The best restaurants in Southern Pines

“Chain offering fuel & familiar convenience goods, including packaged snacks, drinks & takeaway fare.”

“Artfully presented New American creations, some with Indian flair, in a modern, high-ceilinged space”

“Counter-serve chain dishing up Southwestern staples from burritos to nachos in lively environs.”

“Fast-food chain serving Mexican-inspired fare such as tacos, quesadillas & nachos.”

“Fast-food chain with made-to-order burgers, fries & hot dogs, plus free peanuts while you wait.”

“Health-conscious cafe chain featuring a menu of custom smoothies, sandwiches & wraps.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Family-owned chain selling ready-to-serve smoked hams, plus turkeys, roasts, side dishes & desserts.”

“Family-friendly chain serving classic Tex-Mex & American fare in a Southwestern-style setting.”

“Easygoing counter-service chain known for its sandwiches, stuffed baked potatoes & sweet tea.”

“Contemporary grill chain offering a seafood-centric menu, plus steaks & cocktails.”

“Long-standing chain serving a wide variety of pancakes & other American breakfast & diner fare.”

“Family-friendly daytime diner with biscuit sandwiches, breakfast platters & hearty sides.”

“Branch of a fast-food chain known for its drive-thru BBQ, burgers & more than 40 milkshake flavors.”

“Simple chain spot offering American diner fare & all-day breakfast, including signature waffles.”

“Informal watering hole offering elevated pub grub such as sandwiches & wings amid many TVs.”

“New Jersey–based counter-serve sandwich chain serving jumbo subs filled with cold cuts & toppings.”

“Chain eatery specializing in thick-crust pizzas, also offering sides & desserts.”

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

“Counter-serve chain serving up a menu of specialty or custom pizzas for takeout or delivery.”

“Brick-walled eatery for casual Italian-American comfort food, including pizza, pasta & salads.”

“Low-key counter-serve outlet offering NY-style pies & slices with creative toppings, plus take-out.”

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

“Brick-walled cafe with charming, eclectic decor & a menu of creative sweet & savory crepes.”

“BBQ chain eatery featuring house-smoked meats, stuffed baked potatoes & classic sides.”

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

“Sports bar & grill chain with an extensive menu of typical bar food & TVs galore.”

“Stylish, old-school watering hole with pub food, sports on the big screen & a sprawling patio bar.”

“Relaxed, equestrian-themed restaurant & bar serving American fare.”

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

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

“Casual steakhouse & seafood restaurant known for candlelit prime rib dinners & more.”

“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

“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

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

“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

“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.”

“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

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

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

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

“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

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

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

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

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

“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.”

“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

“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

“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.”

“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

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

“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

“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

“Corner Boys BBQ rolls through with Southern-style brisket and ribs from self-taught chef James D. Sampson. They lean on locally grown produce and a community-first vibe, and they cater, so keep tabs on the truck or book it next time your block chat starts debating dinner.”

From the Wilson newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Popular spot serving a diverse range of dishes, including vegan options, in a laid-back setting.”

“Saigon Kitchen cooks from family recipes with fresh ingredients, serving Vietnamese comfort like slow-simmered pho broth and caramelized clay pot dishes. It feels like a friend’s kitchen, only backed by 20 years in the game... perfect for those weeknights when Raleigh needs a warm, slurpable reset.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Que Pashoo leans into bold Mexican flavors with shareable plates, a lively vibe, and easy online ordering when the couch wins. Think ceviche flights, sizzling fajitas, and tableside guac, plus catering if your next backyard hangout escalates from a few friends to full-on fiesta.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Parkside Restaurant brings retro-industrial charm and reclaimed barn wood warmth to hearty American comfort food and easy-sipping draft beers. Raleigh Warehouse District or Wendell, pick your vibe and settle in for a brunch that feels like a high-five to your weekend, not a to-do list.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar brings the good stuff to downtown Raleigh, a quick hop from Garner, with house favorites like lasagna, pizza they proudly call the best in Raleigh, and an extensive wine list focused on Italian estate vineyards.”

From the Garner newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Birdie's Barroom & Kitchen keeps things classic with well-executed American staples, a bar built for lingering, and just enough creative twists to keep weeknights interesting. Easy spot for catching up with friends, a casual date, or turning a quick bite into a longer story.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Hip, modern hideaway for Laotian fare & exotic cocktails in a slick, yet woodsy looking space.”

“Southern Italian dishes, plus Neapolitan- & Sicilian-style pizzas, in an old-school environment.”

“Brigs at the Park Restaurant keeps Durham brunch fresh with a full menu available anytime and rotating hits like a Benedict of the Month, Griddle of the Month, Avocado Toast of the Month, Omelet of the Week and special Royal Skillets, so your cravings can actually get what they want.”

From the Chapel Hill newsletter, August 17, 2026

“Figulina is the spot where Southern ingredients cozy up to Italian tradition, handmade in an open-view pasta room under Chef David Ellis. Seasonal menus, a dialed-in wine and aperitivo list, and that James Beard semifinalist shine make it an easy Raleigh go-to when you want pasta that matters.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Buzzy chain serving massive burgers with gourmet toppings plus hand-cut fries & other sides.”

“Chef Pete Dougherty and the crew at Rye Bar & Southern Kitchen give North Carolina staples a fresh, seasonal glow, pulling from nearby farms. Think craft beers, uncommon cocktails, and comfort food with modern polish that still tastes like home, perfect for a midweek mood lift without leaving the Triangle.”

