What do you get when Ben and Jerry’s core pints, Dairy Queen’s dipped cones and TCBY’s toppings join their frozen forces? Something only imagined in your wildest (sweet) dreams… Enter Simons Says Dip This. Founded in Durham in 2021, the scoop shop recently opened a new location in Raleighat Downtown’s Bloc[83] development.
While vanilla soft serve is the only ice cream flavor offering (there’s also a nondairy version), Simons Says is anything but. Cones, cups or ice cream sandwiches can be dunked in 24 different dips—from butterscotch to cake batter to caramel cotton candy—and paired with 30 delectable toppings (think potato chips, pretzels, Oreos and cookie dough). And if you’re after the trifecta, you can also fill the middle of your creation with one of six different cores, which include fudge, pistachio cream and mango. Read: There’s over 2 million possible customizable combinations (!).
The brainchild of husband-and-wife duo Audrey and Nathan Simons, the Raleigh location—which they achieved with the help of Elm Partners—has always been a natural next step for them. And they hit the sweet spot with this one, given its attractive walkability to Glenwood South and Morgan Street Food Hall. Designed with the brand’s signature nostalgic and childlike joy, the City of Oaks outpost will cater to the whole family, complete with a squirrel spring rider that will be placed in the space. Not to mention the walls will be adorned with ’90s-inspired ice cream decor fit for photo ops. And if Simons Says you’re not in the mood for soft serve, a selection of housemade stuffed cookies, freeze-dried candies, soda floats and Simons Says Spread This artisanal will also be on offer. Without a doubt, DTR’s about to get a whole lot sweeter. simonssaysdipthis.com
Weekends were made for brunch. And biscuits. And bloodys—and even mimosa parties… or a coffee because you swore off spirits after a revelrous weekend. A portmanteau of breakfast and lunch, brunch is the best of both—swapping the haste of the two for the one leisurely meal in your week truly made to savor, whether as a hangover savior while decompressing the night before, post-church with the fam, or just an excuse to sip Champagne in the morning. And like dinners out, brunch is a vibe—the right food, service, atmosphere and views make it worthy of a rez and a set calendar event.
So, here, we present the 10 best brunches in Raleigh—bar none. … And, for more morning fare, we’ve got you covered with weekday brekkies, on-the-go biscuits and more to boot. Resting brunch face: on.
Beasley’s If Ashley Christensen is wrong—we don’t wanna be right. The two-time Beard-winning “Darling of Raleigh” puts brunch on notice with this delish recently expanded den of fried chicken + seasonal Southern sides. Keep it classic with biscuits and gravy or go ham with red bean rancheros… and always a side of grits. Plus chicken, obv. After all, birds of a feather cluck together.
Our pick: Hot chicken eggs Benedict over buttermilk biscuits (pro tip: don’t fear the (Carolina) reaper sauce—but if you do, try it on the side) + Lively Brunch rum coffee number. Sat. & Sun., @beasleys_raleigh
Photo by Lauren Vied Allen
Hummingbird Forget “Bumble”—the only buzz we need in cuffing season (and all seasons) is Hummingbird. Find us chained to this year-round Dock 1053 porch—aka chef/owner Coleen Speaks’ always-buzzing masterpiece—for the alfresco brunch affair always worth swiping right for a la staples like banana bread French toast, steak and eggs, and seasonal quiche; adventurous ops like brunch pizza, smoked oysters and huevos rancheros; and Nola riffs on classics like the Peacemaker Po’boy.
Our pick:Chicken & waffle (buttermilk brined for two days (!) and served with maple and hot honey herb butter) + gin & jam.Sat. & Sun.,@hummingbirdral
Photo by Jamie Robbins, courtesy of Hummingbird
Cucciolo Terrazza Italian for breakfast? Say less. Treat yo’self to the likes of spicy rigatoni and pesto campanelle before noon (you only live once, after all)—or stick to the (elevated) basics, including eggs Benedict, steak and eggs, and brioche French toast that’ll send you into the best kind of food coma. … While the stunning surrounds will make you think you jet setted to NYC. While you’re living out your best life, you may as well grab a seat at the bar—and tell the bartender to keep the cocktails coming.
Our pick: The Monte Cristo sando is everything you want at brunch: savory, sweet, creamy and oh-so-delightful.Sat. & Sun., @cuccioloraleigh
Photo courtesy of Cucciolo Terrazza
Whiskey Kitchen Whiskey business, meet brunch business—because a midday grub + bevs sesh on the weekend is always a serious(ly joyous) affair. Nothing but green flags fly at this open-air oasis where the indoor-outdoor vibe—and 365 patio (umbrellas! heaters!)—provides the perf perch to while the day away. Pro tip: Swap the Sunday scaries for a Mimosa Party. Then keep the party going with hearty selects like biscuits and gravy and the Nash Square breakfast sando, or kick off your healthy weekday eating via the chorizo frittata or veggie bowl.
