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Best Authentic Restaurants in Raleigh

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25 restaurants available nearby

A photo of The Pit Authentic BBQ restaurant
1. The Pit Authentic BBQ
4.3
Awesome(5742)
Price: Moderate
• Southern • Raleigh
Booked 42 times today
Servin’ everything but the squeal! The Pit Authentic Barbecue is home to world-famous tangy Eastern NC whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue. Located in the Warehouse District, we source premium AWA-certified hogs to cook low and slow for twelve hours. All of our spirits have been handpicked to enhance the smoked and sometimes spicy fare cooked off the pit, from beer to bourbon.Last but not least, we serve up a good time at unique private dining events. Our contemporary setting in a restored 1930s meatpacking warehouse is the perfect spot for rehearsal dinners, birthdays, and more. Check out the link below for details!
A photo of Gravy restaurant
2. Gravy
4.4
Awesome(3631)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 21 times today
When we say ‘gravy’, we mean tomato sauce. Experience classic Italian-American fare with a contemporary flair in the heart of downtown Raleigh when you dine in our cozy space or our vibrant courtyard. Our culinary artisans craft dishes with the freshest seasonal ingredients so that you can enjoy a rich and authentic taste of Italy, right here in North Carolina. Looking to host an event? Select the link below to learn more about our Wine Cellar, The Upstairs, and Jiddi Space & Courtyard for your next celebration. For parties of six or more, please call the restaurant: 919-896-8513
A photo of Sitti restaurant
3. Sitti
4.7
Exceptional(3323)
Price: Moderate
• Mediterranean • Raleigh
Booked 20 times today
Honoring Lebanese tradition through authentic cuisine. Sitti is a heartfelt tribute to the grandmothers, or sittis, the revered guardians of Lebanese culture, faith, and culinary heritage. Nestled in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Sitti breathes life into the rich traditions of Lebanon, honoring our ancestors by offering guests an unforgettable experience filled with mouthwatering dishes and exceptional hospitality.If you seek an outdoor escape, we offer seating in our courtyard. This space is also available for Private Dining experiences.
A photo of Anthony's La Piazza Prime - Downtown Raleigh restaurant
4. Anthony's La Piazza Prime - Downtown Raleigh
4.4
Awesome(66)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 7 times today
Anthony's La Piazza is a family-owned and operated Italian restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina. The restaurant brand has been serving the community for over 20 years. Anthony's La Piazza is known for its delicious food, friendly service, and warm atmosphere. The restaurant offers a wide variety of Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, seafood, and steaks. Anthony's La Piazza also has a full bar and a wine list. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Anthony's also has an elegant lounge open late nights Thursday through Saturday. We are located on the first floor of the AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown in the Glenwood South district.
A photo of Tamasha Modern Indian restaurant
5. Tamasha Modern Indian
4.7
Exceptional(531)
Price: Very Expensive
• Indian • Raleigh
Booked 30 times today
Experience the epitome of sophisticated Indian cuisine at Tamasha Modern Indian, nestled in Raleigh's dynamic North Hills. This culinary gem, owned by the discerning Mike Kathrani and the visionary Tina Vora, offers an extraordinary dining experience in an ambiance crafted with elegance by Tina herself. Tamasha's opulent design has earned it a place among the “50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America” by OpenTable and People Magazine, a prestigious accolade that marks it as North Carolina's sole honoree. Executive Chef Bhavin Chhatwani’s pedigree from India’s most prestigious properties to Michelin-starred restaurants stateside – is unmistakable. Tamasha showcases the depth and artistry of Indian cuisine – from show-stopping cocktails and a well-curated wine list, to Chhatwani’s refined menu of artful shared and composed dishes. Guests will discover exceptional hospitality on this inspired Indian culinary journey whether dining in the main dining room, private room or at the chic bar.
A photo of Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar restaurant
6. Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar
4.6
Exceptional(3073)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 54 times today
Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar is described as a place that 'takes the curious on a richly rewarding gastronomic journey across the Italian culinary landscape'. The reviews consistently praise the authentic Italian food and the ambiance that makes customers feel as though they've been transported to Italy. The restaurant also provides a culinary education on Italian cuisine, further solidifying its authenticity.
A photo of O-Ku - Raleigh restaurant
7. O-Ku - Raleigh
4.9
Exceptional(1926)
Price: Moderate
• Japanese • Raleigh
Booked 65 times today
O-Ku's menu provides a fresh and innovative take on traditional Japanese sushi and cuisine. Located in the Warehouse District of downtown Raleigh, the restaurant offers rare and unique dining options with traditional sashimi and specialty rolls, highlighting seafood from the finest fish markets in Tokyo and Hawaii alongside local and seasonal ingredients. Reminiscent of traditional Japanese culture, O-Ku's menu is comprised of signature starters, contemporary Japanese entrees and seasonal traditional sushi that reflect the uniquely designed space. The beverage program is built around quality ingredients that celebrate Japanese culture .
A photo of Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar - Raleigh restaurant
8. Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar - Raleigh
4.8
Exceptional(435)
Price: Moderate
• Indian • Raleigh
Booked 15 times today
Rated as the # 1 Indian Restaurant in Triangle, Lime & Lemon Indian Grill offers an immersive dining experience with exquisite dishes that will take you on a journey through India's many regions, traditions and festivals. We meticulously curate using only the best ingredients to create dishes that are authentic, unsurpassed, and timeless. All this in an ultra-modern setting to ensure your dining affair is nothing short of perfect. Featured in the October 2019 edition of News & Observer and received a 4 out of 5 star rating. It has been consistently voted as one of the Top 10 Ethnic restaurants and has also been recognized as the Best Indian Restaurant in the Triangle for 2019, 2020 and 2021.
A photo of Caffe Luna restaurant
9. Caffe Luna
4.8
Exceptional(2572)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 33 times today
Situated in a beautiful historic building in downtown Raleigh, Caffé Luna has been bringing authentic Italian cuisine with a Tuscan flair to the Triangle for over two decades.
A photo of Bella Monica restaurant
10. Bella Monica
4.7
Exceptional(3664)
Price: Moderate
• Italian • Raleigh
Booked 44 times today
Bella Monica – A Beloved Italian Trattoria in RaleighSince 2000, Bella Monica has been a neighborhood gem, serving authentic Neapolitan cuisine with warm hospitality. Owned by Chef Corbett and Julie Monica, our locally owned trattoria is an extension of Nana’s table, where guests become family.Our menu features thin-crust flatbreads, housemade pastas, fresh NC seafood, and locally sourced meats, crafted with San Marzano tomatoes and the freshest ingredients. Pair your meal with a selection from our all-Italian, Wine Spectator 2007-2025 award-winning wine list, and don’t leave without trying the best cannoli in Raleigh!Recognized with Diners’ Choice Awards for being charming, intimate, and perfect for special occasions, Bella Monica is where Raleigh gathers to enjoy great food, local art, and a lively atmosphere. Mangia bene!

