North Carolina is renowned for its culinary delights, boasting a vibrant tapestry of flavors across various regions.
From the coastal areas of Eastern Carolina to the scenic mountains in the West, here are 25 must-visit eateries eager to tantalize your taste buds.
Eastern North Carolina Restaurants
There are plenty of interesting places for foodies to visit:
- 1587 in Manteo: This waterfront gem, named after a historical colony, serves delightful fare like beet and goat cheese salad and fresh daily catches;
- Amos Mosquito’s at Atlantic Beach: Near Fort Macon, this eatery offers scenic water views and an eclectic menu featuring Iceberg wedge and Scallop Fantasy rolls;
- Back Porch in Ocracoke: A favorite spot with a splendid porch veranda, offering affordable yet unique seafood dishes like crab beignets and Ahi tuna steak;
- Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe in Nags Head: Serving since 1996, known for crab soup and fried flounder with authentic flavors;
- Beefmastor Inn in Wilson: In Eastern North Carolina, this cozy inn serves a simple menu including baked potatoes and choice steaks;
- Spoon River Artworks & Market in Belhaven: A unique restaurant in a beautifully decorated space, known for local seafood and exquisite homemade desserts;
- Starlight Cafe in Greenville: A cornerstone in Eastern NC, famous for its farm-to-table concept and seasonal dishes in a lovely setting;
- The Table at Inner Banks Inn in Edenton: Situated over water, this place offers a stunning selection of seafood, like crab cakes and gumbo.
Moving on to the most intriguing establishments in Central North Carolina.
Central North Carolina Restaurants
Central North Carolina offers a rich culinary scene with a mix of southern comfort food, international cuisine, and trendy establishments. Here are a few notable restaurants located in the region:
- Crawford & Son in Raleigh: A casual spot in the Oakwood neighborhood, offering exceptional cocktails and delightful desserts;
- Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro: Indulge in a fun dining experience with dishes like cheese donuts, fried olives, and an exquisite burger;
- Lantern in Chapel Hill: In a charming atmosphere, try Clara’s salad, chaat, and BBQ’d pork;
- Oakleaf in Carrboro: Recently moved from Pittsboro, enjoy inventive dishes such as deviled eggs, burrata, and lemon tagliatelle;
- Saltbox Seafood Joint in Durham: A unique seafood spot known for its shrimp hoagie and unmatched hash-honey;
- Second Empire in Raleigh: Offering a variety of dining options, from formal to casual, with dishes like grilled shrimp and goat cheese arancini;
- St. Roch in Raleigh: A lively spot reminiscent of New Orleans, serving unique dishes like oysters with pimento and berbere-seasoned watermelon.
These restaurants are just a glimpse of the diverse culinary offerings in Central North Carolina. Whether you prefer southern comfort food, international flavors, or innovative cuisine, you’re sure to find something intriguing.
Western NC Restaurants
Western North Carolina is a paradise for food lovers! From Asheville to quaint mountain towns, this region offers a diverse array of dining options ranging from rustic farm-to-table eateries to exquisite barbecue joints and high-end restaurants. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- Cúrate in Asheville: Famous for its authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant ambiance;
- Buxton Hall Barbecue in Asheville: Renowned for genuine barbecue and scrumptious Southern dishes;
- The Admiral in Asheville: A trendy spot in a converted gas station building, known for its inventive dishes and signature cocktails;
- Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. in Mills River: Not only offers excellent craft beer but also a fantastic restaurant featuring farm-fresh produce and stunning views;
- White Duck Taco Shop in Asheville: A relaxed venue known for its creative tacos and casual atmosphere;
- Limones in Asheville: A Mexican restaurant emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients;
- Tupelo Honey in Asheville: Offers Southern cuisine with a modern twist, famous for its biscuits and honey;
- 12 Bones Smokehouse in Asheville: A must-visit for barbecue lovers, known for delicious ribs, brisket, and unique sauces;
- Blackbird Restaurant in Asheville: Known for its contemporary American cuisine and elegant setting;
- The Market Place in Asheville: This restaurant offers farm-to-table dishes and inventive meals made from local produce.
These are just a few options among many in the region. Remember, Asheville in particular is a hub of fantastic cuisine with many other great restaurants waiting to be explored!
What Is the Most Famous Food in North Carolina?
North Carolina is renowned for several signature dishes that have become synonymous with the state:
- Barbecue: The culture of barbecue runs deep in North Carolina. The state is known for two distinct styles: Eastern North Carolina barbecue, featuring a vinegar-based sauce often used on whole hog barbecue, and Western North Carolina barbecue, which typically uses a tomato-based sauce and focuses on pork shoulder. Both styles are highly esteemed across the state;
- Biscuits: The South is generally fond of biscuits, but in North Carolina, this breakfast staple is held particularly dear. Fluffy, buttery biscuits are a mainstay, often served with gravy, honey, or as an accompaniment to various dishes;
- Pimento Cheese: This spread, made from cheese, mayonnaise, and pimento peppers, is a Southern favorite snack. It’s commonly used for sandwich spreads or as a dip;
- Sweet Tea: While not exclusive to North Carolina, sweet tea is a staple beverage in the South and is widely popular throughout the state;
- Cheerwine: A cherry-flavored soda that originated in North Carolina and remains a beloved regional non-alcoholic beverage;
- Fried Chicken: Although not unique to North Carolina, the state has its own take on this classic dish, with many local restaurants boasting delicious fried chicken recipes.
These dishes showcase North Carolina’s rich culinary heritage and are often enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.
Conclusion
These 25 restaurants serve merely as gateways to North Carolina’s gastronomic journey. In each, echoes of tradition, innovation, and the vivid essence of the region can be found.
Whether you prefer the coastal flavors of the East, the eclectic dishes of the central part, or the mountain-inspired creations of the West, each restaurant adds its own chapter to the captivating story of North Carolina’s culinary legacy.