The 14 best spots for oysters in Raleigh

Firstly, I have to give a note of appreciation to Megan Nichols and the team at "NC Eat & Play". It is because of their "Brunch Guide to the NC Triangle" that I even knew about St. Roch. I’m not exaggerating when I say this was one of the finest dinning experiences I’ve had in a long time. My aunt and I came here for brunch on a Saturday morning at 11am. From walking in through the arched vestibule to sitting at a back booth our expectations were only on the rise. My Meal Frenchman’s Punch Hama Hama Oysters (raw) Carolina Calabash w/ Fried Catfish Aunties Meal Irish Coffee Carolina Calabash w/ Fried Shrimp Side of Grits Beignets w/ Bourbon Caramel Sauce (shared) We were greeted by a handful of wait staff with friendly smiles and a southern greeting. We were waited on promptly by a very hospitable man who said cheers every time we ordered or he checked on us. They take the entire order at the very beginning and course everything out in the kitchen. Every detail is thought out to the letter! They even used cut pieces of paper from outdated menus as a barrier between the dish the food came in and the plate it was on. Resourceful and deliberate in every choice they make. And the food. Oh, the food! In a word, exquisite. The Frenchman’s Punch was very light and refreshing. A complexity of flavors that felt very southern and well balanced. The oysters were very fresh and buttery. We both ordered the Calabash and neither of us were able to finish all of it. About 15 min into the meal I realized that my fish was still steaming hot! Sometimes catfish can be oily, wet, gamy or some combination. This fish was none of those things. The breading was crispy and light while the fish was gently cooked and flavorful. The Calabash also comes with pomme frites and hushpuppies. Both were of excellent quality and perfectly cooked. The shrimp was very nice, nothing extravagant, but perfectly cooked, breading was thin and crispy (also had a little taste of paprika). These came with aioli and a buttermilk dressing, both of which were also wonderful. I think the star of the meal was the grits. These were not your ordinary grits. They’re high-quality, course, stone ground grits made with a béchamel sauce. I have never thought of adding béchamel to grits, but that is the only way I’ll make them going forward! Closing the meal with Beignets was also phenomenal. So perfectly made with a delicious sauce (really all of the sauces were fantastic), and we savored every drop. I cannot stop thinking about this amazing meal, service and restaurant. This will now be a regular stop every time I’m in Raleigh! Thank you for a perfect meal.

I have nothing but great things to say about St. Roch! The quality of the oysters were top tier and the service was unmatched. My husband and I were searching for a good oyster happy hour and landed here. $9 for a half dozen during happy hour was great, we ordered 2 dozen of their raw NC oysters and also had the roasted garlic butter ones as well. We will be returning, tomorrow for a round 2 and to explore more of the menu.

Just ate here for the first time and was very impressed! We had the cauliflower salad, which was delicious and unique, and the oysters/shrimp/crab combo platter — everything was super fresh and flavorful. The crackers and fixings for making little oyster bites were a great touch. The service and atmosphere were both excellent, and I loved the music selection (need to get ahold of that playlist!). We’ll definitely be back — thank you for a great experience!

So much is right and enjoyable here. The best extremely fresh oysters, lovely flavors in 'NoLa with a twist" main dishes and appetizers, calm friendly service from our favorite server Nathan (& his colleagues). Simply put, an inviting spot for couples, a small group, or going solo for the sheer joy of enjoying excellent food in a creative and well-appointed environment. When back in Raleigh I'll happily return!

Instantly my favorite restaurant in Raleigh. Everything is cooked and seasoned perfectly; I was only sad I couldn't try everything in one visit. We will be back for more! The oysters were delicious, even for me and I don't usually eat them raw. It was fun to mix & match all the different toppings. I also highly recommend the fried shrimp and the hushpuppies.

Service was outstanding. Oysters on half shell were very good. Char grilled were not the best. Gumbo had a lot of shredded chicken... wasn't so good. Service was awesome. No TV's, which was kind of weird to me.

St. Rochs absolutely blew us away. The food was phenomenal — every dish was packed with flavor and beautifully executed. Their happy hour oyster deal is truly unbeatable, and the quality is just as impressive as the price. Our server, Matthew, was outstanding — his service rivaled and even surpassed that of some of the top restaurants we’ve visited around the world. His attention to detail and warm professionalism elevated the entire experience. One note to the restaurant: please rename the “charred cabbage.” The name does it no justice and may be why it’s one of the most overlooked items on the menu. It’s beyond amazing — a must-try dish that deserves a better spotlight. Overall, St. Rochs delivers an exceptional dining experience on every level. We can’t wait to return!

Amazing Birthday Celebration I celebrated my birthday at Death & Taxes in December 2024 with family and friends, and the whole experience was incredible. Everyone in our group had a great time. The Second Rodeo cocktail was a standout—perfectly balanced with a smoky twist that I’ll definitely come back for. The food was delicious from start to finish—each dish was packed with flavor and cooked with care. The wood-fired cooking really added something special. The atmosphere was cozy yet modern, and the open kitchen made the experience even more engaging. The staff was attentive and made us feel welcome throughout the night. It was a memorable evening, and I’d highly recommend Death & Taxes for birthdays, celebrations, or just a great night out in Raleigh.

