33 of the Best Places to Eat in North Carolina

Get ready to chow down on some seriously good eats in North Carolina! We’re taking you on a tasty tour from the mountains to the coast, exploring local joints that serve up everything from finger-lickin’ barbecue to inventive plant-based dishes.

A large, three-story building with a green roof sits beside a North Carolina waterfront marina, surrounded by trees, a parking lot, and boats docked along wooden piers on a sunny day.

1587 – Manteo

Nestled in the cozy town of Manteo, 1587 dishes up a delightful dining experience inspired by coastal flavors. With a menu that boasts fresh seafood and mouthwatering steaks, this waterfront restaurant takes you on a tasty journey with the bonus of scenic views.

A cozy North Carolina restaurant with a pink and green exterior, ramp to the entrance, and lush plants. A wooden sign reads “Back Porch Restaurant” with a teacup illustration and an “Open” sign nearby.

Back Porch – Ocracoke

In the heart of Ocracoke, the Back Porch is a hidden gem known for its laid-back atmosphere and scrumptious seafood. Picture yourself enjoying a seafood feast while surrounded by the island’s unique charm—it’s a must-visit for those seeking an authentic coastal dining experience.

A person in a striped apron holds a grill tray with a cooked fish fillet topped with fresh herbs, served on a bed of grilled vegetables—a classic North Carolina cookout delight.

Salt Box Seafood Joint – Durham

Dive into the flavors of the sea at Salt Box Seafood Joint in Durham. With a commitment to fresh and locally sourced ingredients, this seafood spot offers a casual yet incredibly tasty menu, featuring everything from fish sandwiches to flavorful shrimp boils.

People stand in line inside a North Carolina bakery, waiting to order at the counter, where staff are serving behind a display case filled with donuts and pastries. Large menus are displayed on the wall above the counter.

Rise – Durham

For breakfast enthusiasts, Rise in Durham is a haven of heavenly biscuits and donuts. Picture yourself savoring a warm, freshly baked biscuit—whether sweet or savory, Rise has a delightful array of options that will elevate your morning meal.

A plate with North Carolina-style waffles topped with fried chicken, cashews, and syrup, served with scoops of ice cream. Nearby are a bowl of fresh fruit, a syrup dispenser, and salt and pepper shakers on a white tablecloth.

Dame’s – Durham

Craving the perfect chicken and waffles? Look no further than Dame’s in Durham. Known for its unique spin on this classic dish, Dame’s Chicken & Waffles promises a soulful and satisfying experience that keeps locals and visitors coming back for more.

Elegant restaurant interior with white tablecloths, chandeliers, and framed mirrors on cream walls. Several people are seated at tables as a server attends to guests. Large windows let in North Carolina natural light.

Heirloom Restaurant – Charlotte

Nestled in Charlotte, Heirloom Restaurant celebrates the flavors of the Carolinas with a farm-to-fork approach. With a menu that changes with the seasons, Heirloom ensures a culinary adventure showcasing the best local ingredients.

People stand in a long line outside Price’s Chicken Coop, a North Carolina favorite since 1962. The sunny scene highlights the brick building at 1614 Camden Rd, with a large sign advertising fish, chicken, and shrimp.

Price’s Chicken Coop – Charlotte

For a taste of classic Southern fried chicken, Price’s Chicken Coop in Charlotte is a go-to spot. This iconic eatery has been serving up crispy, golden-brown chicken for decades, earning its place as a beloved local institution.

A cozy North Carolina restaurant dining room with wooden floors, stone fireplace, rustic decor, and set tables with black napkins. String lights and an “Eat” sign hang above the fireplace. Large windows and a mounted deer head add character.

Gamekeeper – Boone

In the scenic town of Boone, Gamekeeper offers a unique dining experience with a focus on game meats and locally sourced ingredients. The rustic charm combined with exquisite flavors makes Gamekeeper a top choice for those seeking an adventurous palate.

A charming gray house in North Carolina with a large tree in front, a red brick chimney, a front porch, gazebo on the left, and a Cafe sign. The entrance is adorned with flowers, potted plants, and features a wheelchair accessible sign.

Colington Cafe – Kill Devil Hills

With its coastal-inspired menu, Colington Cafe in Kill Devil Hills provides an intimate dining experience. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood or savoring a perfectly cooked steak, Colington Cafe captures the essence of Outer Banks dining.

A large wooden building with a wraparound deck overlooks a body of water in North Carolina. Purple flowers and green shrubs line a stone path leading to the house. A bird flies over the water under a blue sky.

Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe – Nags Head

Situated in Nags Head, Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe combines waterfront dining with a menu highlighting North Carolina’s seafood bounty. From oysters to crab cakes, this eatery offers a true taste of the Outer Banks.

A modern restaurant dining area in North Carolina features wooden tables, red and black chairs, neatly set with glasses and napkins. The bright space boasts large windows and lush plants as decoration.

