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The Best Restaurants and Bars in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill

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Overviews

January 24, 2018 by Ron Wen 8 Comments

Best Dining and Restaurants at Waverly Place in Cary

Sunset at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Sunset at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining

Over the years, Waverly Place has seen good and bad days. I used to live in this neighborhood and I never found much of a reason to visit this large, sunken strip plaza. But over the past two years, things have really picked up at Waverly Place. A new developer has spent a lot of money bringing in some high-end touches to the plaza such as water fountains, ambiance lighting and more. And the incoming restaurants have been a cut above your usual strip mall fare with a diverse group of eating choices. And also really nice patios given the strip mall setting!  So where to go when visiting Waverly Place in Cary?  Here are some of my favorites…

Enrigo Italian Bistro at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Enrigo Italian Bistro at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Rigatoni amatraciana at Enrigo Italian Bistro in Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Rigatoni amatraciana at Enrigo Italian Bistro in Cary- NC Triangle Dining

One of the first new restaurants here was the Italian classic, Enrigo Italian Bistro!  When they first opened up, I always found their food to be decent, just not amazing.  But a new chef has brought about a huge improvement in the food here. A recent lunch here showed off some great amatriciana pasta, apps and tiramisu.  Along with a great covered patio, Enrigo Italian Bistro has definitely stepped up its game and is a worthwhile meal at Waverly Place.

Taziki's at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Taziki’s at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Taziki's at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Taziki’s at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining

Next on the list is the relatively new, Taziki’s Cafe!  More of a quick casual, Greek-Mediterranean offering, they’ve got counter order and the lines to show that they must be doing something right!  Choose from salads, wraps and kebab plates, the food portions here are generous and fresh-tasting even though they may be a bit Americanized.  Still a good choice if you’re looking for something healthier and don’t want to pay for the full sit-down experience. Taziki’s usually pleases most people and for good reason.

Famous Toastery at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Famous Toastery at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Famous Toastery at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining
Famous Toastery at Waverly Place, Cary- NC Triangle Dining

A casual and country dining choice is the casual Toast Cafe which dishes out more classic American eats.  Think BLT’s, turkey sandwiches and egg salad!  But while the menu may look familiar, Toast Cafe does a nice twist on things.  Fresh sides and great service make it a good option for a quick but satisfying meal.  And they’ve got a side-patio complete with fountain, woohoo!

Shake Shack in Cary - nctriangledining.com
Shake Shack in Cary – nctriangledining.com
Shack burger at Shake Shack in Cary - nctriangledining.com
Shack burger at Shake Shack in Cary – nctriangledining.com

One brand new option at Waverly Place for dining is Shake Shack!  This chain of fast-casual grills offers up outstanding hamburgers, crinkle fries and shakes. While the price is a bit high for a burger joint, the quality is evident in every bite of your meal.  Don’t miss out on the classic Shack burger along with their great chicken sandwich. Great for families, Shake Shack has a great view of the Waverly Place green given its central location.

Next on the list is Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop which is a small chain based out of the mid-Atlantic region. Highlights for me include their Bobbie (pulled turkey, cranberry, stuffing) and cheesesteak sandwiches. A casual and tasty spot for a quick meal.

View of Waverly Place in Cary- NC Triangle Dining
View of Waverly Place in Cary- NC Triangle Dining

So Waverly Place you’re all growed up!  In addition to the above restaurant there’s also a Barberitos (Mexican), Menchie’s (frozen yogurt) and a soon to come Cinebistro in 2015.  So walk around, window-shop, enjoy the fountains and green space along with the good dining options here.  Waverly Place is getting better each month, bring the family along for a relaxing visit…

 

Great Restaurants, Dining and Food at Waverly Place in Cary

Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop (Hoagies)

Chicken Salad Chick (Southern)

Enrigo Italian Bistro (Italian)

Tazikis (Greek, Mediterranean)

Famous Toastery (American, Sandwiches)

Gonza Tacos y Tequila (Mexican)

Mod Pizza (Pizza)

Shake Shack (Burgers)

Tasu Asian Bistro (Japanese, Thai)

Waverly Place Directory

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Filed Under: Cary, Local Information, Overviews Tagged With: Family Friendly Restaurants

July 22, 2017 by Ron Wen

Maxing Out Your Movies: An Overview of the Best Movie Theaters & Cinemas in the Triangle

Wish my pictures were sharper but pretty much all movie theaters are dark!

