Your birthday should be a delicious event, which means celebrating with an unforgettable birthday dinner in Raleigh. Luckily, the area has an eclectic food scene where some of the country’s best chefs are cooking up foods that you’re sure to crave even after your special day. In this vibrant city, you’ll find restaurants serving cuisine from around the world, plus those offering Southern classics.
No matter what age or milestone you’re celebrating, there is a restaurant in Raleigh that will be the perfect backdrop for your birthday meal. To help you plan the most memorable celebration yet, this guide will show you the best places for a birthday dinner in Raleigh with something for all tastes, party sizes and budgets.
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- 15 Best Birthday Dinner Restaurants in Raleigh, NC
- Other Foodie Experiences in Raleigh
15 Best Birthday Dinner Restaurants in Raleigh, NC
1. Sitti
Emphasizing community and togetherness, Sitti is an excellent place for a fun birthday dinner in Raleigh. Serving Lebanese cuisine, it’s also ideal for those who want something a little different.
The Vibe
Upscale casual with a bustling atmosphere that’s perfect for getting you in the party mood. Downstairs features a private dining area, plus an open-air courtyard that’s ideal for drinks before dinner.
What to Order
Lamb chops are a decadent option at this top spot for a birthday dinner in Raleigh. Opting for a selection of sharing plates or a tasting menu is also a good idea to try as many exquisite dishes as possible.
Sitti | 137 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$
2. Death & Taxes
Chef Asley Christensen of Death & Taxes was named America’s Best Chef in 2019 by the James Beard Foundation, so you can bet this birthday dinner in Raleigh will be unforgettable.
The Vibe
The restaurant is located in an old bank, so it has tons of classic details that combine with elevated contemporary décor. The third-floor lounge can also hold up to 100 people for those planning larger gatherings.
What to Order
Go for the dry-aged pork shoulder followed by the chocolate mousse profiteroles and a tasty co*cktail for a luxurious birthday dinner in Raleigh.
Death & Taxes | 105 W. Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$$
3. Bida Manda
One of the first Laotian restaurants in the United States, Bida Manda is also one of the best places for an upbeat and unique birthday celebration. Groups of six or more can make large party reservations and there are also spaces for private dining.
The Vibe
The contemporary décor and cozy mood lighting create a modern yet cozy space for a memorable birthday dinner in Raleigh.
What to Order
The crispy spring rolls are a great starter for a filling and delicious birthday dinner in Raleigh. Next, try the pho lao and saffron crêpe. You could also get a variety of dishes for the table to try as many things as possible.
Bida Manda | 222 S. Blount St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$
4. Jolie
Scott Crawford is an acclaimed chef and the vision behind Jolie. Along with fantastic dishes, this small and quaint restaurant for a birthday dinner in Raleigh has a relaxed yet high-end vibe that’s ideal for a meal with close friends or family.
The Vibe
This spot is comfortable and cozy with elevated contemporary finishes. It also has a patio space with twinkling string lights. You’ll feel like you’re dining in a French bistro if you book a birthday dinner in Raleigh here.
What to Order
You have to get the onion soup at this authentic French eatery. Steak frites and poulet roti are two great options for your main course. To finish, treat yourself to one of many pâtisserie-style desserts.
Jolie | 620 N. Person St., Raleigh, NC 27604 | $$$
5. Caffe Luna
Transport yourself to Tuscany for this birthday dinner in Raleigh. Caffe Luna offers three private dining rooms for up to 100 guests and has a special menu served family-style.
The Vibe
Caffe Luna is charming with more of a traditional flair than some of the restaurants in the city. This unique vibe makes it a warm and inviting space for a special meal.
What to Order
For a birthday dinner in Raleigh that you won’t forget, order rigatoni con pollo alla panna or linguini alle vongole. If you want something vegetarian, the penne caprese is simple yet full of flavor. For dessert, you can’t miss the decadent gelato cioccolato. You could even order one of each dessert on the menu, with other options including tiramisu and cheesecake, to share among your group!
Caffe Luna | 136 E. Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$
6. Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern
Located in the restored Dodd-Hinsdale House that dates to around 1879, dining at Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern is ideal if you’re looking for elegant birthday ideas in Raleigh.
