The Best Street Food Spots in Raleigh
Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant hub for street food enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. From the bustling Morgan Street Food Hall, where visitors can savor meals from various vendors in a shared seating area, to the community-focused Transfer Co. Food Hall, which supports local oyster bars and non-profit organizations, there is something for everyone. For a taste of authentic southern cuisine, Big Ed's City Market Restaurant is a must-visit, while The Katsu offers mouthwatering Japanese dishes like crispy chicken katsu. Mellow Mushroom Raleigh is known for its bold ingredient combinations on homemade crusts, and Parkside Restaurant, located in the Warehouse District, promises a diverse and flavorful street food experience. GreeTalian Grill Food Truck serves up Mediterranean delights, while Buena Papa Fry Bar adds excitement and spice to classic French fries. MOFU Dumpling Shoppe offers a unique Asian-inspired menu, and Irregardless Café provides a farm-to-table dining experience with live music. For a fine dining experience, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is the place to go, while Makus Empanadas specializes in authentic Argentinian baked empanadas. A Place at the Table is a community-focused pay-what-you-can cafe, and bul box offers convenient street food dishes served in boxes. The Pit Authentic Barbecue satisfies barbecue cravings with curbside pickup and delivery options, and The Fiction Kitchen offers a vegetarian and vegan-friendly twist on street food classics. With such a diverse and exciting street food scene, Raleigh is a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Morgan Street Food Hall in Raleigh, North Carolina is a vibrant and exciting lifestyle dining concept that goes beyond the traditional food court experience. This unique establishment showcases a variety of local eateries, restaurants, and food retailers, making it a must-visit destination for street food enthusiasts. One of the standout features of Morgan Street Food Hall is the concept of cross meal ordering, allowing visitors to savor different meals from various vendors while enjoying the shared seating area. With its focus on local flavors and diverse culinary offerings, this food hall is a true gem for anyone looking to explore the vibrant street food scene in Raleigh.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Transfer Co. Food Hall is a vibrant street food destination located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Situated in downtown's historic Olde East neighborhood, this food hall, market, and gathering place is built around the power of food to connect people. Transfer Co. Food Hall offers a diverse range of street food options, allowing visitors to indulge in a variety of culinary delights. From local oyster bars serving up roasted oysters with herb butter and lemon to non-profit organizations like The Produce Project, which provides access to fresh produce, this food hall truly embodies the spirit of community and delicious street food. Whether you're craving seafood or looking to support a good cause, Transfer Co. Food Hall is the place to be. Visit their website for more information and to plan your street food adventure.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Side Street Restaurant is a locally family-owned establishment located in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. With 41 years of experience, they specialize in serving gourmet sandwiches, salads, homemade soups, quiche, and desserts made from scratch. If you're looking for a delicious and authentic street food experience in Raleigh, Side Street Restaurant is the place to go.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Big Ed's City Market Restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina is a must-visit for lovers of southern cuisine. This authentic street food establishment specializes in breakfast and country cookin' that will leave you craving for more. From the moment you step in, you'll be greeted with warm hospitality and a menu filled with classic southern staples. Whether you're in the mood for fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, or hearty biscuits and gravy, Big Ed's has got you covered. They serve breakfast from open until close, ensuring that you can satisfy your cravings any time of the day. Don't miss out on this delightful spot for a true taste of southern street food. Visit their website for more information: Big Ed's City Market Restaurant
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
The Katsu is a street food establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This authentic eatery offers a variety of delicious Japanese dishes, with a focus on katsu, a popular breaded and deep-fried meat or vegetable dish. From crispy chicken katsu to flavorful pork katsu, The Katsu serves up mouthwatering options that are sure to satisfy any street food lover. Whether you're craving a quick bite or a filling meal, this Raleigh gem is a must-visit for those seeking a taste of Japan's street food scene.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Mellow Mushroom Raleigh is a popular street food establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Known for serving the best pizza in town, this eclectic restaurant is situated on West Peace Street in the north end of the Glenwood South District. Locals from Glenwood South, Five Points, Brooklyn Heights, Cameron Park, Downtown Raleigh, and the surrounding areas flock to Mellow Mushroom for their bold ingredient combinations on a homemade crust, resulting in the most delicious pies around. But if pizza isn't your thing, don't worry! Mellow Mushroom also offers a variety of other options such as calzones, hoagies, sandwiches, burgers, and salads. Each item on the menu is crafted with care and attention to detail. Additionally, Mellow Mushroom boasts an impressive selection of 20 draft beers and handcrafted cocktails to complement your meal. For those with dietary restrictions, many of their pizzas can be made gluten-free or vegan. Don't miss out on their Spinach Artichoke Dip, a rich blend of five cheeses baked with spinach and artichokes, served with garlic toast points. Another popular choice is their Pretzel Bites, made with their classic dough and tossed in garlic butter and Parmesan, served with your choice of classic or spicy Pabst Blue Ribbon™ beer cheese. Mellow Mushroom Raleigh is the perfect spot to satisfy your street food cravings in a fun and creative environment.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Parkside Restaurant is a downtown Raleigh establishment located at the entrance of the Warehouse District. Situated on the corner of West Martin and South Dawson streets, it offers a prime location across from historic Nash Square. Inspired by the urban park, one of the four original parks downtown, Parkside takes its name from this vibrant setting. While the information provided does not specify the type of cuisine or street food served, the restaurant's location and urban inspiration suggest a potential for diverse and flavorful offerings. For more information, visit their website at parksiderestaurant.com.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