Death and Taxes is a great spot for a 4th or 5th date (or first, if you’re a big baller), or celebrating any occasion. The food is good to great, and service is really excellent! I tend to only leave 5 star reviews if this combination is met, and they definitely delivered. We are vegetarian, and it is pretty hard to introduce us to new ways to eat vegetables. So, the beet appetizer was a pleasant surprise as we hadn’t really had such a flavor profile before. The tomato appetizer was also good. We shared the vegetarian pasta afterwards, which was citrusy and good, although could have used more umami notes. The carrot side was also good, and family style sharing is definitely possible (or even encouraged?) here. All the dessert options and drinks are delicious. Our waitress was awesome, in line with other reviews. Shocked to hear it was only her second day on the job! Upon hearing about the reasons for our celebration that evening, she kindly brought out a little pour of something special on the house. But regardless of that gesture the attention and excitement she has for the food and our dining was impressive. Since I was a bit confused about dress code before going, I can now suggest this spot fits squarely into the category I call “if your shirt has at least two buttons, you’re good.”

We went to Death and Taxes last night for my boyfriend’s birthday, and honestly, WOW. From start to finish, this meal was unforgettable. The hardest part of the evening was choosing what to order, because everything on the menu sounded so good. Luckily, we went all in and it paid off. Drinks I ordered the Placebo Effect (Zero Proof) — clarified pineapple and orange juice, ginger, and coconut. This drink was phenomenal. Refreshing, bright, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of tartness. It paired seamlessly with every dish we ate and was so easy to sip on that it lasted me the entire two-hour dinner. A true standout in its own right. Appetizers We kicked off with three appetizers: two seasonal and one menu staple. • Fried NC Shrimp, Buried Garlic Aioli, Pickled Green Tomatoes Hands down the star of the night. Perfectly fried, juicy shrimp paired with tangy pickled tomatoes and the most addictive garlic aioli (the kind you unapologetically scrape clean with a spoon). It was so good that after our mains, Adam ordered a second round. That’s how good it was. • Grilled Golden Beets, Roasted Beet Purée, Dill Crema, Fennel, Pumpernickel Croutons Refreshing and beautifully balanced. The light earthiness of the beets met its match with the creamy dill and crunchy pumpernickel croutons. A perfect counterpoint to the richness of the shrimp and oysters. • Roasted NC Oysters, Chili Butter, Preserved Lemon Gremolata These were the best oysters I’ve ever had. The warmth of the chili butter with that hit of lemony brightness made each bite sing. I usually struggle with oyster texture, but I devoured my half of the plate. A couple had bits of shell (a reminder of just how fresh they were), but nothing that took away from the experience. Main Course We let our server guide us, and she steered us toward the NC Fish with Black Rice, Smoked Oyster XO Sauce, Bok Choy, and Prosciutto. A flawless choice. The fish was perfectly charred and flaky, the black rice was creamy yet delightfully chewy, and the umami-packed XO sauce tied everything together. Even the bok choy, which I almost skipped at first, turned out to be one of my favorite bites of the night. The crunch of the prosciutto added the finishing touch to an already perfect dish. I will dream about this plate for weeks. Dessert Though we were nearly full, dessert was non-negotiable. • Grilled Cornmeal Cream Puff, Blueberry Mousse, Corn Flake Brittle, Burnt Honey Syrup Light yet indulgent, with all the right textures, airy mousse, crisp brittle, soft puff, and warm honey. It felt like the perfect bow to end the night. And because we couldn’t resist, we took home the Corn Frangipane Tart with Market Peaches and Embered Whipped Cream, which I happily ate for breakfast this morning. Sweet-tart peaches, smoky cream, a buttery crust with just the right bite, and a little crumble on top, pure magic. Honestly the best breakfast I’ve ever had. Final Thoughts What I love most about Death and Taxes is how intentional every dish feels. Each element highlights the wood fire at the heart of the kitchen, without ever being gimmicky. Everything we ate was layered with flavor, balanced with texture, and beautifully plated. This meal wasn’t just dinner, it was an experience. I can’t wait to see what’s on the next season’s menu, and I already know I’ll be back for those oysters and another round of the Placebo Effect.

The bread and pasta is fresh and delicious. The wood grilled oysters with clarified butter are delicious as they are unique. The cocktails are quite complex in their ingredients (especially one particular whiskey drink that includes mezcal and amaro combined) and there is a good local beer selection. I had the Boone County Honey Ale with my braised duck rye pasta.

They were accommodating for food allergies & made an off menu dish for my vegan friend. I got the spaghettini and felt the portion size was very small. The atmosphere was very nice. The food was rather forgettable for the price.

My wife and I had a great time at Death & Taxes. We had to change our reservation from a party of 4 to 2 after some friends couldn't make it. We called the day prior and D&T was kind to accommodate our change. We arrived about 35 minutes before our reservation time of 7:15 and mentioned to the hostess that we wanted to have a drink at the bar first before being seated. The hostess mentioned the bar was full but that they could go ahead and seat us at our table and we could be free to have a drink there and take our time to soak in the ambiance. That was a great accommodation. I ordered a perfect gin martini and always have to describe what that is. Our server took the order but the bar tender came to our table later to make sure he knew exactly what I wanted. That was simply outstanding service in a very busy restaurant. He made me two Perfect martini's for sure. I'm grateful for the attention to detail and the willingness to get it just right. Our server Caleb was super friendly and took great care of us. He was supported by at least 3-4 other staff that was always looking after us. We started with the tuna tartare served with pita points. It was different than we had before with other ingredients in the mix but was absolutely delicious. I would recommend this as a great variation of this dish. Our steaks were cooked to perfection for the filet my wife had and the aged NY Strip which was served with a brown gravy which I took on the side. The steak was clearly aged as described and still had a bit of the pellicle from the dry aging process on one age which I didn’t mind at all. This helped to form a great sear on that side and contributes a nutty and earthy taste which is great. The brussels sprouts were unfortunately a huge miss and were burned and undercooked at the same time. We didn't ask for it but they took those off our bill. It likely was just a new cook or just a bad batch as they looked like they could be excellent. Very excited to have dined at D&T and would highly recommend it.

