Back in early 2023, I rounded up my favorite meals from across North Carolina from 2022 on Instagram in a two-part series on my feed (part 1 | part 2) + a reel of our annual Christmas Eve tradition. I got this idea from Lindsay of Welcome to Raleighwood because she shared some of her favorite dishes that she had tried around the Triangle in 2022 and I loved it so much. I decided to make this a permanent fixture annually where I highlight my favorite meals after having so much fun writing my article last year. My 2023 favorite meals can be found in three-part series on my Instagram feed here: part 1 | part 2 | part 3, with a supplemental article follow up of my 30 favorite meals of 2023. This year, I shared 48 of my favorite meals on my Instagram feed in a three part series (part 1 // part 2 // part 3) with all of them highlighted here. Keep scrolling to see the the 48 meals I enjoyed in 2024 and plan your next meal out.
For more North Carolina favorites, be sure to follow along on my 100-county tour here.
48 Meals I Enjoyed in 2024
Truffle Tuna Roll at Sushi Mon in Raleigh
Whatever you do, order this roll! It is so delicious yet light and the radish garnish is perfection. Put your name on the waitlist ahead of time on their website and know it is worth the wait.
Sushi Mon is at 3800 Glenwood Ave #100, Raleigh, NC 27612.
Poké Bowl from Raleigh Raw
Raleigh Raw is right around the corner from my office and I love grabbing a poké bowl from there. I order it with the rice and greens base, faroe monch (carrot, seaweed salad, mango, green onions, crispy shallot, cucumber, sambal chili sauce), and tuna.
Raleigh Raw is at 7 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Crispy Pig Head at Stanbury
Back when I first started I’m Fixin’ To, this dish was at the top of my list to try. Fast forward to 2024, and I finally crossed it off my list. Don’t let the name fool you. It is slow-cooked pulled pork shaped into a croquette served on a bed of beluga lentils, arugula, mustard, creme fraiche and a 62-degree duck egg. It is the one dish that stays on Stanbury’s ever changing menu. They do not take reservations, so get there right before they open to either snag a table or put your name on the wait list.
Stanbury is at 938 N Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
A Burger and Some of the Best Fries at Bleu Barn in Charlotte
I still think about that chicken cheesesteak and burger paired with those crispy fries. Unfortunately, Bleu Barn closed its restaurant in July of 2024. That said, you can still find them selling their locally made products around the Charlotte area with Bleu Barn Pantry. This page on their site offers details on where to find their products and also recipes that use their products.
Deluxe McSteak with Curly Fries from Eastcut Sandwich Bar in Raleigh’s Iron Works
This is hands down one of the best steak and cheese sammies I have ever eaten. Be sure to take a friend to split the fries with because it is HUGE! I have had this exact same meal at the Durham location and they nailed it there, too, so you cannot go wrong with which shop you try.
Eastcut Sandwich Bar is at 1101 E Whitaker Mill Rd Suite 126, Raleigh, NC 27604 and 3211 Old Chapel Hill Rd, Durham, NC 27707.
Warm Moroccan Hummus & Whipped Feta at Ajja
Ajja is a beautiful restaurant with a great outdoor seating area that has a gorgeous skyline view of downtown Raleigh. Their menu is perfect for going with friends and trying lots of dishes. I will always love whipped feta and hummus and this was a perfect starter combo for our meal. Do make a reservation online.
Ajja is at 209 Bickett Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27608.
Paella at Gallito in Barcelona
My best friend, Amanda, and I had to try paella while visiting Barcelona, and we had a delicious version sitting on the patio overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The restaurant is located in the W Hotel in Barceloneta and served up a delicious version of paella. It is a must if you are visiting.
Gallito is at Passeig del Mare Nostrum, 19, 21, Ciutat Vella, 08039 Barcelona, Spain.
Oysters, Crispy Potatoes, and Burrata at Repeal 33 in Savannah
David and I met friends from Buffalo in Savannah for a weekend and this was where we met for a late night dinner. We started off with the oysters, crispy potatoes, and burrata and omg was it delicious. Try the shrimp and grits for an entree. Repeal 33 is walking distance from The Alida Hotel.
RepeaI 33 is at 125 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401.
