The best restaurants in Durham

“When the craving hits, Pho Happiness has you covered with comforting bowls of noodles and flavorful grilled plates that taste like a weekday win. Grab a cozy table or order takeout, then let a hot, slurpable bowl reset your mood and your evening.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Cosmic Cantina keeps Chapel Hill fed with casual, no-fuss Mexican favorites, specializing in burritos and nachos. They even back it up with a bold "best burritos on the planet" claim, plus easy online ordering and catering if you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Rougarou (Imbibe) brings a little Crescent City to Chapel Hill with an ever changing Cajun menu, fine wine, and rotating local beers and ciders. Swing by for dinner, jazz, and drinks, or tap them for catering and parties when you want your get together to actually be fun.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Whether you’re team classic or crave weirdly perfect combos, Alfredo's Pizza & Brew nails it with pies like the Michelangelo dripping in hot honey and the Carolina BBQ, plus legit red-sauce standbys. Garlic knots are the move, and their toasted Meatball Parmesan Sub rescues any long day.”

“Fresh pastas, wood-fired pizzas & other Italian staples, plus beer & wine galore, in a cozy space.”

“Independent and family-owned, Coco Bistro & Bar serves up familiar, refreshingly plant-based dishes with plenty of allergy-friendly and gluten-free options, plus espresso, cocktails, and beer. It’s the kind to the planet spot for morning lattes, weeknight catchups, and letting them cater or host your next get-together.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Spicy 9 Sushi Bar & Asian Restaurant packs a massive Asian-fusion lineup, from pristine raw bites to fully cooked comfort, with sake and cocktails to match. Easy pickup or delivery when you’re busy, plus catering and benefit nights when you’re planning something bigger.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 5, 2026

“When you need a midweek pick-me-up, Monterrey Mexican Restaurant shakes up hand-crafted margaritas with fresh fruit and premium tequila to go with serious comfort food like the Burrito Monterrey, carne asada fries, and a citrusy cantarito. Chapel Hill standby energy, instant good mood.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, August 30, 2026

“Between specialty pies, legit gluten-free crusts, veggie-friendly combos, and classic wings-salads-subs, Brenz Pizza Co. Chapel Hill nails the order-for-everyone dilemma.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Since 2004, OiShii has been Chapel Hill’s go-to Japanese restaurant and sushi bar for fresh rolls, teriyaki, and other dependable classics. It’s a simple setup that nails the basics, ideal for an easy weeknight takeout run or a relaxed sit-down when you want good fish and rice to do the talking.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Kurama Sushi & Noodle Express has that kaiten magic, with fresh rolls looping past while you grab made-to-order nigiri, sashimi, and specialty rolls. When you want something slurpable, their udon, ramen, and soba hit the spot... a Chapel Hill staple for over 20 years.”

“Family-run counter-serve pizza shop for hand-tossed pies & other Italian eats, plus sports on TV.”

“Whether it's pizza night or you need a break from cooking, Magone Italian Grill & Pizza nails the Neapolitan-style pies and hearty Italian mains, from Caprese Salad and Linguine Pescatore to calzones and stromboli, plus wine and beer. Gluten free thin crust and catering make weeknight planning painless.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Alpha Pie is flying the flag for the North Carolina slice, slinging 30-inch pies cut into triangles bigger than your head on Rosemary. Hand-rolled dough with Red Tail Grains flour, Bacio cheese, cupping pepperoni, and a Blue Sky Farms veggie special make it a clutch late-night go-to.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Bombolo keeps Chapel Hill guessing with Italian-leaning dishes that shift often, hand-rolled pasta made each morning, cured and fermented touches, a tidy list of wines and cocktails, plus desserts from award-winning pastry chef Eleanor Lacy... and yes, Eater called it North Carolina’s Restaurant of the Year.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Kipos Greek Taverna brings a festive, elegant vibe to Chapel Hill with upscale Greek cuisine plus pastries from their bakery. Ideal for date night or a long catch‑up, when you want polished food that still feels fun... and a dessert you’ll actually remember.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Part of a chain featuring pizza from a wood-fired brick oven, plus sandwiches & craft beers.”

“Osteria Georgi does the cozy-upscale Italian thing locals crave, with rich lasagna, classic tiramisu, and cocktails that actually respect the glass. It leans into that sprezzatura vibe, so the food feels effortless and honest... which is exactly how your evening should taste.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Thin-crust & deep-dish pizzas plus an array of Italian comfort food in a bright, casual eatery.”