Place is great! We booked a reservation for the weekend after Valentine's. The waiter and other staff were informative and not overbearing. Food was amazing. My husband doesn't like olives and was hesitant to get the shrimp sharing plate because of them, but I wanted it so we got it. It was our favorite dish of the night. The next day I told my friends that if I make it back out to D&T I would order 2 of this dish and call it my entrée.

In reality I like to try to reserve 5 stars for cream of the crop dining experiences and this sits closer to a 4, but I'm going to round up because I loved the farm to table vibe. All the food had a fresh homemade feel. Our server was excellent as well. Chicken and waffles was my favorite dish out of everything we ordered (I'm not sure I've had buckwheat waffles before but they were fire), and the collards were on point as well. Catch of the day - the plate looked semi skimpy in comparison to the fully loaded chick waffles dish, but the fish was cooked well and the little beet endive side dish added a nice refreshing touch (if you're in the mood for something lighter). I'm usually not a huge fan of creme brulee because I feel like it's generic wherever you go, but I loved the way they zested this one up with orange. I left here very satisfied with the experience and without a bloated / ate-too-much-junk feeling that's common when I dine out. Will definitely come back.

I had googled best restaurants in Raleigh and Mandolin was one of several that appeared. I made reservations online and did not have to wait when we arrived. We had brunch, and it did not disappoint. We started with a sugar and cinnamon doughnut. I had the omelette which had asparagus, mushrooms and Gouda cheese. It was delicious. My daughter said the BLT was the best BLT she’s ever had. Ethan was our server and he was awesome. We enjoyed the fresh flowers on the table The walls leading to the restrooms are lined with very cool pictures. We will be back and highly recommend Mandolin.

The staff was friendly and accommodating, making the restaurant a pleasant place to dine. I tried the fried cauliflower and chicken dish, which unfortunately made me quite ill. However, everything else on the menu tasted delicious. My girlfriend’s oysters and grouper were a hit, and they were prepared perfectly.

We visited on a busy Saturday evening with reservations for a date night. Our server, Priscilla, was lovely and attentive. We shared the cornbread. A little dry, but the butter was so delicious. We both had the tomato/peach salad. It was fresh and delicious. For main courses, we enjoyed the pork chop and chicken and waffles. Both were delicious and highly recommend. The dining area is a bit loud, but overall, a great atmosphere. We will return!

We went to Mandolin for brunch and it was really great. The location is awesome and the place is super cute. Fresh flowers on the table were a nice touch. We got the shrimp and grits and a Bloody Mary. Both were amazing. The Bloody Mary had the perfect kick without being over the top, and the shrimp and grits were just really well done. Our server, Leanne, was awesome. Friendly, fast, and knew her stuff without hovering. It felt laid back but still a little fancy, like the kind of place you could go in jeans or dress up for. Definitely planning to come back.

THIS is the experience you should have at every restaurant. Ever. We met Sean earlier today at Tepuy Donuts and he told us about Mandolin, his restaurant. I had never heard of it, so we made a reservation. Not disappointed at all. I was blown away and so was hubby. Katelyn was our server and she was the cherry on top of this cake of a restaurant. She was so sincere and so sweet, super soft spoken and funny. I would personally request her as our server again. The bartender/ mixologist came over to see how we liked the drinks, he had a Lavender Lemonade and I had the Carrot Cake Hot Toddy. Sean actually came over to see us and thank us for stopping by! I will say I felt a little special. Hubby was made a custom drink with apple cider, ginger and muddled pear. I had an amaretto sidecar with a twist. Knocked me on my butt, but it was so smooth. We actually came here for the steak and cornbread. The cornbread is unlike anything I've had, and the butter is low key spicy, flavorful and unique. Subtle, yet, it has recognizable spices that meld beautifully. The steak basically a fully grown cow that takes time to cook. It's big, yet cooked to perfection. We had it cooked medium rare. It came out served with hot and fresh vegetables, Swiss cheese potatoes and a pat of fresh made butter on the top. Everything, every little thing, was perfect. Perfect for a date night, celebration, or just because.

Service was top tier and our waitress was very kind and knowledgeable about the menu. I really wish that we had tried their brunch menu instead of dinner but we actually enjoyed what we did try. The steak frites was cooked medium but still a little tough to chew. Cocktail and beers were wonderful. Duck croquette and southern oysters and pearls was amazing.

Ambiance was casual with a dash of quirkiness throughout the decor and even on the plates! Mixed menu of Tapas/small plates style and entree style dishes. Each one is a modern take on various food groups and flavor profiles. Service was great and attentive. They do not take reservations and they fill up quickly so I’d recommend getting there 20-30 min before they open and get your name on the list (even for the second/later seating) to secure a seat. Will definitely comeback as the menu changes frequently!

Overall I had a wonderful time at Stanbury. The atmosphere is very fun. The food is pretty good and the service was also good. We got the oysters that come already dressed which is nice so you don’t have to do the work. The bone marrow was very good, I especially liked the greens that came with it. The fish was the star of the show, it was so tasty! The sides it came with just made everything better and I kept wanting more. For dessert we got the halva rice Krispie which was ok, I was not wowd. Even though it came with the ice cream there was an element missing from being great. Drinks were decent as well, I especially enjoyed the last word. I’d definitely go back to see what else they have. It sucks they don’t take reservations so you have to get there at 4:30 to get a table that night. We arrived at 5:30 and got a table at 8:30. Not sure why they don’t take reservations in this day and age.