RX – Wilmington

Located in Wilmington, RX Restaurant offers a unique dining experience in a historic pharmacy setting. Step into the past as you dine amidst vintage apothecary decor and enjoy a menu inspired by Southern cuisine with a modern twist. From hearty brunch options to inventive dinner dishes, RX serves up a variety of farm-to-table fare using locally sourced ingredients. Sip on craft cocktails at the bar or relax on the outdoor patio while soaking in the charming ambiance.

Bright, inviting North Carolina beach shop interior with wooden floors, clothing racks on the left, shelves of gifts and accessories, and a counter shaped like a boat labeled BEACH SHOP at the center.

The Beach Shop and Grill – Topsail Beach

Located in Topsail Beach, The Beach Shop Grill offers a laid-back dining experience with a beachy vibe. This cozy restaurant serves up a variety of tasty dishes, from fresh seafood to juicy burgers and sandwiches. With its friendly atmosphere and ocean-inspired decor, it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite after a day at the beach or enjoy a leisurely meal with family and friends. Whether you’re craving seafood classics or comfort food favorites, The Beach Shop Grill has something for everyone to enjoy.

A roadside sign reads Lexington Barbecue in bold letters, with a road, cars, trees, and a few buildings visible in the North Carolina sunset.

Lexington BBQ – Lexington

Known as the “Barbecue Capital of the World,” Lexington BBQ serves up mouthwatering, slow-cooked goodness. Dive into a plate of tender pork shoulder paired with the signature Lexington-style barbecue sauce for an authentic taste of North Carolina barbecue.

A rustic gray building with a porch and a sign reading Allen & Son Bar-B-Que sits among trees in North Carolina, with several cars parked in front and an OPEN sign in the window.

Allen Son BBQ Pittsboro

In the heart of Pittsboro, Allen Son BBQ continues the tradition of exceptional North Carolina barbecue. With a focus on wood-smoked meats and homemade sauces, this family-owned spot captures the essence of a classic Southern barbecue joint.

A restaurant exterior in North Carolina surrounded by lush greenery, with large windows and a sign featuring a pig and the name “Cook’s Corner.” A large pink pig statue sits atop the sign under a clear blue sky.

Crook’s Corner – Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill’s culinary gem, Crook’s Corner, brings Southern comfort food to a whole new level. Renowned for its innovative twists on traditional dishes, this eatery offers a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience.

A busy bar or restaurant in North Carolina with people sitting at the counter and tables, talking and eating. Colorful string lights hang above, and a menu is displayed on boards behind the bar. The atmosphere is lively and warm.

Poole’s Downtown Diner – Raleigh

Located in Raleigh, Poole’s Downtown Diner is a modern take on the classic diner, serving up elevated comfort food. Indulge in dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and don’t miss out on their famous macaroni and cheese.

A metal plate with crispy North Carolina fried chicken pieces, a square of cornbread, and a small bowl of coleslaw on a wooden table.

Beasley’s – Raleigh

Craving fried chicken? Beasley’s in Raleigh has you covered. This Southern-inspired eatery is a go-to spot for crispy fried chicken, comforting sides, and a cozy atmosphere that captures the essence of Southern hospitality.

A bright green building with large windows and a yellow sign reading Fiction Kitchen in bold letters above the entrance. Located in North Carolina, the door has the number 428 and a black awning above it.

Fiction Kitchen – Raleigh

For those with diverse dietary preferences, Fiction Kitchen in Raleigh offers a plant-based menu that surprises and delights. Explore inventive, meat-free dishes that showcase the creativity of plant-based cuisine.

Two men stand smiling under a large sign that reads Wilbers Barbecue at a classic North Carolina red brick restaurant on a cloudy day. A Coca-Cola sign and empty parking lot are in the background.

Wilber’s BBQ – Goldsboro

A Goldsboro institution, Wilber’s BBQ is a must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts. With a commitment to tradition, this spot serves up pit-cooked pork and all the classic Southern sides for a true taste of Eastern North Carolina barbecue.

A variety of gourmet dishes, including North Carolina grilled meats, roasted vegetables, leafy greens, dips, and sauces, are arranged on white plates and bowls atop a rustic wooden table.

Chef & the Farmer – Kinston

Celebrity chef Vivian Howard’s Chef & the Farmer in Kinston is a culinary destination with a focus on Southern-inspired, seasonally driven dishes. Immerse yourself in a farm-to-table experience that highlights the best of the region’s produce.

A serving of North Carolina pulled pork barbecue, cornbread, and coleslaw in paper trays, with a plastic fork and a styrofoam cup on a table inside Skylight Inn BBQ restaurant, with blurred diners in the background.

Skylight Inn – Ayden

As a James Beard Award-winning barbecue joint, Skylight Inn in Ayden is a testament to North Carolina’s barbecue legacy. Savor whole hog barbecue with crispy skin, a hallmark of Eastern North Carolina barbecue.

A cozy, rustic restaurant interior in North Carolina with wooden walls and decor, featuring a large horse sculpture made of driftwood. Diners are seated at tables with white tablecloths, while a server walks in the background.

