Picture this: You're trying to find a place to eat after a hectic weekend or on a Monday-falling birthday or anniversary — it can be hard to find an upscale spot. Don't fret — here are nine Raleigh restaurants open Mondays.

42nd Street Oyster Bar, 508 W. Jones St. | Monday, 5-9 p.m. | Dine on high-quality seafood any day of the week— and don't skip the oysters.

Barcelona Wine Bar, 430 W. Martin St. | Monday, 4 p.m. 'til late; happy hour 4-6 p.m. | Who says wine porrons have to stop once the weekend is over? In addition to nearly 400 wines, snack on tapas and charcuterie.

Bida Manda, 222 S. Blount St. | Monday, 5-10 p.m. | Try Laotian dishes like khao poon gai, duck laab, and a Thai Tea Frenzy cocktail.

Death & Taxes, 105 W. Hargett St. | Monday, 5-9 p.m. | This Ashley Christensen spot honors wood-fired cooking — we're partial to watching the kitchen do its thing while trying NC-sourced dishes.

Gravy, 135 S. Wilmington St.| Monday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. | Enjoy authentic red sauce + Italian fare for lunch and dinner every day of the week.

Oak Steakhouse, 417 W. Hargett St. | Monday, 5-9 p.m. | The steak isn't the only mouthwatering item on the menu — try the NC-sourced shrimp cocktail, grilled Spanish octopus, and roasted bone marrow.

Poole's, 426 S. McDowell St. | Monday, 5-10 p.m. | What more can you say about this iconic Raleigh restaurant? Don't miss the return of former neighbor Poole'side Pie's pickle juice caesar.

Sitti, 137 S. Wilmington St. | Monday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. | Authentic Lebanese-style food is at your fingertips seven days a week downtown.

Whiskey Kitchen, 201 W. Martin St. | Monday, 5 p.m. to midnight | This eatery features over 300 different whiskeys that pair perfectly with bites from the kitchen.

Did we skip your favorite? Call it a case of the Mondays. Share your fave Monday spot.