One of my favorite things to do is try new restaurants and foods. When we moved to North Carolina, we had a whole new host of restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops to try out. Raleigh is the capital of North Carolina, and it boasts many delicious places to eat. Like most places in the South, there are plenty of BBQ and fried chicken restaurants. As locals, we have put together our list of the best restaurants in Raleigh to check out.
The Greater Raleigh area has many different towns and is even close to two other cities with even more incredible restaurant choices. We are going to focus on the city proper rather than the Greater Raleigh area. We do recommend going to Durham and Chapel Hill as well. Another exceptional aspect of many restaurants in North Carolina is that, as an agricultural state, many of the veggies are extra fresh.
Where is the Best Coffee & Breakfast in Raleigh?
One of our favorite ways to eat like locals in all the places we visit is to check out the cafes. Raleigh is no exception. Eating like a local in Raleigh should absolutely include going to a cafe and trying out the local coffees. Local culture happens in cafes. Here are our favorite ones:
Jubala Coffee
This spot is right across the street from NC State University. It is so popular that it has expanded to have two additional locations throughout Raleigh. At Jubala Coffee, you’ll find a variety of coffees, biscuits, sandwiches, and freshly baked goods. Our favorite coffees are the Miele, Mocha, and the Homeland. The Homeland is perfect to cool off in summer. Definitely try the biscuits while here.
Address: 2100 Hillsborough St., Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27607
Heirloom Coffee
Heirloom Coffee is such a cool and modern coffee shop. One of the things that makes this coffee shop extra special is the fact that it showcases Lao and Taiwanese foods and coffee. This marriage of Laos and Taiwan leads to some of the most interesting and delicious flavor combinations. For maximum enjoyment, you can have breakfast and lunch at Heirloom Coffee. Our favorites are the Heirloom Breakfast Baguette and the Japanese Style Iced Coffee.
Address: 219 S West St, Raleigh, NC
The Third Place Coffee Shop
The Third Place Coffee Shop curates its coffee and sandwiches with fresh, local ingredients. The eclectic vibe of the shop is inviting to all. It has more challenging parking, which is why most tourists avoid it, but it is a big hit with locals to eat in Raleigh. The menus change seasonally, and all the specials are written on the chalkboard in the cafe.
Address: 1811 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC
Michael’s English Muffins
For the best English Muffins in the world, head to Michael’s English Muffins. This is truly a hidden gem in Raleigh that is very popular with the locals. We used to pick up English Muffins here whenever we were in the area. Now that we are in Israel, I miss them so much. They are freshly baked every single day.
Not only can you buy a bundle of four to take home, but you can also order sandwiches in the restaurant for breakfast. They have several different flavors of English Muffins. Stick to the original for the first time. They also offer a variety of sandwiches. Our favorite is the Originator. I’d recommend skipping the coffee here.
Address: 3611 Spring Forest Rd Suite 114, Raleigh, NC 27616
Black & White Coffee
Found inside the Videri Chocolate Factory, this cafe has great coffee and chocolate! Black & White has its own brand of coffee roasts because they take it that seriously. We like the mochas best here since you’re in a chocolate factory, after all! Additionally, they have ample outdoor seating for the lovely Raleigh fall days. They are across the street from Boxcar Arcade + Bar (we talk about it below), which gives you plenty of places to eat without going far.
Address: 327 W Davie St, Raleigh, NC
Morning Rolls
This unassuming little shop in the middle of a parking lot has some of the best cinnamon rolls in the city! Morning Rolls has traditional cinnamon rolls and seasonal rolls. Additionally, they serve sandwiches and hamburgers. All the rolls are freshly made every day. While their cinnamon rolls are 10/10, I recommend skipping the coffee.
Address: 1322A Millbrook Road, Raleigh, NC 27609
The Optimist – Raleigh
We went to The Optimist- Raleigh just a few weeks before we embarked on our journey to Israel. It quickly became one of my favorite cafes in Raleigh. When we first arrived, it was fairly empty, but then it quickly got busy showcasing just how popular it is with the locals to eat here. They served their breakfast sandwiches on Michael’s English Muffins, which was a huge win for me. Plus, the coffees are huge and delicious.
Definitely try out their seasonal coffees when you go. I got the Nutella latte! The Heart Burn is a great one to try if you like some spice with your hot drinks. Our favorite sandwiches are the Pancho Villa and the Hulk Smash.
Address: 1000 Brookside Dr. STE 109 Raleigh, NC 27604
NoRa Cafe
Another one of the best restaurants for breakfast in north Raleigh is NoRa Cafe. This spot has so much indoor and outdoor seating that some people enjoy staying for a while to chat or do work. One of the coolest things about this cafe is the wide variety of coffees available. They are really creative with the coffee options. We like the Hazel Bee, Killer Bee, Spicy Mocha, and Creme Brulee.
