Short for Research Triangle, Triangle is the North Carolina cities of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, all within 30 minutes of each other. The area has a thriving (and growing) culinary scene, with restaurants ranging from food trucks and barbecue to fine dining. The Triangle area is a great place for a weekend lunch. Because every city has a special charm.
Often overlooked as a cluster of college campuses that include the University of North Carolina, Duke University and North Carolina State University, the Triangle is more than just college stadiums and breweries Visitors can sample farm-fresh food from celebrity chefs, tour several distilleries and visit open-air art shows.
From sweet biscuits to shopping, the Triangle has something for everyone, making it the perfect weekend getaway to explore local cuisine and enjoy North Carolina’s finest restaurants.
Day 1: Durham
Of the three cities, Durham is probably the best for trendy restaurants and vibrant nightlife. If you’re flying (or driving) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport in the afternoon, why not start your journey with chef Ricky Moore’s award-winning James Beard Seafood? Enjoy seafood, and in my humble opinion, the most delicious honey pudding on the planet.
What to Eat
As with any great restaurant, you can’t miss M Sushi, the only unsuspecting omakase restaurant that makes Open Table’s 100 Best Restaurants in North Carolina for 2021. If you’re in the mood for great pancakes, check out Press Coffee. European style coffee shop with delicious food and wine. Or stop by the Queenie for a bite to eat as you wander through the library’s soundproofing and shared podcast studio.
Where to Drink
Among the great bars, Kingfisher is a place that makes real cocktails. Their Froage Pomme is Hennessy sous vide with cave-aged Karst cheese and sour Granny Smith apple juice. And if you’re in the mood for a good wine, the Killer Queen Wine Bar offers a very homey setting and an impressive and extensive wine program.
The Durham Distillery has earned a reputation for award-winning gin and being the most decorated gin distillery in the country. In addition, co-founders Melissa and Lee Katchuk will be the fourth and fifth distillers to join the Gin Guild.
If you’re just looking for a drink, check out the Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge. Formerly a coffin shop serving classic cocktails. For other distilleries, visit Mystic Farm & Distillery, the world’s largest solar-powered bourbon distillery. They use local grains in their zero-waste manufacturing process.
Where to Stay
Built in 1968, the Durham Hotel is a boutique hotel in the heart of Durham, a hub of culture and community. The Durham Hotel is Durham’s only locally independent hotel in the city center, with a restaurant, coffee bar and rooftop lounge.
What to Do
Explore art and nature by cycling at Eno River State Park or at the Sarah P. Oakley Park. Take a walk in Duke Gardens.
Day 2: Raleigh
Raleigh has a huge downtown vibe. As a metropolitan place with a vibrant culinary and cultural scene, Raleigh has no shortage of things to do, see and eat. The city is known for its many green spaces, lively cuisine and lively nightlife. The city has many attractions ranging from historical sites to art galleries and world-class museums.
What to Eat
Rainbow Ranchonette has a classic diner feel with a splash of color. The dirt floating on the floor in bright stripes like a rainbow is the best place in the house. Don’t miss the corned beef hash, biscuits and gravy.
You can’t go to North Carolina without barbecue, so we’ve got three great options for you. If you like barbecue, check out The Pit, where you can find all the pork and cornbread you need, or long, a daytime market-style barbecue shop where diners line up to order smoked brisket and whole Head to Reef Swine pork by the pound. For barbecue with a twist, head straight to Lichen Latin BBQ Joint for crispy, tender roasted pork. If barbecue isn’t your thing, St. Roch Oysters offers the most flavorful Carolina oysters and New Orleans-inspired plates.
Burial Beer Co. for innovative cocktails and craft beer. Raleigh Taproom + Bottle Shop is located in a 100-year-old wagon house.
Where to Stay
Parlor at Heights House the Heights House Hotel is a cozy little lounge that reflects the Italian flair of this historic mansion built in 1858 with an Italian-inspired cocktail menu, wine list and local specialties.
For the ultimate in luxury lifestyle, stay at Umstead Hotel & Spa, the state’s highest rated hotel. It’s the epitome of luxury, with beautiful interiors decorated with artwork from private artisans, top-notch cuisine at Heron’s signature restaurants, an exquisite spa and gracious staff in stunning woodlands.
What to Do
Shop at Fenton, a mixed-use development in the heart of Cary (neighbor Raleigh). Fenton offers interactive public art, open public spaces for recreation and group training, and interesting restaurants and coffee shops.
Raleigh is home to the beautiful William B. McCarthy. Or catch a Carolina Hurricane hockey game at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the North Carolina Museum of Art, or PNC Arena.