The Vibe
This spot is quite upscale and features charming décor. It’s an excellent place for an elevated birthday dinner in Raleigh. Second Empire also has a chef’s table for parties of between two and eight people
What to Order
Order pan-roasted Georgia quail and the seafood paella for an unforgettable birthday meal. Don’t leave without trying some of the decadent desserts either.
Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern | 330 Hillsborough St., Raleigh, NC 27603 | $$$
7. Margaux’s Restaurant
A local favorite for over 30 years, Margaux’s Restaurant is helmed by the award-winning Chef Andrew Pettifer, meaning it's guaranteed that your meal will impress.
The Vibe
A sleek fine dining establishment with many classic details. It’s a stunning option for a dressy birthday dinner in Raleigh.
What to Order
The menu changes daily, so what you can order will be a birthday surprise. Options can include elevated gastropub-style snacks, fresh salads with local ingredients and high-end steak dishes. For a decadent birthday dinner in Raleigh, make sure you finish with a dessert or two.
Margaux’s Restaurant | 8111 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh, NC 27613 | $$$
8. Herons
Housed in The Umstead Hotel & Spa just outside of Raleigh in Cary, Herons’ location is just as luxurious as the dishes it serves. Parties up to 12 can book seats at the chef’s table for an elevated birthday soirée. Fancy afternoon tea is hosted as well if you’re planning a daytime get-together or are looking for unique birthday date ideas in Raleigh.
The Vibe
An elegant space with lakeside views, it’s perfect if you want to plan an upscale birthday dinner in Raleigh. Do note that Herons has a dress code for dinner guests — but you probably don't need to be asked to dress up for your birthday!
What to Order
The lobster has to be part of your order if you're hosting a birthday dinner in Raleigh here. After sharing a variety of other appetizers and main dishes, end your meal with a unique dessert, such as a dish featuring Sicilian pistachios paired with aerated matcha, olive oil chiffon and feuilletine.
Herons | 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary, NC 27513 | $$$
9. Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar
This spot is quite unique, serving elevated Italian in a reclaimed mill. Best of all, Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar has a warm and inviting atmosphere that’s great for both large and small birthday parties.
The Vibe
The draw of Mulino is the large outdoor dining patio with a central reflecting pool — perfect for a summer birthday dinner in Raleigh. The interior of this restaurant in Raleigh is also impressive, featuring a rustic vibe with exposed wood and brick. The dining room can host up to 90 people, while the garden patio can host up to 350, so you can have any kind of birthday dinner in Raleigh you’re imagining.
What to Order
Private events can enjoy a pre-fixe menu that’s served through the night. But for a traditional sit-down birthday dinner in Raleigh, choosing from the vast selection of pizzas is a great option. The tagliatelle or risotto are excellent choices as well.
Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar | 309 N. Dawson St., Raleigh, NC 27603 | $$
10. 42nd Street Oyster Bar and Seafood Grill
This restaurant has been around since 1931, so it’s a landmark in the city and perfect for a special occasion. Parties of over eight guests can also call for private dining reservations at 42nd Street Oyster Bar and Seafood Grill, making this dinner venue a little more intimate and special than other places.
The Vibe
It’s casual and large, so it’s ideal for a big birthday dinner in Raleigh with lots of friends and family. The bustling atmosphere and open kitchen add an exciting buzz to your celebrations even if you end up going with just a few close friends.
What to Order
Fish and seafood are the stars of the show here, so get lots of dishes to share among the group. Any of the oyster options are sure to impress. The jumbo lump crab cakes and blackened rare ahi bites are additional must-tries when having a birthday dinner in Raleigh at 42nd Street Oyster Bar and Seafood Grill.
42nd Street Oyster Bar and Seafood Grill | 508 W. Jones St., Raleigh, NC 27603 | $$
11. Gravy
A cozy and quaint space, Gravy is great for more intimate celebrations. However, if you’re in a larger group, don’t cross this spot off of your list of places for a birthday dinner in Raleigh. The sophisticated wine cellar space can host up to 40 people for private events
The Vibe
Exposed brick, a contemporary rustic dining room and a comfy patio space make Gravy one of the most beautiful birthday restaurants in Raleigh.
