Take our city’s storied culinary powerhouse Angus Barn. “In 1970, you couldn’t go to Angus Barn without a jacket and tie on,” reflects a longtime patron of the dining room (note the Turkey Lounge is a whole different animal). “Fine-dining meant fine clothes too. To me, it was like going to church—you had to have on your Sunday best.”
While the Barn hasn’t required coats in years, that doesn’t mean they dropped a dress code altogether. “The current code is the same as pre-pandemic. It hasn’t changed,” according to Angus Barn, of its ”as nice as you like or business casual” policy. But in a society growing ever more casual, hence the polite reminder on their website that “we are reinstating our dress code.”
But as the Barn holds fast to its dress code, many other establishments are loosening (or lacking) one altogether—or even encouraging diners to come casual. Take stylish longtime Raleigh standout Margaux’s, whose website flat encourages showing up in “your most relaxed outfit.”
Then there’s quirky “come-as-you-are” Stanbury, purposefully pairing its elevated plates with any kind of attire. “We don’t have a dress code,” says owner Joseph Jeffers of the approachable environs. “It’s more eclectic and what people are comfortable in—we might have a table of people in tuxedos with someone in jean shorts at the table beside them. We like for it to be something for everybody and want people to be able to drop in on a whim.”
But it goes beyond your clothing. In a society seeking to fit in, the debate is also about assimilating with other diners. “There’s a desire to fit in [when dining out]—but you don’t want to feel overdressed either,” shares one seasoned diner. “If I was at East End Bistrot or somewhere similar and saw someone wearing gym clothes, I might wonder what they were doing there—but it wouldn’t affect my experience.”
That said, East End Bistrot’s executive chef William D’Auvray notes the establishment doesn’t dictate a dress code on purpose. “We like for people to come in what they deem appropriate,” he says. “If people ask, we say business casual to let them know a coat and tie are not required. Ultimately, it’s about the experience—being offended by what someone else is wearing is archaic to me.”
In querying dozens of Raleigh diners, the take is divided. Many applaud the evolution toward casual clothing: “Dress codes are antiquated and only end up confusing or excluding people,” says one local diner. “You shouldn’t have to wear a suit and tie to get a great meal.”
But there are dissenters who prefer they—and those around them—fit the vibe in terms of apparel. “If you’re out for dinner while sitting next to people dripping from the gym, the food doesn’t taste as good,” laments another regular restaurantgoer we spoke to. “You feel like you got ready for a special occasion—and the lazy apparel of others kills that buzz.”
Concurs another: “Others’ dress definitely has an effect on restaurant experience. What you’re wearing should fit the vibe. If the space is elevated, the people who fill the space should also be elevated.” Clearly, dining dress—and expectations—continues to evolve, with perspectives all over the map. Looks like only time will tell what patrons might don for dinner in 2035.
If you eat food, this feature is for you. Raleigh is reeling with a ream of restaurants ranging from reliable to rare—all stacked with palatable plates, esteemed service and appetizing surrounds. A boon for local diners—and the most difficult of decisions for discriminating editors. After a year eating our way through all corners of the city, our talented taste buds were put to the test time and time again. After a lot of dining—and even more debate—we present to you our 2023 cast of 25 Best Restaurants, including Restaurant of the Year, Best New Restaurant and five suburb standouts. Dramatically different from last year, the result is a diverse list sure to please all palates, budgets and preferences. Because we believe a restaurant requires some seasoning to earn a “Best” accolade, we required restaurants to be open by May 1 for consideration. Here, where to book your reservations for every occasion and no occasion at all.
