Restaurant Guide

RALEIGH/CARY

18 SEABOARD — 18 Seaboard Avenue, Suite 100 Raleigh. 861-4318. www.18seaboard.com. Chef-Proprietor Jason Smith welcomes you with sensibly, inventive American Cuisine using North Carolina ingredients. From the downtown views of our open-air mezzanine to the staff's warm hospitality, 18 Seaboard is the place for casual dining or special occasions.

42ND STREET OYSTER BAR — 508 W. Jones St., Raleigh. 831-2811. Serving quality seafood, steaks and pasta in a casual atmosphere. Steamed oysters and clams available. Lunch M-F, Dinner seven nights a week.

518 WEST ITALIAN CAFÉ — 518 West Jones St., Raleigh. 829-2518. www.518west.com. Located in a beautifully renovated, light-filled historic building, 518 West has been named “Best Italian Restaurant in the Triangle” four straight years by the readers of the Independent. Featuring a wood-burning pizza oven, fresh seasonal pastas made in-house, seafood and steaks, and much more. All bottles of wine are 50% off on Mondays.

AN — 2800 Renaissance Park Place, Cary. 677-9229. www.ancuisines.com. Chef Michael Chuong showcases his signature ‘New World’ cuisine, an elegant blend of Southeast Asian flavors and European influences. Voted Best New Restaurant in 2007 by Metro Magazine & Cary Magazine, Best Appetizers in 2008 by Metro Magazine. Lunch Mon-Fri and Dinner Mon-Sat.

THE ANGUS BARN — 9401 Glenwood Avenue. Raleigh. 781-2444. www.angusbarn.com The Angus Barn, a Raleigh landmark offers Angus steaks, seafood, an extensive wine list, experienced and knowledgeable staff and much more in its eclectic barn setting. Since opening in the 1960s, the basic principals – hospitality, attractive atmosphere, and value have remained the same.

BELLA MONICA — 3121-103 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh. 881-9778. www.bellamonica.com. Authentic Neapolitan entrées from family recipes. Neighborhood wine bar with all-Italian list. Patio dining. Lunch & Dinner. Closed Sunday. Voted “Best Italian” by CitySearch & AOL Cityguide. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

BENTLEY’S AT CROSSROADS — 2007 Walnut St., Cary. 854-0644. www.BentleysAtCrossroads.com. Offering aged steaks and fresh seafood in a casually elegant atmosphere. Lunch M-F from $6. Dinner daily from $8. Stunning lounge area. A/V equipped boardroom available for private events. Look for Bentley’s clock tower at Crossroads Plaza.

BLOOMSBURY BISTRO — 509 W. Whitaker Mill Rd. Ste 101, Raleigh. 834-9011. Sophisticated food and wine in a comfortable neighborhood setting. Featured in Southern Living, Gourmet Magazine and USA Today. Voted Best Restaurant two years running, Best Chef and Best Waitstaff 2006 MetroBravo! Awards.

BLUE RIDGE, THE MUSEUM RESTAURANT — 2110 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh. 839-6262. Visit Web site online at www.nc artmuseum.org. Offering renowned visual art and culinary masterpieces at the NC Museum of Art. Eclectic fare ranges from salads, sandwiches and entrées at lunch to sumptuous weekend brunches.

BONEFISH GRILL — 4421-112 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh. 782-5127. Specializing in market fresh fish and seafood cooked over a wood-burning grill. Eight or more fresh fish selections daily, paired with original toppings. ½ price appetizers from 9 p.m.-10 p.m. every night. Live music Thursday nights from 9 p.m.-11 p.m. Bar and outdoor patio dining available. Located at North Hills. M-Th: 4 p.m.-10 p.m., F-Sat: 4 p.m.-11 p.m., Sun: 4 p.m.-10 p.m.

CAFÉ TIRAMISU — 6196-120 Falls of Neuse Rd., Raleigh. 981-0305. Northern Italian Cuisine: A family owned and operated restaurant originating from an old Raleigh favorite Piccolo Mondo restaurant. Slick and contemporary décor, will give fine dining at its best.

