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Best Restaurants that are Worth The Drive in Raleigh

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20 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tamasha Modern Indian restaurant
1. Tamasha Modern Indian
4.7
Exceptional(529)
Price: Very Expensive
• Indian • Raleigh
Booked 27 times today
Experience the epitome of sophisticated Indian cuisine at Tamasha Modern Indian, nestled in Raleigh's dynamic North Hills. This culinary gem, owned by the discerning Mike Kathrani and the visionary Tina Vora, offers an extraordinary dining experience in an ambiance crafted with elegance by Tina herself. Tamasha's opulent design has earned it a place among the “50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America” by OpenTable and People Magazine, a prestigious accolade that marks it as North Carolina's sole honoree. Executive Chef Bhavin Chhatwani’s pedigree from India’s most prestigious properties to Michelin-starred restaurants stateside – is unmistakable. Tamasha showcases the depth and artistry of Indian cuisine – from show-stopping cocktails and a well-curated wine list, to Chhatwani’s refined menu of artful shared and composed dishes. Guests will discover exceptional hospitality on this inspired Indian culinary journey whether dining in the main dining room, private room or at the chic bar.
A photo of Element Gastropub restaurant
2. Element Gastropub
4.6
Exceptional(420)
Price: Moderate
• Vegan • Raleigh
Booked 9 times today
## Element Gastropub: Where Plant-Based Meets Flavorful Step into Element Gastropub, a haven for both vegans and omnivores alike, and discover a world of culinary creativity. Nestled in the heart of Raleigh, this trendy spot offers a vibrant atmosphere and a menu bursting with innovative, plant-based dishes that tantalize your taste buds. **A Feast for the Senses:** From the moment you walk in, Element Gastropub's modern industrial-chic decor sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. The warm and inviting ambiance, coupled with the friendly staff, creates a space where you can relax and savor the moment. **A Culinary Symphony:** Prepare to embark on a culinary journey with Element's signature dishes. Indulge in the "Elemental Chik'n n Waffles," a Southern classic reinvented with a crispy Belgian cornbread waffle and double-dipped fried chickun. Or, savor the "Steak au Poivre," a succulent peppercorn-crusted "steak" served with cognac cream and roasted garlic potato-cauli mash. **Beyond the Plate:** Element Gastropub's commitment to excellence extends beyond the food. Their extensive selection of craft beers, curated wine list, and handcrafted cocktails
A photo of Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar restaurant
3. Bida Manda Restaurant and Bar
4.8
Exceptional(3839)
Price: Moderate
• Laotian • Raleigh
Booked 49 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 The Capital Grille - Raleigh restaurant
4. The Capital Grille - Raleigh
4.8
Exceptional(2709)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Raleigh
Booked 76 times today
Make it a day to remember. From birthdays and anniversaries to professional milestones, we aim to make every gathering special at The Capital Grille. Open seven days a week, The Capital Grille is best known for our expertly prepared steaks, which are dry aged in house for 18 to 24 days and then hand-cut by our restaurant's on-premise butcher. The Capital Grille's wine list features more than 350 selections, and its floor-to-ceiling wine kiosk regularly houses 3,500 - 5,000 bottles. Reservations are recommended but not required. For more information, please visit our website. We look forward to delighting you.
A photo of The Pit Authentic BBQ restaurant
5. The Pit Authentic BBQ
4.3
Awesome(5743)
Price: Moderate
• Regional American (Southern) • Raleigh
Booked 37 times today
Servin’ everything but the squeal! The Pit Authentic Barbecue is home to world-famous tangy Eastern NC whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue. Located in the Warehouse District, we source premium AWA-certified hogs to cook low and slow for twelve hours. All of our spirits have been handpicked to enhance the smoked and sometimes spicy fare cooked off the pit, from beer to bourbon.Last but not least, we serve up a good time at unique private dining events. Our contemporary setting in a restored 1930s meatpacking warehouse is the perfect spot for rehearsal dinners, birthdays, and more. Check out the link below for details!
A photo of East End Bistrot Raleigh restaurant
6. East End Bistrot Raleigh
4.8
Exceptional(300)
Price: Very Expensive
• Steakhouse • Raleigh
Booked 13 times today
East End Bistrot Raleigh is totally worth the drive. Reviewers are consistently impressed by the quality of the food and the top-notch service. The ambiance is frequently described as beautiful and the dishes are consistently prepared with care and to perfection. One review even mentioned that the restaurant provides a high-end dining experience that is well worth the price.