2023 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR STANBURY
MODERN AMERICAN CUISINE 938 N. Blount St. Seaboard & Person Street District
To put it frankly, Stanbury is a unicorn. The fact of the matter is, you’re not going to find playful plates like the ones Stanbury chef/owner Drew Maykuth dishes at any other restaurant in Raleigh—period. Whether it’s Asian-inspired fried oysters or elevated grilled peaches so good you won’t be able to eat peaches any other way, there’s a reason locals line up nightly the second the space opens—and have been since the always-busy space bowed with its ever-rotating menu in 2013. And it’s those dynamic spins on everyday dishes—merged with that “garage-chic” attitude that isn’t trying to be anything other than exactly what it is—that keeps them coming back. And what makes this off-the-beaten-path elevated-yet-approachable hidden gem our 2023 Restaurant of the Year. Because the best way to go about dining at Stanbury is not to question dining there at all. Instead, relish it, savor it, devour it—because you will want to go back in for seconds.stanburyraleigh.com
Photo by Forrest Mason, courtesy of East End Bistrot
BEST NEW RESTAURANT East End Bistrot
FRENCH FINE DINING 2020 Progress Court, Ste. 110 Five Points
More theater than just dinner, grabbing a seat at Giorgios Bakatsias’ luxe Parisian-inspired eatery is a culinary love affair. And with elegant dishes from executive chef William D’Auvray like blue crab puffs; crudo; the “true” ribeye; and chilled Senegalese soup (originally a special that we gushed over so much the East End team added it to the menu!), the restaurant will certainly win over your stomach. Whether seated in the stunning dining room (think white tablecloths, velvet booths, colorful wallpaper, and whimsical murals and art), at the fully stocked bar or on the greenery-filled patio, you’ll forget you’re still in NC. Setting a new precedent for dining in the City of Oaks, it should come as no surprise that East End Bistrot earned Best New Restaurant—what with its exceptional fare, fanciful design and decor, extensive fine wine list, and impeccable service. The elevated respite almost immediately became both a go-to special-occasion spot for diners and a welcome Tuesday recess on the Champagne Terrace for bubbles paired with fries, oysters and other light bites. eastendbistrotraleigh.com
Richard Barlow Photography, courtesy of Vidrio
Vidrio
MEDITERRANEAN 500 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 100 Glenwood South
Vidrio is the moment. The first thing that catches your attention upon walking into this stunner of a resto is, naturally, the gigantic wall of cylindrical colorful handblown glass pieces—the oasis’ statement fixture and the most picture-perfect backdrop for an extraordinary dinner out. Rooted in the Mediterranean dining philosophy of communal sharing, the menu is made for splitting among the table, with each dish boasting fresh, seasonal ingredients. Pro tip: The artisanal mafaldine pasta, short rib and cast-iron-seared salmon are absolute musts. Of course, no Mediterranean meal is complete without wine—and Vidrio has plenty of it (think 48 varietals on tap and over 300 bottles). vidrioraleigh.com
Photo by May Caudillo, courtesy of Cortez
CORTEZ
LATIN SEAFOOD 413 Glenwood Ave. Glenwood South
The vibes are always right at this tropical oasis—like its own little island amid Glenwood South, serving up vibrant and refreshing food, drinks and atmosphere. Pro tip: You’re gonna wanna post up on the jungle-like patio. The local seafood-focused menu by executive chef/partner Oscar Diaz is the main draw—especially the likes of oysters, charred octopus, and gambas al ajillo (aka shell-on shrimp in a garlic-butter-lemon sauce). But don’t sleep on the land dishes either—think grilled hanger steak; bread + weed butter (that’s seaweed, FYI); and a juicy double smash burger (our Best Burgers Issue cover star for a reason)… or the colorful cocktails for that matter. To really take your dining experience to new heights, head upstairs to Cortez’s sister bar Cuya for some after-dinner drinks and dancing. Island time: activated. cortezraleigh.com
MULINO
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN 309 N. Dawson St. Capital District
Transport your taste buds—and the rest of your senses—to Tuscany on Mulino’s tranquil poolside flora-filled patio, Aperol spritz in hand, as you tour your way through the Italian countryside via unmatched selects by executive chef/owner Samad Hachby and chef de cuisine Paul Headley. Just make sure you allot enough time to make your way through the menu. … We recommend ordering a pizza for the table before diving into the housemade pastas (they’re all *chef’s kiss*, but our faves are the risotto of the day and the gnocchi), all the while enjoying a bottle or two of vino for the perfect pairing. And be sure to save room for dessert, even if it’s in drink form—the After Midnight cocktail, Mulino’s take on an espresso martini, is arguably the sweetest way to end your meal.mulinoraleigh.com
Crawford and Son; Jessica Crawford
CRAWFORD AND SON
MODERN AMERICAN 618 N. Person St. Seaboard & Person Street District
Crawford and Son is a shoo-in no matter how you spin it. At this 2022 RM Restaurant of the Year, the Person Street position beckons with its purposefully casual-cool come-as-you-are vibe. The quaint table-dotted space is dark and moody—in the best way. The long bar that extends the vertical space is vibey and worth a dine for a front-row seat to true craftsmanship. And the food—well, the food is flawless. (Pro tip: Always order the staple melt-in-your-mouth manchego-herb biscuits.) Honestly, chef/owner and five-time James Beard Award semifinalist Scott Crawford’s premiere concept and his A-list team—including Culinary Director Conor Delaney and chef de cuisine Aaron Salita—could easily win ROY every year with their frequently rotating cast of refined-yet-approachable Southern-inspired fresh selects. We hear Michelin calling… crawfordandsonrestaurant.com
Photo by Rachel Herbst, Five Star
FIVE STAR
MODERN CHINESE 301 N. West St. Smoky Hollow
A little fusion, a little funky, Five Star is not your average American Chinese spot—it’s a vibe. If you’re old enough to remember “hide your cats” receipts and DJs spinning in its OG Warehouse District digs (nee 2000), then you know. If not, luckily, fresh and modern authentic Chinese cuisine still reigns supreme in its vibrant art-covered Smoky Hollow space, where owner Michelle Bender’s Taiwanese roots shine via transformative takes by chef de cuisine Domi Castro. Dig into the likes of spicy beef with noodles, pork dumplings, kung pao chicken, and salt + pepper calamari. Or, for a mind-altering moment, order the Thai peanut chicken noodles—you’re welcome. And, don’t worry, you’ll still find those DJs turning tables—only now, you just might recognize a famous one fueling the spirited vibe.fivestarsnc.com
SONO
ASIAN/JAPANESE 319 Fayetteville St., Ste. 101 Fayetteville Street District
Before there was Sono, there was a sleepy Fayetteville Street serving as a pedestrian mall. Not long after the corridor reopened to traffic to revitalize the DTR core, the authentic swank sushi spot bowed in 2008 inside the historic Hudson condo building—and has stood the test of time ever since… no small thanks to all those screaming O’s. With executive chef Hyun-Woo Kim at the helm churning out umami sushi (Crunchy Diablo and Pink Floyd are musts), fresh nigiri and sashimi selects featuring myriad varieties of fish from around the world, not to mention the slurpable ramen, clearly, Sono is on a roll—hence the upcoming second location in Cary, expected to bow early next year. Pro tip: For the full Sono experience, splurge on the eight-course omakase chef’s selection. … You won’t regret it. sonoraleigh.com
Photo by Lauren Vied Allen, courtesy of Poole’s
POOLE’S
NEW AMERICAN COMFORT FOOD 426 S. McDowell St. Fayetteville Street District
Sitting in a booth in this cozy-casual 1945 pie shop-turned-phenom diner of the same name restored by culinary legend Ashley Christensen16 years ago feels like a warm hug from your mom at a lunch counter. The “modern diner with reimagined comfort food” with its double-horseshoe bar, red leather banquettes, Lucite chairs and signature charm brought us in (and took us back in time)—while the Southern staples (nod to that cult-classic macaroni au gratin) and two-time Beard-winning chef/owner keep us coming back. Elevating more than our palates, Poole’s plays up the fresh and authentic with its rotating cast of Southern staples chalked up on the signature chalkboard menu and executed ever so brilliantly by chef Dave Ellis.ac-restaurants.com/pooles