In the battle for your movie dollar, the Triangle has been popping! Higher end theaters with stadium seating and upgraded food menus are upping the ante for movie-watching in the Triangle. And who can blame them given the great home theater set-ups many of us have at home? Without making the cinema experience stellar, we would never leave our family rooms, amiright? But in the summer heat, there’s often nothing better than catching the latest flick in a deluxe movie theater with all the bells and whistles. I’ve been able to try most of the super cinemas in the area, here’s my take on what you get for your movie-watching dollar at each one!

Front of IMAX Theatre at Marbles in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Front of IMAX Theatre at Marbles in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining

First up is the classic IMAX Theatre at Marbles in Raleigh! For a while, IMAX was the only real luxe movie-watching experience in the Triangle. From the enormous screen (70′ by 52′) to the seat-shaking Dolby sound system pumping out 24,000 watts of sonic thunder, the IMAX still rocks it out for the right movies. If you’ve got a great 3-D movie with top notch cinematography and sound, IMAX will blow you away. I’ve seen Inception, Gravity and Avatar at the IMAX and it truly feels as if you’re IN the movie. The stadium seating gives you an unfettered view of all the action, the only bad seats are the 3 or 4 rows up front. The seats, while comfortable, are your more typical seats with drop-down arm-rests and cup-holders.

Seating for IMAX Theatre at Marbles in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Seating for IMAX Theatre at Marbles in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Stellar screen and sound system for IMAX Theatre at Marbles in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Stellar screen and sound system for IMAX Theatre at Marbles in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining

Tickets for IMAX are $11 (2-D) and up which isn’t bad at all given the screen size. Concessions are reasonably priced ($3 to $7) but very basic and limited in selection (candy, popcorn, soft drinks, wine-beer). Note that you also can NOT choose your seat at IMAX Raleigh which means you’ll have to queue up early to ensure great seats for the hottest movies. What you’ll give up here at IMAX Raleigh is the comfy leather recliners and expanded food-drink menu. But still, even with all the less modern movie theater operations here at IMAX, it delivers a stellar movie-watching experience for the right movies. Choose wisely and you’ll be blown away by whats on-screen at IMAX Theatre at Marbles.

Front of Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Front of Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh – nctriangledining.com
Bright lobby at Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Bright lobby at Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

The newest entry in the super movie theater list is the Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh which just opened in April of 2018. Located in E. Raleigh, downtown Oak City residents finally now have an option for a movie with reserved seating! Inside Alamo Drafthouse it feels like a devotional to the cinematic and movie experience. You’ll find a bar up front and the Video Vortex (video rental store) decked out in pink neon.  The Video Vortex rents out movies for free that range across the classic genres and is built for movie buffs. Behind the Alamo Drafthouse bar is a slew of beer taps for you beer lovers, over 30 taps! Food is served inside the theater and throughout the movie with an assortment of apps, salads, pizzas, burgers, hot dogs and sandwiches from $7 to $15. The menu is squarely in the middle in terms of assortment, below Cinebistro and above the Raleigh Grande.

Chicken meatballs with garlic bread at Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Chicken meatballs with garlic bread at Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

Inside the Alamo Drafthouse theater you’ll find soft, plush leather recliners with motorized foot-rests. The seats are individual seats without movable arm-rests and while the rows are not stadium-style, there’s plenty of rise between the rows. Each recliner has a fixed table with lighting underneath. You’ll need the light to fill out your menu requests which will be handled by the wait-staff. I tried out a tasty cast-iron skillet of chicken meatballs with garlic bread which were perfect for a late night snack.