Of course, they also have lots of food options. They have liege waffles, which brings us all the memories of skiing in New England. They also have fresh daily baked goods. Additionally, it is close to Umstead, so it’s perfect for breakfast before or after a walk.
Address: 12333 Strickland Road, Raleigh, NC 27613
Flying Biscuit Cafe
The Flying Biscuit Cafe is a chain of breakfast restaurants in the South. This quirky cafe has lots of delicious breakfast options. It is such a popular place for locals to eat at in Raleigh. While there definitely try the “moon dusted” potatoes as a side to your breakfast. We also enjoy the chicken biscuits and the fried green tomatoes.
Address: 2016 Clark Ave Raleigh, NC 27605
Where do Locals Eat? The Best Restaurants in Raleigh!
Casual Dining
Poole’side Pies- Pizza
Poole’side Pies has wood-fired pizzas with incredibly unique toppings. This place is excellent for a date night. I recommend making a reservation on weekends as it is very popular with locals in Raleigh. Something to keep in mind when selecting the pizza you want, if it doesn’t specify that it has cheese, then the pizza will come without cheese. The menu will also specify the kind of sauce. They also change the menu seasonally, so the ingredients are always incredibly fresh.
Address: 428 S. McDowell St., Raleigh, NC 27601
Gravy- Italian
Gravy Restaurant in Raleigh is a fun Italian date spot. This restaurant offers lunch and dinner. Given the name, you must know that the sauce is excellent. They also offer an outdoor patio for those beautiful sunny days in Raleigh. Our favorites include the lasagna, the chicken parmigiana, and the gnocchi.
Address: 135 S Wilmington St. Raleigh, NC 27601
Relish Craft Kitchen + Bourbon Bar- Southern Cooking
For a delicious and contemporary twist on Southern cooking, hit up Relish! They have wonderful salads, grilled cheese sandwiches, and many hearty sandwiches. One of the best things is definitely their mac n’ cheese. The burgers are also really good. You can’t go wrong with any of these options in one of the best Southern restaurants in Raleigh. Come hungry because the dishes are big.
Address: 5625 Creedmoor Rd Raleigh, NC
The Kitchen Table @ Relish – Southern Cooking
Ever want to play board games while eating a delicious meal? The Kitchen Table has got you covered. With a Game Master on site to teach you all the rules and you get to eat incredible Southern Cooking! I really enjoyed the brunch options, especially the chicken and waffles and the Monte Cristo.
Address: 5629 Creedmoor Rd Raleigh NC 27612
V Pizza
For the best pizza in the Triangle. It comes straight out of a hot pizza oven and right to your plate. Just the way it was intended. V Pizza has perfected the pizza, and along with that, some bread, too. They are a very popular spot for locals to eat at in Raleigh because it is truly one of the best restaurants. Additionally, they offer pasta, sandwiches, wings, salads, and of course dessert. For pizza, we recommend Paolo Pizza and Piccante Pizza.
Address: 7930 Skyland Ridge Pkwy, Ste 100 Raleigh, NC
Lechon Latin BBQ & Grill
When we first walked into Lechon Latin BBQ, I thought I was going to hate it. It is found in the backside of a mall, and it’s hard to see from the street. Well, I was SO wrong; the food was delicious. It took me back to living in Miami with readily available Cuban food. So don’t let the outside fool you; the food is so worth it. Here are our favorites in this local Raleigh eatery: The Lechon Sandwich, Beef Sandwich, Tostones, Elote Salad, Latin Potato Salad, and all the empanadas (minus the dessert one).
Address: 5959 Triangle Town Boulevard #Ste. 2121 Raleigh, NC 27616
Cowfish Sushi & Bar- Sushi Fusion
Cowfish is by far one of the most interesting fusions we’ve ever tasted. It is one of those restaurants that gets recommended over and over again by locals to eat at in Raleigh. The owners have taken American burgers and Japanese sushi and fused them into the most interesting Sushi ever. It is so popular that the first two times we went, the wait was longer than the restaurant would be open for, and we had to leave.
They don’t take reservations but have an online “line” that you can sign up for. Its a strange concept but truly one of the best restaurants. We recommend going for lunch as it’s much easier to get a seat. Since you’re here, we highly recommend getting the burgushi! We got Bento boxes to try a little bit of everything.
Address: 4208 Six Forks Road, Suite 100 Raleigh, NC
Farmer’s Market Restaurant
While at the Farmer’s Market, you have to check out the Farmer’s Market Restaurant. All the food is made fresh from the farmer’s market that is on the same property. The food is inexpensive, and it comes in enormous sizes. We have a bunch of things to share. My sister and I shared a sampler to get to try a little bit of everything. They don’t take reservations, but the line moves quickly. Definitely one of the best restaurants for breakfast or lunch in Raleigh.