Wye Hill Hospitality
WYE HILL KITCHEN
MODERN AMERICAN 201 S. Boylan Ave. Warehouse District
Dubbed for its iconic position at the wye railroad junction beneath the Boylan Bridge and serving up the best vistas of the city bar-none, Wye Hill is so much more than just Raleigh’s favorite patio. It serves as a hip hangout for “people, plates and pours,” with its inventive award-winning 100% local grain beer (and seltzer!) releases drawing in eternal hoptimists to swing by for a bev or two, only to then be tempted to stick around and enjoy the “damn delightful” brunch, lunch and dinner menus. And Raleighites can’t get enough—especially when it comes to the Farmer’s Burger, Everything Brussels, shrimp and grits, BBQ fries, and the Wye Hill Breakfast Sandwich served with Mama Teresa’s Hot Sauce (you’ll want to buy it by the bottle). And a seat outside is highly recommended, if not necessary. wyehill.com
Albright Studio, courtesy of ORO
ORO
GLOBAL TAPAS 18 E. Martin St. Fayetteville Street District
Take the 2001: A Space Odysseyneoclassical-style chic white bedroom—but make it a foodie and cocktail phenom + LabOROtory for the senses and you get ORO. The innovative two-story small plates spot has been delivering on dishes, drinks and cityscape views nonpareil for over a decade via its floor-to-ceiling window surrounds—a veritable fishbowl and primo vantage point from inside the PNC Building. At the hands of executive chef/co-owner Chris Hylton and co-executive chef Kevin Ruiz, the latter of Rockford and Bendito fame, fine flavors are executed flawlessly across seasonally rotating majestic manifestations with mad range—from Garden (honestly close your eyes and point) to Land (roasted duck breast will awe you) to Sea (torched Hawaiian yellowtail elicits serious island vibes). And oenophiles will delight not only in the rare 17-foot corner conveyer wine rack, but in the new Wine Wednesdays. Saluti! ororaleigh.com
Jolie, Jessica Crawford
JOLIE
MODERN FRENCH 620 N. Person St. Seaboard & Person Street District
If joie de vivre is what you’re after, consider it found—in multiple aspects—at Scott Crawford’s quintessential Parisian bistro. From the lively yet intimate atmosphere to the classic, time-honored dishes (plus some modern adaptations) to the curated wine list, Jolie delivers a certain je ne sais quoi transported straight from France. For the most authentic dining experience, head to “Le Rooftop” and order up bread (natch), escargot, onion soup, duck confit—and keep the vino coming. Or park it at one of the sidewalk tables with fries and a glass of bubbly from the Champagne window to really live out your Parisian fantasies. restaurantjolie.com
HAYES BARTON CAFE & DESSERTERY
CLASSIC AMERICAN CUISINE 2000 Fairview Road Five Points
Post-war era diner and postmodern cuisine collide in this quaint 1940s-esque staple that’s been serving up fine food and feel-good simplicity for 25 years. One step inside onto the authentic black-and-white checkerboard-floor and past the made-fresh-daily cake display case is at once nostalgic and vibey—as is dining among the Greatest Generation (see the photo-plastered walls). The huge helpings of quintessential classics keep bringing us back to “Dial M for Meatloaf”—not unlike the staff, many of whom have been with HBC over a decade, if not two. Just make sure to grab a cake slice for the road—the lemon blueberry with cream cheese icing is life-changing. hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com
VINNIE’S STEAKHOUSE & TAVERN
SOUTHERN STEAKHOUSE & SEAFOOD 7440 Six Forks Road North Raleigh
If Al Pacino frequented a steakhouse—it would be this one. Serving both nostalgia and class since 1987 to VIPs and regulars alike, steak is the star of the show at this apropos white-tablecloth-dotted dark wooden wall-adorned haven dubbed for the famous Vince McMahon—the founder and operator of World Wrestling Entertainment, with whom former owner Dusty Anderson went to school. Mood lighting and vintage leather chairs create the ideal ambience for unparalleled meaty masterpieces, served a la carte with dealer’s choice sides: creamed spinach, homemade mashed potatoes, mac and cheese… and the perfect pairing for wine cellar selects. Complimentary deviled eggs let you know you’re in for an exceptional experience while homemade desserts leave you with a sweet finish. And come late spring, be sure to save room for chef/GM Tom Armstrong’s legendary handmade honeysuckle ice cream—or take home a pint or two to savor throughout the year.vinniessteakhouse.com
