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North Carolina has firmly established itself as a rising star in the world of American cuisine, with chefs and restaurants across the state earning recognition from the prestigious James Beard Foundation. Known as the "Oscars of Food," the James Beard Awards celebrate culinary excellence, and North Carolina's nominees embody a deep respect for tradition, innovation and community. These talented chefs and unique dining experiences have put North Carolina on the culinary map.
1 Seabird, Chef Dean NEff
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1 Seabird, Chef Dean NEff
Wilmington See on map
Chef Dean Neff has built Seabird into a destination that speaks to the heart of coastal North Carolina. As a 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Outstanding Chef, Neff combines his deep respect for seasonal, sustainable ingredients with a minimalist approach to seafood. Each dish is crafted to honor the coastal community’s local fisheries and exemplifies Neff’s ethos: unpretentious and wholly dedicated to flavor. Seabird doesn’t overwhelm you with complexity; it celebrates what nature offers in a fun and modern setting, and that’s what makes it unforgettable.
2 Crawford and Son, Chef Scott Crawford
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2 Crawford and Son, Chef Scott Crawford
Raleigh See on mapAt Crawford and Son, Chef Scott Crawford presents dishes that feel both personal and ambitious. A five-time James Beard semifinalist, including for Outstanding Hospitality in 2024, Crawford goes beyond the menu, weaving a sense of place and community into every aspect of the dining experience. The restaurant’s understated interior complements his food, which is grounded in the traditions of Southern comfort yet reimagined with modern, refined techniques.
3 Poole's Diner, Chef Ashley Christensen
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3 Poole's Diner, Chef Ashley Christensen
Raleigh See on mapIf you’re interested in culinary excellence, Raleigh’s Ashley Christensen is a name that should be on your radar. Named the James Beard Outstanding Chef in 2019 and Best Chef: Southeast in 2014, Christensen has played a huge role in making Raleigh a culinary hotspot over the last decade. For a bite of elevated comfort, Poole’s Diner is a local favorite but you’ll also find her concepts are as varied as they are mouthwatering. Try one of the iconic Southern combinations served at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, or snag a table at the chic Death & Taxes and experience a wood-fired cooked course or two.
4 Ajja, Chefs Cheetie Kumar and Paul Siler
4 Ajja, Chefs Cheetie Kumar and Paul Siler
Raleigh See on mapAjja, named a 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Best New Restaurant, offers a hip and vibrant dining experience that pulls from the vast culinary traditions of the Mediterranean and Middle East. Helmed by Cheetie Kumar and Paul Siler, this restaurant isn’t just about food; it’s about cultural storytelling. The dishes reflect the diverse background of these entrepreneurs, from music halls to global travels, combining bold flavors with intentionality in a space that feels both playful and refined.
5 Good Hot Fish, Chef Ashleigh Shanti
5 Good Hot Fish, Chef Ashleigh Shanti
AshevilleSee on mapChef Ashleigh Shanti, a 2020 James Beard Rising Star Chef nominee, brings a fresh take on traditional Appalachian seafood with Good Hot Fish. Originally a pop-up concept, the straightforwardly named Good Hot Fish has now found a more permanent home that pays homage to North Carolina’s fish camp history. Shanti's walk-up counter concept focuses on celebrating the timeless Southern tradition of classic fried fish dinners, pairing alongside delicious and inventive sides. If you’re looking for a spot filled with classic dishes and flavorful innovation, don’t miss out.
6 The Market Place, Chef William Dissen
6 The Market Place, Chef William Dissen
Asheville See on mapChef William Dissen has championed the farm-to-table movement long before it was trendy, and his commitment to sustainability and local sourcing is evident in every dish. As a 2024 semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant, The Market Place has solidified itself as a culinary institution in Asheville having held its downtown location since 1979. The menu is emblematic of Dissen’s philosophy — letting the fresh Appalachian ingredients speak for themselves while elevating them with just the right touch, something he approaches with a “keen reverence.” Dining here is an invitation to taste the land and waters of North Carolina, a journey that is as much about place as it is about flavor.
7 The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge, Chef Hunter Womble
7 The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge, Chef Hunter Womble
Blowing Rock See on mapWith sweeping views of the Appalachian Mountains, The Restaurant at Gideon Ridge offers more than just a meal — it offers an experience. A 2024 semifinalist for Outstanding Restaurant, this beloved spot focuses on seasonality, allowing its chefs to adapt the menu to the freshest ingredients available. See how each bite is enhanced by the striking natural setting surrounding you, making for a truly singular dining experience.
