If there is one thing I never stop doing, it is keeping track of really good food. Every year, I round up my favorite meals from the year before, and this list is my biggest yet. These are the 70+ favorite meals I ate in 2025, from tried-and-true North Carolina restaurants to a few unforgettable bites from my travels beyond the state. Some are fancy, some are casual, and all are meals I would absolutely order again — whether you are planning your next weekend getaway, building your NC restaurant bucket list, or just love living vicariously through other people’s dinner plans.
See my favorite meals from 2023 and 2024 and all my travel content here.
70+ Favorite Meals I Ate in 2025 (From North Carolina & Beyond)
Coastal North Carolina
From fresh seafood by the water to cozy cafés tucked into beach towns, Coastal North Carolina always shows up strong when it comes to memorable meals. This part of the state is where casual fish tacos can sit right alongside white-tablecloth dinners, and somehow both feel perfectly at home. Whether it was an Outer Banks weekend, a Wilmington getaway, or a quick stop fast food stop, these coastal meals were all about local flavor, fresh ingredients, and that unbeatable “on vacation” feeling.
Cheddar Bo and Bo Rounds from Bojangles’ in Waxhaw
My roadtrip meal of choice is a cheddar bo biscuit and bo rounds with a sweet tea from Bojangles’. Any time I heading down to the Wilmington area, I stop at the Bojangles’ in Waxhaw and it never disappoints. While it may sound silly to say, not every Bojangles’ does a cheddar bo, so knowing which ones carry them has been part of my experience with road tripping around the state.
Bojangles’ is at 2933 Providence Rd S, Waxhaw, NC 28173.
Island Bowl from Horizons at BHI Club on Bald Head Island
This Island Bowl from Horizons at BHI Club on Bald Head Island comes with grilled mahi bites, pineapple salsa, and is such a fresh dinner option. The BBQ drizzle gives it a little kick.
BHI Club is at 301 S Bald Head Wynd, Bald Head Island, NC 28461.
Crab Cake Sandwich at Provision Company in Southport
Any time I am near the coast, I order a crab cake sandwich. The one at Provision Company is so delicious and the porch is so lovely, even on chilly days like the day I dined there.
Provisions Company is at 130 Yacht Basin Dr, Southport, NC 28461.
Squid Ink Chitarra at Floriana in Wilmington
Floriana in downtown Wilmington had been on my list to try for years and I was so excited to snag a seat on the balcony on a beautiful early spring evening. Balcony seating is first come when you have a reservation. Try their Caesar salad before the squid ink chitarra.
Floriana is at
Deviled Eggs at Seabird in Wilmington
Seabird in downtown Wilmington is one of my favorite restaurants in North Carolina and their weekend brunch is really lovely. I started with their deviled eggs that come with caviar and then had a fried catfish sandwich as my entree. Grab a seat at their bar.
Seabird is at 1 S Front St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Homemade Candy Bar at PinPoint in Wilmington
PinPoint was a delicious Wilmington restaurant that served up great local seafood, and while I am not one for dessert, the bartender convinced me to try the homemade candy bar which was absolutely delicious. After 10 years of operating, the restaurant closed at the end of 2025. A new restaurant will be going into the space this year.
PinPoint was at 114 Market St, Wilmington, NC 28401 and a new restaurant will be opening for lunch and dinner in the space.
Fried Chicken Benny at the Rooster & the Crow in Wilmington
Rooster & the Crow in Wilmington has an amazing brunch and this fried chicken benny was so delicious. It is a super popular spot, so plan to get there early to get your name on the list or grab a seat at the bar.
Rooster & the Crow is at 225 S Water St Suite G & H, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Crab Melt at The Pilot House in Wilmington
The Pilot House is located right on the river walk in Wilmington and it is such a beautiful, quintessential spot. Their crab bisque and crab melt was a comfort meal for me on a cooler evening. On a spring day, enjoy lunch or dinner on the porch!
The Pilot House is at 2 Ann St, Wilmington, NC 28401.
Pan-Seared Local Fresh Catch at The Lifesaving Station in Duck
The Lifesaving Station at the Sanderling Resort in Duck is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and their dinner is outstanding. I had fried fish and grits and I am still thinking about how well seasoned the fish batter was. The space is beautifully designed, too.
The Lifesaving Station is at the Sanderling Resort at 1461 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949
Fried Shrimp at Tooley’s Tavern in Elizabeth City
David and I stopped in Elizabeth City on our way back from Camden County and we decided to have lunch at Tooley’s Tavern. Their fried shrimp and fries was exactly what I had been craving.
