Diners' Choice: American restaurants in Raleigh

OpenTable

Updated June 05, 2025

Looking for restaurants with the best overall American cuisine in Raleigh? You’re in the right place. Each month OpenTable analyzes more than 400,000 new diner reviews. We sort the results by category to help you discover new favorites. It's a great partnership: you reserve, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!

Oxford Oaks Distillery

5.0

5 (291)

$30 and under

American

Oxford

About the restaurant

seeking a memorable dining experience, Oxford Oaks Distillery is the perfect destination. Located in historic Oxford, North Carolina, this establishment combines upscale dining with handcrafted spirits in a warm, inviting atmosphere. As you enter, the elegant décor and exposed brick walls set the stage for a culinary adventure. The enticing aromas of freshly baked bread and sizzling steaks will awaken your senses. The menu features a variety of dishes made from the finest seasonal ingredients, including appetizers like housemade crab dip and tuna tataki. For the main course, choose from succulent steaks, perfectly seared seafood, or delicious vegetarian options, each crafted with care and artistry. To enhance your meal, explore Oxford Oaks' extensive bar, which includes their own handcrafted spirits and a curated selection of wines and craft beers. Whether celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a night out, Oxford Oaks Distillery promises an unforgettable experience.

Top review

Peggy

Dined on Jun 13, 2025

Friendly, prompt service by all staff. Food and drinks were delicious and fresh. One of the best outings and food we have experienced.

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4.9

4.9 (3223)

$50 and over

American

Cary

About the restaurant

Herons, the signature restaurant at The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, North Carolina, offers an exceptional fine dining experience for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch. Located close to Raleigh, North Carolina, Herons is known for its locally inspired, seasonal menus and stunning garden views, Herons showcases a full-view kitchen and an elegant, art-filled dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows. Every detail—from the fresh, regionally sourced ingredients to the curated wine list—reflects a commitment to artistry and culinary excellence.

Top review

Pamela

Dined 3 days ago

Lovely experience, food was great, service was very good and the ambiance was lovely.

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4.8

4.8 (2559)

$31 to $50

American

Raleigh

About the restaurant

Seasons 52 is a Fresh Grill and Wine Bar offering a seasonal menu that is naturally lighter and always flavorful. Our seasonal menus feature ingredients at their peak of freshness, oak-fire grilled or brick oven roasted (without a fryer in sight) to be naturally lighter and more flavorful. We also offer an extensive list of wines by the glass and bottle. Here, you'll always feel free to enjoy every bite, every sip, every moment. Lunch and dinner daily with happy hour Monday-Friday from 3-6PM.

Top review

Natalie

Dined 7 days ago

Seasons 52 has hit that sweet spot; classy in an understated way. Service is terrific and food is excellent, and considering what many restaurants are charging for an average meal, the prices are reasonable. I highly recommend you give them a try.

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Popular dish

Lump Crab Cake Sandwich

Popular dish

Lump Crab And Shrimp-Stuffed Mushrooms

Simply Crepes Cafe of Raleigh

4.8

4.8 (212)

$30 and under

American

Raleigh

About the restaurant

A full-service restaurant and bar. Offers progressively traditional, French Canadian farmhouse vibes. Scratch-made comfort food is handcrafted in our kitchen using fresh meats, produce, signature sauces and dressings.

Menu Musings: Nosh on some of fan favorites for breakfast like French toast, Maple Sausage Stackers, oatmeal creme brulee, simply strawberry crepes. Lunch can be healthy! Many gluten and dairy free options. Try a Mediterranean Chicken (or make it vegetarian with tofu). Vegan friends love the Thai Curry Crepe. Food Network has featured our Rugby Crepe on The Best Thing I Ever Ate. Try it, is it the best?! Come for dinner and grab a burger or fried chicken sandwich. After dinner nutella dessert crepes - yes!

Top review

Isabella

Dined 2 days ago

The service was very good but later on we had to wait a while to get our checks

Winston's Grille

4.8

4.8 (2006)

$31 to $50

American

Raleigh

About the restaurant

Established in 1986, Winston's Grille is dedicated to making "everyday dining experiences lasting memories" for over 36 years. Traditional, American fare dishes, made "from scratch", located in North Raleigh in the Sutton Square Shopping Center. We pride ourselves on consistently serving excellent food and service.

