Best Brunch in Raleigh (2025)

Chef Colleen Speaks channels New Orleans spirit into a lively weekend brunch of chicken and waffles, quiche, oysters, and bright cocktails. Highlighted by Southern Living and frequently recommended by Raleigh Magazine; reservations help on sunny patio days.

Sunny Gerhart’s downtown ode to New Orleans serves spirited Saturday and Sunday brunch—think gulf oysters, shrimp and grits, and robust Bloody Marys. A frequent pick in Southern dining roundups and praised by local critics for its sense of place.

A Raleigh original since 1975, this music-filled café does a generous weekend brunch with hearty Southern plates and abundant vegetarian options. Axios Raleigh spotlighted its 50th anniversary, underscoring its lasting community role.

Towering biscuits, country ham, and hotcakes define this downtown staple where locals have lingered for decades. Bon Appétit’s Raleigh guide calls out Big Ed’s for classic Southern breakfast—show up early and enjoy the City Market buzz.

Since 1930, Mecca’s counter stools and booths have anchored downtown. Weekend brunch brings diner staples and Raleigh lore. Recognized by local food writers as an essential restaurant; today it’s stewarded by local group Empire Eats.

In Five Points, this cheerful café-market hybrid leans Southern for weekend brunch—shrimp and grits, pimento cheese grits, and ribbon-winning Bloody Marys. Named in Raleigh Magazine’s Best Brunch 2024 and beloved by Our State readers.

Boylan Bridge views meet a playful, chef-driven brunch—shakshuka, shrimp and grits, and mimosa flights on a breezy patio. A go-to in local guides and a favorite stop for visitors eyeing the skyline.

Dim sum meets Belgian-style beer in a light-washed Moore Square landmark. A Bon Appétit Hot 10 alum, it’s perfect for a late-morning feast of dumplings, bao, and fried rice—Raleigh’s elegant answer to a dim sum brunch.

A downtown favorite for Saturday brunch with chilaquiles, huevos divorciados, and mezcal-forward sips. Featured in Southern Living’s Raleigh dining picks and championed by Visit Raleigh for its community-minded, Latino-owned roots.

Smoky Hollow’s Mediterranean-minded spot turns Sunday brunch into a shareable parade—Turkish eggs, pork belly hash, thoughtful pastries, and polished cocktails. Frequently spotlighted by Raleigh Weekend and noted by Raleigh Magazine for standout biscuits.

A beloved, no-frills staple inside the market serving country breakfasts and Sunday brunch to crowds of growers, chefs, and families. Covered by local news outlets for its enduring appeal and early-morning hours.