Back in 2017, I created a bucket list of restaurants across North Carolina that I wanted to experience as I traveled throughout our beautiful state. Recently, I stumbled across that original post and was thrilled to see how many of these incredible spots I have since visited and enjoyed. Others served as gentle reminders of culinary adventures still waiting for me.
What started as a simple wish list has evolved into something much more meaningful—a living document of North Carolina’s diverse food scene that I will continue updating as I explore. From coastal seafood havens to mountain farm-to-table gems, these restaurants represent the very best of what our state has to offer.
Originally written in November 2017, updated and refreshed for December 2025.
25+ Must-Try North Carolina Restaurants: A Culinary Journey Across the State
Eastern North Carolina: Where the Coast Meets Culinary Excellence
✅ 1587 Restaurant & Lounge – Manteo
Located inside the historic Tranquil House Inn, 1587 Restaurant & Lounge is a cozy waterfront restaurant overlooking the scenic Manteo harbor. Open for both lunch and dinner, it is the perfect spot to grab a window seat, enjoy thoughtfully prepared coastal-inspired dishes, and soak in the charming waterfront views. The atmosphere feels relaxed yet elevated, making it ideal whether you are lingering over lunch or enjoying a special evening out. See more of my favorite things to do in Dare County here.
What I ordered: Lobster roll, tuna tiradito, seasonal salad, and the refreshing watermelon salad (a true standout during spring and summer)
1587 Restaurant & Lounge is at 405 Queen Elizabeth Ave, Manteo, NC 27954.
Amos Mosquito’s – Atlantic Beach
I spent a lot of time down at Atlantic Beach in my late teens and early twenties, and unfortunately, have not been back to Amos Mosquito’s. I love the location, which is right on the way to Fort Macon, with a patio offering water views, and an eclectic menu.
What I’d order: Iceberg Wedge, Scallop Fantasy Roll, Liza Roll
Amos Mosquito’s is at 703 E Fort Macon Rd, Atlantic Beach, NC 28512.
Back Porch – Ocracoke
While my family vacations at Back Porch every July, it has been quite a while since I have dined at the restaurant. I love the gorgeous screened-in porch dining area and the approachable, yet unique seafood options.
What I’d order: crab beignets and seared Ahi tuna steak OR spicy pimento cheese and the lump crab cakes
Back Porch is at 110 Back Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
✅ Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe – Nags Head
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Café has been a beloved Outer Banks staple since 1996, celebrated for its incredibly fresh, locally sourced seafood and unforgettable sunset views across the sound. It is one of those classic OBX dining experiences that feels special every time you visit. I love that the experience truly begins before you are even seated—there is something so peaceful about relaxing in a rocking chair on the porch, watching the water, and easing into the evening. The menu is rooted in coastal North Carolina tradition, with thoughtful preparation that really showcases the best of the region’s seafood. See more from our 5 day road trip Outer Banks roadtrip here.
What I ordered: Signature crab dip and seasonal soft shell crabs (The she-crab soup and fried flounder are other great options!)
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe is at 7623 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959.
✅ Beefmastor Inn – Wilson
The Beef Master Inn embodies everything I love about eastern North Carolina dining. It is unpretentious with just 10 tables, and the experience is unforgettable. You put your name on the list and tailgate in the parking lot while waiting—it is all part of the charm and experience. The menu is beautifully simple: a salad bar and your choice of a steak cut served with a baked potato and Texas toast.
What I ordered: The only thing on the menu (and loved every bite)
Beefmastor Inn is at 2656 US-301 South, Wilson, NC 27893.
✅ Blue Jay Bistro – Littleton
Blue Jay Bistro offers a delightful dining experience with creative American cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere. Known for their attention to detail and quality ingredients, this bistro provides a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. I am proud this restaurant is in my home county and is offering such a delightful experience!
What I ordered: Oysters Rockafella, Flounder (any of their fish specials would be great options!)
Blue Jay Bistro is at 141 E South Main St, Littleton, NC 27850.
✅ Cypress Hall – New Bern
Situated in historic New Bern, Cypress Hall combines elegant Southern hospitality with innovative cuisine in a beautifully restored setting. This upscale restaurant showcases the best of eastern North Carolina’s culinary traditions while adding contemporary flair to classic dishes.
What I ordered: Pimento Cheese, the Fish Special (though I will order the Striped Bass because of the Crab + Clam Bouillabaisse on my next visit!)
Cypress Hall is at 219 Middle St, New Bern, NC.
✅ Spoon River Artworks & Market – Belhaven
Belhaven is a charming town nestled along the Pungo River in one of North Carolina’s most picturesque regions, making it the perfect setting for Spoon River. This restaurant offers an elevated dining experience in a beautifully designed space that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. It is also one of my Eastern North Carolina destination restaurants!
What I ordered: David and I shared a salad and their exceptional roasted chicken dish. They are known for their selection of local seafood, always-available steaks, and desserts made fresh right in Belhaven.
Spoon River is at 263 Pamlico St, Belhaven, NC 27810.
