Top 20 Best Carrboro NC Restaurants From a Local - A Full Guide

The Triangle area of North Carolina offers great options for all kinds of foodies. Carrboro, which is a small community next to Chapel Hill, offers some amazing places for a nice meal or quick takeout. In this review, we’ve broken down the best restaurants in Carrboro that you should definitely check out. 

Oakleaf 

If you’re looking for an upscale dinner, look no further than Oakleaf. It’s a perfect place for a celebration with a seasonal menu that incorporates fresh, local ingredients, and tasting menus. The atmosphere is calm and sure to make your dinner enjoyable.

Glasshalfull

Glasshalfull, clever with its name and dishes, offers modern American cuisine and a fun cocktail menu. They offer farm-to-table dining and a wine bar to pair with your meal. This is a great spot for lunch or dinner.

Carrburritos

When a quick lunch is in need, Carrburritos has you covered. They offer a casual Mexican menu equipped with margaritas and a chill area to eat. Indoor and outdoor seating is available and online ordering makes pick-up quick and easy.

Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant

When sushi cravings arise, Akai Hana is the place to go. Their menu offers both sushi and Japanese dishes. The restaurant indoors and outdoors will pair perfectly to make your meal an entire experience. 

Acme

Another locally sourced dinner favorite is Acme. They are only open for dinner, so be sure to save a spot for their local beer and seasonal menu. This hidden gem is always a pleaser for a nice dinner or celebratory occasion. 

Thai Station

Craving a yummy curry or pad Thai? Thai Station has the perfect Thai cuisine staples to order. The restaurant is situated in an old railroad car, i.e. station. The vibe is fun and decently priced to make a great lunch or dinner.

Neal’s Deli

If you’re in need of a quick sandwich, Neal’s Deli is the place to go. They use fresh ingredients from the local farmers' market to craft their easy, yet delicious lunch grabs. 

Rise

We can’t forget about breakfast. Rise is the perfect place to grab a southern biscuit. With all kinds of biscuits, including health-conscious options, you’re guaranteed to have your first meal fixed.

Venable Rotisserie Bistro

Venable’s global-inspired menu, paired with craft beer and wine, creates an experience to go with your meal. They offer a rotating menu with options for brunch and dinner.

Napoli Pizzeria and Gelateria 

Pizza in Carrboro is no joke. With their pizza toppings such as apricot, you’re guaranteed to find something new and yummy to try. All their pizzas are wood-fired which makes the taste rich and eclectic. With indoor and outdoor seating, Napoli's fun and sophisticated vibe for pizza never disappoints. 

Tesoro

And beyond pizza, Carrboro also takes its pasta seriously. At Tesoro, you’ll find a small, perfected menu to fulfill your Italian cravings. The small feel will help you have a quaint, intimate dining experience.

Spotted Dog

Spotted Dog is a vegetarian paradise with a meat-free menu. As their name suggests, pets are welcomed, on the outside patio of course. Their menu is fun and incorporates veggie-friendly items.

401 Main

Another Carrboro hidden gem is 401 Main. They offer a range of fun foods like fried pickles and hoagie sandwiches. Be sure to get one of their hand-crafted cocktails to make the perfect pairing for a groovy night.

Jade Palace

All of your Chinese cravings are sure to be settled with a trip to Jade Palace. Their menu is a full Chinese delight in a simple, casual setting. They have great lunch deals and are a great dinner takeout option too.

Armadillo Grill

If you’re in the mood for Tex-Mex, Armadillo Grill’s menu will not disappoint. Their soft tacos and burritos work well in a pinch or for a casual dinner.

Iza Whiskey and Eats

Iza is a fun place that offers Japanese-fusion small plates. If you’re looking for a place to have a fun night with cocktails, apps, and conversations, Iza has you covered. There are places to sit indoors or outdoors with firepits.

Tandem

We had to add another upscale farm to the table destination, Tandem. This Carrboro staple is a great nice restaurant to treat yourself to. Their fresh menu will ensure your fine dinner.

Carrboro Pizza Oven

Need a quick slice of pizza without compromising any flavor or ingredients? Carrboro Pizza Oven. CPO offers gluten-free options and a New York experience all in the heart of Carrboro, NC.

Grata Cafe

Grate Cafe is the perfect little brunch and dinner spot. Their casual vibe is inviting and ensures a great environment for relaxing over a good meal.

Cham Thai Cuisine

To end on another Asian cuisine note, Cham Thai is a great and reasonably priced option. Their Mongolian beef is a real crowd pleaser. Their authentic prep also makes them a great place to explore some new dishes.

Conclusion

While Carrboro may not be the biggest community, it has a lot to offer for any foodie and we're confident if you follow this list you'll find a lot of good eats.