Raleigh, a vibrant city known for its rich history and diverse culture, also boasts a culinary scene that's as varied and exciting as its landscape. From hearty Southern classics to innovative fusion dishes, the city's food and drink offerings are a reflection of its dynamic character. Whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, these top eats and sips are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Raleigh’s Top 5 Famous Foods

Eastern North Carolina Barbecue

A cornerstone of Raleigh's culinary landscape, Eastern North Carolina Barbecue is steeped in history and flavor. This unique style of barbecue focuses on pit-cooked pork, which is slow-roasted to achieve a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The meat is then finely chopped and seasoned with a vinegar-based sauce, a recipe passed down through generations. This sauce, distinctive for its sharp tanginess and hint of spice, beautifully complements the smoky pork. Served with a side of coleslaw and cornbread, this dish embodies the soul of Southern cooking and is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Raleigh.

Shrimp and Grits

Raleigh's rendition of shrimp and grits is a dish that beautifully marries the bounty of the sea with the comfort of the land. This dish starts with stone-ground grits, cooked slowly until they reach a creamy, almost velvety consistency. Onto these grits are piled plump, fresh shrimp, sautéed with a blend of local spices that infuse the seafood with a gentle heat and rich flavor. Often garnished with bits of crispy bacon and a sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese, this dish is a symphony of textures and flavors, making it a beloved choice for both locals and visitors alike.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Fried green tomatoes in Raleigh are a testament to the city's ability to transform simple ingredients into something extraordinary. These unripe tomatoes, sliced thick and coated in a seasoned cornmeal batter, are fried until they reach a golden-brown perfection. The result is a delightful contrast between the crispy, savory exterior and the tangy, firm interior of the tomato. Served with a homemade aioli or a spicy remoulade sauce, these fried green tomatoes are not just a side dish; they're a celebration of Southern culinary ingenuity, making them a beloved staple in Raleigh's food scene.

Biscuits and Gravy

In Raleigh, biscuits and gravy are more than just a breakfast dish; they are a comforting embrace in food form. The biscuits, baked fresh daily in many local eateries, are the epitome of Southern baking - light, flaky, and buttery. These are then smothered in a rich, creamy gravy made from the drippings of cooked sausage, combined with flour, milk, and a blend of herbs and spices. Each bite of this dish offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, from the soft, pillowy biscuits to the hearty, savory gravy, making it a beloved morning tradition in Raleigh.

Chicken and Waffles

Chicken and waffles in Raleigh are a true culinary juxtaposition that tantalizes both sweet and savory taste buds. This dish pairs crispy, succulent fried chicken with soft, fluffy waffles, creating a contrast that's both unexpected and delightful. The chicken, often marinated and seasoned with a secret blend of spices, is fried to a perfect golden-brown crisp. It's then placed atop a freshly-made waffle, which provides a soft, sweet counterpoint to the savory chicken. Drizzled with maple syrup or a touch of hot sauce, this dish is a beloved staple in Raleigh, offering a taste experience that's both comforting and exhilarating.

Raleigh’s Top 5 Famous Drinks

Sweet Tea

Sweet tea in Raleigh is not just a drink; it's a symbol of Southern hospitality. This beloved beverage starts with a strong brew of black tea, steeped until it reaches just the right intensity. It's then sweetened, often generously, with sugar, creating a balance that is both refreshing and comforting. Served over ice, often with a slice of lemon, Raleigh's sweet tea is the perfect antidote to a hot summer day. It's a staple at family gatherings, picnics, and restaurants across the city, embodying the warmth and friendliness that Raleigh is known for.

Local Craft Beer

The craft beer scene in Raleigh is a vibrant and ever-evolving tapestry of flavors and styles. Local breweries in the city take pride in their artisanal approach, experimenting with various ingredients and brewing techniques to create unique and memorable beers. From hoppy IPAs that pack a punch to smooth, dark stouts with rich undertones of coffee and chocolate, there's a brew for every palate. These beers not only showcase the creativity and skill of Raleigh's brewers but also reflect the community's passion for supporting local businesses. A pint of Raleigh's craft beer is more than just a drink; it's a taste of the city's innovative and communal spirit.

Moonshine Cocktails

Moonshine cocktails in Raleigh are a nod to the city's history, reimagined in a modern, sophisticated way. Once known as a bootlegger's spirit, moonshine has been transformed by local mixologists into the base for an array of innovative cocktails. These drinks blend the clear, potent spirit with fresh, often locally-sourced ingredients, creating a balance that is both intriguing and delightful. Whether it's a moonshine-infused twist on a classic cocktail or a completely original creation, these drinks offer a unique way to experience a piece of Raleigh's past, served up in a contemporary and stylish presentation.

Boylan Soda

Boylan Soda, a local gem, offers a fizzy trip down memory lane. Produced in Raleigh, this soda comes in a variety of flavors, each with its own distinct taste and character. From the classic cola to the bright and tangy birch beer, these sodas are crafted with care, using traditional recipes and methods. Boylan Soda is more than just a beverage; it's a piece of Raleigh's entrepreneurial spirit, a reminder of the days when soda fountains were the heart of community gatherings. Enjoying a bottle of Boylan Soda is like savoring a piece of local history, one fizzy sip at a time.

North Carolina Wine

The wine scene in Raleigh is a testament to North Carolina's growing prominence in viticulture. Local restaurants and bars proudly feature a selection of wines from the nearby vineyards, showcasing the variety and quality of the state's offerings. From robust reds to crisp whites, each wine tells the story of the local terroir, reflecting the care and skill of North Carolina's winemakers. These wines not only complement the city's culinary offerings but also highlight Raleigh's connection to the broader agricultural richness of the region. Tasting a glass of North Carolina wine in Raleigh is a journey through the state's lush vineyards, a sensory exploration of its diverse and flourishing wine landscape. In Raleigh, every meal and drink tells a story of heritage, innovation, and community. Whether you're indulging in a plate of Eastern North Carolina barbecue or sipping on a moonshine cocktail, you're experiencing a piece of Raleigh's heart and soul. This city's food and drink scene isn't just about satisfying hunger or quenching thirst; it's about celebrating the rich tapestry of flavors that make Raleigh truly unique. So, the next time you find yourself in Raleigh, dive into its culinary treasures and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey.