50 Best American Restaurants in Raleigh

“Food is always amazing.. Celebrated 11 years sober.. New menu duck and curry cod were to die for.. Chefs speacial for the app was amaizing.. They are soo nice there. Service is so on point on all of Scott's restuarants.. There menu just changed and excited to try all the new stuff...HIGHLY RECOMMEND“

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

“My friend and I ordered and enjoyed a lot of food: - Pimento Cheese w/ Fried Saltines - Roasted Beets w/ Pickled Kumquat, Siano Burrata & White Balsamic-Thyme Vinaigrette - Baguette w/ Cultured Salted Butter - Crispy N.C. Shrimp w/ Marinated Newly-Dug Potatoes & Pickled Ramp Remoulade - Roasted Airline Chicken Breast w/ Herb-Scented Whipped Yukons & Smoky Triple Chicken Jus - Macaroni Au Gratin (the best I’ve ever had, at least four unique cheeses. If you don’t order this Mac ‘n Cheese, that’s your fault!) From the moment we walked in, I knew we were in for something special. The rainbow “Don’t Forget Kindness” window etchings, the upscale modern yet retro decor, the attention to detail, and then learning the history, dating back to 1945 — it’s all so impeccable! Oh, and a fantastic cocktail. The 1806 — Orange Infused Bourbon, Brulee'd Brown Sugar, Bitters! Suffice it to say that I will make it a point to be back, often 🏳️‍🌈 Highly recommend!“

“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!“

“When in Raleigh, will make sure to make this a regular must visit! 😋“

“Thank you so much for making our anniversary special! The espresso baileys martinis were divine. Shrimp cocktail was great- shrimp were a bit small but cooked well(one was a bit of a moody texture) and the sauces were delicious. Beef Wellington and bone in ribeye were cooked to perfection and delicious. Chocolate cake was amazing- the ice cream on the side paired perfectly with it. This was our second visit and we look forward to returning.“

“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.“

“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!“

“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!“

“The food is always hot and delicious--wings are actually jumbo. Well priced and good portions. The owner is very friendly, as she and her whole staff are very attentive and kind. Will definitely become a regular place as I've been looking for a good wing place in the area ever since i moved here“

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

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

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

“🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 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!“

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

“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🥰“

“We finally went to Birdie’s yesterday after 2 previous attempts and the place did not disappoint. The drinks were fabulous! The food - Brussels, cauliflower, tuna, French dip sandwich and the salmon were all amazing. If you park in the garage across the street then don’t forget to get the ticket validated. We had reservations and there a few early hiccups with being seated in a timely manner. Shoutout to the staff - Alex, Tori and Kendra who were absolutely amazing! We will be back.“

“Christmas Eve dinner 2025. Everything delicious. Counter seating, so entertaining watching the pace and positive attitudes of those working the line. Roasted oysters, agnolotti divine, NC fish perfect. Staff friendly and, well, just a special evening all together. We have only been twice, but were greeted like regulars.“

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

“My fiancé and I celebrated our engagement at Oak Steakhouse in May of 2026 and the entire staff made the evening magical. Oak has quickly become a frequent date night spot for us and will be for years to come. The food is always amazing and John our waiter (as well as the entire staff) has always treated us like family.“

“I was running 30 mins late for my reservation, called in, no problem to postpone. The staff were amazing, so friendly and were very helpful with menu choices. The food was unbelievable! My only regret was that I couldn’t eat anymore! Just make a reservation well ahead of time to be seated at a table, otherwise sitting at the bar is the next option. We ordered the Risotto and the crab cakes! Both delicious and ended sharing a slice of cheesecake! 5 stars plus to this incredible vegan restaurant.“

“We were there last night with our soccer team so it was around 40 people. They sat us in the tent area and Christian was our server/bartender. He did AMAZING!!!!!!! We were all shocked how he was so efficient and fast with serving that many people. He made great drinks too!!!“

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

“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.“

“The lemon drop martini delicious, calamari delicious, wedge salad delicious. For my entree, I ordered the crispy chicken sandwich not good at all. Chicken patty was fried hard more like burnt. Infact it was double stack chicken sandwich and i could tell that it was processed. The services was fantastic, waiter was great. I just know, that I will not order that sandwich again.“

“Beautiful atmosphere, love the food especially the desserts. Today was different. I order the usual caramelized Brussels Sprouts. This time no sweet caramelization, so I explained that to my waiter, hoping to get them touched up or ask if I wanted to change to something else. Nothing like that happened, he returned with my ticket stating I took it off. Umm, I would like to have had them fixed . Nevertheless, I ate my scallops only and left after paying, no dessert this time. No vegetable with my scallops. I can’t say I will not come back but, I will be watching my server. Poor service makes a poor experience.“

