You’ve likely heard a Raleighite mention how much the city’s changed — we’ve been doing it since 1792.
Still, there are local businesses where Oak City feels frozen in time, where you can rub elbows with bigwigs, grab 100-year-old hot dogs and brunch, and munch on storied pig skins.
Today, we’re stepping into the time machine. Let’s dial it back by decade and explore Raleigh establishments where time stands still.
1950s
Players Retreat | 1951
You’ll find yourselves rubbing elbows with NC State fans and players new and old at this Raleigh gem. PR has weathered the rise of giant sports bars while staying true to its humble beginnings.
State Farmers Market Restaurant | 1955
With the website realbiscuits.com, you know this place is Southern. Cooking with NC produce, the State Farmers Market is adorned with vibrant murals and a customer base from all across NC. Pro tip: Never say no to the passed desserts at lunch.
Big Ed’s | 1958
Raleigh Magazine recently proclaimed that “Real Raleighites Eat at Big Ed’s,” and we have to agree. The checked tablecloths, fresh coffee, and Southern staples like salty country ham with redeye gravy and chuckwagon steaks feel like home for longtime Oak City residents.
Char-Grill | 1959
This Hillsborough Street icon has been chargrilling its burgers and hot dogs downtown for 67 years, and it still has plenty of vintage charm, like the paper slip ordering and low prices.
1940s
The Roast Grill | 1940
Let the Hot Weiners sign guide you home. This local fave has been grilling up dogs for 85 years on South West Street. Bring cash and a hankerin’ for hot dogs — and leave your love for ketchup at the door.
Watkins Grill | 1947
This old-timey breakfast spot feels like a blast from the past. We love the pancakes and gazing at the walls filled with Raleigh’s history.
1930s
The Mecca Restaurant | 1930
This eatery just celebrated its 85th birthday, and because of its proximity to the NC Legislature, it’s a mainstay for politicians and legislators. The restaurant originally opened at the corner of Fayetteville and Hargett streets and moved to its current spot on Martin Street in 1937. Pro tip: The weekday lunch specials include an entree, two sides, and a drink for $12.
Clyde Cooper’s BBQ | 1938
This eastern-meets-Lexington style ‘cue spot has been known for tasty bites for nearly 80 years and is moving to a new location just a few minutes away by the end of 2025. Don’t forget to grab a bag of pork skins to go with your meal.
Outside of Raleigh
Shorty’s Famous Hot Dogs, Wake Forest | 1916
Although it’s not in Raleigh proper, we have to recognize one of the oldest restaurants in North Carolina. This historic spot is slingin’ dogs in downtown Wake Forest six days a week with mustard, chili, and onions at low prices.
Carolina Coffee Shop, Chapel Hill | 1922
This beloved Chapel Hill restaurant takes the cake as the oldest continually running restaurant in North Carolina with over 100 years under its belt. It’s more than just coffee — grab a classic Southern brunch any day of the week.
King’s Sandwich Shop, Durham | 1942
This Bull City icon serves up burgers, hot dogs, barbecue, and veggie burgers under its unmissable red roof. And where else can you get a burger and shake for less than $10?
