Looking for the next new restaurant hitting Oak City's food scene? Check out these buzzy places to eat and drink in Raleigh — plus, some spots coming soon. Keep tabs on this list and bookmark it to stay ahead of the culinary curve.

May openings

Cuya, Glenwood South | Latin American

Formerly Cortez, Cuya has a new look with a vibrant covered patio and all-day eats.

Chipotle, Bloc[83] | Fast-casual Mexican
Chipotle will open a downtown location at the southern end of Glenwood South near Vic’s Pizzeria and Dram & Draught.

April openings

Sunflower's Cafe, Rockway Raleigh | Cafe
Long-time Raleighites might remember Sunflower’s Café before it closed in 2019. Now, the beloved eatery is back, this time at Rockway, a new development near Dix Park. We can’t wait for tasty sandwiches, salads, and soups at this local fave.

Whataburger, multiple locations | Fast food burgers
The Texas burger chain is now open along Six Forks Road near Costco. Don't miss the fancy + spicy ketchups and Texas-sized burgers. Psst... the Falls of Neuse Road location near Winston’s Grille is also on its way.

Mezcalito, 1000 Social St., Ste. 140 | Mexican
Expect giant margaritas, Mexican classics, and great vibes at this local chain's newest outpost at 1000 Social.

Crooked Hammock, 4501 Edwards Mill Rd. | American
We're eyeing the burgers at this spot acclaimed for its laid-back vibe + taps.

March openings

Big Cat, 1000 Brookside Dr. | Global-inspired
This new eatery comes from a group of local heavy-hitters, and its vibrant menu features everything from NC oysters and nine-layer dip to za'atar waffle fries and spicy pork belly.

Littlefoot Matcha, 234 Fayetteville St. | Matcha
Downtown Raleigh’s smallest store now has a weekly matcha pop-up. Maison Neue is now home to Littlefoot Matcha on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the menu features bevs like a maple sesame matcha latte, matcha cortados, and optional salted honey cold foam.

February openings

Rosebud, 103 E. Martin St. | Cocktail bar
Named after the iconic “Citizen Kane” symbol, Rosebud is a sophisticated mid-century cocktail bar with an extensive vinyl collection, a “dealer’s choice” menu option for adventurous drinkers, and an ever-changing menu.

Velvet Taco, 1400 S. Saunders St. | Fusion tacos
Korean fried rice. Nashville hot tofu. Fish and chips. All of these are now in Raleigh in a tortilla thanks to Velvet Taco.

Trophy Brewing Five Points, 205 Bickett Blvd. | Brewery + tap room
This marks Trophy’s seventh space in Raleigh and it doubles as an event venue with indoor + outdoor spaces. Plus, expect more barrel-aged spirits and beers with all that ample storage.

Bar Marigold, 301 Hillsborough St. | Cocktail bar
Jubala's fourth location doesn't just serve coffee — at night, it turns into a classy cocktail bar with killer espresso martinis and inventive drinks.

Roots Natural Kitchen, 2712 Hillsborough St. | Build-your-own bowls
Choose the toppings in your filling bowl — we're eyeing the pesto Caesar and the Mayweather to fuel our day.

January openings

Barking Dog, 201 Park at North Hills St. | Dog-friendly cafe
This new eatery is perfect to sit and stay at, promising a neighborhood vibe and dog-friendly atmosphere.

Garlic Bay, 516 N. West St. | Sandwiches
This Smoky Hollow spot is serving up sammys like an Italian with spicy capicola, a beef sandwich with London broil meat, a tuna salad wrap, and other lunch options.

Nan Xiang Express, Hillsborough Street | Soup dumplings + noodle soups
Nan Xiang Express is known for its flavorful soup dumplings + noodle soups and is now open on Hillsborough Street near Cup A Joe and Ebisu, a Japanese import store.

Raising Cane's, 2420 Hillsborough St. | Fast food chicken | Projected opening: TBA
This simple chicken joint has become famous nationwide for its tenders and peppery Cane's Sauce.