“Local favorite since 1986, Squid's Restaurant turns out super fresh wood-grilled fillets, live Maine lobster, and just-crispy fried seafood, plus a cozy oyster bar that begs for a midweek reset. Chef Alex Stewart keeps things interesting with weekly specials, so you can play faithful or adventurous.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Que Chula Craft Tacos & Tequila Bar nails weeknight cravings and weekend plans with fresh tacos, fajitas, and bowls that travel well. Planning something bigger? Their new catering menu brings taco bars, quesadilla trays, and chips with salsa to UNC events, office lunches, or backyard birthdays.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Whether it's spinach queso poured with reckless generosity, Arroz con Pollo that tastes like home, or a burrito the size of a small forearm, Bandido's Mexican Cafe nails the comfort-food side of Mexican. Chapel Hill’s Franklin Street standby since 1995, with chimis, tacos, and salsa roja that keep locals loyal.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar - Chapel Hill turns dinner into a little tour of India’s regions, with meticulously curated, authentic dishes in a modern setting and a proper beer-and-wine bar. Friendly, knowledgeable staff make it an easy go-to when you want bold flavor without the fuss.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Mr Tokyo Japanese Restaurant serves made-to-order sushi and hibachi with an all-you-can-eat option, so you can commit to your go-to roll and still experiment. It’s an easy pick for weeknights when the group is indecisive, or when your appetite says more, please.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 19, 2026

“When you want more than spicy tuna on autopilot, Sushi Mon delivers with nigiri omakase, yellowtail crudo, truffle tuna rolls, and miso black cod that makes weeknights feel celebratory. Add izakaya bites like eel bun or 24hr pork belly, let the chefs steer, and call it your midweek reset.”

From the Apex newsletter, August 3, 2026

“This week, Wings Over Raleigh is the move when you want crispy wings and juicy tenders made fresh and tossed in one of 15+ signature flavors, from easygoing Lift-Off to face-melting Afterburner. They also do boneless, wraps, tender sandwiches, and sides that actually bring the party.”

From the Fuquay-Varina newsletter, August 5, 2026

“Strawberry Breakfast House is turning sleepy Greensboro mornings into something you actually look forward to, with artisanal plates built from locally sourced ingredients and barista-crafted, locally roasted coffee that hits just right. Cozy, lively, and delicious...”

From the Greensboro newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Durham weather or not, Tasu Noodle Bar is a reliable hug in a bowl with freshly-made pho, slurpable Japanese ramen, and hearty teriyaki bowls built on fresh ingredients. Keep it low-key, high-comfort, and let the broth do the talking while you pretend this counts as self-care.”

From the Durham newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Durham staple since 2007, Silver Spoon Restaurant keeps it simple with classic, comforting breakfast and lunch that actually tastes like someone cares. When you want a warm, welcoming vibe and tried-and-true favorites, make this your midweek treat and let the menu do the deciding.”

From the Durham newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Whether you’re plotting a low-key date or a celebratory dinner with friends, Hawthorne & Wood delivers polished, sophisticated plates with both local and global flair, plus cocktails that actually surprise and a wine list worth lingering over. Private room available when your group chat gets ambitious.”

“When you want tradition to take the lead, M Sushi leans into pristine Japanese seafood and clean, classic sushi in a dimly lit, industrial-chic room that somehow makes weeknights feel like occasions. Go for the simple cuts, stay for that quietly excellent finish.”

From the Durham newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Italian dishes such as carbonara, lasagna and risotto in a dark-hued setting, plus a bar serving cocktails.”

“If your week needs a morale boost, Mellow Mushroom Greensboro is slinging creative stone-baked pies with premium ingredients, plus Munchies, Greens, calzones, and even burgers. Wash it down with one of 32 draft beers or a handcrafted cocktail, and go gluten-free or vegan if that’s your vibe.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, August 28, 2026

“La Cucina Italiana Raleigh keeps it classic with a broad, no-fuss lineup of pizza, pasta, and subs, plus calzones, stromboli, salads, and desserts when you want the full spread.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 20, 2026

“Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can café, A Place at the Table dishes out fresh, locally sourced breakfast and lunch all day with a side of genuine community. Swing by this week for comfort food that tastes good and does good... you might even bump into a neighbor volunteering behind the counter.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Phở Super 9 is the easy win when you want slurp-worthy pho, vermicelli bowls, and crispy rolls, then a boba smoothie to call it a day. They keep it classic and cozy, with banh mi, rice plates, and Vietnamese coffee for that midday reboot.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Stylish, low-key hangout offering inventive cocktails, charcuterie & globally inspired dishes.”

