50 Favorite Raleigh Places to Eat in 2025 (Voted by Locals)

Raleigh’s is a city that’s forever expanding, and every year it seems to explode with new fun eateries, restaurants, fine dining and places to eat – more thanks to many planned developments over the past several years opening up.

A decade ago, we struggled to find anything above a few long time favorites, now it’s impossible to experience them all.

With so many new restaurants joining our community, it can be hard to know if these newbies are worth checking out, and whether our old-time favorites are still on top.

So, if you’re searching for places to eat in Raleigh, we asked our amazing Facebook and Instagram communities to share their favorite restaurants that they loved in 2024, so you can visit the places that the locals love.

From cozy neighborhood gems to upscale dining experiences, the responses highlighted just how incredible our local food scene is. Of course, we couldn’t resist adding some of our own favorites to the mix!

Whether you’re craving bold global flavors, comforting Southern classics, or a show-stopping brunch, this curated list of Raleigh’s best restaurants will have you planning your next meal in no time.

And if you missed out on sharing, there’s a comment section at the bottom. Tell us your favorite and why, and any special dishes you loved?

Global Flavors & Unique Experiences

1. Ajja
   Location: 209 Bickett Blvd, Raleigh
   Description: A vibrant Mediterranean-inspired eatery with creative dishes, innovative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere.
   Why it’s liked: Loved for its delightful menu, creative cocktails, impeccable service, and fun vibes. Received the most rave reviews from our community comparing it to high-end spots like Garland, owner Chef Cheetie’s former much-loved and missed downtown restaurant. Even foodies from San Francisco gave it high praise. All I know is we got to get here in 2025!
2. Saap (our pick)
   Location: 370 S Walker St Suite 100, Cary
   Description: A casual yet authentic Laotian restaurant offering a menu full of vibrant, flavorful dishes inspired by traditional cuisine.
   Why it’s liked: A standout for its bold and fresh flavors, making it a go-to spot for Southeast Asian food lovers in Cary. The Khao Poon Gai is a standout and the mango sticky rice exactly how I liked eating it in Thailand We enjoyed a dinner here with our visiting friends from Scottsdale. (you can read more in our sophisticated 2-day Raleigh itinerary)
3. Tamasha Modern Indian (our pick)
   Location: 4200 Six Forks Rd Suite # 130, Raleigh, NC 27609
   Description: An upscale Indian restaurant offering a fusion of traditional and modern dishes in a chic setting. Tamasha made the list of “50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America” by OpenTable and People Magazine
   Why it’s liked: Praised for being an incredible dining experience with standout Indian dishes representing different cuisines across India. The south Indian Byadgi chilli shrimps are a must as is the yellow tail red snapper coastal curry. Read more in our elevated 48 hour itinerary for North Hills.
4. Bida Manda (always our pick)
   Location: 222 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC.
   Description: A Southeast Asian restaurant serving authentic Laotian cuisine in a beautifully designed downtown space.
   Why it’s liked: Bida Manda is one of our favorite restaurants in Downtown Raleigh and is the most authentic Southeast Asian cuisine we’ve found in the Triangle. (we lived in Bangkok and have traveled through Laos so we know!) The Papaya Salad with Crispy Dill and Lemongrass Trout, is one of my favorite dishes on the menu.
5. Lime and Lemon Indian Grill & Bar
   Location: 105 Friendly Dr #101, Raleigh
   Description: A contemporary Indian grill and bar offering bold, flavorful dishes and is a welcome inclusion in the Hillsborough St restaurant scene.
   Why it’s liked: A favorite for Indian food with bold and rich flavors.
6. Coquette
   Location: 4351 The Circle at North Hills St, Raleigh
   Description: A French bistro with a chic interior and a menu full of flavorful dishes.
   Why it’s liked: A favorite for its French dishes like the chocolate profiteroles, French onion soup, seafood crepe, and we think, the best espresso martinis in Raleigh Read more in our review of Coquette
7. O-Ku Sushi
   Location: 411 W Hargett St, Raleigh
   Description: A modern Asian fusion restaurant with a focus on unique ingredients and sophisticated presentations from petite plates to sushi specialties to contemporary robata-style dishes.
   Why it’s liked: Praised for its innovative fusion dishes and shareable plates. I dined here with a sushi aficionado who said it was exceptional here.
8. East End Bistrot
   Location: 2020 Progress Ct suite 110, Raleigh
   Description: A sophisticated French bistro in Raleigh with an elegant menu and exceptional butter-forward dishes.
   Why it’s liked: Its romantic yet playful elegant atmosphere and use of sustainable produce Some items that fly off the menu are the ribeye steak, gin-cured salmon, and guava cheesecake for dessert.
9. Brodeto
   Location: 2201 Iron Works Dr suite 137, Raleigh
   Description: This new Raleigh restaurant by renowned Chef Scott Crawford pays homage to the Adriatic Sea, spotlighting the culinary traditions of Southern Italy and Croatia.
   Why it’s liked: Praised for its upscale meals and stylish bar seating and dishes like black risotto with baby octopus and squid, the sardine toast, and marinated lamb chops.
10. Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie
    Location: 518 Pershing Rd, Raleigh
    Description: A family-friendly brewery and brasserie, European Bistro inspired fare with a North Carolina twist to complement their Belgian inspired craft beers.
    Why it’s liked: Loved for its diverse menu, including standout dishes like shrimp and grits, light and healthy Turkish eggs, and the perfectly prepared Bistro plate with chicken cutlet. A great spot for brunch or a casual outing with family and friends. Their wild mushroom polenta was a standout dish of the year for me.

