Restaurants and Bars

Those unfamiliar with the dining scene in the Raleigh-Durham area are in for a treat. Looking for a fine dining experience at a nationally recognized, award-winning restaurant? No problem. Have a hankering for some good old-fashioned home cooking or want to try traditional southern soul food? You got it. Longing for a taste of European, Asian or Indian cuisine? You will find it all here.

Raleigh/Inside the Beltline

If you've come here determined to sample the local fare, start with breakfast at Big Ed's in downtown Raleigh's City Market. Yummy biscuits smothered in sausage gravy or a breakfast platter of grits and eggs will fuel you for an entire day of work or play. Enjoy a new twist on old Chinese at Five Star, where the dance floor fills up at night. At Tír na nÓg, or "Land of Eternal Youth," you'll find hearty Irish meat and potato style dishes. The restaurant with a funny name, Bojangles', specializes in bringing Cajun-style comfort food to Raleigh. The contemporary American cuisine at Frazier's is both elegant and eclectic.

Durham

The delicious barbecue and crisp hushpuppies flavored with onion at Bullock's Barbeque in Durham will bring even die-hard nouvelle cuisine lovers back looking for more. Nana's and Magnolia Grill are great options for romantic dinners. Five Star is a chic warehouse style eatery that serves up superior Chinese fare in an uptown setting. There are no greasy egg rolls here; expect fresh-tasting, crisp vegetables and tender meats in delicious Oriental sauces accented with authentic Far-East spices. Fairview is a cozy place to enjoy your evening. With a rustic interior and many savory options on the menu, it is a mainstay in Durham. Taverna Nikos offers flavors from the Mediterranean, with classic dishes like Spanikopita and Lamb Kebabs.

Chapel Hill

Il Palio Ristorante, in Chapel Hill, is a great choice for intimacy and romance; its beautiful decor, magnificent Italian dishes and superior wines sooth the soul. Pasta, seafood and meats are given the star treatment and the desserts are worth waiting for. Carolina CrossRoads Restaurant & Bar is a popular spots for fine dining. Enjoy your meal with some live music on the deck at Top of the Hill. A popular late-night option is the Spotted Dog, which has a variety of homemade dishes available. Stock up on all the Mexican you need at Cosmic Cantina, where traditional fare like burritos and quesadillas are served with cold glasses of sangria.