10 NC restaurants named ‘best of the best’ in the US, TripAdvisor says

From up-and-coming concepts to award-winning classics, North Carolina’s food scene is full of delicious dining spots — including a few that have been named among the best in the country.

TripAdvisor released its annual Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best winners, highlighting the ultimate destinations, hotels, restaurants and things to do around the world.

The “Best of the Best” title is awarded to sites with “above-and-beyond reviews and opinions” over a 12-month period. Out of its 8 million listings, it’s a milestone that fewer than 1% achieve, according to the travel site.

Of the all top-rated restaurants boasted as the best, these in North Carolina were spotlighted across different dining categories.

Best fine dining restaurants

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern in Raleigh

• Ranking: 3
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.8
• “True to its name, Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern leans into an elegant, historical vibe. And it has the seasonal dishes to match—think duck breast and scallops—all beautifully plated and presented. The staff knows the menu front to back and can walk you through the solid wine list, too. Don’t skip cocktails or dessert that bookend the experience,” the TripAdvisor report says.

Ristorante Paoletti in Highlands

• Ranking: 13
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.7
• “Homemade bread and a family vibe sets the scene at this Italian mainstay. Start with the light, crispy calamari and try a pasta special or two—heaping portions make sure no one leaves hungry. But save room for classic desserts like tiramisu. Staff add to the warm atmosphere and can walk you through their solid wine list,” the report says.

Best casual dining restaurants

Jettie Rae’s in Asheville

• Ranking: 4
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.8
• “Jettie Rae’s Oyster House is a neighborhood seafood spot in Asheville, North Carolina. They serve up the classics—shrimp, oysters, lobster rolls, and the like—in a warm, welcoming space. Due to the restaurant’s popularity with locals and visitors, reservations are recommended,” the report says.

Posana Downtown in Asheville

• Ranking: 7
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.6
• “Posana Downtown Asheville feels both elegant and approachable with its modern decor and relaxed vibe. You’re in good hands with the staff, and the creative plating from the kitchen makes each dish look like art. If you’re into wine, the list is deep, and the chef’s seasonal plates, especially the local trout, are worth trying,” the report says.

Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian South in Asheville

• Ranking: 23
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.8
• “Friendly staff, large portions, delicious pasta, charming decor—Vinnie’s is everything you want in an Italian restaurant. Reasonable prices and top-notch service make this a great spot for families. Don’t be surprised if the rhythmic sounds of martinis being shaken tempt you to order from the creative cocktail menu,” the report says.

Best hidden gems in the U.S.

The Copper Door in Hayesville

• Ranking: 4
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.8
• “The Copper Door has a warm atmosphere and a creative menu that stands out for both presentation and flavor. You might want to try the signature short rib or something from the seafood section. The staff really knows their stuff and handles special requests smoothly. Don’t skip a cocktail—they’ve got an impressive drink list that pairs well with the food,” the report says.

Lakeside Restaurant in Highlands

• Ranking: 18
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.7
• “You’ll find Lakeside Restaurant right on the water, with an outdoor terrace that’s perfect for sunset. The menu’s got lots of variety, with generous portions and really nice presentation—try the locally inspired main dishes and don’t skip dessert. Service is quick and the staff are genuinely friendly. It’s easy to relax here without feeling crowded, even on busy nights,” the report says. 

At Elm St. Grill in Greensboro

• Ranking: 25
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.6
• “At Elm St Grill, you’ll spot tasteful decor, warm lighting, and a laid-back atmosphere that works for groups or casual catch-ups. The menu covers plenty of ground—fresh salads, flavorful mains, and an impressive drink list. Don’t skip the house burger or the grilled salmon. Staff keep things friendly and attentive, making it easy to relax and linger,” the report says.

Best date night restaurants

Cafe Pamlico in Buxton

• Ranking: 7
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.7
• “Cafe Pamlico is located in Buxton, North Carolina and offers a world-class dining experience with exceptional food and detail-oriented service. Their contemporary coastal cuisine is driven by locally sourced seafood, meats, and produce, and they are committed to supporting local farmers and artisan food producers. Reservations are highly recommended,” the report say.

Best vegan & vegetarian restaurants

Posana Downtown in Asheville

• Ranking: 12
• TripAdvisor rating: 4.6
• “Posana Downtown Asheville feels both elegant and approachable with its modern decor and relaxed vibe. You’re in good hands with the staff, and the creative plating from the kitchen makes each dish look like art. If you’re into wine, the list is deep, and the chef’s seasonal plates, especially the local trout, are worth trying,” the report says. 

Previous best restaurants

This isn’t the first time some of these fan-favorite spots were featured as top-rated restaurants by TripAdvisor.

Last year, Vinnie’s Neighborhood Italian and Jettie Rae’s Oyster House were named among the best for casual dining, The Charlotte Observer previously reported. In 2023, Cafe Pamlico was ranked as one of the top hidden gems.

This story was originally published October 3, 2025 at 10:55 AM.