Tooley’s Tavern is at 400 N M.L.K. junior Dr, Elizabeth City, NC 27909.
Tuna Tiradito at 1587 Lounge at Tranquil House Inn in Manteo
1587 Lounge is located in the Tranquil House Inn in Manteo and has a delicious seasonal menu. The tuna tiradtio was so good and fresh. Order the lobster roll and the seasonal watermelon salad if it is on the menu.
1587 is in the Tranquil House Inn at 405 Queen Elizabeth Ave, Manteo, NC 27954.
Soft Shell Crab at Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe in Nags Head
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe is a staple restaurant in Nags Head and offers beautiful views of the sound that you can take in from the rocking chairs on the porch. I was fortunate enough to visit when soft shell crabs were in season and they were delicious!
Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe is at 7623 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959.
Dockside Crunch at NC Coast Grill in Duck
On my 5 day road trip down the Outer Banks, I stopped at NC Coast Grill and enjoyed a lovely late lunch on the porch overlooking the sound. Get a fried fish sandwich and enjoy the view.
NC Coast Grill is at 1184 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949.
Tomato Pie at Theodosia in Duck
Vivian Howard opened a restaurant at the Sanderling Resort and her famous tomato pie is a must-order. In addition, try the tuna tartare, the down east rolls with shrimp burgers, and finish with the lemon pie. It is truly an amazing dining experience with beautiful sunset views. Make a reservation because it will book up fast.
Theodosia is at 1461 Duck Rd, Duck, NC 27949.
Fried Green Tomatoes & Shrimp at Flying Melon on Ocracoke Island
I had not eaten at Flying Melon on Ocracoke Island in so long, so I was so delighted to return. We started with the fried green tomatoes and shrimp starters and then the fish of the day for my entree. This restaurant is so good — they are open during the week, so make your plans to visit this year.
Flying Melon is at 181 Back Rd, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Shrimp Burger at SmacNally’s on Ocracoke Island
One of my favorite spots on Ocracoke is SmacNally’s and their shrimp burger and fries is my standard order. This is such a great spot to spend an afternoon watching the boats coming in on Silver Lake. Check their site for live music.
SmacNally’s is at 180 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Blackened Shrimp and Fish at Dajio on Ocracoke Island
Dajio on Ocracoke has a fun oyster happy hour and their blackened fish and shrimp is one of my favorite orders. This fresh catch of the day was so good!
Dajio is at 305 Irvin Garrish Hwy, Ocracoke, NC 27960.
Central North Carolina
David and I call the Triangle home, so you will notice a lot of our go-to favorites featured here. From creative brunch menus to casual spots perfect for lingering dinners, this area never runs out of new spots to try or old favorites worth returning to. These meals came from everything from planned date nights to spontaneous weekday dinners, and they represent exactly why the Raleigh–Durham–Chapel Hill food scene keeps getting better every year.
Smash Burger with Queso Tots at Standard Beer + Food in Raleigh
Standard Beer + Food is the meet up spot for my friends and me in Raleigh. I rarely deviate from my order of a smash burger and queso tots. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
Standard Beer + Food is at 205 E Franklin St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Chicken Taquitos at Little Rey in Raleigh
I love any type of Mexican food, and Little Rey in Raleigh‘s Iron Works is a fun, fast option for good Tex-Mex. The chicken taquitos are outstanding, and you can never go wrong with the chicken quesadilla.
Little Rey is at 1101 E Whitaker Mill Rd Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Smoke on the Water at State of Beer in Raleigh
I love State of Beer and their newest location in Raleigh beside The Bend Bar is so fun! Get their Smoke on the Water and start with the loaded fries.
State of Beer is at 853 W Morgan St, Raleigh, NC 27603.
Little Neck Clams at Mateo in Durham
I met my friend, Alexandra, in Durham for a leisurely dinner at Mateo where we had so many delicious options. My favorite was the little neck clams, though the bone marrow was also delicious.
Mateo is at 109 W Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701
Crab Salad and Macaroni & Cheese at Poole’s Diner in Raleigh
Poole’s macaroni & cheese is an absolute must order. I love their seasonal favorites and this crab salad was so good!
Poole’s Diner is at 428 South McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Cobb Salad at My Way Tavern in Fuquay-Varina
One of mine and David’s go-to spots for a good dinner is My Way Tavern and their cobb salad is elite. There are two other locations, one in Raleigh and one in Holly Springs.
My Way Tavern is at 2136 Gathering Sq Ct, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526
Deluxe McSteak at East Cut Sandwich Bar in Raleigh
My goodness, I cannot express my love of East Cut Sandwich Bar. Their Deluxe McSteak with curly fries is my go-to order. There are two locations — one in Raleigh‘s Iron Works and one in Durham. They are equally delightful!
East Cut Sandwich Bar is at 1101 E Whitaker Mill Rd Suite 126, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Tuna Tartare at the Village Tavern in Raleigh
I love a tuna tartare and this one at Village Tavern in North Hills in Raleigh is exceptional with this wonton chips and the avocado bottom.
Village Tavern is at 4140 Lassiter Mill Rd Ste 140, Raleigh, NC 27609.
Double-Double Smash Burger at Gussie’s in Raleigh
Y’all, I *love* Gussie’s andtheir disco brunch is so fun! Their double-double smash burger is a great brunch option, especially if you like savory otions.
Gussie’s is at 927 W Morgan St Suite 116, Raleigh, NC 27603.
Single Burger at Bar Virgile in Durham
Before we went to a Durham Bills game, we went to Bar Virgile for a single burger and a cocktail before heading to DBAP.
Bar Virgile is at 105 S Mangum St Unit #1, Durham, NC 27701.
Chicano Chicken Tacos at Centro in Raleigh
I normally get the Centro bowl for dinner; however, their tacos are outstanding! The Chicano Chicken Tacos are my favorite + a Smokestack Lightning cocktail.
Centro is at 106 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Pimento’d Oysters at St. Roch in Raleigh
One of my all-time favorite meals in Raleigh are pimento’d oysters and pomme frites at St. Roch.
St. Roch is at 223 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Tuna Carpaccio at Nanas Rockwood in Durham
My friend, Jen, and I went to Nanas Rockwood in Durham for dinner and while we had so many great dining options, the tuna carpaccio was the stand out.
Nanas Rockwood is at 2514 University Dr, Durham, NC 27707.
Pepperoni Pizza at Oakwood Pizza Box in Raleigh
David and I celebrated our anniversary in a way that we always enjoy — with pepperoni pizza at Oakwood Pizza Box.
Oakwood Pizza Box is at 610 N Person St, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Mayton Burger at Peck & Plume at the Mayton Inn in Cary
After doing my brand photo shoot with Stacey at the Mayton Inn, we had lunch at Peck & Plume and the Mayton Burger was so good. SO! good.
Peck and Plume is in the Mayton Inn at 301 S Academy St, Cary, NC 27511.
Chopped Cobb-esque Salad at Birdie’s in Raleigh
I love a Cobb salad and this one with the radish is exceptional! Birdie’s is a beautiful location on Raleigh‘s Fayetteville St. Their deviled eggs are also excellent.
Birdie’s is at 150 Fayetteville St, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Tomato Gazpacho at Ajja in Raleigh
Ajja is such a fun spot, especially for their seasonal food options. This tomato and watermelon gazpacho lives rent free in my head still! It was so delicious and refreshing on a hot and humid evening.
Ajja is at 209 Bickett Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27608.
Chicken, Bacon, Ranch Quesadilla at Chili’s in Holly Springs
Listen, this meal was the making of a conversation with Katy and Kayte. We love a good ‘foodie” spot, though you cannot beat an original. We had a leisurely lunch here before heading to a local spot for a post-meal cocktail and it was such a fun day!
Chili’s is at 111 Grand Hill Pl, Holly Springs, NC 27540.
Crispy Halloumi Bites at Boatman Spirits Co. in Raleigh
Boatman Spirits Co. in Seaboard Station is such a unique spot, and the crispy halloumi bites were a stand out in an incredible menu offering.
Boatman Spirits Co. is at 713 Seaboard Station Dr, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Chopped BBQ Sandwich at Sam Jones BBQ in Raleigh
Talk about Eastern North Carolina BBQ royalty. The fact that there is this delicious spot in Raleigh is truly a gift. The chopped BBQ sandwich with slaw and macaroni & cheese is my go-to order at Sam Jones BBQ. There are two locations, one in Winterville and one in downtown Raleigh.
Sam Jones BBQ is at 502 W Lenoir St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Colombian Buñuelos at Mala Pata in Raleigh
These were so good we ordered them for both a starter and dessert! The butter they are served with really sets them over the top! Our whole meal at Mala Pata was fantastic, from the Lechoncito tacos to pasillo de humo, I am still thinking about the whole dining experience.
Mala Pata is at 2431 Crabtree Blvd Suite 102, Raleigh, NC 27604.