Don’t miss these other international restaurants in Raleigh

Italian Excellence

11. Gravy
    Location: 135 S Wilmington St, Raleigh
    Description: A downtown Italian American spot known for its hearty pasta dishes and casual charm. Gravy has a lovely outdoor seating area.
    Why it’s liked: A staple for Italian comfort food in downtown Raleigh at reasonable prices. People love the chicken parm, garlic knots on the side, and spaghetti and meatballs.
12. Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar
    Location: 309 N Dawson St, Raleigh
    Description: An upscale Italian eatery Praised for its upscale ambiance and exceptional Italian offerings. IT feels casual but can also be a great spot for a date night.
    Why it’s liked: a stunning patio setting beside a pool locals can’t get enough of. Dishes to love include tagliatelle bolognese, chicken pesto pizza, and lamb shank. For dessert, the creme brulee is always a crowd-pleaser.
13. Vivace
    Location: 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh
    Description: A refined Italian restaurant in North Hills offering a sleek ambiance and modern takes on classic dishes.
    Why it’s liked: Consistently good Italian food and a favorite for many locals. Some of our favorite items on the menu are the Black Pepper Spaghetti, Bolognese Pappardelle, Crispy Brussel Sprouts, and Steamed Pei Mussels. And their mini desserts are the perfect way to end a fulfilling meal.
14. Figulina
    Location: 317 S Harrington St, Raleigh
    Description: An Italian gem specializing in fresh, made-from-scratch pasta with inventive flavor combinations.
    Why it’s liked: Locals raved about the gemelli with mustard green and hazelnut pesto. Any lover of Italy will run to their Aperitivo Hour on weekday evenings (Tuesday-Thursday from 5:00-6:30), where snacks and drinks set the tone for a relaxed night out
15. Cucciolo Terrazza (our pick)
    Location: 4200 Six Forks Rd Suite 100, Raleigh
    Description: An Italian-inspired restaurant with a stylish, modern ambiance, serving elevated dishes with authentic flavors.
    Why it’s liked: Upscale, yet casual, and the staff is attentive and friendly. The menu is small by design, with rotating dishes based on seasonal produce – they are particularly well known for their pasta dishes. We enjoyed the Braised Octopus and Vongole Pasta, and you must try the tiramisu for dessert!
16. Flour and Barrel
    Location: 400 West North Street Raleigh
    Description: A contemporary new Raleigh restaurant blending global influences with local ingredients, offering an innovative menu in a chic downtown setting.
    Why it’s liked: Known for its creative culinary approach and a fresh, dynamic atmosphere focused on small plates and communal gatherings. Praise was also given for their cocktails.