Address: 1240 Farmers Market Dr, Raleigh, NC 27603
Bistro
Beasley’s- Southern Cooking
You can’t go to the South without getting some good old-fashioned Southern fried chicken. Beasley’s has you covered! Locals in Raleigh love eating here, so it is always busy, and they don’t take reservations. Get the fried chicken; don’t bother with anything else. Is everything else good? Yes, but this is a fried chicken place!! Also, get the biscuits and the pimento mac and cheese.
Address: 237 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh NC, 27601
Sitti – Authentic Lebanese
Bring a piece of the Middle East to Raleigh by eating at Sitti. They have such a wide variety of options that it’s fun to go tapas style and get a little of everything. We really enjoy Middle Eastern food, so we like to get Kibbe, Kafta kabobs, and hummus. Their Sitti Tasting gives you a good option of everything.
Address: 137 S. Wilmington Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
Taverna Agora Greek Kitchen & Bar
This is one of my favorite places to eat in Raleigh. It is definitely a local favorite in Raleigh. The best part of Taverna Agora (aside from the food) is the outdoor rooftop patio. It is a beautiful place to sit and eat lunch or dinner. There are so many delicious options to try. Start with some spreads, then the crispy cheese, and finish with a souvlaki skewer platter or moussaka. They also have huge baklava to finish off the meal.
Address: 326 Hillsborough St. Raleigh, NC
Lime & Lemon Bar & Grill – Indian Cuisine
There are some really great Indian restaurants in the Triangle area. Lime & Lemon is one of those. This restaurant is quite popular; it has several locations in the triangle. Larry and I really enjoy getting Indian food, so we spend a lot of time trying different restaurants to find the ones we like. We always get a naan platter. Additionally, the mango lime chicken curry, salmon tandoori, and butter chicken are must-tries.
Bella Monica’s – Italian Cuisine
Bella Monica’s is by far one of the most popular spots frequented by locals in Raleigh. You’ll experience delicious Italian food. Always get a reservation for here because it truly is that popular. The pasta at Bella Monica’s is definitely the must-have meal at this restaurant.
Address: 3121-103 Edwards Mill Rd Raleigh, NC 27612
Fast Casual
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar
Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is one of our favorite places for burgers. If you are craving a big, juicy burger, this is the place to go! While you can make your own burger, I highly recommend trying their menu options. They also always have delicious specials. Definitely come here hungry, as the burgers are large, and the appetizers are delicious. The potato chips are handmade in the restaurant and a must-try!
Address: Multiple throughout Raleigh
Guasaca- Venezuelan inspired
Guasaca is a great fast-casual restaurant that has arepas. They also offer bowls. You can make your own, or you can pick something off the menu. I personally like making my own bowl when I go. The ingredients are fresh and locally picked. They have chicken, steak, and even vegan options.
Address: Multiple throughout Raleigh
Jasmin and Olivz- Mediterranean
This Mediterranean fast casual place has flatbreads, bowls, panini, and gyros. They also have their own “zakis” which are like delicious quesadillas. Jasmin and Olivz also allows you to make your own bowls, platters, or pitas. The chicken zaki and pesto chicken panini are our favorites. Of course, grab some dessert while there. They have baklava.
Address: Multiple throughout Raleigh
Happy + Hale- Salad Bar
This salad bar has incredible bowls. Happy + Hale are fulfilling and creative. You can of course, make your own bowl or pick one off the menu. The Thai Chicken Crunch is our favorite bowl. Happy + Hale also has an all-day breakfast option as well as some smoothie options.
Address: Multiple throughout Raleigh
Alpaca- Peruvian Chicken
This is one of our favorite local chains. Alpaca is a fast-casual restaurant that serves some of the best Peruvian chicken. There aren’t a lot of options, but that’s okay. They focus on making their food extra delicious. I like getting the lomo saltado and Larry prefers the arroz chaufa. Get some yellow sauce for dipping while you’re there. While neither dish needs a side, I would recommend tostones if you want one.
Address: Multiple throughout Raleigh
Upscale Dining
Jolie – French Restaurant
At Jolie, you’ll experience a timeless French bistro. Here, you’ll get classic French dishes with some modern adaptations. One of the best parts of going to Jolie is getting a reservation on the rooftop. Everything is so tasty. New Year’s Eve is the most popular time at Jolie, so make reservations well ahead of time.