GreeTalian Grill Food Truck is a popular street food establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Situated in front of Meredith College and next to Waffle House, this food truck offers a delightful selection of Mediterranean food and sweets. Their specialty is shawarma, which can be enjoyed in both regular and spicy variations. The shawarmas are freshly made, flavorful, and served warm. Customers have praised the quality and taste of the food, with the beef shawarma being a standout item. Despite the name, the menu does not feature Greek or Italian cuisine, but the delicious offerings make up for it. With late-night hours, this food truck is a great option for a quick and tasty bite to eat in Raleigh.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Buena Papa Fry Bar is a street food establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This Colombian-inspired, Latin-infused fry bar offers hand-cut, made-to-order gourmet French fries with delicious premium toppings. The familiar taste of crispy, creamy French fries is elevated with the bright, bursting flavors of Latin America. From adventurous loaded fries to flavor explosions with natural juices, Buena Papa Fry Bar is the perfect place to add excitement and spice to your day. Come and explore all the delicious toppings they have to offer and let your taste buds thank you for the flavorful adventure.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
MOFU Dumpling Shoppe is an authentic Asian-inspired eatery and bar located in the heart of historic City Market in downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. This airy restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a menu inspired by foods commonly eaten in several Asian countries, including influences from Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Laos, and more. The dishes at MOFU Dumpling Shoppe are reimagined renditions of Asian classics, blending flavors and showcasing the love for Asian cuisine. Guests can mix and match small plates and snacks, share entrees, and indulge in something sweet or a dessert sake to complete their meal. The restaurant also caters to dietary preferences with excellent gluten-free and vegetarian options. With its diverse culinary offerings and specialty cocktails, MOFU Dumpling Shoppe is a must-visit destination for street food enthusiasts in Raleigh.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Irregardless Café is an authentic street food establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Since 1975, this award-winning restaurant has been offering a farm-to-table dining experience sourced from their own 'Well Fed Community Garden'. Known for their vegetarian options, Irregardless Café was named one of OpenTable's Top 50 Vegetarian Restaurants in the U.S. and INDYWeek's Best Salad in Wake County in 2019. Guests can enjoy live music while dining every night of the week, and on Saturday nights, larger bands perform dinner and dancing shows starting at 9pm. With its inclusive atmosphere and delicious food, Irregardless Café is a must-visit spot for street food enthusiasts in Raleigh.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is a fine dining establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Housed in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House, this restaurant offers a classic dining experience with an atmosphere of classical history and elegance. While it may not be a traditional street food establishment, Second Empire is known for its exquisite cuisine and world-class wine selection. The menu at Second Empire is carefully crafted, and the restaurant has received prestigious awards such as the AAA Four Diamond Award, the DiRoNa Award, and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence since 1998. Whether you choose to dine in the formal dining room or the more casual Tavern and Atrium Room, a visit to Second Empire promises a unique and unforgettable dining experience.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
Makus Empanadas is a locally owned restaurant located in Raleigh, North Carolina. They specialize in serving authentic Argentinian baked empanadas to the Triangle area. With a focus on quality and flavor, Makus Empanadas offers a variety of delicious fillings encased in a flaky pastry shell. Whether you're craving traditional beef, chicken, or vegetarian options, Makus Empanadas has something to satisfy every palate. Don't miss out on this delightful street food experience in Raleigh! Visit their website for more information: Makus Empanadas
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
A Place at the Table is a pay-what-you-can cafe located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This community-focused restaurant offers a variety of delicious street food options, including the popular turkey gouda melt and barbecue chips. Customers rave about the brown sugar cinnamon oat milk latte and the impeccable service. What sets this establishment apart is its mission to provide hot meals to anyone, regardless of their means. So, not only can you enjoy a tasty meal here, but you'll also be supporting the local community.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
bul box is a street food establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. They offer a variety of delicious dishes served in convenient boxes. Their motto is "Life's better with a Box. What's in your Box?" which reflects their focus on providing a unique and enjoyable street food experience. For more information, you can visit their website at bul-box.com.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
The Pit Authentic Barbecue in Raleigh, North Carolina is a must-visit for barbecue lovers. This establishment is known for serving the tastiest pork in the area, making it a go-to spot for those craving authentic Southern barbecue. While it may not be a traditional street food establishment, The Pit offers curbside pickup and delivery options, making it convenient for customers to enjoy their delicious barbecue at home. Whether you're in the mood for pulled pork, ribs, or brisket, The Pit Authentic Barbecue is the place to satisfy your barbecue cravings. Visit their website at thepit-raleigh.com for more information.
Image for flavor inspiration – actual dish might look different.
The Fiction Kitchen is a street food gem located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant offers a unique twist on street food classics. With a focus on plant-based ingredients, The Fiction Kitchen serves up delicious and creative dishes that are sure to satisfy any food lover. From their mouthwatering vegan burgers to their flavorful tacos and bowls, there is something for everyone at The Fiction Kitchen. Don't miss out on their famous sweet potato tots or their delectable vegan desserts. Whether you're a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to try something new, The Fiction Kitchen is a must-visit spot for street food enthusiasts in Raleigh.
