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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Raleigh

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9 restaurants available nearby

A photo of ORO restaurant
1. ORO
4.7
Exceptional(2174)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 9 times today
ORO Restaurant & Lounge in Downtown Raleigh is a beacon for Tapas enthusiasts, offering a vibrant and shareable dining experience that's as delightful as it is unique. Perfectly located in the PNC Building, ORO is celebrated for its creatively curated small plates that are designed to be enjoyed communally, making every meal a festive, social affair. Reviewers consistently praise the restaurant, noting dishes like the "spectacular pork and oysters" and the "best octopus and prawns we have had in a long time." The atmosphere is electric, augmented by an extensive wine list and innovative cocktails, ensuring a memorable dining experience. As one reviewer perfectly summed it up, ORO is a "MUST DINING EXPERIENCE!!!!" with its exceptional service, ambiance, and culinary offerings.
A photo of Tupelo Honey - Raleigh restaurant
2. Tupelo Honey - Raleigh
4.4
Awesome(3733)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 16 times today
Tupelo Honey in Raleigh is a treasure trove of Southern comfort food, where every dish promises a homemade touch and a nod to Southern traditions. Patrons rave about the authenticity and quality of their comfort cuisine, with favorites like the "creamy and flavorful" shrimp and grits, and the always popular chicken and waffles, which are described as "amazing." The restaurant's commitment to scratch-made, responsibly-sourced ingredients elevates each meal, making it not just food, but an experience. Visitors often note the warm, inviting atmosphere and the delightful service, making Tupelo Honey a must-visit for anyone looking for genuine Southern hospitality and exquisite comfort food. As one satisfied customer put it, the food is "phenomenal" and a reason to keep coming back.
A photo of Mandolin restaurant
3. Mandolin
4.6
Exceptional(2817)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 12 times today
Mandolin in Raleigh is a Southern cuisine gem, offering a fresh, contemporary twist on traditional favorites. Celebrated for its use of high-quality local ingredients, diners consistently praise its seasonal menus. A review exclaimed, "The Chocolate Soufflé will change your life," illustrating the memorable dining experience Mandolin provides. Its ambiance, described as "refined & upscale farmhouse style," perfectly complements the food, creating a cozy yet sophisticated Southern atmosphere. Whether it’s a special occasion or a casual outing, guests are assured of "excellent food and service," with dishes like the praised Grouper and artichoke sides, making Mandolin a must-visit for authentic Southern dining in Raleigh.
A photo of NCMA Cafe restaurant
4. NCMA Cafe
4.4
Awesome(424)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 19 times today
NCMA Cafe, located in the prestigious North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh, delivers an exceptional Contemporary American dining experience, blending Southern charm with international flair. The cafe's Southern-inspired menu, infused with global influences, ensures a delightful culinary journey. Patrons rave about the quality and creativity of the dishes, with one guest exclaiming, "The menu looked so delish it took forever to settle on what we wanted!" Another highlighted the "excellent food and wonderful lavender lemonade," underscoring the cafe's commitment to refreshing and innovative cuisine. Whether you're enjoying the "scrumptious Saturday brunch" or the artfully prepared "Primary colors salad," NCMA Cafe promises a memorable meal that complements a day of art exploration.
A photo of Anthony's La Piazza Prime - Downtown Raleigh restaurant
5. Anthony's La Piazza Prime - Downtown Raleigh
4.9
Exceptional(27)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 5 times today
Anthony’s La Piazza Italian Restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina, stands out for its exceptional American cuisine, with a particular focus on Italian-American classics. Celebrated for its authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients, this family-owned gem has delighted locals for over two decades. Patrons rave about their experiences, highlighting dishes like the "best pizza we have had" and the must-try "veal saltimbocca and chicken parm." The ambiance is consistently described as inviting, with a staff that makes everyone feel like family. From the hearty portions to the meticulous service, Anthony’s La Piazza exemplifies the best of American dining in the heart of Raleigh.
A photo of City Club - Raleigh restaurant
6. City Club - Raleigh
2.5
(3)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