What to Order
For this birthday dinner in Raleigh, getting the gnocchi is the way to go. Starting with the risotto balls and ending with a wild berry flambé will complete the experience.
Gravy | 135 S. Wilmington St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$
12. The Pit
Perfect for a low-key birthday dinner in Raleigh, The Pit serves mouthwatering barbecue and other Southern classics.
The Vibe
The Pit is housed in a restored warehouse in Downtown Raleigh that’s industrial but still exudes rustic charm. There are also four rooms for private dining and larger birthday events.
What to Order
The rotating slider selection, Carolina-style ribs and the barbecue soy nuggets can’t be missed. Don’t forget to add lots of sides like mashed potatoes and gravy, fried okra and barbecue baked beans. The combo plates with a selection of meats and sides are also great choices if you can’t decide on one main dish.
The Pit | 328 W. Davie St., Raleigh, NC 27601 | $$
13. Angus Barn
A family-owned restaurant that’s been in the area for 50 years, Angus Barn is a favorite among the Raleigh locals. It has a few event spaces to choose from, including a lakeside pavilion and a wine cellar, so it's great for birthday celebrations of any size.
The Vibe
An upscale casual restaurant that’s great for large and small birthday dinners in Raleigh. Located in a rustic red barn, wood accents and checkered tablecloths add to the country feel for a warm and inviting meal with friends or family.
What to Order
As the name suggests, Angus Barn is known for its beef dishes. If you’re looking for birthday ideas in Raleigh for meat lovers, booking a table at this restaurant is one of the best ideas there is! While you can’t go wrong with any of the steaks, the T-bone steak or rib-eye are popular options. There’s a good selection of seafood dishes and other steakhouse classics as well.
Angus Barn | 9401 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC 27617 | $$$
14. Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen
A laid-back space for a birthday dinner, Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen focuses on farm-to-table meals. With live music and a stunning patio, this is a great place for a more casual gathering of friends and family.
The Vibe
The interior is contemporary yet traditional, making this spot upscale without being overly pretentious. But it’s the large brick patio space that is the real draw of the restaurant, especially if you’re planning a birthday dinner in Raleigh during warmer months.
What to Order
For a birthday dinner near Raleigh that features all the classics, order the cornmeal catfish and shrimp and grits, plus the jambalaya if you have a large appetite. Finish with a lemon pound cake or brownie sundae to end the night on a sweet note.
Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen | Multiple Locations | $$
15. Vidrio
Vibrant and modern, Vidrio is one of the trendiest dinner spots in Raleigh. It also has one of the largest spaces for private events in the city, hosting up to 250 people, so it’s ideal if you want to throw a big birthday party.
The Vibe
Colorful furniture and sculptural light fixtures in a sleek space make Vidrio a stylish backdrop for a birthday dinner in Raleigh.
What to Order
This birthday restaurant in Raleigh serves Mediterranean fare and getting a variety of sharing plates is a must. Options include patatas bravas, dressed oysters, hummus and stuffed piquillo peppers.
Vidrio | 500 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 100, Raleigh, NC 27603 | $$$
Other Foodie Experiences in Raleigh
Going out for a birthday dinner in Raleigh is an excellent activity. However, if you’re looking for more things to do for your birthday, attending some cooking classes in Raleigh is also a great way to celebrate. Under the guidance of expert chefs, you’ll learn foundational techniques to improve your culinary skills. Plus, you can choose to learn recipes inspired by world cuisines or those that are more local. Best of all, you can bring friends and family to cook with you and enjoy a birthday meal you handcrafted together.
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Birthdays are meant to be a special occasion, and what better way to celebrate than by splurging on an unforgettable birthday dinner in Raleigh? The city has so many restaurants to explore, you’re sure to find the ideal one for your big event. So whether you’re looking for good drinks and sharing plate dishes or an upscale multi-course meal, this list of the best birthday eateries on Raleigh’s dining scene should have something for you.
For even more ways to explore your Raleigh and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
