Downtown Raleigh Restaurants

Downtown Raleigh Restaurants

If you are visiting, you're a local or you are considering moving to downtown Raleigh, ask us any questions you may have about visiting, living and working here. We live and work in downtown Raleigh so we'd love to share our knowledge and passion for living here.

One of the many great things about living downtown are the fabulous choices in restaurants and nightlife. Many cities fold up at night, but we are lucky that downtown Raleigh has a pretty vibrant dinner scene too. First Friday also makes for a fun evening out, so don't miss that!

Here are some of the Downtown Raleigh Restaurants we like to frequent.

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern - This is a great restaurant for celebrations and special nights out. We love the ambiance and the charm of the historic building. It is highly regarded by local as one of the top dining experiences in Raleigh.

The Pit - If you are a fan of BBQ - North Carolina style, you will love The Pit. It's a nice place to take out of town guests or to go with large groups.

Sono - An intimate sushi bar on Fayetteville Street in the heart of downtown with wonderful, fresh sushi. Our go to sushi spot, especially since we can walk there!

Siti - Nice place for a leisurely lunch when you are in the mood for great Middle Eastern, Lebanese to be specific.

The Mecca - Popular with the late night crowd. They also offer breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Bida Manda - If it's mouth watering Loatian food such as curries, larb and Asian noodle dishes you crave, you must try this restaurant! A great new addition to the downtown food scene.

Chuck's, Poole's Downtown Diner, and Beasley's Chicken + Honey are creations of successful downtown restaurateur Ashley Christensen who is one of the innovators in downtown Raleigh's vibrant dining scene. Her other additions are Fox Liquor Bar and Joule Coffee.

Humble Pie - Tapas style food served up in a cool, hip vibe in the downtown warehouse district. Live music is a bonus and an awesome Sunday brunch!

Raleigh Times Bar - A downtown classic in the 100 year old Times building. Savor their delicious take on bar food and a large selection of Belgian beers.

The Square Rabbit - Cute little bakery and deli right next door to our office. Way to convenient for a sugar cookie fix!

Capital Club 16 - If it's steak you crave, this is the spot to try. Their jazzed up all American menu is so good. They also have a nice brunch.

The Rockford - Unique and original menu in a nice setting. Perfect spot for lunch or to catch some live music.

Big Ed's City Market - Our go to breakfast spot in downtown Raleigh!

Bu Ku - Global Street Food - Need we say more? Prepare to be wowed. Friday nights enjoy flights of wine featuring interesting selections of the evening.

There are many more great Downtown Raleigh Restaurants to try. We are still working our way through them and will add more soon!