The best restaurants in Cumberland County

This week, sneak downtown for Bees & Boards Restaurant + Provision Company, where southern hospitality meets a playful menu. Grilled Peach French Toast, Shrimp & Grits, a legit Crab Cake Sandwich and the Duck + Waffle make lunch feel like brunch, brunch feel like a victory lap.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 28, 2026

Since 1986, Fuller’s Old Fashioned BBQ has been pit-cooking low and slow, turning out tender, smoky meats that taste like someone’s uncle has been tending the coals all morning.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 26, 2026

Whether you’re chasing oyster shooters at the brightly lit bar or craving a pile of steamed and fried fish, 316 Oyster Bar delivers the local seafood fix without the fuss. Swing by with friends, claim a bar stool, maybe even book a party if the squad multiplies.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 10, 2026

Casual restaurant & sports bar with multiple outposts for pub fare, a long beer list & kids' menu.

Charbroiled burgers star at this fast-food chain also offering deli-type sandwiches, salads & fries.

Casual chain featuring BBQ & classic sides, plus memorabilia honoring soldiers & first responders.

Whether you’re craving a foldable slice or twirl worthy pasta, Elizabeth's Pizza & Restaurant keeps it classic with hand tossed New York style pies, made from scratch sauces, hearty sandwiches, and seasonal local touches, all from a friends and family crew with Italian roots.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 6, 2026

Grilled Ginger Vietnamese Restaurant nails the classics, from fragrant pho and spicy Bun Bo Hue to vermicelli bowls with grilled pork and egg rolls, plus bubble teas for the cool-down. Keep it simple this week and let their best-sellers do the deciding.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 18, 2026

Nona Sushi does artful rolls like Black Dragon, Fantasy, and Surf and Turf, plus hibachi that brings the sizzle with high quality meats, fresh veggies, and savory rice. It’s a relaxed, intimate spot with cocktails and beer, perfect for a weeknight upgrade or an easy celebratory dinner.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 2, 2026

Chain dishing up wings, tenders & burgers, plus sauces ranging from sweet to very spicy.

Rainbow Restaurant has been feeding Fayetteville since 1938 with made-from-scratch pancakes, fresh veggies, and char-grilled ribeye that tastes like Sunday at grandma’s. They also handle catering and have a private room when your crew outgrows the kitchen table.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 20, 2026

When your week needs a hug, Sammio's Italian Restaurant delivers with signature pasta dishes, quick lunch sandwiches, and a fully stocked bar perfect for catching up. Catering has you covered for everything from office lunches to birthday spreads, so you can just enjoy.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 9, 2026

Southern Coals Restaurant nails the essentials with smoked pulled pork, brisket, ribs, and wings plus the kind of country sides and banana pudding that make you plan a nap. When you need easy, crowd-pleasing barbecue, their catering game covers weddings, office lunches, and any excuse to feed a bunch.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 9, 2026

Level 88 brings Fayetteville folks together with classic Southern plates in a lively yet refined setting. Think Cajun Shrimp & Grits, Catfish & Grits, and weekend oxtails alongside signature drinks, brunch events, and an inviting private space for celebrations... basically where date night and group hangs both win.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 3, 2026

Casual cafe serving biscuit sandwiches & Southern sides for breakfast & lunch.

Casual, fast-food-style eatery serving burgers, fries, shakes and salads, with sauces for dipping.

Since 1983, Pizza Palace Italian Restaurant has been the Fayetteville go-to for made-to-order pies, twirl-worthy spaghetti, hearty subs, and those surprisingly great dinner specials you tell yourself you’ll split then don’t. Bring your appetite and a friend, then make it your easy dinner win this week.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 4, 2026

Put this on your rotation this week because Taco Arepa Food Truck is cranking out tacos, quesadillas, burritos, arepas, grilled enchiladas, gorditas, birria with consome, and nachos, all made with fresh ingredients. Order online to skip the line and get back to life well fed.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 3, 2026

When Ty's Uptown Grill rolls through Fayetteville, claim your bodega fix: Jersey Chopped Cheese, loaded disco fries, Nuyorican empanadas, even a Bronx Tale flank-steak hero, all made to order. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or to level up your next backyard shindig.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 12, 2026

301 Wingz keeps it simple and delicious with crispy wings, juicy burgers, and brews, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, in a laid back spot locals treat like the living room on game day. Sauces hit every mood, ordering is painless, and the vibe celebrates good food, good company, and the next big play.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 4, 2026

Uptown's Chicken and Waffles nails the crispy chicken and fluffy waffle combo with sweet add-ons, Sassy Wings, and 'Boom Boom Boom' fried shrimp. Sides taste like home, from collard greens with smoked turkey to mac & cheese and candied yams, plus Fayetteville's Fried Pickle Spears and crowd-pleasing catering.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 4, 2026

Popular delivery, carry-out & dine-in chain known for pizza, wings & pasta, plus sides & desserts.

