North Carolina is a southeastern state offering extraordinary geographic diversity — from the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains in the west, to the rolling Piedmont Plateau in the center, to the iconic Outer Banks barrier islands and warm Atlantic beaches in the east. Home to nearly 11 million residents, the state blends Southern hospitality, world-class barbecue, vibrant college-town culture, outdoor adventure, and a deep historical heritage stretching from the Wright Brothers' first flight to Civil War battlefields.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Curate
Popular Spanish Tapas restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: Authentic Spanish tapas and charcuterie
11 Biltmore Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Poole's Diner
Popular New American / Comfort Food restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: Rotating seasonal comfort food; mac and cheese
426 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Kindred
Popular New American / Farm-to-Table restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: James Beard Award-winning seasonal tasting menu
131 N Main St, Davidson, NC 28036
Lexington Barbecue
Popular BBQ (Lexington-Style) restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: Pork shoulder slow-smoked over hickory since 1962
100 Smokehouse Ln, Lexington, NC 27295
Lantern
Popular Asian Fusion / Farm-to-Table restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine with local NC ingredients
423 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Death & Taxes
Popular Wood-fired Southern American restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: Wood-fire cooking — meats, vegetables, and bread
105 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Buxton Hall Barbecue
Popular BBQ (Eastern North Carolina style) restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: Whole-hog NC BBQ and smoked meats in a converted roller rink
32 Banks Ave, Asheville, NC 28801
Bida Manda
Popular Lao / Southeast Asian restaurant in North Carolina.
Known for: Authentic Lao cuisine — one of few in the southeastern US
222 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Fusion
Brunch
Eastern Nc Bbq
Lao
Mediterranean
New Southern
Southern Fried Chicken
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
Tipping practices vary — check local customs. Service charge is often included.
Restaurants may close between lunch and dinner. Plan meals around local dining hours.
Popular restaurants may not take reservations — arrive early or be prepared to wait.
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |