6 North Carolina Restaurants Locals Recommend And 6 They Can’t Get Enough Of

North Carolina’s culinary scene is a tapestry, woven with threads of Southern tradition, fresh coastal flavors, innovative farm-to-table concepts, and global influences.

From the mountains to the coast, this state is a paradise for food lovers. But navigating this delicious landscape can be overwhelming. How do you find those truly special places – the ones that embody the heart and soul of local dining?

That’s where the wisdom of locals comes in.

1. Buena Vista Bar & Grill

Nestled in Asheville’s vibrant food landscape, Buena Vista Bar & Grill captures the essence of mountain cuisine with a modern twist. The rustic-chic interior welcomes diners with warm wooden accents and panoramic views.

Locals rave about their farm-to-table approach, featuring seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms. Their signature trout dish, prepared with brown butter and local herbs, perfectly represents the region’s culinary identity.

2. Midwood Smokehouse

Smoke billows from the pit at Midwood Smokehouse, where Carolina barbecue traditions are honored daily. The tantalizing aroma of slow-smoked meats greets you before you even enter the door.

What sets this Charlotte institution apart is their commitment to authentic wood-smoking techniques. No gas or electric shortcuts here! Their pulled pork sandwich, topped with tangy vinegar-based sauce, has converted even the most dedicated Texas-style barbecue fans.

3. Poole’s Downtown Diner

Housed in an original 1940s diner, Poole’s marries nostalgic charm with contemporary culinary excellence. The red leather banquettes and curved counter transport diners to another era while the food remains firmly progressive.

Chef Ashley Christensen’s menu changes daily, written on chalkboards that hang throughout the space. One constant remains: the legendary macaroni au gratin, a decadent blend of cheeses that locals consider worth every calorie and minute of the typical wait.

4. The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

“Burgushi” might sound like a culinary experiment gone wrong, but Charlotte’s The Cowfish proves this unexpected pairing works brilliantly. This playful eatery breaks all the rules by combining two beloved food traditions.

Sushi rolls wrapped in burger components or burgers topped with sushi elements create flavor combinations you never knew you needed. The vibrant, colorful atmosphere matches the creative menu. Kids especially love the interactive tables and quirky fish tanks throughout the restaurant.

5. Mama Ricotta’s

Family recipes passed down through generations form the heart of Mama Ricotta’s menu. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes everyone feel like they’ve been invited to an Italian grandmother’s Sunday dinner.

Hand-rolled pasta and wood-fired pizzas showcase traditional techniques rarely found outside Italy. Their penne alla vodka, creamy with just the right kick of spice, has locals booking tables weeks in advance. Don’t skip the house-made focaccia – it’s the perfect vehicle for soaking up every last drop of sauce.

6. The Flying Biscuit Café

Morning sunshine streams through colorful stained glass at The Flying Biscuit, where breakfast is served all day. The whimsical décor – bright orange walls and local artwork – awakens senses before the first sip of coffee.

Their namesake biscuits achieve the impossible: simultaneously fluffy and substantial, sweet and savory. Topped with their cranberry apple butter, these heavenly creations have inspired a loyal following. Southern classics like shrimp and grits get thoughtful updates while maintaining their soul-satisfying essence.

7. Lexington Barbecue

Smoke has been rising from the pits at Lexington Barbecue since 1962, making it a true North Carolina landmark. Locals don’t call it by its official name – it’s simply “The Monk” after founder Wayne Monk.

This temple of Western-style NC barbecue specializes in pork shoulders smoked over hickory coals. The distinctive red slaw – made with ketchup instead of mayonnaise – perfectly complements the smoky meat. Devotees drive hours just for a sandwich, considering the journey part of the experience.

8. Bida Manda

A Laotian restaurant in Raleigh, is a testament to cultural heritage and innovative cuisine. The name, meaning “father and mother” in Sanskrit, reflects the family-owned nature of the establishment.

Guests are greeted with a warm atmosphere and an array of exotic flavors. The menu pays homage to Laotian traditions while embracing modern culinary techniques. Signature dishes like the crispy pork belly soup captivate diners with bold taste and presentation.

9. The Pit Authentic Barbecue

Housed in a renovated 1930s meatpacking warehouse in downtown Raleigh, The Pit honors North Carolina’s barbecue legacy while adding contemporary flair. The brick-walled space balances rustic charm with urban sophistication.

Unlike many modern barbecue spots, The Pit stays true to tradition by cooking entire hogs Eastern-style. The resulting pulled pork offers varied textures and flavors from different parts of the animal. Their commitment to heritage extends to sides like black-eyed peas and collard greens, completing a quintessential Southern meal.

10. Raleigh Times Bar

Newspapers once rolled off presses in the building that now houses Raleigh Times Bar. The historic space preserves its journalistic heritage through framed front pages and printing artifacts adorning exposed brick walls.

While many come for the impressive beer selection featuring rare Belgian brews, those in the know stay for the unexpectedly excellent food. Their Korean-inspired pork belly tacos create a perfect balance of fatty richness and acidic kimchi crunch. The rooftop patio offers one of downtown’s best people-watching perches.

11. Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen

Don’t let the humble drive-thru window fool you – Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen has earned cult status among Chapel Hill residents and UNC students alike. The tiny building operates with assembly-line efficiency during morning rushes.

Each biscuit is handmade using a closely guarded family recipe dating back generations. Filled with fried chicken, country ham, or pimento cheese, these golden pillows represent breakfast perfection. The chicken and egg biscuit, drizzled with honey, creates a sweet-savory combination that explains the constant line of cars.

12. Mateo Bar De Tapas

Southern ingredients meet Spanish techniques at Mateo, where chef Matt Kelly creates magic in Durham’s historic downtown. The soaring ceilings and original brick walls of the former book store provide a dramatic backdrop for intimate dining.

Small plates encourage sharing and exploration of the extensive menu. The patatas bravas – crispy potatoes with spicy aioli – pair perfectly with Spanish wines from the thoughtfully curated list. Local ham and regional cheeses get the Spanish treatment, creating cross-cultural delights that represent North Carolina’s evolving food identity.