Here are other Italian restaurants in Raleigh to love.

Casual Comforts & Local Favorites

17. Irregardless Café (our pick)
    Location: 901 W Morgan St, Raleigh
    Description: A beloved Raleigh institution since 1975 offering homely, wholesome meals in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with a focus on catering to gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets.
    Why it’s liked: A local favorite for its inclusive menu and standout dishes for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Their crispy polenta frites are delicious and the gluten-free chicken and waffles was one of my favorite dishes for the year!
18. NoFo @the Pig, Five Points (our pick)
    Location: 2014 Fairview Rd, Raleigh (Five Points neighborhood)
    Description: A unique and iconic Raleigh restaurant located inside a former Piggly Wiggly store, offering a blend of Southern comfort food and a quirky shopping experience.
    Why it’s liked: Loved for its Southern comfort meals and its one-of-a-kind setting. You can’t miss their warmed pimento cheese dip with crispy bacon.
19. Winston’s Grille (also our pick)
    Location: 6401 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh
    Description: A longstanding Raleigh favorite (since 1986) offering a menu of comforting, classic American dishes in a warm, inviting setting.
    Why it’s liked: Praised for its delicious shrimp and grits (I loved it!) and heavenly dessert options, making it a go-to spot for both meals and sweet indulgences. It made our list of best shrimp and grits in Raleigh.
20. The Roast Grill
    Location: 7 S West St, Raleigh
    Description: A no-frills, hole-in-the-wall known for its legendary hot dogs in a tiny nondescript house near Morgan Food Hall.
    Why it’s liked: the all-the-way hot dogs with mustard, onions, slaw, and chili are the best!
21. Neomonde
    Location: 3817 Beryl Rd, Raleigh (other Triangle locations)
    Description: A casual Mediterranean café and market known for its fresh, flavorful dishes including a wide variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free option
    Why it’s liked: Apart from their popular kabobs, you’ll love their man’ousheh (flatbread) and my daughter can’t get enough of their hand-rolled grape leaves and sticky sweet baklava. Check out more vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Raleigh
22. Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon
    Location: 5625 Creedmoor Rd, Raleigh
    Description: Relish celebrates a love of food, drink, cooking, and entertaining in an upscale atmosphere without the upscale attitude or upscale price tag.
    Why it’s liked: Known for its comforting new modern Southern-inspired dishes like BBQ pork ribs, pimento cheese fritters, and their test kitchen offers first insight into up and coming dishes.
23. The Big Easy
    Location: 222 Fayetteville St, Raleigh
    Description: A lively New Orleans-themed restaurant serving classic Cajun and Creole dishes.
    Why it’s liked: Offers a lively New Orleans-inspired dining experience with dishes to love like alligator bites, Louisiana crab dip, catfish platter, and my favorite the etouffee.
24. Flavor Hills
    Location: 319 Fayetteville St Suite 105, Raleigh
    Description: A casual yet innovative downtown restaurant where warmth, connection, and the love for quality cuisine converge.
    Why it’s liked: A rising star known for its bold flavors and contemporary twist on southern favorites such as Hot honey chicken sandwich, Cajun shrimp and grits, and the chicken and waffle made with churros – a meal and dessert in one. I loved its vibrant murals of Black icons all over the walls.
25. The Peddler Steakhouse
    Location: 6005 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
    Description: A cozy steakhouse serving classic cuts and a nostalgic atmosphere since 1969.
    Why it’s liked: Known for its classic steak offerings and cozy atmosphere. Each steak we serve is aged for a minimum of 28 days for ultimate flavor and tenderness.
26. Arepa Culture
    Location: 6274 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
    Description: A Venezuelan-inspired eatery offering gluten-free arepas in a welcoming setting. They also have food trucks!
    Why it’s liked: A must-visit for gluten-free diners, offering authentic Venezuelan arepas.