Best food I have had in NC since leaving new york ! A very creative menu that changes regularly. Great place for couples and foodies in general. The service was excelent and the menu was filled with delightfull options, making it very hard to decide. Stay for the desserts. We were highly impressed!

Just an amazing place. Such unique options, food is amazing, staff is super helpful. Get a bunch of small plates and share. Absolutely love this place.

Stanbury is my favorite restaurant in Raleigh. The food is superbly balanced and always fresh and inventive. Service is fantastic, and I love the eclectic aesthetic. It delivers an amazing experience without any pretentiousness.

WOW. Best food in Raleigh thus far. We tried to go to Stanbury at 5pm on a Saturday last year. That was a bust. You HAVE to be in line by 4:15 to even have a shot at getting your name in the list and being seated by 6. Went on Wednesday night - arriving just before 7 - and our party of 4 was sat outside (with heaters) immediately. Our server, Trudy (99% sure,) was phenomenal. She knew each dish and its history and gave us amazing recommendations on food and wine. My husband and I chose to share 5 small plates for our dinner. Our friends got two apps and the ribeye. We all tried one another’s food. Stupid good. I can’t comment on everything based on small tastes, but my standouts were the lamb and bone marrow. It was my friend’s birthday and they brought a slice of beach pie to the table. It was so refreshing and perfect!

My friends and I celebrated my birthday at Stanbury, and it was truly an incredible experience! The food was outstanding, and the service was top-notch. Our waitress, Grace, went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and accommodated our every need. Every dish we tried was bursting with flavor, particularly the roasted bone marrow, which was absolutely unforgettable. I can't recommend this place enough—a solid 10 out of 10!

We got a table outside right away, and there were fans. There are several options on the menu. We tried the mimosa and the iced chai latte, which were DELICIOUS! The avocado toast was good in my opinion but very small, so I also ordered the red shakshuka and the pork. I really enjoyed having breakfast here. The music was great too, and the service was excellent.

The staff was great and the ambiance was eclectic and relaxed. The gumbo didn’t not taste like gumbo. It was more like a soup and lacked the gumbo taste. Honestly it lacked taste in general. The first bowl came out luke warm but they quickly rectified that. The meatballs were good and had a nice flavor, I would order them again. I wish the spaghetti squash under would have had flavor like garlic or something but they were plain. My friend stated the steak was good but they ordered medium but the steak came out more well done. They had the sangria and stated it was really good. We will be returning, small menu options but nice change of scenery.

First time here and a really lovely experience. Food was delicious especially the blackened flounder sandwich, roasted oysters, and ricotta fritters! It was a nice day and we enjoyed brunch on the outdoor patio. All around great meal

I really enjoy everything about this restaurant! The amazing food, brunch is one of my favorites due to the amazing menu and drinks. The bartenders are fantastic mixologists, consistently good. If you haven’t tried the smoked oysters, they are an amazing little delicacy.

Service: I was welcomed immediately and the staff here were pleasant and helpful. I appreciated being treated kindly. Food: I enjoyed the veggie quiche. The cheese grits were also enjoyed. The quiche had a delicious rich and savory flavor and I enjoyed the flaky crust. Cocktail: I expected to sip on health, wealth and happiness when I ordered my espresso martini but the three beans were missing. The flavor was great but the presentation matters. Ambiance: I enjoyed brunch on the patio on a cool fall evening. There were heaters on the patio so I never got cold. The seating is comfortable and the atmosphere was very cozy. I do recommend Hummingbird and I love that there are reservation options.

Dropped in on a busy Wednesday and we didn’t have a reservation so sat at the bar… loved the atmosphere and the drinks were spot on! Hummingbird Fizz was delicious and $2 from each sale goes to Now Serving. Love that! We got excellent recommendations on the food from our friendly bartender. We tried the cauliflower, the Po’boy and the pork chop. All was beautifully presented and yummy! Great experience all around!

We were visiting from out of town and looking for a cute date night spot — Hummingbird was perfect! The restaurant is adorable, the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, there is ample parking and the food was all delicious — creative, solid plating and balanced flavors. We can’t wait to come visit again!

FIVE STARS to Coquette Brasserie for their classic French cuisine and delicious small plate luncheon menu! We love going at lunchtime — lighter crowds, great value, and the chance to mix in other favorites. Today’s meal featured perfectly prepared salmon, quiche, and sides (the truffle fries are outstanding!). Chef and staff are super! Bon appétit!

Coquette I visited Coquette in North Hills for lunch. Parking was easy and there were plenty of spots, which is always a good start. I ordered the steak sandwich. The bread was great, but the steak itself wasn’t very enjoyable for me. The potatoes on the side were delicious though, and I had a Diet Coke with my meal. One thing that surprised me was that I noticed lip gloss on the glass in front of where we were seated, which made me feel like the table wasn’t cleaned well before we sat down. Our server was very nice and friendly, so that helped the experience. Overall, I felt the price was pretty high for what we got.

The food was phenomenal and aesthetically pleasing. The service was great. The atmosphere made me feel like I was in a little French cafe.

Stopped in for a quick brunch on the way to RDU. Mimosas were a splendid pour and the perfect mix of orange juice. My Quiche Lorraine was 10/10, super velvety, and about six inches tall. Service was excellent, atmosphere is very cute bistro. Delightful little find, I’m so glad I stopped.

Lovely French atmosphere. It is very upscale. I am biased because I just got back from Paris so the food was 4/5. I would not recommend the macarons. Again, I was spoiled by eating a lot of macarons in Paris (mostly LADUREE). Quiche was very good.