Truffle Gnocchi at Glasshouse Kitchen in Durham
This dish was exceptional and not too heavy or rich despite the flavors. An absolute must-order at this beautiful restaurant in RTP!
Glasshouse Kitchen is at 5 Laboratory Dr, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709.
Lemon Pepper Boneless Wings at Wingin’ It in Fuquay-Varina
One of our go-to spots in the area to watch a Bills game is Wingin’ It in Fuquay-Varina. Their dry rub lemon pepper and tots are my go-to order.
Wingin’ It is at 1625 N Main St #109, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526.
Deviled Eggs and Dill Pimento Cheese at Wye Hill in Raleigh
Wye Hill is truly one of my favorite spots for a patio meal no matter the season and the deviled eggs and dill pimento cheese are my go-to orders every time.
Wye Hill is at 201 S Boylan Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603
Smash Burger at Lakewood Social in Durham
Lakewood Social is such a great, casual spot for a leisurely meal that has an incredible wine and beer program, too. Their smash burger is outstanding and those fries are so good.
Lakewood Social is at 1920 Chapel Hill Rd, Durham, NC 27707.
Shack Burger at Shake Shack in Raleigh‘s Village District
If I am in Village District and in a time crunch, a Shake Shack is my go-to option. Their shake burger with fries and a glass of rosé is so good.
Shake Shack is at 2010 Clark Ave, Raleigh, NC 27605.
TFC at Tamasha in Raleigh
I was so excited to try Tamasha with my girl friends, who are all willing to try new things and share dishes, which is one of my favorite ways to dine. Tamasha is a delicious spot, and the TFC was so good. Ask for extra jalapeños!
Tamasha is at 4200 Six Forks Rd Suite # 130, Raleigh, NC 27609.
Dr. Barb’s Suggestion at Side Street Restaurant in Raleigh
Side Street Restaurant is one of my favorite hidden gems for lunch in Raleigh. Dr. Barb’s Suggestion without onion is my go-to order and if they have tomato soup on the menu, get that as your side!
Side Street Restaurant is at 225 N Bloodworth St #427, Raleigh, NC 27601.
Western North Carolina
There is just something about eating in the mountains that makes every meal feel a little more special. Maybe it is the cooler air, the cozy restaurants, or the fact that most days start with a scenic drive before you ever sit down at the table. From charming small towns to mountain resort favorites, these Western North Carolina meals were the perfect mix of comfort food, elevated Southern dishes, and the kind of places you plan an entire weekend around.
Buffalo Chicken Wrap at The Town Tavern in Blowing Rock
My goodness, The Town Tavern in Blowing Rock is such a fun spot! The outdoor patio, live music, and their food is excellent. The buffalo chicken wrap is so good, though David’s chicken philly was something I would order next time. Bonus points, the patio is pet friendly.
The Town Tavern is at 1182 Main St, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.
Blackened Trout at The Speckled Trout in Blowing Rock
Whenever I talk about Blowing Rock, I talk about how delicious The Speckled Trout is and their blackened trout is one of my favorite meals ever.
The Speckled Trout is at 922 Main St, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.
Ale House Burger at Blowing Rock Brewery Ale House in Blowing Rock
David and I had a lovely fall evening dinner on the patio with Ruthie and Winston at the Blowing Rock Brewery Ale House and the ale house burger with house made chips was perfect.
Blowing Rock Brewery Ale House is at 152 Sunset Dr, Blowing Rock, NC 28605.
Pork Belly Ramen at Ukiah Japanese Steakhouse in Asheville
We dined at Ukiah Japenese Steakhouse for a girls’ weekend in Asheville and the pork belly ramen was a crowd favorite.
Ukiah Japanese Steakhouse is at 121 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801.
Caviar Deviled Eggs at The Katharine in Winston-Salem
Several years ago, I had one of the best meals of my life at The Katharine in Winston-Salem, so I was thrilled to return with David. We started with these caviar deviled eggs and they were the perfect start to the meal.
The Katharine is in The Cardinal at 401 N Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
Dirty South Biscuit at Krankie’s in Winston-Salem
Krankie’s came highly recommended to us, so we headed here for a leisurely breakfast before getting started on our afternoon plans in Winston-Salem. The dirty south biscuit comes with pimento cheese and hot sauce and now lives rent free in my head and their seasonal latte was a delight!
Krankie’s is at 211 3rd St E, Winston-Salem, NC 27101.
