Best Restaurants in Raleigh, NC

As the capital city of North Carolina, Raleigh has transformed into a gastronomic paradise, catering to the desires of food enthusiasts from all around the world. Home to several accomplished chefs and a diverse population, the restaurants in Raleigh offer a unique blend of local and global flavors. The city offers everything from imaginative, high-end restaurants to traditional and well-loved dining options, and international cuisine representing different parts of the world.

Whether you're a resident or a visitor, Raleigh's food scene is a must-try. With this comprehensive list of the best restaurants in Raleigh, NC, you can discover the top dining destinations that suit your palate. Get ready to savor some of the most exquisite food and dining experiences in Raleigh, and embark on a culinary journey like no other.

A legendary Raleigh restaurant established in 1960, Angus Barn has earned the reputation of being a "meat lover's paradise." With almost 20,000 steaks served per month, the restaurant has rightfully earned its nickname and place in our best restaurants in Raleigh, NC line-up. This fine-dining establishment offers its patrons a choice of nine different cuts of steak, all prepared to perfection and served with classic steakhouse sides.

Over its more than 60 years of service, Angus Barn has expanded its menu to accommodate the diverse preferences of the Raleigh community. It now offers an array of seafood dishes and even vegetarian-friendly options. Although the perfectly cooked steaks receive high praise from recent patrons, the staff's professionalism, attentiveness, and cordiality stand out the most. Customers, from solo diners to groups of up to 25, speak highly of the friendly demeanor of the staff.

For more than three decades, Big Ed's has been a beloved fixture of Raleigh City Market's downtown area. Established in 1989, this charming eatery is renowned for its comforting country-style breakfasts that are sure to satisfy.

While all three of Big Ed's locations serve "country cookin' classics," the City Market location is particularly notable for its authentic farm country ambiance, providing guests with a unique and memorable dining experience. However, be prepared to join the line when you arrive, as the restaurant does not accept reservations. Despite the crowds, recent diners have commented that the service is excellent, and the line moves quickly.

Big Ed's commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients is one of the reasons why it has become a crowd favorite in Raleigh. The restaurant's menu boasts an array of traditional breakfast items, including fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked eggs. For those looking for something a little more indulgent, Big Ed's serves up classics like biscuits and gravy and chicken and waffles.

This renowned restaurant offers an authentic taste of the mountainous region of northern Lebanon. The restaurant's origins might come as a surprise to visitors, as it started as a humble wholesale bread company back in 1977. The Saleh brothers founded this family-run business, which has grown significantly over the past four decades, now boasting several locations throughout the area.

The name "Neomonde" signifies the Saleh family's new beginning in America, representing a fresh start in a new world. The restaurant offers a casual and welcoming deli atmosphere, where visitors can indulge in generous portions of delicious Middle Eastern cuisine. The small Mediterranean grocery located within the restaurant offers visitors the chance to purchase traditional staples of Middle Eastern cooking.

For those looking to sample a variety of dishes, Neomonde Mediterranean's platter options come highly recommended. Guests rave about the fresh hummus, baklava, and house-baked pita, among other menu items. With its cozy ambiance and mouth watering food, it's no surprise that Neomonde Mediterranean has become a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike.

If you're a fan of oysters, 42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill is a must-visit restaurant in Raleigh. This restaurant has been an area landmark since the 1930s when it was first opened as a grocery store that served oysters and draft beer. While it was a favorite among the locals for decades, it was not until 1987 that it became the renowned seafood restaurant it is today.

Nowadays, 42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill is one of Raleigh's premier seafood restaurants, with rave reviews from recent patrons who love its culinary offerings and especially fresh oysters. In addition to fresh shucked oysters, the restaurant offers a specially designed drink menu that includes wine pairings to match your meal. If oysters aren’t your favorite, don't worry, the restaurant also serves shellfish, seafood, and steaks, as well as a gluten-free menu.

Guests who have visited this restaurant highly recommend making a reservation to avoid lengthy wait times for tables. 42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill is an excellent option for a special occasion or a romantic dinner offering a welcoming atmosphere, excellent service, and delectable dishes.

For vegetarians and vegans, Fiction Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant in downtown Raleigh. This top-rated restaurant offers entirely vegan cuisine from a 100% vegan kitchen, making it a perfect dining option for those with dietary restrictions.

Fiction Kitchen is renowned for its delicious Carolina-style meatless barbecue, a rare find in Raleigh. The restaurant caters to a variety of dietary restrictions with many gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free dishes available on the menu. In addition to the mouth-watering food, Fiction Kitchen also offers a variety of vegan cocktails to pair with your meal.

Whether you're a vegetarian or a vegan, Fiction Kitchen provides an exceptional dining experience.

Raleigh is a foodie's paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants offering a plethora of culinary experiences. From classic southern dishes to global cuisine, there is something to satisfy every taste bud in this vibrant city. But Raleigh is not just a great place to dine out — it's also a fantastic place to call home. If you're looking to buy in the area, you'll want to work with the best real estate experts in the Triangle area to help navigate the competitive market.

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Whether you are looking for a Raleigh townhome, condo, or single-family property, with their knowledge and experience, you can rest assured it is a stressful process. Contact Sharon Evans today and let her help you find your dream home in the Triangle area!