Diners' Choice: Innovative restaurants in Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill
OpenTable
Updated 05 May 2025
Looking for the best restaurants that are fit for foodies in Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill? You’re in the right place. Each month, OpenTable analyses nearly 2 million global diner reviews from the past four months. We sort the results by location and category to help you discover new favourite restaurants. It's a great partnership: you book, eat, and review. We listen...and deliver the results for all to benefit. Enjoy!
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
J
Jacqueline
Dined 2 days ago
About the restaurant
Located in the heart of downtown Durham, M Pocha is a vibrant dining destination that brings the energy and flavors of Korean Pojangmacha to life. A modern twist on the traditional "tented street carts" of Korea, M Pocha offers an intimate, casual setting where friends gather to share exceptional food, creative cocktails, and great conversation.Led by locally renowned Chef Michael Lee and part of the esteemed M Restaurant Group, our menu celebrates Asian fusion cuisine with a special focus on bold Korean-inspired flavors. From small plates perfect for sharing to signature dishes crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, M Pocha delivers a culinary experience as dynamic as the city we call home.
Whether you’re stopping by for a cozy night out or an exciting taste adventure, M Pocha promises a warm, welcoming atmosphere and unforgettable dishes. Join us and discover why we’re one of Durham’s most talked-about dining spots!
Top review
M
McCoy
Dined on 19 Apr 2025
About the restaurant
Tucked inside Little Native Coffee Co., the "Littlest Tea Room" is Raleigh's first SpeakTEAsy and offers a cozy speakeasy-style retreat with a "dark academia" vibe. Dress to impress or come as you are—either way, you’ll love the ambiance and charm. Our space is perfect for intimate gatherings or a casual, but unique afternoon escape. Reserve your spot today! Private bookings available! ......................................................................................................................................................................................................
PARTIES OF MORE THAN (4) PEOPLE - Please email LittlestTeaRoom@gmail.com as parties of 4+take up multiple tables and need to be manually added. PLEASE DO NOT CALL THE COFFEE SHOP. Our baristas cannot add reservations.
Top review
S
Sally
Dined 7 days ago
About the restaurant
Indulge in the pinnacle of refined fine dining in Raleigh at Jalwa Indian Bistro, where our sophisticated ambiance embodies the essence of elegance and poise. As we present a harmonious symphony of flavors and opulence that will delight your senses, courtesy of our exquisite Modern Indian Cuisine. Our dishes are meticulously crafted by our Executive Chef, the Internationally Acclaimed Chef Mukesh Gautam, ensuring an unforgettable gastronomic experience. Whether you seek an intimate sojourn, a celebratory gathering, or a sublime culinary escapade in the heart of Raleigh, Jalwa Indian Bistro is the quintessential destination for every occasion, offering an unparalleled level of epicurean excellence in fine dining.
Top review
C
Chandrika
Dined 1 day ago
About the restaurant
Elements is OPEN for DINE IN & TAKEOUT! From the moment you walk in to the last delicious morsel you will taste, we promise to deliver a unique and exquisite dining experience. Our cuisine combines classical as well as modern Asian and European cooking techniques to enhance the flavors of local and sustainable ingredients. Our menu changes often to capitalize on the freshest and most seasonal fare. We believe George Barnard Shaw said it best when he said. There is no love sincerer than the love of food." We couldn't agree more. From fork to mouth, we wish you good eats.
Elements Team
Top review
E
Erin
Dined 2 days ago
About the restaurant
Yummy & delicious.
Laotian street food from celebrated chef Lon Bounsanga
Top review
L
Logan
Dined 5 days ago
About the restaurant
Filipino Kitchen Re-Imagined by Chef Karl & Chef PaulaAt Krill, every dish tells a story-one of tradition, family, and the deep-rooted heritage of Filipino cuisine. Created by the talented Chef Karl and Chef Paula, our menu celebrates recipes that have been lovingly passed down through generations.
We’re offering a taste of home, reimagined. Our mission is to elevate Filipino cuisine, bringing its vibrant flavors to the forefront in a way that feels both timeless and innovative.
The heart of our team is built on family, with Dona leading as the General Manager and Evan as Bar Manager, together we strive to create an elevated dining experience for all who walk through our doors, introducing guests to the rich cultural heritage and dynamic flavors of the Philippines.
Join us for an unforgettable journey through Filipino cuisine, where tradition meets modern creativity, and every meal is an experience to remember. Welcome to Krill—your new favorite Filipino kitchen, re-imagined.
Top review
W
Wen-WenVIP
Dined on 26 Apr 2025
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About the restaurant
Located in Cary’s Fenton shopping center, M Test Kitchen redefines upscale dining with its innovative approach to classic Asian cuisine. This newest concept from renowned Chef Michael Lee and the acclaimed M Restaurant Group blends timeless flavors with contemporary flair, creating a dining experience that’s both refined and approachable.At M Test Kitchen, we take beloved dishes like fried rice, dumplings, and more to extraordinary heights, infusing them with bold, unexpected flavor profiles that are sure to surprise and delight. Set against the backdrop of a sleek, industrial-chic interior, our space invites you to unwind, savor creative cocktails, and share unforgettable meals with friends.
Perfectly situated in Fenton’s vibrant and upscale atmosphere, M Test Kitchen offers a unique culinary journey that celebrates the art of Asian fusion. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual evening or a special occasion, we’re here to make every visit exceptional.
Top review
T
Terry
Dined 1 day ago
About the restaurant
Marian is an intimate tapas and cocktail bar in the heart of Glenwood South, redefining the art of shared plates and craft drinks. Inspired by the vibrancy of European and Latin flavors, our menu is a bold fusion of plant-based innovation and timeless culinary techniques. Each dish is a conversation starter, designed to surprise and delight with unexpected textures and flavors. Beyond the plate, Marian is an experience—an inviting, candlelit escape where handcrafted cocktails meet carefully curated wines and spirits. Whether you're indulging in a leisurely evening with friends or seeking a cozy corner for a date night, Marian blends elegance with a relaxed, neighborhood feel.
Tucked away yet central to the pulse of Raleigh’s nightlife, Marian is more than a restaurant—it’s a destination for those who crave something different. Come discover us, and let every bite and sip transport you somewhere new.
Top review
M
Michael
Dined 6 days ago
About the restaurant
Flying Bull Restaurant and Brewery is a veteran and woman owned business located in the heart of Durham’s Innovation District. Using only the best seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, ou scratch kitchen serves your favorite American Classics as well as regional favorites. This is not just your average pub menu! The Flying Bull proves that craft beer and elevated cuisine are a perfect pairing. We also offer an extensive wine list and full service cocktail bar. Looking to host a special event for business or family occasion? Our large beer hall is the perfect solution. Prix fixe full menu or catered hors d’oeuvres available. Whether you’re looking for a meal with family or friends before the theatre, business or date night, or even a little Latin music with your beverage, our friendly and courteous staff will make sure your visit is a wonderful experience.
Top review
J
Judt
Dined 4 days ago
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