Down-to-earth chain offering American standards like burgers & ribs, plus signature cocktails.

Family-run and proudly Fayetteville, Little Italy Pizzeria and Restaurant nails the comforting trifecta... foldable pizzas (yes, stuffed pies too), saucy subs, and big twirlable pastas, with a legit beer and wine list to match. Fresh ingredients, cooked the way you asked, makes it an easy weeknight go-to.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 5, 2026

Local restaurant & bar chain serving BBQ, burgers, wings, Southern fare & more, plus numerous beers.

Lively chain steakhouse serving American fare with a Southwestern spin amid Texas-themed decor.

Fuller's Old Fashion BBQ has been mastering pit-cooked, slow-smoked meats since 1986, and you can taste it in every tender bite. Check it out this week for classic barbecue and a hearty buffet stacked with veggies, chicken, steak, seafood, a salad bar, and homemade desserts that test your willpower.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 2, 2026

When your morning mood swings between fluffy stacks and golden grids, Pancakes & Waffles hits the sweet spot around Lumberton, with omelets that don’t skimp and easygoing vibes. They roll into lunch too, so your midday cravings can tag along.

From the Lumberton newsletter, October 4, 2026

Super Wing Station nails the crave combo of crispy wings in plenty of flavors, hibachi plates, and other Asian comfort favorites. It’s the kind of spot you hit when you want real-deal flavor, friendly vibes, and the game on TV without overthinking dinner.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 2, 2026

If you’re craving flaming hibachi theatrics and sushi that’s rolled to order, Shogun Japanese Restaurant brings the show to your table with quality steak, poultry, and seafood, plus a bar pouring mixed drinks and Japanese beer. It’s the kind of weeknight upgrade Fayetteville deserves.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 7, 2026

Casual counter-serve chain serving a variety of chicken wings & sides.

Boisterous Australian-themed chain serving steaks, seafood & other hearty steakhouse fare.

Chain eatery & bar serving a diverse menu of classic Italian fare in a family-friendly setting.

Whether you’re plotting an easy weeknight dinner or rallying the crew, Mellow Mushroom Fayetteville fires up creative stone-baked pies on fresh, flavor-packed dough, plus munchies, greens, calzones, and burgers. Craft beer and tasty cocktails keep things lively, and gluten-free or vegan options mean everyone’s happy.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 1, 2026

Chris's Steak & Seafood House has been a Fayetteville staple for over 50 years, serving hand-cut steaks and fresh-caught Atlantic seafood with an extensive wine collection to match. Settle in, sip a hand-crafted cocktail or local beer, and consider their private dining when the crew or company needs celebrating.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 14, 2026

Fast-food chain doling out baked pastas, subs, pizza & other casual Italian fare plus custom combos.

Rudino's Pizza and Grinders brings the sports bar energy with big screen TVs, live music and an outside patio, plus hot pies and hefty grinders that actually hit the spot. Rally the crew this week, catch a game, and let someone else handle dinner for once.

From the Lumberton newsletter, September 29, 2026

Gusto Napoletano Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria is that casual, family-friendly spot doing authentic, wood-fired Neapolitan pies with airy edges and a little char.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 3, 2026

Counter-serve chain serving fried chicken & Eastern North Carolina-style BBQ in vinegar-based sauce.

Capri Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria keeps it classic with pizzas, strombolis, hearty pasta, and the baked specialties that make leftovers a myth. When you want comfort without fuss, this spot brings big neighborhood energy, from shareable appetizers to desserts that end arguments.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 12, 2026

Chain eatery specializing in burgers, plus shakes, wings and beer, in casual, family-friendly digs.

Bounty Farmhouse Kitchen & Tap turns local harvest into legit comfort, with an on-site brewery and a kitchen pulling from its own farm and butcher shop. Think Piedmont Poutine, The Bee's Knees Burger, or Blueberry Short Rib, plus seasonal cocktails and mocktails that taste like North Carolina.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 5, 2026

Luigi's Italian Chophouse and Bar is that Fayetteville standby locals lean on for homemade sauces, pan-sautéed pastas, hand-cut Black Angus steaks and chops, and fresh fish daily, backed by an award-winning wine list with 300-plus selections.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 25, 2026

