50 Best American Restaurants in Raleigh

“Great food and overall dining experience. The Mac & cheese to share is out of this world.“

“It has to be one of my favorite restaurants for brunch in Raleigh.“

“We ordered the Christmas take home Meal and it was superb!! Everyone raved about the freshness. The Prime Rib was delicious and the vegetables were very tasty and the rolls and pies were the best! We will be ordering for all the Holidays meals in 2025!“

“Man, I had to revise this review. Love their crab cakes, but man, I just can't get enough of their NY Strip Steak. Perfect medium rare and that incredible char on the outside of the steak, yum. The Mac and cheese side might be the best I ever ate.
These folks make the BEST crab cakes in Raleigh. Prime rib is delicious.“

“The best chicken and waffles I've ever had.“

“Fabulous service at the bartop. Roy's recommendations were impeccable and considerate of dietary restrictions. The food was outstanding and wine pairings complemented well. Highly recommend sourcing from the starters and sides to get the most variety, unless you wish to commit to the steak or full entree. Oysters and acorn squash were a great combo. I appreciated the ability to do a GF dessert (elevated ice cream sundae!) to top off the night. Thank you!!“

“This was my first visit to the Raleigh location on May 28, 2025 with two out of town guests. three diff dishes were ordered..brisket, St. Louis rubbed ribs and burnt ends. The brisket and burnt ends were amazing. The ribs however were dry and tough. The meat certainly did not fall off the bone. I would not recommend the ribs based on this experience.“

“I love the first thing you see is black lives matter and the rainbow flag their support of equality means the world! 🌎
Limited menu but everything was really good our waiter was awesome very friendly very sweet. Prices were reasonable. We would definitely come back“

“Fabulous food, cocktails and atmosphere!“

“We went before a Hurricane’s game. Great to see all the ‘Canes fans. I also appreciated the discount parking for the game.“

“What an all around amazing night at Second Empire! Our family gathered there to celebrate our son's wedding. The personal service the bride and groom received was way beyond expectations. Everyone made them feel so special! From start to finish, the evening was exceptional. The food was so yummy and there were even options for those in our group, myself included, who were vegan/vegetarian. And it wasn't just a salad. Just ask the server! Ours was well versed in what the chef could prepare for us. The presentation of the food to our party of 13 was also super cool...they brought out all of the entrees at once! Also there is an elevator to help those with mobility issues. Thanks to everyone for helping to make this special day even more special!“

“Being lactose intolerant, it is hard to eat out. I was able to eat pancakes and a pumpkin muffin with plant-based butter and whip cream that days as good as milk-based. Service was excellent and live music with upbeat vibe. Consistently great and love their dinner menu too!“

“Nothing beats a passionate chef. Tonight was my first experience, and it's only the beginning! The staff was amazing and did not make me feel rushed. 5-star plus. I've never been to a restaurant where all the mussels were open and full of flavor until Northside Bistro. It was impressive and absolutely delicious, and they also serve some of the best cocktails I've ever had!“

“Excellent service and food quality! We had cocktails and a light appetizer while waiting for a table. Then once seated, the two of us ordered: three small plates, one large plate, and a dessert all to share. The timing was perfect. Each item came out separately, with an appropriate pause in between. We were not rushed or overwhelmed. Staff was very attentive without ever being anywhere close to overbearing.“

“Great Food, even better staff. So happy for the cuties couple/bartender Jen and Paul heard that they are having a little one this fall🥰“

“Sydney was our server. She did an amazing job. She is a bright star shining in personality and service. We started with the peach & raspberry salad. The goat cheese complimented it well. I was surprised by the prosciutto in the middle, but my friend loved it. We then moved onto the Tuna Crudo and Longganisa Sausage. Both stood on their own with wonderful flavors. We finished with the Trout and Steak. Both prepared properly. Correct temperature and seasoning. We love us Jolie, but we will be back. Probably have to flip a coin each time.“

“🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Margaux’s in Raleigh dazzled me! The outdoor seating set the perfect vibe, and my waiter Bill was phenomenal—attentive, engaging, and professional, just like the whole staff. Every plate was art, every bite divine, and that key lime pie? Pure transcendence. Effervescent culinary journey with next-level flavors—Perfect kickoff to my Labor Day weekend. I’d recommend it in a heartbeat!“

“One of the best places has ever eaten breakfast and the service and atmosphere is even better. Love this place. Makes the best hobo omelettes I have ever eaten . Give them the highest score possible. Been going for 15 years . Awesome place.“

“Everything was amazing. The old fashioneds are still the best we’ve ever had. And I tell anyone who will listen about the brussel sprouts. We usually come for lunch so we often only get Brussels and sliders but the last two times we tried the featured burger and lemon risotto. The lemon flavor was subtle perfectly balanced and complemented the salmon I added. I am hoping to come back and have it again very soon. The service is always great and one of the main reasons we come back. Everyone has always made us feel welcome and often remember us. We don’t come in enough to be considered regulars but we are always made to feel that way. Be sure to make a reservation. It’s a small restaurant and we always see it fill up fast especially for lunch.“

“I stopped by to grab lunch. The food was delicious. The people were friendly and helpful. I want more corn!!!“

“We experienced a rude and obnoxious person near us, he was very loud, we never said anything to him, at the end he came over and apologized and threw down a $100 to pay for our meal. Hunter, our waitress handled it like a champ! Food and service were wonderful!“