You will love these G.O.A.T restaurants in Raleigh (as voted by our community!)

Upscale & Special Occasions

28. Whiskey Kitchen (our pick)
    Location: 201 W Martin St, Raleigh
    Description: A modern urban bar and restaurant offering a diverse whiskey selection and exceptional chef-driven dishes.
    Why it’s liked: Praised for its exceptional food, with their brussel sprouts and pork chops singled out as one of the best meals of the year for me. They also made our best places to drink this year as voted by y’all.
29. Jolie (our pick)
    Location: 620 N Person St, Raleigh
    Description: A French-inspired bistro from local chef icon Scott Crawford with a cozy and intimate yet elegant atmosphere.
    Why it’s liked: Its rooftop setting is romantic and perfect for date nights. We celebrated Craig’s birthday here. Their mussels were the best I’ve ever had – that broth #drinakble And the duck special was exceptional. You may also love their escargot!
30. Good Day Good Night at The Casso Hotel (our pick)
    Location: 603 W Morgan St, Raleigh
    Description: A hidden gem in The Casso Hotel, featuring a chef-driven menu with unique,. locally sourced ingredients where possible, expertly crafted into mouthwatering dishes deeply rooted in culinary heritage.
    Why it’s liked: A surprising favorite for its creative and well-executed meals in an elegant yet approachable setting. Everything we ate was exceptional, but most notably the salmon ceviche, spicy maple-glazed chicken wings and salmon with wild mushroom risotto. Read more in our Casso Hotel review.
31. Second Empire
    Location: 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh
    Description: A fine dining experience in a restored historic home offering an elegant atmosphere and impeccable service.
    Why it’s liked: I love the abundance of gluten free food options and romantic atmosphere. We loved Roasted Five Spice Pennsylvania Duck Breast:, the lamb chops dish with scalloped potatoes, and the vanilla Bean Creme Brulee: Read our review of the Second Empire Restaurant
32. Death & Taxes
    Location: 105 W Hargett St, Raleigh
    Description: A chic, high-end restaurant from local celebrity chef Ashely Christianson focusing on bold, fire-kissed flavors and a stylish interior.
    Why it’s liked: A must-visit for high-end cuisine with bold flavors focused on wood fired cooking with a limited menu to avoid decision overwhelm while still offering overwhelming flavors.
33. Crawford & Son
    Location: 618 N Person St, Raleigh
    Description: A contemporary eatery that’s casual yet elegant offering innovative dishes with a stylish and modern vibe.
    Why it’s liked: A favorite for its creative dishes and refined ambiance. Diners also love the seasonal menu always offering something new to return to. Previous favorites of ours has been the  potato and celeriac chowder, pork cheeks, beef ribs, and sticky date pudding for dessert (popular in Australia). Read our review of Crawford & Sons.
34. Herons
    Location: 100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary
    Description: A fine dining experience at The Umstead Hotel, offering exquisite Italian and French-inspired dishes. IT is one of only 64 Forbes Five-Star restaurants in the world, 
    Why it’s liked: Offers a fine dining experience with artful presentations and a luxurious atmosphere. our friends visiting from Scottsdale said their dinner pre fixe menu was one of the best dining experiences they’ve ever had. (and Colleen is a travel blogger like us) If you just want to soak up the mid-century glamour of the Umstead, their lounge is also a wonderful spot for a craft cocktail and a charcuterie board. You can read about our experience at Heron’s and the Umstead Hotel & Spa.
35. Stanbury (our pick)
    Location: 938 N Blount St, Raleigh
    Description: A trendy restaurant offering fresh, seasonal dishes in a hip setting. Possibly one of the most unique restaurants in Raleigh with exceptional food to match.
    Why it’s liked: Renowned for its quirky ambiance (think coastal shack married neighborhood romance) and its daily changing seasonal menu. The steak here is the best I’ve ever had! While perfect for a date, groups of friends love gathering here – we had a blast with our friends from Scottsdale! No reservations allowed, get here early!
36. Angus Barn
    Location: 9401 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
    Description: A Raleigh institution since 1960 offering hearty steaks in a rustic and charming atmosphere.
    Why it’s liked: A Raleigh institution known for its steaks and classic charm and festival Christmas atmosphere during the holidays. Finally we are booked in to experience it this Christmas with Craig’s parents visiting from Australia. Don’t miss the iconic Wild Turkey Lounge (ranked “one of the Best Business Bars in America) and the wine cellar with more than 1500 wines.
37. Perry’s Steakhouse and Grill
    Location: 4509 Creedmoor Rd, Raleigh
    Description: An upscale steakhouse offering a sophisticated dining experience.
    Why it’s liked: A favorite steakhouse with high-quality prime USDA-aged steaks, tableside service, and famous pork chop. Also to love is the wine wall and a bar with a patio. (Gets a mention as a place to eat in Raleigh for Thanksgiving)
38. Hummingbird
    Location: 1053 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh
    Description: A trendy eatery with a menu inspired by Southern and coastal flavors with a small but robust seasonally changing menu with dishes giving a nod to owner-Chef Colleen’s New Orleans culinary roots
    Why it’s liked: Famous for its friendly, chic space, outdoor patio and shrimp po’boy and standout desserts.
39. Village Tavern
    Location: 4208 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh
    Description: A popular American restaurant, new to North Hills this year offering a diverse menu in a welcoming and relaxed setting.
    Why it’s liked: A local favorite for its consistently excellent food, great service, and variety of options, making it a go-to spot for any occasion. I was disappointed to miss the preview dinner here (I was having fun at the Inhaler concert with my daughter), but Craig went and raved about the quality of the steak, desserts, and cocktails.