Theater seating at Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Theater seating at Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

The screen for my movie was excellent with a decent sound-system, I’ll have to get back for a more challenging movie to see what they can really do. Also note that Alamo Drafthouse has a strict, no texting, no talking during the movie policy and will toss you out after a warning if people complain. You have been warned, movie-talkers! Overall I was pretty impressed with Alamo Drafthouse, it reminds me of a more casual Cinebistro with decent eats and screens along with lower prices ($8 to $11.50 for 2-D tickets).

Lobby at Cinebistro Wavery Place in Cary - NC Triangle Dining
Lobby at CMX Cinebistro Wavery Place in Cary – NC Triangle Dining
Lobster roll at Cinebistro Wavery Place in Cary - NC Triangle Dining
Lobster roll at CMX Cinebistro Wavery Place in Cary – NC Triangle Dining

Next up on my super cinema list is Cinebistro at Waverly Place in Cary! Cinebistro was the first of the newer luxe movie theaters in the area, bringing together food, drink and the show all in one venue. And it’s still one of the best! With a full bar and lobby at the entrance, you know you’re in for a special experience. Billed as dinner and a movie, you show up early for your movie, order and are served in the theater for your meal. And the food here at Cinebistro is quite good, my faves include the cheesesteak sandwich and lobster sliders. Once the movie starts, you’ll have to self-serve your dishes and any additional drinks-eats at Cinebistro.

Seating at Cinebistro Wavery Place in Cary - NC Triangle Dining
Seating at CMX Cinebistro Wavery Place in Cary – NC Triangle Dining

Seating at Cinebistro is luxurious, leather recliner seating with motorized foot-rests that allow you to kick back to enjoy the movie! While Cinebistro does not have stadium style seating, you do recline back to get a good view of the excellent raised screens. Cinebistro tickets can be purchased online through Fandango and range from $13.50 to $16. Note that after 6pm, Cinebistro is 21 and over. But I can tell you for sure that Cinebistro hits the trifecta of great food, great screens and great seating. The only major drawback is the price, you can easily drop $50 here on popcorn and food, ouch. For more details, check out my full review of Cinebistro in Cary.

The Raleigh Grande Theater – NC Triangle Dining
The Raleigh Grande Theater - NC Triangle Dining
The Raleigh Grande Theater – NC Triangle Dining

Heading up a bit further north is the Raleigh Grande! For years, the Raleigh Grande was a traditional movie theater but a renovation in 2016 brought stadium type seating and an expanded food menu. Inside, not only does the Raleigh Grande have tiered stadium style seating but also the same motorized recliners found at Cinebistro. What is nice is that the Raleigh Grande provides a more private viewing experience with walls behind each row of seats, creating some real separation.

Seating at the Raleigh Grande Theater - NC Triangle Dining
Seating at the Raleigh Grande Theater – NC Triangle Dining

For food you have your standard popcorn and soft drinks but the expanded theater menu includes sandwiches, hot dogs, chicken tenders, pizza and more! If you’re ordering hot food, they’ll give you a buzzer to bring to the theater and once it goes off, meet your server in the hallway outside your theater to get your food! The Raleigh Grande also has decent draft beer and wines available here for your movie. I’ve tried out just a handful of items off their menu but I can tell you that they do a solid chicken tenders plate for $7 along with some truffle fries for $4.

Chicken tenders at the Raleigh Grande Theater - NC Triangle Dining
Chicken tenders at the Raleigh Grande Theater – NC Triangle Dining

And tickets at the Raleigh Grande have stayed an affordable $9.50 so you won’t break the bank here on either tickets or food. I’ve managed to catch a couple of movies here and if your focus is more on the movie than the food, you can’t go wrong at the Raleigh Grande. While the food is more garden variety, higher end movie-theater fare, the screens and movie-watching experience more than make up for that slight miss. Plus you’ve got the Lynnwood Brewing Concern right across the street if you’re hungry!

