking, colorful glass decor, high ceilings, and a wall of ceramic plates, the aesthetic alone is enough to transport you to the heart of Southern Europe. 

With attentive service and a menu that reflects the bold flavors of Spain, Greece, and Italy, this is the perfect restaurant for a date night spent wanderlusting over visits to the Med. It’s a favorite restaurant on Glenwood South Ave.

Must-Try Dishes: Start with their artisanal bread with extra virgin olive oil. This is the perfect way to set the tone for the freshness to come! Popular dishes include the hangar steak, beef skewers, and fettuccine. They also have a carefully selected collection of wines from regions across the Mediterranean to transport you further.

• Address: 500 Glenwood Ave
• Website: vidrioraleigh.com 

Discover more Mediterranean restaurants in Raleigh

 3. Bida Manda – Laotian Haven in Downtown Raleigh

Bida Manda is one of our favorite Asian restaurants in Raleigh – it’s truly an oasis of Southeast Asia charm nestled in the heart of downtown. 

It has a warm, serene ambiance, with bamboo decor and soft lighting, which reminds me of a restaurant you might find in Luang Prabang in Laos. 

The name “Bida Manda” means “mother and father” in Sanskrit, and it really does feel like you are being cared for like a long-lost family member when you walk in here – it’s well known for its hospitality and attentive service.

Must-Try Dishes: Try the crispy rice lettuce wraps, pork belly soup, and Laotian-style wings. But my ultimate favorite is the green papaya salad – my daily dish when I lived in Bangkok – topped with Dill and Lime Leaf Sea Bass. Pair these amazing southeast Asian flavors with a bottle of fine wine (the only non-Laotian items on the menu) or if you’re off alcohol, a Thai Iced Tea or Lao Ice Coffee for a true taste of Laos.

• Address: 222 S Blount St
• Website: bidamanda.com 

4. Barcelona Wine Bar – A Taste of Spain

Known for its warm, rustic interiors and dimly lit, intimate ambiance, Barcelona Wine Bar feels like stepping into a cozy tapas bar in the Catalonian region of Spain. 

The wood and brick elements and open bar area create an inviting, romantic setting for sharing small plates and sipping crisp Garnacha Blanca until late.

Don’t miss happy hour, which is 4:00pm-6:00pm Monday – Friday. And you know in North Carolina, happy hour means cheap eats, not cheap drinks.

Must-Try Dishes: The menu features traditional tapas like their ccharcuterie board, patatas bravas, chorizo with sweet and sour figs, and croquetas. Don’t miss out on their bacon wrapped dates, they are divine! Their Spanish paella helped land Barcelona in our list of best seafood restuarants in the Triangle.

• Address: 430 W Martin St
• Website: barcelonawinebar.com

Read more: Sip and Savor: Top Wine Bars in Raleigh (and nearby)

5. Sassool – Middle Eastern Market and Cafe

Sassool is both a market and a café, offering Middle Eastern dishes in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. 

As soon as you walk in, the scent of freshly baked pita bread and exotic spices fills the air, and your eyes are drawn to the colorful displays of Mediterranean groceries, which makes you feel like you’re at a bazaar in Turkey.

The canteen-style dining and menu is typical to what you would find in Western Mediterranean countries like Greece, Turkey and Cyprus. There are also some Lebanese favorites on the menu.

Must-Try Dishes: Try their hummus, it’s the best hummus you’ll find in Raleigh! Some other popular favorites are Mujadara rice & chicken curry, shawarma, tabbouleh, and for the vegetarians, a vegetable lasagna.

The fresh, authentic flavors are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and you can pick up spices or ingredients to recreate the experience at home. You can read our interview with Noelle Scott one of the owners of Sassool.

• Address: 9650 Strickland Rd
• Website: sassool.com 

6. Jolie – French Romance in Raleigh

Jolie is a cozy French bistro that’s perfect for a date night. The intimate lighting, the warm ambiance, and the classic French decor, brings the romance of France to Raleigh. 

Craig and I recently visited on a date night and felt like we’d been instantly transported to our romantic dinner we had in Tours in the Loire Valley.

The menu, created by chef Scott Crawford’s (owner of Crawford & Son on North Person Street), features classic Parisian-style dishes such as French onion soup and escargot, and the service is always top-notch.