Start your dining experience with one of our famous appetizers like the Carolina Crab Dip, Bruschetta, or Jam Jam Shrimp. Enjoy a glass of Chardonnay or locally crafted beer on our award winning, expansive heated patio. Our menu offers crowd favorites such as our Hand Rolled Sushi, Cashew Salmon, Black and Bleu Salad, Winston's Old Fashioned Burger, Winston's Prime Rib and many more. We offer daily features, gluten-free options, and vegan & vegetarian choices. No visit to Winston's Grille is complete without trying our homemade ice cream. After dining at Winston's Grille, we want you to be asking yourself "when are you coming back, rather than where you'll go next".

Top review

brittney

Dined on Jun 23, 2025

Wonderful service and staff! Our meal was amazing as we celebrated my husband’s birthday. Keegan, our server was wonderful and took great care of us. Great experience!

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Popular dish

Chicken Pasta

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill - Raleigh

4.7

4.7 (3857)

$30 and under

American

Raleigh

About the restaurant

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill is your destination for bold flavors and warm hospitality. From expertly crafted wood-fired steaks and fresh seafood to signature cocktails, mocktails, and curated wines, every detail is designed to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you're gathering with family, hosting a client, or toasting to a special occasion, Firebirds offers elevated cuisine at an approachable price. Join us for Happy Hour at the FIREBAR® or on the patio and let us show you what extraordinary dining feels like. Reserve your table today — we can’t wait to serve you.

Top review

Chris

Dined 3 days ago

Very accommodating with reservations will definitely be back

Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen - Cary

4.7

4.7 (6208)

$30 and under

American

Cary

About the restaurant

Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen in Cary features exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes made with plenty of local ingredients. We will open back up soon for dining in our restaurant in our dining room that's been prepared for safe distancing and Veranda garden. View photos of our new seasonal features available for takeout on our website at lucky32.com.

Top review

Cheryl

Dined 7 days ago

Great Food! Great Customer Service! My party was very satisfied with everything!

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Bacon Wrapped Meatloaf

Doc B's Restaurant- Cary

4.6

4.6 (131)

$31 to $50

American

Cary

About the restaurant

Set in a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, Doc B's Restaurant serves food made from scratch daily. Incorporating the highest-quality ingredients, the menu includes a variety of "very special” entrees, crave-worthy burgers and sandwiches, signature Wok Out Bowls™, delicious salads, indulgent desserts and so much more. Doc B’s also impresses with an extensive locally curated craft beer offering, wine and spirits selection in addition to signature cocktails. No matter what occasion, the expansive menu truly offers something for everyone. With each location having its own personality, Doc B’s Cary at Fenton offers a large, vibrant outdoor patio with a gorgeous pergola, furnished with heaters, misters and fans so guests can enjoy Fenton Square in all seasons. Finally, the expansive bar with six tv's adjacent to the plush lounge, are perfect for mingling with friends and social gatherings.

Top review

James

Dined on Jun 23, 2025

Fantastic. Went for date night and enjoyed it so much.

Napa Bistro & Wine Bar - Glenwood Place

4.6

4.6 (36)

$31 to $50

American

Raleigh

About the restaurant

Napa Bistro & Wine Bar is a new dining destination in Glenwood Place, Raleigh, inspired by the flavors of Napa Valley. This restaurant offers an elevated experience with exquisite wine country cuisine, curated cocktails, and a thoughtfully selected wine list. Perfect for brunches, happy hours, and date nights, Napa Bistro & Wine Bar features a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere for any occasion. Expect a menu filled with dishes that highlight fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors inspired by California's wine country. The extensive wine list focuses on California varietals, ensuring a great selection for both connoisseurs and newcomers. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to help you choose the perfect bottle to enhance your meal. Additionally, enjoy handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients, crafted by skilled mixologists. Join us at Napa Bistro & Wine Bar for a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of California wine country.

Top review

Marleen

Dined 2 days ago

The service was fantastic! Food and drink, delicious! Lovely decor, great atmosphere!

East Cafe

4.6

4.6 (93)

$30 and under

American

Raleigh

About the restaurant

Enjoy lunch with the most breath taking view in Raleigh, the Museum Park at the North Carolina Museum of Art. Located in C level of the East Building, the East Café offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and Barista crafted coffee and tea beverages. Indoor and patio seating!

Top review

OpenTable Diner

Dined on Mar 24, 2025

Attended a tea event at East Cafe, and it was an absolute delight! The staff was incredibly welcoming and attentive, making the experience even more enjoyable. The food was beyond expectations—beautifully prepared and full of flavor. The cucumber mint cilantro tea sandwich was my favorite savory option, and the lavender honey scone was so delicious. But the real highlight was the tea itself—a true experience that showcased quality and tradition. Highly recommend for anyone looking to indulge in a unique and memorable tea event! Had the best time catching up with old friends, and can’t wait to bring my mom for the Mother’s Day tea event.

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