The Best Restaurants for Special Occasions in Raleigh, N.C.
Wednesday, April 24, 2024, 9am by visitRaleigh

Whether it’s an anniversary, birthday, wedding rehearsal or another monumental life event, the many restaurants in the Raleigh area are stepping up their game when it comes to special occasions. Find the perfect setting for your next big celebration at one of these top spots for birthday bashes, family gatherings and more.
Caffe Luna
The fine wine of Tuscany has made its way to downtown Raleigh via Caffe Luna, an Italian-American eatery with a Tuscan flair. Located in a charming historic building in downtown Raleigh, Caffe Luna boasts three private dining rooms for merrymaking events of various sizes. You’ll walk away from any celebration here with a full belly and full heart.
42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill
Tucked away in Raleigh's Glenwood South area, 42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill embraces the simple pleasures of cold beer and fresh oysters. Since 1931, this spot for fun and casual get-togethers has been a landmark restaurant in the South. A big restaurant for big groups, if you time your special occasion right you may get to enjoy live music as well!
Amalia's Authentic Italian Restaurant
Opened in 2019 by chef-owner Filippo Fanfani, Amalia’s honors his grandmother’s legacy with authentic Italian cuisine. Set in a beautifully restored 1800s home, candlelit tables, exposed brick, a wood-burning fireplace and vintage details create an intimate, old-world ambiance—while a menu rooted in family recipes delivers rich, authentic flavors. It’s an inviting escape perfect for romantic evenings and special celebrations.
Vidrio
Vidrio’s vibrant and colorful interior lends itself as the perfect option for both smaller gatherings and 250-people festivities (the upstairs private event space is one of our top picks for most gorgeous celebratory backdrops). Eat, drink and be merry at this Mediterranean hotspot where their talented event planners are ready to make your next party one for the books.
Death & Taxes
Chef Ashley Christensen, named America’s Best Chef by the James Beard Foundation in 2019, is serving up good memories to accompany her wood-fired cooking at Death & Taxes. Housed in a historic bank building in downtown Raleigh, this unique space is ideal for enjoying the finest food with the finest people. Just upstairs from the restaurant, you’ll find the Bridge Club, an event loft for social gatherings with magnificent views. Linger on the second floor for intimate cocktail parties and dinners or make your way up to the third floor for bashes up to 100 people.
Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern
One of the most romantic restaurants in Raleigh resides in the restored Dodd-Hinsdale House (circa 1879) on Hillsborough St. With its classical elegance, friendly staff, world-class wine and delicious cuisine, Second Empire beckons guests to an unforgettable evening celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones.
Margaux's Restaurant
For more than 30 years now, this North Raleigh neighborhood staple's ever-changing menu has been served with a side of Southern hospitality and an ambiance—indoors and out—that invites guests to stay a while. Since joining the restaurant in 1996, Chef Andrew Pettifer's award-winning fusion of French, Southern and Asian cuisines has made Margaux's a household name and a top choice when choosing a restaurant for special occasions and celebrations.
Herons at the Umstead Hotel and Spa
Located at The Umstead Hotel & Spa in Cary, Herons wows guests by serving everything from southern fare like pork belly to northern seafood like Maine lobster. Sit outside on their outdoor terrace and soak in the panoramic views of the lake, butterfly gardens and herb garden—from which fresh herbs often make their way to your plate! For classy affairs, reserve the private Chef’s Table that seats up to 12 and experience their extensive food and wine-paired tasting menus. Herons was named one of America's 30 best restaurants in 2019!
Angus Barn
Angus Barn has been family owned for more than 50 years—which means they understand the concept of having a good time! From corporate events to birthdays, rehearsal dinners to retirements, this award-winning steakhouse is ready to dazzle attendees with its incredible Angus beef dishes and perfect event spaces. Local tip: This is also home to one of the largest wine cellars in the country and a lakeside pavilion for larger rendezvous.
Jolie
Stroll through the N. Person St. neighborhood and stumble upon Jolie, a small but spirited French bistro from acclaimed chef Scott Crawford available for both private bookings and large parties. Chat with friends in the main dining room, or for more romantic events, wander up to their magical, candlelit rooftop and enjoy the scents of fresh lavender and rosemary from the garden.
Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar
Mulino provides a dining experience that takes the curious on a richly-rewarding gastronomic journey across the Italian culinary landscape and rewards the intrepid adventurer with simple yet sumptuous cuisine, wines, and a complementary culinary education in the history of Italian cuisine—all in a (very!) cozy environment. For groups big and small, Mulino fits the bill. The jaw-dropping outdoor patio—pool included—has capacity for up to 350 people.
Header photo by Brian Strickland
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Author: visitRaleigh
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