With SO MANY fabulous restaurants and dining experiences within the Triangle area, it’s hard to decide which one to enjoy first. Whether you’re searching for a fine dining experience, out-of-this-world cuisine, a fun ambiance, exquisite desserts, or top-notch service, you can find it all right here. As a self-proclaimed foodie and a lover of amazing dining experiences, here are my choices for where to enjoy “the best of the best” cuisine within the Triangle….your tastebuds will thank you!
DURHAM
Vin Rouge: Farm to table traditional French bistro located in historic Durham.
Juju: A whimsical dining experience with Asian fusion tapas and a dynamic bar + lounge.
Mateo: Durham’s original Tapas restaurant features a menu that blends the flavors of Spain with beloved ingredients and dishes of the South.
Gocciolina: Italian pasta dishes & small plates are featured at this cozy Durham restaurant.
True Flavors Diner: sophisticated American favorites with a touch of Southern hospitality.
CHAPEL HILL
Bin 54 Steak & Cellar: Specializes in tender, mouth-watering steaks grilled over hickory wood and uses the highest quality and locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible to support the community.
Hawthorne & Wood: A neighborhood restaurant, bar and patio lounge with clear, bright, and stimulating cuisine gives a fresh turn to local ingredients.
RALEIGH
Crawford and Son: Serves straight forward, honest food that ranges from the familiar to the unexpected. They strive to deliver depth of flavor with purposeful ingredients through a balance of classical and modern techniques.
Margaux’s Restaurant: Combines an ever-changing menu, made with the freshest local produce and the highest quality ingredients, impeccable service, and energetic fine-dining ambiance.
Glenwood Grill: Offers cuisine inspired by the coastal Carolinas & the American South. They use the best quality ingredients while supporting regional food artisans & emphasizing the importance of sourcing products harvested locally.
Hayes Barton Cafe and Dessertery: Unique vibe, decorated with 1940’s memorabilia serving both fresh meals and EXCEPTIONAL, award-winning desserts.
Poole’s Diner…what began as a pie shop in 1945 has evolved into a retro-chic downtown Raleigh hotspot owned by award-winning chef, Ashley Christensen. It’s seasonal menu changes and highlights locally-sourced, fresh ingredients to create simple, yet creative dishes.
Madolin: Serves Southern-based food with hints of international influences. The food is fresh and local, the music is American, and the restaurant is known for serving world class food.
Players Retreat: Founded in 1951, this neighborhood institution welcomes patrons to enjoy great food, a cheerful atmosphere, and a place where you are treated like family. The menu combines a delicious variety of traditional pub fare with more unique options, fresh sauces, and extraordinary steaks.
***Due to COVID 19 restrictions and/or challenges, some restaurants may be closed, have limited capacity or menus, or only have take out options. Please call or visit the website before visiting.
