Top Rated Restaurants & Cafes in Raleigh/Durham

J. Bestki’s serves Polish and German food in the heart of downtown Raleigh. Pierogies and schnitzel are star players of the generous menu, but there are also some surprises, like soy-sesame-spicy paprika marinade and bison flank steak. The management prides itself on using superior local ingredients, and the bread rolls are baked next door, the owner shops daily at the farmers market for greens, and the sausages are mixed and made on site. An excellent selection of beers and wines from Italy, Austria, and Germany complements the cuisine.

Vinos Finos is a departure from run-of-the-mill drinking and dining experiences. Located inside European-themed Lafayette Village, the wine bar is designed to sample tapas-style dishes and world-class wines. The staff here is more than happy to help with wine selection and pairings. Dark woods, leather furniture, and warm colors make the interiors feel like an old-world wine shop. Vinos Finos encourages patrons to converse, and the intimate, colorful setting is doubly suited for first dates or casual business meetings.

This vibrant cafe, bakery, and German restaurant can safely be called a local favorite. Seasonal menus feature eclectic German specialties made with only locally-sourced ingredients. The bakery offers a generous menu of breads, cakes, pastries, and cookies. Guglhupf’s interiors are stunning, and feature an interior terrace and courtyard, a beautiful patio for outdoor dining, and an atrium. The cafe also often hosts wine and local food-related events, and exhibits the work of local artists.

This restaurant is a dynamic tribute to grandmothers, the caretakers of Lebanese culture and food. Modern and airy, Sitti (or, “grandmother”) serves classic Lebanese dishes with a few twists, including falafels, zaatar roasts, and kabobs served alongside grilled ribeye steaks and salmon. Enjoy any one of a number of authentic Mediterranean dishes, grab a Lebanese beer, and take a seat at the restored art deco bar. Zitti offers spacious and elegant outdoor seating in one of the best patios in Raleigh.

Sola stands apart for its absolute dedication to coffee and its stylish, friendly atmosphere reminiscent of European coffeehouses. The cafe offers a rotating list of espresso, French press, and pour over coffees. On mornings and weekends patrons line up for hot mini donuts. There is plenty of outdoor seating from where you can enjoy a nice menu of sandwiches, flat breads, and salads. If you’re short on time, all of the coffee and menu items are available through a call-ahead drive-through.

Gonza is a colorful Mexican restaurant that specializes in tacos and tequila. The interior is eclectic: mannequins greet diners at the door, and Mexican artifacts are mounted on the dining room walls. The menu is a burst of flavor, combining classic Mexican dishes alongside some surprises. Start with a pitcher of strawberry margarita and move on to tacos prepared with chicken tinga poblana, or a scallop and pork belly combination. Patrons can order food online for pickup.