Plan Your Year of Dining: 12 Must-Try North Carolina Restaurants

Dining out in North Carolina is an easy way to relax, unwind, and reconnect with friends and family. No matter what your food preferences are, delicious options abound here in the Tar Heel State.

Whether you find yourself craving BBQ, steaks, Mexican, or other special tastes, the following 12 bucket-list restaurants in North Carolina will satisfy your every whim. Add each to your dining bucket list and check them off as you go throughout the year!

1. January: The German Cafe - Wilmington

Head to The German Cafe in Wilmington at the top of the year for a warm, filling dinner. The Cafe is located along the waterfront and is the perfect cozy spot for a cold January day. Enjoy authentic dishes, from schnitzel to wurst and sauerkraut, and take in the eatery's fascinating history as a former cotton factory. It's open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday and Friday for dinner.

2. February: Saxapahaw General Store - Graham

Saxapahaw General Store in Graham is part general store, part restaurant, serving classic American fare for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Pop by for a juicy burger made from local grass-fed beef, or canned goods and delicacies from within the storefront. It's one of the best food shops in North Carolina—it even has a gas station! Hours are 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

3. March: Snappy Lunch - Mount Airy

Snappy Lunch is one of North Carolina's oldest diners, and it's always worth the stop when you're in the Mt. Airy area. The memorabilia and decor of this nostalgic diner will take you down memory lane. Speaking of: You can explore other sights attributed to hometown celebrity Andy Griffith while you're in town! Snappy Lunch is open Monday to Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.

4. April: Yoder's Dutch Pantry - Grifton

You'll find Mennonite food at its best at Yoder's Dutch Pantry in Grifton. The most delectable cinnamon rolls and baked goods are sold here, along with a breakfast menu and a variety of canned and specialty goods. If you love comforting, authentic Amish and Mennonite cooking, a trip here is a must. Yoder's is open Monday to Thursday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Friday and Saturday until 1 p.m.

5. May: Gravy Southern Eatery - Calabash

There's nothing quite like Southern comfort food, and Gravy Southern Eatery in Calabash knows it. The iconic barn-style restaurant hosts events and gatherings throughout the year, but it's most known for its meaty, bone-in pork chops, fried crab cakes, and classic Southern sides. It's truly a must-visit restaurant in North Carolina. Hours are Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Friday until 8 p.m.

6. June: Amos Mosquito's Restaurant & Bar - Atlantic Beach

June is the perfect month to take a trip to Atlantic Beach on the coast. Explore the dunes and shoreline of the stunning Atlantic Ocean, and then head to Amos Mosquito's Restaurant & Bar for a delicious waterfront meal. You'll find all sorts of seafood like fresh oysters, shrimp, and grilled mahi, along with other classic bar fare. It's open Tuesday to Saturday, from 4:45 p.m. to 8:40 p.m.

7. July: B's Barbecue - Greenville

This wouldn't be a bucket list restaurant roundup without an iconic barbecue joint. B's Barbecue in Greenville may look like a hole in the wall, but the flavors of its carefully smoked brisket, tender pulled pork, and snappy sausage are simply outstanding. It's undeniably some of the best BBQ in the state. Get there early because they sell out quickly. Hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (and 1 p.m. on Thursday).

8. August: Angus Barn - Raleigh

Calling all carnivores—The Angus Barn is one of the most notable steakhouses in the Tar Heel State. It's a casual, come-as-you-are spot where everyone feels welcome. Check out the ginormous prime rib you can get at this iconic spot. Or, plan your next gathering or event with the restaurant staff. It's the perfect backdrop for the final days of summertime. Hours are Monday to Friday, 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.

10. September: Mert's Heart and Soul - Charlotte

Mert's Heart & Soul in Charlotte serves up soul food unlike anything else. From fried chicken to collard greens, shrimp and grits, and more, this place is nationally loved—it was even featured on The Food Network for its flavors and eclectic charm. While chowing down on your meal, take stock of the kitschy art and trinkets around the dining area. Mert's is open Monday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Friday, Saturday, and Sunday until 9 p.m.

10. October: Taco Billy - Asheville

Take an autumn detour through the charming mountain town of Asheville and stop by Taco Billy for amazing Mexican food. Enjoy fresh, flavorful tacos from its extensive menu while taking in the colorful design of the restaurant. This place may be tiny, but it's not lacking in character or deliciousness. Even the portions are generous! Hours are Tuesday to Saturday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday until 3 p.m.

11. November: Merritt's - Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill is loaded with wonderful restaurants, but you'll be missing out if you don't stop in to Merritt's Grill for one of its enormous BLTs. It's the perfect meal for game day (which you can watch while there!) or any day, really. Some other menu standouts are the pimento cheese sandwich, the Merritt's burger, and the Carolina dog. Merritt's is open Monday to Friday, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday until 5 p.m.

12. December: Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant - Boone

In December, warm up with a cozy, family-style meal at Dan'l Boone Inn Restaurant. Beyond the bountiful holiday decorations that adorn the inn's exterior and dining area, the plates are also piled high with classics like country ham biscuits, fried chicken and gravy, slices of cake, and more. It's a charming experience you won't soon forget. Hours are Monday to Friday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Which of these North Carolina eateries are you adding to your dining bucket list? If you're already dreaming up your road trips, day trips, or weekend getaways to experience dining in the Tar Heel State, use Only In Your State's itinerary planner for nearby lodging and sightseeing opportunities.