The best southern foods in Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, N.C is the perfect gateway into traditional southern food experiences of the South.
This is where southern culinary traditions meet innovative twists to create a booming food scene. Here’s what to look out for:
Since opening the flagship Poole’s Diner in 2007, chef Ashley Christensen’s work, both in the kitchen and the community, has earned the attention and admiration of foodies everywhere. At Poole’s, a modern diner with retro-chic charm, the macaroni au gratin was one of the very first dishes dreamed up for the chalkboard menu more than 15 years ago. Today, it’s by far the most popular item in the restaurant. More than 16,000 orders are sold each year, using 10,000 pounds of cheese — a testament to its cult-like following.
For barbecue lovers, look no further than Sam Jones BBQ. The renowned third-generation pitmaster and James Beard Award semifinalist Sam Jones comes from a long line of family members that live and breathe Eastern-style barbecue. The menu, of course, is highlighted by whole-hog barbecue — 180-pound hogs cooked in a wood-fired pit for 16 hours, skin blistered to a shatteringly crisp texture, then chopped together with a couple of meat cleavers. Top it off with salt, pepper, cider vinegar and hot sauce to experience the classic Eastern North Carolina dish. Pair it with hushpuppies and sweet tea for the whole experience.
For a truly authentic southern breakfast or brunch experience, head to Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant. Established in 1958, Big Ed’s is a beloved Raleigh institution brimming with southern charm, where antiques and farm equipment hang from the ceiling. Southern staples like country ham biscuits, biscuits smothered in sausage gravy and giant hotcakes that are as big as they are delicious make it a must-visit for breakfast lovers.
Raleigh’s southern food scene isn’t just about tradition, though — it’s about transformation and innovation. At Figulina, the menu centers on fresh, handmade pasta while blending Italian inspiration with seasonal southern ingredients and flavors. The restaurant’s commitment to craft and locality shines through every dish. Beyond the dining room, Figulina features a cozy provisions shop reminiscent of a small-town market, offering take-home goods, curated cookbooks and locally sourced pantry staples. It’s a place where the warmth of southern hospitality meets the elegance of Italian tradition.
Come hungry and leave inspired after exploring Raleigh’s culinary scene, where every bite tells a story of Southern innovation and culture.
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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