Must-Try Raleigh Restaurants for 2026 (According to Locals)

We asked our followers on Facebook at the end of 2025 what were their favorite Raleigh restaurants for the year and after hundreds of comments and passionate recommendations, a few clear favorites rose to the top as suggestions for places to eat in 2026.

From long-time Raleigh landmarks to newly opened restaurants, including a few of our own personal favorites, if you’re looking for new ideas on where to eat in Raleigh in 2026, this is a solid list to start with. We always love to ask the locals for their recommendations, and Raleigh locals don’t hold back when it comes to food opinions — and we love that about this city!

This list reflects the places locals actually return to again and again — not just what’s trendy. Your 2026 dining inspiration is below, powered by what Raleigh locals loved most in 2025, and a few on our bucket list. It’s easy to see why Raleigh is gaining notoriety as a top foodie destination in North Carolina.

Stanbury

Stanbury is a forever favorite, and one of our personal top 5 restaurants in Raleigh we recommend to others. It’s just such a unique dining experience that’s hard to describe. Locals love Stanbury for its creative seasonal menu, intimate setting, and consistency year after year. Menu changes with seasons and moods. Order small plates to share, or a large plate (their ribeye is fantastic). No reservations!

• Address: 938 N Blount St, Raleigh
• Website: www.stanburyraleigh.com

Ajja

Photo credit: ajjaeats.com

Ajja inspired some of the strongest praise from our community for its bold flavors. The Mediterranean-inspired menu, lively energy, and standout dishes (especially the whole trout) made it unforgettable for many of the diners who recommended it. We are still yet to dine here, but high on our list for this year!

• Address: 209 Bickett Blvd, Raleigh
• Website: www.ajjaeats.com

Sixty Vines

We recently had a fantastic dinner with friends at the new Sixty Vines, a classy “winemaker’s restaurant” in North Hills. Sixty Vines stands for 60 wines on tap from their sustainable tap system, paired with seasonal vineyard-inspired cuisine that is perfect for sharing. They also have cocktails (we recommend the Old Fashioned for 2).

Don’t miss the Truffled Fries (best we’ve had in Raleigh), Wood Roasted Cauliflower, and Fried Chicken + Caviar. We also loved the pizza, pasta, and pork chop. Options for vegetarians and gluten-free. Awesome space and vibes. Great for couples or groups of friends.

• Address: 4000 Center at North Hills Street
• Website: www.sixtyvines.com/locations/raleigh-nc

Glenwood Grill

A reliable neighborhood favorite. A longtime Raleigh staple that locals return to for consistent quality, comfort, and dishes like seafood and grits that never disappoint. We’re excited to be dining here soon with long-time Raleigh friends who don’t stop raving about it.

• Address: 2603 – 151 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
• Website: glenwoodgrill.com

Figulina

One of our personal dining favorites from 2025 and we feel it’s an Italian restaurant worth the hype. Repeatedly called one of the best meals of the year, Figulina’s Italian tradition, Southern creativity, and James Beard recognition firmly place it among Raleigh’s top dining destinations. Located in the Warehouse District.

• Address: 317 S Harrington St, Raleigh
• Website: figulinaraleigh.com

Frank’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant

Photo credit: frankspizzainraleigh.com

Pizza lovers, this one’s for you! A casual classic pizza joint tucked in a strip mall that earned multiple shout-outs. Locals love Frank’s for reliable Italian comfort food and old-school neighborhood appeal. Serving creative pies, sandwiches and Italian specialty dishes.

• Address: 2030 New Bern Ave, Raleigh
• Website: frankspizzainraleigh.com

Brodeto

We dined at Brodeto recently and it lives up to the hype, and the level of service and food you can expect from a Scott Crawford restaurant. Frequently described by others as “hands down amazing” and “spectacular.” Diners praise the Adriatic-inspired menu, elevated seafood, and exceptional overall experience.

• Address: 2201 Iron Works Dr, Raleigh
• Website: brodeto.com

Madre

Vibrant, Flavorful & Crowd-Pleasing. Described as “excellent from beginning to end,” Madre earned praise for bold flavors, fun energy, and dishes people couldn’t stop thinking about. Located in Smokey Hollow and one of our personal favorites – don’t miss their sister property nearby, the Moon Room jazz bar!

• Address: 518 N West St, Raleigh
• Website: www.madreraleigh.com

Winston’s Grille

A longtime favorite for classic Raleigh dining, Winston’s Grille opened its doors in 1986. Popular dishes include the prime rib, shrimp and grits, cashew salmon, prime rib French dip sandwich, and Bananas Foster for dessert (they even make their own homemade ice cream).