CAROLINA ALE HOUSE — 513 Creekside Dr., 835-2222; 4512 Falls of Neuse Rd., 431-0001; 7981 Skyland Ridge Pkwy., 957-4200; 2240 Walnut St., Cary, 854-9444. Hwy 98 bypass and US1, 11685 Northpark Drive, Wake Forest, 556-8666. Visit Web site online at www.CarolinaAleHouse.com. A family-friendly sports-themed restaurant consistently awarded top honors for its atmosphere, hand-breaded wings, menu selection, and wide variety of ales. Full menu served 11–2 a.m. Daily lunch and dinner specials. Kid’s menu 99¢ every Tuesday.

COQUETTE BRASSERIE — 4351-119 The Circle at North Hills, Raleigh. 789-0606. www.coquetteraleigh.com. Raleigh’s first authentic French Brasserie featuring traditional fare, an exclusive French wine list and the best beers and classic French cocktails. Open air restaurant made possible by giant doors that open when the weather is just right. Mon-Thurs: 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri-Sat: 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m.-10 p.m.

THE DUCK & DUMPLING – 222 S. Blount St., Raleigh. 919-838-0085. www.theduckanddumpling.com. Overlooking Moore Square, this contemporary Asian-fusion bistro is home to Chef David Mao’s unique blend of authentic Chinese and Vietnamese cuisine. Bar and sidewalk seating available. Lunch: 11:30 am-2:30 p.m., M-F; Dinner: 5 p.m.-10 p.m., T-Th; 5 p.m.-11 p.m., Fri-Sat.

EL RODEO GRILL — 7420 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh. 919-844-6330. www.elrodeogrill.com. Inspired by the bold flavors of Tex-Mex fare and the vibrate culture of Mexico, enjoy our favorite fajitas and stuffed Chile Rellenos. Or for a higher degree of authenticity, try our Michoacan-style Carnitas and a Mexico-City style Steak Tacos special. Signature margaritas and refreshing beers make for a perfect compliment to this twist on traditional Mexican dining.

FIREBIRDS ROCKY MOUNTAIN GRILL — 4350-118 Lassiter at North Hills Ave., Raleigh. 788-8778. A unique style of american cuisine that originated in Aspen Colorado. Open-flame grilled steaks, herb roasted prime rib, fresh seafood, hearty pasta, awesome burgers and giant salads served in a cozy, comfortable setting. Bar and outdoor patio seating available. M – Th: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., F-Sat: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Sun: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

THE FLYING BISCUIT CAFE — 2016 Clark Ave., Raleigh. 833-6924. www.flyingbiscuit.com. www.raleighbiscuit.com. Serving breakfast all day and hearty entrées, sandwiches and salads for lunch and dinner, this Cameron Village restaurant also boasts a full bar. Open 7 a.m. until 10 p.m. daily.

GLENWOOD GRILL — Oberlin@Glenwood, Raleigh. 919.782.3102. The longtime favorite in the Triangle, five-time Metro Bravo winner for Power Lunch. Head Chef John Wright continues to discover new takes on Contemporary Southern. Now offering even More for Less: $50 Dinner for Two, Six nights a week. Appetizer or salad to share, two entrees, dessert to share and a bottle of wine. For lunch, Monday-Friday: Two for $12: Choose appetizer or salad with Main Course. Available for private parties on Sundays. Visit us at glenwoodgrill.com.

GLOBE — 510 Glenwood Avenue Suite 103, Raleigh. 836-1811. Chefs Heath Holloman (co-owner) and Gray Modlin present a menu influenced by cuisines from all over the GLOBE, with their own twists. Choose a wine from the comprehensive list or have Henry Burgess (co-owner/sommelier) assist in a selection that will pair well with your food. "GLOBE...come taste a world of difference!

HERONS — 100 Woodland Pond, Cary. 447-4200. www.herons restaurant.com. Now open at The Umstead Hotel and Spa offering modern American cuisine with regional influnces and an extensive wine selection. Live music and classic cocktails in the bar.

HOT POINT CAFE — 4209-136 Lassiter Mill Rd., Raleigh. 788-8240. A contemporary american café known as Midtown Raleigh’s “neighborhood café” serving traditional breakfast and Mediterranean-influenced lunch and dinner. Famous for their California-style pizzas, sandwiches and house-baked focaccia. Wine and beer served. Outdoor patio dining available. Located at North Hills. M-Th: 7 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri: 7 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat: 8 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun: 8 a.m.-9 p.m.

