25 Essential North Carolina Tables
From coastal enclaves to downtown institutions, these are the restaurants defining the dining conversation across North Carolina.
JD's Smokehouse
Lenoir
Ribs, pulled pork & brisket meet Southern sides in this casual BBQ joint with music-centric decor.
The Kill Devil Grill
Kill Devil Hills
Casual spot serves American fare & wine in former diner on the National Register of Historic Places.
Nawab Indian Cuisine
Winston-Salem
Relaxed restaurant offering traditional curry & tandoori entrees, plus vegan & vegetarian options.
Zaxby's Chicken Fingers & Buffalo Wings
Goldsboro, North Carolina
Chain eatery serving up fried chicken fingers, wings, sandwiches & other American comfort food.
Posana Downtown
Asheville, North Carolina
Contemporary American cuisine featuring local ingredients served in a chic space with a patio.
JINYA Ramen Bar - Ally Charlotte Center
Charlotte, North Carolina
Vibrant gathering place spotlighting ramen entrees & finger foods, plus rice & poke bowls.
Angie's Restaurant
Raleigh, North Carolina
Southern breakfast & lunch classics are served at this charming eatery with an easygoing vibe.
Jersey Mike's Subs
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.
Stanbury
Raleigh, North Carolina
Hip, rustic venue for creative, seasonal New American small plates & entrees, plus craft cocktails.
El Tapatio Mexican Restaurant
Wilson, North Carolina
Casual joint offering familiar Mexican dishes such as fajitas & chimichangas in a colorful setting.
Byrd's BBQ Restaurant & Catering
Durham, North Carolina
Cozy, comfy restaurant offering down-home breakfast & barbecue plates, along with catering.
bartaco
Durham, North Carolina
Hip eatery for tacos & rice bowls, plus Latin cocktails, in a beachy setting with a large patio.
Biscuit Head
Asheville, North Carolina
Casual breakfast & lunch hub serving massive biscuits with a variety of toppings & pairings.
Sullivan's Steakhouse
Raleigh, North Carolina
Steakhouse chain serving beef, seafood & cocktails in swanky surrounds with live music.
Blue Mountain Pizza
Asheville, North Carolina
Lively joint for pizza & American fare, plus live music, in a classic, Main-Street-USA saloon space.
Mr. P's Bistro
Southport, North Carolina
Old-school, relaxed spot serving Lowcountry-style oysters, crab & more, plus prime rib & cocktails.
Port Land Grille
Wilmington, North Carolina
Chef-owned find featuring imaginative American fare, plus an ample wine list, in a cozy atmosphere.
Fresh Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta
Asheville, North Carolina
Artisanal, wood-fired pizzas, locally grown produce & craft beers in rustic little house & patio.
Midtown Cafe and Dessertery
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Casual bakery & restaurant featuring classic breakfasts & hearty comfort food, plus prepared foods.
Nepal House
Raleigh, North Carolina
Identifies as Asian-owned. Service options: No-contact delivery, Delivery, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service. Popular for: Lunch.
Jason's Restaurant
Ocracoke, North Carolina
Low-key eatery featuring American & Italian staples such as pizza, steak, seafood & pasta dishes.
Taaza Indian Bistro Clemmons
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Service options: Outdoor seating, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery, Delivery, Drive-through, Onsite services, Takeout, Dine-in. Highlights: Fast service.
Ma'Luz Mexican Grill (Mi Pueblo)
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Local Mexican chain serving a lengthy menu of traditional dishes in a casual atmosphere.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
Asheville, North Carolina
Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting.
IHOP
Arden, North Carolina
Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.