 

Paragon Theaters Parkside in Cary - nctriangledining.com
Paragon Theaters Parkside in Cary – nctriangledining.com
Bowling alley at Paragon Theaters Parkside in Cary - nctriangledining.com
Bowling alley at Paragon Theaters Parkside in Cary – nctriangledining.com

Now (Paragon Theaters Parkside – Extreme as of December 2021) let’s head back down to Cary and the new Paragon Theaters Parkside! This bowling alley and cinema presents another spin on the deluxe movie theatre experience. Up front and to the right you’ll find the bowling alley lit up in neon. Above the bowling alley area is an arcade with some fun games like Pop-a-Shot, skee-ball and more. And to the left, you’ve got your luxe movie theaters!

Stadium seating at Paragon Theaters Parkside in Cary - nctriangledining.com
Stadium seating at Paragon Theaters Parkside in Cary – nctriangledining.com

The food menu here is upgraded theater food but it’s not bad at all! I ordered up a ridiculous plate of tater tots which was a ginormous, heaping mound of crisp tots covered with two types of cheese sauce, bacon, and scallions, delicious! But I could have fed a family of four off these tots. The rest of the menu runs the gamut of wings, tacos, sandwiches, burgers and entrees, plenty good but more casual than Cinebistro. With ticket prices in the $12 to $15 range, Frank Theatres CineBowl & Grille is an excellent option if you’re looking for food AND a movie.

Front of Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill - NC Triangle Dining
Front of Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill – NC Triangle Dining

And finally, our last super theater: Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill. Located off of S. Estes Drive on the west side of University Place, Silverspot mixes things up a bit compared to the previous four super cinemas! Silverspot offers the upscale Trilogy Restaurant at the front of the cinema for a pre-show dinner or take-out box for in-theater dining. If that doesn’t float your boat, you can grab some eats at the more standard concessions area. I’ve done a media dinner at Trilogy Restaurant and it is certainly the highest-end food available if you dine in. Check out my full review here!

Concessions at Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill - NC Triangle Dining
Concessions at Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill – NC Triangle Dining

Silverspot is pretty modern and offers ticket kiosks on a wall to grab your seat if you don’t order your ticket online.  Once you get your eats, move on into the movie theater section where you’ll find yourself in a luxe seating area but different from the other options on this list. Silverspot offers plush leather seating in a stadium (tiered) setting BUT the seats are not motorized and don’t offer foot-rests. The front row does have leather ottomans available to kick up your feet but you won’t be able to do that for the back rows.

Seating at Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill - NC Triangle Dining
Seating at Silverspot Cinema in Chapel Hill – NC Triangle Dining

So there you go! A quick trip and overview through most of the top movie theaters in the area. What’s really interesting is that they all offer slightly different food, seating options and movie watching experiences. So choose wisely based upon your needs, location and interests. Some days I’m in more of a dining mood and want the food. Other times it’s all about the movie watching experience. But I’m pretty certain that one of these deluxe, blinged out movie theatres will suit you fine!

IMAX Theatre at Marbles

201 E Hargett Street

Raleigh, NC 27601

 

Alamo Drafthouse Raleigh

2116-D, New Bern Avenue

Raleigh, NC 27610

 

Raleigh Grande

4840 Grove Barton Road

Raleigh, NC 27613

Paragon Theaters Parkside – Extreme

Parkside Town Commons

1140 Parkside Main Street

Cary, NC 27519

 

CMX Cinebistro, Waverly Place

525 New Waverly Place 

Cary, NC 27518

 

Silverspot Cinema

201 S Estes Dr #100

Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Filed Under: Activities, Cary, Chapel Hill, Overviews, Raleigh

December 11, 2016 by Ron Wen 1 Comment

Best Restaurants Near NC State University – NCSU

NC State's Talley Student Center in Raleigh - NC Triangle Dining
NC State’s Talley Student Center in Raleigh – NC Triangle Dining

If your kid is going to school at NC State or you just need to find a bite near campus, choosing a good restaurant option may be a bit tricky. Like any college area, the restaurants tend to be inexpensive and not so great given the typical student budget. But there are some decent options if you know where to look. And they tend to be the newer spots in Wolfpack territory!