JIBARRA RESTAURANT — 327-102 West Davie Street, Raleigh. www.jibarra.net. 755-0556. Housed in historic Depot building in the warehouse district, this upscale Mexican restaurant couples indigenous ingredients with modern techniques and sensibilities elevating timeless recipes. Blending contemporary and Mexican style, the energetic atmosphere is dominated by a sleek tequila tower showcasing an array of premium, 100 percent blue agave spirits. Creative margaritas and an emphasized Spanish and Latin American wine list available.

MIDTOWN & BAR 115 — 4421-115 Six Forks Road, Raleigh. 782-WINE. www.midtownandbar115.com. Recognized as one of the “Best Places for a Power Lunch,” by Metro Magazine, Midtown offers the experience of a New York bistro and bar in the heart of Raleigh’s new midtown. Enjoy metropolitan cuisine and distinctive wines served by a professional wait staff. Lunch and Dinner Mon-Sat. Bar 115 open until midnight Thurs-Sat.

THE MINT RESTAURANT — 219 Fayetteville St., Raleigh. 821-0011. www.themintrestaurant.com. Mon.-Thurs. 5-9p.m.; Fri. and Sat. 5-10p.m. The Mint in downtown Raleigh offers contemporary fine southern dining with global influences. Culinary Director Christopher Hylton presents new and exciting culinary combinations paired with The Mint’s unflappable service standards.

THE MORNING TIMES — 10 E. Hargett St., Raleigh. 919-836-1204. www.morningtimes-raleigh.com. Coffee shop serves up locally roasted coffee with bagels, muffins, scones, sandwiches; open late, serving wine and beer. Local artists’ works featured in upstairs gallery. Sidewalk seating available. Open 6:30 a.m.-10 p.m., M-F; 7:30 a.m.-10 p.m., Sat-Sun.

MURA — 4121 Main at North Hills Street, Raleigh.781-7887. www.mura-northhills.com. Traditional dishes and innovative new rolls make Mura stand out as one of the premier sushi restaurants on the East Coast. Elegant but cozy, Mura fits any occasion. Lunch: Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Dinner: Sun-Thurs 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

NOFO MARKET AND CAFE — 2014 Fairview Road, Raleigh. 821-1240. Cafe, bar and deck seating. Award-winning salads, soups, sandwiches and entrees. “Best Brunch,” “Best Eggs Benedict,” “Best Bloody Mary,” Metro Magazine. Private dining available in the Balcony at the Pig. Lunch M-F, Brunch Sat & Sun, Dinner Tues-Sat.

OLIVER TWIST — www.theolivertwistlounge.com. 8111 Creedmoor Rd, Raleigh. Offering an array of Eclectic Tapas & Signature Martini’s served with a twist of sophistication. Featuring Live Music Monday through Thursday with Belly Dancers & DJ on weekends.

THE PIT — 328 W. Davie St., Raleigh. 919-890-4500. www.thepit-raleigh.com. Country meets city with authentic North Carolina pit cooked barbecue prepared by legendary pitmaster Ed Mitchell, complemented by creative, seasonal appetizers and sides. Bar and outdoor seating available. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., M-Sat; Dinner: 5 p.m.-10 p.m., M-Th; 5 p.m.-11 p.m., Fri-Sat. Sunday Brunch Buffet: 11:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m. (Sat lunch, Sun brunch start March 28).

THE Q-SHACK — 4120-135 Main at North Hills St., Raleigh. (919) 786-4381. Locally owned and operated, specializing in Western Carolina and Texas-style BBQ, salads and sides made from local, farm-fresh ingredients, 100% locally raised, hormone-free pork, chicken, turkey and beef. Catering and delivery. Outdoor sidewalk seating available. M-Th: 11 a.m.-9 p.m., F-Sat: 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun: 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

THE RALEIGH TIMES — 14 E. Hargett St., Raleigh. 919-833-0999. www.raleightimesbar.com. Beautifully restored 100-year-old building is home to a timeless local watering hole, featuring creative takes on classic bar fare, inventive drink menu, extensive Belgian beer selection. Bar and sidewalk seating available. Open 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m., M-Sat; Noon-2 a.m., Sun.

RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE — 4381-100 Lassiter at North Hills Ave, Raleigh. (919) 791-1103. New Orleans-inspired appetizers, aged USDA Prime steaks, fresh seafood, signature side dishes and homemade desserts served with genuine hospitality. Among the most distinctive dining destinations in the area. M-Th: 4 p.m.-10 p.m., F-Sat: 4 p.m.-11 p.m., Sun: 4 p.m.-9 p.m.