Our pick: For the sweet tooth, we guarantee you’ll leave no crumbs from the pull-apart monkey bread—and the Irish coffee is an obvious pairing. Sat. & Sun.,@whiskey.kitchen
Photo courtesy of Whiskey Kitchen
NOFO @ The Pig If ever there were a reason to ~pig~ out, NOFO’s bangin’ brunch menu is here for it. Chef Dan Gray’s local-leaning Southern farmhouse-fresh selects are worth waiting in line for (because you may—and should). Don’t sleep on the country breakfast—or that stacked breakfast burrito. … And don’t worry, you can sweat off with a lil shopping cardio in the curated upstairs market. It’s called balance, sweetie.
Our pick: Fried green tomato sandwich with NOFO pimento cheese and smoked bacon jam on wheatberry+ a Carolina Float (Cheerwine, vodka, Luxardo and Homeland Creamery vanilla ice cream). Sat. & Sun., @nofo_at_the_pig
Madre Your mother could never offer the immaculate vibe this hip Smoky Hollow outpost delivers come Sunday (sorry not sorry). Grab your squad and settle in within the ’Grammable museumworthy dining room, or opt for a sunny seat outside on the newly upgraded patio (think greenery, string lights and umbrellas). The more pals the merrier, as you’re gonna wanna try alllll the dishes—the burger is a fan-fave, and the salmon lox is brunch goals—and split that Mimosarita pitcher, obv. Liquid brunch, anyone?
Our pick: The hot honey Calabrian chicken and Tepuy Donut is the pairing you never knew you needed but won’t be able to get enough of. … And keep the Mimosaritas coming. Sun., @madreraleigh
Photo by Paul Mehaffey, courtesy of Madre
Coquette Crepes or it didn’t happen. If you’re looking for “Americans in Paris,” look no further than this très chic French institution. Raleighites can’t get enough of the cult-classic quiche and transportive brunch fare—from crepes (natch) to croissant French toast to brie biscuits (!) to eggs Benny—best savored wafting in the summer sun and breeze under the agape floor-to-ceiling windows, or truly alfresco on the patio. It’s giving Emily in Paris—in Raleigh.
Our pick: No matter the time of day, the French onion soup is always worth slurping up + Champs—because France. Sun., @coquetteraleigh
Photo courtesy of Coquette
Relish CraftKitchen & Bourbon Bar/The Kitchen Table Roll the dice on two excellent brunch ops at these sister restos boasting Southern classics with a modern twist. For the OG fam-friendly lived-in homey atmosphere, ~relish~ in dishes like country-fried steak and eggs, French toast bread pudding, and the ’Mater Biscuit. Or, for brunch sandos, biscuits and gravy, chicken and waffles, and the like in hip digs, get your crew on board for The Kitchen Table. Feeling spicy? It doubles as Raleigh’s first board game bar—loser buys a round of mimosas?
Our pick: Both Relish’sand The Kitchen Table’s spicy-sweet chicken biscuits’ll leave you saying Bojangles who?Sat. & Sun., @relishraleigh, @kitchentableraleigh
Photo by Kierra Angell courtesy of The Kitchen Table
Wye Hill This patio lives rent-free in our head. And it serves up supreme skyline vibes year-round within the uberpopular Boylan Bridge brewery and restaurant. Soak up the views while drinking up bloodys and mimosas—and chowing down on superior ops like sweet potato hash, shrimp and grits, and the Wye Hill breakfast sando—or for that one friend who leans more lunch than breakfast, the Morning Glory Burger.
Our pick: That shakshuka will forever have our heart—and stomach. Sat. & Sun., @wyehill
Photo by courtesy of Wye Hill
Irregardless This ain’t your garden variety Sunday spread. If you wrote off Irregardless as strictly vegetarian—well, fake news. Hands down one of the top services in town, this OG “real food” Raleigh institution is dishing a brunch worth writing home about. From “eggs and bowls” like shrimp and grits and brisket hash to waffles and pancakes to “sandwiches and such” (hey, lox brioche, avo toast—and, yes, a vegan burrito), this super-fresh Raleigh mainstay is living up to its “real good” MO.
If you pref to go bottomless, you’ll have to go elsewhere (yay, laws!) but buckets and bottles abound. … Catch flights not feelings with these juicy mimosa selects that are guaranteed to make you get fizzical.
Rosewater Bottle + choice of two flavor ops from orange, grapefruit, cranberry or pineapple
St. Roch Mimosa Party via bottle of bubbly + fresh-squeezed OJ, grapefruit, pineapple or cran
Salt & Lime Mimosa pitchers—or go rogue with Bellini pitchers in pineapple, peach strawberry and blood orange
Don’t sleep on Plates’ specialty coffee truck, Breadbox Coffee, housed on its patio and offering coffee to-go or as part of sit-down dining. Pro tip: For dessert, snag the authentic Turkish coffee and sweet potato & honey baklava. @plateskitchen
Son of a Biscuit
Risk it for the biscuit—these 5 bangin’ biscuits in Raleigh to be exact.
