2025 Best Restaurants in Raleigh, NC

From Avard-winning restaurants to coveted classics and rising talents, embark on a culinary journey.

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4.5
(48 reviews)

Foxcroft Wine Co. Raleigh

Serves Modern American cuisine, featuring house-made pastas, flatbreads, steaks, seafood, and artisanal small plates—all crafted to pair beautifully with a diverse, thoughtfully curated wine selection.

Modern American scratch kitchen
Extensive, approachable wine selection
Cozy yet inviting ambiance
Perfect wine pairings
Community-driven experience
Private events & tastings
Distance: 370.7 mi away
Cuisine: American

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What are the most popular menu items?

Guest favorites include the Foxcroft Burger, truffle fries, shrimp cocktail, and seasonal flatbreads, all designed to pair beautifully with wine.

How extensive is the wine selection?

The Raleigh location features 30+ wines by the glass, curated flights, and an expansive bottle list with both global labels and hidden gems.

Do they host wine tastings or special events?

Yes, Foxcroft hosts monthly wine tastings, pairing dinners, and private events, making it a hub for Raleigh’s wine community.

4.4
(1019 reviews)

Vivace

Vivace is a contemporary Italian trattoria in North Hills with handmade pastas, Neapolitan-inspired pizzas, an indoor/outdoor bar, great patio vibes, and a robust Italian wine list.

Handmade Pasta Daily
Neapolitan-Style Pizzas
Fresh Italian Antipasti
Vibrant Patio + Bar
Contemporary Northern Italian
Private Dining Available
Distance: 370.7 mi away
Cuisine: Italian
What’s Vivace’s signature culinary style?

Vivace serves contemporary Northern Italian—with house-made pastas, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, handmade flatbreads, and Italian-inspired small plates.

What dishes are most popular with guests?

Favorites include the Four Cheese Ravioli, Scallop Risotto, and Traditional Bolognese—all beloved for their bold, authentic Italian flavors.

What pizzas are a hit here?

The Mushroom Medley Pizza (with truffle oil and lemon ricotta) and Margherita Pizza consistently delight guests.

4.3
(320 reviews)

Village Tavern

Village Tavern brings upscale-casual American dining to Raleigh’s North Hills—scratch-kitchen fare, craft cocktails, local beers & award-winning wine in a warm, refined neighborhood setting.

Scratch-made American classics
Craft cocktails & local brews
Award-winning wine list
Weekend brunch favorites
Upscale-casual North Hills dining
Warm, lively neighborhood vibe
Distance: 370.8 mi away
Cuisine: American

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What are some of Village Tavern’s most popular entrées?

Guest favorites include the Chicken Milanese, Filet Mignon, Southern Shrimp & Grits, and Grouper Hemingway.

Are there seafood entrées on the menu?

Absolutely—try the Maryland-Style Crab Cake, Fresh Salmon, Jumbo Shrimp Hemingway, or Grouper Hemingway.

Are there vegetarian options?

Absolutely—our menu includes vegetarian-friendly salads, flatbreads, and entrées like Spaghetti Squash & Zucchini. Many dishes can also be customized to suit vegetarian preferences.

4.3
(2029 reviews)

STIR

STIR Raleigh crafts fine cocktails with artisanal ice, serves a rotating seafood cold bar, scratch-made dishes, and hosts brunch, lunch, and specials in a stylish downtown Raleigh setting.

Craft cocktails & artisanal ice
Fresh oyster & seafood bar
Scratch-made lunch offerings
Weekend brunch favorites
Rotating food & drink specials
Stylish downtown atmosphere
Distance: 370.9 mi away
Cuisine: American

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What is STIR Raleigh known for?

STIR is famous for its craft cocktails made with artisanal ice and its fresh raw oyster bar.

What cocktail should I try first?

STIR is best known for the Old Fashioned, crafted with Four Roses bourbon, muddled fruit, and served over one large artisanal ice rock for perfect balance in every sip. If you want something brighter, the Viva La Astral blends tequila, grapefruit, cucumber, and ginger with a hint of jalapeño, while the Slack-Jawed Jezebel showcases scratch-made lemon curd and ginger syrup for a refreshing twist. For adventurous drinkers, the STIR’ed Martini with an oyster shell mist or the bold Fuji-Tini with Japanese flavors are true standouts.

What entrées are favorites?

STIR makes every dish from scratch using fresh, local ingredients. Guests rave about the Lobster & Shrimp White Cheddar Mac & Cheese, Shrimp & Grits, and the Halibut Piccata with roasted vegetables. Seafood lovers enjoy the Grilled Salmon and the signature Lobster Crab Cake. From the raw bar, the Oysters Rockefeller and Seafood Tower are must-try favorites.

4.5
(482 reviews)

True Food Kitchen

Eat better at True Food Kitchen Raleigh—where chef-made, anti-inflammatory dishes meet bold flavors, seasonal produce, seed-oil-free cooking, and naturally nourishing beverages.

