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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Raleigh

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7 restaurants available nearby

A photo of ORO restaurant
1. ORO
4.7
Exceptional(2196)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 7 times today
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, ORO Restaurant & Lounge offers a vibrant and chic setting that perfectly complements its exquisite Tapas and Small Plates cuisine. Known for its "spectacular" dishes that are thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavor, ORO has become a beloved gem among food enthusiasts. Chef Ruiz's creations, such as the "irresistible" truffle mac & cheese and "mouthwatering" grilled octopus, showcase his passion for authentic flavors and impeccable presentation. Diners consistently rave about the "fantastic" food and the warm, lively ambiance, making ORO a "must dining experience" for anyone looking to indulge in exceptional shared plates.
A photo of Tupelo Honey - Raleigh restaurant
2. Tupelo Honey - Raleigh
4.5
Awesome(3767)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 78 times today
Tupelo Honey in Raleigh is a true celebration of Southern American cuisine, bringing the authentic flavors of the Carolina Mountains to life with every dish. This charming eatery is renowned for its "incredible food and great service," consistently impressing diners who rave about their "amazing fried chicken and collard greens" and classic Southern specialties like Shrimp and Grits. With its scratch-made, responsibly sourced offerings, Tupelo Honey is the perfect spot for brunch, lunch, or dinner, promising a delightful experience that "never disappoints." The restaurant's dedication to Southern hospitality and culinary excellence makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking genuine American comfort food.
A photo of Mandolin restaurant
3. Mandolin
4.6
Exceptional(2848)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 29 times today
Mandolin in Raleigh is a standout destination for Contemporary American cuisine, blending Southern roots with global influences. This neighborhood gem captivates diners with its commitment to "the highest quality local ingredients" and a menu that changes with the seasons. Guests rave about the deliciously prepared dishes, from the "best grits I’ve ever had" to the "divine shrimp and grits." The rustic yet refined ambiance echoes the character of Raleigh itself, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion. Praised for its exceptional service and "spectacular" food, Mandolin consistently delivers an authentic taste of Contemporary American fare that leaves a lasting impression.
A photo of Anthony's La Piazza Prime - Downtown Raleigh restaurant
4. Anthony's La Piazza Prime - Downtown Raleigh
4.5
Awesome(56)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 13 times today
Anthony's La Piazza Prime in Downtown Raleigh is a prime destination for authentic American cuisine, offering a menu brimming with quality and tradition. The restaurant's meticulous attention to detail shines through in every dish, capturing the essence of American flavors. Diners rave about the "outstanding food and excellent service," with many highlighting how the generous portions leave them "so full leaving." The cozy and inviting ambiance, coupled with a friendly and attentive staff, creates a delightful dining experience that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying a classic steak or exploring diverse American flavors, Anthony’s promises a memorable culinary journey.
A photo of NCMA Cafe restaurant
5. NCMA Cafe
4.4
Awesome(457)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 19 times today
NCMA Cafe, nestled in the vibrant North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh, offers a delightful Southern culinary experience with a twist of international flair. Diners rave about the “excellent menu selections” and the creative, seasonal dishes that capture the essence of Southern cuisine. The shrimp & grits are described as "outstanding," while the catfish is perfectly "crisp outside, flaky and tender inside." The cafe's ambiance complements its flavorful offerings, providing a “wonderful place to sit” and enjoy a meal amidst art. With a dedicated and accommodating staff, NCMA Cafe promises a memorable dining experience that blends Southern charm with artistic sophistication.
A photo of Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen - Cary restaurant
6. Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen - Cary
4.7
Exceptional(6037)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Cary
Booked 72 times today
Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen in Cary is a treasure trove of exceptional Southern cuisine, renowned for its authentic flavors and use of local ingredients. Diners rave about the "exceptional southern menu" and the "wonderful ambiance and service" that make every visit special. The restaurant crafts classic Southern dishes like shrimp and grits and southern fried chicken with perfection, ensuring each meal is both memorable and satisfying. With generous portions and a seasonal menu that offers delightful surprises, Lucky 32 stands as a beacon of Southern culinary excellence. It's no wonder patrons consistently praise it as their "absolute favorite restaurant" and a "hidden gem."
A photo of Margaux's Restaurant restaurant
7. Margaux's Restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(2398)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Raleigh
Booked 12 times today
Margaux's Restaurant in Raleigh is a beacon of excellence in Contemporary American cuisine, consistently delivering an extraordinary dining experience for over 30 years. Their "ever-changing menu" keeps patrons returning to explore new flavors, ensuring that each visit is as exciting as the last. Diners rave about the "excellent" and "perfectly prepared" dishes that showcase the best of Contemporary American culinary creativity, from succulent crab cakes to mouthwatering steaks. With an atmosphere that blends "high-energy metropolis" vibes with "soulful Southern hospitality," Margaux's stands out as a must-visit dining destination in Raleigh. Experience their outstanding service and ambiance, and you'll soon discover why Margaux's is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

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From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • RossVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •279 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    We had a wonderful meal at Mandolin. The service was excellent, as was the food (we both had the lamb dish). Their wine list is first rate, although not inexpensive. Very highly recommended - one of our favorite Raleigh restaurants.
    More info
    MandolinPrice: Moderate• Southern• Raleigh
    •
    4.6
  • Shanell
    Orange County •4 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The ambiance is amazing to start . Eli was out server and her was great explaining everything since it was our first visit . The food came out pretty quickly as well .All the food was delicious and light and filling . We will definitely be coming back.
    More info
    OROPrice: Expensive• Contemporary American• Raleigh
    •
    4.7
  • LisaVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •75 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We've been to Tandem many times and always enjoyed our meals there. This time, we had three old favorites: the deviled eggs, the Caesar salad, and the short rib. We also tried the daily catch, which was sea bass with a truffle butter. It was excellent. We will return.
    More info
    TandemPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carrboro
    •
    4.6
  • Linda
    Seattle / Eastern Washington •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 4 days ago
    Our server, Hanif, was so friendly, helpful, and efficient. He answered our questions and was able to provide details regarding menu items. He remembered our group from our visit last month.
    More info
    NCMA CafePrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Raleigh
    •
    4.4
  • Bob
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on 6 Feb 2025
    This place is run and feels like an exquisite symphony. Everything was perfection. We had a few wines that I will remember for a very long time. So many personal touches too in celebration of my birthday. Personalized menus signed by the chef and a goodie bag of beautiful chocolates and a couple jellies. Really an incredible experience that will stay with me for a very long time.
    More info
    Fearrington House RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Chapel Hill
    •
    4.8

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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