Jubala Too many napkins or it didn’t happen. Highly addictive, these made-from-scratch biscuits bring subtle sweetness to the mix for a choose-your-own-adventure mix-and-match fix—from fresh blueberry compote to housemade pimento cheese BEC and beyond. @jubalacoffee
Big Ed’s Nothing screams Southern like Big Ed’s great-grandfather’s Confederate mess sergeant recipe—and these biscuits promise to slap, whether in sando form or as a comfy side.@bigedsnc
Madre Whipped up with leftover charcuterie bits and served with seasonal jam and butter, these bad boys are, well, worth risking your biscuit for. @madreraleigh
State Farmers Market Restaurant The real deal indeed, these cult-classic homemade fluffy numbers are a staple for a reason. Get ’em with your meal, as a sandwich or slathered in sausage gravy for Southern comfort at its finest. @statefarmersmarketrestaurant
A Place at the Table Three words: Buttermilk. Biscuit. Sandwich. Build your own for a bona fide brekkie that never disappoints. Pro tip: Opt for the cheddar biscuit for a ~cheesy~ morning. @tableraleigh
Hole-in-the-Wall Haven
Pam’s Farmhouse Restaurant The dive bar of breakfast spots—and literally stumbling distance across a shared parking lot from one (s/o The Goat!), this nearly 30-year-old West Raleigh diner is no-frills (blink and you’ll miss it), but well worth the hype. Delivering all the Southern selects you could crave—think fresh country breakfast with the works, omelets, hotcakes, meat biscuits and more—it’s just as clutch for a greasy hangover feast, say, after a night out at The Goat, as a family-friendly weekday morning grub sesh.
Bloody Brilliant
Every bloody wins via this batch of Raleigh’s best.
Wye Hill While Wye’s bloody is made from a secret proprietary recipe, there’s no doubt it’s damn delicious. (We couldn’t keep that part a secret, sorry.) @wyehill
NOFO You can’t truly pig out at brunch unless you order NOFO’s beloved bloody—“housemade to ribbon-winning standards.” @nofo_at_the_pig
St. Roch Garnish game: strong. Is it even a bloody mary if it’s not topped with okra, pickles, olives and lime? The answer is no. Housemade mix with smoked tomatoes and spice don’t hurt either. @strochraleigh
The Mill Where’s the beef (stock)? In The Mill’s Bloody Bull, made with house mix and beef stock with Guinness. Yes, really. @themillraleigh
The Raleigh Times You can and should order the draft beer sidecar with the RTB bloody—topped with a buffet of ingredients, from housepickled green beans and pepperoncini to candied bacon—because, duh. @raleightimesbar
Tazza Kitchen Oven-roasted tomatoes are the star ingredient in TK’s bloody-good, ahem, bloody—jazzed up with pickles, hot sauce, Worcestershire, tomato juice and lemon. @tazzakitchen
Raleigh has no shortage of bangin’ burgers—arguably stacking up against the best burger capitals in the country (comin’ for ya, Dallas). It’s been seven years since Raleigh Magazine crowned the best burgers in town—and a lot has changed on the beefy scene—so we decided it was time to dig in. We had a cow noshing our way through Raleigh’s meatiest masterpieces to suss out everything under the bun and crown our mighty burger kings. If you like big buns and you cannot lie, when it comes to perfect patties, 10 standouts hamburgled our hearts—aka the best burgers you can get our hands on—plus a smattering of walk-up ops, fries, sauces and more worth getting out of bed for. Hungry? Let’s meat up.
1
Neuse River Brewing Co.
NEUSE RIVER BURGER Beer cheese and beef patties—name a better combo, we’ll wait. And add a brew for the perf meat-cute. Inspired by “flavor, flavor, flavor,” says co-owner and COO Jennifer Kolarov, “chef Mark Woodard is maintaining the legacy” of the NRBC burger originally dreamt up by chef Steven Jankowski that continues to achieve insane levels of satisfaction on the daily. The half-pound beef patty with NRBC beer cheese is also topped with roasted garlic aioli, crispy onion strings and housemade pickles on locally made Union Special brioche buns for a flavor bomb worth Gramming about. @neuseriverbrewingco (Photo courtesy of Beck Laster)
DOUBLE SMASH BURGER A pandemic prodigy if you will, chef Oscar Diaz’s double smash burger first popped on the menu in 2020 as a solution to “bomb ass” comfort-food takeout while the dining room was closed—only to become so popular that it became a permanent menu staple. Bless! The smashing success belongs, of course, to the well-seasoned patties smashed as thin as possible—which helps with caramelization—NTM the housemade pickles, American cheese, lettuce and tomato that provide the “perfect grease-to-freshness ratio (that’s an actual measurement),” says Diaz. But the crowning jewel is the secret burger sauce—and though the ingredients are indeed a secret, you should def order extra for dipping. @cortezraleigh (Photo courtesy of May Caudillo)
