Dining - Raleigh, North Carolina

DiningGuide was updated: January 4, 2025

There’s so much to taste in Raleigh: the area’s culinary scene is experiencing a veritable renaissance, making it one of the hottest dining destinations in the Southeast U.S. The Raleigh area may be traditionally known for pork barbecue and fried seafood, but it is increasingly known for innovative farm-to-fork, New American and multicultural cuisines.

Sitti

Sitti in downtown Raleigh offers a taste of Lebanese heritage through its authentic menu. Their approach to traditional dishes is true to their origins yet modern in the execution. Enjoy your meat at a busy communal table and get a drink from the elegant art deco bar.

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Bida Manda

Bida Manda in downtown Raleigh is one of the first Laotian restaurants opened in the US. Some of the dishes you can try here are the crispy pork belly soup, the pumpkin curry and the Saffron crepe made with rice and tumeric.

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Neomonde Mediterranean Raleigh

Neomonde, a family-run restaurant established in 1977, offers a taste of authentic Mediterranean cuisine. Their menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including kebabs, hummus, and other regional specialties, all prepared with fresh ingredients and time-honored methods. Neomonde also caters to various dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Enjoy a delicious meal on their inviting patio and experience the warm hospitality and rich flavors that have made Neomonde a local favorite for decades.

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State Farmers’ Market Restaurant

The State Farmers' Market Restaurant offers a taste of Southern cuisine featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients from North Carolina. Enjoy a hearty country breakfast or a satisfying lunch, and be sure to inquire about the daily specials and tempting desserts. Don't miss their renowned "real biscuits," a local favorite that perfectly complements any meal.

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Roast Grill

The Roast Grill is another only-in-Raleigh institution. The Roast Grill basically serves one thing: grill-blackened Southern-style hot dogs. They come with mustard, chili, onions and slaw. The dogs don’t have or need ketchup, relish, mayonnaise, cheese, French fries or chips. Cokes are available in old-fashioned returnable bottles. Those with a sweet tooth will find gum, candy and homemade pound cake or baklava.

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Shuckers Oyster Bar & Grill

Shuckers Seafood Grill offers a diverse menu featuring fresh seafood, classic steak options, and Southern-inspired specialties. Discover their best-selling seafood chowder, indulge in addictive hushpuppies (deep-fried cornbread), and savor the flavors of their renowned oysters. Complement your meal with one of their signature cocktails for a truly satisfying dining experience.

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The Pit

The smell of Carolina barbecue and promise of contemporary takes on old Southern favorites attract Raleigh natives and new visitors to The Pit in downtown Raleigh’s Warehouse District. The executive chef is best known for his whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue.

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Angus Barn

Angus Barn offers a refined dining experience with a focus on in-house aged Angus beef and classic steak preparations. Explore a menu featuring fresh seafood dishes, vegetarian options, and tempting homemade desserts. The restaurant also boasts an opulent wine cellar and lounge.

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Herons at The Umstead Hotel & Spa

Herons, located at the upscale Umstead Hotel and Spa, offers a fine dining menu focused on modern American cuisine and featuring local and seasonal ingredients.

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Poole’s Diner

Originally called Poole's Pie Shop, a Raleigh institution since 1945, has been revitalized by Chef Ashley Christensen, preserving its iconic double horseshoe bar and red leather seats. Christensen, recognized in publications like Gourmet, Bon Appétit, and Southern Living, offers a unique take on Southern cuisine, utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers. The ever-evolving menu ensures a fresh and exciting dining experience with each visit.

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Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern

Second Empire is located in Dodd-Hinsdale House, a restored 19th-century venue. The restaurant's interiors are exquisitely elegant, while the tavern has a more laid-back atmosphere. Both serve gourmet cuisine for a true fine dining experience.

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Dining in Raleigh, North Carolina

Sitti

Bida Manda

Neomonde Mediterranean Raleigh

State Farmers’ Market Restaurant

Roast Grill

Shuckers Oyster Bar & Grill

The Pit

Angus Barn

Herons at The Umstead Hotel & Spa

Poole’s Diner

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern