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 Dining out is a $9 billion industry in North Carolina. The Tar Heel State is
home to some 12,000 restaurants, according to the North Carolina Restaurant
Association (NCRA) in Raleigh. Taken together, they are responsible for the
employment of nearly a quarter-million people. But there is a far larger
economic impact when you stop to consider the value of the business that is
transacted over a good meal. “A lot of the most important business decisions
are made over breaking bread,” says David Huskins, a third generation
restaurateur and the president of Ridgetop Associates, a management and
government relations firm.
Huskins’ favorite spot to bring clients is Raleigh’s Angus Barn, the rustic
shine to American carnivorousness. The establishment, a winner in the category
of “Best Restaurant to Entertain Clients,” opened in 1960 and has become
legendary for its exceptional wine list, said to be one of the nation’s most
extensive. But for Huskins, the Angus Barn offers more than simply a fine meal
and drinks. “It’s experiential,” he says. The establishment’s
impeccable service and accommodating staff always ensure the night will be a
special one. “They put their customers first and foremost in every
circumstance,” Huskins says. “It’s just a wonderful experience.”
According to our readers, the same can be said for two Asheville restaurants
that offer terrific food in addition to a luxurious night’s stay. The Grove
Park Inn offers several dining options that are sure to whet one’s appetite.
Among them is Horizon’s, which earned top honors in the area for “Best
Restaurant to Entertain Clients.” Across town, the highly acclaimed restaurant
at Inn on Biltmore received similar accolades for “Best Restaurant While
Traveling on Business.”
When entertaining clients in Charlotte, Steve Huggins, senior vice president for
strategic resources and information technology at Goodrich Corp., likes Mimosa
Grill, a classy eatery in the heart of the city’s bustling central business
district. “It’s a nice, quiet place for carrying on a conversation,”
Huggins says. Unlike the deafening clamor of some uptown restaurants, Mimosa
offers a “more genteel” environment with staff that doesn’t rush diners
through their meal. Huggins also takes business associates to Palomino, a bright
establishment offering American cuisine with a progressive flare. “It’s a
New York kind of place with a more innovative menu than most restaurants
here,” Huggins says.
Sarah Gaillard, deputy executive director for business development at the North
Carolina Ports Authority, recommends Wilmington’s Café Phoenix for business
or family dining. The establishment, which radiates the continental vibe of a
Parisian bistro, was awarded an Honorable Mention. With its high ceilings and
large windows, Café Phoenix offers an airiness that immediately sets diners at
ease, Gaillard notes. “It’s a very relaxed environment,” Galliard says,
“and the food is always very tastefully done.”
Just up the street, Wilmington’s City Club took the highest honors as the Port
City’s “Best Restaurant for a Business Lunch.” The Club, like Wilmington
itself, boasts an eclectic mix of innovative dishes and longtime favorites amid
a backdrop of antebellum charm. “The atmosphere is very unique,” says Scott
Satterfield, CEO of Wilmington Industrial Development, which markets Wilmington
and surrounding communities as a business destination. While the club’s
brightly lit main dining room is an ideal place to see and be seen, Satterfield
recommends those business people needing privacy reserve one of its private
rooms.
As great lunch spots go, few can beat Raleigh’s Glenwood Grill. The urbane
restaurant’s location, near enough to downtown but without the usual parking
headaches, is part of the reason it has become a favorite for J.B. Milliken,
senior vice president for university affairs for the University of North
Carolina General Administration. “I like the fact that I don’t see everyone
I know there,” Milliken says. Along with great food and service, Milliken
likes the Grill’s light, airy atmosphere. “For lunch, that’s definitely at
the top of my list,” he says. Milliken also favors Chapel Hill’s Glen Lenox
Grill, which received an Honorable Mention in the survey, as a luncheon
destination.
The Village Tavern, a Winston-Salem dining tradition, won top billing as a
“Best Restaurant While Traveling on Business.” For Huskins and his wife,
Betty, the Village Tavern is a regular stopping point during their frequent
trips to Raleigh from their home in Linville Falls. “It’s one of our
favorites,” David Huskins says. “If we’re coming through Winston-Salem
during meal time, we’ll definitely stop there.” Making the “Highly
Recommended” list was Sullivan’s, a national chain of steakhouses with
outposts in Raleigh and Charlotte. “Sullivan’s does an outstanding job,”
says Huskins. “I’ve never had a disappointing meal there — and you can’t
beat the (Raleigh location’s) convenience.”
Sullivan’s in Charlotte tied for the top position as “Best Place to Take
Your Staff,” sharing the honors with the youth-oriented Rock Bottom Brewery.
“You won’t offend too many people by taking them to a steakhouse,” says
Goodrich’s Huggins. Coming in as Highly Recommended in Charlotte was P.F.
Chang’s, the ultra-popular gourmet Chinese chain. “P.F. Chang’s has a very
nice menu,” Huggins says. “It can please a good cross section of people.”
In Greenville, the Beef Barn was among the top choices in the category. Last
year, the well-known steak and seafood restaurant’s lengthy wine list won an
Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator
magazine.
In a related category, “Best Restaurant When the Boss in Buying,” the Beef
Barn came in highly recommended, as was Jerry’s in Wilmington. The latter,
which offers an enticing array of fresh local seafood and aged prime beef, is a
favorite of the Port Authority’s Gaillard. “Jerry’s is just super,” she
says. The top two picks in the category for Durham, Magnolia Grill and Nana’s,
offer a combination of quality food, excellent service, convenience and the
perfect ambiance. “I really like the atmosphere at Nana’s,” says Dr. James
Ammons, chancellor at North Carolina Central University. “It’s truly
exquisite.” Ammons recommends the seafood dishes at Nana’s, as well as those
of the Magnolia Grill. Both establishments are within easy access of Ammons’
home, something else he likes, and each possesses an exceptional wait staff, he
says. “Service is always a very important consideration for me.”
The magazine’s best restaurants survey was conducted through the NCCBI web
site earlier this year and attracted nearly 1,000 respondents.
Tips
for successful entertaining
Like it or not, corporate dining is about much more than food
Henry Ford would neither hire nor
promote people he noticed salting their food before tasting it. He felt the
habit was symptomatic of someone who acted without first obtaining all the
requisite information.
Like it or not, corporate dining is about much more than food. It involves
connecting with another individual and marketing yourself, your company or
community. “When I’m entertaining clients, I want to go to a place I know is
good,” explains Scott Satterfield, CEO of Wilmington Industrial Development (WID).
Then he considers the personality and practical needs of the client. “Is their
style more formal or informal?” Satterfield also recommends considering the
client’s scheduling needs. Do they have time to relax over a multi-course
meal, or do they have an early flight to catch the following morning. “It’s
also important to consider the level of privacy both you and the client
require,” says Satterfield, whose organization frequently works with
corporations whose site searches are held in the strictest confidence.
Dietary considerations are also something to check out in advance. “I ask
about this upfront,” Satterfield says. “If they’re allergic to seafood,
taking them to a fish house won’t earn you any points.” Similarly, a
vegetarian is unlikely to find a steakhouse terribly comforting. “Hopefully,
you get to know clients well enough to where that’s not an issue,”
Satterfield says.
For David Huskins, a lobbyist and owner of Spear’s BBQ & Grill in Linville
Falls, advanced research is the key to a successful client meal. Huskins will
quietly query a client’s secretary in order to gauge tastes and preferences.
“Is he or she a wine drinker, for example,” Huskins asks. Beyond that, he
uses his subtle powers of observation to discern what a client likes. “I make
mental notes when I see people eating and drinking,” he says.
Huskins reckons he dropped about $7,300 on client meals in 2002, money he
believes was well spent. “When you get someone out of their office and into a
dining environment, they become much more relaxed,” he says. The sentiment is
echoed by WID’s Satterfield, who strives to balance his group’s bottom line
against the goal of creating a memorable experience for the client. “There are
always budgetary considerations to think about, especially in these economic
times,” Satterfield says. “But you should never skimp on a client.”
— Lawrence Bivins
The best
restaurants in North Carolina
Based on our online poll of magazine
readers
Best restaurants to entertain clients
Best restaurants for a business lunch
Best restaurants when
traveling on business
Best
restaurants to take the staff
Best
restaurants when the boss is buying
Best restaurants
to entertain clients
Asheville Area
Winner
Horizons Restaurant
290 Macon Avenue
Asheville, N.C. 28804
Phone: 828-252-2711
www.groveparkinn.com
Horizons Restaurant at the historic Grove Park Inn provides an elegant fine
dining experience featuring innovative classic cuisine, an excellent wine list,
nightly entertainment and breathtaking views. Complete dinners range from $65 to
$79.
Highly Recommended
The Greenery
148 Tunnel Road
Asheville, N.C. 28805
Phone: 828-253-2809
www.greeneryrestaurant.net
Charlotte Area
Winner (tie)
The Capital Grille
IJL Financial Center
201 N. Tryon Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
Phone: 704-348-1400
www.thecapitalgrille.com
A fine dining restaurant, the Capital Grille specializes in personalized service
in an elegant atmosphere. The menu consists of a variety of cuisines, including
dry aged steaks, seafood, desserts, and numerous award-winning wines.
Upstream
6902 Phillips Place
Charlotte, N.C. 28210
Phone: 704-556-7730
www.upstreamseafood.com/charlotte.htm
Providing professional service in an elegant atmosphere, Upstream specializes in
a variety of fresh seafood. The colors and designs found within the restaurant
give the sensation of being at the beach, complimenting the entrees and the
variety of wines available. Entrees range from $18 to $28.
Highly Recommended
The Palm
6705-B Phillips Place Court
Charlotte, N.C. 28210
Phone: 704-552-7256
www.thepalm.com
Greenville Area
Winner
Chefs 505
505 Red Banks Road
Greenville, N.C. 27858
Phone: 252-355-7505
This Greenville restaurant creates inspired Neuveau cuisine with European
ingredients and a southern flair. Menus are changed nightly. House specialties
include crab cakes and soft shelled crabs. Dinner entrees range from $16 to $26.
Highly Recommended
Christinne’s World Cuisine
207 Greenville Blvd. SW
Greenville, N.C. 27834
Phone: (252) 355-9500
www.hilton.com
Triad Area
Winner (Winston-Salem, tie)
Noble’s Grill
380 Knollwood Street
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27103
Phone: 336-777-8477
www.noblesrestaurants.com
The finest ingredients are put into each entrée, which is prepared by hand. The
atmosphere is comfortable and friendly, making Noble’s a great place to dine.
Dinner entrees range from $21 to $29.
Ryan’s Restaurant
719 Coliseum Drive
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27106
Phone: 336-724-6132
www.1stinfinedining.com
Enjoy entrees such as steaks and prime rib or fresh fish and Maine lobster at
Ryan’s. Large oaks and a rolling stream can be viewed from the window-side
tables or the large outdoor deck. A cozy fireplace brings comfort to diners in
the winter. Dinner entrees range from $20 to $25.
Highly Recommended
Restaurant J. Busul Noble
101 S. Main Street
High Point, N.C. 27260
Phone: 336-889-3354
www.noblesrestaurants.com
Triangle Area
Winner (Chapel Hill)
Il Palio Ristorante
1505 E. Franklin Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514
Phone: 919-918-2545
www.sienahotel.com/il_palio_restaurant.htm
Luxurious décor makes the dining experience complete at this Italian restaurant
located at the Sienna Hotel. The average dinner entrée is between $20 and $25.
Highly Recommended
Carolina CrossRoads Restaurant
211 Pittsboro Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27516
Phone: 919-918-2777
www.carolinainn.com/CrossRoads.shtml
Winner (Durham)
Magnolia Grill
1002 Ninth Street
Durham, N.C. 27705
Phone: 919-286-3609
This bistro-styled restaurant specializes in American regional cuisine with a
distinctive southern inflection. A seasonally-guided menu changes daily and
utilizes fresh local ingredients whenever possible. Dinner entrees range from
$18 to $30.
Highly Recommended
Maggiano’s Little Italy
8030 Renaissance Parkway, Suite 890
Durham, N.C. 27713
Phone: 919-572-0070
www.maggianos.com
Winner (Raleigh)
Angus Barn
9401 Glenwood Ave.
Raleigh, N.C. 27617
Phone: 919-781-2444
www.angusbarn.com
One of North Carolina’s most storied restaurants, Angus Barn provides a
friendly, casualty elegant atmosphere for fine dining. A beefeater’s haven,
menu entrees include signature steaks as well as seafood, other meats, and
vegetarian dishes. Dinner entrees range from $25 to $35.