SAVOY — 7713-39 Lead Mine Rd., Raleigh 848-3535 www.restaurantsavoy.com. Smoke-free lunch Tu-F, dinner Tu-Sat and Sun Brunch. Chef brothers Peter Gibson and Marshall Smith make everything in-house, including breads and desserts. The contemporary menu features farmer's market produce and seasonal entrées. Convenient North Raleigh location for business or pleasure! Classic. Simple. Delicious.

SECOND EMPIRE RESTAURANT & TAVERN — 330 Hillsborough St., Raleigh. 829-3663. Visit online at www.second-empire.com. Award winning cuisine in two dining atmospheres. Upstairs enjoy the ultimate dining experience in an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere of charm and grace. Downstairs in the Tavern and Atrium enjoy a lighter fare menu and cozy atmosphere. AAA Four Diamond, DiRoNA Award, Wine Spectator Award.

SHERATON RALEIGH HOTEL — The Grove Café - 421 South Salisbury Street , Raleigh. 834-9900. Located on second floor of the Sheraton Raleigh Hotel, serving Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner in an open atrium atmosphere. The cuisine is American Continental, serving a daily Breakfast & Lunch Buffet, and a complete menu for all day dining. Also enjoy live entertainment on Wednesday nights in The Bar.

SITTI — 137 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh. 919-239-4070. www.sitti-raleigh.com. Authentic Lebanese cuisine by Chef Ghassan Jarrouj honors owners’ home country and grandmothers, or sittis, with delicious food and endless hospitality. Made-fresh mezze, entrees and house-baked flatbreads. Bar and outdoor seating available. Lunch: 11 a.m.-5 p.m., M-Sat; Dinner: 5 p.m.-10 p.m., M-Th; 5 p.m.-Midnight, Fri-Sat.

SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE — 414 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. 833-2888. The atmosphere at Sullivan’s resembles a 1940s steakhouse, featuring fine steaks and seafood. Enjoy the unparalleled martinis and live jazz played seven nights a week.

TAVERNA AGORA — 6101 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh. 881-8333. www.TavernaAgora.com. Taverna Agora is the premier restaurant in the Triangle for authentic Greek cuisine. Enjoy the rustic ambiance of our dining room or our beautiful garden patio. Venue may be reserved for special events.

TROPICAL SMOOTHIE CAFÉ — 1028 Oberlin Rd, Raleigh. 755-2222. www.tropicalsmoothiecafe.com. Tropical Smoothie Café is more than just great tasting smoothies. Keeping in line with the great taste and high quality that Tropical Smoothie is known for, we also offer healthy alternatives to regular fast food. Our gourmet wraps, specialty sandwiches and salads are made with the highest quality Dietz and Watson meats and chesses. Come early to enjoy our breakfast wraps and bagels. Catering is available.

UNO CHICAGO GRILL — 8401 Brier Creek Parkway, Raleigh. 544-6700. Enjoy original Chicago-style deep dish pizza along with a wide selection of appetizers, steaks, pastas, burgers and desserts. Kids Menu. Curbside pick-up. Open daily from 11 a.m.

VINNIE’S STEAKHOUSE AND TAVERN — 7440 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh. 847-7319. Treat yourself to all the luxuries this classic New York style chophouse has to offer. Certified Angus Beef, the freshest seafood available and an extensive selection of wines from around the world.

VIVACE — 4209-115 Lassiter Mill Rd., Raleigh. 787-7747. www.vivaceraleigh.com. Tuscan-inspired Italian restaurant featuring Chef Jeremy Sabo’s signature style in an upbeat, hip environment. Consecutively voted “Top 20 Best Restaurants” in the Triangle. Italian wines and house-made limoncello. Bar and outdoor patio dining available. Located at North Hills.
M-Th:11 a.m.-10 p.m., F-Sat: 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sun: 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

WINSTON’S GRILLE — 6401 Falls of the Neuse Rd, Raleigh. 790-0700. www.winstonsgrille.com. A Raleigh landmark for over 22 years; there's a perfect spot for everyone and every occasion. A combination of great food, fantastic service, and friendly atmosphere makes us a value place. Bread, desserts and cut meats are prepared and made fresh daily. Try our fine American cuisine, relax in the bar with our award winning Crab Dip or Bloody Mary’s and enjoy beautiful, outdoor patio dining in the warmer months. M-Thu. 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-11 p.m., Sat. 5 p.m.-11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

ZEST CAFÉ & HOME ART — 8831 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh. 848-4792. www.zestcafehomeart.com. Offering the freshest, finest food served with a zesty outlook since 1995. Dine in our café or outdoor patio. Enjoy the Home Art selection of fun and whimsical home accessories and gifts. Lunch Tues.-Sat., Dinner Wed.-Sat. and Sunday Brunch.