Campo Taco Co., 1001 S. Saunders St. | Tex-Mex
Campo will serve bold tacos, handcrafted cocktails, and signature margaritas right near Gipson Play Plaza. The restaurant aims to connect with the community, celebrating fresh flavors and togetherness.

December openings

Capulet Cocktail Club, 1000 Social St., Ste. 110 | Upscale cocktail bar
Midtown’s first dedicated cocktail bar, opens its palatial doors with Renaissance grandeur and Italian spirits at the forefront. We’re eyeing original cocktails like the House of Capulet with bourbon and agarwood and a nonalcoholic take on the Cherry Bounce.

Dutch Bros Coffee, 971 Morrisville Pkwy., Morrisville | Coffee
The Triangle’s first Dutch Bros Coffee is now open in Morrisville near Trader Joe’s, and we can’t wait to get a taste. Expect flavored coffee faves like the Golden Eagle or the 9-1-1 with six shots of espresso. Psst... A Raleigh location is coming soon.

Everbowl, 7840 Alexander Promenade Place, Ste. 125 | Acai bowl Everbowl’s second Raleigh location is here, and we’re eyeing the layered bowls and vibrant smoothies.

Haraz Coffee House, 3915 Western Blvd. | Yemeni-style coffee
Open until 11 p.m., try Arabic-inspired drinks like the Saffron Adeni made with black tea, haraz spice, cream, and saffron or the Jubani coffee with cinnamon and ginger.

Sixty Vines, North Hills | Wine bar
This Dallas-based wine bar and restaurant's two-story eatery is now open as part of the office building One North Hills, serving plenty of wine on tap, top-notch brunch, and a patio space on both floors.

Tous Les Jours, 7 Seaboard Ave. | French-Asian bakery + cafe
Tous Les Jours is now open at Seaboard Station with pastries, cakes, espresso drinks, and plenty more for your sweet tooth.

Urban Olive, Transfer Co. Food Hall, 500 E. Davie St. | Mediterranean
We’re eyeing the loaded chicken shawarma fries, falafel bowl, and all the kebab platters.

November openings

Guthrie's, 2907 Wake Forest Rd. | Fast food chicken
This Alabama fast food chain is famous for its golden brown chicken tenders + tangy dipping sauce.

Benchwarmers Bagels, Rockway, 1015 S. Saunders St. | Bagels
This local favorite's second location is now open near Dix Park, and we're excited for more gourmet bagels and top-notch breakfast bites.

Drift Coffee, 3151 Elion Dr., Ste. C, Durham | Cafe
Drift’s next location at Hub RTP is now open with all your favorites from the Wade Avenue location, like the bodega breakfast sandwich and chicken pesto bowl. Next up: Drift’s third local location at The Weld.

Jubala + Bar Marigold, 301 Hillsborough St. | Coffee + bar
Jubala’s fourth location will moonlight as Bar Marigold with new cocktail inventions, classics, mocktails, and of course, plenty of espresso martinis.

Veloce Italian Market, City Plaza | Pizza
Veloce Italian Market is taking over the former home of Happy + Hale in City Plaza and serves fresh pizza, sandwiches, gourmet goods, plus a small bar. Even better? It’s from Anthony Rapillo, the chef behind V Pizza + Flour & Barrel.

Smash Social Club, Glenwood South | Bar + entertainment space
This new “social playground” is open in the former Carolina Ale House in Glenwood South. When you head to the 9,600 sqft entertainment space + restaurant, you’ll find table tennis, electric darts, and shuffleboard with upscale bites and craft cocktails to keep you going all night.

Andy's Frozen Custard, 340 E. Six Forks Rd. | Frozen treats
Midwest fave Andy’s Frozen Custard will open soon on Six Forks Road near Wegmans, joining another Andy’s in Raleigh + Morrisville. Get a taste of concretes, sundaes, custards, and Jackhammers — grab us a taste, too?

Saigon Kitchen, 321 S. Blount St. | Vietnamese
After dumpling restaurant MOFU Shoppe closed its doors in August, this Vietnamese spot took its place with pho, banh mis, and oxtail fried rice.