What sets this N Person St restaurant apart though is the ambiance. We love the rooftop seating area, which offers outdoor dining by candlelight. It’s the perfect spot for an anniversary or a special evening.

Must-Try Dishes: Savor the escargot, steak frites, and mussels (I could drink that broth) followed by a Videri chocolate cake for dessert (Videri Chocolate Factory is a local chocolatier, for those visiting and unfamiliar with the brand). And if they have duck on the special’s menu (on golden rice!), say Oui!! Pair it all with a fine French wine – every dish feels like a taste of Paris.

• Address: 620 N Person St
• Website: restaurantjolie.com 

Discover more French restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in Raleigh

7. Brodeto – Adriatic Flavors in Raleigh Iron Works

Brodeto, a relatively new Scott Crawford restaurant concept honors the flavors of the Adriatic Sea, showcasing elevated dishes inspired by Croatia and Southern Italy. It feels like stepping into a little European escape right here in Raleigh.

Brodeto’s menu changes seasonally, with a few constants (like the sardine toast below) and ingredients are sourced locally where possibly. Even the custom lidded vessel the brodeto is served in is from Haand pottery in Burlington. An dour favorite local sculpture artist, Thomas Sayre has helped create the earthy, smoky atmosphere of the restaurant with small art pieces and sculptures.

The surprise star of my dining experience? The sardine toast. I could’ve eaten five servings. Our server let me in on a little secret — it’s even better on the gluten-free toast. That GF bread, baked in-house, is truly unrivaled in Raleigh.

Must-Try Dishes: Of course, the sardine toast. Choose a Croatian specialty: • The signature brodeto — a fisherman’s stew with monkfish I absolutely loved or the peka, slow-cooked with Iberico pork collar (comfort food, elevated). Pair it all with a Croatian wine and suddenly you’re dining inside a simulated Adriatic experience — without leaving Raleigh.

• Address: 2201 Iron Works Dr., Suite 137, Raleigh NC 27604
• Website: brodeto.com/

8. Coquette Brasserie – French Bistro Vibes in North Hills

Coquette is a North Hills restaurant that transports you to a classic French bistro with its art deco interiors, charming mosaic tiles, and quaint outdoor seating.

The menu celebrates French classics, such as French onion soup and quiches, making it easy to imagine yourself dining on the streets of Paris. This is also one of our favorite brunch spots in Raleigh, especially if you want smaller plates.

Must-Try Dishes: Enjoy French onion soup to start (very grammable), followed by a seafood crepe or steak sandwich, paired with their mouthwatering truffle fries. Don’t forget to order some of their freshly baked baguettes. To wrap up the meal you will want to have their profiteroles dripping in chocolate sauce! Coquette’s signature cocktails are a treat that’s hard to beat. Try an espresso martini or strawberry bourbon smash to wash your meal down with. (Their espresso martini is the best we’ve had in Raleigh.)

• Address: 4351 The Circle at North Hills St
• Website: coquetteraleigh.com 

9. Centro – Vibrant Mexican Culture in Downtown Raleigh

Centro is one of our favorite lunch spots in Raleigh as it offers quick, fresh Mexican food at an affordable price.

This quirky cantina brings the vibrant colors of Mexico to downtown Raleigh. The lively, art-filled space, complete with Mexican folk-art murals and bright decor, reflects the energy of a traditional Mexican fiesta.

Craig and I only dined here recently, and while we haven’t really explored Mexico, I definitely felt like I was whisked away somewhere unlike Raleigh.

Must-Try Dishes: Don’t miss their fish tacos, mole enchiladas, followed by tres leches for dessert. They really shine with their mole sauce here so make sure to order a dish with it. I had a special chicken with mole, and it was sensational. They also offer a fantastic mezcal selection and some tasty margaritas for a flavorful journey to Mexico.

For an extra treat, head upstairs before or after your meal to Gallo Pelón Mezcaleria, their mezcal bar. Sit in the cute outdoor seating area perfect for sipping Mexican flavors on a warm summer’s day.

• Address: 106 S Wilmington St
• Website: centroraleigh.com 

10. Giorgio Pizza Bar – Italian Trattoria in North Hills

Giorgio Pizza Bar combines the warmth of an Italian trattoria with a modern vibe in the heart of North Hills. 