Highly Recommended
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
414 Glenwood Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27603
Phone: 919-833-2888
Wilmington Area
Winner
Verandah Café
1706 N. Lumina Ave.
Wrightsville Beach, N.C. 28480
Phone: 910-256-2231
www.wrightsville.sunspreeresorts.com
Casual elegance and culinary creations combine with spectacular ocean views from
every table in this restaurant, which is located in the Holiday Inn Sunspree
Resort. Friday and Saturday are Lobster Festival Nights, and Sunday features the
area’s most popular brunch buffet with live jazz and the magical wonders of
“Kiyan the Magician.” The average price of a dinner entrée is $19.
Highly Recommended (tie)
Elijah’s
2 Ann Street
Wilmington, N.C. 28401
Phone: 910-343-1448
www.elijahs.com
Primarily an American seafood grill, Elijah’s is located on the Cape Fear
River. Seafood, beef, poultry, pasta and wine are served to the beautiful view
of the waterfront. An eye-catching sunset can be enjoyed at any time of the
year. Entrees average around $18.
Port Land Grille
1908 Eastwood Road, Suite 111
Wilmington, N.C. 28403
Phone: 910-256-6056
www.portlandgrille.com
Fresh seafood is brought to Port Land Grille daily, giving diners a true taste
of the ocean. Other meats, deserts, wine and champagne compliment the full menu,
which changes slightly every day. Entrees range between $15 and $36.
Oceanic
703 S. Lumina Ave.
Wrightsville Beach, N.C. 28480
Phone: 910-256-5551
www.atlanticquest.biz/oceanic_restaurant.htm
A wide selection of fresh seafood, along with steaks, chicken and pasta make up
this menu. The panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean provides an enticing
addition. Dine inside on one of the three levels, or choose to eat outdoors on
the pier. Dinner entrees range from $7 to $26.
Best restaurants for a
business lunch
Charlotte Area
Winner (tie)
Mimosa Grill
327 S. Tryon Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
Phone: 704-343-0700
www.mimosagrill.com
Elegant dining is demonstrated perfectly in the atmosphere of the Mimosa Grill.
It is the perfect place to celebrate a special occasion or hold a business
meeting. Entrees average around $20.
Capital Grill
IJL Financial Center
201 N. Tryon Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
Phone: (704) 348-1400
Fax: (704) 348-4263
www.thecapitalgrille.com
A fine dining restaurant, the Capital Grille specializes in personalized service
in an elegant atmosphere. The menu consists of a variety of cuisines, including
dry aged steaks, seafood, desserts, and a variety of award-winning wines.
Highly Recommended
Frankie’s Italian Grille
800 East Moorehead Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
Phone: 704-358-8004
Greenville Area
Winner
Starlight Café
104 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive
Greenville, N.C. 27858
Phone: 252-707-9033
This eatery offers international fare such as the Cuban Press, Vietnamese Bunbo
and middle eastern Babaghannouy, as well as quiches, daily soups and salads.
Menu changes seasonally. Outdoor seating is available. The average price of a
lunch entree is $6.
Highly Recommended
Staccato Café and Grille
511 Red Banks Road #G
Greenville, N.C. 27858
Phone: 252-321-0064
Triad Area
Winner (Greensboro)
Lucky 32
1421 Westover Terrace
Greensboro, N.C. 27408
Phone: 336-370-0707
www.lucky32.com
The unique menu and décor offers a invigorating dining experience at Lucky 32.
Friendly service compliments the distinctive American flavors served in each
dish. Lunch entrees are $6 to $15.
Highly Recommended
Gate City Chop House
106 S. Holden Road
Greensboro, N.C. 27407
Phone: 336-294-9977
www.gatecitychophouse.com
Winner (Winston-Salem)
Bistro 420
420 West 4th Street
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101
Phone: 336-721-1336
www.bistro420.com
A fine dining restaurant, Bistro 420 combines French, American, Asian, and
Italian cuisines to please the tastes of anyone. The average lunch entrée is
$15.