RANCHERO Spice lovers—this one’s for you. If you can handle the heat, the Ranchero is guaranteed to tickle your taste buds thanks to crispy jalapeno bacon, pepper jack cheese and salsa verde—topped off with a fried egg. MoJoe’s kitchen manager Fidel Herrera Gonzalez garnered inspo for the spicy “sammich” in his family’s salsa verde recipe, finding it paired excellently with the creaminess of the cheese. And since there’s an egg on it, it also counts as breakfast—aka a perf hangover brunch meal that’ll kick ya back into gear after a night out. Feelin’ hot, hot! @mojoesburgers (Photo by Jennifer Robertson)
4
Standard Beer + Food
STANDARD SMASH BURGER “Nothing fancy, no chef required.” If Standard’s, ahem, standard smash burger had a tagline, this would be it. “It’s pretty simple—as it should be,” says operating partner Cov DeRamus. Nevertheless, the burg sure doesn’t skimp on flavor. Made from two quality patties of coarse, ground, high-fat chuck + brisket, the killer handheld delivers on fat, salt, acid and heat—all thanks to thinly shaved Oklahoma-style onions, American cheese, a toasted buttered Martin’s potato bun, and dill pickles. And we can’t forget Standard’s slightly spicy special sauce, which was somewhat inspired by In-N-Out Burger… “because they are the best,” says DeRamus. But trust us, In-N-Out has nothing on these bad boys. @standard_beerfood (Photo courtesy of brand)
5
Wye Hill Brewing
WYE HILL BURGER Beer love and burger love combine in this elite menu op starring a fried green tomato battered with the same local grain Wye uses to brew its award-winning beers. One of the resto’s most popular dishes, the meaty masterpiece is served with bacon, cheddar and Gouda cheeses (the more cheese the merrier!), and a chipotle crema that adds a delicious smokiness in every bite. We won’t say it’s necessary to enjoy this loaded burg with a Wye Hill brew on its treasured patio, but wye the heck wouldn’t you?! @wyehill(Photo by Food Seen)
OLE BLEU BURGER Monday is arguably one of the most important days of the week at Mandolin, as its seasonally rotating burger (also available on the bar menu Monday through Saturday) is only 10 bucks (!). #Steal. The bun in a million changes regularly, but the patty—made with housebutchered beef shoulder and ground with housesmoked bacon—stays the same. Currently, it’s being dressed with a blue cheese remoulade, shredded lettuce, caramelized onions and house pickles. “It’s meaty, funky and tangy,” says chef de cuisine Dylan Shook—“and just the right amount of juice runs down your hand.” Better grab extra napkins. @mandolinraleigh (Photo courtesy of JNK PR)
7
Players Retreat
WOLFPACK BURGER Raleigh’s long been howlin’ for this OG burger riff on the Carolina dog. You just can’t get more classic Southern than this aptly dubbed Wolfpack Burger lest you ride in on a decked-out truck blaring Darius Rucker’s version of “Wagon Wheel” (“And if I died in Raleigh, at least I will die free…”). Slathered in slaw, mustard and chili—don’t even think about asking for ketchup—and served on a Union Special seeded bun, the time-honored “slutty” classic is just one of PR’s mainstay menu items. Case in point: A burger has been on the menu as long as the Hillsborough Street institution’s been open (1951). Real Southerners will order it with a sweet tea—but beer works too. @theplayersretreat
8
Fine Folk
FINE FOLKIN’ CHEESEBURGER From the fine folks who brought you pandemic pop-up Gov’t Cheeseburger in Cary comes this damn fine cheeseburger inspired by “many trips to McDonald’s after a long shift, then hanging out at the bar,” says Fine Folk chef/operator Chris Lopez. After several iterations, hands and spaces, the burg now stacks up as two chargrilled patties, American cheese, shredduce, onion, pickles and special sauce on a seeded bun. Trust us—it’ll live in your dreams. @finefolknc (Photo courtesy of brand)
9
Capital Club 16
CC16 CLUB BURGER You’re the ~bun~ that I want. Literally Raleigh Mag’s publisher’s fave—because “everything about it is absolutely delicious,” she says—you can’t go wrong with 4 ounces of Angus beef patty (single or double) dusted in CC16 house seasoning, thyme and rosemary, then topped with melted Vermont cheddar, butter lettuce, tomato, pickles and onions, and slathered with a spread of 1000 Island burger sauce, all tucked in a brioche bun. Pro tip: “If you are super-hungry, you can double up the patty or add a fried egg and call it a Golden Buck,” says chef/owner Jake Wolf—before spilling some tea. … “A version of this burger will soon be able to be enjoyed on the road or on location out of our Wandering Wolf Food Truck hitting the streets soon!” Find us in the club…@capital_club_16 (Photo courtesy of Mariangela Perez Masud)
LE COQUETTE BURGER Life is messy—may as well lean in and slap that mess on a bun—er, croissant (who you callin’ flaky?!)—and go ham. Say au revoir to your probs with this steak burger topped with brie, bacon, caramelized onions and sunny-side-up egg on croissant (natch)—so, in essence, all the fan faves paired up in one sammich—messy and totally worth it—kinda like life TBH. Ooh la la… @coquetteraleigh(Photo courtesy of brand)
Casual Buns
Let’s be honest—the best burgers don’t have to be high class. If you’re on the go or not feelin’ fancy a la Iggy Azalea, these 4 Raleigh Magpicks promise to satiate a quick, casual craving of juicy, greasy goodness.