With rustic decor, an inviting bar where you can watch the chefs at work behind the counter, brings an energy to the room that makes it feel like a chic eatery found in the backstreets of Rome.

The outdoor seating area with the colorful seating is the perfect place to sit on a warm summer’s evening. We took our girls here to get them excited about our upcoming two-week trip to Italy. Now I just want to keep going back to reconnect to the Italian flavors and energy we love so much.

Must-Try Dishes: Their wood-fired pizzas are the highlight of the menu. The calzone is also a favorite of ours. Try the margherita pizza, or eggplant milanese pizza, followed by the rich tiramisu. These dishes will make you feel like you’ve entered a cozy trattoria in Rome.

• Address: 141 Park at N Hills St Suite 112
• Website: giorgiopizzabar.com 

11. The Hibernian Pub – Traditional Irish Pub

With its dark wood furnishings, cozy nooks, and a hearty menu filled with hearty bar food, yep, you’ve landed in Ireland! 

The Hibernian Pub brings the spirit of Ireland to the city of Raleigh, where the only thing happier than the menu are the people stumbling out of it at 2am! It’s been a favorite spot of ours since we first moved to Raleigh in 2004. Since we lived in Dublin – one of our favorite live abroad experiences – we can’t help but visit The Hibernian to reconnect to those memories. Especially on St Patrick’s Day.

Whether you’re gathering for live music or enjoying a pint with friends, the ambiance is lively and inviting.

Must-Try Dishes: Try the fish sandwich, shepherd’s pie, or bangers and mash, paired with a pint of Guinness for a true Irish taste! It may not be typically Irish, but the mac and cheese is also pretty good here. The Hibernian does the best Irish coffee in Raleigh. Ask for Keith, the manager, to make it for you. A true Dubliner who’s won an Irish coffee competition in Boston. You will go back for more!

• Address: 311 Glenwood Ave
• Website: hibernianpub.com 

12. Press Coffee and Crepes – European Cafe Escape

Press Coffee and Crepes is a newly opened, charming European-style cafe in the 400H tower on Hillsborough Street. We’ll admit it, we’re a little addicted to Press. Since opening, we have been about five times! To be fair, we’ve had a lot of visitors, and you can’t help but take them to Raleigh’s best breakfast spot!

It specializes in crepes – sweet and savory – each one an innovative spin on some of the owner’s favorite dishes he’s tried. Thatt right there spells traveler’s heart! And we think right now it has some of the best coffee in the city!

With its cozy, rustic decor and tiled flooring, this cafe wouldn’t look out of place down the side streets of Paris and brings the feel of a small European town café to our bustling city.

It’s the perfect spot to refuel after a leisurely morning walk around Dorothea Dix Park or to catch up with friends for an afternoon treat.

Must-Try Dishes: Their sweet and savory crepes are the star of the show. My favorites are the BBJ&M (bourbon bacon jam & mushrooms with tater tots) and the blueberry lemon curd. For something unique, try their French toast crepe, or hash brown waffles – the perfect breakfast treat! Pair it with a perfectly brewed coffee, and you’ll easily feel transported to a quaint European coffee shop.

• Address: 400 Hillsborough St suite 108
• Website: pressccc.com 

13. Brewery Bhavana – Taste of China & Southeast Asia

Brewery Bhavana is the rare combination of a brewery, bookstore, flower shop, and dim sum restaurant. The decor is inspired by the rich, cultural heritage of China and Southeast Asia with a modern flare. 

The softly lit, airy space is lined with books, warm lighting, and vibrant acer trees that creates a serene and enchanting ambiance reminiscent of a peaceful Asian garden.

Must-Try Dishes: The menu has many dim sum favorites, from soup dumplings to pork bao to scallion pancakes – signature dim sum dishes are crafted with authentic techniques. The flavors are delicate yet deeply satisfying, and their in-house craft beers pair perfectly with the Asian-inspired dishes.

• Address: 218 S Blount St
• Website: brewerybhavana.com 

14. Little Portugal – Authentic Portuguese Flavors in Fuquay-Varina

Located a little out of Raleigh in the town of Fuquay-Varina, Little Portugal is the best authentic Portuguese restaurant in North Carolina, offering a cozy atmosphere that feels like dining in a Lisbon eatery. 