Potatoes Bravas and Pon con Tomate at Cúrate in Asheville
I visited Asheville a few weeks after returning home from Barcelona and I may have gotten teary-eyed dining here. I went on a solo lunch and sat at the bar and really enjoyed talking with the bartender about our various experiences in Spain. Their potatoes bravas and pon con tomate are exceptional and a must-order whenever you dine at Cúrate. If you go with someone, you should absolutely do the Spanish Experience. I talk about that here. One other note is that you should definitely make a reservation in advance, though bar seating is first come, virst serve.
Cúrate is at 13 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.
Harissa Chicken Sandwich with Home Fries at the Silo Cookhouse in Hendersonville
Treat yourself to lunch before (or after) getting a massage at The Stable Spa at Horse Shoe Farm in Hendersonville. If the Harissa Chicken Sandwich is on the menu, absolutely order it. That said, anything on their seasonal menus will be delicious. Make a reservation and enjoy your time with the farm and mountains as a beautiful backdrop.
The Silo Cookhouse is at 205 Horse Shoe Farm Dr, Hendersonville, NC 28791.
Lunch at Chai Pani in Asheville
Took myself on a solo lunch to Chai Pani before they moved to their new location in Asheville and loved this dish. Order a lavender lemonade for a really refreshing bevvie. I am looking forward to a return visit to try some more of the dishes on the menu now.
Chai Pani is at 32 Banks Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.
Grilled Smithview Farm Grass Fed Beef Burger at The Provincial in Apex
A few years back, my friend, Kayte, took me to The Provincial to try their burger. She dubbed it the best burger in the area, and at that time, the restaurant only offered it on certain nights. It is now a regular staple on the menu and rightfully so. It is served with caramelized onions, smoked bacon, cheddar cheese, pickle, brioche bun, and your choice of house cut fries or local mixed greens. When I asked readers their favorite burger in Raleigh, this was the overwhelming answer, so I gave it the readers’ choice award.
The Provincial is at 119 N Salem St, Apex, NC 27502
Phat Boy Roll at Akami Sushi Bar in Apex
Yes, it is a sushi bar in a gas station and it is *delicious.* It is also a small space, so definitely make a reservation in advance. Their specialty rolls are outstanding, though the one I will also order is the phat boy.
Akami Sushi Bar is at 1561 E Williams St, Apex, NC 27539.
Cheese Donuts *forever* at Fearrington House Bar in Pittsboro
You will not catch me not ordering the cheese donuts at the Fearrington House Bar as a starter. They are so decadent and unique. Stay for the burger on the everything bun or the fried chicken. And finish with the chocolate soufflé. Make it a day trip or plan a girls’ night or a date night and spend the night in the Inn for a lovely getaway right outside of Pittsboro.
The Fearrington House Bar is at 230 Market St, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
Pepperoni Pizza with Hot Honey at Ponysaurus Brewing Co. in Raleigh
I was so excited when Ponysaurus opened its Raleigh location and they serve up delicious cocktails, like their frosé and frozen espresso martinis, and their pizzas are great! I love their pepperoni pizza with hot honey. They also serve up yummy appetizers, burgers, and more.
Ponysaurus Brewing Co. is at Iron Works Dr Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Shrimp Burger at Rx Chicken & Oysters in Wilmington
If a shrimp burger is on the menu, I will 100% be ordering it. This one from Rx Chicken & Oysters in Wilmington lives rent free in my head. It was absolute perfection. The breading was crispy, the slaw was just the right texture, the cocktail sauce is a bit spicy, and the bun was light and fluffy. Check out their 1/2 price oysters on Wednesday-Friday from 5:00-6:00 PM and 1/2 price wine on Tuesday.
Rx Chicken & Oysters is at 421 Castle St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Seasonal Fish at Oliverio in Wilmington
Whatever you do, order the seasonal fish special at Oliverio in Wilmington. It is so fresh and truly exceptional. I also love the Oliverio Martini with the addition of sea salt. Make a reservation here and enjoy the interior decor, too! It is walkable from the ARRIVE Hotel in downtown.