Photo by Food Seen, courtesy of Mandolin
MANDOLIN
NC CUISINE 2519 Fairview Road Five Points
Serving nostalgia at its finest, Mandolin is somewhat of a playground for chef/owner Sean Fowler. A full-circle moment, Fowler’s farm-to-table spot formerly housed the Johnson’s Pharmacy he frequented during childhood for grilled cheeses and limeades at the lunch counter. Now, reclaiming his roots, the seasoned chef blends Southern flair and global flavor into rotating fresh takes on comfort dishes like NC oysters, pork short rib with Cheerwine-baked peas, chicken and waffles, sweet tea panna cotta, and skillet cornbread—to name a few noshworthy eats on the menu—in an elevated yet cozy atmosphere. Feels a bit like home, no?mandolinraleigh.com
Photo by Sarah Santora, courtesy of Hummingbird
HUMMINGBIRD
NEW ORLEANS-INSPIRED 1053 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Ste. 111 Five Points
Roll up on this delectable diner-esque and unassuming New Orleans oasis in the emerging Iron District’s Dock 1053 for flavor and flair that keeps the good times goin’ beyond the Louisiana border. And as all brunchers know, the midday meal is best enjoyed in the colorful atmosphere or alfresco-style on the veranda—but the bright and airy bar makes for a perfect perch for a more casual outing. When you’re done feasting with your eyes, make your way to the always-on-point creative cuisine by chef/owner Coleen Speaks and chef de cuisine Estela Vasquez. Fact: The comforting chicken and waffles never miss the mark. And while we all go bananas for brunch, the Southern dinnertime selects also seriously slap. See: the smoked marinated oysters, ’za and fan-fave Peacemaker Po’boy—plus, the house cocktails are truly spectacular. Simply put, the proof is in the (brioche bread) pudding. Altogether why Hummingbird is always, well, humming with guests who just can’t seem to get enough.hummingbirdraleigh.com
COQUETTE BRASSERIE
CLASSIC BRASSERIE FAIRE (FRENCH) 4351 The Circle at North Hills Street Midtown
C’est la vie! Take your senses on a trip to Paris via North Hills’ luxe French brasserie featuring open-air bistro seating, large windows and classy cafe vibes—aka the next best thing to the City of Love. Tuck into hors d’oeuvres and entrees masterminded by executive chef Michael Monahan oozing with European flair and flavor—from the seafood crepes and escargot to truffle frites and rotating charcuterie selects. And for brunch, don’t miss the brie, bacon, caramelized onion and sunny side-up egg-topped burger served on a croissant. Trust us, it’ll blow your mind. coquetteraleigh.com
Photo by Anna Routh Brazin, courtesy of St. Roch
ST. ROCH
NEW ORLEANS 223 S. Wilmington St. Moore Square District
The “cliche-free New Orleans cuisine” at chef/owner Sunny Gerhart’s oyster bar + restaurant might not be exactly what you’d expect—but that’s the point. Dubbed for his childhood St. Roch Avenue address and serving as a love letter to his Louisiana roots via a playful homage, St. Roch—which formerly housed Gerhart’s mentor Ashley Christensen’s coffee shop/restaurant concept Joule—highlights seafood in a myriad of ways, whether raw, roasted, fried, smoked, BBQ’d or even in a Bolognese sauce (see the fan-fave hearty gator Bolognese). But it’s the kitschy decor, lively atmosphere and friendly service that really make this NOLA tribute feel like home. For primo people-watching, snag a seat in the glass window boxes lining the entrance, settle into a cozy brick-wall-lined booth with conversation-starter art views—or, tuck away for an alfresco affair on the little-known back patio. strochraleigh.com
SECOND EMPIRE
AMERICAN CONTEMPORARY CUISINE 330 Hillsborough St. Capital District