Address: 620 N. Person Street Raleigh NC 27604
Coquette – French Restaurant
Want to get transported to France for dinner? Check out Coquette! It is a beautiful little bistro that has some truly delicious food. While it is on the pricier side, it is absolutely a wonderful place for a date night. You’ll absolutely want to make reservations. The food will also transport you to your dream French vacation. I loved the Moules Frites. I will never be someone who recommends Brussels sprouts, but in this instance, you MUST get them. Finally, end the night with a creme brulee.
Address: 4351 The Circle At North Hills Street, Raleigh, NC
Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar
For a more upscale Italian experience, head to Mulino. While the outside may seem unassuming, it is absolutely gorgeous inside. There is a wonderful courtyard to sit in and enjoy dinner. It is truly a spot for locals to eat at in Raleigh. The beautiful courtyard and restaurant have incredible food as well. There are truly so many options, and don’t forget to ask which wine pairs best with your dish.
Address: 309 N. Dawson Street Raleigh, NC 27603
Where do Best Dessert in Raleigh?
La Horchateria
For a Latin twist on desserts, this is the place to go! Locals in Raleigh eat here for a variety of Mexican-inspired desserts. Ranging from churros to mini pancakes La Horchateria has many great options. The mini pancakes with dulce de leche (caramel) are by far our favorite. Of course, while you’re here, you should try an agua fresca or horchata! That is what this dessert spot is known for.
Address: 2261 New Hope Church Rd Raleigh, NC 27604
lucettegrace
lucettegrace is a contemporary patisserie found in downtown Raleigh. They offer freshly baked pastries every day with some of the most decadent croissants and chocolate goodies. This patisserie also makes macrons. They offer salty croissants as well as dessert pastries. Finally, lucettegrace also has lunch options if you’re looking for something more substantial.
Address: 235 Salisbury Street Raleigh, North Carolina 27601
Andia’s Ice Cream
We love this handmade ice cream so much that we had them cater the dessert at our wedding! Each month, Andia’s Ice Cream unveils new monthly flavors. The Double Dark Chocolate is a staple must try along with the Salted Caramel and the Peanut Butter Fudge. Finally, we recommend doing the flight of ice cream so you can try the monthly flavors and the staples.
Address: 2201 Iron Works Drive, Suite 129, Raleigh, NC
Two Roosters Ice Cream
Made with milk from local cows and other local ingredients, Two Roosters Ice Cream is a local ice cream shop with tons of delicious options. They have many “forever flavors” and a bunch of rotating monthly flavors. Additionally, they offer dairy-free options. It is truly a local favorite to eat ice cream in Raleigh.
Address:
Layered Croissanterie
Do you love croissants? Us too! So when we learned of a bakery that only makes croissants we had to run to check it out. I can confidently say run, don’t walk to Layered Croissanterie. Better yet, pre-order your croissant so you don’t miss out. They run out nearly immediately of most croissants nearly every day. They are all freshly baked daily. Additionally, they have monthly specials that means you need to go every month to try the new creations.
Address: 911 N West Street, Raleigh, NC
Videri Chocolate Factory
Found near downtown Raleigh, Videri Chocolate Factory is not only a great place to eat chocolate but also a fun chocolate factory tour. Inside the factory, there is an ice cream shop and coffee shop. We talked about the coffee shop above, but the ice cream and chocolate shop is a great place for dessert. They offer freshly made truffles, bonbons, and chocolate bars. Finally, the ice cream is also made in-house with their chocolate.
Address: 327 W. Davie Street, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27601
The Little Blue Bakehouse
The Little Blue Bakehouse had the cool idea of offering a kitchen and space to multiple small businesses. Each small business offers a variety of popular local desserts to eat in Raleigh. Each shop bakes its own fresh goodies in the bakehouse. There are macarons, ice cream, and some incredible cookies!
Address: 2116-H New Bern Avenue, Raleigh, NC
Goodberry’s
One of the most popular ice cream and frozen concrete stands in the Triangle area. You walk up to the Goodberry’s stand and then order your food. There are tables and chairs outside to enjoy the concretes. They have chocolate and vanilla as well as seasonal daily/monthly flavors. They generally have a calendar so you know what to expect. My favorite is Almond Delight, but it has chocolate instead of vanilla. Larry prefers the Strawanna.
Address: Multiple throughout Raleigh
Final Thoughts About The Best Restaurants In Raleigh
Raleigh truly has so many options for restaurants to eat in. There are so many different varieties of restaurants as well. While it can be really hard to narrow down the restaurants for a trip we do have some favorites we recommend. Our top ice cream has to be Andia’s Ice cream. For restaurants we highly recommend Cowfish, The Farmer’s Market Restaurant, Relish, and Taverna Agora. For breakfast my favorite has to be The Optimist- Raleigh and Michael’s English Muffins. Raleigh can really be a paradise for all foodies.
