$$$$
Southern breakfastDowntown
At the City Market since 1989, Big Ed's serves scratch-made biscuits, country ham, grits, and eggs. The antique-laden room is deliberately unchanged.
SignatureScratch biscuits, Country ham and eggs, Grits
$$$$
Southeast AsianGlenwood South
All-day cafe in Glenwood South serving Southeast Asian-inspired dishes, specialty coffee, and craft cocktails. Dinner reservations available.
SignatureSoutheast Asian-spiced plates, Specialty coffee
$$$$
Contemporary AmericanDowntown
Christensen's flagship since 2007 runs a rotating blackboard menu driven by the farm network. The macaroni au gratin is a Raleigh institution.
SignatureMacaroni au gratin, Roasted half chicken
$$$$
Wood-fire AmericanDowntown
Every dish passes through fire or smoke from the wood-burning hearth: NC fish, roasted meats, and vegetables that reward the char. Top-ranked in Raleigh.
SignatureWood-roasted oysters, NC fish on fire
$$$$
Asian fusionDowntown
A Belgian-inspired brewery, dim sum kitchen, bookshop, and flower shop under one roof on South Blount Street. Michelin Guide recommended and one of its kind.
SignatureDim sum, Belgian farmhouse ales
$$$$
LaotianDowntown
Raleigh's defining Laotian restaurant, drawing on Lao, Thai, Vietnamese, and French traditions. Michelin Guide recommended; sister to Brewery Bhavana.
SignatureLarb, Papaya salad, Slow-braised meats