North Carolina Small Towns
Some of the most memorable meals of the year came from small towns and lesser-known corners of the state, particularly in Eastern North Carolina. These are the spots where you might not expect to find such great food — and then you are completely blown away. From local cafés to family-owned restaurants, these meals are a reminder that you do not have to be in a big city to find something truly special (and very worth the drive).
Spencer’s Tavern Bison Burger at the Colonial Inn in Hillsborough
One of my first meals out in 2025 was at Spencer’s Tavern at the Colonial Inn with a friend in Hillsborough. We split the turkey sandwich and were blown away with how good the Spencer’s Tavern Burger was.
Spencer’s Tavern is in The Colonial Inn at 153 W King St, Hillsborough, NC 27278.
Chef’s Tasting with the Elevated Wine Pairing at Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro
David and I have dined at Fearrington House Bar multiple times, though for my birthday, I wanted to do the Chef’s Tasting Menu. It was simply out-of-this-world and a must-do experience. Add it to your North Carolina Bucket List!
Fearrington House Restaurant is at 230 Market St, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
Pasta at Tesoro in Carrboro
Tesoro in Carrboro had been on my list of places to try for years and I was so excited to cross it off my list. It was absolutely better than I expected.
Tesoro is at 100 E Weaver St, Carrboro, NC 27510.
Mushroom Toast at The Counter at Chef & the Farmer in Kinston
This seasonal menu option at The Counter at Chef and the Farmer in Kinston is truly special. Keep your eyes out for when it returns to the menu this spring.
The Counter at the Chef & the Farmer is at 120 W Gordon St, Kinston, NC 28501.
Grassfed Beef Burger on Everything Bun at the Fearrington House Bar in Pittsboro
This burger is truly exceptional with that everything bun and that sauce. The Fearrington House Bar is a wonderful option for a meal after spending the day exploring the village.
Fearrington House Restaurant is at 230 Market St, Pittsboro, NC 27312.
Blackened Fish at the Bistro at River Forest Manor in Belhaven
The Bistro at River Forest Manor is a new spot in Belhaven and their blackened fresh fish was prepared so well. This is a beautiful spot to visit while in town. Make a reservation!
The Bistro at River Forest Manor is at 738 E Main St, Belhaven, NC 27810.
Pepperoni Pizza and Cheesy Stix at The Depot in Columbia
We got a pepperoni pizza and cheesy stix as takeaway from The Depot to eat at our stay at the Blue Juniper Inn in Columbia and it was *chef’s kiss.*
The Depot is at 412 Scuppernong Dr, Columbia, NC 27925.
Cheesesteak Hoagie at Barnyard Betsy’s in Creswell
We stopped at Barnyard Betsy’s on our way back from Columbia, and I must tell you to add this to your roadtrip itineraries to the beach this spring and summer. The food is outstanding and the staff is incredible! This is a true hidden gem in eastern North Carolina.
Barnyard Betsy’s is at 106 E Main St, Creswell, NC 27928.
Pizza Crackers at Pizza Villa in Kinston
I spent a weekend with my friend, Hannah, in Lenoir County, and she took me to Pizza Villa to try pizza crackers and honestly, I get the obsession.
Pizza Villa is at 1400 W Vernon Ave, Kinston, NC 28504.
Bacon & Cheese Bomb at The Farmer & the Dail in Snow Hill
I had been wanting to try the Farmer & the Dail, and as someone who does not really love breakfast foods, this bacon & cheese bomb was an excellent start to the day.
The Farmer and the Dail is at 1329 US-258, Snow Hill, NC 28580.
Cup and a Half at The Belted Goat at Fearrington Village in Pittsboro
My ultimate comfort meal is tomato soup and a grilled cheese, so this order at Fearrington‘s The Belted Goat is one of my favorites. I usually spend one day a month at Fearrington to reset and do some work from Galloway’s, and this is how I start it off.
The Belted Goat is at 210 Market St, Fearrington, NC 27312.
Supreme Totchos at Aaktun in Clayton
Aaktun opened its second location in Clayton and the supreme totchos were so good! This place is a whole vibe!
Aaktun is at 401 E Main St, Clayton, NC 27520.
Chicken Philly at Angry Troll Brewing in Elkin
I had this meal back in 2024 and had been craving it again, so when I got to go back to Elkin in November, I immediately went here for dinner and it did not disappoint! There is a second location in Mount Airy now!
Angry Troll Brewing is at 222 E Main St, Elkin, NC 28621.