October openings

TOMI Sushi, 2020 Progress Ct., Ste. 150 | Japanese
Local restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias is back with another new eatery, this time focused on contemporary Japanese dining. Unlike some other sushi spots, TOMI keeps the menu simple. With just six signature rolls and four traditional, each roll is perfect as is.

Toastique, 1000 Social St., Ste. 130 | Breakfast + brunch
Toastique, a DC-based toast, smoothie bowl, and juice spot, is now open at The Exchange.

The Dry Cleaners, North Raleigh | Speakeasy
The folks behind the Hibernian, Aunty Betty’s Gin Bar, and Watts and Ward will open this moody speakeasy in — you guessed it — a former dry cleaning business.

Super Rad Retro Lounge, 106 Glenwood Ave. | Video game lounge
The lounge is family-friendly during the day and adult-centered at night, joining barcades like Boxcar and incoming Pins Mechanical Co.

September openings

Crofton’s Pretzels, 1400 S. Saunders St. | Pretzels
Expect Philadelphia-style pretzels stuffed with cheese, brownies, and more at this beach fave opening next to Riparian Provision Company and the NC State Farmers Market.

St. Pierre, Raleigh Iron Works | Wine bar
Anthony Guerra, owner of Oakwood Pizza Box, is the brains behind this new wine shop + bar. Expect a wide variety of vino and paired snacks crafted by Vivian Howard.

Bitter Social, 106 S. Wilmington St. | Bar
After 10 years on Wilmington Street, Gallo Pelon will shut its doors after its last service on Monday, May 5. The second floor will be taken over by Bittersweet for a new concept called Bitter Social.

Dave's Hot Chicken, 2920 Sherman Oak Place, Ste. 140 | Fast food chicken
Your chicken can be prepared with seven different heat levels, and the hottest, reaper, comes with its own waiver because it’s just that spicy.

Purple Spoon, 3801 Hillsborough St., Ste. 141 | Acai bowls
From Brazil to Oak City, you can now fill your cup with 100% organic acai at Hillsborough Street’s newest spot.

Mr. Henry, 413 Woodburn Rd. | Cocktail bar
Between Goodnights Comedy Club and winestore, Mr. Henry has a ritzy selection of classic cocktails, new concoctions, wine, and beer. Plus, the classy interior would make a great spot for a shopping break, drinks after dinner, or an upscale night out.

August openings

Oakwood Pizza Box, 1842 Wake Forest Rd. | Pizza
Oakwood Pizza Box is serving up fan-favorite pies in this take-out only location in the former home of Capital Creations.

Barrio Tacos and Tequila, 421 N. Harrington St. | Mexican
This build-your-own tacos + creative cocktails spot is set to open its first Raleigh location this summer.

Good Graces, 540 St. Albans Dr., Ste. 130 | Market, bar + eatery
Located in the North Hills Innovation District, you can expect a menu featuring Southern favorites, refreshing drinks + grab-and-go meals.

July openings

Nanny Goat, 3151 Elion Dr., Research Triangle Park | Boutique bodega
James Beard-nominated Chef Preeti Waas and her daughter Amy just opened Nanny Goat, the first retail spot at Horseshoe at Hub RTP. The store dishrd out chef-prepared meals, local goods, fresh produce, baked treats, coffee, and more. In their words: little store, big personality — we can’t wait to shop.

Wong’s Tacos, 4251 Parklake Ave. | Fusion
If you’ve ever contemplated Asian vs. Mexican cuisine for takeout, this newly opened spot can cure both cravings. Wong’s Tacos is now serving up fusion dishes daily on Parklake Avenue near Crabtree Valley Mall. Think: Moo shu mushroom tacos, tuna poke nachos, and more on the menu.

Blotto, 1601 New Bern Ave., Ste. 100 | Bar
East Raleigh’s newest bar has opened its door. Coming from the folks behind Neuse River Brewing Company, Blotto is a new divey spot serving beer, wine, and cocktails in a moody, reimagined space.

June openings

La Mala, 126 N. West St. | Mexican cocktail bar + restaurant
Durham-fave La Mala has opened in Raleigh across from the now-closed 42nd Street Oyster Bar. With Mexican-inspired cocktails, ceviche, tacos, and a huge patio, we think we’ve found our new summer spot.