Superb service and food. No reservations but they made accommodations for our family and we were so glad they did! The biscuit starters, the quiche and coffees absolutely amazing!

My sister and I had an incredible brunch at Coquette in North Hills! From start to finish, the experience was exceptional. We started with espresso martinis, which were perfectly balanced and absolutely delicious. For our meal, we both ordered the Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict, and it was outstanding—rich, flavorful, and beautifully prepared. Our server was wonderful, striking the perfect balance of professionalism and warmth. He was attentive without being intrusive, making sure we had everything we needed and enhancing our overall dining experience. Coquette has such a welcoming atmosphere, and the quality of both the food and service truly stood out. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a top-notch brunch spot in Raleigh!

I recently met an old friend for lunch at the Players Club. Classic old school atmosphere. Nice selection of beers. Food and service were very good.

This was our first time dining at this restaurant after hearing good things about the food and atmosphere. Overall, the experience was mixed. I ordered the 6 oz Wolf Pack Burger. It was decent, though nothing that really stood out. My wife built her own burger, and her first comment was, “We should’ve just made burgers at home.” Unfortunately, I had to agree. On the positive side, the wedge salad I ordered was fresh and flavorful, and the atmosphere of the restaurant was pleasant. However, the fries with my wife’s meal were dry and lacked much taste, which was disappointing. While there were a couple of bright spots, the food as a whole didn’t live up to expectations. For us, it’s probably not a place we’ll return to, but others may enjoy it depending on what they order.

This was our first visit. It's one of the oldest restaurant bars in Raleigh. It has the feel and smell of an old time college bar, with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. We stopped in to watch the Padres and Cubs game on the recommendation of some friends. There are plenty of wide screen TV's and each section of the bar had its own bathroom. On to the food. We were not impressed with the sandwiches. My wife ordered the special Mexican burger. I had the Reuben. Both were just OK. The wings we ordered were far superior to the sandwiches and my wife said the onion rings were delicious. They have a great draft beer selection and one of the largest Scotch selections I've ever seen. We'd go back for the atmosphere, but I'd stick with the wings as a main course the next time. The people sitting next to us had good looking salads, but who wants a salad at a sports bar. Park across the street in the free lot instead of using the paid parking in front of the bar.

Was my favorite place to go back when St. Mary’s was a Junior College. Loved the burgers and had my first legal beer there when I turned 18. The PR will always have a special place in my heart (and on my front porch)!!

Nice vibe with lots of TVs.. Onion rings are amazing. Good drink specials and friendly staff. We will be back.. Maybe tomorrow.

There’s no place like the PR for lunch on a cold windy day in January. The food was delicious and the service was great. You can never go wrong at Player’s Retreat! Update: We went here for a friend’s birthday! Dominick was our server and did an awesome job! No better place to celebrate a birthday!! Update: If you get a chance to have Willis as your server, you are guaranteed to have great service. We also love the atmosphere and the food!

Every time you go into the PR it’s like seeing an old friend again for the first time in long while. Yes, the food is always great and tasty, but it’s the people there that really make the PR a special place and Raleigh institution for almost 75 years. Everyone is welcome at the PR and it’s a place that’ll never let you down even when your sports teams do.

We had a fabulous dinner here. Our meals were delicious ans hot. Our drinks were delightful. The staff was friendly and accommodating. Warm atmosphere. Excellent menu! We enjoyed our dinner here. We will definitely go back with our children next time!

Recently visited CFSC at Spring Forest while on a road trip from Charlotte. We arrived around 5 pm on a Saturday before the dinner traffic and were able to be seated without a wait. This was a first visit for us even though we have lived in NC for about 8 yrs. The ambiance is pleasant and light, with big windows, unbusy seaside décor, perfect for conversation and relaxing. The appetizers include favorites with a Southern flair like fried green tomatoes and fried okra, but we began with crab dip and pita bread as an appetizer, perfect intro for what came next. For the mains, we chose the Saltimbocca and the Calabash Fried Flounder. My partner found the Saltimbocca tasty, while the flounder was nicely done, hot and tender with very light breading. The portions were generous. Our server was attentive and the service was prompt and everything arriving at the table fresh and at the right temperature. Sadly we did not have room for dessert, but we were drawn to the Key Lime pie, the crème brulee and the Pot de crème au chocolate among all the excellent options. Plans are to include a dessert or two with dinner on a return visit in the future. Highly recommended!

Just moved to NC from Florida. Ran into this seafood restaurant while my husband and I were driving around. We gave it a try with my parents and found everything amazing. I had Shrimp and Grits and my husband had the stuffed flounder. Both mind blowing! My parents had Fish and chips and Crab Cakes. Both were amazing! Our server was so nice and friendly. Definitely going back.

Atmosphere was wonderful. First time we have ever tried Cape Fear but definitely won’t be the last. Husband had shrimp and flounder I had flounder, food was hot and very tasty. Highly recommend blueberry cobbler for dessert. If you’re near this location or or the one in Wake Forest give them a try.

A place for seafood lovers! The staff was very helpful navigating the menu and giving suggestions. The Crab Bisque is very good. The Peel & Eat Shrimp were deveined which was nice. Both fish platters exceeded my expectations! I should have discovered Cape Fear Seafood sooner!