The primary NC State campus is loosely bound by Hillsborough Street and Western Boulevard to the north. And Gorman Street along with Pullen Road to the west and east. And then finally a newer part of campus intersected by Avent Ferry and Centennial Parkway to the south. In the NC State neighborhood you’ll find old-school favorites like Amedeos, Baja Burrito, Jade Garden, Subconscious, Sammy’s Tap and Grill, Ruckus Pizza…  But my favorites are different and run the range from Chinese to Mexican, pizza and more. Most of these better dining choices are on the north side of campus and are a bit of a ride or walk. But totally worth it if you want to get away from casual college eats! Click on the restaurant link to get the full details…

 

Best Restaurants and Dining Near NC State University – NCSU

  • David’s Dumpling and Noodle Bar (Chinese) – Tasty Chinese and Asian eats in a lovely and spacious dining room. Inexpensive and reasonably priced for lunch and dinner.
  • Gonza Tacos y Tequila (Mexican) – Fantastic interior and decor with solid Mexican eats: tacos, enchiladas, guacamole and more. A bit pricier than usual Mexican options but worthwhile.
  • NC Seafood Restaurant at the State Farmer’s Market (Seafood) – Large portions of fried and broiled NC seafood on picnic tables. Stop in after a visit to the Farmer’s market!
  • Neomonde (Lebanese) – A Raleigh classic serving up fresh Mediterranean eats ranging from salads, kabobs to pita sandwiches, casual setting.
  • Pisco Mar (S. American) – A newer, restaurant specializing in S. American cuisine: empanadas, lomo saltado, ceviche and more.
  • Players Retreat (American) – The long-time NC State meeting spot for subs, American comfort food and an amazing whiskey selection. Sit on the patio with friends in the summer.
  • so*ca (Latin American) – An upscale, fusion Latino restaurant offering up great cocktails, small plates and desserts. A bit dress with fantastic covered patio.
  • Sushi Nine (Sushi, Thai) – A basic spot for sushi, hibachi, Thai cuisine and more. Large private lot and conveniently located near PNC Arena.
  • Tazza Kitchen (Small plates) – A more upscale restaurant serving up European oven-fired small plates and pizzas! Great for smaller groups.
  • Trophy Pizza (Beer, pizza) – Fantastic beer and artisanal pizzas in a casual setting. Enjoy their patio when the weather is warmer, sometimes tough to get a seat.
  • Tupelo Honey Cafe (Southern) – An Asheville favorite in Raleigh. Southern classics with a twist, offers brunch, lunch and dinner throughout the week.

And if you’re willing to travel further afoot, head on further north to Cameron Village or further east to Raleigh’s Warehouse District where you’ll find even better dining options. Bon appetit!

David's Dumpling and Noodle Bar
David’s Dumpling and Noodle Bar
Roti at David's Dumpling and Noodle Bar
Roti at David’s Dumpling and Noodle Bar
Cool decor at Gonza Tacos y Tequila
Cool decor at Gonza Tacos y Tequila
Tacos at Gonza Tacos y Tequila
Tacos at Gonza Tacos y Tequila
NC Seafood Market Restaurant
NC Seafood Market Restaurant
Seafood platter at NC Seafood Restaurant
Seafood platter at NC Seafood Restaurant
Front of Neomonde
Front of Neomonde
Fresh hummus at Neomonde
Fresh hummus at Neomonde
Kebabs at Neomonde
Kebabs at Neomonde
Lomo saltado at PIsco Mar
Lomo saltado at PIsco Mar
Front of Players Retreat
Front of Players Retreat
Dining room at Players Retreat
Dining room at Players Retreat
Entrance at soca
Entrance at soca
Crab mofongo at soca
Crab mofongo at soca
Sushi rolls at Sushi Nine
Sushi rolls at Sushi Nine
Pad thai at Sushi Nine
Pad thai at Sushi Nine
Sausage-honey pizza at Tazza Kitchen
Sausage-honey pizza at Tazza Kitchen
Trophy Brewing and Pizza
Trophy Brewing and Pizza
Daredevil pizza at Trophy Brewing
Daredevil pizza at Trophy Brewing
Dining room at Tupelo Honey Cafe
Dining room at Tupelo Honey Cafe
Shrimp and grits at Tupelo Honey Cafe
Shrimp and grits at Tupelo Honey Cafe