“Casual eatery serving Southern staples like fried fish, mac and cheese and oxtails, plus desserts.”

“Carolina Moe's BBQ brings Eastern North Carolina pit barbecue to you around Raleigh with whole hog, slow-smoked brisket, tender ribs, and that famous 5 cheese mac and cheese plus banana pudding.”

“Craving dinner with a side of showtime? Kabuto Steakhouse serves hibachi style dishes hot and flavorful, a full sushi selection, and classic Japanese entrées that hit the comfort spot. Rally the crew and make it a fun, zero-cooking night.”

From the Durham newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Heavenly Buffaloes keeps weeknights interesting with chicken and legit vegan wings, all tossed in sauces that range from polite to send-help spicy. Easy online ordering with their DoorDash partnership, plus catering for game-day spreads, makes them a dependable go-to when the craving hits.”

From the High Point newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Alimentari at Mothers & Sons turns daytime cravings into an Italian habit, with stacked sammies, fresh pasta, and bread baked fresh daily, plus a handy market for olives, pesto, and beer and vino to-go. They’ll also cater your office thing or porch hang, so you can be the hero without lifting a pot.”

From the Durham newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Timber Pizza Co. Durham is slinging 12-inch pies with playful touches like spicy honey drizzle, B&B jalapeños, and basil pesto, plus slow roasted pork empanadas on the side. Save room for their seasonal ice cream served in house-made wood-fired cones...”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, August 21, 2026

“Casual eatery specializing in chef-inspired burgers, plus chopped salads and craft beer on tap.”

“Farmside Kitchen - Durham RTP turns out scratch-made Farmbowls, salads, and sides with Americana-inspired flavors and ingredients sourced locally whenever possible.”

From the Durham newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Neighborhood staple since 2002, MoJoe's Burger Joint keeps Glenwood South fed with award-winning burgers, stacked sandwiches, and cold local NC beers. Roll up with friends, claim a patio table, and let the conversation outlast the fries... it's the no-fuss, reliably good option you circle back to.”

From the Garner newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Veteran destination for Southern coastal cooking presented against a sleek backdrop.”

“At Brodeto, Chef Scott Crawford channels Southern Italy and Croatia with lighter, seafood-forward plates that read polished yet unfussy.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 21, 2026

“Clean eatery specializing in the Vietnamese noodle soup dish, pho.”

“Modern, industrial interiors in an elevated dining room with inspired Asian fare focused on sushi.”

“Van Loi II Vietnamese Restaurant & Chinese BBQ hits that happy spot between soothing and bold, with fragrant pho, roasted duck and pork, and make-your-own spring rolls. When you want real heat, the Bun Bo Hue delivers, and the seafood dry noodles keep things slurpable.”

“Family-run and refreshingly casual, Ba-Da Wings keeps the Raleigh area fed with hot wings in a pile of sauce options, plus a full bar featuring local pours, a dozen taps, and 40+ bottles and cans. Easy place to drop in when you want cold beer, hot wings, and zero fuss.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 14, 2026

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

“If your week needs a little Italy, Mothers & Sons Trattoria is rolling handmade pasta daily and building plates around seasonal, regional flavors. Settle in with a spritz or something from their amaro and wine lists, then share a couple primi and pretend you’re on Via Roma.”

From the Durham newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Counter-serve smokehouse chain offering classic barbecue fare in down-home settings.”

“Bin 54 Steak & Cellar pairs premium cuts and seafood with an award-winning, revolving wine program, so your ribeye can actually meet its match. Local ingredients, house cocktails, and a quietly elegant dining room make it a dependable pick when Chapel Hill plans call for something genuinely delicious.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Steakhouse chain serving beef, seafood & cocktails in swanky surrounds with live music.”

“Tucked inside a gas station, Chop Shop BBQ & Grill turns oak and hickory smoke into Carolina comfort, from pulled pork sandwiches with slaw and hushpuppies to family-size Pig or Hog Packs, plus sides like mac and cheese, banana pudding, and Brunswick stew. Perfect for an easy weeknight or tailgate-ready catering.”

