It’s no secret that I am a big fan of Raleigh, North Carolina. It’s also no secret that I love trying new restaurants. I consider one of my skill sets to be in food and restaurant recommendations, and while I love Raleigh, there are some great dining destinations that are actually in the ‘burbs. So here are 10 of the best restaurants in Raleigh that I love visiting.
10 of the Best Restaurants in Raleigh that Aren’t Actually in Raleigh
BODEGA
This new restaurant serves delicious tapas, has an extensive wine list, and a unique rum list. It’s located in historic downtown Wake Forest and is the perfect spot for a girl’s night out! P.S. Bodega is brought to you by the amazing folks at Driftwood Kitchen in Lafayette Village in Raleigh.
110 South White Street, Wake Forest, NC 27587
FARM TABLE KITCHEN & BAR
This spot features a beautiful patio, a farm to table concept using fresh, local ingredients, and has a warm, welcoming vibe. Definitely order the duck bolognese! Also, they’re open seven days a week for dinner service!
960 Gateway Commons Cir, Wake Forest, NC 27587
TOTOPOS STREET FOOD & TEQUILA
Any restaurant that has a guacamole flight has got to be a good one! Totopos is one of our favorite date night spots and has such a fun atmosphere.
1388 Kildaire Farm Rd, Cary, NC 27511
LA FARM BAKERY
This authentic French bakery is a true gem in Cary, and more recently, Morrisville. It’s a great spot for brunch, and I highly recommend the Quiche Lorraine. Be sure to grab a loaf of French bread and freshly made pimiento cheese before you leave. You won’t be disappointed.
4248 NW Cary Parkway, Cary, NC 27513
ACADEMY ST. BISTRO
This beautiful restaurant in the heart of downtown Cary features a fun patio, an Italian-American menu, and great drink specials.
200 S Academy St, Cary, NC 27511
THE PROVINCIAL
This restaurant features sidewalk seating in the historic downtown Apex with a great, farm-to-table menu with a great craft beer list. The crispy oysters and the grass fed beef burger are absolutely outstanding.
119 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
APEX WINGS
David and I celebrate every special occasion at Apex Wings. It’s no-nonsense, down-to-earth and they serve up delicious wings, excellent brews, and the best tater tots.
518 E Williams St, Apex, NC 27502
My Way Tavern
This restaurant is an excellent option in Holly Springs, and even expanded into a downtown Raleigh. Their Cobb salad is one of my favorite meals, and David and I usually split the pretzel bites. Their menu is guaranteed to have something for everyone.
301 Center St, Holly Springs, NC 27540
ACME PIZZA COMPANY
Photo Credit: @hollyspringssohip
This family-run pizza place has garlic knots that are out-of-this-world delicious and Chicago deep dish pizzas. Not into deep dish? Their hand tossed pizza crust is just as good!
204 Village Walk Dr, Holly Springs, NC 27540
The Mason Jar Tavern
The owners of the Mason Jar have such a unique story for opening their original restaurant in Holly Springs and their community involvement in Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina is helping to bring more businesses to these towns. The staff at the Fuquay-Varina location makes you feel like family. If you prefer to eat at the bar like we do, ask for Frank. He’s the best!
305 S Main St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526
Don’t these 10 best restaurants in Raleigh look amazing?!
What are some of the best restaurants where you live? Share in a comment below!