Best Places to Eat Near the Lenovo Center in Raleigh

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If you’re in town for a Carolina Hurricanes game, an NC State basketball game, or a concert at the Lenovo Center then you might be looking to get a bite to eat before the action starts. We’ve got you covered!

Aerial photo of an indoor hockey arena, PNC Arena in Raleigh, NC
Lenovo Center

Being slightly isolated and roughly halfway between downtown Raleigh and the town of Cary, there are not a huge number of places to eat within walking distance of the Lenovo Center (though there are some), but if you hop in your car, you will find a bunch of tasty options within a 10-15 minute drive.

We put the question out to our Raleigh community and asked them, “What’s the best place to eat near the Lenovo Center?” and the following are what the locals came back with, in order of closest to farthest away (by travel time).

The Local

Couple having drinks at a bar

If you’ve left it too late to plan, then take a walk around the corner from Lenovo to The Local, an American sports bar and grill with an easy-going atmosphere. Aptly named, this community-focused and laid-back hangout combines a casual sports bar vibe with the usual pub grub menu. 

Think juicy burgers, loaded nachos, and crispy chicken wings, with rotating craft beers on tap, plenty of TVs so you won’t miss a play, and a roomy dining space with either booth seating for intimate dining or bar stools for those who don’t mind being social. The Local was recently bought by the Carolina Hurricanes and is a solid pre-game place to eat.

Bru’s Public House

Another top spot within walking distance of the Lenovo Center is Bru’s Public House, which comes highly rated for its pizzas and burgers. Bru’s hits that sweet spot between a relaxed pub hangout and an elevated dining room. It’s the kind of place where you can swing by for lunch or linger over dinner and cocktails, surrounded by warm exposed brick and wooden decor — it’s a vibe that’s comfortable without trying too hard. 

Off the menu, the crowd-pleasers are Bru’s Burger — two patties, American cheese, bacon, Bru’s House sauce, and served on a pretzel bun. Or if you’re after something to share, opt for the Poutine — House fries with poutine gravy and cheese curds. Pair that with a side of Crispy Fried Brussels Sprouts or Truffle Fries, and you’re on to a winning night out.

Whether you’re post-game or pre-game, Bru’s is a great spot to hang out with friends. Our friend, Curt goes here all the time before a Hurricanes game, or to even watch the game. He loves it and we plan to get there this season!

Spring Rolls, Raleigh

If you fancy something a little less carb-heavy, then Spring Rolls is a Pan-Asian restaurant next door to Bru’s Public House that gets a thumbs up from the Raleigh community. The vibe is casual and comfortable — great for watching a game thanks to the many flatscreens around. 

The menu is an eclectic mix of Asian cuisine, from sushi to Szechuan cuisine, so no matter what you’re craving, there’s something for everyone. The General Tso Chicken never fails to impress.

Ole Time Barbecue

Barbecue ribs and pork.

A great place to eat if you’re hankering for that no-frills, straight-up Carolina barbecue goodness is Ole Time Barbecue on Hillsborough St. Before you even walk in, you know you’re in the right place. The bright, yellow-roofed diner looks like your classic retro southern bbq joint you’d see in a movie — small, homey, walls lined with photos and shelves full of pig memorabilia, and the aroma of smoked pork hanging in the air.

The BBQ Pork Plate is a go-to — smoky, tangy, juicy with that classic vinegar punch. Don’t pass up a bowl of Brunswick Stew when you’re here, which is noted to be authentic and flavorful. On the side game: hush puppies, mac-and-cheese, boiled cabbage, collards — all the classic homestyle sides.

People dining in a bbq restaurant.
Old school bbq joint

The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly, and loud in just the right way, especially during lunch. It’s definitely worth the wait during peak times — the food moves fast, the portions are generous, and the vibes are unmistakably Raleigh. We’ve eaten here before and can claim it as one of the best places in Raleigh for BBQ – old style!

The Mill

We have not personally been to The Mill, yet, but we’ve heard great things about this American-style diner in Old Village Raleigh. It has that classic tavern charm but with upscale comfort. The space feels warm and inviting, with a cozy bar area, warm hanging bubble lights, and touches of rustic furniture paired with modern polish. 

Their menu leans into elevated American fare, with stand-out dishes including Shrimp and Grits, Rye-Crusted Salmon, and Braised Beef Short Rib. For lighter or shareable fare, the house-made Onion Rings and Fried Biscuits are solid choices. We know the marketing team and have the insider scoop that it’s a hotspot for Carolina game day.

