Crowd-sourced business review site Yelp recently compiled a list of the 100 best restaurants in the Carolinas, based on the volume and ratings of reviews from 2021 to the beginning of 2023. Of the top 100, five Raleigh restaurants made the cut as the best-of-the-best in all of the Tar Heel and Palmetto states.
Bombay Curry, 13220 Strickland Rd., Ste. 167, Raleigh | Landing just outside the top 10 is this North Indian restaurant. Try delicious dishes like the vegetable curry, palak paneer, chicken korma, and rasmalai — a cheese, rosewater, and pistachio dessert.
City Market Sushi, 315 Blake St., Raleigh | Check out creative sushi rolls like the Green Machine and Dragon Tuna, plus other Japanese eats in an upscale location.
A Place at the Table, 300 W. Hargett St., Ste. 50, Raleigh | Famous for its pay-what-you-can and volunteer-for-a-meal system, this nonprofit restaurant serves healthy and affordable meals to the community. Try a build-your-own biscuit sandwich and even pay a meal forward.
SmokeStacks Cafe, 701 E. Lane St., Raleigh | This Historic Oakwood spot is a must-try for an ever-changing menu of Southern classics with a twist, plus delicious drinks and specials.
St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar, 223 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh | Who said you need to go to the coast for great seafood? St. Roch is serving up high quality New Orleans-style fare in a stylish downtown locale with unique cocktails and a variety of seafood dishes.
Venture just outside of the City of Oaks to visit spots like the No. 1 pick Pure Soul in Durham and No. 68 Akami Sushi Bar in Apex, also featured on the list.
