Econo Lodge

Pitmaster Christopher Prieto relocated from his native Texas to North Carolina, setting up Prime Barbecue just outside Raleigh in Knightdale. You'll need to arrive early, be prepared to wait and know that once they've run out of food, they'll close for the day. Expect all of the classics, including brisket and ribs plus pulled pork, all sold by their weight or ordered as a "meat and 2" with two scrumptious side dishes. Keep an eye out for their daily specials, especially on Saturday when they serve their chopped whole hog lechon. You won't be hungry, but a slice of pie or a banana pudding neve

It's all in the family at Sam Jones BBQ, where three generations of the same family have been perfecting their 'cue. This spot in downtown Raleigh (and another in Winterville) specializes in cooking Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue pork. They've been doing it their way, slow cooking the whole pig over burning embers, then chopping it all up and serving it with a vinegar-based sauce to cut through the richness of the meat, for years. Order a meat combo, which comes with sides and a sweet potato muffin or corn bread, and chase it with one of their beers on tap, brewed by the family in Winte

Brodeto occupies the ground floor of the former Raleigh Iron Works (RIW), now home to a hub of eateries, retail outlets and offices. The name, a nod to a fish stew found along the Adriatic coast, is the first hint that this restaurant takes its inspiration from the cuisines of Italy and Croatia. From crudo and must-have pasta dishes to wood-fired fish and meat to peka, a Croatian slow-cooked, fire-grilled dish with octopus and potatoes, and of course, the namesake brodeto, this menu is packed with appealing choices. You won't go wrong with any of the selections, but be sure to consult the wine

Owner Scott Crawford lends his name to this restaurant in Raleigh's beautiful, historic Oakwood neighborhood. This classic American place emanates an upscale, neighborhood feel, where a long bar counter dominates one side, and a banquette set with black marble-topped tables runs along the other.This is a kitchen that keeps things short and seasonal, though each dish sounds more enticing than the next. Manchego herb biscuits, served fresh from the oven, are a house specialty. Quality ingredients are left to shine in appetizers like smoked trout rillettes with grilled milk bread and main dishes

Sitting right next door to one of his other restaurants, Crawford and Son, Chef Scott Crawford has created his version of a classic French bistro in Historic Oakwood at Jolie. Inspired by family trips to Paris and named after his daughter, the menu blends French classics with more modern interpretations, marrying punchy flavors with clear respect for traditional techniques. Steak tartare and French onion soup are two signatures not to be skipped, as is the delicious rum-soaked baba. The wine list is strictly French; stop by and get a glass of bubbles from their champagne window out front or si

Tucked away in the sleepy Mordecai neighborhood in a former grocery store, Stanbury is a favorite with the locals. They don't take reservations, so you'll need to arrive early when they open around 4:30 pm or wait with a drink in hand on their decked terrace. The menu is as eclectic as the place itself (think hunting lodge with taxidermy). You'll find everything from European to Mexican dishes on this menu, including a roasted marrow with parsley and capers that feels straight out of London. While the menu leans international, North Carolina seasonal produce is always the centerpiece. You'll w

As the name suggests, beer does indeed figure largely here, but don't assume this Raleigh spot is just another pub. There are a number of beers to choose from, including seasonal supplements, but there's nary a burger in sight at this bistro-style restaurant. Instead, expect Chinese cuisine with a selection of dim sum that's perfect for lunch or as appetizers before a feast of their larger plates designed for sharing. Some dishes pack a little more heat than others. Peruse the flowers, local crafts and second-hand books for sale before or after your meal. There is a second location in nearby F