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Howard
    2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Wow, this was my wife, and I first experience with Lebanese cuisine. Sitti was amazing. Tonight ambiance was just right for late dinner for 2. We started out with the vegan tasting hummus, fattoush, and I my wifey fall in love with the robust tasty warak anab wrapped with grape leaves. To keep it safe, I ordered the Samkeh Harra it was pan-seared with the flaky bottom on kale. What a peacasterian delight for a great night at Sitti. The servicer was friendly and quick and efficient with our plates. If you are a vegan and vegetarian, I recommend Sitti 5 stars for date night in the heart of downtown Raleigh! It was overall 5 stars experience for the Bishop's!
    More info
    SittiPrice: Moderate• Mediterranean• Raleigh
    •
    4.7
  • RickVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •12 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    Great new Indian restaurant. Food was amazing. Matthew, our server, was very knowledgeable about the menu and very friendly. Great service overall!
    More info
    Tamasha Modern IndianPrice: Very Expensive• Indian• Raleigh
    •
    4.7
  • AllisonR
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great spot for lunch. I was worried the food would be too heavy, but it was great.
    More info
    GravyPrice: Moderate• Italian• Raleigh
    •
    4.4
  • Diane
    Atlanta •8 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Our server was amazing. He was extremely knowledgeable and easy going which made us feel really welcome. The food portions were enormous but I’m not complaining at all. Will definitely return soon with more friends.
    More info
    Anthony's La Piazza Prime - Downtown RaleighPrice: Moderate• Italian• Raleigh
    •
    4.4
  • RogerVIP
    Dallas - Fort Worth •48 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on Mar 4, 2025
    Always a great experience with service and the food. Perhaps the best carrot cake ever!! Oh the BBQ plates speak for themselves for sure. Great team!!
    More info
    The Pit Authentic BBQPrice: Moderate• Southern• Raleigh
    •
    4.3

Discover best authentic restaurants in Raleigh

Discover the essence of authenticity in Raleigh's diverse dining scene with our curated restaurant reservation system that highlights the top spots in Raleigh, Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill for genuinely authentic culinary experiences. These selected restaurants stand out for their commitment to providing not only exceptional cuisine but also an atmosphere that complements their food offerings, making each meal a memorable event. From the vibrant flavors of authentic Mexican dishes to the refined tastes of Italian and French-inspired menus, each establishment is celebrated for its unique contribution to the local food culture. Patrons consistently praise these restaurants for their outstanding service, high-quality ingredients, and the ability to transport diners through their culinary excellence. Raleigh itself is a hub for food lovers, offering a range of dining options that cater to seekers of true, authentic flavors. Whether you're in the mood for seafood, traditional steaks, or seasonal specialties, Raleigh's restaurant scene promises an authentic dining experience that caters to sophisticated palates and culinary adventurers alike. Make your reservation today and indulge in the authenticity that Raleigh's top restaurants have to offer.

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