8 Bobby Boy Bakeshop, Chef Josh Coe
8 Bobby Boy Bakeshop, Chef Josh Coe
Winston Salem See on mapBobby Boy Bakeshop, a 2024 semifinalist for Outstanding Bakery, is where tradition meets artistry. Chef Josh Coe’s meticulous approach to baking results in some of the finest pastries in North Carolina. The croissants, made with expert precision, are buttery, flaky and full of texture — perfect representations of the craftsmanship that defines Bobby Boy. This bakeshop isn’t just about grabbing a quick pastry; it’s about indulging in something made with care and passion, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
9 The Hackney, Chef Jamie Davis
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9 The Hackney, Chef Jamie Davis
Washington See on mapIn the quiet town of Washington, Chef Jamie Davis has created a culinary destination at The Hackney. As a 2024 James Beard Finalist for Best Chef: Southeast, Davis is known for his attention to detail and use of local ingredients. At The Hackney, Davis uses a “local, seasonal and simple” approach to transform Southern classics into modern masterpieces, including his signature sought-after shrimp and grits, a menu staple. The restaurant is more than just a place to eat; it’s a space where tradition meets creativity, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking both small-town charm and exciting culinary experiences.
10 Plant, Chef Jason Sellers
10 Plant, Chef Jason Sellers
Asheville See on mapPlant is a testament to the growing potential of vegan cuisine, led by Chef Jason Sellers, a 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef: Southeast. At Plant, Sellers has created a space where plant-based dishes don’t just substitute for meat — they redefine what vegan food can be. The flavors are bold, the presentation is thoughtful and the experience is elevated beyond expectations. Dishes such as the Smoked Portobello prove that vegan food can be as rich and satisfying as any other cuisine. Regardless of your dietary leaning, you’ll find a dish that nourishes your appetite for flavor at Plant.
11 Dalaya Thai Cuisine, Chef Kanlaya “Gun” Supachana
11 Dalaya Thai Cuisine, Chef Kanlaya “Gun” Supachana
Sylva See on mapIn the small town of Sylva, Chef Kanlaya “Gun” Supachana has introduced a fresh take on traditional Thai cuisine. Dalaya Thai Cuisine is a place where authentic Thai flavors shine, with dishes that strike the perfect balance of heat, sweetness and acidity. Supachana’s ability to highlight the nuances of Thai cooking has earned Dalaya a devoted following, offering Western North Carolina a taste of something new and exciting in a location filled with the spirit of hospitality.
12 Cheeni, Chef Preeti Waas
12 Cheeni, Chef Preeti Waas
DurhamSee on mapChef Preeti Waas, a 2024 James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef: Southeast, continues to expand her creative culinary vision with Cheeni. Known for her ability to balance vibrant Indian flavors with modern techniques, Waas has transformed Cheeni from a small café concept into a full-service restaurant that showcases her deep knowledge and love of traditional Indian food while leveraging fresh local North Carolinian ingredients.
13 Bittersweet, Chef Phoebe Lawless
13 Bittersweet, Chef Phoebe Lawless
Raleigh See on mapKnown for its unique blend of artisanal cocktails and decadent desserts, Bittersweet brings a fresh energy to downtown Raleigh. Under the leadership of Chef Phoebe Lawless, this cocktail and dessert lounge was a 2024 semifinalist for Outstanding Bar. The combination of inventive drink pairings with carefully crafted sweets creates an unexpectedly delightful experience. This is a place where you can treat yourself to a bit of indulgence in every sense.
14 Saltbox Seafood Joint, Chef Ricky Moore
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14 Saltbox Seafood Joint, Chef Ricky Moore
Durham See on mapChef Ricky Moore has created a no-frills seafood joint that puts fresh, local ingredients at the forefront. As the 2022 James Beard Best Chef: Southeast award winner, Moore’s approach is simple yet masterful. Saltbox Seafood Joint serves seafood the way it should be: fresh, flavorful and prepared with a deep respect for the local catch. The fried catfish is a signature dish that captures the essence of his approach — honest, unpretentious and rooted in the traditions of coastal North Carolina.
15 CĂşrate, Chef Katie Button
15 CĂşrate, Chef Katie Button
Asheville See on mapChef Katie Button’s Cúrate has become synonymous with the best Spanish-style tapas in Asheville. A multiple James Beard semifinalist, including a nod in 2023 for Best Chef: Southeast, Button has created a space that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of Spain. Delicious bites packed with flavor and designed to share are the focus of the experience, representing the essence of what Cúrate strives for — authenticity paired with the highest-quality ingredients.
16 Chai Pani, Chef Meherwan Irani
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16 Chai Pani, Chef Meherwan Irani
Asheville See on mapChef Meherwan Irani’s Chai Pani brings the bold and vibrant flavors of Indian street food to Asheville, blending tradition with innovation. As the winner of the 2022 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant, Chai Pani has gained national acclaim for its ability to take humble street snacks and elevate them into something extraordinary. If you want to take a bit of the flavor experience home to your own kitchen, you can also shop from its on-site sister brand, Spicewalla.