Amazing Seafood Experience – A Must-Visit in Raleigh! My visit to Cape Fear Seafood Company was absolutely wonderful! From the inviting atmosphere to the incredibly friendly staff, everything exceeded expectations. Our waitress, Courtney, was especially outstanding. She was attentive, personable, and even went above and beyond to help us take home a couple of the restaurant’s signature glasses as a souvenir! Now, let’s talk about the food, wow! Everything was perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. The Shrimp and Grits (their signature dish) was a standout: creamy, smoky, and deliciously smooth, with just the right balance of richness and spice. It’s easily one of the best versions of this dish I’ve ever had. Full stop. Overall, this was a fantastic dining experience, and I can’t wait to go back. If you’re in Raleigh and craving top-notch seafood with great service, Cape Fear Seafood Company is the place to be!

Went to Cape Fear Seafood for the first time on Saturday. I can honestly tell you that the food there was food was very good. For starters, we had the hot crab dip on pita bread. The crab dip had melted cheese on top, and it was very tasty. The pita bread was crispy for the most part, and just a little soft in others. For the main dish I had the The Whole Boat fried combo. You can't go wrong with a plate like that. Go there hungry, and you won't be when you leave. Next time I'll have to try the blueberry cobbler ala mode. It really look good.

I feel so fortunate to live locally to Boulted Bread, it’s one of my favorite places. their treats are delicious and made fresh, their staff are lovely and welcoming, and the coffee is always great. be prepared for a line in the morning on weekends (it’s worth the wait). if you get there a little later in the morning, you’ll be able to get the focaccia which has a different flavor each week and always hits the spot.

There may be a better bakery in Raleigh. But I sure haven’t found it! Fantastic bread, pastries, baguettes, you name it. Morning Buns are world class! A truly exceptional spot.

I really need you to ship to us :) we visited yesterday for the first time. My daughter and I were visiting colleges. We shared a chocolate croissant and the spinach and onion focaccia. Amazing is an understatement! We also got a couple coffees and they were also delicious! We live about 3 hours away so it’s not crazy far BUT I wish I could come there every weekend! The staff was also very friendly and welcoming.

Lovely little place! Me and my friends got some super yummy baked goods. I personally didn’t get anything to drink but my friends got a cappuccino and a matcha raspberry Tonic, which I thought was super creative and yummy. Definitely going to come back to try more :)

Items are hit or miss I did love the everything croissant. the morning bun was fresh and amazing as well however the pull apart barely had any filling the ham and cheese croissant was mediocre and I wasn't a fan of the loaf of bread or drip coffee I will say all items are fresh staff is very attentive and friendly it was a bit on the expensive side and I guess you just have to know what to get here

Read a lot of great things about this bakery online and decided to visit, it did not disappoint. The chocolate croissants are closer to what I've tasted in Europe than anywhere else I've tried here. We also got a chocolate chip cookie that the kids loved, and a load of ciabatta that probably didn't make it an hour before we got home.

Great breads and pastries! The blueberry coffee jam pinwheel was superb. Optimistic about the loaves too!

This has always been one of my favorites for lunch/dinner. Thus, this was my first time trying the brunch. I was a bit underwhelmed. The deviled egg appetizer sounds way better read on the menu than they taste — I was excited about the variety but unfortunately did not enjoy one variation on the plate. They were all too salty and left a lot otherwise to be desired from a taste perspective. We were halfway through our meal when we leaned of the side bar of food that we could access — that was disappointing that the waitress didn’t share that bit of information while we were waiting. There was nothing exceptional about the chicken & waffles or the traditional waffle plate with eggs and potatoes. The crab cakes were just “ok.” The best dish at the table was the shrimp & grits. Service was inconsistent…I will stick to dinner (best chicken piccata in Raleigh)!

Overall, a great dining experience! The menu has variety and everything we ordered was delicious. No complaints! We had a reservation for 2, for dinner at 5:30 on a Sunday. We were seated immediately and while more people arrived, it was never full or overcrowded. We weren’t in a rush and took our time, enjoying the meal and the experience.

We went on Father's Day so it was really busy. I'm sure the service would have been better if it was any other day. It took about 20 minutes before someone came to the table to take our order. The food was delicious, the burger was undercooked but they did not hesitate to make it right. The young lady asked if we wanted dessert but when we said yes she replied with being that we are changing from brunch to our regular menu all we have is cookies on the salad bar. So just confused as to why even ask, anyway I plan on coming again to try the dinner menu.

First time visiting STIR, and definitely won't be the last. Our server Aaron was very friendly and professional. Good portion, tasty and flavorful food. I had the Lobster and Srimp Mac and Cheese, and it wasn't disappointed. Everyone's food was delicious, as well as the drinks. Great place to enjoy food with good friends!

loved our brunch on Saturday. Tried one steamed oyster, delicious! And ordered the classic waffle plate with side of fruit. Only negative, they drizzled syrup on the waffles and would prefer the syrup on the side.

Labor Day Brunch North Hills with a Charleston Flare, stop by Stir. From cocktails to incredible food, outdoor seating, open air concept and wonderful service, a must. Chefs selection of raw oysters were fantastic, clean, flavorful, and delicious. The stars of Brunch: Shrimp and Grits and Shrimp and Crab Benedict. Both were absolutely delicious and some of the best I have ever had. Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, quick bite or just to grab a cocktail, definitely stop in.

Took my husband for his birthday. The food , service and atmosphere was great. He was very pleased. I always order the shrimp and grits and he tried the steak frites. I came here for a girls brunch also which was delicious . We will be back.

Fresh and delicious seafood with a flare for the adventurous. Try the fried fish collars, you won’t be disappointed. They're the chicken wings of fish, deep fried to perfection with a tasty and crunchy crust. The portions are very generous and the quality is constantly great. This restaurant is located in the Transfer Food Hall so if your partner doesn't like seafood there are plenty of other great options for food and great beer. The seat inside is plentiful and the weather is nice then you can enjoy the outdoor seating too.