“Everything we ordered was excellent, but the cakes are over-the-top amazing!“

“Best and healthiest food restaurant in Raleigh

Vegetarian options: Good, clean, crisp, veggies

Dietary restrictions: Healthy eating is at Spring Cafe

Kid-friendliness: Yes, very much so. My granddaughter grew up there. She goes on her own and introduces the Cafe to her college friends

Wheelchair accessibility: Yes“

“Everyone was Friendly. Service was great. Drinks and Food came out quick Wings were yummy and the fish and chips! We will be back!!.“

“We really enjoyed our food and will definitely return for more!“

“My favorite lunch spot. Friendly service and absolutely the freshest, most delicious food in town.“

“I had brunch here with friends and everything was wonderful! The food was well seasoned and the portions are quite generous. Friendly service as well.“

“It was just a regular Saturday as I wandered around North Hills. all of a sudden the rain pours down I was blindly running around, finding a place out of the storm and stumbled into a restaurant. A restaurant I didn’t know what alter the course of my life. It gave me life. That restaurant was.… Bartaco. Little did I know at the time that I was missing out on this incredible experience. From the taco, to the guac, to the tea, Bartaco has changed me in ways I never thought possible. Thank you Bartaco… Thank you.“

“Love their coconut macaroon, rum, and strawberry puree cakes!“

“excellent food, customer service and great memories every time I visit...keep up the great work!“

“We are staying at this hotel for a softball tournament at NC STATE. I came down for coffee and there were several people in the restaurant. There was just one employee taking everyone’s order and making coffee and breakfast entrees and she was AMAZING! She was friendly, she was fast and efficient getting everyone their food and drinks. She came around to each table and checked on every patron. I don’t know how she did it, but this was such a pleasant experience in a crowded bistro! Bravo and well done!!!!“

“A year later and the question remains on where the server disappears to. Burger was good. Fries were over cooked. Happy they have zero proof cocktails but why do they cost more than real cocktails.

Burgers were good and the kids enjoyed the shakes. My cocktail was also good. The fried deviled eggs were different and delicious. The only thing bothersome were the flies. I counted at least 6 hovering. Our server also disappeared for a bit. Do they go on break when they have tables?“

“Great dogs and exceptional service. Will visit again soon.“

“Always get the meatloaf cannot go wrong very good and the gravy for the REAL mashed potato is super !!!“

“Jamie and Marie are awesome. Drinks were amazing!! Desserts were also amazing!! Espresso martini was the best I’ve ever had.“

“Accueil chaleureux, service exceptionnel de David, les plats étaient tous meilleurs les uns que les autres, nous avons adoré notre souper! Oeufs farcis, huîtres et Sancerre ont été des coups de coeur pour moi.“

“The food is delicious and the presentation is beautiful. If you have not tried First Watch please treat yourself soon😊“

“Nestled in an business office complex, you may not see it at a glance. I only stopped because it was close to my hotel. Went there for lunch and the line was out the door. Well worth the wait. I had a gyro sandwich that was to die for. Mostly sandwiches, panini and wraps. They do have a special of the day that could be rice with a protein. Everything looked amazing. They do have in-dining tables. Very nice Spanish speaking ladies that are very quick and helpful. I will be back.“

“On NCSU campus in Talley, but not the best place to grab food between classes because of the wait. I don't know if they're understaffed or what but it took almost 40 minutes to get our food one time.The food itself is good though, so without time constraints I would recommend it.“

“It’s great!! We really enjoyed triangle restaurant week!!!“

“Karaoke 🎤 nights fun, first time here I definitely recommend attend a karaoke night.“

“I planned a post funeral for the attendees who traveled to Raleigh from out of town. Since the time was for 3 PM on a Tuesday afternoon we got the area that can also be sectioned off from the rest of the restaurant, although in our case it was not. It did not need to sectioned off as the restaurant was not busy at this time. Lesan was our server and he was great. Energetic, friendly, quick with a smile and a master of the menu details. Our group was a mixture of different age groups but we love to talk and laugh. Lesan blended in seamlessly.“

“Love you Ryan and sorry we missed you Ash love 💕 you“

“Great Mac and cheese AND offer gluten free! best of all! usually when a place offers gluten free, you have to settle for only one item. but here there were lots of choices. very pleased. could not tell the difference in this gluten free dish and non gluten free. fantastic taste! great job!“

“We found Flask and Beaker while looking for places to have brunch. We didn't know what to expect since we found them online. Flask and Beaker is in the State View hotel on NC State's campus. We had an alumni and former professor with us so this was great for us. There were subtle NCSU items around the lobby. The food was great and we felt like we the portions were large for the price.“

“We decided to pop in Good Day Good Night for an after dinner drink. There were 5 of us. We each ordered 1 drink and one person ordered dessert. Her coffee finally arrived, after she finished her dessert. The rest of us had to wait over 30min for our drink. I ordered a White Russian. It was so iced down, the ice had melted and the drink just watery whatever. Our server just acted like we were bothering him, each time we asked about the status of our drink order. My drink was the only mixed drink. The others were a shot of bourbon, and 3 decafs (the coffee was already made) Next time we want to stop somewhere for an after dinner drink, it won't be here.“

“Delicious food, and super friendly staff!!“

“I am at Glenwood often and love the main dining area and the atmosphere. The food is great especially the salmon.“

“Raleigh Grande is a very nice place to watch a movie and grab a bite. The chicken sandwich is delicious. The food is priced low and it’s an all around nice family theatre.“