From the traditional Portuguese tiling on the bar to the warm, welcoming vibe, this spot could easily make you feel like you’ve landed in the Algarve.

Must-Try Dishes: Try the pastel de chaves (beef puff), peixe frito sand (fried codfish sandwich), and pasteis de nata (custard tarts) for dessert. Their potato salad is the perfect side dish to pair with everything.

• Address: 736 N Main St, Fuquay-Varina
• Website: littleportugalnc.com 

15. J. Betski’s – Eastern European Delight

J. Betski’s brings Eastern Europe to Raleigh with a German and Polish inspired menu, specially made for fans of hearty European fare. The industrial-style interior with dark wood accents feels traditionally Eastern European, but with a modern twist. 

They use fresh, locally sourced ingredients and the prices are reasonable. It’s certainly a hidden gem in the Triangle!

Must-Try Dishes: Sample the mushroom pierogies, bratwurst, and schnitzel, all paired perfectly with German beers or Polish vodkas.

• Address: 1916 Bernard St
• Website: jbetskis.com 

16. Royal India – An Indian Escape on Capital Blvd

Royal India has been serving up authentic Indian cuisine since the 90s, and offers both a flavorful experience and visual experience.

The decor is old world, and probably hasn’t been updated much since it opened, but that’s all part of the charm. We love the vintage music videos on the projector screens, the ornate wooden dividers, and the round tables with white linen table cloths – it’s exactly the kind of vibe you’d expect in India.

As well as this, the ambiance is warm and welcoming, and the staff are always smiley and friendly. 

Must-Try Dishes: Try the lentil dumplings, goat masala, and tandoori lamb chops. If you’re sharing or can’t decide what to have, get the royal feast and sample several items!

• Address: 3901 Capital Blvd
• Website: royalindiaraleigh.com 

See more Indian restaurants in Raleigh the locals love

17. Dos Taquitos – A Festive Mexican Getaway

Another Mexican restaurant in Raleigh worth checking out is Dos Taquitos, which is like a fiesta in culinary form, with its colorful walls, eclectic decorations, and upbeat energy. 

Every inch of the place is adorned with Mexican art, memorabilia and knick knacks, giving it the look and feel of a traditional cantina in a city like Oaxaca. I love how they have colorful hammocks hanging from the ceiling and there’s a Day of the Dead skeleton sitting in the corner. It’s almost like an art installation as well as a restaurant!

Must-Try Dishes: Their steak tacos, empanadas, and guacamole are must-tries. Pair your meal with a margarita for the ultimate escape to Mexico.

• Address: 6101 Glenwood Ave
• Website: dostaquitosraleigh.com 

18. The Dominican Restaurant – Caribbean Flavors in Raleigh

With its lively atmosphere and authentic Caribbean dishes, The Dominican Restaurant brings the warmth and spice of the Dominican Republic to Raleigh. 

The decor is a combination of inviting and relaxing. We love the hand-painted mural inside, and the outdoor seating area under the gazebos is perfect for a special occasion.

They have a great playlist if you enjoy listening to music while you eat, which brings a lively atmosphere to the place. From the looks of their Instagram they have fun live music nights!

Must-Try Dishes: Savor the empanadas or stewed chicken. Complete your meal with a tropical cocktail like a mojito or pina colada for the full experience.

• Address: 3601 Capital Blvd STE 107
• Website: drfoodnc.com 

19. Azitra – Indian Elegance and Comfort

Azitra is an elegant and modern Indian restaurant with a stylish interior that’s perfect for enjoying rich, comforting Indian flavors. 

The sleek decor and ambient lighting, paired with plush leather seats, create a relaxed atmosphere. The outdoor seating area under the canopies of our famous oak trees next to the water feature is the perfect place for a summer’s evening.

Must-Try Dishes: Don’t miss their gobi manchurian, lamb rogan josh, and garlic naan. They also have a wide selection of vegan options and delicious desserts.

• Address: 8411 Brier Creek Pkwy
• Website: azitra.us

20. Chido Taco – Mexican Street Food Flair

Chido Taco has some of the best tacos in Raleigh! This casual spot captures the essence of Mexican street food with its vibrant and fun atmosphere. It’s a favorite of ours and we love how they have several locations around Wake County to help satiate our taco cravings!