Char-Grill
Hamburger Steak Sandwich “Simpler times, simpler choices” served via this OG burger with a legacy to boot. “Born in the ’60s at my father’s restaurant, the Gateway [shuttered 1972], across from NC State,” says Char-Grill co-owner Ryon Wilder, the classic splashed back on the scene in 1975 as the 8-oz. Hamburger Steak Sandwich we know and love today (the 4-oz. Hamburger Steak Sandwich Jr. was added later). And Raleigh still fiends for the top-seller—whether as a grab-and-go lunch, a fam tradition or a saving grace post night out. Cooked over lava rock (!), the chargrilled patty perfection comes with your choice of toppings: mayo, mustard, ketchup, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, coleslaw and chili. The world is your oyster—er, burger! chargrillusa.com(Photo courtesy of brand)
Reaper Burger “Come on, baby, don’t fear the reaper.” … This burger joint’s Reaper is, well, killin’ it. “Bringin’ the heat to Mama Crow’s epic lineup of charred and true burgers,” says co-owner Jeanne Queen, there’s nothing grim about these two smash patties of perfectly seasoned coarse ground beef topped with melty homemade pimento cheese and assembled with housepickled jalapenos, a bed of spicy crispy slaw and globs of housemade Carolina Reaper mayo. @mamacrows (Photo courtesy of Chair8)
Double Smashed Cheeseburger A smash burger is only as good as its meat—and smashing technique, of course—which is why this Jersey City- and NYC-inspired fusion “food exchange” uses 100% Angus halal beef for its signature burg. In true smash burger fashion (with an added twist!), it’s topped with fresh onions, American cheese and a special housemade aioli. #Juicy. @meatnbite (Photo courtesy of brand)
Truffle Burger Bodacious truffle burger—aka umami bomb—found via 8 ounces of beef sourced from short rib, chuck and brisket (!), then topped with truffle aioli, caramelized red onions and smoked Gouda cheese, and placed on brioche with a hint of butter flavor. But the real star of this flavor explosion is the umami—natch—“followed by the sweetness of the aioli that complements the fatty and richness of our signature beef blend,” says chef/owner Dan Yeager. @cowbarburger
(Courtesy of Char-Grill)
(Medium) Rare History
Among all the princely patties, there is but one true “burger king” when it comes to legacy beef. Raleigh’s OG Char-Grill has been serving up its fan-fave flame-cooked patties since 1960—and it’s been a treasured meat-up destination since.
Fun fact—contrary to conventional wisdom, the burger joint wasn’t actually Raleigh’s first. … Per Char-Grill co-owner Ryon Wilder, fast-food spot Charcoal Grill on Capital Boulevard preceded it in late 1959—only to be put out of biz by Char-Grill a few months later when it bowed on Hillsborough Street. (Honestly, not surprised—it’s Char-Grill after all.) Despite a brief closure in the early ’70s (there were plans to demolish the building and use the land for a parking lot—sound familiar?), the Raleigh icon has stood the test of time as a go-to for NC State students, Downtowners and Raleighites for a down-home no-frills burger, fries and shake—with now an additional eight locales to feed the frenzy. “We’ve been here a long time,” says Wilder, “and we’ve had a loyal following for many years.”
As for the burger king’s future? Grab those shades—it’s looking bright as ever. In the next few years, the OG Hillsborough Street building will be demolished (pause for a moment of silence). But before we go bacon your heart, the casz burger behemoth will return. “We will remain open for ~two more years and then rebuild on the first floor of the new building,” says Wilder. The new digs will feature inside seating (!), and the iconic Char-Grill sign will be proudly displayed in the dining room. “Our goal is to recreate exactly what you see here [now],” Wilder adds. And so, we will *meat* again.
VIP PICKS
Gov. Roy Cooper Char-Grill “Quick, tasty, mustard-on-tie worth it—the best spot for a burger in town.”
Elizabeth Gardner, WRAL meteorologist Neuse River burger, Neuse River Brewing Co. “Two things: beer cheese and roasted garlic aioli—wow! Sooo delicious. Plus their location can’t be beat.”
Bryan Blinson, North Carolina Cattlemen’s Association Executive Director Steakburger Senior at the Char-Grill on Hillsborough Street “I realized the Steakburger Senior was my go-to in 1980 when I was a freshman at NCSU—and it has been ever since. I am going to miss pushing my order down that iconic slide.”
Ellyn Daniels, comedian; writer, director and actor of This Little Show of Mine Cheeseburger, MoJoe’s “I love sitting outside, I love the old-fashioned burger-joint ambiance… and the cheeseburger with crinkly cut fries hit the spot when I’m nostalgic for the burgers of my childhood.”
Abby Lampe, NC State alumna + 2022 Cooper’s Hill Cheese-Rolling race winner Southwestern burger, MoJoe’s “MoJoe’s sauce slaps and I love the avocado. The flavors are immaculate!”