DURHAM/APEX/MORRISVILLE

CAFÉ PARIZADE — 2200 W. Main St., Durham. 286-9712. Renaissance-inspired murals, colorful surrealist works of art and casually chic crowds feasting on Mediterranean dishes. Lunch M-F 11:30-2:30 p.m., Dinner M-Th 5:30-10 p.m., F and Sat. 5:30-11 p.m., Sun. 5:30-9 p.m.

CAROLINA ALE HOUSE — 3911 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd., Durham. 490-2001.

SAFFRON INDIAN RESTAURANT — 4121 Davis Drive. Morrisville. 469-5774. www.saffronnc.com. Offering fine dining in an elegantly modern ambience. Ranked best Indian restaurant and top 20 in RTP irrespective of cuisine by N&O for three years.

VIN ROUGE — 2010 Hillsborough Rd., Durham. 416-0406. Vin Rouge, a French café and wine bar, treats guests to provincial cooking at its finest in a chic, intimate setting. Dinner Tues.-Sun. 5:30-11 p.m., Brunch Sun. 10:30-2 p.m.

WATTS GROCERY — 1116 Broad Street, Durham/ 919.416.5040. With a distinctive take on North Carolina cuisine, Watts Grocery features favorite seasonal and local foods by the forkful. Our menu changes seasonally so please check our website for new items at www.wattsgrocery.com.

CHAPEL HILL/HILLSBOROUGH

411 WEST ITALIAN CAFÉ — 411 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill. 968-4732. www.411west.com. An Italian Café featuring fresh pasta, seafood, steaks, pizzas from a wood-fired oven, and homemade signature desserts in a Tuscan Villa setting. All bottle wines are 50% off on Monday nights. Private Room available for up to 50.

BIN 54 — 1201-M Raleigh Rd., Chapel Hill. 969-1155. Chapel Hill’s high-end steakhouse has it all: delectable dishes, stellar service and an atmosphere rich in stylish romance.

THE CAROLINA CROSSROADS RESTAURANT — 211 Pittsboro Street, Chapel Hill. 918-2777. www.carolinainn.com. The Four Star and Four Diamond Carolina Crossroads Restaurant combines the graceful traditions of the south with Executive Chef Jimmy Reale’s progressive new American cuisine. Fine dining menus change seasonally to highlight the best products from local and regional farms.

CROOK’S CORNER — 610 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill. 929-7643. www.crookscorner.com. “Sacred ground of Southern foodies,” New York Times. Patio dining, weather permitting. Acclaimed Sunday brunch. Dinner Tues.-Sun. at 5:30 p.m., Sun. Brunch 10:30-2 p.m.

MEZ CONTEMPORARY MEXICAN — 5410 Page Road, Research Triangle Park, Exit 282 off I-40. 941-1630. Visit online at www.mezdurham.com. MEZ is the latest offering from the Chapel Hill Restaurant Group, operators of 411 West, 518 West, Squid’s, and Spanky’s. Featuring traditional Mexican dishes with a lighter, healthier twist, all made with the freshest ingredients. A beautiful private room upstairs overlooks the RTP and can accommodate up to 100. North Carolina’s first LEED designed restaurant.

PENANG - MALAYSIAN, THAI & SUSHI — 431 W. Franklin St, Chapel Hill. 919-933-2288. Online at www.penangnc.com. Surprising balance of Southeast Asian spices and fruits. Authentic menu based on family recipes, with curries, noodles, soups, and sushi. Attractive, open, atmosphere, vegetarian options and weekly specials. Special sushi offer Tuesday and Thursday nights.
4 ½ stars from CitySearch. Open daily.”

SPANKY’S — 101 East Franklin St., Downtown Chapel Hill, 967-2678, www.spankysrestaurant.com, Featuring famous char-grilled hamburgers, Brown Sugar Babyback Ribs, fresh signature salads, and homemade desserts since 1977. Private Rooms upstairs accommodate up to 100, and overlook Franklin Street and Downtown Chapel Hill.

