10 Overhyped NC Steakhouses That Draw Crowds (Just Not Locals)

North Carolina offers plenty of sizzling steakhouses, but not all live up to their reputation. Tourists flock to these establishments based on flashy marketing and prime locations, while locals often know better places to spend their hard-earned money. Here’s our honest take on ten NC steakhouses that might not be worth the hype or the wait.

1. Sullivan’s Steakhouse – Charlotte: All Style, Little Substance

Nestled in uptown Charlotte, Sullivan’s attracts business travelers and convention-goers with its polished atmosphere and prominent location.

Yet locals whisper about inconsistent quality and portions that shrink while prices expand. The staff often seems more interested in turning tables than creating memorable dining experiences.

Many Charlotte residents would rather drive an extra mile for authentic flavor at family-owned establishments with genuine Southern hospitality.

2. Brasilia Churrasco Steakhouse – Asheville: Tourist Trap in Disguise

Mountain visitors flock here expecting authentic Brazilian rodizio, but seasoned Asheville foodies know better. The meats often arrive oversalted or undercooked, masking their questionable quality.

Priced at a premium that makes locals roll their eyes, this establishment banks on one-time visitors who won’t return to complain.

Fun fact: True Brazilian churrascarias age their meats differently than what’s served here, something the restaurant conveniently omits from its marketing materials.

3. Johnny Bull’s Steakhouse – Louisburg: Living on Past Glory

Remember when your grandparents raved about this place? Johnny Bull’s hasn’t changed since – and that’s the problem.

The dated decor might charm first-timers seeking small-town authenticity, but the steaks arrive consistently overcooked and under-seasoned. Regulars joke that the kitchen hasn’t updated its recipes since the Reagan administration.

The restaurant survives on nostalgia and curious travelers passing through, while locals head to newer establishments for special occasions.

4. Davison’s Steaks – Sanford: Highway Robbery with A Side of Gravy

Billboards along I-95 lure weary travelers to this overpriced disappointment. Sanford residents shake their heads at mention of Davison’s, where mediocre cuts cost twice what they should.

The restaurant’s signature “secret” steak sauce? Store-bought with added brown sugar – a trick exposed by a former kitchen worker.

Road-trippers fill the parking lot while knowing locals drive past to unpretentious diners serving better meals at half the price.

5. Carl and Chelles – Goldsboro: Fancy Facade, Forgettable Flavors

Military families from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base often celebrate promotions here, unaware that Goldsboro natives rarely darken its doors.

The steaks, while beautifully presented, lack the depth of flavor that justifies their eye-watering prices. Oddly enough, their vegetable sides outshine the main attractions.

A quirky observation: The owner frequently appears in local TV commercials but reportedly eats at his competitor’s restaurant when dining out.

6. The Angus Barn – Raleigh: More Museum Than Mouthwatering

Famous doesn’t always mean fabulous. The Angus Barn’s rustic charm and massive wine collection impress out-of-towners seeking Southern hospitality, but savvy Raleighites know the truth.

The steaks, while decent, rarely justify the astronomical prices and lengthy waits. Their legendary cheese spread? Available at local grocery stores.

The restaurant thrives on special-occasion diners and corporate expense accounts rather than repeat local business.

7. Vinnie’s Steak House & Tavern – Raleigh: Stuck in a Time Warp

Walking into Vinnie’s feels like stepping back into 1985 – and not in a charming way. Dark wood paneling surrounds tables of business travelers and anniversary couples who discovered it online.

Local steak enthusiasts whisper about inconsistent quality and uninspired preparations that haven’t evolved with culinary trends. The cocktail list remains firmly anchored in the past.

You’ll rarely hear Raleigh residents recommending it when visitors ask for authentic local dining experiences.

8. Crawford Brothers Steakhouse – Cary: Corporate Charm Without Character

“You’ve tried one, you’ve tried them all” applies perfectly to this cookie-cutter establishment catering to Cary’s business parks. Visiting executives fill tables while longtime residents stay away.

The menu reads impressively but delivers predictably safe, middle-of-the-road flavors at premium prices. Their much-touted dry-aging process somehow results in remarkably forgettable steaks.

Staff recite rehearsed descriptions of cuts that sound identical to chain restaurant scripts – because essentially, that’s what this place is.

9. Oak Steakhouse – Raleigh: Emperor’s New Clothes of Steakhouses

Social media influencers snap photos of pretty plates while wondering why their meals taste so ordinary. Oak Steakhouse masterfully creates an impression of exclusivity that doesn’t translate to the palate.

Their wagyu selections, priced like luxury cars, often arrive with disappointing flavor profiles. The sommelier recommends wines that conveniently happen to be the priciest options.

Raleigh’s food critics privately acknowledge the disconnect between reputation and reality but rarely publish their honest assessments.

10. Ruth’s Chris Steak House – Durham: Chain Restaurant Pretending Otherwise

Corporate expense accounts keep this national chain bustling while Durham’s vibrant local food scene thrives elsewhere. The sizzling butter presentation dazzles first-timers but masks the unremarkable quality of their standardized cuts.

Durham residents roll their eyes at visitors who believe they’re experiencing authentic local cuisine. The identical menu found in every Ruth’s Chris nationwide somehow commands premium prices.

Secret tip: Several former chefs now run smaller, superior steakhouses nearby at half the price.