“​We had a wonderful experience at The Crunkleton! Since we heard it gets busy, we made reservations in advance and were seated immediately. We decided to splurge on the tomahawk steak dinner and switched the veggies to brussels sprouts, and it was outstanding. Everything was cooked to perfection! It’s definitely pricey, but worth it for a special occasion. Staff mentioned the steak feeds 4 to 5 people, but with just two of us, we barely had any leftovers, so keep that in mind if you have a larger group!“

“Don't believe the photo that comes up on the tripadvisor page. When I visited in April 2025, they closed at 5:00 Mon-Thurs, not 8:00. Their website has the correct hours. I had the fried chicken lunch special. It came with two sides and two slices of garlic toast. $9.99. The chicken was juicy and the breading had great flavor. The mac and cheese side was creamy and delish. The broccoli and cauliflower side needed salt and pepper. Nice sized portions for the sides. The garlic bread could use more garlic flavoring. Some patrons at my place of employment told me that they come here several times a week for lunch. The staff is very friendly, even towards me, a newcomer. They seemed to know everyone else in the restaurant. Lots of regulars, which is a good sign.“

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

“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.“

“Service was impeccable. Our server (Ben, I think) was very attentive and informative.
Food was phenomenal. Portion sizes were ample to allow for 2 meals! Prepared and cooked to perfection-- filet was thick & tender & cooked just right. The cajon ribeye special was unbelievably spiced-like no other.“

“Great hand crafted cocktails with small bite food options“

“Great gluten free options.“

“Lunch food is great but the servings are meager.“

“The Angus Barn is a special and beautiful place. We have been celebrating special occasions there do many years. We were there on Saturday evening and had Melissa. She was a wonderful waitress and made us all feel very special. Especially the birthday lady! Thank you all for always being so accommodating! We love the Angus Barn.“

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

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

“The food at First Watch is always delicious and Justin is an excellent server!“

“I won't lie, the service was rough. My appetizer came out wrong twice and then the third time it came when everyone else had finished their apps and the entrees were coming out. Took us ages to get our bill and pay. And then I got home and my bill was wrong and I went back.

My entree was delicious. I'll try again soon. But this was a Wednesday night so shouldn't have been this difficult.“

“Upon arrival, we were greeted with smiles and seated quickly. We ordered the BERRY GULÉE CREPE and the CHICKEN + "WAFFLES" CREPE, paired with a mimosa flight. Both the fruit and chicken were very fresh. Mimosas were delicious. Our server was very nice and personable as well!“

“Wow!! What an amazing experience, we had heard mixed things about the chain but our server Aidan absolutely blew us away! He was super attentive and the drinks were delicious! Our food was good but Aidan really made our experience next level.“

“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.“

“Great little bistro in the hotel, super convenient as I was traveling for work and loved not having to run out every night for a quick dinner! Starbucks coffee (limited selection) was perfect to grab on my way out every morning. I had the most interaction with the manager and Sonja, the evening bartender/cook, and they were just the best!“

“Delicious food, and super friendly staff!!“

“I never have anything but good things to say about Bad Daddy’s! Their burgers are phenomenal and it’s always a nice place to go on a Friday night to chill after work. I would suggest sitting at the bar because you will get some of the best service I’ve ever had.“

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

“The Flavor District is an absolute gem and a must-visit for anyone who loves great food and a vibrant atmosphere. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted with a lively energy and an incredible variety of delicious options that make it truly a five-star experience. This was our first time going and we were completely blown away. But the real star of the show was the stuffed turkey leg—it was so good it felt like Thanksgiving came early! Each dish is a masterpiece, and the hardest part is choosing what to eat! Beyond the fantastic food, the atmosphere is simply electric. It's the perfect spot for a casual lunch, a fun night out with friends, or even a date. The staff is also incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always willing to offer a recommendation or share details about the dishes. The Flavor District is more than just a food hall; it's a true destination for food lovers. I can't recommend it highly enough. You won't be disappointed!“

“I have always had a great experience at First Watch 💓 So refreshing to see excellent customer service on display and a priority! Food was delicious and served quickly ✨ This is definitely our go to restaurant when we have guests in town 😍 Thanks First Watch!“

“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.“

“The food is amazing! Though I haven’t tried every yet👀 I’m sure it won’t disappoint!“