• Address: 6401 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh
• Website: winstonsgrille.com

The Peddler Steak House

A true Raleigh tradition, but somewhat of a hidden gem. The Peddler Steak House came up again and again as a nostalgic favorite — classic steakhouse charm with decades of loyal local fans. Charcoal-grilled steaks cut tableside, plus seafood and a salad bar, in a dark, clubby setting.

• Address: 6005 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
• Website: www.peddlersteakhouse.com

J. Betski’s

Photo credit: jbetskis.com

If you know, you know. A beloved downtown spot for many known for its cozy European bistro vibe, hearty German and polish-inspired dishes, and romantic atmosphere. Another spot we have yet to personally dine at, but high priority for this year – I love German style food.

• Address: 1916 Bernard St, Raleigh
• Website: www.jbetskis.com

Peregrine

Photo credit: peregrineraleigh.com

A relatively new Raleigh favorite and one of the most memorable fine-dining experiences mentioned. Peregrine stands out for its refined tasting menu, attention to detail, and special occasion feel. Contemporary American. Globally Inspired.

• Address: 1000 Social St Suite 150, Raleigh
• Website: www.peregrineraleigh.com

Lagana

Burger lovers take note. One of the most mentioned new finds of 2025 for their fantastic burgers. Lagana impressed diners with its food, energy, and “why didn’t we try this sooner?” reactions. I LOVE burgers and can’t wait to personally try this spot. Located next door to one of Raleigh’s best bakeries, Paul & Jack’s.

• Address: 911 N West St Ste. 105, Raleigh
• Website: laganaraleigh.com

Angus Barn

One of Raleigh’s most beloved restaurants annually and always a community favorite, especially during the magical holiday lights display. Angus Barn dominated the responses and remains Raleigh’s go-to for celebratory dinners, classic steaks, impeccable service, and timeless atmosphere. Don’t skip the famous chocolate chess pie! (NOTE: Reservations can be made up to 120 days in advance of the desired date both online and by phone).

• Address: 9401 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
• Website: www.angusbarn.com

Bida Manda

Our personal favorite of the Asian restaurants in Raleigh (we spent one-year living and traveling through Asia, including 3 weeks in Laos). Beloved for its Laotian cuisine, warm hospitality, and inviting atmosphere. Bida Manda remains one of downtown Raleigh’s most trusted and loved restaurants.

• Address: 222 S Blount St, Raleigh
• Website: www.bidamanda.com

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern

The place to dine for life’s special moments. Consistently mentioned for anniversaries and celebrations. Second Empire’s refined Southern cuisine and historic setting continue to make it one of Raleigh’s most elegant dining experiences. Located inside Raleigh’s historic Victorian Dodd-Hinsdale House (built 1879), it’s one of the most romantic dining atmospheres we’ve experienced in the USA. Exceptional food and service!

• Address: 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh
• Website: www.second-empire.com

St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar

Photo credit: strochraleigh.com

Well-known for their New Orleans inspired cuisine, but the menu reflects a decidedly Southern, by way of New Orleans, interpretation of North Carolina seafood — Creole spices and flavors enliven the bounty of Southern farmers, oyster beds, and fishers. Raw and roasted oysters take center stage at one of Raleigh’s best brunch spots, and if traditional shrimp and grits is not what you’re looking for, try their creative Bolo n’ Grits or Gumbo n’ Grits for a unique twist, and order some beignets for dessert. Cliche-free Nola cuisine, Michelin recommended.

• Address: 223 S Wilmington St, Raleigh
• Website: www.strochraleigh.com

Taverna Agora Kitchen & Bar

Loved for its rooftop vibes and Mediterranean flavors. Taverna Agora probably has the best rooftop patio in Raleigh, and fabulous Greek food. Having visited the Greek Islands many times, the best way to be transported to a taste of the Mediterranean lifestyle in Raleigh is to dine at the Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar.

• Address: 326 Hillsborough St, Raleigh
• Website: www.tavernaagora.com

Brewery Bhavana

Photo credit: brewerybhavana.com

Food, atmosphere and that special wow factor. A favorite for locals and visitors. Many commenters shared that Brewery Bhavana is their go-to place to take out-of-town guests — always memorable, always impressive. A unique brewery that combines beer with books and flowers and exceptional food.

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

Barcelona Wine Bar

A popular pick for tapas, shared plates, and a taste of Spain. Barcelona Wine Bar is known for its warm, rustic interiors and dimly lit, intimate ambiance, it’s like stepping into a cozy tapas bar in the Catalonian region of Spain. 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.

Vidrio

Photo credit: vidrioraleigh.com

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 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.

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

Why This List Matters

This roundup is powered entirely by real Raleigh locals — not critics, trends, or algorithms. It reflects where people truly love to eat, celebrate, and bring their friends and family. If you’re hungry for more Raleigh insights:

• 👉 Subscribe to the This Is Raleigh e-mail newsletter.
• 👉 Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for real-time recommendations.