Oliverio is at 522 S 3rd St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Quesadillas and Queso at Beat Street Street Food in Wilmington
Located in Wilmington’s Cargo District, this fun, fast-casual restaurant features a fun lineup of food offerings. The chicken quesadilla and chips and queso are a must-order! The restaurant offers a fun vibe with indoor/outdoor spaces and
Beat Street Street Food is at 348 Hutchison Ln, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Beach Happy Hour Charcuterie for Book Club Weekend in Topsail Beach
It is not often I share something on this round up that is not from a restaurant. However, this spread was too good not to share. Nothing better than a good homemade charcuterie board.
Spring Picnic with Friends at the NC Art Museum Park in Raleigh
I absolutely love a spring picnic in Raleigh and this spread at the NC Art Museum Park was so fun. The Hawaiian rolls with options for pimento cheese and chicken salad was a fun way to build our own sammies. Plus lots of our favorite snackies, sparkling waters, and wine made for a lovely, leisurely afternoon enjoying the outdoors.
NC Art Museum Park is at 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607.
Mr. Burns Sandwich at Q39 in Kansas City
Make a reservation for this amazing BBQ spot in Kansas City. That burnt ends sandwich should be illegal for how good it is. It is served with cubed burnt ends, chipotle BBQ sauce, pepper jack cheese, onion
straws, on toasted bun. Kansas City BBQ is no joke and this stop should absolutely be on your list when visiting.
Q39 is at 1000 W 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111.
Authentic Kansas City BBQ at Arthur Bryant’s in Kansas City
A friend of mine told me when I visited Kansas City that the one place I *had* to be sure I visited was Arthur Bryant’s BBQ. And let me tell you something. They were *not* wrong. It is no wonder that this restaurant is considered one of the best BBQ places in the country, and has served up their famous plates to former Presidents Harry Truman, Jimmy Carter, and Barack Obama. Get there when you can as they will sell out. I order the 1/2 pound of pork and tried the ribs. Can’t go wrong with either!
Arthur Bryant’s BBQ is at 1727 Brooklyn Ave, Kansas City, MO 64127.
A Dirty Martini & Pomme Frites at Jolie in Raleigh
Talk about a little treat! This order is my go-to to start off an evening with friends or on a date with David. While I do love the walk-up window at Jolie, if there is a space at the bar, it is a nice little change in scenery.
Jolie is at 620 N Person St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
“On the Ranch” Wrap from Downtown Roots in Edenton
When visiting Edenton last summer, we popped in Downtown Roots for a casual lunch and my goodness, was it a good meal! I ordered a lunch special wrap that was quite tasty called “On the Ranch” with grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles, and ranch on a tomato herb wrap. Their homemade pimento cheese is great, too! We grabbed a tub to go to enjoy as a snack later.
Downtown Roots is at 415 S Broad St Suite A, Edenton, NC 27932.
Coastal Cobb Salad with Blackened Shrimp at Vicious Fishes in Fuquay-Varina
One of my go-to meals close to home is this coastal Cobb salad with blackened shrimp at Vicious Fishes in Fuquay-Varina. The farmhouse vinaigrette on it is so light and makes this a nice, refreshing meal no matter the year. If you are sharing, start with the pretzel that comes with pimento cheese and mustard, plus add the beer cheese. You can make a reservation online, which is helpful on weekend nights when it tends to be busy!
Vicious Fishes is at 132 S Fuquay Ave, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.
A Glass of Veuve Cliquot & the Cobb Salad at Madison & Vine in New York City
David and I always stay at the Library Hotel when visiting New York City, and our first meal stop is Madison & Vine for the same thing. I love this take on the Cobb salad with the chick peas and kalamata olives. I also love that they have Veuve by the glass, so I kick off vacation with a glass.
Madison & Vine is in 299 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10017.
A Slice of Pepperoni Slice from Filaga Pizzeria in Chelsea Market in New York City
David and I love making a stop in Chelsea Market to browse and we grab a slice of pepperoni from Filaga. There is no better place to people watch than Chelsea Market and this pizza is so damn good!
Filaga Pizzeria is in Chelsea Market at 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011.
Lobster Roll at Minetta Tavern in Greenwich Village in New York City
My friend, Jen, recommended a stop here while we were in the city over the summer, and oh my goodness it was SO GOOD. This historic restaurant has been the hang out of the likes of Ernest Hemingway and E.E.Cummings and feels like what I envisioned every restaurant in New York being like when I was younger. I ordered the lobster roll and it was *superb.* Make a reservation online in advance, though we were able to walk in and get a table for 2 in between lunch and dinner.