Try these date ideas in Raleigh for more romance in unique and fun ways.

BBQ Spots

40. Mac’s Speed Shop (our pick)
    Location: 1626 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
    Description: A trendy barbecue spot with a casual atmosphere, offering smoked meats, craft beer, and a lively vibe perfect for watching sports or catching live music.
    Why it’s liked: We only just discovered this awesome new favorite restaurant and loved it’s excellent BBQ offerings. The standout was the pulled chicken nachos and I am confident in claiming their smoked chicken wings as the best I’ve ever had.
41. The BBQ Lab
    Location: 4120-135 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh
    Description: A barbecue haven which began in Johnston County. It offers award winning classic smoked meats and creative sides.
    Why it’s liked: Praised for its high-quality barbecue and sides. We say go all in on a platter – you won’t regret that meaty goodness.
42. Sam Jones BBQ
    Location: 502 W Lenoir St, Raleigh
    Description: A legendary North Carolina barbecue joint focusing on authentic pit-smoked meats and a place we took both our sets of parents for this southern classic.
    Why it’s liked: We love their brisket (when available) their pulled pork, and you must try their unique cheer wine pork belly (on select days) You can’t get more NC than that!
43. Dampf Good BBQ
    Location: Phillips Farm, 6800 Good Hope Church Rd, Cary
    Description: A barbecue spot serving classic smoked meats with a modern twist, emphasizing bold flavors and quality ingredients.
    Why it’s liked: Celebrated for its perfectly cooked barbecue and flavorful dishes that keep patrons coming back for more. We haven”t been yet, but the lines I’ve seen on Instagram is testament to hit being on of the best BBQ joints in the Triangle. We did enjoy their samplings at the Brisket & Bubbles event two years ago.