A dinnertime excursion to the restored DTR Dodd-Hinsdale House at once brings you back in time while setting the scene for a stately dining experience serving elegance and class in all manners. Established in 1997 by Ted Reynolds and now helmed by his daughter, Kim, alongside executive chef Daniel Schurr, the circa 1879 historic abode-turned-fine dining foray echoes an ambiance you might expect to find in a Sherlock Holmes novel. Think brick walls, white tablecloths and polished furniture, plus original heart pine flooring. Schurr’s masterpiece meals serve only to complement that elevated atmosphere via seasonally rotating dinner plates. The roasted Hudson Valley duck breast delights, while every seafood dish will impress—and what they do with salmon will move you. The decadent dessert creations are a sweet finishing touch—paired perfectly with a nightcap in the cozy, cigar lounge-esqe Tavern (Second Empire’s “restaurant within a restaurant”). With an equally excellent staff to match, this reincarnated Raleigh relic continues to dazzle diners, staying steadfast in sustenance and service as our city grows and evolves around it. … May the empire live on. second-empire.com
A dinner at this authentic, eclectic staple combines the energy of a chaotic family reunion with an intimate meal—it’s fun, it’s cozy, it’s cluttered yet curated, and it’s just plain good. Originally established in 1991 by Carlos Salamanca after his vast Mexico explorations, this City of Oaks institution has maintained the same spunk and spirit it’s flaunted from the start under the expert eye of Salamanca’s daughter, Pamela, who took the reins in 2015. Delve into the mouthwatering Mexican fare by chef/co-owner German Bobadilla: The steak tacos have achieved icon status, and you simply must dip into the best-in-town cheese dip—aka liquid gold—and guac, both delivered by train! And since no Mexican meal is complete without a margarita, sip on the Triangle’s first—and so far, only—soft-serve margarita. Or just cheers with a shot of one of the specialty tequilas. You honestly can’t go wrong. On your way out, don’t forget to wave goodbye to the colorful resto’s parking lot pet chickens and grab a complimentary batch of eggs from the minifridge (!). Pro tip: Make a rez online to avoid the inevitable long line! dostaquitosraleigh.com
Photo by Offline Raleigh, courtesy of J. Betski’s
J. BETSKI’S
CENTRAL EUROPEAN 1916 Bernard St. Five Points
Back and better than ever, J. Betski’s new locale in Highpark Village, which bowed earlier this year following the closure of its Seaboard Station outpost, holds up in terms of food, atmosphere and service. An order of the famed pierogies—our fave are the mushroom and three cheese—are all the proof you need. To wit, the new space feels warm yet modern… From the lively bar tucked in the back to the rollup garage doors that welcome a breeze on a nice day to the intimate patio out front, J. Betski’s 2.0 is a refreshing change from the old-school digs usually reserved for special occasions. Rest assured, standout dishes from the original East and Central European menu remain, though chef/owner John F. Korzekwinski and chef Travis Davis have fashioned the new menu into more of a small/middle-size plate format. Added fare including the likes of the pierogi burger wow, while new plays on past dishes and rotating favorites (think ginger fried chicken, Jagerschnitzel) further up the ante for devoted diners. And be on the lookout for beer/craft cocktail and food pairing tasting events soon. jbetskis.com
Close your eyes and point to any day on the calendar and this culinary powerhouse is packed with the buzz of local regulars, teens nabbing their first taste (say—sweet 16, graduation), couples writing their engagement story, colleagues carousing in the Wild Turkey Lounge or a duo who drove hours to savor the flavor and the experience. And really nothing screams noteworthy more than a restaurant that opens its reservations (and sometimes books out) 365 days in advance. Whether it’s the barn itself, the impeccable white-tablecloth service, or the famed food long-helmed by recently deceased Iron Chef Walter Royal—or even the bathrooms (trust us, they’re a thing)—Angus Barn brings class to cuisine. And it has since the day it bowed in 1960 as the brainchild of Thad Eure Jr., now owned and operated by daughter Van Eure. And while you may be drawn in by the steak (Angus is in the name after all, and you’re seated in a barn), the seafood selects, salads, pastas and beyond are just as extraordinary. P.S. Always save room for the dessert cart (our rec: in the famed words of Billy Crystal… pecan pieeee.) angusbarn.com
Carolina Stamey, courtesy of Bloomsbury Bistro
BLOOMSBURY BISTRO
