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.