Brea Hollingsworth, CBS 17 co-anchor Quad Stack, CowBar “My go-to burger place in town is CowBar. I’m a lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese and bacon kind of girl, so I love their Quad Stack. Don’t forget the vanilla milkshake!”
Veggie Burger No one’s wondering where the beef is at with this Wilson’s Eatery meatless masterpiece feat. housemade falafel and edamame, tzatziki, lettuce, tomato, house pickles, and pickled onions on brioche. Pro tip: Vegging out in the outdoor garden def ups the delish factor. @wilsonseatery
You Want Fries With That?
Let’s be honest—it ain’t a bangin’ burger without the fries. … And it’s Fry Day every day when it comes to these 10 RM picks for your burger’s BFF.
Coquette: There’s no better fries combo topping than herbs, truffle oil and pecorino—fight us on it. (Pam Varela)
Buena Papa Fry Bar: I mean, it’s a fry bar—duh. Taking loaded fries to a whole new level with toppings like fried pork belly + guac, pomodoro sauce + meatball, and pulled pork + coleslaw. (Courtesy of brand)
Neuse River Brewing Co.: Pro tip: Get the mussels and save the sauce for fry dipping. (Courtesy of brand)
Standard Beer + Food: There’s nothing standard about these perfectly seasoned skinny fries.
CowBar: Choose from the original, Italiano (rosemary, garlic, Parma), Asian Persuasion (kimchi, wasabi mayo) or Truffle (truffle oil + shavings—our fave!) and you’ll never be disappointed. (Courtesy of brand)
Jolie: Champagne and fries: Doesn’t get much better than that! Run, don’t walk, to the takeout window for this fizzically perf pairing. (Courtesy of brand)
Whiskey Kitchen: Thick, battered fries seasoned with herb and sea salt make for an addicting add-on to a juicy burg. Dip in the housesmoked ketchup—or the beet peppercorn dressing!—for extra class. (Courtesy of brand)
East End Bistrot: Ooh la la! Transport yourself to Paris on the Bistrot patio with an order of pomme frites with fleur de sel (French sea salt). Pro tip: Add the duck fat aioli—and Champagne, natch. (Forrest Mason)
Wye Hill Brewing: It’s giving ripple-cut chips in fry form—the ideal vessel for the savory pimento cheese dip with dill pickle relish. … Kind of a big dill. (P.S. Don’t sleep on the BBQ fries with charred scallion ranch either!) (Courtesy of brand)
Fine Folk: Will skip dinner for the big ass bowl o’ fries. … And the garlic mayo is a necessity. (Courtesy of brand)
CHAIN CHEAT—FIVE GUYS: The boardwalk-style cup o’ fries are irresistible—albeit greasy. … Crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside. Get ’em Cajun style if you’re feeling extra spicy. (Jerry Huddleston)
So Saucy
If you’re a condiment queen—these 6 sauces are the boss.
Sweeten the Deal
3 sweet potato fries picks—if you are what you eat, then I yam what I yam.
Village Deli Swap “rude” taters for a sweet spud basket.
Nofo Sweet spice a la basket served with a Cajun citrus mayonnaise
Peep our list of fun, fab and flirty happenings around town this V Day.
Alexa, play “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” Still looking for fun plans with your boo or your buds this Valentine’s Day? We’ve lovingly supplied some selects for how and where to spend your day… and they’re straight from the heart. Are you feelin’ the love?!
Calling all young hearts, old hearts and everyone in between! Book a rez for Young Hearts’ prix fixe Valentine’s Day dinner by chef Josiah Halbohm to celebrate your love over life’s finest thing—food.
Eating your feelings—or eating with someone you have feelings for—is especially encouraged in the form of red velvet cake rolled ice cream (!). Raleigh Rolls and Bitten Bakery have partnered up to combine cake and ice cream (the best pairing, tbh) for this lovely pairing alll month long. Can you think of anything sweeter?!
Dinner and a show? We’re sold. Dance and dine the night away with burlesque performances and a three-course meal feat. sweet potato croquettes, smoked oysters, strip steak, chocolate mousse and more. How divine!
For plans that can’t be topped—unless it’s with extra cheese—grab a piece of heart-shaped pizza, spanakopita or salmon filet from Sassool, plus all your other fave Mediterranean foods. We absolutely a-dough it!
Not to be cheesy, but a charcuterie moment is for sure the V Day vibe. Botanist & Barrel is offering a perfectly prepared afternoon picnic for you and your loved one inside an igloo (!) with wine, cheese, dessert and a blanket to keep. So char-cute!
It’s sure to be both a good day and good night in the heart of DTR with GDGN’s prix fixe Valentine’s Day dinner feat. three courses of mouthwatering apps, entrees and desserts to fill both your heart and your tummy. Delish!
Spreading a whole latte love is 321 Coffee, which is hosting an after-hours event on Feb. 14 with sweet treats, mocktails and a toast to supporting others. To boot, your ticket includes a bag of coffee that you’ll get to address to someone in the city, like a teacher, health care professional, etc., who could use some extra love.