Located in the Transfer Company it is a very cool space. Nice places to sit inside and out. Decided to try the seafood sausage and it was great! I have a feeling their other selections are even better but this was in a bun I could eat standing if needed. At night they have more formal options.

Just discovered that this is inside the Transfer Co. food hall in Raleigh which is a plus. Love food halls and the choices. Had the calabash platter which is the pic as well as steamed oysters. Tasty, however don't expect the same portions you typically get at the seafood restaurant at the Raleigh state farmers market.

I had the peel and eat shrimp and they were delicious! Perfectly seasoned with a healthy portion. Locals Seafood is the best place to get your favorite seafood and Transfer Food Hall is a great vibe!

I asked today for BIG plate (I was starving), they offered for me Calabash Basket. I’m sorry, but 1 piece of white fish, 3 pieces bread and couple of shrimps, shredded cabbage can not cost 21$. It’s absolutely not big plate, and it’s absolutely not MAIN plate. It’s ok for appetiser. In neighboring cafes you can get BIG plates with raw fish for a better price.

Great customer service. The portions are a little small for the price and the smoked fish dip was amazing.

My coworker and I decided to give them a try today @ The Transfer Food Hall. Disappointed. $17.32 plus a tip for the the calabash basket. For 2 baby pieces of fish. A handful of baby shrimp. $17.32. Never again.

1st time here. Came on a Monday night. Casual atmosphere seated around the bar. Total Beach Vibe! Super nice and attentive staff. Fast service. I eat out multiple times a week and this is the FIRST restaurant (that I can recall) where the food came out STEAMING HOT!! And all of our meals came out at the same time!! Oh..and the appetizer actually came out as an appetizer and not 2 minutes before the food arrived (like other restaurants)!!! And the food was GREAT y'all !! Will I go back, you ask??? Let me save you a seat...because I'm already there 😀

Man, it was so cool on the inside that the three guys running the front are amazing. They greeted me and my wife with laughs and smiles. They all loved the matching shirts we had on. The first time in the food was amazing. we had the chargrilled oysters and deep fried oysters and a few margaritas and old fashions it was definitely a time and vibe um going back again

Yummy oysters 🦪 my favorite ones are Chargrilled. Very attentive staff, just a fun place all together. My husband was kinda impressed. Got the t-shirt for eating 4 spicy hot Half Moons

Our visit was sub-par last Saturday. We came before the dinner rush. They got my order wrong, and the salmon was way too salty. Trying to get the staff to fix the order was hard because no one would pay attention long enough for us to say there was a problem. We were not big fans of the seating layout either. They had too many barstools too close together. We won’t be back based on our experience.

Steak is good and appealing.. steamed oysters we're good. The service was positive and friendly. But I was more than a little disappointed in the king crab legs. I was enjoying what was a beautiful leg, ! It was ice cold. Scallops were okay but only cook to a minimal temperature as well. I like the idea that everybody is sitting at three bar stations. But the seats could be a lot more comfortable!

Amazing staff and amazing food! We tried the calamari, bacon wrapped scallops, raw and chargrilled oysters, salmon, and crème brûlée. It was all fantastic! My husband attempted their Quarter Moon challenge and didn’t quite make it, but they were so kind to give him a shirt anyways for his efforts. Will definitely return to try their Crawfish and Alligator Cheesecake.

Full Moon is one of my favorite restaurants. The atmosphere great along with the service. My go to appetizers are the Charred Oysters and Fried Oyster Casear salid. Recommend stopping be if your in the Cary NC area.

I love raw oysters and never passed up an opportunity to have a dozen or two shucked for me, often at the now-closed Locals in the Transfer Co. Food Hall. When the pandemic hit and my autoimmune disorder prevented me from enjoying eating in restaurants, I either had to learn to shuck my own or go without. Locals has remained my go-to for fresh oysters raised on the NC coast. I place my order online and pick up at the State Farmers Market. The Locals team are very knowledgeable about oysters in general and NC farmed oysters in particular when it come to briny-buttery balance, what variety are best raw, and how splintery the shells are when shucking. I really appreciate their expertise; making it possible for me to still have my oysters.

Bought Spanish mackerel this past weekend at the Raleigh Farmer's market and it was -phenomenal-. So fresh, easy to cook, and absolutely delicious. I cannot wait to go back and explore their other options! (For anyone curious, I used a salt, pepper, paprika and turmeric rub for the fillets, then a chimichurri sauce to finish after a pan fry. The fish held up against, and paired well with, the flavors of the sauce.)

Locals Seafood has, hands down, the best seafood in Raleigh! Incredibly fresh, regionally caught or sustainably farmed fish, shrimp, oysters, crab & more. Supports NC fishermen. Been buying their seafood for years & they have never dissappointed! Best to pre-order online.

We have subscribed to the weekly program for a couple of years now. We receive seasonal , locally caught seafood. We love it. I love the freshness, the seasonality and the great service every week when I pick up my fish on Thursdays. I love chatting with the gentleman on different kinds of seafood they got that week, cultural meaning of different fish, favorite parts of fish from other parts of the world. I'm proud to support the Local seafood!

Can always find fresh seasonal seafood that are caught sustainably off the coast of NC. I've met 2 of their staff, Steve & Kent, who have always been nice and offered great information & recommendations. They always try to give me a good selection (e.g. making sure the crab has both claws on). I had blue crabs last week and they were so delicious - sweeter than any other times I had blue crabs -- well at least as good as ones we caught ourselves in CT.