Gym Tacos 2

gym taco raleigh 3

If you’re craving bold, authentic Mexican street food, especially good tacos and burritos, a short drive away on Hillsborough Street is Gym Tacos 2, which delivers exactly that. 

It’s one of our favorite spots for tacos in Raleigh — the Al Pastor, Tostada, and Shrimp Tacos are fan favorites, each packed with flavor and made with fresh tortillas. The Surf and Turf Burritos and Gringas are also highly rated. The vibe is casual, energetic, and welcoming, with both indoor and outdoor seating.

Neomonde Mediterranean Restaurant, Raleigh 

Lamb and chicken kebabs on scewers at Neomonde in Raleigh

For delicious Mediterranean and Lebanese, Neomonde is a warm and welcoming cafeteria-style restaurant with a market and deli attached. This long-running restaurant has been serving Raleigh for over 50 years, and offers both indoor and patio seating, and has a bright food case packed with tasty options to choose from.

Some notable dishes are the Neomonde Mezza, which plates together tabouli, hummus, baba ghanouj, grape leaves, labneh, EVOO, olives, and pita — all the essentials that go well together. 

For something more hearty, the Chicken Shawarma Pita Pocket is a classic: marinated meat, shaved thin, and served with your choice of two sides, pita, and baklava. Vegetarians and vegans are well served, too. Some go-to options include the Falafel, Roasted-Veggie Pita Pocket, plus a huge list of salads and sides. And don’t skip dessert. The baklava (walnut or pistachio) is the perfect sweet, flaky finish.

Spirits Pub & Grub

A follower on Instagram informed us that Spirits Pub & Grub in Cary needed to be on this list of best places to eat near Lenovo Center, especially before a Canes game, as it’s packed with fans. Spirits serves up a wide variety of scratch-kitchen fare (think burgers, wings, mac & cheese, fish & chips, pulled-pork sandwiches, etc.), plus a solid drink selection and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

It’s about a short drive from the Lenovo Center (roughly 10 minutes, depending on traffic) — just enough time to grab a bite without feeling rushed. The vibe is casual, warm and communal: plenty of booths or bar seating, good for groups or solo fans, and the décor gives you that classic pub feel with some modern touches.

This would also be a good spot to eat before a soccer game at WakeMed Soccer Park as it’s very close.

Woody’s Sports Tavern, Cary

wings from woodys market

If you’re visiting from the Cary side, you’ll find a relaxed bar vibe at Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill on Chapel Hill Road. The walls are lined with TVs, there’s neon signs buzzing from every spare wall space, and the energy gets especially good when there’s a game on. You may well meet other Carolina Hurricane fans having their pre-game meals here. 

The menu leans into typical pub grub food. Think chicken wings cooked fresh to order, cheesesteak-style subs, huge burgers, and a selection of starters made for sharing. The Hot Wings get a shout-out for being some of the best wings in the Triangle. They also do a great selection of sides like fries, tots, or onion rings, but the wings and burgers are definitely the headliners. 

The Village Deli (Lake Boone Trail)

A cozy spot that feels like dining in your grandmother’s kitchen, The Village Deli near the trailhead to the Lake Boone Trail is where everything feels homemade – from the menu to the furniture. The vibe is warm and casual, with plenty of rustic touches, and the food is hearty and comforting. 

The Fried Green Tomato BLT is comfort food at its finest, and since you’re in North Carolina, of course, you should order a side of Sweet Potato Fries to go with it. Known for its sandwiches, the Chilly Cheese Steak and the Reuben are standouts, full of flavor and texture. 

Bella Monica 

Bella Monica is a cozy family‑owned Italian restaurant in Raleigh that serves up heartfelt Italian American classics like pizzas, lasagna, and pasta dishes. This beloved trattoria, celebrating over 25 years of service in Raleigh, has a warm and rustic ambiance.

Standout dishes include the Baked Ziti and Eggplant Rollatini, and people rave about the Flatbread Pizzas. Don’t forget to end your meal with one of its renowned desserts, such as the Flourless Chocolate Cake or Gluten-Free Tiramisu.

Remington Grill, Cary 

Another great option in Cary for those craving hearty American comfort food is Remington Grill. This cowboy-style diner has booth seating and meals served on trays, perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed environment.

