Raleigh has officially landed on the Michelin map, and the culinary spotlight has never shined brighter on our city. From whole-hog barbecue to refined French cuisine, these newly recognized restaurants showcase the depth, diversity, and creativity that define Raleigh’s dining scene. Here’s a quick look at the local standouts earning Michelin attention this year.

1. St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar

A Southern-meets-New-Orleans celebration of North Carolina seafood, led by chef Sunny Gerhart. Expect bold flavors, Creole influence, and cooking grounded in instinct and heritage.

2. Brewery Bhavana

Part brewery, part dim sum house, part flower shop, part bookstore—this Raleigh icon brings elegance, community, and globally inspired craft beers to Moore Square.

3. The Pit Authentic Barbecue

A cornerstone of North Carolina barbecue, serving whole-hog, pit-cooked tradition with contemporary Southern sides, national accolades, and a legacy of flavor.

4. Poole’s Diner

Ashley Christensen’s modern take on classic comfort food. A Raleigh legend since 1945, Poole’s continues to champion local ingredients and timeless hospitality.

5. Sam Jones BBQ

Carrying on a three-generation legacy of Eastern North Carolina whole-hog barbecue, Sam Jones serves tradition slow-cooked over wood with unmatched dedication.

6. Crawford and Son

A neighborhood favorite from chef Scott Crawford, offering honest, flavor-driven dishes that balance refined technique with comforting familiarity.

7. Jolie

Scott Crawford’s intimate French bistro inspired by Paris and his daughter, Jolie—featuring classic dishes, modern touches, and undeniable charm.

8. Stanbury

A playful, ingredient-driven spot where menus shift with the day’s offerings, celebrating local agriculture and the joy of shared food.

9. Mala Pata

This heirloom-corn-focused concept brings the ancient art of nixtamalization to Raleigh with Oaxacan corn and vibrant Latin American cooking.

10. Brodeto

Seafood-forward cuisine influenced by Southern Italy and Croatia, honoring the flavors of the Adriatic with coastal cocktails and regional wines.

11. Tamasha Modern Indian

A dramatic, luxurious take on Indian cuisine—where bold flavors meet grand, performance-inspired design and a fully elevated dining experience.

12. Herons

One of the world’s few Forbes Five-Star restaurants, Herons delivers artful, seasonal American cuisine inside The Umstead Hotel & Spa.

13. Prime Barbecue

Champion pitmaster Christopher Prieto blends the best BBQ traditions into one signature style—simple, high-quality, wood-smoked perfection.

14. Dampf Good BBQ

Texas-style barbecue crafted with passion, purpose, and faith by brothers Nick and Bryce Dampf—quickly becoming a Triangle favorite.

As Raleigh steps onto the Michelin stage, it’s clear that our culinary community is having a moment—and it’s only the beginning. From time-honored barbecue traditions to inventive global cuisine, these restaurants showcase the talent, heart, and flavor that make Raleigh one of the South’s most exciting dining destinations.