Amrut, 120 E. Martin St. | Indian
Now open near 42 & Lawrence and Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, Amrut serves multi-regional Indian cuisine, including thukpa, a northeast Indian noodle soup, and faves like mango lassi and butter chicken.

Boatman Spirits Co., 713 Seaboard Station Dr. | Mediterranean + distillery
This new spot combines Mediterranean street food, locally distilled spirits, and a relaxing ambiance perfect for your next date night or special occasion.

Stellar, 1912 Bernard St. | Modern American
This new restaurant and wine bar opened its doors in High Park Village, home to J Betski’s and Timber Pizza Co. With a chic ambiance and weekly BYO vinyl record nights, this sounds like a great place for a date night.

Village Juice & Kitchen, 3701 Exchange Glenwood Pl. | Juices, bowls, and salads
Known for plant-based meals + juices, the menu includes salads, bowls, wraps, and smoothies.

Cup A Joe, 2109 Avent Ferry Rd., Ste. 142 | Coffee
The Mission Valley location of this fave is back in action with all your favorite drink specials and house-brewed java.

Coming Soon

Botiwalla, Raleigh Iron Works | Opening June 2
Botiwalla by Chai Pani, a famed Indian street grill restaurant based in Asheville, is coming to Raleigh. If you just can’t wait, you can visit the other locations in Charlotte and Asheville to try the masala smashed potatoes, Desi salad bowls, and tikka rolls before they land in Raleigh.

Songbird, East End Market | Bar + kitchen | Expected opening: June 2026
This new daylight-to-dusk bar will focus on seasonality, zero- and low-proof beverages, and ingredient-driven fare. Plus, it’s coming from hospitality pros Charlie Blue Arm and Meg Paradise, a name you might recognize from Umbrella Dry Bar.

La Victoria Cocina Mexicana, 2519 Fairview Rd. | Mexican | Projected opening: Fall 2026

La Victoria will take over the former Mandolin space in Five Points with Mexican classics and a full drink menu.

Churp, 3121 Edwards Mill Rd. | Fast-casual bowls | Projected opening: 2026

At this new health-forward fast-casual spot, from Happy + Hale, expect zero seed oils and organic bites.

Basic Brewing, 600 W. Cabarrus St. | Brewpub | Projected opening: Fall 2026

In Raleigh’s flourishing West End, expect pizzas, American fare, and locally brewed beers.

Cora, 701 N. Person St. | Spanish + Latin tapas | Projected opening: TBA

Cora is coming to the former home of The Station from the mind behind Mr. Burro food truck with an elevated selection of tapas.

Casa Nama, East End Market | Asian + Mexican fusion | Expected opening: TBA

From the folks behind Chido Taco, this new spot will combine Japanese and Mexican flavors in the former Giorgios Epicurean Market.

KOKORO Ramen & Izakaya, 200 E. Martin St. | Projected opening: Early 2026
City Market has a new tenant coming from a Southern Pines favorite. KOKORO Ramen & Izakaya will open in the former Royale space as soon as next spring. From the folks behind Neko Thai & Sushi, expect slurpable ramen and Japanese small plates.

The Common Market, Seaboard Station | Sandwiches, beer, and more | Projected opening: 2026
This marketplace, which you might know from its Durham location or three Charlotte outposts, will feature curated grocery items, local goods, grab-and-go options, coffee, beer + wine, made-to-order sandwiches, and a full-service bar.

Pizzeria Toro, The Common Market at Seaboard Station | Projected opening: 2026
Durham’s Pizzeria Toro is coming to Seaboard Station in a shared space with The Common Market. Opening up next summer, this wood-fired pizza spot has inventive pies, like an egg, mushroom, and arugula white pizza made to order.

Standard Beer + Food, North Hills Innovation District | American | Projected opening: April 2026
Known for killer smash burgers, innovative brunch bites, and refreshing brews + cocktails, this locally owned brewpub prides itself on sourcing fresh ingredients from partners like Raleigh City Farm, Joyce Farms, and Fox Farm & Forage.

