North Carolina is a southeastern state offering extraordinary geographic diversity — from the misty peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains in the west, to the rolling Piedmont Plateau in the center, to the iconic Outer Banks barrier islands and warm Atlantic beaches in the east. Home to nearly 11 million residents, the state blends Southern hospitality, world-class barbecue, vibrant college-town culture, outdoor adventure, and a deep historical heritage stretching from the Wright Brothers' first flight to Civil War battlefields.
North Carolina's food scene is one of the most diverse and dynamic in the American South. The state is legendary for two distinct barbecue styles: eastern NC whole-hog BBQ with vinegar-pepper sauce (centered on cities like Wilson and Goldsboro) and western Lexington-style using pork shoulder with a slightly sweet tomato-tinged sauce. Beyond BBQ, the state has a vibrant farm-to-table movement centered in Asheville, Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill — driven by a deep agriculture tradition and innovative chefs. Cheerwine (a local cherry soda) and Pepsi (both NC-born) are local drinks to try. The coast delivers some of the freshest seafood on the East Coast: Outer Banks flounder, Carolina shrimp, and hard blue crabs.
Top restaurants
Handpicked picks for the best dining experiences.
Restaurants by cuisine
Browse picks grouped by cuisine type.
American
Seafood
Spanish
Brunch
Eastern Nc Bbq
Fusion
Mediterranean
New Southern
Food tours & tastings in North Carolina
Eat your way through North Carolina with a guide.
Browse food experiences in North CarolinaWe may earn a commission from bookings made through these links.
Street food
Local flavours at affordable prices.
Food markets
Where locals shop and graze.
Western Carolina Farmers Market
State Farmers Market
Charlotte Regional Farmers Market
Durham Farmers Market
Dining etiquette & tips
Navigate the local food scene confidently.
NC BBQ joints often close when they run out of meat — arrive before 1pm for lunch
Most Asheville restaurants are casual-upscale; smart casual is appropriate everywhere
Tipping 18-22% is standard in NC full-service restaurants
Alcohol is sold at licensed restaurants; many craft breweries are BYOB-friendly for food
NC minimum drinking age is 21; ID required everywhere
Food budget guide
What to expect at different price points.
| Level | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $5-15/meal | Street food, local eateries, and simple restaurants. |
| Mid-range | $15-40/meal | Sit-down restaurants with good service and varied menus. |
| Upscale | $40+/meal | Fine dining, international cuisine, and premium experiences. |