Science-backed, anti-inflammatory menu
Fresh, seasonal, seed-oil-free cooking
Wide range of vegetarian & vegan options
Handcrafted cocktails & natural refreshers
Bright, modern North Hills dining space
Brunch, lunch & dinner with bold flavors
Distance: 370.9 mi away
Cuisine: American

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Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes! Many bowls, salads, pizzas, and entrées are vegetarian (VEG or V) or can be made vegan. Options include Teriyaki Quinoa Bowl, Ancient Grain Bowl, Spaghetti Squash Casserole, Margherita Pizza, and the Plant-Based Double Cheeseburger.

Are there options for seafood lovers?

Definitely! Choices include Wild-Caught Tuna Poke Bowl, Spicy Panang Curry Bowl with shellfish, Grilled Sustainable Salmon, Mediterranean Wild-Caught Shrimp, and more.

What types of entrées are available?

Entrées include seafood, grass-fed beef, chicken, vegetarian, and pasta dishes. Popular choices are Grilled Sustainable Salmon, Grilled Grass-Fed Tenderloin, Chicken Parmesan, Lasagne al Pesto, and Mediterranean Wild-Caught Shrimp.

4.5
(1780 reviews)

bartaco

Bartaco Raleigh serves upscale street-style tacos and small plates in a vibrant, coastal-inspired setting, with specialty cocktails, fresh juices, and a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

Upscale street-style tacos
Fresh, flavorful small plates
Coastal-inspired, vibrant décor
Specialty cocktails and fresh juices
Lively, casual dining atmosphere
Options for tacos, bowls, and shareables
Distance: 370.9 mi away
Cuisine: Mexican
What tacos are bartaco’s favorites?

Popular tacos include Retro Pork Pastor (achiote-marinated pork + pineapple), Baja Fish (tempura-battered cod), Crispy Shrimp, Spiced Chicken Verde, and Seared Chorizo.

What non-taco menu items are recommended?

Try Duck Birria, Lobster Esquites Tray, Roasted Half Chicken, Ceviche, Tuna Poke, Chopped Salad, and Gazpacho.

Which rice bowls are customer favorites?

Favorites include Pork Belly + Crispy Rice, Korean BBQ Ribeye, Spiced Chicken Verde, Mediterranean Cauliflower (vegetarian), and Ahi Tuna + Crispy Rice.

4.4
(2797 reviews)

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Enjoy chef-inspired dishes, wood-grilled steaks, and fresh seafood at Firebirds Raleigh. Relax at the lively FIREBAR® or dine on the patio for a polished yet casual experience.

Signature wood-fired steaks & seafood
Handcrafted cocktails at the lively FIREBAR®
Seasonal chef-inspired dishes
Elegant yet relaxed atmosphere
Outdoor patio dining
Known for friendly, attentive service
Distance: 370.9 mi away
Cuisine: American
What are Firebirds’ most popular entrees?

Guests love the hand-cut Filet Mignon, Slow Roasted Prime Rib, and Wood Grilled Salmon, all cooked over a wood-fired grill for bold flavor.

Are there vegetarian or gluten-free choices?

Firebirds offers a dedicated gluten-sensitive menu and vegetarian-friendly options like the Portabella Sandwich and fresh salads.

Is Firebirds family-friendly?

Yes, the menu includes kid-friendly options, and families enjoy the warm atmosphere for both casual dinners and special occasions.

4.6
(2019 reviews)

The Capital Grille

An upscale, relaxed steakhouse in North Hills, The Capital Grille specializes in 18–24 day dry-aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an expansive 350+ wine list in a stately, elegant setting.

Dry-aged steaks
Award-winning wine list
Refined ambiance
Chef-recommended specialties
Signature favorites
Ideal for special occasions
Distance: 370.9 mi away
Cuisine: American
What are some chef-recommended entrees?

Must-try dishes include Sliced Filet Mignon with Cipollini Onions, Wild Mushrooms & Fig Essence and Porcini-Rubbed Bone-In Ribeye with 15-Year Aged Balsamic.

Which appetizers or sides are crowd favorites?

Guests rave about the Lobster Mac ’N’ Cheese, Tuna Tartare with Avocado, Mango & Sriracha, and Porcini-Rubbed Bone-In Ribeye.

Does the restaurant offer private event space?

Yes, private dining rooms and event spaces are available, ideal for celebrations, business dinners, or wine events.

4.3
(3597 reviews)

Yard House

Yard House in Raleigh’s North Hills offers a lively, upscale-casual dining experience with 140+ draft beers and a diverse menu of burgers, pizzas, seafood, steaks, and global-inspired dishes.

Extensive Beer Selection
Extensive menu with burgers, pizzas, and seafood
Global-inspired dishes and small plates
Upscale-casual, vibrant atmosphere
Handcrafted cocktails and drinks
Ideal for groups, happy hours, and events
Distance: 371 mi away
Cuisine: American
Do you serve burgers and sandwiches?

