North Carolina is a foodie paradise. You’ll find inventive, unique, and locally-sourced restaurants in Asheville, fine dining at the top of a mountain, and amazing eateries located in unassuming small towns along the coast. Nearly everywhere in North Carolina is home to a few amazing restaurants. But with so many to choose from, how does one even choose? Well, this list of the 24 best local restaurants in North Carolina is great places to start, and they’re guaranteed to give you that once-in-a-lifetime experience.

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What did you think of our list of some of the best local restaurants in North Carolina? Did your favorite make the cut? Tell us in the comments!

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best local restaurants in north carolina

What's the most famous restaurant in North Carolina?

As you might have gathered from our list outlining some of the best local restaurants in North Carolina, the Tar Heel State has no shortage of delicious dining options. If you're curious to try one of the most famous restaurants in North Carolina, you'll want to head to the Dining Room at the Biltmore Estate. Of course, the Biltmore Estate itself is one of the most-visited attractions in North Carolina, and the Dining Room is no different. If you're looking for an excuse to dress up and pretend you're living like a Vanderbilt, a trip to the Dining Room at the Biltmore Estate might do just the trick. Many of the menu items feature locally-grown ingredients, some of which come right from the Biltmore Gardens.

Where can I eat in North Carolina that only the locals know about?

If you're looking for the best restaurants in North Carolina that fly under the radar, it's a good idea to try a place off-the-beaten-path. One such example is Hillbilly Hideaway, a lovable restaurant that only the locals know about. It's a classic roadside restaurant that specializes in home-cooking. Since 1977, Hillbilly Hideaway has been serving up classic American fare, such as fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and green beans. When you visit, be sure to bring your appetite with you, as the portions are known to be quite generous! For more information about Hillbilly Hideaway, read our previous article.

Where can I find the best pizza in North Carolina?

North Carolina is positively brimming with delicious local pizza restaurants you'll want to try. From classic Italian to wood-fired and New York-style, there's simply no shortage of delicious pizza here in the Tar Heel State. If you're looking for the best pizza in North Carolina, start with any of the following spots: Pizzeria Omaggio in Charlotte, Randy's Pizza in Raleigh, Inizio Pizza Napoletana in Charlotte, Pure Pizza in Charlotte, Pizzeria Toro in Durham, Asheville Pizza & Brewing Co., Benny's Pennello's in Charlotte, Lost Province Brewing Co. in Boone, Lisa's Pizzeria in Rodanthe, Sergio's Pizza in Raleigh, and Amici Pizza in Charlotte.