Still hungry? Don’t miss these best BBQ joints in Raleigh

Brunch, Bakery & Sweet Treats

44. Press Coffee & Crepes (our pick)
    Location: 400 Hillsborough St suite 108, Raleigh
    Description: A charming café offering delicious crepes and expertly brewed coffee.
    Why it’s liked: Known for its amazing crepes and great coffee. We love that all the crepes are gluten free, are delicious and innovative and their coffee is one of the best in Raleigh. Plus, we love the European vibe. We’ve taken three different set of visitors there this year and they all loved it. See more gluten free restaurants here. Read our full review of Press Coffee & Crepes.
45. Peck & Plume at The Mayton Inn (our pick)
    Location: 301 S Academy St, Cary
    Description: A refined yet approachable restaurant located in the boutique Mayton Inn, offering elevated Southern-inspired cuisine with seasonal touches.
    Why it’s liked: A standout for brunch, especially their Cold Brew Whiskey Cocktail, French toast, and innovative, seasonally changing shrimp and grits, which I’m happy to hail as the best ever (twice!). We took Craig’s parents and our Scottsdale friends here for bunch and much gushing was done!
46. Simply Crepes
    Location: 8470 Honeycutt Rd, Raleigh
    Description: A cozy café in Lafayette Village offering both sweet and savory crepes alongside specialty coffees.
    Why it’s liked: Celebrated for its delicious crepes and indulgent beignets.
47. Drift Cafe Ridgewood
    Location: 3510 Wade Ave, Raleigh
    Description: A standout breakfast spot with fresh, high-quality dishes and great coffee new to the Raleigh restaurant this year. WE also love their Ocean Isle location and Wilmington (we took my parents there)
    Why it’s liked: A favorite for breakfast and coffee lovers. Favorites include their Nutella French toast, crispy potato brekkie, and great coffee!
48. Paul and Jack’s Bakery Cafe
    Location: 2010 S Main St #404, Wake Forest
    Description: A beloved bakery known for its expertly crafted baked goods and pastries that transport you to Europe
    Why it’s liked: their most popular items are the bomboloni, cinnamon rolls, and Basque cheesecake. And of course, these are Italian desserts, the tiramisu is also *chef’s kiss*
49. Annelore’s German Bakery (our pick)
    Location: 308 W Chatham St, Cary
    Description: A charming bakery specializing in traditional German pastries and baked goods, all crafted with authentic recipes and techniques.
    Why it’s liked: Celebrated for its high-quality offerings, including their standout Apfelkuchen (German apple pie), which combines a perfect balance of tart apples and buttery crust for a truly memorable treat. I had to include that for my father-in-law visiting from Australia who loved this apple pie, kept returning for me, and is still talking about it from the land Down Under.
50. Bittersweet
    Location: 16 E Martin St, Raleigh
    Description: A stylish dessert bar and cocktail lounge in downtown Raleigh, known for its creative drinks and indulgent treats.
    Why it’s liked: Beloved for its standout desserts, especially the Mango Pie, which is frequently hailed as a must-try dish. A favorite of ours for years now is their pumpkin creme brulee paired with an Irish Coffee.

Final thoughts

Raleigh’s restaurant scene is as diverse and dynamic as the people who live here, and this list is proof of just how much there is to love. From community favorites shared by our Facebook and Instagram followers to our personal top picks, these restaurants reflect the best of what the City of Oaks has to offer.

Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for something new or a loyal patron revisiting an old favorite, we hope this guide inspires you to explore and savor Raleigh’s incredible dining spots.

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• Top vegan & vegetarian restaurants in Raleigh (and beyond)
• The best places to eat breakfast in Raleigh
• Best places to eat inside the beltline of Raleigh
• Best coffee shops in Downtown Raleigh (the locals love)
• Our favorite Downtown Raleigh restaurants for all tastes!
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