From the Garner newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Southern country breakfasts & lunches in a bright space with indoor & outdoor seats by the Market.”

“Family-friendly buffet chain featuring all-you-can-eat American fare, plus salad & dessert bars.”

“Osteria brings Emilia-Romagna to Greensboro with handmade ravioli, strozzapreti, tagliolini, gnocchi and fettuccini, plus sauces made fresh daily and staples like prosciutto, mortadella, parmigiano and balsamic.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Rody's Tavern keeps it local with 24 taps heavy on North Carolina craft, plus a scratch kitchen turning out fresh, never frozen wings, hand pattied burgers, and house made sauces and sides. Big screens everywhere, a patio fireplace, and Golden Tee make it an easy hang.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Garner friends, when the red-sauce craving hits, Anthony's La Piazza Prime brings an upscale Italian vibe to downtown Raleigh with house-made pasta, prime steaks, artisan pizza, and an exceptional wine list. Perfect for date nights, late-night bites, or letting them handle the party with private dining and catering.”

From the Garner newsletter, September 2, 2026

“When this week needs a warm-up, Tampopo Ramen & Hibachi serves classic bowls like Tonkotsu, Miso, Shoyu, Shio and Champon that hit the spot. Bring a friend who swears they’re not a ramen person... the sizzling hibachi lineup of steak, chicken, shrimp, tofu or veggies will keep the peace and your cravings very happy.”

From the High Point newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Easy Like Sunday nails that Greensboro brunch sweet spot with locally sourced, scratch-made plates, handcrafted coffee, and curated cocktails that don’t try too hard, they just hit right. Need food for a meeting or celebration?”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Whether you crave a build-your-own stacker or want to wander into Pulled Pork Egg Rolls and a Fried Green Tomato BLT, PorterHouse Burger Company - Pisgah Church nails comfort food with a Greensboro accent.”

From the Salisbury newsletter, September 10, 2026

“MACHETE turns North Carolina’s best ingredients into shareable, seasonal plates that lean Southern while globe-trotting on flavor, with cocktails to match. A James Beard Best New Restaurant semifinalist and a Wine Enthusiast Top 50 Wine Restaurant in America, it nails the lively, no-fuss night that still feels special.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Vibrant cafe serving seasonal German fare, baked goods & drinks in an open, airy venue.”

“Enzo's Pizza Co. turns family recipes and local ingredients into award-winning specialty pizzas, plus solid sandwiches and salads when you should eat something green. They’re big on catering and private events too, so keep them in mind for your next game watch or office spread.”

From the Durham newsletter, September 6, 2026

“When the BBQ craving hits, Stamey’s Barbecue still does it the old-school way, Lexington-style pork cooked over hardwood coals with that tangy dip. Pile on slaw and hot hushpuppies, sip sweet tea, then pretend you won’t get cobbler... we won’t judge.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, August 24, 2026

“1618 Midtown nails the casual-but-polished sweet spot with inventive small plates, a sharp wine list, microbrews, and cocktails that actually taste as good as they look. Menus change often, so there’s always something new to try, plus a weekend late-night menu when the night refuses to end.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, August 20, 2026

“When you want a low-key, no-fuss spot over in Greensboro that nails the essentials, Saigon Cuisine Restaurant brings authentic Vietnamese flavors with plenty of vegetarian-friendly picks. Call it a midweek reset or lazy weekend bite, this week is a great time to let their comfort food do the heavy lifting.”

From the High Point newsletter, August 21, 2026

“When the week needs serious flavor, The Farmer’s Indian Restaurant serves up dhaba-style North Indian favorites alongside South Indian staples, with sizzling tandoori, aromatic biryanis, crisp dosas, fresh naan, and plenty of vegan options, all built on locally sourced ingredients.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Casual eatery serving creative combinations of loaded French fries, including vegetarian options.”

“Pizzeria L'Italiano is that downtown standby for foldable slices, saucy spaghetti, and pies that range from classic cheese to Hot Honey Pepperoni and a square Sicilian. Add garlic knots or fried ravioli, then pretend this counts as meal prep for the week.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Sundays AM Eatery keeps it simple, tasty and local with breakfast, brunch and lunch daily, plus mimosas, creative Bloody Marys and legit espresso drinks. Slide in this week for comfort food that doesn’t cut corners and an easy vibe that makes weekday mornings feel a little like Sunday.”

From the Wake Forest newsletter, August 27, 2026

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

“Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that doubles as an event space and cocktail bar.”

