Some people make to-do lists — we make to-dine lists. Many hot new Raleigh restaurants have opened over the past several months, from familiar names expanding to new kids on the block.
To satisfy those who are really hungry for fresh dining options, we’ve got details on several more Oak City restaurants coming soon, too. Grab your forks as we dig right in.
Newly open
Brewery Bhavana, 850 Lower Garden Ln., Cary | Brewery + Restaurant | Reservations: Yes
Known for its specialty brews and dim sum menu, visit the cozy spot and try the crab rangoons, filled with blue crab, cucumber salad, and the duck egg rolls.
Crawford Brothers Steakhouse, 401 Fenton Gateway Dr., Cary | Steakhouse | Reservations: Yes
The 4,500-sqft eatery features modern design, a wine library, and artwork by local artist Thomas Sayre.
The Crunkleton, 403 W. Johnson St. | American restaurant | Reservations: Yes
This Chapel Hill staple is in the heart of Smoky Hollow serving up specialty cocktails and main entrees like Mediterranean chicken piccata featuring confit fingerling potatoes, charred Asparagus, topped with sundried tomato tapenade.
Marian, 301 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 100 | Plant-based | Reservations: Yes
Expect global flavors while steering clear of meat, dairy, and any other non-vegan ingredients.
Naōs, 2800 Renaissance Park Pl., Cary | Hellenic | Reservations: Yes
This spot has a modern + homey ambiance with Greek decor and food that aims to merge themes of sophistication and warmth. Its menu features dishes like Moussaka, a spiced ground sirloin paired with eggplant, potato, and goat cheese bechamel.
Omakase by Kai, 15 Seaboard Ave. | Japanese | Reservations: Yes
The sushi restaurant is the latest project from chef James Chung, who also runs North Raleigh’s Kai Sushi & Sake Bar and features a wrap-around sake bar.
Peregrine, 1000 Social St. | South Asian | Reservations: Yes
This contemporary eatery, founded by chef Saif Rahman + Patrick Shanahan, is the flagship restaurant in 1000 Social, and its menu is a blend of NC cuisine and South Asian dishes.
Tucker Street Diner, 421 N. Harrington St., Ste. 110 | Comfort | Reservations: No
Promising comforting diner eats in an elevated environment, the diner is owned by the same folks behind the Shiny Diner near Crossroads — expect similarly tasty pancakes, sandwiches, and more.
Coming soon
The Pickled Onion, 8470 Honeycutt Rd. | Sports bar | Projected opening: TBD
This locally owned and operated sports bar is expanding and is a family-friendly and kid-friendly eatery that serves made-to-order bites like the Chicago beef sandwich + the bourbon street chicken.
La Cucina Italiana, Smoky Hollow | Italian | Project opening: Spring
Foodies can expect fresh and handcrafted dishes featuring offerings including pizza, pasta, and gluten-free + vegan options. It joins a vibrant dining scene, with neighbors like Madre and Morelia, a gourmet popsicle shop.
The Dirty V, TBD | Plant-based | Projected opening: TBD
This all-vegan noshery is coming home to Oak City after a stint in Apex with a daring plant-based menu — plus, it’s owned by the same folks as Element Gastropub, another vegan-friendly hotspot.