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!“

“The atmosphere is great, and the food is both delicious and reasonably priced. One thing that really stood out was the attentive service. it's rare to find a restaurant in Raleigh with so many waitstaff. I also appreciated their sleek black uniforms, which added a nice touch to the overall vibe. The manager was incredibly friendly and made a point to walk to each table to check in with customers, ensuring everyone was satisfied.“

“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.“

“My wife and I stopped by prior to attending a concert. We often like to visit independent establishments rather than chain restaurants. The location is in a nice quiet area. The place is clean and the staff was very friendly. The food menu was really good and the beer list was great as well. We sat inside, but there was plenty of outdoor seating as well. Definitely, would visit this location again and recommend this to anyone who's looking for a nice little brewery with food options.“

“Really really enjoyed the visit! Old World decor and charm, great service, Thanks Kayla, wonderful selection of authentic Tapas, I need to go back, there's so much more unexplored to try! Maybe just seafood this time. There are so many combinations. Keep up the great work!“

“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.“

“I recently had the pleasure to dine at Second Empire. The food was so delicious. I had the swordfish which was cooked to perfection and was enhanced by the sauces and sides. At the waiter’s suggestion, I ordered wine that was complimentary and wonderful. The waitstaff was professional, knowledgeable and fun. The setting was beautiful. I look forward to dining there again and highly recommend it!“

“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.“

“Irregardless is a wonderful find in Raleigh! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with live music that adds a unique charm to the dining experience. Their menu offers a great variety of options for everyone, from vegetarians to meat lovers, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The food is full of flavor and beautifully presented, making each bite a delight. The service is top-notch, with a friendly and attentive staff who ensure you feel taken care of. Whether for a special occasion or a casual meal, Irregardless is a must-visit spot that consistently impresses with its quality and vibe.“

“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🥰“

“This is time 3rd time visiting. Each visit was just as good as the first. The food was impeccable, the wait staff was friendly and attentive, and the drinks were great!! I just had the best grilled chicken sliders. The chicken breast was juicy, and the bread was very soft. I love the atmosphere too.“

“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.“

“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“

“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!“

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

“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.“

“Attention to detail, quality and customer service. Outstanding place to relax and have a cold one.“

“The food & service were excellent.“

“1st time going today and it did not disappoint. Yes I was that person that showed up right before they closed and yet I was treated so kindly by every staff member in there. 5 out of 5 on Food and Service“

“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.“

“Great service, cocktails and food!“

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

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

“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?“

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

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

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

“I just want to say this restaurant is a hidden gem I was greeted immediately with a warm smile I had the duality formula which was a watermelon jalapeño margarita which was amazing the bartender brought it to the table and even check to see how was it top tier service. We had the avocado lab bites which were amazing and calamari and shrimp dish(I can't remember the exact name) but it was so good it's served with a lemon aioli which the waitress said they make in house, for the main course I had the 16 oz ribeye with the espresso rub and red wine reduction which was fantastic I had it with a great Chianti which the bartender suggested the pairing and she was spot on. My waitress was very attentive and knowledgeable. 10 out of 10 I will be returning.“

“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!!!!“

“New Location is BUSSIN !!! I’m never disappointed when I come eat here. And I tried to Philly Cheesesteak for the first time 😮‍💨😮‍💨😮‍💨TOP TIER“

“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.“

“What a beautiful place to have a NICE dinner! The Filet Mignon was magnificent! Could not have been better! Don’t need a knife! It was Ike slicing butter! Just unreal! Amazing staff! Just perfect!“

“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.“

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

“Was shopping close to renaissance hotel and found this bar/ restaurant.. stopped in for a quick sip and snack ..

the bartender Lois was just amazing ! Very helpful and her service was exceptional .. smiling all the way and suggesting good stuff.

They just had few beers on tap . I liked the home brewed wheat beer. Light and tasted good . Wish they had few other brands on tap. IPA on tap was also average. They did have bottles and other options .. lots of tables to sit and drink. Parking is a problem here z tough to get one closer to the hotel . Overall a good experience , just because of Lois .. ?????“

“Food and service was great. Nikki, our waitress, was attentive, engaging, and wonderful. However, It was hard to hear my date until later in the evening. We were sat in the bar area, so I don't know if it's just that section or the whole place. The price was expected, about $40 per person. Overall, it was a good experience and an enjoyable one.“

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

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

“Grows excellent with all 4 of us . He was so pleasant and helpful.“

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

“Great gluten free options.“

“Great family breakfast spot. Can’t eat enough bacon. Thanks Lathaniel for being a wonderful server!“