Yes! Handhelds include ½ lb burgers like Two Pepper Jack, Classic Cheese, Truffle Cheese, BBQ Bacon Cheddar, and vegetarian options like Mediterranean Veggie Burger. Sandwiches include Nashville Hot Chicken, Grilled Chicken & Avocado, Turkey Club, BLT, and Cheesesteaks.

Do you offer drinks and cocktails?

Yes! We have Margaritas, Martinis, Mules, Low-Proof cocktails, Old Fashioneds, Mocktails, Sparkling, Wine, and a wide selection of Beers, Ciders, and Non-Alcoholic Beverages.

Do you have kid-friendly options?

Yes! The Kids Menu includes favorites like: Fried Chicken Tenders, Grilled Chicken, Pepperoni or Cheese Pizza, Cheeseburger Sliders, Grilled Cheese, Mac & Cheese, and Gardein® Kids Tenders.

4.6
(1042 reviews)

O-Ku

O-Ku Raleigh dazzles in downtown’s Warehouse District with refined sushi, robata dishes, and petite plates—showcasing the freshest fish from global and local sources in a sophisticated, regional style.

Fresh sushi with global & local fish
Robata grill & inventive small plates
Stylish setting in Raleigh’s Warehouse District
Seasonal chef specials & signature rolls
Extensive sake, wine & cocktail menu
Upscale yet approachable dining experience
Distance: 374 mi away
Cuisine: Asian

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What entrée dishes are highly recommended?

Guests love the Donburi Bowl with chicken thigh, vegetables, and yuzu soy, as well as the Pan-Seared Salmon with miso soy butter glaze and creamy orzo.

Does O-Ku serve specialty sushi?

Yes, standout items include the O-Toro Spoons with uni and caviar, Wagyu A-5 Nigiri with foie gras, and the signature Akira Roll with maguro, spicy tuna, lemon, and yuzu aioli.

What cocktails are guest favorites?

Popular drinks include the Sakura Bloom (plum wine, yuzu, gin), Okinawa Sunset (whisky, plum wine, blood orange), and Nippon & Nopal (honeydew, sake, tequila).

Triangle Family Events, Festivals & Food Finds

Family enjoying event
By Daniel

Family Events with Great Food Around the Triangle (2025)

The Triangle's family events calendar is packed with reasons to get outside - and plenty of good food to go with it. From Raleigh food truck festivals and Durham farm days to Cary kids' fairs and downtown celebrations, these gatherings make it easy to spend the day together and enjoy something delicious along the way.

One of the best parts about living in the Raleigh-Durham area is how often food and community come together. You can take the kids to a fall farm day, let them run off energy at a live music event, and grab tacos or ice cream from a local food truck before heading home. Whether you're in Raleigh, Cary, Durham, Chapel Hill, Apex, Holly Springs, Wake Forest, or Garner - there's always something tasty happening nearby.

View the Triangle Family Events Calendar

1. Food Truck Rodeos & Outdoor Family Festivals

From Durham Central Park's Food Truck Rodeo to Raleigh's Downtown Street Eats, these events are family favorites for a reason. Kids can sample bites from dozens of local trucks, while parents enjoy live music and local brews. Afterward, stroll to nearby restaurants like Village Tavern or STIR for a sit-down meal with a Triangle twist.

2. Farm Events with Local Eats

Local farms host some of the most fun (and delicious) family days in the Triangle. The Raleigh metro offer seasonal festivals with hayrides, animals, and farm-fresh snacks. Many events feature local vendors or food trucks, making it easy to grab lemonade, BBQ, or homemade ice cream before exploring nearby cafés like Crema Coffee Roaster or Lucky Tree.

3. Holiday Celebrations & Sweet Treat Stops

The holidays bring twinkling lights and great bites. Families can enjoy Raleigh's Christmas Parade, Cary's Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, or Chapel Hill's Tree Lighting Ceremony - each filled with local food vendors and bakeries offering festive snacks. After the fun, cozy up for dinner at Second Empire, Pizzeria Toro, or grab dessert at Two Roosters Ice Cream.

4. Farmers Markets Turned Family Events

The State Farmers Market in Raleigh or Durham, Cary, Holly Springs Farmers Market often host kid-friendly weekends with live music, crafts, and seasonal tastings. It's an easy way to introduce kids to local food and support Triangle growers - and you can always walk over to The State Farmers Market Restaurant for one of the best Southern breakfasts around.

Family events in the Triangle are more than just activities - they're full-day experiences where good food and good memories meet. Whether you're planning your weekend around a kids' festival, parade, or farm event, there's always a great restaurant or food truck nearby to make it even better.

Latest Triangle Food Blogs & Dining Guides

Discover the best of the Triangle's food scene with our latest restaurant reviews, dining guides, and local food blogs. From Raleigh's top restaurants to Durham's hidden gems and foodie events across the Triangle, we share fresh ideas and insider tips to help you enjoy every bite. Explore Mandolin Raleigh's curated guides for must-try eats and local dining inspiration.

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