The menu boasts a variety of mouthwatering options, including the Dodge City Cheesesteak, featuring your choice of beef or chicken with sautéed mushrooms, peppers, onions, and cheese, all served on a toasted hoagie roll, or the Sioux City Sub, which comes with sliced beef brisket. People complement the Hand-Cut Fries, which are best served with the Fry Sauce for dipping.

SAAP, Downtown Cary

bowl of Khao Poon Gai at saap cary
Khao Poon Gai

If you’re looking for something a bit more romantic, we love going to SAAP in downtown Cary on a date night. SAAP serves up authentic Laotian cuisine, helmed by Chef Lon Bounsanga, formerly of Brewery Bhavana and Bida Manda, who, together with his team, prepares artfully balanced and traditional Laotian dishes.

Start with the Crispy Coconut Rice Lettuce Wraps / Nam Khao, a delightful combination of textures and flavors, or the Papaya Salad, a classic dish that captures the essence of Southeast Asian cuisine. The Pad Lao / Khua Mee is a standout, featuring caramelized fried noodles with your choice of protein, topped with an egg crepe and fresh herbs. Feeling adventurous? Try the Ube-Colada!

Dos Taquitos

plate of mexican food
Photo Credit: Dis Taquitos

Another vibrant Mexican option is Dos Taquitos which is well known for its lively atmosphere, complete with eclectic and colorful décor and a whimsical toy train delivering queso to your table. The menu is as bold as the tapestry, with traditional dishes such as Enchiladas de Puebla standing out with their trio of tortillas — one filled with grilled chicken and tomatillo sauce, another with black beans and Mexican cream, and the third with steak and chipotle sauce. 

For a hearty option, the Steak Tacos will come back to you in your dreams time and time again, and the Mis Garnachas is a crowd-pleaser. Make sure to pair your meal with a margarita — they are said to be some of the best in the Triangle.

Istanbul Restaurant, Cary

Turkish food on a plate.

Over in Cary, Istanbul Restaurant offers an authentic Turkish-Mediterranean dining experience, with a menu brimming with traditional, rich dishes, including grilled meats and mezes. For the super hungry, look at the Super Mixed Grill, a hearty platter featuring lamb shish, Adana kebab, and chicken Adana, accompanied by rice, salad, yogurt, garlic sauce, and lavash bread. 

Another favorite is the Adana Kebab, known for its bold spices and tender texture, or if you prefer a lighter option, the Lahmacun, often referred to as Turkish pizza, is a good choice. If you’re looking for something to share, the Cold Mix has a refreshing assortment of hummus, tabbouleh, haydari, ezme salad, and stuffed grape leaves. Yum!

Bosphorus Cary

Turkish meat and salad.

Another Turkish option is Bosphorus Restaurant in Cary, which also offers an authentic taste of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine.

Given the variety of tasty options, you can’t go wrong with the Bosphorus Meze Platter. This platter comes with a delightful assortment of hummus, baba ghanoush, ezme, tabbouleh, eggplant salad, cucumber dip, and stuffed grape leaves, all served with freshly baked pide bread. Pair it with an ice-cold Ayran, a salty yoghurt drink unique to the Mediterranean.

We love that this is a BYOB restaurant for wine, which is the traditional custom in Turkey, and the bread and oil are amazing. No reservations necessary!

Lynnwood Grill and Brewing Concern

Lynwood Grille, Glenwood Ave

Lynnwood Grill & Brewing Concern is one of the top breweries in Raleigh and is the place to go for craft beer paired with hearty American fare. Start things off with a portion of the Pickle Chips, thinly sliced and fried to a crispy perfection, served with a side of ranch dressing. For a heartier appetizer, the Buffalo Strips in raspberry habanero sauce offer a sweet and spicy kick. 

Although known for its wings and burgers, there’s also a decent salad selection. The Laura’s Orange and Blue Salad, featuring mandarin oranges, blue cheese crumbles, and pecans, is a refreshing option. 

There are also pizzas, burgers, calzones, and stuffed mushrooms. Of course, pair it with one of the award-winning craft beers brewed on-site. This is a great place for those in northwest Raleigh heading to Lenovo and can stop in on the way!

Gussie’s

couple at gussies
gussies

We’re big fans of this cozy neighborhood bar with great burgers and shareables. Gussie’s is just off Hillsborough St on the intersection with Morgan Street, so it is the furthest away from the Lenovo Center, but well worth the 15-minute drive. Gussie’s combines the charm of a cozy pub with a modern, industrial look. We love the bar area with leather bar stools and brown tiles.