Purchased what I had purchased in the past. Dry scallops, not wet scallops which was what I got. You can't pan sear a wet scallop. Ruined a fine risotto with roasted red pepper and orange & lemon zest. Can't call to complain because lack of staff leaves them with no one to answer the phone. Was advised to come visit the location with concerns. BLEEP!!! I'm supposed to drive 40 miles each way and burn $15 of gas to tell them that they sold me inferior product. The positive outcome was that the raccoons seemed to enjoy the meal immensely. Needless to say I won't be going back.

I’m glad that there’s a business that helps support and vet local seafood businesses. Local’s makes eating responsibly easy. Their seafood shares are affordable and have generous portions. It has introduced me to cooking many fish and soft shell crab. Also, There are oysters are always delicious and well cleaned!

My large group went on a Wednesday when they have Live Jazz starting at 8... And while the band was lovely, the acoustics are horrible so not as enjoyable as we had hoped. The food was pretty good, nothing to complain about but nothing to rave about either. But our server, Darwin, was fabulous!

Went here with some friends to have cocktails before going to another restaurant for dinner. We were seated quickly, atmosphere was nice and the drinks were good. Service was a little slow, but I’ll chalk that up to this place just opened and they are getting their feet under them. Music inside was way too loud, hard to have a conversation. With that said, I will come back to try the food and have more drinks.

They are still working on getting the distillery operation ready so this review will focus on the dining/cocktail experience. I guess I went into this with the wrong expectations. Given the distillery and press coverage focused on food and cocktails I expected an atmosphere with more dark woods and leather vibe. The restaurant is very Mediterranean in aesthetics. Nice but caught me off guard. Also, the liquor selection behind the bar is limited, typical of any nice restaurant, not a cocktail forward establishment. When I asked the manager about that he said they plan on rotating stock over time. The cocktail selection is good and creative. Our waitress also knew the menu well and wasn't too shy to admit when she needed to check with the bartender on some specifics. I started with the Simon Senior which turned out to be our favorite cocktail of the night. It was presented beautifully and tasted as good as it looked. My wife tried the Dripping with Emeralds which was also good and quite strong but she preferred the Simon Senior. So much so that the waitress noticed and when the bar accidentally prepared an extra they presented it to her free of charge. Very nice. I then tried the Cleopatra Julep which was good but my favorite Julep is still the one I had at The Merchant. For food we shared the hummus which was excellent, smooth, creamy and very good pita. Also the tallow fries, swordfish and za'atar wings. These are small plates and the serving size was as expected. All the food was prepared and presented well. I have to call out the za'atar wings as my favorite though. These are the most tender chicken wings I have ever had. We will have to go back when the distillery is in action. They have exciting things planned.

Where do I even begin? I stopped into Boatman Spirits Co and walked out absolutely in love. Tucked into the ever-growing and vibrant Seaboard Station in Raleigh, this spot is an absolute must-visit. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Boatman Spirits is the kind of place that will keep you coming back. The vibe is a perfect blend of modern comfort and upscale charm, but it’s the food and drinks that truly shine. Specializing in craft cocktails and small plates, Boatman Spirits Co is killing it on every front. We ordered a spread that included the flank steak (which was so good I didn’t even get a photo before diving in), stuffed dates, hummus, fried halloumi, and a fattoush salad that honestly deserves its own spotlight. Every single item was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, fresh ingredients, bold spices, and thoughtful execution in every bite. Whether you're looking for a date night destination, a place to impress out-of-towners, or just a spot to treat yourself, Boatman Spirits Co delivers. I’ll definitely be back and next time, I’ll try to remember to take pictures before devouring the food!

We booked a reservation for a group of four to try out this new restaurant in Seaboard Station. While they have only been open a week or so, I can say that they are doing a great job in bringing something new to the Raleigh restaurant scene. We started with three appetizers- the hummus, fried halloumi bites and the za’atar chicken wings. The hummus was so smooth and delicious we immediately ordered more pita to go with it. The fried halloumi bites had a dipping sauce with a kick that everyone enjoyed and the wings were seasoned perfectly and were paired with the most delicious tzatziki dipping sauce. Next we ordered the lamb kafta burger, herb fries and the flank steak. The stand out here was the steak- it has the most delicious bordelais sauce and potatoes. We also tried some of their cocktails- the presentation was on point and each cocktail had such a unique flavor. The overall atmosphere of the restaurant is breathtaking the moment you step into the restaurant- from the tile to the ceilings it was truly beautiful. The only reason why I gave it four stars was due to the noise level, it is quite echoey and can be hard to heard but it wouldn’t deter me from going back. Our total bill for four was around $200 and we split all the food below and had 7 cocktails and 1 beer. The alcohol alone was over $100 so always remember drinks will run up your bill! In the upcoming weeks they plan on adding more to their food and drink menu so a second trip will be happening for sure!

My friend and I had an incredible time at boatman spirit. The food was amazing and the atmosphere is truly special. We will most definitely be back!

Boatman Spirits Co. is a relaxed, welcoming spot in Raleigh with a cozy vibe and flavorful Mediterranean-inspired food. It’s a great place to meet up with friends, grab a drink, and share a few small plates without feeling rushed or fancy. The menu has some real crowd-pleasers. The lamb kofta burger is juicy and well-seasoned, the kabobs have a nice char and bold flavor, and the shawarma wrap is packed with savory goodness. If you’re looking for something vegetarian, the falafel is crispy on the outside and soft inside—definitely worth trying. The cocktails are creative and easy to enjoy, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or making a night of it, Boatman Spirits Co. offers a laid-back experience with great food and good energy.