Stir things up this Valentine’s Day by booking a rez for a speciality supper menu slammed with delish eats—from crab bisque to charbroiled oysters to grilled salmon and more. Only available Feb. 14, these exclusive eats’ll have you falling in love after the first bite.
For an activity sure to float your goat, take a trip to this little farm and show some love to a few furry farm animals via its Valentine’s With Goats event. Not a baaad way to spend the day, in our opinion.
“Time together is time well spent.” Pair The Mayton’s Valentine’s Day room package—which includes chocolate-dipped strawberries and a bottle of sparkling wine delivered to your room to kick off the evening, plus a breakfast for two the next morning—with Peck & Plume’s three-course V Day dinner for the ultimate romantic staycation.
Hey, lovebirds! If staying in is your style this V Day, then book a package with your hun and get ready for a pampering sesh. To boot, the bundle includes Champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, a stay in a studio suite and a $50 credit to any of the Residence Inn outlets.
Think there’s nowhere to eat lunch in DTR? Think again. There are 100+ places to get your midday grub on in Downtown right now. Here, your go-to guide for lunch Downtown right now, divided up by district. Dig in!
The Roast Grill “Good friends, good dogs, good times” are on order at this famed hole-in-the-wall 13-seat Raleigh staple “burnin’ ’em for you” since 1940. 7 S. West St.
Taverna Agora – RM Best Restaurants 2022 Specialty cocktails and authentic Greek wines complement traditional Greek dishes in the rustic old-world ambiance inside—or alfresco on the open-air rooftop patio. 326 Hillsborough St.
Smoky Hollow
The Cardinal Bar– RM Best Bars 2021 “Spirits & everybody” is the name of the game at Jason Howard’s (think The Atlantic Lounge, Pink Boot) West Street drinking den and hot dog haven. The Cardinal’s infused liquor makes for some of the best—and cheapest—shots in town. Chase them with one of the lowkey bar’s famous beer-braised hot dogs, which are also available as veggie dogs. 713 N. West St.
Dose Elixir Bar Whether you just namaste’d a Dose class or you’re passing through the Hollow, grab your daily “dose” at Dose Yoga’s in-house smoothie bar concept and walk-up window to elevate your mood and stay balanced. Pick your potion, from adaptogenic and plant-based protein smoothies, smoothie bowls and wellness lattes—positive side effects, guaranteed. 415 N. Harrington St.
Gringo A Go Go With its playful vibe, plant-filled patio and housemade margs, this sup spot has been sating local Mexican-food lovers (including vegans!) since 2014. 100 N. Person St.
(Ish) Delicatessen Not quite Jewish, a little Italian and maybe Southern, this sandwich shop boasts “weird sandwiches from weird people” for breakfast and lunch. 702 N. Person St.
The Station at Person Street – RM Top Bloody Pick Nestled in a renovated Amoco gas station, this chill neighborhood hangout offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating that’s perfect for noshing on creative spins on bar food classics and craft brews. 701 N. Person St.
Big Ed’s City Market – RM Top Business Breakfast Pick Having called City Market home since 1989, Big Ed’s continues to serve up some of the best in Southern cooking in town seven days a week for breakfast, brunch and lunch. 220 Wolfe St.
The Bridge DTR For “bloody good” British food, international friendship and football (OK, soccer) visit London Bridge. Across-the-pond classics include rocket salad, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and a full English breakfast. 110 E. Hargett St.
Gravy Ask any Italian-American what “gravy” is, and they’ll tell you it’s the pasta sauce their moms and grandmas cooked fresh nightly. So, naturally, at Gravy, they prepare their own each day—among a host of delish Italian-American selects. 135 S. Wilmington St.
Sitti Named for the most beloved Lebanese figure, the grandmother (sitti), this DTR sup spot by restaurateur Greg Hatem (with Neomonde owners, the Saleh family) honors his Lebanese heritage with delish authentic dishes and spirits, and an inviting atmosphere. 137 S. Wilmington St.
Transfer Co. Food Hall (see individual listings herein) Located in the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shop, this hip food hall houses local seafood, burritos, bagels, housemade meats and pastas, burgers, Asian fare, and more—plus a bar. 500 E. Davie St., 984.232.8122, transfercofoodhall.com
Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria Owner Mario Longo has been serving authentic old-world Italian and NY-style pizza and traditional pastas for 30+ years overlooking City Market. Pro tip: Park it on the patio. 331 Blake St.; 4035 Lake Boone Trail
Clyde Cooper’s BBQ Since 1938, Clyde’s has been a fave for its award-winning barbecue (with three styles to choose from to boot!), succulent beef brisket and juicy chicken—NTM the sides! 327 S. Wilmington St.
Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar Never give up! Named for famed NC State coach Jim Valvano, upscale Italian fare is served alongside casual ops like pizzas and salads. 420 Fayetteville St.
lucettegrace Start your day at this contemporary patisserie with croissants and coffee; escape midday with the box lunch (your choice of sandwich, salad or soup, and a treat) or reward yourself post-work with those legendary macarons. 235 S. Salisbury St.
