2 NC Eateries Crowned Top in U.S. by Tripadvisor

North Carolina’s Fine Dining Gems Shine on National Stage

Fine dining is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines exceptional food, top-tier service, and an ambiance that elevates the entire dining journey. Two restaurants in North Carolina have recently made waves by being recognized as some of the best in the country for their outstanding offerings. According to Tripadvisor, these two establishments—Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern in Raleigh and Ristorante Paoletti in Highlands—have earned a spot among the Top 25 must-try fine dining spots in the United States.

Both restaurants received the prestigious Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title, which highlights eateries that consistently deliver unforgettable experiences. As Tripadvisor editors noted, “When you’re looking for the crème-de-la-crème, these are the places worth getting on the waitlist for.”

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern: A Taste of Elegance in Raleigh

Located at 330 Hillsborough St in downtown Raleigh, Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern is housed in the historic Dodd-Hinsdale House. This venue offers a blend of contemporary American cuisine with a refined flair. Diners can enjoy an elegant dinner upstairs in the main restaurant or opt for a more casual meal in the tavern, where they can savor light bites and local beers.

The restaurant has received high praise for its seasonal dishes, including duck breast and scallops, which are beautifully plated and presented. Recent customers have raved about the “delicious flavors, great wine, and very attentive service.” Must-try dishes like the citrus and herb salmon and chocolate soufflé have also garnered attention. One diner even praised the espresso martini as “the tops in the Raleigh area.”

In addition to its Tripadvisor recognition, Second Empire has been named one of Yelp’s Top 25 places to eat in the Triangle, alongside other local favorites such as Press Coffee Crêpes Cocktails in Durham and Saap in Cary.

Ristorante Paoletti: A Taste of Italy in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Nestled in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of Highlands, Ristorante Paoletti offers a refined take on Italian classics, seafood, and an impressive selection of fine wines. The restaurant recently earned the 2025 Best of Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator, highlighting its diverse menu of Italian, French, and Bordeaux wines.

Diners consistently praise the restaurant for its warm service, excellent value, and inviting atmosphere. According to Tripadvisor, “Homemade bread and a family vibe sets the scene at this Italian mainstay.” Guests often start with the light, crispy calamari and then move on to pasta specials, which are known for their generous portions.

Customer reviews highlight the exceptional quality of the food and service. One guest shared, “Excellent service starting with the hostesses Mama G and Regina seating us to our sommelier who selected an excellent Italian wine. We especially liked the carpaccio and the beet salad and the grouper and the fillet were world class.” Another guest described the bolognese as “amazing,” while another praised the trout and pastas as “truly memorable.”

It’s worth noting that Ristorante Paoletti is currently closed for the season and will reopen on April 16.

Other Top Fine Dining Restaurants in the U.S.

While Second Empire and Ristorante Paoletti stand out, they are not the only fine dining gems in the country. Here are some other top picks according to Tripadvisor:

• Revival in Charleston, SC (No. 1)
• Sazón in Santa Fe, New Mexico (No. 2)
• Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern in Raleigh, North Carolina (No. 3)
• Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina in Nashville, Tennessee (No. 4)
• La Grande Boucherie in Chicago, Illinois (No. 5)
• Brenner’s on the River Walk in San Antonio, Texas (No. 6)
• Primal Steakhouse in Las Vegas, Nevada (No. 7)
• Club A Steakhouse in New York City, New York (No. 8)
• Gallaghers Steakhouse in New York City, New York (No. 9)
• Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse in Lake Charles, Louisiana (No. 10)

For more details, visit tripadvisor.com.

Additional Highlights from North Carolina

North Carolina continues to make headlines in the culinary world. A recent story highlighted a Durham chef who debuted a unique dish called “Crazy Brazy” and a Raleigh chef who served as a guest judge on a popular cooking show. Additionally, the state is often referred to as the “seafood capital of the world” by Southern Living, showcasing its rich culinary heritage.