Top 10 Lunch Spots in Raleigh, North Carolina
When it comes to lunch, nobody has to skimp! Raleigh has a diverse and vibrant food scene, which includes a bustling and hip lunch scene! From traditional Southern comfort food to innovative fusion cuisine, there is something to satisfy every palate. Let’s get cracking with out list of the 10 Best Raleigh Lunch restaurants!
1. Capital Club 16
Nestled in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Capital Club 16 is a must-visit spot known for its unique blend of American and European cuisines. The restaurant stands out for its commitment to locally-sourced ingredients, creating an authentic farm-to-table experience.
Signature Dishes
The standout dishes at Capital Club 16 include the Roasted Carolina Tomato Soup paired with a five-cheese grilled cheese sandwich. On a cooler day, this combo provides ultimate comfort. Another favorite is the Tarragon Chicken Salad Sandwich, served with a side of German potato salad.
2. Coquette
Situated in North Hills, Coquette is a charming French bistro with an extensive lunch menu. The restaurant’s elegant ambience and exquisite cuisine make it a popular choice for a leisurely lunch.
Must-Try Menu Items
Kick-off your meal with the Warm Brie Biscuits, a crowd favorite. The Seafood Crepe, loaded with fresh seafood, is a must-try. Pair your meal with a Cassis and Soda for a refreshing touch.
3. Heirloom
Heirloom, a popular spot in the Warehouse District of Raleigh, is a perfect blend of a coffee shop and a lunch spot. With a great selection of coffee, tea, wine, and beer, it’s a place where you can relax and enjoy a meal in a cozy setting.
Lunch Favorites
One of their most popular dishes is the Taiwanese Fried Chicken Sando, served with a side of crispy fingerlings. Their diverse menu offers a range of other delectable options to satisfy your midday hunger.
4. Side Street Restaurant
Tucked away in Historic Oakwood, Side Street Restaurant is a hidden gem offering a delightful dining experience. This quaint restaurant serves up delicious soups, sandwiches, and sweet treats in a charming old-fashioned environment.
Don’t Miss Out On
Dr. Barb’s Suggestion, a popular sandwich, with a side of soup is a crowd-favorite. And remember, no meal at Side Street Restaurant is complete without trying their delectable desserts.
5. Tazza Kitchen
With two locations in the Triangle area, Tazza Kitchen is a great spot for lunch, offering both indoor and patio seating. Known for their wood-fired cooking, Tazza Kitchen serves seasonally inspired ingredients sourced from trusted purveyors and farmers.
Top Picks
Start your meal with their Smoked Pimiento Cheese and then move on to the Baja Bowl, which you can customize with chicken or shrimp. This restaurant promises a delightful and satisfying lunch experience.
6. Brewery Bhavana
Brewery Bhavana is more than just a restaurant; it’s a unique concept that combines a brewery, flower shop, and book store, creating a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Their menu features an array of Dim Sum options, each one crafted meticulously to deliver a burst of flavors.
What to Order
The Scallion Pancakes are a must-try, offering a balance of crispy and soft textures. If you’re a dumpling lover, consider ordering different types to share with your dining companions.
7. Transfer Co. Food Hall
Transfer Co. Food Hall is a food lover’s paradise. This market brings together local food businesses under one roof, offering a variety of cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, tacos, or Asian fare, Transfer Co. has it all.
Must-Try Spots
From the cheesy goodness of Bella’s Wood Fired Pizza & Tapas to the freshest seafood from Locals Seafood Market & Oyster Bar, Transfer Co. Food Hall offers a vast array of choices. Don’t forget to try the empanadas at Che Empanadas for a Latin American twist.
8. Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
Beasley’s Chicken + Honey serves up Southern-style chicken and waffles that are sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings. Their menu is packed with favorites that locals love, making it a popular lunch spot in Raleigh.
Must-Haves
The Chicken and Waffle dish is a crowd-pleaser, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory. For those seeking a spicy kick, the Carolina Reaper Sandwich is a must-try.
9. Irregardless Café
Irregardless Café has been a staple in Raleigh’s dining scene for over 40 years. Known for its farm-to-table approach, the restaurant serves a variety of dishes catering to vegetarians, vegans, and meat lovers alike.
Favorites
The menu at Irregardless Café changes daily, reflecting the freshest seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re a fan of hearty meat dishes or prefer plant-based cuisine, you’re sure to find something you love.
10. The Pit
Last but not least, no culinary tour of Raleigh would be complete without a visit to The Pit. As the name suggests, this restaurant specializes in authentic pit-cooked barbecue, serving up a variety of meats cooked slow and low over a wood fire.
Must-Try
Their Eastern NC Chopped BBQ is a must-try, offering a traditional taste of North Carolina barbecue. Pair it with a side of Brunswick Stew and Hush Puppies for a truly Southern meal.
Raleigh’s diverse food scene offers an array of lunch spots, each lending a unique flavor and dining experience. Whether you’re a resident foodie or a tourist on a culinary adventure, these restaurants are sure to provide a memorable lunch experience in Raleigh, North Carolina. So why wait? Embark on this culinary journey and explore the vibrant flavors of Raleigh.
Perhaps a cup O’ Joe and a bagel for lunch? While underrated, this lunch ritual is quite popular! And wouldn’t you know it, Raleigh has some of the best options for this “alternative” mid-day treat. Read our guide to the best coffee shops in Raleigh right here!