A photo of Sitti restaurant
7. Sitti
4.7
Exceptional(3323)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Raleigh
Booked 21 times today
Honoring Lebanese tradition through authentic cuisine. Sitti is a heartfelt tribute to the grandmothers, or sittis, the revered guardians of Lebanese culture, faith, and culinary heritage. Nestled in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Sitti breathes life into the rich traditions of Lebanon, honoring our ancestors by offering guests an unforgettable experience filled with mouthwatering dishes and exceptional hospitality.If you seek an outdoor escape, we offer seating in our courtyard. This space is also available for Private Dining experiences.
A photo of Bella Monica restaurant
8. Bella Monica
4.7
Exceptional(3665)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 35 times today
Bella Monica – A Beloved Italian Trattoria in RaleighSince 2000, Bella Monica has been a neighborhood gem, serving authentic Neapolitan cuisine with warm hospitality. Owned by Chef Corbett and Julie Monica, our locally owned trattoria is an extension of Nana’s table, where guests become family.Our menu features thin-crust flatbreads, housemade pastas, fresh NC seafood, and locally sourced meats, crafted with San Marzano tomatoes and the freshest ingredients. Pair your meal with a selection from our all-Italian, Wine Spectator 2007-2025 award-winning wine list, and don’t leave without trying the best cannoli in Raleigh!Recognized with Diners’ Choice Awards for being charming, intimate, and perfect for special occasions, Bella Monica is where Raleigh gathers to enjoy great food, local art, and a lively atmosphere. Mangia bene!
A photo of Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar - Raleigh restaurant
9. Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar - Raleigh
4.8
Exceptional(435)
Price: Moderate
• Indian • Raleigh
Booked 12 times today
Rated as the # 1 Indian Restaurant in Triangle, Lime & Lemon Indian Grill offers an immersive dining experience with exquisite dishes that will take you on a journey through India's many regions, traditions and festivals. We meticulously curate using only the best ingredients to create dishes that are authentic, unsurpassed, and timeless. All this in an ultra-modern setting to ensure your dining affair is nothing short of perfect. Featured in the October 2019 edition of News & Observer and received a 4 out of 5 star rating. It has been consistently voted as one of the Top 10 Ethnic restaurants and has also been recognized as the Best Indian Restaurant in the Triangle for 2019, 2020 and 2021.
A photo of Station At Person Street restaurant
10. Station At Person Street
3.6
Very Good(88)
Price: Moderate
• American • Raleigh
A corner bar and restaurant nestled on the edge of Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood neighborhood, blending amongst the residential streets like a refuge. In the location that originally served as an Amoco gas station- The Station pays tribute to Raleigh’s rich past as well as present.A cozy, rustic, watering-hole inviting you to hobnob and toast one another over a bucket of suds, a locally crafted brew or an artisinal cocktail. Creative, insightful takes on classic dishes that have been hand-crafted to set the tone for comfort. A place to linger. This is The Station. Welcome home, neighbor. The Station offers a “third space” that is uniquely Raleigh. Spacious outdoor and indoor dining areas, adorned with wood and metal, offer a range of accommodations for our friends.

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Discover best worth the drive restaurants in Raleigh

Discover the culinary gems of Raleigh, Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill that are truly "worth the drive." This selection showcases restaurants that stand out for their exceptional food, superior service, and inviting ambiance. Each venue offers a unique dining experience, highlighting everything from wood-fired grills to fresh, seasonal menus, and authentic Italian cuisine. The common thread among these establishments is their commitment to quality and a memorable dining experience, ensuring every visit is special. Raleigh itself is renowned for a vibrant dining scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences, making it a prime destination for food enthusiasts. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, Italian, or a bistro-style meal, these restaurants promise an enjoyable outing with consistently great reviews. Ideal for both special occasions and casual outings, each restaurant listed is a testament to the rich culinary culture of the Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill area.

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