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Best Neighborhood Gem Restaurants in Raleigh

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25 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Sullivan's Steakhouse - Raleigh restaurant
1. Sullivan's Steakhouse - Raleigh
4.3
Awesome(5162)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Raleigh
Booked 83 times today
Where the historic Pine State Creamery once stood, you’ll find our Raleigh location, nestled amidst the youthful Glenwood South neighborhood. Packed with the best Raleigh has to offer in shopping, art galleries, and nightlife, this hip thoroughfare is a vein through the heart of downtown. Enjoy Sullivan’s Raleigh’s unique take on upscale steakhouse fare across our expansive menu. Seafood starters abound, from tempura lobster tails to charbroiled oysters. Enjoy a classic iceberg wedge or Caesar salad before moving on to the main event: our cut-above steaks. Served with your choice of sauces, sides, and signature butters, there’s a filet or strip to suit every taste. A night at Sullivan’s Raleigh is about more than just the food—it’s our lively atmosphere that sets us apart. At the intersection of luxury and comfort, Sullivan’s is a bar-centric neighborhood hub. Familiar servers greet you, prepared to recommend dishes and drinks that align with your taste.
A photo of 42nd Street Oyster Bar restaurant
2. 42nd Street Oyster Bar
4.7
Exceptional(5855)
Price: Expensive
• Seafood • Raleigh
A Southern Seafood Tradition Since 1931. The 42nd St. Oyster Bar is one of the South's most famous landmark restaurants, satisfying thousands of grateful patrons since its humble beginnings in 1931 as a grocery store offering oysters and draft beer. Our Mission: To provide a remarkable experience by recognizing and appreciating that each guest is the most important person in the world while dining at the 42nd St. Oyster Bar. We invite you to join us for dinner tonight! “Eat seafood … live longer Eat oysters … love longer Eat clams … last longer"
A photo of Mandolin restaurant
3. Mandolin
4.6
Exceptional(2862)
Price: Moderate
• Southern • Raleigh
Booked 21 times today
Mandolin is a breath of fresh air to the Raleigh dining scene, combining a casual atmosphere with fresh, contemporary, Southern fare. Mandolin uses the highest quality local ingredients to create seasonal menus that resonate with foodies and casual diners, alike. We share our food in a relaxed, cozy atmosphere that replaces the stuffiness of fine-dining with Southern charm. The menu and ambiance reflect the character of Raleigh itself- a blend of rustic and refined, contemporary and traditional, rural and metropolitan. Mandolin, like the City of Oaks, is Southern at its roots, but draws influences from around the world. We love our new home in Hayes Barton, just a stone's throw from Five Points, on the corner of Oberlin and Fairview.
A photo of Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar restaurant
4. Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(3073)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 54 times today
Mulino Italian Kitchen and Bar, a locally owned Italian restaurant that has been named one of Raleigh's best by Raleigh Magazine. Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, minutes from the Raleigh Convention Center, Mulino offers an authentic dining experience that showcases the rich flavors and traditions of Italy. Guests can enjoy classic Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients, perfectly paired with wines from Italy & beyond.Mulino’s inviting atmosphere includes cozy indoor seating & a beautiful outdoor patio, available on a first-come basis. Mulino can accommodate parties from 2 to 250 guests. For groups of 12 or more, a special large-party menu is available to enhance your dining experience.Parking is available at 209 N. Dawson Street, 329 N McDowell Street, and streetwise along Lane Street.We look forward to welcoming you to Mulino Italian Kitchen and Bar, where every meal is crafted with passion and every guest is treated like family.
A photo of Irregardless restaurant
5. Irregardless
4.8
Exceptional(6006)
Price: Moderate
• Farm-to-table • Raleigh
Booked 45 times today
Get ready for a delightful culinary journey at Irregardless! A beloved gem in downtown Raleigh serving fresh, seasonal vegetarian delights + carnivore options. Locally owned and bursting with flavor, our menu promises an unforgettable experience. Join us for lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch! Our menu offers something for everyone.
A photo of Tupelo Honey - Raleigh restaurant
6. Tupelo Honey - Raleigh
4.5
Awesome(3774)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary Southern • Raleigh
Booked 61 times today
Tupelo Honey is a revival of Southern food and traditions rooted in the Carolina Mountains we call home. We craft brunches, lunches and suppers that bring family and friends around the table and allow for conversations and cocktails to linger longer than usual. Always scratch-made, always responsibly-soured, and always Southern.Reservations recommended for weekends.
A photo of Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar restaurant
7. Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
4.8
Exceptional(3839)
Price: Moderate
• Laotian • Raleigh
Booked 33 times today
Bida Manda is a thoughtful gathering place celebrating the diverse food traditions and culture of Laos. The Sanskrit ceremonial term for father and mother, Bida Manda was created out of the deep love and appreciation of food and its power to bring people together.Please be advised that we only seat complete parties. Reservations are highly recommended, however our bar seats are available at a first come first serve basis. Due to high volume, we have a 15 minute grace period, if you are running later than 15 minutes from your reservation time kindly give us a call and we will try our best to accomodate you.Thank you so much for your continued support and we can’t wait to host you soon!
