North Carolina Takes The Michelin Stage: Explore The Most Incredible Restaurants From Asheville To Durham

North Carolina has recently emerged as a new culinary destination, primarily attributed to its appearance in the Michelin Guide to the South of the USA. The esteemed guide, known for its hard-to-please critics and very few spots, has given the state one star, seven Bib Gourmand acknowledgments, and thirty-nine eateries worth the visit. The state’s food culture is as varied as its population, ranging from authentic Southern comfort food to daring worldwide tastes.

In this guide, we take a tour of four key cities, Asheville, Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham that showcase some of North Carolina’s most outstanding dining establishments.

Asheville: A Fusion of Local Flavours and Southern Hospitality

Asheville, known for its eclectic culture and breathtaking mountain views, also offers a vibrant culinary scene. The Michelin-recommended Good Hot Fish brings the essence of Southern fish camps to life. A casual, counter-service eatery, it serves up the quintessential fried fish sandwich alongside sides such as hush puppies and collard greens. The menu also features unique dishes like the trout bologna sandwich, a must-try for anyone seeking bold, Southern flavours.

Luminosa, another standout, blends Italian cuisine with Appalachian influences. Located in Asheville’s historic Flatiron Hotel, this restaurant has garnered a Michelin 2025 Green Star for its commitment to sustainability. Chef Graham House crafts dishes using local ingredients, and the wood-fired oven adds an interactive touch to the dining experience.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, Leo’s House of Thirst offers a cozy wine bar where guests can enjoy tapas-style small plates, like deviled eggs with smoked honey and Sichuan sesame cauliflower. The ambiance is warm and inviting, perfect for an evening with friends.

Charlotte: A Modern Twist on Southern Classics

In Charlotte, Haberdish provides a modern take on classic Southern fare. The fried chicken sandwich is a crowd favourite, complemented by pickles made from locally grown vegetables. Another must-try is the hush puppies, which are lighter and airier than traditional versions, served with sweet tea butter. The hearty portions make it an ideal spot for those with a big appetite.

Kindred, located in the college town of Davidson, offers a sophisticated dining experience with Italian-inspired dishes. Guests rave about the seasonal pasta options, especially the rich canestri pasta with local shrimp and nduja. The milk bread at Kindred also earns praise, and the duck fat potatoes, paired with crab butter mayonnaise, are a standout dish.

Customshop, located in the Elizabeth neighbourhood, combines Italian, Asian, and Latin influences to create an exciting fusion menu. Dishes like the canestri with shrimp and nduja reflect the creativity that has earned this restaurant a spot in Charlotte’s culinary scene.

Raleigh: Where Farm-to-Table Meets Global Flavours

Raleigh, with its growing reputation for fine dining, features gems like Tamasha, which showcases the best of Indian-American fusion. Chef Bhavin Chhatwani’s offerings, such as the smoky butter chicken and kheema kaelji, are flavourful yet modern takes on traditional Indian dishes. The extravagant dining room adds to the restaurant’s appeal, making it an essential stop for any food lover in Raleigh.

For those who appreciate farm-to-table dining, Herons at The Umstead Hotel and Spa is a destination in itself. With much of its produce sourced from the on-site One Oak Farm, this Michelin-starred restaurant exemplifies Raleigh’s commitment to local, sustainable ingredients. The Five Course Tasting Menu allows diners to experience the region’s best seasonal offerings, with highlights such as the lobster course, served with heirloom Carolina rice cake and aji dulce curry broth.

Durham: A Mix of Southern Comfort and Global Influences

Durham’s culinary scene is equally diverse, with restaurants like Nikos offering Greek comfort food with a Southern twist. The mezze-style dining here includes roasted beets, hummus, and spanakopita, but brunch dishes such as the knufe pancakes, a reimagined Palestinian dessert add a unique touch to the menu.

Seraphine offers a taste of Louisiana in the heart of Durham. With classics like gumbo, fried catfish, and crawfish croquettes, this restaurant transports diners straight to the Bayou. The BBQ shrimp is a highlight, smoky and tangy, complemented by fresh bread to soak up the rich sauce.

For a more refined experience, Nana’s has been a staple in Durham since 1992, offering a blend of American, Italian, and French cuisine using locally sourced ingredients. Their scallop Milanese and rye tagliatelle with gamely duck and muscadine saba are dishes that highlight the sophistication of this long-standing institution.

An Unforgettable Culinary Journey

A Michelin-recommended culinary tour across North Carolina provides an exceptional occasion to taste the finest places in the South. The cities from the conviviality of Good Hot Fish in Asheville to the sophistication of Herons in Raleigh give a view of Southern and world cuisines through their own lens. You can choose between Southern comfort or creative, farm-to-table style dining experiences, for North Carolina is a place that offers everything.

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