Starlight Cafe – Greenville
Despite living in Greenville for nearly four years, I never experienced a full meal at Starlight Cafe—something I still regret. As one of North Carolina’s pioneer farm-to-table concepts dating back to 2000, Starlight has maintained its beautiful atmosphere and remains an important anchor in eastern North Carolina’s culinary landscape.
What I’d order: Whatever seasonal special catches my eye that evening
Starlight Cafe is at 104 W 5th St, Greenville, NC 27858.
✅ Theodosia – Duck
One of Duck’s newest gems, Theodosia at the Sanderling, is the latest restaurant from beloved North Carolina chef Vivian Howard. This elegant dining experience features a refined, chef-driven menu, intimate ambiance, and gorgeous sunset views. The space feels thoughtful and meaningful, too — I especially love the gallery wall honoring remarkable women of the Outer Banks, with their stories highlighted on the restaurant’s Instagram. Reservations are highly recommended, though the bar is open seating for those lucky enough to snag a spot.
What I ordered: Down East rolls with shrimp burgers, tuna tartare, THE tomato pie, and lemon meringue pie
Theodosia is across from, 1461 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949.
Central North Carolina: Where Innovation Meets Tradition
✅ Crawford & Son – Raleigh
Located on Person Street in Raleigh’s charming Oakwood neighborhood, Crawford and Son strikes the perfect balance between casual and sophisticated. The menu is approachable yet creative, the cocktails are exceptional, and dessert is absolutely mandatory. Don’t miss their next door, sister location, Jolie, the French bistro next door with their incredible champagne and french fry window.
What I ordered: Rolls, Heirloom tomato salad, Yellowfin Tuna Tartare, Pasta Special
Crawford & Son is at 618 N Person St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
✅ Fearrington House Restaurant – Pittsboro
Photo by Glory
My love for Fearrington Village is well-documented, and their restaurant lives up to the village’s reputation. The bar menu creates a fun, relaxed dining experience in this gorgeous setting. Their afternoon tea is another delightful option worth experiencing.
What I ordered: Cheese doughnuts, fried olives, scallop toast, burger, and gnocchi
Fearrington House Restaurant is at 230 Market St, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
Kindred – Davidson
Kindred has lingered on my list far too long, and with downtown Davidson’s undeniable charm, there is really no excuse for not making this happen soon. Their famous milk bread will absolutely be
What I’d order: Milk bread, Little gem lettuces, crispy oysters, and definitely one of the desserts
Kindred is at 131 N Main St, Davidson, NC 28036.
✅ Lantern – Chapel Hill
I finally made it to Lantern and shared several delicious dishes with my birthday twin, Amy! Every recommendation proved exceptional, making for a truly delightful dining experience.
What I ordered: Clara’s salad, chaat, and BBQ’d pork
Lantern is at 423 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516.
✅ Nanas Rockwood – Durham
This beloved Durham dining institution has been beautifully reimagined as Nanas Rockwood, offering elevated seasonal Southern cuisine in a cozy yet elegant setting. It strikes that perfect balance of feeling special while still being warm and welcoming, making it one of my top picks for a memorable dinner or romantic night out. The menu is rooted in Southern tradition while embracing thoughtful creativity, and the cocktail program is just as impressive as the food.
What I ordered: The Duke Martini, tuna carpaccio, and the grits soufflé (the menu changes frequently, so expect delightful seasonal surprises)
Nanas Rockwood is at 2514 University Dr, Durham, NC 27707.
Oakleaf – Carrboro
After relocating from Pittsboro to Carrboro a few years ago, Oakleaf continues to serve inventive New American cuisine in a sophisticated Main Street setting. This dinner destination remains high on my priority list.
What I’d order: Deviled eggs, burrata, and lemon tagliatelle with NC crabmeat, confit tomato, espelette pepper, buro fuso, and pangratatto
Oakleaf is at 310 E Main St, Carrboro, NC 27510.
✅ Saltbox Seafood Joint – Durham
Saltbox Seafood Joint absolutely lives up to every bit of hype it receives. The food is extraordinary, and whatever you do, do NOT skip the hush-honeys—they’re legendary for good reason.
What I ordered: Shrimp hoagie with hush-honeys and a Cheerwine
Saltbox Seafood Joint is at 2637 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707.
Second Empire – Raleigh
Housed in one of downtown Raleigh’s most beautiful buildings, Second Empire offers an outstanding menu with various dining options ranging from formal to casual tavern-style experiences.
What I’d order: Grilled shrimp & goat cheese arancini and grilled kvarØy arctic salmon
✅ St. Roch – Raleigh
St. Roch has become one of my absolute favorite Raleigh destinations, perfect for progressive date nights, girls’ nights, or even solo dining adventures. The atmosphere appropriately evokes New Orleans with its vibey, authentic charm.
What I ordered: Pimento’d oysters, pomme frites, seasonally berbere spiced watermelon, and their legendary beignets
✅ Tesoro – Carrboro
This intimate Italian restaurant in Carrboro brings authentic flavors and handcrafted pasta to the Triangle area. Known for their seasonal menu and cozy atmosphere, Tesoro offers a genuine Italian dining experience with carefully sourced ingredients and traditional techniques.