City Club Raleigh is a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, offering a culinary experience that is as dynamic as its stunning location atop the Wells Fargo building in Raleigh. Renowned for its imaginative menus and eclectic cuisine, the club emphasizes the freshest local ingredients, ensuring each dish is a seasonal celebration. Diners rave about the "perfectly seasoned" salmon over butternut squash and the "best fried flounder" they've ever had, highlighting the chef's talent for elevating traditional flavors. With its breathtaking views and top-tier service, City Club Raleigh stands out as a premier destination for those seeking an elevated dining experience in Contemporary American cuisine.
A photo of Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen - Cary restaurant
7. Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen - Cary
4.7
Exceptional(5941)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Cary
Booked 69 times today
Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen in Cary is a gem for those seeking contemporary Southern cuisine with a twist. This restaurant stands out by incorporating fresh, local ingredients into every dish, bringing a unique flavor to classic Southern meals. Reviewers consistently praise the quality and authenticity of the food, with one guest exclaiming, "The food was absolutely delicious. Try it. I know you won't be disappointed." Another guest noted the "fabulous comfort food" like meatloaf and short ribs, highlighting the restaurant's commitment to traditional Southern comfort with a modern flair. Lucky 32's ability to offer a cozy, yet vibrant dining experience makes it a must-visit for anyone in the Cary area looking for exceptional Southern dining.
A photo of Margaux's Restaurant restaurant
8. Margaux's Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2371)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 21 times today
At Margaux's Restaurant in Raleigh, the essence of Pan-Asian cuisine is brought to life with a unique twist that captivates both locals and visitors alike. Celebrated for its ever-evolving menu, Margaux’s offers a culinary journey through Asia with dishes that are both authentic and innovatively presented. Reviewers rave about the freshness and quality of the ingredients, with comments like "These are the freshest oysters I have ever eaten!" and the scallop and shrimp curry dish being described as "one of the best meals I've had anywhere in a very long time! SO GOOD!" This praise underscores Margaux’s commitment to excellence, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier Pan-Asian dining experience in Raleigh.
A photo of Lafayette Village Grill restaurant
9. Lafayette Village Grill
4.3
Awesome(577)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Lafayette Village Grill in Raleigh stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine with a delightful Southern twist. Celebrated for its high-quality, locally sourced ingredients, the Grill offers a menu that beautifully captures the essence of America's diverse culinary landscape, enhanced by Southern flavors. Patrons rave about the authenticity and creativity of the dishes. One guest recommended, "the Maverick shrimp & grits," praising its perfect balance of flavors and portion size. The recent renovations have only amplified the charm and appeal of this flagship spot, making it a must-visit for food lovers seeking an exceptional dining experience in Raleigh. The combination of an extensive drink selection and stellar service completes the remarkable ambiance at Lafayette Village Grill, with guests frequently commending the knowledgeable and attentive staff.

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Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Raleigh

Discover the vibrant world of contemporary American cuisine in Raleigh, nestled within the Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill area. This region boasts an exceptional array of dining establishments that masterfully blend traditional American flavors with innovative culinary techniques, creating unique and memorable dining experiences. From chic, urban lounges to cozy bistros, each restaurant offers a distinct atmosphere, unified by their commitment to quality and creativity. Highlighting local ingredients and seasonal menus, these eateries ensure every meal is not only fresh but also resonates with the local culture and culinary trends. Raleigh's dining scene is characterized by its eclectic and sophisticated offerings that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts. Whether you're in the mood for a casual meal or a fine dining experience, the contemporary American restaurants in Raleigh promise to deliver excellence in every dish served, complemented by impeccable service and a welcoming ambiance. This vibrant culinary landscape reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of American cuisine, inviting diners to explore the rich flavors and innovative dishes that Raleigh has to offer.

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