From the Garner newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Meat & Bite keeps it simple and tasty with made-to-order smash burgers (single, double, or triple if you dare), a legit hot fried chicken sandwich, and crispy chicken fingers with house aioli, all using fresh, never frozen halal meat.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 11, 2026

“Think burrito-sized sushi you can eat with one hand, hand-rolled to order with fresh, daily prepped ingredients, plus rice bowls if you're skipping seaweed and plenty of gluten-free or vegan options. Fast, filling, actually fun... Sushioki is worth the detour next time plans pull you toward Durham.”

From the Sanford newsletter, September 13, 2026

“When the week calls for something a little fancy, Vidrio delivers upmarket Mediterranean plates and craft cocktails in a space with dramatic, head-turning decor. Think relaxed, polished vibes perfect for catching up with friends or sneaking in a midweek reset that still feels like a treat.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 13, 2026

“LaGana keeps things fine-casual with inventive burgers that nail comfort and creativity in one bite, plus a thoughtful lineup of wines, beers, bubbles, and handcrafted cocktails. Put it on your rotation this week, and keep an eye on their omakase updates for an extra-fun twist.”

From the Rocky Mount newsletter, August 21, 2026

“When cravings hit, Longleaf Swine brings the NC whole-hog tradition with slow-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and other chef-crafted goodness. The relaxed spot pours beer, cider, wine, plus a strong bourbon list, and it’s handy for game day catering or an easy Raleigh meetup with friends.”

From the Rocky Mount newsletter, September 6, 2026

“When the craving hits this week, Sam Jones BBQ delivers chopped pork slow-smoked over Carolina oak, wings tossed in Alabama white or buffalo, and Texas-style brisket that means business, plus Skylight Inn style cornbread and banana pudding that tend to vanish as soon as they hit the table.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Poole's Diner keeps the menu moving with reimagined classics like pimento cheese with fried saltines, Maine Lobster Doughnuts with Béarnaise aioli, and the cult-fave Macaroni au Gratin. Swing by this week for whatever's in season... and maybe that soft serve sundae with braised blueberries.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 27, 2026

“Small plates and artisanal cocktails in a casual space with a rustic vibe.”

“Down-to-earth restaurant serving classic breakfast fare, plus sandwiches, salads & soups.”

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

“Casual Italian restaurant & pizzeria with a sports-bar feel, frequented by NC State Wolfpack fans.”

“Kinya Ramen Sushi Bar- Durham Near Southpoint Mall hits the spot when you want slurpable ramen and crisp, clean sushi without making it a whole thing. A solid neighborhood standby for post-errand lunches, weeknight dinners, or whenever your chopsticks start tapping impatiently.”

From the Durham newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Anise Pho is serving Vietnamese comfort with rich pho built on bone or vegan broth, crisp banh mi with homemade mayo, fresh spring rolls, and bun bowls that eat like a salad but feel like a treat. Pair it with a Viet cream coffee or a taro milk tea and call it a weeknight win.”

From the Holly Springs newsletter, August 19, 2026

“Tazza Kitchen Village District keeps things easy with a seasonal menu of brick oven pizzas, tacos, salads and shareables that hit the spot after a long day. Handcrafted cocktails, craft beer and approachable wines make it a smart move for pre-show plans or a post-errand bite in the Village District.”

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 13, 2026

“Italian spot for pizza pies, pastas and other classics, plus a full bar.”

“When pizza night turns into bring-everyone night, Anthony's La Piazza nails the family-friendly vibe with classic pies, big bowls of pasta, and plenty of chicken and seafood favorites. Clayton and Benson folks have easy pickup or delivery, and the HWY 42 crew is covered too.”

From the Johnston County newsletter, September 1, 2026

“Sake Bomb leans into inventive sushi rolls, elevated Asian dishes, and a legit sake lineup that goes way beyond the usual. Stylish without trying too hard, it’s the spot when you want dinner to feel like a treat, not just takeout.”

From the High Point newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Since 1975, Irregardless has mixed a globally inspired, locally sourced menu with live music and rotating local art, making it the rare spot where your entree shares the stage. Go for dinner or a lazy brunch, stay for the vibe that feels quintessentially Raleigh.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Southern breakfast & lunch plates in a laid-back cafe with funky antiques hanging from the ceiling.”

“Updated red-sauce Italian-American fare with local ingredients served in cozy digs with a courtyard.”

“Uzbek cuisine with halal options, plus Italian dishes, served in an informal setting.”

“When you want sushi without overthinking the order, Omakase by Kai runs the show with a chef-led lineup that spotlights quality fish and clean flavors. Reserve when you’re feeling fancy or hit Order Online for an easy, weeknight upgrade that still tastes special.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, September 6, 2026

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

“Brick-&-mortar location of a popular food truck featuring creative hamburgers made from local beef.”

“Quaint bakery, cafe & wine retailer with specialty groceries, sandwiches & weekend brunch.”

“Make this week tastier at Mellow Mushroom Raleigh, serving creative pies with delicious dough, premium ingredients, and unique flavors, plus Munchies, Greens, calzones, and even burgers. Grab a gluten-free or vegan spin if you want, then pair it with one of 20 draft beers or a handcrafted cocktail.”

From the Raleigh newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Branch of a laid-back chain known for Southern food & all-day breakfast selections.”

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

“New York-style pies and other comfort food are available at this counter-serve spot.”

“Regional BBQ specialties served up on plates & in sandwiches in a roadhouselike setting.”