Pesto Pizza with Feta and Olives at Elkin Creek Vineyard in Elkin
The Elkin Creek Vineyard Sunday pizza is such a unique dining experience in Elkin! You have to make a reservation in advance so that they can ensure you have a pizza. Get the pesto pizza with the feta and olives.
Elkin Creek Vineyard is at 318 Elkin Creek Mill Rd, Elkin, NC 28621.
Marshallberg Caviar at Dynamis Estate Wines in Jonesville
One of my favorite experiences in 2025 was the champagne and caviar tasting at Dynamis Estate Wines with Glory!
Dynamis Estate Wines is at 1004 Highland Rd, Jonesville, NC 28642.
Bianca Flatbread at Herringbone in Edenton
I love a good white pizza and the Bianca flatbread at Herringbone in Edenton is excellent!
Herringbone is at 119 W Water St, Edenton, NC 27932.
Beyond North Carolina
As much as I love eating my way around North Carolina, a few trips in 2025 gave me the chance to try some unforgettable meals outside the state, too. These were the vacation dinners, leisurely brunch stops, and quick treats that ended up being just as memorable as the destinations themselves. Whether it was a planned restaurant reservation or a happy accident we stumbled into, these meals absolutely earned their place on this year’s list.
Tuna Tartare at Willi’s Wine Bar in Santa Rosa, CA
When I took my first trip to the west coast with my girlfriends, we ate as some amazing restaurants, and this tuna tartare at Willi’s Wine Bar was a true standout.
Willi’s Wine Bar is at 1415 Town and Country Dr, Santa Rosa, CA 95404.
Salmon Caesar Salad and Fries at Josh Ash Restaurant in Santa Rosa, CA
For brunch while we were in California, we had a lovely afternoon at Josh Ash Restaurant at Vinarosa Resort and it was incredible. I ordered the Caesar salad with salmon and the fries.
Josh Ash Restaurant is at 4330 Barnes Rd, Santa Rosa, CA 95403.
Casear Salad and Fries at One East in Kansas City, MO
One of my first stops when getting to Kansas City is to grab a martini, fries, and a Caesar salad at One East before getting my trip started.
One East is in the Crown Center at 1 E Pershing Rd, Kansas City, MO 64108.
Bacon Cheeseburger and Tots at Town Topic Burgers in Kansas City, MO
Town Topic is a must-visit in Kansas City! Get the bacon cheeseburger and tots. My friend, Rich, and I make a point of eating here at least once while we are in town.
Town Topic Burgers is at 1900 W Baltimore Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108.
Roasted Bone Marrow at Extra Virgin in Kansas City, MO
This restaurant is such a delicious spot with a unique menu in Kansas City. The roasted bone marrow, roasted feta, bao buns, and grilled octopus are fantastic.
Extra Virgin is at 1900 Main St, Kansas City, MO 64108.
Burnt Ends Sammie with Potato Casserole at Arthur Bryant’s BBQ in Kansas City, MO
I always make a point of getting to Arthur Bryant’s BBQ when I am in Kansas City for a meal and the burnt ends sandwich and potato casserole is my order.
Arthur Bryant’s BBQ is at 1727 Brooklyn Ave, Kansas City, MO 64127.
Southwest Cobb Salad and Tots at Rockhill Grille in Kansas City, MO
This Southwest Cobb salad is such a unique take on a Cobb salad and I love these cheese stuffed tots at The Rockhill Grille. Truly a staple meal from me when visiting Kansas City.
The Rockhill Grille is at 2000 Grand Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64108.
Charcuterie at Le Globe in Bordeaux
When I went to Bordeaux, my first stop with Kayd was finding a place for charcuterie and champagne. I will absolutely recommend Le Globe to anyone who visits Bordeaux!
Le Globe is at 25 Pl. Gambetta, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Oysters at Vignobles et Châteaux Wine Bar in St. Emilion
This lunch in Saint-Émilion is one that I keep telling everyone about. There were so many stellar items, though these fresh oysters were the star of the show.
Vignobles et Châteaux Wine Bar is at 1 Rue du Clocher, 33330 Saint-Émilion, France.
Final Thoughts
Putting together this list every year is always one of my favorite ways to reflect on where we have been, what we have done, and — let’s be honest — what we have eaten. Food has a way of marking seasons of life, trips with people you love, and even the simple joy of a really good random Tuesday night dinner. If nothing else, I hope this list gives you a few new places to add to your North Carolina restaurant bucket list (and maybe a little inspiration for your next weekend getaway). And if you have a favorite meal from 2025 that you think I should try this year, you know I am always taking recommendations.