Topsail Steamer, 5003 Falls of Neuse Rd. | Seafood | Projected opening: TBA
The beach fave that was featured on “Shark Tank” prides itself as aready-to-go seafood steamer bucket company.

Jaggers, 6711 Glenwood Ave. | Fast food | Projected opening: TBA
Jaggers, a subsidiary restaurant of Texas Roadhouse, will open in the former Mami Nora’s space, promising cheaper eats, like $10 or less burgers and chicken.

Mami Nora’s, Salvage Yard at Raleigh Iron Works | Latin | Projected opening: TBA
This Peruvian chicken restaurant will open at Salvage Yard in Raleigh Iron Works later this year following the sale of its original location on Wake Forest Road. Known for its Latin-style dishes like chicken, tostones, and maduros, the restaurant has been a local favorite for over a decade.

Dutch Bros, Edgewater Commons| Coffee | Projected opening: TBA
Dutch Bros opened its first Triangle location in Morrisville this fall, and Raleigh is next up. The drive-through spot specializes in inventive, bespoke drinks like the Golden Eagle, Annihilator, and the six-espresso-shot 911.

Taco Roos, 3940 Western Blvd. | Fast food tacos | Projected opening: TBA
Cook Out is expanding its Western Boulevard footprint by taking over the Subway next to its existing location for Taco Roos with menu items all under $3.99 each.

83 South, Bloc[83] | Bar + restaurant | Projected opening: TBA
A new bar + restaurant is coming to Bloc[83] called 83 South, and restaurateurs Anthony Rapillo and Katsuji Tanabe from Flour & Barrel are joining in, too. Expect a day-to-night spot with brunch, upscale bites, and a lounge environment.

42nd Street Oyster Bar, 508 W. Jones St. | Seafood | Projected opening: Unknown
Don’t call it a comeback. Rumors are swirling around the recently-closed 42nd Street Oyster Bar, and the local fave could return with a new ownership group. No promises, but we’re crossing our fingers.

Levant Bistro, 7400 Six Forks Rd. | Mediterranean + Middle Eastern | Projected opening: TBA
Levant, which closed its Lafayette Village restaurant + bakery in 2020, is coming back near Vinnie’s Steak House in North Raleigh. Anita Khalek has received weekly emails from Levant fans, and the new location will continue to serve up gluten- and soy-free breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Lewis Barbecue, Salvage Yard at Raleigh Iron Works | Texas-style barbecue | Projected opening: 2026
Charleston + Greenville, South Carolina barbecue spot Lewis Barbecue will join Salvage Yard at Raleigh Iron Works for its very first NC location. Just recently named a Michelin Bib Gourmand, this spot serves Texas-style brisket, Southern sides, and more slow-cooked meats courtesy of the Lone Star State.

Shinjuku Station, Capital Marketplace | Sushi | Expected opening: TBA
Known for its rotating sushi bar, Shinjuku Station is set to open at Capital Marketplace in northeast Raleigh. This would be the chain’s second NC location, joining High Point, with more planned across the state. The menu features nigiri, specialty rolls, and classic sushi favorites.

Hangry Joe's Hot Chicken, Quail Corners | Fast-food chicken | Expected opening: Summer 2026
Feeling hangry? This hot chicken spot is set to open later this year, and our mouths are already watering.

Vic's Pizzeria, 5434 Six Forks Rd. | Italian | Expected opening: Spring 2026
Vic’s will open a new North Raleigh location at the corner of Six Forks and Millbrook, and this new spot will include a drive thru for pick-up orders.

Biddy Thomas, Gateway Plaza | Southern-inspired | Expected opening: Spring 2026
This new “urban oasis” is set to open in Gateway Plaza this spring with games, Southern-inspired bites, cocktails, and so much more. This might be the next spot for your mahjong group.

Jubala, North Hills | Coffee shop | Expected opening: TBA
Jubala Coffee will open its fifth cafe in the Main District of North Hills between Alo Yoga and jewelry store Gorjana. Plus, it joins the Park District location for its second in North Hills.