Highly Recommended
Lucky 32
109 S. Stratford Road
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27104
Phone: 336-777-0032
www.lucky32.com
Triangle Area
Winner (Chapel Hill)
Carolina CrossRoads Restaurant
211 Pittsboro Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27516
Phone: 919-918-2777
www.carolinainn.com/CrossRoads.shtml
Southern traditions and New American cuisines come together to make the dining
experience truly memorable. Seasonal lunch entrees average between $6 and $9.
Highly Recommended
Il Palio Ristorante
1505 E. Franklin Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514
Phone: 919-918-2545
www.sienahotel.com/il_palio_restaurant.htm
Winner (Durham)
Pops
810 W. Peabody Street
Durham, N.C. 27701
Phone: 919-956-7677
www.pops.com
Italian trattoria featuring authentic cuisine with a Mediterranean flair. The
average cost for a lunch entrée is $9.
Highly Recommended
Maggiano’s Little Italy
8030 Renaissance Parkway, Suite 890
Durham, N.C. 27713
Phone: 919-572-0070
www.maggianos.com
Winner (Raleigh)
Caffé Luna
136 E. Hargett Street
Raleigh, N.C. 27601
Phone: (919) 832-6090
www.cafeluna.com
The reasonable prices at Caffé Luna do as much for the dining experience as the
formal décor. The entrees include upscale choices, covering many aspects of
Italian food, and range at lunch from $7 to $16.
Highly Recommended
42nd Street Oyster Bar
508 W. Jones Street
Raleigh, N.C. 27603
Phone: 919-831-2811
Wilmington Area
Winner
City Club
23 South 2nd Street
Wilmington, N.C. 28401
Phone: 910-343-1880
www.cityclubatderosset.com
This private dining club serves soups, salads and sandwiches at lunchtime. The
dinner menu offers extensive seafood selections, as well as chicken and beef
entrees. Lunch entrees are $7 to $11.
Highly Recommended
Oceanic
703 S. Lumina Avenue.
Wrightsville Beach, N.C. 28480
Phone: 910-256-5551
www.atlanticquest.biz/oceanic_restaurant.htm
Eddie Romanelli’s
5400 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, N.C. 28403
Phone: (910) 799-7000
www.atlanticquest.biz/romanelli.htm
Best restaurants when traveling
on business
Asheville Area
Winner
Inn on Biltmore
One Antler Road
Asheville, N.C. 28803
Phone: 828-225-1642
www.biltmore.com
Feast on regional cuisine featuring estate-raised beef, lamb, and trout while
enjoying exquisite views of the estate. The restaurant is not open to the
general public; you must either be a guest at the Inn or acquire a day pass.
Dinner entrees range from $27 to $37.
Highly Recommended
Horizons Restaurant
290 Macon Avenue
Asheville, N.C. 28804
Phone: 828-252-2711
www.groveparkinn.com
Charlotte Area
Winner
The Palm
6705-B Phillips Place Court
Charlotte, N.C. 28210
Phone: 704-552-7256
www.thepalm.com
The classic Palm atmosphere combines with Southern hospitality to cater to many
groups. The caricatures lining the walls make for an interesting people-watching
meal. The menu includes a variety of entrees from Italian cuisine to steak and
seafood. Dinner entrees average around $30.
Highly Recommended
Morton’s
227 W. Trade Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
Phone: 704-333-2602
www.mortons.com
Greenville Area
Winner
The Beef Barn
400 Saint Andrews Drive
Greenville, N.C. 27834
Phone: 252-756-1161
www.beefbarn.net
This casual fine dining restaurant offers steaks, pasta dishes, poultry, seafood
and an incredible wine list with more than 650 selections. Dinner entrees range
from $13 to $35.
Highly Recommended
City Hotel and Bistro
203 West Greenville Blvd.
Greenville, N.C. 27834
Phone: 252-355-8300
www.cityhotelandbistro.com
Triad Area
Winner (Greensboro)
Grandover Resort
One Thousand Club Road
Greensboro, N.C. 27407
Phone: 336-294-1800
www.grandoverresort.com
No matter what the mood or taste, Grandover has it.From elegant dining to
casual, each restaurant offers an exciting view of the golf course. Average
dinner entrée at the Di Valletta is $24.