A photo of Gravy restaurant
8. Gravy
4.4
Awesome(3631)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 24 times today
When we say ‘gravy’, we mean tomato sauce. Experience classic Italian-American fare with a contemporary flair in the heart of downtown Raleigh when you dine in our cozy space or our vibrant courtyard. Our culinary artisans craft dishes with the freshest seasonal ingredients so that you can enjoy a rich and authentic taste of Italy, right here in North Carolina. Looking to host an event? Select the link below to learn more about our Wine Cellar, The Upstairs, and Jiddi Space & Courtyard for your next celebration. For parties of six or more, please call the restaurant: 919-896-8513
A photo of ORO restaurant
9. ORO
4.8
Exceptional(2208)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary American • Raleigh
Booked 23 times today
ORO in Raleigh is a local gem. With its creative dishes designed for sharing and an extensive wine, cocktail, and local beer selection, it offers a unique dining experience. Reviewers love the 'ever-changing menu, fantastic staff, and the chance to find new favorites'. The ambiance is often described as 'modern, elegant, and relaxing'. A reviewer even calls it a 'Raleigh gem' with 'excellent food, service, and ambiance'. It's not just the food that gets high praise, but the atmosphere too. It's a place where conversation is easy to flow, and the service is attentive yet not intrusive.
A photo of Cucciolo Terrazza Raleigh restaurant
10. Cucciolo Terrazza Raleigh
4.8
Exceptional(766)
Price: Expensive
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 37 times today
Cucciolo Terrazza, named Best New Restaurant 2022 by Raleigh Magazine, serves simple and delicious Italian food using the highest quality ingredients in an upscale, yet friendly and casual environment. We will always strive to provide the best service possible through genuine care for our Guests.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • OpenTable Diner
    Las Vegas •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We took a party of 8 Naomi was a great server from start to finish. The food was all amazing
    More info
    42nd Street Oyster BarPrice: Expensive• Seafood• Raleigh
    •
    4.7
  • MelanieVIP
    San Diego •25 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Food is prepared well and in an interesting manner. Pricing is expensive.
    More info
    MandolinPrice: Moderate• Southern• Raleigh
    •
    4.6
  • RuthVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •8 reviews
    4.0
    Dined 6 days ago
    Phillip was great! Customer service was outstanding
    More info
    Sullivan's Steakhouse - RaleighPrice: Very Expensive• Steakhouse• Raleigh
    •
    4.3
  • Andrea
    Asheville / Western North Carolina •23 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    This remains one of our most favorite places to have a dinner. We really enjoyed our food and ordered for the first time the Mocktails they were delightful.  Service was wonderful.
    More info
    IrregardlessPrice: Moderate• Farm-to-table• Raleigh
    •
    4.8
  • RogerVIP
    Dallas - Fort Worth •48 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 5, 2025
    What an exceptional spot for any occasion—whether it’s a romantic date night, a business dinner, or simply an evening to indulge. The food quality is outstanding, complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list designed to enhance every dish. The experience is effortlessly elevated by the made-to-order bread—absolute perfection. Pair that with the scallops and their rich, velvety sauce, and you’ve got a meal that’s nothing short of unforgettable. Every bite is a masterful balance of flavor, crafted with care and precision. If you’re looking for a place that truly excites the palate and delivers an unmatched dining experience, look no further.
    More info
    Mulino Italian Kitchen & BarPrice: Moderate• Italian• Raleigh
    •
    4.6

Discover best neighborhood gem restaurants in Raleigh

Discover the charm of Raleigh's hidden culinary treasures with our selection of neighborhood gems in the Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill area. Each restaurant offers a unique ambiance and exceptional dining experience, making them top choices for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're craving contemporary Southern cuisine, fresh seafood, or a taste of Asia, these gems provide a diverse range of flavors and atmospheres that cater to every palate. The dining scene in Raleigh is vibrant and eclectic, characterized by its blend of traditional Southern hospitality and innovative, chef-driven concepts. This ensures a delightful dining experience that combines comfort with a touch of sophistication. These neighborhood gems are praised for their consistent quality, outstanding service, and inviting atmospheres, making them ideal spots for both special occasions and casual dining. Patrons can expect menus that are thoughtfully curated with fresh, local ingredients and dishes that are crafted to perfection. From intimate settings for a romantic dinner to lively spots perfect for a group gathering, each restaurant embodies the spirit of Raleigh's community-centric dining culture. Explore these neighborhood gems for a true taste of Raleigh's hospitality and culinary excellence.

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