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Filed Under: NoRSS, Overviews, Raleigh, Restaurant & Bar Reviews Tagged With: NC State Restaurants

September 12, 2020 by Ron Wen

It’s Good Eating at the Morgan Street Food Hall

Neon sign at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Neon sign at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

While food halls in the Triangle seem to be pretty trendy right now, it was the Morgan Street Food Hall that started it all! Located in the popular Raleigh Warehouse District, the Morgan Street Food Hall is conveniently located off of Morgan Street and near the soon to be Pendo Headquarters. If you stop in at the Morgan Street Food Hall you’ll have about 18 different food choices along with a lively indoors/outdoors bar. And from what I’ve seen, it’s a good mix of popular stand-bys along with some newer dining options along with some axe-throwing. But color me impressed overall! From dinner to dessert, you’ll probably find something you like here!

Interior of Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Interior of Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

I’d recommend visiting in off-hours (any time outside of 11:30 to 1:30 and 5:30 to 7:30pm) since the place is super popular right now. Parking is tough in the area, but there is some street parking along with some parking structures in this popular district. After I’m able to visit a restaurant, I’ll give it a star rating and short description. It’s a tough job but somebody has gotta do it, I’ve included menus when available to help you get a better understanding of prices and food options at the Morgan Street Food Hall! And if you’re curious about the Transfer Co. Food Hall on the other side of town, details here!


Aunt Betty’s Gin and Absinthe Bar

Aunt Bettys Gin and Absinthe Bar at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Aunt Betty’s Gin and Absinthe Bar: 4 1/2 Stars

A great-looking speak-easy tucked behind a plain door on Morgan Street. Fun cocktails and decor for some casual conversation and drink!


Bad Cat Coffee Co.

Bad Cat Coffee at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Bad Cat Coffee Co. Menu


Bella’s Wood Fired Pizza & Tapas

Bella's Wood-fired Pizza at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Bella’s Wood Fired Pizza & Tapas Menu


Big League Waffles and Scoops

Big League Waffles and Scoops at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Big League Waffles and Scoops Menu


Boba Brew at Morgan Street Food Hall

Boba Brew at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Boba Brew at Morgan Street Food Hall Menu


Buena Papa Fry Bar

Buena Papa Fry Bar at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com


Chopsticks & Forks

Chopsticks & Forks menu


Cousins Maine Lobster

Cousins Maine Lobster at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Cousins Maine Lobster menu:  4 Stars

The food truck turned food stall has done a great job here with its lobster rolls. In fact, it may even be better eating their food indoors with AC so a big thumbs-up from me!


Cow Bar

Cow Bar at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Cow Bar menu: 4 and 1/2 stars

A fun and delicious spot for a decadent and flavor-filled burger! Great selection of fries as a side, choose from Original, Italiano and Truffle. Just be aware that service can be a bit uneven and slow.


Curry in a Hurry

Curry in a Hurry at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Curry in a Hurry Menu


Epic Axe

Epic Axe at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com


Iyla’s Southern Kitchen

Iyla's Southern Kitchen at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Iyla’s Southern Kitchen Menu

Iyla's Southern Kitchen Menu, March 2022
Iyla’s Southern Kitchen Menu, March 2022

KupKake Fairy

KupKake Fairy Menu

The KupKake Fairy Menu, March 2022
The KupKake Fairy Menu, March 2022

Makus Empanadas

Makus Empanadas menu: 3 1/2 Stars

A pretty quick meal of empanandas and S. American basics (black beans, rice, salad) will keep you happy here. Love the variety of baked empanadas here, they are light and crunchy but not super filling.


Oak City Fish & Chips

Oak City Fish & Chips at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Oak City Fish & Chips Menu: 2 1/2 Stars

Unfortunately, Oak City Fish & Chips has some serial service issues even with such a small menu. Running out of seafood items on the menu, slow cook times, lack of condiments, the staff needs better training and more kitchen help. The food is decent once you get it but not worth the stress.