“Shake up your week with Farina Neighborhood Italian, a neighborhood hub where fresh pastas, pizzas, and seafood share the stage with clever modern twists, plus a thoughtfully curated wine list and a robust spirits selection. Dressy or casual, it just works... and the leftovers hit even harder tomorrow.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 29, 2026

“An old gas station turned Southern eatery with a rooftop bar, serving classic bites & milkshakes.”

“Giovanni's Italian Restaurant brings chef-driven, from-scratch dishes inspired by Sicily and Northern Italy, plus hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood, all with an upbeat, stylish vibe. Grab a patio table, catch the weekly live music, and taste why they’ve been a Triad favorite for over two decades.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Since 1938, Clyde Cooper's Barbeque has kept Raleigh fed with Carolina-style barbecue made from the same old school recipes, now with a little facelift and a few new menu items. They serve local beer and wine, sell out daily, and the old-fashioned counter vibe still hits just right.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Casual chain featuring egg dishes & other breakfast items, plus brunch sandwiches.”

“An all-day menu of Southern comfort food with a creative twist, plus craft beers & cocktails.”

“Little Bull serves Pocho-inspired comfort food with a Durham soul, from birria dumplings to grilled octopus that persuades octo skeptics, plus cocktails worth lingering over. Perfect for date night or a crew meetup, and they also cater and host private parties when you need to feed a crowd.”

“Local sports bar chain serving steak, seafood & pub grub in a lively, contemporary setting.”

“Outpost of upmarket steakhouse chain known for sizzling, butter-topped beef in an elegant setting”

“Craving pristine sashimi and creative specialty rolls that actually deliver, not just look pretty? Uwa Sushi & Grill mixes traditional and modern bites with perfectly prepared hot dishes, plus a full bar of signature cocktails and sake, so this week’s dinner upgrade basically picks itself.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, August 22, 2026

“When spicy, sweet, or somewhere-in-between hits, Heavenly Buffaloes comes through with chicken and vegan wings tossed in a ton of sauces across every heat level. Perfect for a last-minute dinner or game-night spread, and yes, your spice-averse friend and heat seeker can finally eat in peace together.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Long-running, family-friendly steakhouse chain known for its ribs, onion loaf & Romarita drinks.”

“South Durham near RTP, Sal’s Pizza & Ristorante is your go-to this week when the crew can’t agree. Classic New York style pies for the purists, baked pastas and hearty chicken and seafood plates for the rest... all the comfort of Nonna’s kitchen without dirtying yours.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Storied sports bar with an extensive menu of American fare, plus a long list of single-malt scotch.”

“Big Cat is a restaurant-meets-market built for Raleigh weeknights, group texts, and last minute plans. Playful vibe, legit cooking, and an easy Reserve button mean you can grab dinner and snag something from the market in one stop that feels like a friend opened a spot down the street.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Vic's Pizzeria keeps Raleigh fed with New York style pies and classic Italian favorites made with fresh, local ingredients. Hit Glenwood, City Market, or Lake Boone for dine-in, curbside, or delivery, and if you’ve got a crew, their pizza party setup makes celebrating wonderfully easy.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 11, 2026

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

“From organic, grass-fed beef to bison, elk, boar and lamb, Burger Village builds seriously good patties with clean ingredients and plenty of swagger. Vegan and gluten-free friends are covered too, with plant-based burgers and crispy cauliflower tenders plus waffle or loaded fries that hit the spot midweek.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Casual and unpretentious, Sake House turns out fresh sushi, comforting Japanese staples, and a few Thai options in a cozy room lit by pendant lanterns. It’s the kind of spot you keep in your back pocket for easy dinners when the fridge is giving you nothing.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Southern-style tapas & an extensive wine list in a casually chic, contemporary setting.”

“Made-to-order burgers & milkshakes fill out the menu at this quick-serve chain with retro decor.”

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

“Counter-service pizzeria serving New York-style pies along with Italian dishes and subs.”

“North Raleigh’s Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar nails elevated comfort, from bubbling mac & cheese skillets and shrimp & grits to fried green tomatoes and their signature pimento cheese. Pair it with a proper bourbon pour or a house cocktail, then consider the bourbon bacon jam burger the move this week.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, August 30, 2026

“S. Stack your favorite rolls, ladle up something warm and comforting, and make this your midweek win, Raleigh.”

