Where to Eat Near PNC Arena in North Carolina
Whether you’re local to Raleigh, NC or you’re going to the PNC Arena for an event, you want to know where the best restaurants are. You’re likely craving the same things we are – flavor, quality ingredients, and atmosphere. We’ve got recommendations for you for breakfast, lunch, and even a late-night snack after an event at the PNC Arena in North Carolina.
Backyard Bistro
1235 Hurricane Alley Way, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 851-6203
When you want to eat close enough to the PNC Arena that you can walk back and forth, Backyard Bistro is an excellent choice. The sports-themed restaurant has TVs throughout. The quintessential American menu features such favorites as bistro shrimp & grits, brisket mac, and a cowboy ribeye. Plan to bring your appetite with you because portions are hearty. There’s also a dessert menu featuring such delicious items as chocolate cake and peanut butter pie. The full bar will also provide you with anything you might want to drink, including an exceptional triple chocolate martini.
Bru’s Public House
5433 Wade Park Blvd #100, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 977-8755
Bru’s Public House offers a large menu to satisfy any cravings. They’re open until 11 PM on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, too, which can ensure you’re fed no matter what your plans are. The vibe inside is fun with high-tops, TVs around the bar, and seating both inside and out. The menu includes salads, pizzas, burgers, and one of our favorites, the Chipotle Chicken Pasta. You’ll also find craft cocktails and plenty of daily specials from the bar to round out your lunch or dinner.
Wade Cafe
5430 Wade Park Blvd, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 859-5220
Wade Café is open for breakfast and lunch, offering a vibrant start to your day. Breakfast sandwiches, croissants, and double-decker clubs are just some of what you can expect off the menu. The friendly staff welcomes you to the airy dining room with checkered tablecloths. And when the weather is nice, you may be invited to dine on the patio overlooking the main road. It’s unfussy food that has become quite popular with locals and tourists alike.
Neomonde Mediterranean Restaurant
3817 Beryl Rd, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 828-1628
Neomonde stands out because of having a lunch counter, a grocery area, as well as a buffet. You’ll find creative Lebanese dishes that are made with local and organic ingredients. Plus, many options are vegan, vegetarian, and/or gluten-free to accommodate various dietary needs. Don’t miss out on the weekly specials, too, where you can find such things as veggie curry and grilled salmon kabobs. Casual seating inside and out is also flexible enough to accommodate larger parties.
Bella Monica
3121 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27612
(919) 881-9778
Bella Monica is a small Italian eatery just a few miles from the PNC Arena. The casual restaurant has been around for over 20 years, so it’s proof that they have delicious food and great service. Calamari, rollatini, Bolognese, and all of the classics are found across the menu. Every now and again, you’ll find a featured menu that includes appetizers, entrees, and desserts, which is when you can get a great tasting of what they have to offer. You’ll also find a full bar as well as a coffee bar where you can get espresso, artisan tea, and more.
The Oak
4035 Lake Boone Trail, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 787-9100
You can’t truly say you’ve been to the Carolinas without drinking some bourbon. the Oak is a bourbon bar that is great for date night, and reservations are highly recommended. The industrial-chic atmosphere is welcoming, and you’ll find both indoor and outdoor seating. The New American menu features local ingredients that are used to create such dishes as a bourbon-cherry filet, NC shrimp sliders, and more. And while bourbon is the main focus at the bar, they do have other cocktails as well as a full list of beers and wines.
Guasaca
4025 Lake Boone Trail # 107, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 322-4928
Guasaca is a laid-back Latin American restaurant where you can order at the counter and grab a seat inside or at an umbrella-covered table outside. Custom arepas allow you to create the ultimate meal for lunch or dinner. You can choose from such proteins as chicken, steak, pork, salmon, and even tilapia. Then, you add in your fillings and sauces. Don’t let it get overwhelming; there are always friendly staff members ready to help you build something incredible.
Gym Tacos
3701 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27607
(919) 615-1366
Simple and flavorful tacos are found at Gym Tacos. It’s a counter-serve establishment where you’ll find a long list of proteins that you can place inside tacos as well as burritos, tortas, and tostadas. The Surf n Turf Burrito may be our favorite as it includes steak and shrimp. There’s adequate seating inside, but the picnic tables outside are the perfect place to indulge in whatever you have ordered. Bottled and draft beer is also available.
For more recommendations on where to eat and drink in the city, check out our Charlotte page, here!