Opa! Raleigh

Opa! Raleigh Menu


Primal Cuts

Primal Cuts at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Primal Cuts menu


Raleigh Popsicle Co.


Raleigh Raw

Raleigh Raw Menu

Raleigh Raw – Coffee Lattes
Raleigh Raw – Juices
Raleigh Raw – Poke bowls
Raleigh Raw – Smoothies

The Arbor and Garden Bar

The Arbor and Garden Bar: 3 1/2 Stars

A decent bar with reasonable prices but service has been slow the handful of times I have been here, even in off-hours. Fingers crossed they get better with time and experience.


The Bowls

The Bowls at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

The Bowls menu: 4 Stars

A pan-Asian eatery offering rice bowls, poke bowls and small plates with Japanese, Chinese and Korean flavors. A good deal for the money, don’t miss the bulgogi egg rolls!


The Katsu

The Katsu Menu


Wicked Taco

Wicked Tacos at Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com

Wicked Tacos Menu


YoHo Hibachi & Sushi Burrito

Yoho Asian Bistro Menu


Morgan Street Food Hall

411 W Morgan Street

Raleigh, NC 27603

919.307.4481

Location on Google maps

Filed Under: Overviews, Raleigh Tagged With: Date Restaurants, Food Hall, Warehouse District Restaurants

June 30, 2018 by Ron Wen 4 Comments

Eating Outdoors in Raleigh – The Best Patios and Rooftops in Raleigh

Shady patio at Mellow Mushroom Raleigh, NC Triangle Dining
Shady patio at Mellow Mushroom Raleigh, NC Triangle Dining

As we prepare to head into summer after one of the most challenging years in memory, where should you go for some fresh air, sunshine (or stars) and a meal? In the time of COVID, eating outdoors is not only a personal choice but health-related, too. And the one positive we can take out of this pandemic is a lot more options when it comes to outdoors dining. So where to go in Raleigh for a great outdoor meal or beer? There are lots of choices ranging from patios, sidewalks and even rooftops. Here are some great dining options to go au natural with your meal…

Humble Pie patio in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Humble Pie patio in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining

One of my favorite patio’s in downtown Raleigh is at Humble Pie in the Warehouse District. While inside Humble Pie it feels hip and urban, the patio is a whole different ball game. A large wooden deck with covered tables and a tiki bar, Humble Pie makes for a great way to start your weekend! Humble Pie specializes in small plates and big flavors. Try their spinach tart with goat cheese and parmesan or maybe their grilled andouille sausage with jalapeno bread pudding, yum! And on Sunday they do a nice brunch complete with biscuits and sausage gravy, shrimp n grits and of course the ever-popular bloody mary. Humble Pie is a great spot for a larger group, service is solid and there’s plenty of space to stretch out in.

Front of Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Front of Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com
Patio at Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Patio at Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

If you’re looking for a patio AND a view, look no further then the new Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing. Located in the old Boynton Bridge Brewpub, Wye Hill has an upgraded patio with that same stellar view of the Oak City skyline but adds a nicely curated menu of Southern eats. Add in the beer brewed onsite and you’re in for a special evening!

Patio at Whiskey Kitchen in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Patio at Whiskey Kitchen in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining

Whiskey Kitchen is a classic in downtown Raleigh and I love, love, love the space. While the bar-restaurant is plenty large for a ton of people, I’d just as readily sit out on their patio under the lights. Enjoy their small menu of artisanal Southern eats and a cocktail. Watch the people go by on this busy corner. Tons of fun, lots of charm and great eats for Whiskey Kitchen and it’s outdoors seating.

Rooftop patio at the Hibernian in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Rooftop patio at the Hibernian in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Sidewalk seating at the Hibernian in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Sidewalk seating at the Hibernian in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining

The tried and true Hibernian Pub was renovated at the end of 2013 and sports both its old sidewalk seating along with a beautiful rooftop patio! Either spot is great for people-watching and a pint of Guinness. On Friday and Saturday nights, Glenwood South will be crushed with people so be aware!