NEW AMERICAN 509 W. Whitaker Mill Road, Ste. 101 Five Points
“Everything you love about fine dining, without the hype”—plus all the history. Cross the threshold of this quaint Five Points bistro, where its motto perfectly embodies Raleigh’s first ITB foray into elevated cuisine, serving dignitaries, daters and neighbors alike since 1995. Whether lingering over fine wine for a white-tablecloth dinner against expressionistic paintings by nationally renowned NC artist Ellen Hathaway or mixing it up for a more casual affair at the bar, the elegant yet unfussy bistro finesses an epic epicurean experience every time—via the likes of a Bar Plate (spin on charcuterie) or the Bloomsbury Bouillabaisse. Long helmed by legend-in-his-own-right John Toler, the revered former owner said au revoir in 2020 when he passed the favored French-inspired New American bistro into the capable hands of friend chef/owner Stephen Koster (who had held many of his own celebrations here—including his wedding rehearsal dinner). Carrying the classic bistro into the next era, Koster’s sentimental and savory spins pay tribute to the distinguished eatery while adding innovative original riffs that keep us coming back. bloomsburybistro.com
Julia Wade, courtesy of Brewery Bhavana
BREWERY BHAVANA
DIM SUM 218 S. Blount St. Moore Square
Dinnertime transforms into an arrival at a long-awaited travel destination when you settle into your simplistically designed seat at the nirvana that is Bhavana. Sample your way through its signature (and simply divine) dim sum amid the lush garden eatery-meets-sleek bookstore, an ambiance that manages to nail the magic combination of appeasing the eyes while endlessly appealing to the appetite. Truly a tour of the senses, Bhavana has showcased its breathtaking backdrops, blooms and elevated Far East fare for six years and counting—and with the addition of executive chef Chun Shi, we can only expect the outwardly unassuming Moore Square gem to keep the bao buns and handcrafted brews coming—along with droolworthy selections such as the nasi goreng crab fried rice or pork belly rice cakes. Stomach: full + happy place: found. brewerybhavana.com
CUCCIOLO TERRAZZA
ITALIAN 4200 Six Forks Road, Ste. 100 Midtown
Every meal feels like a luxurious dinner party at this mod North Hills Italian restaurant, which earned our title of Best New Restaurant last year—and raves continue to roll in. The chic space feels at once Milan and New York City, but thanks to its friendly staff and comforting dishes, you’ll feel just like you’re at grandma’s table. But this ain’t your Italian grandmother’s Sunday gravy. Instead, you’ll find the likes of elk Bolognese, wild boar agnolotti, and sweet pea and rabbit balanzoni gracing the menu, complemented by a breadth of tantalizing contemporary takes on Italian fare. Gather a group so you have an excuse to be seated in the intimate wine cellar with control of your own speakers—and to better share more dishes, natch. Oh, and just because you wouldn’t normally think to go to an Italian restaurant for brunch doesn’t mean you shouldn’t (*wink, wink*). cuccioloraleigh.com
Best Burb Restaurants
THE PROVINCIAL
AMERICAN 119 N. Salem St. Apex
When you’re here, you’re family—and a very well-fed one at that. “Fresh and simple” ground every inch of this family-owned intimate Apex eatery whose quaint small-town location is juxtaposed with daily menus rotating artisanal spins on classic selects, a bar program that will have you checking your GPS, and a cast of rollicking regulars that at once make the space lively and lived in. Pro tip: If there’s fish on the menu, we promise you’ll be hooked. theprovincialapex.com
M TEST KITCHEN
MULTICULTURAL 4 Fenton Main St., Ste. 120B Cary
Start with a Michelin-pedigree chef, dab in a gastronomical mastermind with a restaurateur résumé worth its own Michelin review, mix in masterfully curated ingredients, a chic Fenton locale, top-notch staff, and tantalizing ’tails—and yield this multicultural masterpiece. The brainchild of M Restaurants’ Mike Lee, the area’s first true test kitchen wows at the hands of executive chef Connor Johnson. The ever-rotating menu is a true tour of the senses that will have you rebooking that rez again and again… and again—for every reason and no reason at all.m-restaurants.com
HANK’S DOWNTOWN DIVE