Highly Recommended
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse
800 Green Valley Road, Suite 100
Greensboro, N.C. 27408
Phone: 336-574-1515
www.ruthschris.com
Winner (Winston-Salem)
Village Tavern (2 locations)
221 Reynolda Village
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27106
Phone: 336-748-0221
or 2000 Griffith Road
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27103
Phone: 336-760-8686
www.villagetavern.com
Enjoy hand cut steaks, fish, poultry, unique salads, pastas and pizza along with
an award winning wine list. Dinner entrees range from $8 to $24.
Highly Recommended
Twin City Chop House
115 South Main Street
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101
Phone: 336-748-8600
www.twinc
Triangle Area
Winner (Chapel Hill)
Il Palio Ristorante
1505 E. Franklin Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514
Phone: 919-918-2545
www.sienahotel.com/il_palio_restaurant.htm
Luxurious décor makes the dining experience complete at this Italian restaurant
located at the Sienna Hotel. The average dinner entrée is between $20 and $25.
Highly Recommended
Carolina CrossRoads Restaurant
211 Pittsboro Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27516
Phone: 919-918-2777
www.carolinainn.com/CrossRoads.shtml
Winner (Durham)
Magnolia Grill
1002 Ninth Street
Durham, N.C. 27705
Phone: 919-286-3609
This bistro-styled restaurant specializes in American regional cuisine with a
distinctive southern inflection. Its seasonally-guided menu changes daily and
utilizes fresh local ingredients when possible. Dinner entrees range from $18 to
$30.
Highly Recommended
Maggiano’s Little Italy
8030 Renaissance Parkway, Suite 890
Durham, N.C. 27713
Phone: 919-572-0070
www.maggianos.com
Winner (Raleigh)
Michael Dean’s Seafood Grill,
Wood Oven and Bar
1705 E. Millbrook Road
Raleigh, N.C. 27609
Phone: 919-790-9992
www.michaeldeans.com
Fresh seafood prepared in a wood-burning oven is the specialty at Michael
Dean’s. The menu is seasonal and changes monthly, making the dining experience
different, exciting, and good. Entrees range between $20 and $25.
Highly Recommended
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
414 Glenwood Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27603
Phone: 919-833-2888
Outer Banks Area
Winner
The Left Bank
1461 Duck Road
Kitty Hawk, N.C. 27949
Phone: 252-261-8419
www.thesanderling.com
The Left Bank is located within the Sanderling Resort. The restaurant specialize
in French inspired cuisine and offer fabulous views of the Currituck Sound. A
three-course prix fixe menu is $55 and a five-course prix fixe menu is $75.
Wilmington Area
Winner
Verandah Café
1706 N. Lumina Avenue
Wrightsville Beach, N.C. 28480
Phone: 910-256-2231
www.wrightsville.sunspreeresorts.com
Casual elegance and culinary creations combine with spectacular ocean views from
every table. Outdoor terrace dining is available year round. Sundays feature the
area’s most popular brunch buffet with live jazz and the magical wonders of “Kiyan the
Magician.” The average dinner entrée is $19.
Highly Recommended
Port Land Grille
1908 Eastwood Road, Suite 111
Wilmington, N.C. 28403
Phone: 910-256-6056
www.portlandgrille.com
Best
restaurants to take the staff
Charlotte Area
Winner (tie)
Rock Bottom
401 N. Tryon St
Charlotte, N.C. 28202
Phone: 704-334-2739
www.gordonbiersch.com
Rock Bottom is a brew/pub that serves steaks, fish, pastas, pizzas, salads and
sandwiches. Outdoor seating is available on the patio or in the courtyard.
Dinner entrees range from $9 to $20.
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
1928 South Blvd., Suite.200
Charlotte, N.C. 28203
Phone: 704-335-8228
This high energy 1940’s Chicago-style steakhouse and bar provides live jazz
each night as well as its famous martinis. Dinner entrees range in price from
$17 to $50.
Highly Recommended
PF Chang’s
Phillips Place
6809-F Phillips Place Court
Charlotte, N.C. 28210
Phone: 704-552-6644
www.pfchangs.com
Southend Brewery and Smokehouse
2100 South Blvd.
Charlotte, N.C. 28203
Phone: 704-358-4677
www.southendbrewery.com
Greenville Area
Winner
Staccato Café & Grille
511 Red Banks Road #G
Greenville, N.C. 27858
Phone: 252-321-0064
The Staccato Café and Grille provides casual dining and a variety of menu
choices from sandwiches and pasta dishes to bayou shrimp and grits and filet
mignon. Dinner entrees are $13 to $19.
