Here is a quick guide to some of the best restaurants in the area. North Carolina is known for it's great bbq, but the Triangle area in particular has some of the best dining of anywhere in the country.
NC BBQ Society
- This website is a great resource for all things NC BBQ. The link will take you to the "BBQ Trail" page, where the best-of-the-best BBQ joints have been mapped out across the state. Allen & Sons BBQ is the Chapel Hill selection, and while I haven't eaten there, I have heard nothing but good things about this legendary local establishment.
George's Restaurant
- George's is locally owned and operated and absolutely delicious - we can personally attest to that! Located in downtown Henderson across from the Fire Station, we highly recommend this moderately-priced diner!
Smithfield's BBQ
- Smithfield's BBQ is a favorite of many of our friend's and very popular for Eastern NC-style chicken BBQ. The best part of Smithfield's is that there is a location in Henderson!
The Pit
- Featured on the TV show "Man vs. Food", The Pit is one of the best BBQ joints in North Carolina. It is located in Raleigh, NC.
Metro 8 Steakhouse
- This local gem is located on 9th Street in our home town of Durham. This restaurant is EXCELLENT and is very reasonably priced for a steakhouse ($20-$30 per person). Try the Churrasco and DEFINITELY get the Chocolate Souffle dessert!
Magnolia Grill
- Not only one of the best restaurants in NC but frequently mentioned in many lists of the best restaurants in the country (ranked #11 in Gourmet Magazine's "Top 50 Restaurants of 2006"), Magnolia Grill is is a true North Carolina gem. Located in Durham, Magnolia Grill features a seasonal menu with ingredients from local farms. From the website: "Our concept was straight-forward; punchy, market-driven, seasonal cooking; layers of flavor with a Southern sensibility and an international influence".
Mama Dips
- Mama Dips is a Franklin Street institution, famous for its Soul Food and Southern cuisine. Located in Chapel Hill about a mile from UNC.
Ted's Montana Grill
- Ted's Montana Grill is a local favorite of ours and specializes in Bison steaks and burgers! While Ted's is a chain throughtout the Southeast, we highly recommend it for anyone planning on visitng Durham or Raleigh.
Chick-Fil-A
- In 'N Out of the East! If you have to pick up fast food while you're here or maybe at the airport, definitely make it Chick-Fil-A - it will be, by far, the best tasting fastfood you will ever have!