Modern American 111 E. Chatham St., Ste. A Cary
This sleek-meets-casual eatery brings a whole new meaning to the word “dive.” The menu delights with fun fare highlighting local and seasonal ingredients (keep your eye on Insta for specials!), complemented by local brews, an exquisite wine list and draft cocktails. No matter what brings you in—whether a drink, a bite or just a good time—Downtown Cary’s go-to neighborhood hang provides plenty of ops to chill, from the cozy vintage-esque booths to the wraparound bar to the private patio. Dive in! hanksdowntowndive.com
Christy Griffith,
PIMIENTO TEA ROOM
NEW SOUTHERN 200 N. Main St. Holly Springs
Take everything you know about a stereotypical tearoom and squash it. A seat at this quaint and cozy teahouse perfectly fuses the feel of a home-cooked meal at your grandmother’s house (esp if she spikes your tea) with an elevated eating experience. Both the breezy outdoor covered patio and inside the eclectic eatery are an equally charming respite for an order of the eatery’s calling card: signature boozy tea bevs and sammies, natch. pimientotearoom.com
Wye Hill Hospitality
GLASSHOUSE KITCHEN
UPSCALE ECLECTIC 5 Laboratory Drive RTP
A true window into the wonder that is this drop-dead gorgeous establishment from the same hospitality group behind Wye Hill, Glasshouse boasts three sides of floor-to-ceiling windows (hence the name) complete with a canopy of hanging greenery throughout that results in a calming indoor-outdoor feel. Delivering a (literal) fresh perspective to the area, the ’Grammable experience continues with the seasonal food (the pizzas are always a good choice), colorful cocktails and polished wine list. glasshousekitchennc.com
Nothing beats a hot bowl of soup on a winter day. And though I hate the cold, I look forward to #SoupSzn every year (but, tbh, you can also find me downing soup in the summer. Sue me!). This year, I leaned into my soup obsession extra hard to find some of the best bowls in Raleigh. After weeks of sipping, slurping and dunking, here are my top local soup-er stars.
This soup will no doubt have you scraping up every last drop from the bowl. It’s creamy, smooth and a little sweet thanks to the Granny Smith chutney—and you best dig for those rosemary croutons and blue cheese crumbles. bloomsburybistro.com
You could almost even classify this soup as a dip—it’s that thick (get a roll on the side for dipping!). Like your fave broccoli cheese soup counterpart, Cafe Carolina’s rendition is creamy, cheesy and hearty. Panera, who? cafecarolina.com
Everything’s better with cheese, and the amount of cheese on Jolie’s French onion soup is ideal (read: a lot). Underneath the thick layer, you’ll find soft onions in a hearty beef broth and crunchy croutons—altogether resulting in the perfect bite. restaurantjolie.com
Wye Hill takes everything you know and love about a loaded baked sweet potato and puts it into a slurpable soup form (um, yum). The toppings—fried sweet potato skins, country ham crumbles—take it next-level. wyehill.com
Creamy without being too heavy, Relish’s tomato basil soup is perfect for grilled cheese dipping (and the resto has plenty of those from which to choose), or just slurping by the spoonful. Childhood nostalgia, unlocked.relishraleigh.com
I didn’t know why they call it Italian wedding soup (turns out: “marriage” of greens + meat)—but it’s a thing. And you may just wanna marry Bella Monica’s. Starring fresh chicken stock, meatballs, spinach, egg drops and orzo, it’s a hearty yet light savory explosion. bellamonica.com
Bean into the espresso martini rage? Here are some local spots to grab a sip.
Affectionately dubbed “the adult vodka Red Bull,” an espresso martini is all the rage again—originally gaining steam a la ’90s… and now back in an era of popularity serving nostalgic sweetness (plus a shot of energy!). And there’s no signs of the trend tanking anytime soon. This caffeinated alcoholic beverage has the power to wake you up and mess you up at the same time, making it the perf pick-me-up for a night on the town. Here, a few of our fave intoxicating—and delish—iterations at local bars and restos. Cheers!
With gorgeous historic homes, long-standing sup spots, spirited bars and breweries, and more, the historic Five Points district just outside DTR boasts hip old-school Raleigh vibes.