Sidewalk seating at Tin Roof in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Sidewalk seating at Tin Roof in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com
Patio seating at Tin Roof in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Patio seating at Tin Roof in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

Across the street from the Hibernian is the new country-western bar, Tin Roof! Serving up beer, bar eats and a delectable patio on the second floor. They’ve also got indoor seating by the windows with a great street view. Enjoy some live music and tater tots to get your evening started.

TheStationRaleigh-Front

Out in the Oakwood neighborhood is the Station at Person Street! With an outdoor bar and fireplaces, the huge patio at the Station is probably its key feature.  With a menu of pub food and small list of beers, it’s an easy place to hang out for some conversation and quick eats.  And the dog-friendly nature of the space means you can enjoy it with your furry friend, score!

Patio at Barcelona Wine Bar in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Patio at Barcelona Wine Bar in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

Moving on to a Mediterranean theme, the Barcelona Wine Bar is one of my favorite dining options in Raleigh and just so happens to have a pretty cool patio in addition to their bar and dining room. The primary patio is a garden setting tucked in front of the restaurant but due to COVID, they have expanded to the larger, Dillon patio beyond the restaurant. Not sure if this situation will stay the same over the course of 2021 but take full advantage of it, right now!

Beautiful rooftop patio at the new Taverna Agora, Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Beautiful rooftop patio at the new Taverna Agora, Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining

The Taverna Agora on Hillsborough Street dishes out great Greek food along with sunshine and fresh air. Their rooftop patio is wonderfully decorated in a garden setting and looks really inviting. I’ve done several meals up here and highly recommend Taverna Agora’s brunch. The cooler weather for brunch just makes for a fabulous dining experience.

Beautiful patio at Mulino Italian Kitchen in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Beautiful patio at Mulino Italian Kitchen in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com
Outdoor bar at Mulino Italian Kitchen in Raleigh - nctriangledining.com
Outdoor bar at Mulino Italian Kitchen in Raleigh – nctriangledining.com

In a category all of its own is the expansive patio at Mulino Italian Kitchen! Grab dinner by the reflecting pool or a cocktail at the outdoor bar on a nice evening and you’ll be in heaven. Their menu is accessible Italian eats and they offer up a great selection of wines and cocktails if you want to just drink. On Fridays and Saturdays you may need a reservation so beware!

Rooftop patio at Raleigh Times Bar - NC Triangle Dining
Rooftop patio at Raleigh Times Bar – NC Triangle Dining

Over at Hargett and Wilmington you’ll find the roof-top patio for the classic, Raleigh Times Bar! Known for its pub food and great beer selection, the Raleigh Times has expanded down the block and upstairs to give you an option for some fresh air dining. Enjoy the nice view of Hargett and Wilmington with a side of cheese fries…

Flying Saucer patio in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining
Flying Saucer patio in Raleigh- NC Triangle Dining

For other outdoors eating and drinking in the Triangle, definitely check out the Top of the Hill, Mellow Mushroom, Moonlight Pizza, the Flying Saucer and Milltown. And check out my posts for other Triangle areas:  Outdoors Dining in Durham for the Bull City and Chapel Hill-Carrboro!

Given the choice I’m always outdoors when it comes to a sit-down meal. And with all this great weather in North Carolina it’s hard not to get excited about eating outside. Happiness is some sunshine, blue skies, good company and great food! Just drop those Ray-Ban’s down, it’s time for a beer and bon appetit!

 

Great Outdoor Patios and Dining in the Triangle!

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Barcelona Wine Bar– Raleigh

Flying Saucer- Raleigh

Humble Pie– Raleigh

Hibernian Pub– Raleigh

Mellow Mushroom- Raleigh

Raleigh Times Bar- Raleigh

The Station at Person Street– Raleigh

Taverna Agora– Raleigh

Tin Roof– Raleigh

Whiskey Kitchen- Raleigh

Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing- Raleigh

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Filed Under: Overviews, Raleigh, Restaurant & Bar Reviews Tagged With: Patio

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