Minetta Tavern is at 113 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012.
Macaroni & Cheese Au Gratin at Poole’s Diner in Raleigh
It felt fitting to celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary at Poole’s Diner with our favorite dishes. This restaurant has always been special to us in our relationship. We celebrated buying our first house, our engagement, David coaching his team to the state championship in women’s soccer, and numerous birthdays and Christmas Eves here. I ordered the fish and David got the roasted chicken. If the royale is on the menu, order it.
Poole’s Diner is at 428 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Fried Chicken and the Burger at Fearrington House Bar in Pittsboro
I mentioned this under the cheese donuts above, and I love dining in the Fearrington House Bar for elevated takes on classic dishes. These two are taken to the next level with their little details. You can make a reservation to ensure a spot in the lounge.
The Fearrington House Bar is at 230 Market St, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
Bone Marrow Tots at Luminosa in Asheville
Located in the Flat Iron Hotel in Asheville, this restaurant serves up Italian dishes with an Appalachian twist. Whatever you do, try the bone marrow tots. There is a seasonal melon dish that if it is on the menu, you should absolutely order it. The lemon pizza is also a surprisingly take on pizza and is really refreshing in the summer.
Luminosa is at 20 Battery Park Ave Floor 1, Asheville, NC 28801.
The Classic BLT at The Eddy Pub in Saxapahaw
There is nothing better than a classic BLT and this one from The Eddy Pub in Saxapahaw is a great take. It is served with a pesto aioli and those fries are some of the best around. Make a day trip out of it and be sure to walk down to enjoy the river views.
The Eddy Pub is at 1715 Saxapahaw-Bethlehem Church Rd, Saxapahaw, NC 27340.
Brunch Burger at Longleaf Swine in Raleigh
You may already know that I think Longleaf Swine has some of the best BBQ in Raleigh, so now let’s talk about their brunch options. I ordered their brunch burger and oh my goodness, it was everything one could hope for on a leisurely brunch with friends. This is outdoor dining at its best and it is dog-friendly, too!
Longleaf Swine is at 300 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Crab Cake Benedict at irregardless in Raleigh
One of the best brunch establishments is the quintessential Raleigh restaurant, irregardless. irregardless offers a delicious dining menu, whether you are joining for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch, and I love their live music nights. Order the crab cake Benedict. It is savory and the crab cake is made with so much good crab meat.
irregardless is at 901 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27603.
Slowik Burger at The Willard Rooftop in Raleigh
The Willard Rooftop offers some of the best views of the Raleigh skyline in the city and stays nice and cozy with the outdoor fireplaces.They serve up a tasty burger, too! The Slowick burger is seriously good. It is two 4-oz. wagyu patties, seared onions, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, iykyk sauce all on a brioche bun. I recommend making a reservation.
The Willard is at 9 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603.
Meat Ball Hoagie at Colletta in Cary’s Fenton
I enjoy Colletta at any time for a meal, though their lunch menu features this delicious meat ball hoagie. Sitting on their patio on a nice, sunny afternoon feels like you are transported to an Italian patio bistro and it is just so inviting. Make a reservation here! Spend some time exploring all the great spots in Fenton after you dine.
Colletta is at 1 Fenton Main St Suite 170, Cary, NC 27511
Caviar and Tots at Alley Twenty Six in Durham
Alley Twenty Six is a swanky cocktail bar that serves up unique and classic cocktails while also having a great selection of snacks and food. I love their Alley Jr. burger, though their real star is the caviar and tots dish! It comes served with Crème Fraiche, shallots, hard boiled egg, chives, and tater tots. Do not miss it! I do recommend making a reservation if you prefer a table. Sitting at the bar gives you a great opportunity to see how their bartenders perfect their craft!
Alley Twenty Six is at 320 E Chapel Hill St STE 200, Durham, NC 27701.
Smashburger at Standard Beer + Food in Raleigh
We need to talk about this burger. When I tell you I crave it, I mean it. This smash burger has it all — Two 3 oz Patties, Griddled Onions, American Cheese, Dill Pickles, Pop’s Russian + Potato Bun. Order it with a side of the queso tots and you have my favorite comfort meal in Raleigh. That said, the truffle tots are *also* delicious and made with real truffles.
