Best Restaurants in Cary (2025)

Cary’s destination dining room pairs refined Southern ideas with produce from its own farm, guided by executive chef Steven Devereaux Greene. Frequently praised by Food & Wine and Condé Nast Traveler and featured by Eater Carolinas, it holds a Forbes Five-Star distinction and, in 2025, broadened beyond tasting menus with elegant à la carte options. If you want to taste the region at its most polished, this is the benchmark.

Husband-and-wife owners Zach and Amber Faulisi turn out crackling, wood-fired pies from a Neapolitan oven, plus simple salads and Italian desserts. Lauded by The News & Observer and regularly cited by local critics, it helped energize downtown Cary’s dining scene. Arrive early—lines move, but the margherita and funghi sell fast.

Despite the name, Hank’s is a chef-driven hangout: North Carolina seafood, seasonal small plates, and serious cocktails in a moody, music-friendly room. It’s a frequent Eater Carolinas pick and a Cary Magazine reader favorite for date night. The menu changes often; the bottled dirty martini and gluten‑free fried chicken have a cult following.

A downtown mainstay beloved for Taiwanese and Sichuan specialties, generous portions, and fair prices. Editors at Eater Carolinas call out its scallion beef pancake roll and soup dumplings, while local writers consistently praise the homestyle comfort. It’s unfussy, reliably busy, and quintessentially Cary.

Master baker Lionel Vatinet’s artisan boulangerie anchors Cary’s daily bread—literally. Beyond world‑class loaves, the café turns out quiche, tartines, and brunch plates tied to the seasons. Featured by Southern Living and Eater Carolinas, it’s where Cary’s culinary day often begins.

This modern American spot helped reframe hotel dining in downtown Cary with a bright room, a roomy patio facing Downtown Cary Park, and a menu that leans Southern—think shrimp and grits, Hoppin’ John, and a strong brunch. Recognized by Eater Carolinas’ Triangle heatmap and honored by Cary Magazine readers, it’s a stylish all‑day choice.

Chef Michael Lee’s team uses this intimate Fenton dining room as a creative lab for Pan‑Asian small plates—lobster shumai to green‑curry fish—served as they’re ready. Editors at Eater Carolinas list it among Cary’s essentials; locals come for the changing menu and thoughtful pacing.

Top Chef alum Katsuji Tanabe channels Mexico City energy into playful, polished plates and a lively bar program. Frequently cited by Eater Carolinas and celebrated by Cary Magazine readers, a’Verde balances showmanship with sincerity—octopus and chorizo tacos one minute, abuela’s cornbread the next.

This Black‑ and woman‑owned spot channels Carolina fish‑camp spirit with fried shrimp, blackened catfish, and hushpuppies done right. Eater Carolinas highlights it among Cary’s essentials; regulars cite friendly service, honest portions, and that irresistibly crisp fry.

A family‑run Turkish institution where warm hospitality meets handmade pide, grilled meats, and bright meze. Southern Living calls it out among Cary’s must‑try spots, and Cary Magazine readers keep it near the top of Mediterranean favorites. Bring friends and share widely.

Celebrated for homestyle Bihari flavors and allergy‑aware cooking, this independent café won Cary Magazine’s Best Indian Restaurant in 2024 and 2025. Expect rich curries, thoughtful spice, and the kind of warmth that turns newcomers into regulars.

A chic downtown newcomer blending approachable sushi with polished small plates and a lively bar. Named Best New Restaurant in Cary Magazine’s 2025 Maggy Awards and listed by local tourism guides, it’s a stylish stop before a show at The Cary Theater or a stroll through the park.