The Triangle Guide: The best restaurants in Raleigh, Durham, & Chapel Hill

We asked our readers to tell us their favorite Triangle restaurants. Here’s what they said.

Are you looking for the best restaurants in the North Carolina Triangle area? Look no further than Cardinal & Pine’s guide to the top dining spots in Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Our readers have spoken, and they have chosen the following establishments as the cream of the crop when it comes to dining experiences. Join us on a culinary journey through the Triangle’s finest eateries!

The Best Restaurant in Raleigh: Stanbury

938 N Blount St

Nestled on North Blount Street, Stanbury emerges as a beacon for those seeking an extraordinary dining experience. This culinary gem has captured the hearts of Cardinal & Pine readers with its bold flavors and innovative approach to cuisine. At Stanbury, the philosophy is simple yet profound: to offer an ever-evolving menu that celebrates the richness of locally sourced ingredients. The menu changes daily to accommodate what’s available from local farms. This commitment ensures that each visit presents a new adventure, with dishes that tell a story of the season and the region.

The ambiance at Stanbury strikes the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, making it an ideal spot for both intimate dinners and joyful celebrations. It’s a place that honors the art of food, and makes the dining room a stage for showcasing the chef’s creativity. The creative menu features a dazzling array of appetizers, mains, and desserts that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

But what sets Stanbury apart is the palpable passion that infuses every aspect of the dining experience. From the kitchen to the table, the team at Stanbury is dedicated to exceeding the expectations of their guests. This dedication is evident in the meticulous attention to detail found in each dish and the warm, attentive service that welcomes you the moment you step through the door.

As a cornerstone of Raleigh’s culinary scene, Stanbury not only satisfies hunger but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the art of dining. It’s a place where every meal becomes a memorable occasion, and every visit feels like a return to somewhere special.

The Best Restaurant in Durham: Saltbox Seafood Joint

2637 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd

Saltbox Seafood has reeled in a devoted following with its oceanic delights, cementing its reputation as the Triangle’s seafood sensation. With a philosophy anchored in showcasing the freshest catches, Saltbox Seafood is a treasure trove for those who dream in shades of ocean blue. Its unpretentious setting belies the culinary wizardry at play, where simple ingredients are transformed into dishes brimming with bold flavors and inventive twists.

The menu at Saltbox Seafood is a vibrant ode to the sea’s bounty, featuring daily catches that promise an ever-changing culinary voyage. Like Stanbury, the menu changes daily here, but you’re always in good hands with the Saltbox crew. From succulent shrimp to perfectly flaky fish, each dish is a masterpiece of seasoning and technique, served with a side of genuine hospitality that makes you feel right at home. And let’s not forget the Hush-Honeys, a sweet play on hushpuppies. These golden, crispy delights have earned their own fan base, offering a delicious contrast to the seafood’s freshness.

Chef Ricky Moore, the James Beard Award-winning visionary behind Saltbox Seafood, draws inspiration from coastal regions around the world, infusing his creations with a global flair that’s both exciting and comforting. It’s this unique blend of local catch and international flavors that makes dining at Saltbox Seafood a journey worth taking time and again.

With every visit, diners can expect an experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of sea-to-table dining. Saltbox Seafood nourishes the soul with each dish, making it a beloved landmark in Durham’s culinary landscape.

The Best Restaurant in Chapel Hill: Hawthorne & Wood

3140 Environ Way

Hawthorne & Wood is a beacon of fine dining, captivating both locals and visitors with its sophisticated charm and culinary excellence. This esteemed establishment has mastered the delicate balance of offering an upscale dining experience while maintaining an atmosphere of warmth and inclusiveness. At Hawthorne & Wood, the menu is a celebration of modern American cuisine, thoughtfully prepared with the finest seasonal ingredients. Each dish is a testament to the chefs’ creativity and dedication, aiming to transcend traditional dining expectations.

Chef Brandon Sharp, who has cooked across the globe and earned a Michelin star while working in Napa Valley, curates a dazzling dinner here. From the Potato Gnocchi to the Pan-Seared Beef Tenderloin, each dish is both decadent and immaculate.

What sets Hawthorne & Wood apart is its remarkable ability to create a seamless dining journey. The extensive wine list is arranged with an expert eye, ensuring a perfect pairing for every palate and dish, enhancing the flavors and elevating the overall experience. The staff’s attentive and knowledgeable service further contributes to the restaurant’s distinguished reputation, making every visit a memorable one.

Hawthorne & Wood is a place where the ambiance, from the elegant decor to the soft lighting, complements the innovative menu, creating an environment where every meal feels like a special occasion. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a celebratory gathering, Hawthorne & Wood stands as Chapel Hill’s fine dining favorite, promising an experience that’s both exquisite and uniquely welcoming.

More Great Restaurants Across the Triangle:

• Angus Barn (Raleigh)
• Caffe Luna (Raleigh)
• Crawford & Son (Raleigh)
• Death and Taxes (Raleigh)
• Fearrington House Restaurant (Pittsboro)
• Fiction Kitchen (Raleigh)
• Irregardless (Raleigh)
• SAAP (Cary)
• Second Empire (Raleigh)

READ MORE: The Triangle BBQ Bucket List