Standard Beer + Food is at 205 E Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Chicken Philly at Angry Troll Brewing in Elkin
When I went to Elkin for a weekend with my girlfriends, we loved Angry Troll Brewing so much we ate there for dinner and lunch. The chicken Philly was *so* good and is served with pulled chicken with chopped onions, banana peppers, red bell peppers, and pickled chilies, and topped with queso.
Angry Troll Brewing is at 222 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621.
Cobb Salad & Fried Okra at The Cardinal in Boone
David and I take an annual trip to the Mast Farm Inn in Valle Crucis, we stop at the Cardinal for dinner. My go-to order here is their Cobb salad and get a side of fried okra and it is one of my favorite meals ever. David gets their fried chicken sandwich.
The Cardinal is at 1711 NC-105, Boone, NC 28607.
Soft Pretzel at Booneshine Brewing Co. in Boone
Whatever you do, start you meal with their soft pretzel, which is locally baked by Stick Boy Bread Co., brushed with beer butter and served with house mustard and hot honey or beer cheese. Do yourself a favor and go ahead and get all 3 dipping sauces. We also like to split the hot honey chicken tenders and the pepperoni flatbread.
Booneshine Brewing Co. is at 465 Industrial Park Dr, Boone, NC 28607.
Chicken Friend Chicken with Mashed Potatoes & Mac & Cheese at Over Yonder in Valle Crucis
The other meal that David and I always have when visiting Valle Crucis is the chicken fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and mac & cheese at Over Yonder. Sadly, Valle Crucis had to close their doors in the wake of Hurricane Helene. I am linking to their site for if and when they open their next project.
Chicken Parm Sammie at Union Station Deli in Raleigh
Located in Raleigh’s Union Station in the Warehouse District, this sandwich spot serves up delicious sandwiches. David and I both got the chicken parmesan sandwich. It is served with fresh mozzarella, provolone, tomato sauce & pesto on house focaccia, and let me tell you! That bread is so good! It is a fun spot to people watch in the train station, too.
Union Station Deli is at 510 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Pimento’d Oysters and Pomme Frites at St. Roch in Raleigh
I am pretty sure there is not one single Raleigh food roundup that I have posted that does not include the pimento’d oysters and pomme frites at St. Roch in Raleigh. This meal is the ultimate feel-good meal for me and I really cannot get enough of it. Make a reservation!
St. Roch is at 223 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Banana Pepper Dip with Chorizo at The Place in Buffalo
We visited David’s family in Buffalo in December and had lunch at The Place with his sister after she raved about it. Spoiler: She was right! It really is an awesome spot. You definitely want to make a reservation in advance to get a space here. The banana pepper dip with chorizo is *so good* and you also should order the Beef on Weck and a famous Tom & Jerry!
The Place is at 229 Lexington Ave, Buffalo, NY 14222.
Chicken Finger Sub at Jim’s Steakout in Buffalo
David was most excited about taking me to get my first Jim’s Steakout Chicken Finger Sub, which is served with Tenderloin Chicken Fingers, topped with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and onions – all on a toasted Italian roll. After trying my first one, I understand the hype.
Jim’s Steakout has multiple locations in and around Buffalo. We went to 2952 Niagara Falls Blvd., Amherst.
Wings & Beefs on Weck at The Bar at Main and Hamlin in East Aurora
Our friends took us to East Aurora to eat at The Bar at Main and Hamlin and we split Beefs on Weck and tried a wide variety of wing sauces. Our favorite wing sauce was the medium Cajun dry rub. Don’t skip their waffle fries, either! This is a first come, first serve seating situation, so you want to get there early as it gets packed quickly!
The Bar at Main and Hamlin is at 198 Main St, East Aurora, NY 14052.
The Deviled Egg with Crispy Oyster and Hot Sauce Caviar at Oak Steakhouse in Raleigh
I love a deviled egg and I especially love that this is served a la carte, so I can order just one and enjoy all the flavors. I love the flavors of this, and definitely recommend trying it on your next visit to the Oak. Make reservations in advance online, or walk in and grab a seat at their gorgeous bar.
Oak Steakhouse is at 417 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27603.
What were some of your favorite meals from last year?