From the Wake Forest newsletter, August 15, 2026

“Old-school and proudly simple, Ole Time Barbecue turns out chopped pork, Brunswick stew, fried chicken, hush puppies, and banana pudding that taste like someone’s grandma still runs the pass. Planning a Friday night game or backyard hangout this week? Their catering makes tailgates and pig pickings stupid easy.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Akashi Sushi is a family-owned South Durham standby where one table can juggle a sushi boat, a hibachi plate, and slurpable noodles, so everyone wins. Go for shareable specialty rolls like the Volcano Roll or keep it simple with comforting bento and teppanyaki when you need an easy takeout night.”

From the Durham newsletter, September 14, 2026

“Garner nights when no one can pick a spot, Sushi Nine quietly crushes it with hibachi, Thai and Chinese favorites plus more than 40 sushi rolls. Think crispy rice tuna, chicken satay, and sashimi samplers, then settle in for an easy, casual dinner that satisfies every mood.”

From the Garner newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Salvino Cucina Italiana pairs white-tablecloth elegance with a deep wine list and the kind of classics you crave, from linguine that twirls just right to veal cooked with care. Greensboro voted it Best Italian in 2026, so you know it’s not just nostalgia.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Mediterraneo Restaurant is a family-run staple where handcrafted pizzas sit alongside Italian classics and Lebanese-influenced plates, all from owners blending both traditions. Easy weeknight pick for locals, a solid group-dinner option, and they’ll even cater when you’d rather keep the oven strictly decorative.”

From the Sanford newsletter, September 9, 2026

“All-you-can-eat joint serving chicken wings, cheesesteaks, and other comfort foods in a casual setting.”

“Chain restaurant serving steaks, seafood & cocktails in an upscale lodgelike setting.”

“Low-key eatery offering build-your-own poke bowls & popular Vietnamese fare such as pho & banh mi.”

“Since 2000, Bella Monica has been Raleigh's cozy neighborhood trattoria with serious Nana's-table energy, pairing Italian comfort cooking with a thoughtful wine list. It’s also a reliable spot for gluten-free Italian classics, so weeknight cravings and date-night vino can happily coexist at the same table.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 2, 2026

“Hickory Tree Turkey BBQ proves you can keep the smoke and lose the heaviness, serving chopped turkey barbecue, soul rolls, and those giant stuffed turkey legs, including the award-winning Crack-N-Cheese version. They cater, the food truck makes the rounds, and the collards and mac-n-cheese taste like grandma co-signed.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 19, 2026

“Crust & Craft turns out crisp, chewy pizzas with housemade dough and sauces, fired hot for that just-right char. Creative combos alongside comfort classics mean you can keep it simple or get adventurous, and it all pairs well with a laid-back, neighborhood vibe.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Hops Burger Bar keeps it simple and seriously good, with a superior Angus blend, a wall of fry options, and local craft beers and wines. Look for offbeat featured burgers like the Bloody Mary Burger with pepper jack, jalapeño bacon, vodka-spiked onions and fried bourbon pickles.”

From the High Point newsletter, September 5, 2026

“Mizu Sushi Steak Seafood has been family owned since 2007, turning out super fresh sushi, seafood and hibachi in a laid back, welcoming vibe. This week, when you need a midweek pick-me-up, their rolls and sizzling hibachi hit that crave spot, simple, satisfying, and very North Raleigh.”

From the Wake Forest newsletter, August 28, 2026

“With a legit bar, a patio for breezy hangs, and a fireplace when evenings cool off, The Mill Raleigh nails that relaxed, neighborhood feel. Menu highlights swing from shareable nachos to salmon and steak frites, which is basically dinner winning at life.”

From the Wilson newsletter, September 9, 2026

“The Pit Authentic Barbecue serves authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue, backs it up with a solid drinks list, and makes life easy with catering, tailgate packages, and private events. It’s even Michelin Guide recommended, which is a fancy way of saying your plate will disappear fast.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 10, 2026

“7 mode with refreshed digs and the same earnest hospitality. Think locally sourced takes on Southern staples, a deep libations list, live music in the bar with no cover, plus on-site art from resident painter Chip Holton.”

From the Greensboro newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Midtown Pho keeps it cozy with steaming pho, classic banh mi, and vermicelli bowls that hit the spot, the kind of flavors you crave midweek. Book a table online or snag takeout, and know they also cater everything from corporate events to wedding festivities.”