If your week needs fresh rolls and a little hibachi sizzle, Nona Sushi Asia delivers with craveable sushi, hibachi, and other Japanese fare. Solid spot for date night, family catch-ups, or a post-practice fuel-up... and when you’re staying in, their online order pickup keeps things deliciously low effort.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 19, 2026

When you want reliable comfort without overthinking dinner, Dino's Pizza nails it with specialty pies, loaded subs, and legit hot wings. Dough and sauce made daily, prices that feel fair, and on-time delivery have kept North Cumberland County snacking for over 20 years.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 4, 2026

Craving wings without the wait? Wing Co. Express - Downtown Fayetteville keeps it moving with super easy online ordering, tasty specials, and flexible catering for birthdays and office lunches.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 18, 2026

When the what’s-for-dinner debate needs a hero, Umami answers with unique sushi rolls, slurpable ramen, and comforting Japanese kitchen entrées, plus bento boxes for when you want a little of everything. Cozy vibe, big flavor, zero regrets... treat yourself this week.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 27, 2026

Family owned since 2002, Pierro's Italian Bistro nails the Fayetteville sweet spot of classic Italian comfort, a legit wine list, and a warm brick-and-travertine vibe you can actually relax in. Nab a patio table, order your favorite pasta or a Neapolitan-style pie, and settle in.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 12, 2026

If this week needs a reliable pick-me-up, Gaston Brewing Restaurant hits the sweet spot with locally brewed beers, easygoing cocktails, and the kind of comfort food that actually comforts. Veteran-owned and family-friendly, it’s the laid-back spot locals lean on when flavor and good company are the only priorities.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 16, 2026

Burgers, pizza & beer served alongside many large-screen TVs showing sports & music videos.

Bar-B-Que Hut has been feeding Fayetteville since 1965 with in-house sliced barbecue, crispy fried chicken, and fish. Pair a saucy sandwich with fried okra this week and see why it keeps winning hometown love, the kind that sticks to your ribs in the best way.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 10, 2026

Downtown spot Circa 1800 leans into seasonal ingredients and Southern tradition, turning familiar plates into something you catch yourself thinking about later. Swing by for lunch, dinner, or brunch and a handcrafted cocktail, then brag you found a place that treats Fayetteville flavors with real care.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 21, 2026

Bar-B-Que Hut has been serving Fayetteville since 1965 with NC-style barbecue, crispy fried chicken, and fish that tastes like Friday even on a Tuesday. It’s locally owned, a many-time Reader’s Choice favorite, and clutch when you want real smoke flavor without leaving your car.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 5, 2026

Archway Burgers, Dogs, And Beer nails the quick-lunch sweet spot with customizable burgers and hot dogs, crisp fries, and craft beer that actually pairs well with their beer-infused patties, beer onions, and house chili. Great for a post-game bite or an easy office catering win.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 19, 2026

MaryBill’s Cafe is a casual spot serving breakfast and lunch, including a crabcake benedict that actually lives up to the hype and legit corned beef hash. Perfect for post-gym mornings, quick catch-ups, or when you just want a solid plate without the fuss.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 3, 2026

Desde Mi Balcón Restaurant is serving legit Puerto Rican cravings like empanadillas, alcapurrias, tostones rellenos and the Mi Balcón jibarito plantain sandwich. Cap it with a coconut or coffee flan and call this week officially improved.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 11, 2026

When the backyard grill feels like a chore, Millerboyz BBQ steps in with brisket that means business, rib tips that vanish fast, and turkey wings plus loaded potatoes that hit like a meal and a hug in one. A reliable spot for Fayetteville smoke cravings.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 1, 2026

Whether the group chat needs a last-minute feast or you just want something saucy, The Wing Company Hope Mills has flavorful wings, easy online ordering, and catering for game days and birthdays. Grab the crew and reserve a table, or let them bring the party to you.

From the Lumberton newsletter, October 1, 2026

Cafe chain for health-minded breakfast, brunch & lunch options such as omelets, salads & soups.

Family-friendly chain restaurant featuring Italian entrees along with a wide beer selection.

Local diner chain serving classic American breakfast & lunch fare in a warm atmosphere.

Backed by over 80 years of pizza know-how, Brooklyn Pizzeria turns out true Brooklyn-style pies using superior Italian ingredients. Make it your easy win this week by grabbing a slice for lunch or a box for movie night, and don’t forget the garlic knots that mysteriously vanish before the first slice is gone.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, October 17, 2026

Antonella's Italian Ristorante leans upscale without being stuffy, serving traditional Italian favorites alongside seafood and vegan options, plus craft cocktails that make lingering at the table a sport. A reliable pick when you want comfort food done right and a place that feels special without trying too hard.

From the Fayetteville newsletter, September 10, 2026