Manhattan Cafe Grilled cheese is for grown-ups! … And lunch is a vibe at this super-fresh local cafe by three brothers serving brekkie and lunch since 2009. 320 S. Wilmington St.
The Raleigh Times – RM Best Bars 2021; RM Top Bloody Pick Located in the home of the 100-year-old building that housed the former The Raleigh Times newspaper, this downtown staple now encompasses almost an entire city block (with a rooftop patio to boot), plus a generous selection of craft beers and eats. 14 E. Hargett St.
Sono Raleigh Let the good times roll at this sexy-chic-but-approachable vibrant sushi resto serving up world-class rolls (not to mention ramen and other Japanese faves), with a huge cocktail and sake selection to boot. 319 Fayetteville St., Ste. 101
Buena Papa Fry Bar @ Morgan Street Food Hall Fries before guys—and everything else. Buena Papa’s loaded fries (topped with everything from Colombian refried beans and fried pork belly to meatballs and tomato sauce to grilled chicken and tzatziki) are truly all you need in life. 9411 W. Morgan St., Ste. 104
Irregardless Café Treasured by carnivores and omnivores alike, this classic Raleigh venue is known for its global cuisine, as well as its flavorful and inventive vegan and vegetarian dishes. Come back at night for a meal to a backdrop of live music. 901 W. Morgan St.
Morgan Street Food Hall(see individual listings herein) An oasis for some of Raleigh’s best food and drink ops, this new-age food hall serves up everything from wood-fired pizza, tacos and burgers to lobster rolls, ice cream and more—not to mention cocktails at its indoor/outdoor bar. 411 W. Morgan St.
Parkside “Parked” at the entrance to the Warehouse District, Parkside is situated in a building that’s served up Southern hospitality for over 100 years. Take a seat at the reclaimed barnwood bar for chef-inspired dishes and 25-plus beers on tap. 301 W. Martin St.
The Pit Continuing NC’s barbecue legacy, The Pit doles authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue (think chopped barbecue pork and beef brisket). Opt for the warm-hued interior or the patio with a front seat to the hustle and bustle of downtown. 328 W. Davie St.
A Place at the Table – RM Top Business Breakfast Pick Having quickly gained local love and national acclaim, Raleigh’s first pay-what-you can cafe offers breakfast ops like quiche and waffles, and such lunch classics as salads, sandwiches and paninis. 300 W. Hargett St.
Sam Jones BBQ Prominent NC pitmaster Sam Jones brings his family’s signature Eastern North Carolina chopped whole-hog Q to Raleigh at Sam Jones BBQ, where trays and sandos are best served with the Skylight Inn-style cornbread. 502 W. Lenoir St.
Tuscan Blu Ciao, bella. At this authentic Italian resto, classic Tuscany-inspired pasta, meat dishes, and daily specials await—either to dine in or enjoy alfresco on the patio. 327 W. Davie St.
Whiskey Kitchen– RM Best Bars 2021; RM Top Brunch Pick Exposed bricks, lofty ceilings, garage door-style edifice, light-strung large patio and a communal vibe serve as the setting for this whiskey haven—housing hundreds of top-notch whiskies, with a full bar program and Southern-inspired plates for pairing to boot. 201 W. Martin St.
DeMo’s Pizzeria & Deli Um, you’re def on a knead-to-know basis when it comes to this local pizzeria and deli dishing homemade eats with fresh local ingredients that’ll steal another lil slice of your heart with every, well, slice (or salad, or sub…). Insider tip: Don’t sleep on the delivery service. 222 Glenwood Ave.
Hibernian Irish Pub Sláinte! Irish eyes are smiling indeed at this longtime two-story Glenwood South staple, famed for its Irish social club feel, beer and liquor selection, wraparound rooftop patio (with bar), and, of course, delish Irish dishes. 311 Glenwood Ave.
La Santa It doesn’t get more authentic Mexican than a family-owned resto serving up fare using the owner’s mother’s recipes from Guadalajara—think handmade tortillas, bolillo and chicken enchiladas—best served with mezcal cocktails and margs. 222 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 107
MoJoe’s Burger Joint With a dozen-ish different styles, MoJoe’s signature award-winning handpressed burgers are 100% Sterling Silver Choice beef and 100% delicious. Add fries, famous MoJoe’s sauce and a brew (or a signature shake) for the full experience. 620 Glenwood Ave.
My Way Tavern – RM Best Bars 2021 With a Cheers-esque vibe and TVs on every wall, this neighborhood tavern is a great spot to catch the game over cocktails and brews—and all the food you need to keep your game day fueled. 522 St. Mary’s St.
Sushi Blues An affordable spot to get a wide selection of fresh sushi and sashimi in a casual, sleek environment, Sushi Blues is known for its BOGO rolls (try the Wolfpack) and half-price wine bottles on Sundays and Wednesdays. 301 Glenwood Ave.
Tobacco Road Sports Cafe & Brewery – RM Best Bars 2021 Born out of owners Amra brothers’ vision for combining good food and sports-watching, TR is the quintessential spot for catching the game over world-class beers, cocktails and fresh locally sourced fare. 505 W. Jones St.