SPICE STREET — 201 S. Estes Dr., Chapel Hill. 928-8200. A revolutionary experience in dining entertainment, Spice Street is a culinary experience created to nourish the soul and share flavors from around the world. Spice Street celebrates food and life.

SQUID’S — 1201 Fordham Blvd., Chapel Hill. 942-8757. www.squidsrestaurant.com. This local institution features the freshest seafood, steaks, and Chapel Hill’s only raw bar. Named “2008 Best Seafood Restaurant in the Triangle” by the readers of the Independent, Squid’s offers imaginative specials and fresh Maine lobster. Oyster Happy Hour daily from
4-6p.m. Lobsters are Market price on Monday nights.

BEYOND THE TRIANGLE

AQUA — 214 Middle Lane, Beaufort, NC 28516. 252-728-7777. www.aquaexperience.com. “Aqua’s urban-chic décor whets the appetite for sophisticated, internationally inspired food… On all counts, Aqua was an exceptional dining experience.” Moreton Neal in Metro Magazine June 2005. Open for dinner: Tues.-Thurs. 6 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 5:30 p.m.

BEAUFORT GROCERY CO — 117 Queen St., Beaufort. 252-728-3899. www.beaufortgrocery.com. Beaufort’s oldest and continuously operating fine dining restaurant since 1991. Specializing in regional cuisine fused with global techniques and influences. Lunch M, W-Sat 11:30-3 p.m.; Dinner M, W-Sat 5:30-9:30 p.m. and Sun brunch at 11:30 a.m. Closed Tues.

BLUE MOON BISTRO — 119 Queen Street, Beaufort. 252-728-5800. Coastal cuisine in a casual historic setting. Offering innovative dishes that bring a welcomed departure from other coastal venues. Chef Swain’s eclectic menu includes references from Asia, France and America. For a balanced plate, enjoy a well-matched wine to accompany your entrée. Dinner Tues-Sat.

CAFÉ ZITO — 105 South 11th St., Morehead City. 252-726-6676. www.cafezito.com. Be delighted by the creative cuisine at this neighborhood restaurant. Chef Baptist Knaven offers a tantalizing menu of local favorites influenced by the Mediterranean. Located in a historic downtown home, enjoy dining inside or on the porch.

CHEF AND THE FARMER — 120 W. Gordon St., Kinston. 252-208-2433. www.chefandthefarmer.com. A converted mule stable never looked so good. Blending old architecture and contemporary design with local ingredients and urban techniques makes this progressive eatery an epicurean oasis.

DELUXE — 114 Market Street, Wilmington. 910-251-0333. Offering upscale dining with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients. Largest selection of fine wines in the region and one of Wilmingon’s superior brunches. Open for dinner and Sunday brunch. Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, www.deluxenc.com.

FISHTALES WATERFRONT RESTAURANT — 232 W. Beaufort Rd. Beaufort 252-504-7263. www.fishtalesdining.com. Have your Holiday Party on the Waterfront this year! FishTales offers the best food selection, service and a great atmosphere for your special event. We can provide the perfect setting no matter what the occasion. Our facility accommodates parties from 10 to 1000. Call today or come by for a personal tour.

FRONT STREET GRILL AT STILLWATER — 300 Front St., Beaufort. 252-728-4956. Visit Web site online at www.frontstreetgrillatstillwater.com Historic Waterfront Bistro showcasing New World Cuisine. Perennial winner of the prestigious Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, serving lunch and dinner daily with inside and outside dining. New floating docks and outside waterfront bar.

PORT LAND GRILLE — 1908 Eastwood Road, Wilmington. 910-256-6056. www.portlandgrille.com. Chef/Owner Shawn Wellersdick’s menu, featuring seafood, prime meats, and lots of flavor in a casually elegant atmosphere changing “slightly nightly” to reflect the season. Patio seating and private rooms available.

SHEPARD’S POINT — 913 Arendell St., Morehead City. 252-727-0815. www.beaufortgrocery.com. Contemporary fine dining in downtown Morehead City focusing on quality, value and service. Featuring seafood, steaks and spirits. Come casual and leave impressed. Dinner M, Th-Sat 5:30-10 p.m.; Sun brunch begins at 11 a.m. Closed Tues.