It’s a small restaurant with a handful of tables inside, but it has a spacious outdoor dining area too. The bright colors, tiled walls, and verdant plants, make it feel like a local taco stand in Mexico, perfect for a quick and tasty bite.

Must-Try Dishes: Try the quesabirria (my daughter and I always order these!), steak tortas, fish tacos, and churros for dessert. A cold Jarritos or margarita completes the street food experience.

• Address: 2330 Bale St #100
• Website: chidotaco.com 

21. Ajja – Mediterranean Journey Through Flavors

Ajja is celebrated for its fresh Mediterranean flavors and charming ambiance. The restaurant’s laid-back, yet stylish atmosphere is the perfect setting for a date night, or evening out with friends.

We love the geometric wallpapers, the bar seating, and the hanging plants above the outdoor seating area, making you feel like you’ve landed in a tavern in Malta or Morocco.

They also often have live music and market days.

Must-Try Dishes: Enjoy their warm Moroccan hummus, lamb croquettes, or for something more filling, white fried trout. Ajja’s mango and saffron posset for dessert is the perfect way to round off the Mediterranean flavors.

• Address: 209 Bickett Blvd
• Website: ajjaeats.com 

22. Mulino – An Italian Mediterranean Getaway in Downtown Raleigh

One of our favorite restaurants with outdoor seating is Mulino. We love the lush greenery, industrial lighting, and pool, which makes it feel like a hidden Mediterranean oasis. 

The ambiance on the inside is also warm and inviting, with tiled bar areas, and open brick walls. It’s the perfect modern setting for enjoying the flavors of the Mediterranean.

Must-Try Dishes: Try the tagliatelle bolognese, chicken pesto pizza, and lamb shank. It also has a large wine selection and a curated list of specialty cocktails to enhance the Mediterranean vibe.

• Address: 309 N Dawson St 
• Website: mulinoraleigh.com 

23. Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine – A Journey to Central Asia

Silk Road Uzbek Cuisine invites diners on a journey through Central Asia and the Middle East with its warm ambiance and traditional Uzbek dishes.

The decor and hospitality of this Cary restaurant evokes the charm of Uzbek culture, making it a delightful escape from the everyday. Diners say while the interior is small, the food portions are huge and tasty.

Must-Try Dishes: Indulge in the plov (Uzbek pilaf), manti (steamed dumplings), and samsa (savory pastries). Don’t forget to try the refreshing green tea, a staple of Uzbek dining traditions, and close out the meal with a traditional honey cake.

• Address: 4224 NW Cary Pkwy, Cary
• Website: silkroaduzbekcuisine4224.com

24. Madre

Absolutely! Here’s a refined paragraph to include Madre in your list of the best international restaurants in Raleigh:

For an elevated Spanish and Mediterranean dining experience, Madre in Smoky Hollow is a must-visit. This stylish yet inviting restaurant, co-owned by Tyler Helikson (founder of Happy + Hale), delivers a tapas-style menu inspired by the warmth of home-cooked meals and the communal dining traditions of the Mediterranean.

While its foundation is Spanish cuisine, Madre’s menu ventures beyond borders, incorporating flavors from across the region with expertly crafted small and large plates, an impressive wine selection, and signature cocktails.

The sophisticated ambiance—with blown glass lamps, backlit pottery, and an industrial-chic design—creates the perfect setting for a romantic date night, group gathering, or special occasion.

Whether you’re savoring trout with parsley cream, roasted caulflower with green goddess sauce, polenta with pork ragout, or a decadent berry flan, Madre delivers an unforgettable international dining experience in the heart of Raleigh.

Read our full review of our date night at Madre followed by jazz at the Moon Room.

• Address: 518 N. West Street, Raleigh, NC 27603
• Website: https://www.madreraleigh.com/

Take a Culinary Journey Without Leaving Raleigh

These international restaurants in Raleigh are your ticket to exploring international cuisines and ambiances without the need for flights or jet lag. 

Whether you’re craving Mediterranean tapas, spicy Asian street food, or the elegance of a French bistro, there’s a local spot that will let you experience it all. 

So, get your elasticated waistbands ready, and prepare for a night (or day!) of culinary adventure right here in Raleigh! Check out this list of favorite places to eat in Raleigh this year as voted by locals. (and favorite places to drink)