Artisanal – Banner Elk

Situated in the picturesque town of Banner Elk, Artisanal offers a refined dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The menu, featuring contemporary American cuisine, reflects the flavors of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

A stylish North Carolina bar with a marble countertop, five tan leather barstools, and shelves stocked with liquor bottles. Gold details, white tile walls, lush plants, and a large wooden-framed mirror complete the inviting space.

Kindred – Davidson

Kindred in Davidson is a culinary haven, known for its modern Southern cuisine. With an emphasis on seasonal ingredients, this eatery invites guests to experience the artistry of its dishes in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Elegant restaurant interior with wooden walls and ceiling, round tables with white tablecloths, cushioned chairs, large windows with natural light, and tasteful decor including vases and artwork. The warm, inviting atmosphere reflects North Carolina charm.

Herons – Cary

Nestled within The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Herons in Cary is a fine dining destination that offers an exquisite culinary journey. With a focus on contemporary American cuisine, Herons provides a luxurious dining experience amidst a sophisticated ambiance.

A North Carolina fried fish sandwich on a bun with yellow mustard, topped with chopped slaw, chili, and a slice of tomato, served on crumpled parchment paper on a rustic wooden surface.

The Snappy Lunch – Mt. Airy

For a taste of nostalgia, The Snappy Lunch in Mt. Airy is a true gem. This iconic diner has been serving up classic American fare since 1923, making it a cherished spot that captures the essence of small-town diners.

A cozy, rustic North Carolina restaurant with wooden walls and ceiling, chandeliers, large windows showing greenery outside, and tables set with white cloths, wine glasses, and wooden chairs.

Ryan’s Restaurant – Winston-Salem

Ryan’s Restaurant in Winston-Salem is a culinary gem that combines Southern hospitality with upscale dining. Known for its delectable seafood dishes and creative cocktails, Ryan’s is a perfect choice for a special evening out.

A warmly lit, bustling North Carolina restaurant with high wooden ceilings, diners enjoying meals at tables and the bar, and a cozy fireplace in the center. Servers move between tables as people engage in lively conversation.

The Copper Door – Hayesville

Nestled in the charming town of Hayesville, The Copper Door is a cozy spot offering a diverse menu with a touch of Southern flair. Enjoy a delightful meal in a warm and inviting atmosphere, showcasing the best of local and seasonal ingredients.

A vintage brick theater in North Carolina features a marquee displaying STAY STRONG TARBOO AMERICA UNITED on an empty street under a partly cloudy sky.

On the Square – Tarboro

On the Square in Tarboro is a culinary destination that brings together the charm of a historic setting with a menu highlighting Southern-inspired dishes. Immerse yourself in the town’s history while savoring delicious, locally sourced cuisine.

A red restaurant building in North Carolina with a large wooden sign reading “Amos Mosquito’s Restaurant & Bar” stands by an empty parking lot under a blue sky. The sign also advertises dinner hours and weekly specials.

Amos Mosquito’s – Atlantic Beach

Embrace the laid-back coastal vibe at Amos Mosquito’s in Atlantic Beach. This waterfront eatery offers a diverse menu with a focus on seafood, providing a perfect setting to enjoy a relaxing meal with ocean views.

Two cheeseburgers with lettuce, tomato, cheese, and sauce are placed on a white surface. Crispy fries are blurred in the background. These North Carolina-style burgers feature toasted buns and fresh, juicy ingredients.

Johnson’s Drive In – Siler City

For a classic American drive-in experience, Johnson’s Drive-In in Siler City is a beloved spot. Indulge in timeless favorites like cheeseburgers and shakes in a nostalgic setting that transports you back in time.

A rustic North Carolina riverside restaurant with a green metal roof and wooden exterior sits above a fast-flowing river, surrounded by lush green trees and rocky hillsides under a partly cloudy sky.

River’s End – Bryson City

Situated in Bryson City, River’s End offers a delightful dining experience overlooking the Tuckasegee River. With a menu highlighting regional flavors and outdoor seating, it’s an ideal spot to enjoy a meal amidst nature’s beauty.

A person holds a wooden cutting board with several thick, raw beef steaks arranged in a row, ready for cooking—a perfect scene for a backyard grill in North Carolina.

Beefmastor Inn – Wilson

Beefmastor Inn in Wilson is a local favorite known for its hearty steaks and welcoming ambiance. Step into a cozy, old-school steakhouse setting and savor a perfectly cooked steak paired with classic sides.

A row of North Carolina storefronts with large windows and white trim features potted plants, pumpkins, and autumn decorations along the sidewalk, creating a welcoming small-town atmosphere. A white picket fence is visible on the right.

Spoon River Artworks and Market – Belhaven

Spoon River Artworks and Market in Belhaven is not just a restaurant but a cultural hub. Combining art and cuisine, this spot offers a unique dining experience where you can enjoy locally inspired dishes surrounded by creativity.

Well, folks, we’ve reached the end of our foodie road trip through North Carolina. What did we learn? This state sure knows how to cook up a storm! From classics like Lexington BBQ to the plant-powered wonders at Fiction Kitchen, there’s something for every palate.