Highly Recommended
Chico’s
521 Cotanche Street
Greenville, N.C. 27835
Phone: 252-757-1666
www.chicosrestaurant.com
The Beef Barn
400 Saint Andrews Drive
Greenville, N.C. 27834
Phone: 252-756-1161
www.beefbarn.net
Triad Area
Winner (Greensboro)
Arigato Japanese Steakhouse
1200 S. Holden Road
Greensboro, N.C. 27407
Phone: 336-299-1003
www.arigatos.net
Enjoy the show as skilled chefs prepare your dinner on the teppanyaki tables in
front of you. Dishes include poultry, seafood, beef and vegetables. The
adjoining sushi bar also serves sashimi and Japanese tapas dishes. Dinner
entrees range between $10 and $29.
Highly Recommended
Revival Grill
604 Milner Drive
Greensboro, N.C. 27410
Phone: 336-297-0950
Winner (Winston-Salem)
Lucky 32
109 S. Stratford Road
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27104
Phone: 336-777-0032
www.lucky32.com
The unique menu and décor offers a unique dining experience at Lucky 32.
Friendly service compliments the distinctive American flavors served in each
entrée. Dinner entrees are $10 to $23.
Highly Recommended
Bistro 420
420 West 4th Street
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101
Phone: 336-721-1336
www.bistro420.com
Triangle Area
Winner (Chapel Hill)
Top of the Hill
100 E. Franklin Street, Third Floor
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514
Phone: 919-929-8676
www.topofthehillrestaurant.com
Enjoy live music every Thursday night at this restaurant and brewery. All tastes
are covered in the variety of entrees, from chicken to seafood to salads.
Average entrée price is $15.
Highly Recommended
Il Palio Ristorante
1505 East Franklin Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514
Phone: 919-918-2545
www.sienahotel.com/il_palio_restaurant.htm
Winner (Durham)
Francesca’s Dessert Caffe
706-B 9th Street
Durham, N.C. 27705
Phone: 919-286-4177
www.francescas.citysearch.com
Francesca’s offers a delightful assortment of cakes, pies, cookies, gelotos
and sorbettos served with your choice of coffees, teas, lattes, cappuccinos and
mochas. A dessert lover’s dream!
Highly Recommended
Kanki
3504 Mt. Moriah Road
Durham, N.C. 27707
Phone: 919-401-6908
www.kanki.com
Winner (Raleigh)
42nd Street Oyster Bar
508 W. Jones Street
Raleigh, N.C. 27603
Phone: 919-831-2811
With a wide selection of seafood and beer, 42nd Street is the place to go.
Entertainment livens up the dining experience several nights a week, while
business meetings and outings take place on other nights. Dinner entrees range
from $12 to $22.
Highly Recommended
Caffé Luna
136 E. Hargett Street
Raleigh, N.C. 27601
Phone: 919-832-6090
www.cafeluna.com
Wilmington Area
Winner (tie)
Elijah’s
2 Ann Street
Wilmington, N.C. 28401
Phone: 910-343-1448
www.elijahs.com
Primarily an American seafood grill, Elijah’s is located on the Cape Fear
River. Seafood, beef, poultry, pasta and wine are served to the beautiful view
of the waterfront. An eye-catching sunset can be enjoyed at any time of the
year. Entrees average around $18.
Eddie Romanelli’s
5400 Oleander Drive
Wilmington, N.C. 28403
Phone: 910-799-7000
www.atlanticquest.biz/romanelli.htm
Pasta, pork chops, pizza, and steak make up only part of the menu, and the
architecture and interior design of the building make the casual atmosphere even
more enjoyable. Dinner entrees average around $15.
