Award-winning chefs and inventive cuisine abound in the Triangle area of North Carolina. In this dining guide, you’ll find a wide range of sure-to-be favorites, from comfort food classics to standout sushi, and everything in between. Enjoy, and don’t forget to tell them The Scout Guide sent you!

CARY

Herons at The Umstead (100 Woodland Pond Drive). Refined American cuisine inspired by art and nature, located inside of the Umstead Hotel. Instagram

RALEIGH

Poole’s Diner (426 South McDowell Street). Go early to sip on a fun drink while you wait for the yummiest comfort food. While your at it, add Poole’s sister restaurants to your must dine at list: Death & Taxes, Beasley’s Chicken & Honey, and Pooleside Pies. Instagram

Bida Manda (222 South Blount Street). A hip gathering place, celebrating foods from the culture of Laos. Get the pork belly soup, trust us. Instagram

Brewery Bhavana (218 South Blount Street). Craft beer, dim sum, books, and flowers—what more could you ask for? Instagram

Hummingbird (1053 East Whitaker Mill Road). Amazing cocktails, a fun bar, New Orleans inspired cuisine, and the most wonderful Sunday brunch. Instagram

Kandy Apples by K (6320 Capital Boulevard #107). The best candy apple you will ever eat. Ask them to slice your apple for you for easy sharing. Instagram

DURHAM

Counting House (111 Corcoran Street). Creative spins on typical American fare. We love the New York Strip. (located in the 21c Hotel). Instagram

Mateo Tapas (109 West Chapel Hill Street). A chic, contemporary spot with wonderful southern inspired tapas and an extensive wine list. Instagram

M Sushi (311 Holland Street) A minimalist sushi bar committed to the freshest ingredients. This is the best sushi in the Triangle.  

Queen Burger (359 Blackwell Street #125). A fabulous burger and cocktail dive bar, featuring good vibes and great food. Instagram

M Kokko (311 Holland Street Suite B). A small, cozy atmosphere with the most delicious Korean BBQ.

NuvoTaco (2512 University Drive). This casual Mexican eatery offers the city’s best margaritas. Instagram

Krill (506 Ramseur Street). A vibrant atmosphere with a funky Southeast Asian menu (don’t skip out on the sake). Instagram 

The Durham Hotel (315 East Chapel Hill Street). Great spot for breakfast or lunch located in a cool, spacious lobby. Cocktails at the rooftop bar are exceptional. Instagram

Bar Virgile (105 South Mangum Street). A cozy, industrial bar offering crafted food and beverages. The fried oysters are a must. Instagram

NanaSteak (345 Blackwell Street). Go to spot for the most delicious steak, upscale dining at its finest. Instagram

Pizzeria Toro (105 East Chapel Hill Street). This is pizza done right. Seasonal wood-fired pizza right in downtown Durham. Instagram

CHAPEL HILL

Merritt’s Store & Grill (1009 South Columbia Street). Known for its famous, life-changing BLT’s. Simply the best. Instagram 

Vimala’s Curryblossom Cafe (431 West Franklin Street #415). Tasty Indian cuisine made with delicious, healthy, and local ingredients. We recommend an order of the dosas. Instagram

Lantern (423 West Franklin Street). Asian fare crafted with fresh local ingredients. The bar in the back is divine. Instagram

Al’s Burger Shack (516 West Franklin Street). Nothing better than a perfectly made burger and some crispy crinkle cut fries. Instagram

Hawthorne & Wood (3140 Environ Way). A neighborhood restaurant offering local & global fine dining, unique cocktails, and an extensive wine list. Instagram 

The Crunkleton (320 West Franklin Street). A vintage cocktail bar lined inside with over 500+ spirits. Instagram

Crossroads (211 Pittsboro Street). Located at the Carolina Inn hotel, this gorgeous restaurant serves modern twists on southern fare. Instagram

Kipos Greek Taverna (800 East Franklin Street #16). Elevated Greek cuisine offering brunch, lunch, and dinner. Save room for one of the many traditional dessert options. Instagram

PITTSBORO

Roost Beer Garden (2000 Fearrington Village Center). A wood-fired pizza bar offering local beer and wine by the glass. Enjoy the wonderful outdoor patio space!

The Belted Goat (210 Market Street). A casual dining spot great for breakfast or lunch. Don’t skip on the delicious coffee and homemade pastries.

For additional recommendations for what to do, see, and experience in the Triangle area, browse The Shopping Guide, and The Lodging Guide, browse or buy a copy of The Scout Guide Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and follow TSG Triangle on Instagram.