What I ordered: House-made pasta, seasonal antipasti
Tesoro is at 100 E Weaver St, Carrboro, NC 27510.
Western North Carolina: Mountain Magic and Culinary Artistry
Artisanal – Banner Elk
This stunning farm-to-table restaurant transitioned to a three-course prix-fixe menu in 2021, creating a true culinary experience worth the reservation. Note their seasonal hours (typically May through October), so check availability and book in advance.
What I’d order: Crab & grilled summer squash soup and the snapper
Artisanal is at 1200 Dobbins Rd, Banner Elk, NC 28604.
During a girls’ weekend in Asheville, my best friend and I indulged in Cúrate’s Spanish experience with wine pairing. It was absolutely wonderful, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Asheville. Reservations are essential, so plan ahead, though the bar is always first come, first serve and the best seat in the house, in my opinion. I have been a couple of times since my Barcelona trip and it truly felt like I was transported back there.
What I ordered: The full Spanish experience with wine pairing
Cúrate is at 13 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.
The Dining Room at Biltmore – Asheville
Experiencing dinner at the Biltmore Estate‘s dining room feels like the perfect way to complete a visit to this magnificent property. Having fallen in love with the estate, I dream of living close enough to justify a seasonal pass.
What I’d order: Heirloom tomato and burrata and herb-crusted salmon
The Dining Room at Biltmore is at 1 Antler Hill Rd, Asheville, NC 28803.
Gideon Ridge – Blowing Rock
This beautiful bed and breakfast remains on my wish list for both lodging and dining. Their restaurant features an amazing terrace with what’s reportedly the best mountain views in the area.
What I’d order: Lobster and crab cake, Wagyu beef striploin
Gideon Ridge is at 202 Gideon Ridge Ln, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.
ILDA – Sylva
Located in the charming mountain town of Sylva, ILDA offers an elevated dining experience that celebrates the flavors and ingredients of the western North Carolina mountains. This restaurant brings sophisticated cuisine to the heart of Jackson County with a focus on seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients.
What I’d order: Frito Mixto, Trout Brodetto
ILDA is at 462 W Main St, Sylva, NC 28779.
Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden – Highlands
Visiting Highlands ranks high on my personal travel bucket list, with Madison’s dining experience at the idyllic Old Edwards Inn being a major draw. The Wine Garden operates on different hours than the restaurant, so check schedules when making your highly encouraged reservation.
What I’d order: Pan-seared foie gras and pecan-crusted sunburst trout
Madison’s Restaurant & Wine Garden is at 445 Main St, Highlands, NC 28741.
Nine Mile – Asheville
This Asheville restaurant brings creative, contemporary cuisine to the city’s vibrant dining scene. Known for their innovative approach to seasonal ingredients and thoughtful presentation, Nine Mile offers a modern dining experience that captures the spirit of western North Carolina’s culinary evolution.
What I’d order: Live and Give, Negril Nights
Nine Mile is at 751 Haywood Rd, Asheville, NC 28806.
David and I enjoyed an absolutely wonderful dining experience here in spring 2023. The restaurant’s beauty is matched by delicious food and outstanding service that made the evening truly special. We highly recommend taking a stroll after dinner to enjoy the charming downtown.
What I ordered: Sweet potato, smoked bacon, and rosemary mousse with chips, and steak with shrimp
Postero is at 401 N Main St, Hendersonville, NC 28792.
✅ River’s End – Bryson City
We visited this iconic Nantahala River spot during our 2018 anniversary trip to Bryson City. The views were absolutely exceptional, and we thoroughly enjoyed this memorable dining experience.
What I ordered: Greek salad with grilled chicken
River’s End is at 13077 Hwy 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713.
Final Thoughts
What began as a simple North Carolina restaurant bucket list has truly transformed into a living, evolving culinary journey. I love looking back at where I have eaten, what has surprised me, and which places I am still dreaming about visiting. North Carolina’s dining scene continues to impress with its creativity, warmth, and deep sense of place — from coastal seafood spots to beloved neighborhood favorites and unforgettable mountain experiences.
If you have dined at any of these restaurants, I would love to hear about your experience. And if you have recommendations I should add to my list, send them my way — I am always looking for my next great meal across our beautiful state!
Use the interactive map below to start planning your own North Carolina dining adventures.
Oh my goodness Amos Mosquitos and Starlight are two of my very favorite restaurants! At Amos my favorite is the crabcake pasta, SO good!!
Crabcake Pasta sounds amazing! I haven’t been to AB or Beaufort in years, and there are a lot of restaurants I need to revisit! xx!
Nice list. Of these, I’ve been to Lantern, Oakleaf, Salt Box, Beef Master, and Curate. I’d suggest The Chef and the Farmer in Kinston. I’m really interested in trying Death and Taxes!
What’s your favorite local restaurant in the Triangle? I am also interested in trying Death & Taxes, too! Ashley Christensen can do no wrong, IMO!