The menu features shareable small plates and hearty entrees, and we always go back for their Smash Burgers, a juicy combination of ground sirloin patties with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and animal sauce on a potato bun, reminiscent of In-N-Out’s style. Pair it with the Animal Fries, crispy and seasoned to perfection, or the Crispy Brussels Sprouts to add a bit of Southern comfort to the plate.

Gussie’s is also one of our favorite places to grab a craft cocktail. They also have a delicious house-made orange cream soda and local beers on tap. 

Inside the Lenovo Center

Two woman ordering beer inside a sports arena.

If you’ve run out of time to eat before an event, don’t fret. Unlike many venues and sports arenas, the confectionery options inside the Lenovo Center are not half bad. I actually like how they have a lot of local businesses operating there now, rather than huge chain brands whose quality never matches the price. 

With 50 brands to choose from – from fine dining to burger vans – the Raleigh locals have separated the wheat from the chaff and come forward with their favorite vendors inside the Lenovo Center: 

Alpaca Peruvian Chicken

Section 301 (stand) and Section 110 (cart). Alpaca is your best bet for something healthy and guilt-free. It opened in 2007 in the Raleigh area by a veteran minority who wanted to showcase healthy Peruvian food to the people of North Carolina.

Family-owned and operated, the mission is simple – offer food that’s flavor-rich, happy, and healthy. Every plate is created using all-natural ingredients without hormones or FDA allergens. 

It serves fresh salads and salad bowls, as well as yuca fries, horchata, and more. I always get the chicken Quinoa Fresh Salad with yuca and cranberries. So yummy!

The BBQ Lab

Tray filled with BBQ meats.
The BBQ Lab

Priority Lounges at Sections 105 and 120. The BBQ Lab is one of our favorite places to eat BBQ in Raleigh. It rose to fame after it appeared on the Food Network’s TV Show, Chopped: Grill Masters. It was founded in 2017 by Jerry L. Stephenson, Jr., and quickly became a local favorite due to Jerry’s award-winning BBQ sauce. 

The Lab is a unique, scientific take on the traditional North Carolina BBQ. They smoke their meat the traditional way, so they often sell out early. Those visiting the Lenovo Center can taste this award-winning BBQ, but at a price, since it’s only available for Priority Lounge guests. If you do really want to try The BBQ Lab, though, they have their flagship store in North Hills.

Gonza Tacos y Tequila

People lined up to order Mexican food inside a sports arena.

Section 112 (stand) and Section 130 (cart). For a fresh take on Colombian Mexican cuisine, Gonza Tacos y Tequila is an award-winning restaurant with three restaurants in the Triangle, as well as a stand and cart at the Lenovo Center. It has a long list of accolades under its belt, including winning the WRAL Out and About Voter’s Choice six years in a row in the “best tacos” category.

Two Roosters Ice Cream

two roosters ice cream at lenovo

Section 116 (stand) and Section 325 (cart). If you’ve saved room for dessert, head to Two Roosters Ice Cream, an award-winning handcrafted ice cream shop hailing from our very own City of Oaks. All their ice creams are made from products sourced in North Carolina.

It began in an old truck, and now has six brick-and-mortar locations across The Triangle, as well as stands and carts inside the Lenovo Center and Durham Bulls Athletic Park.

North Carolina BBQ Company

Sections 107, 123, 305, and 326. Can you get any more North Carolinian than sinking your teeth into an NC State BBQ whilst watching a hockey game? I doubt it! The NC BBQ Company is the in-house BBQ stand by Lenovo Center and has multiple carts inside the arena. 

It’s popular for its pulled BBQ sandwich with slaw, as well as BBQ Nachos. They use the same sauce as the aforementioned BBQ Lab, so if you don’t have priority access, you can still enjoy the same great taste as the VIPs.

Tailgating

couple tailgating at lenovo center before hurricanes game

Those visiting for hockey games will be pleased to know that tailgating is allowed at the Lenovo Center. You can bring your own food, drinks, and fire up a barbecue in the parking lot before a game and join the frivolities with other sports fans.

We have more content to help you with this Guide to Lenovo Center (Formerly PNC Arena) and 7 Best Hotels Near Lenovo Center in Raleigh.

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