Highly Recommended
Dockside Restaurant
1308 Airlie Road
Wilmington, N.C. 28403
Phone: 910-256-2752
Best
restaurants when the boss is buying
Asheville Area
Winner
Horizons Restaurant
290 Macon Avenue
Asheville, N.C. 28804
Phone: 828-252-2711
www.groveparkinn.com
Horizons Restaurant at the historic Grove Park Inn provides an elegant fine
dining experience featuring innovative classic cuisine, an excellent wine list,
nightly entertainment and breathtaking views. Complete dinners range from $65 to
$79.
Highly Recommended
The Market Place Restaurant
20 Wall Street
Asheville, N.C. 28801
Phone: 828-252-4162
www.themarketplace-restaurant.com
Richmond Hill
87 Richmond Hill Drive
Asheville, N.C. 28806
Phone: 888-742-4536
www.richmondhillinn.com
Charlotte Area
Winner
The Palm
6705-B Phillips Place Court
Charlotte, N.C. 28210
Phone: 704-552-7256
www.thepalm.com
Nationally renowned, The Palm combines its classic atmosphere with Southern
hospitality to cater to a variety of groups. The caricatures lining the walls
make for an interesting people-watching meal. The price of an average dinner
entrée is $30.
Highly Recommended
McIntosh’s Steak House
1812 South Blvd.
Charlotte, N.C. 28203
Phone: 704-342-1088
www.mcintoshs1.com
Greenville Area
Winner
City Hotel and Bistro
203 W. Greenville Blvd.
Greenville, N.C. 27834
Phone: 252-355-8300
www.cityhotelandbistro.com
Perfect for the corporate traveler, this hotel and bistro provides a cozy
atmosphere and offers a buffet breakfast. For dinner, enjoy black angus steaks
prepared in a hickory-wood grill. Dinner entrees range from $7 to $20.
Highly Recommended
The Beef Barn
400 Saint Andrews Drive
Greenville, N.C. 27834
Phone: 252-756-1161
www.beefbarn.net
Triad Area
Winner (Greensboro)
Bert’s Seafood Grill
2419 Spring Garden Street
Greensboro, N.C. 27403
Phone: 336-854-2314
www.bertsseafood.com
This eatery prepares fresh, non-fried seafood for the discriminating palate.
Pasta and beef dishes are also available, as well as homemade soups, chowders
and desserts. Entrée prices range from $12 to $24.
Highly Recommended
Gate City Chop House
106 S. Holden Road
Greensboro, N.C. 27407
Phone: 336-294-9977
www.gatecitychophouse.com
Winner (Winston-Salem)
Twin City Chop House
115 S. Main Street
Winston-Salem, N.C. 27101
Phone: 336-748-8600
www.twincitychophouse.com
High quality beef, fresh seafood, veal, lam, and pork are some of the entrees
that can be found. The best food available is served with friendly service, with
the average price of an entrée $25.
Triangle Area
Winner (Chapel Hill)
Il Palio Ristorante
1505 E. Franklin Street
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514
Phone: 919-918-2545
www.sienahotel.com/il_palio_restaurant.htm
Luxurious décor makes the dining experience complete at this Italian restaurant
located at the Sienna Hotel. Il Palio provides an absolute experience in fine
dining, complete with a relaxed and elegant atmosphere and excellent service.
The average dinner entrée is between $20 and $25.
Highly Recommended
Brixx Pizza
501 Meadowmont Village Circle
Chapel Hill, N.C. 27514
Phone: 919-929-1942
www.brixxpizza.com
Winner (Durham)
Magnolia Grill
1002 Ninth Street
Durham, N.C. 27705
Phone: 919-286-3609
This bistro-styled restaurant specializes in American regional cuisine with a
distinctive southern inflection. Its seasonally-guided menu changes daily and
utilizes fresh local ingredients when possible. Dinner entrees range from $18 to
$30.
Highly Recommended
Nana’s
2514 University Drive
Durham, N.C. 27707
Phone: 919-493-8545
www.nanas.citysearch.com
Winner (Raleigh)
Angus Barn
9401 Glenwood Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27617
Phone: 919-781-2444
www.angusbarn.com
Known for its steaks, Angus Barn provides a friendly, casualty elegant
atmosphere for fine dining. Menu entrees also include seafood, other meats and
vegetarian dishes. Average entrees range from $25 to $35.
Highly Recommended
Sullivan’s Steakhouse
414 Glenwood Avenue
Raleigh, N.C. 27603
Phone: 919-833-2888
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