Out and About

Best romantic restaurants in Raleigh

With Valentine's Day just a few days away, we decided to compile a list of our favorite date restaurants in Raleigh.

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RALEIGH, N.C. — Earlier this week, we ranked our favorite romantic spots to dine in Durham. Now, it is Raleigh's turn. 
We have ranked our favorite date/romantic restaurants in the Triangle before. A few years ago, our friends in the newsroom, including David Crabtree, Bill Leslie and Renee Chou, gave us a list of their favorites. 

Here's our 2014 list for the best date restaurants in Raleigh: 

18 Seaboard - This contemporary American grill near Peace College is a favorite of Ken Smith, David Crabtree, Bill Leslie and Elizabeth Gardner. A great atmosphere described by Renee Chou as "trendy without being intimidating" combined with their amazing food make it a great date night selection. We are also a fan of their commitment to local ingredients. 
Margaux's - Located off of Creedmoor Road, Margaux's is the type of place where people tend to linger. It could be the decor – a mix of pieces from local artists that rotates every two to three months – or the rich cuisine – a blend of French, Southern and Asian. Their menu changes daily and they have a tasty three course Valentine's weekend menu ($49.95 per person) that includes oysters on the half shell and grilled black grouper. 
Angus Barn - This has become a go-to place for birthdays, holidays and anniversaries in my household. I especially love it around Christmas because of their decorations. A great intimate environment with outstanding service. Love their complimentary cheese and yogurt crackers, and don't even get me started on their award-winning Chess pie. (Order it warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!) Known for their top-notch steaks, I also recommend their ribs. You will need a take-home box. 
Second Empire - Located in a restored 19th century house, this restaurant was another popular pick in the newsroom. "I’ve never seen more gorgeous presentations of food. Service is stellar," Renee Chou said. David Crabtree called it one of his favorite places not only in Raleigh but anywhere! 
This last spot is a tie: 
Poole's Downtown Diner - Ashley Christensen's retro-chic diner, located near the Raleigh Amphitheatre, has great drinks, fresh cuisine and some of the best mac and cheese we've ever had. (And you know how much the Out and About team loves their mac and cheese.) Just make sure to get here early or expect a wait. They don't take reservations. 
Hayes Barton Cafe - This WWII-era themed cafe is known for its dessert case - their slices of cake are huge! But this is also a great place to share a romantic dinner and enjoy some home-cooked food. We love the meatloaf! Get here early or expect a wait. There is limited seating and they don't take reservations. 
We couldn't possibly name every place that we love. Please tell us your favorite places by clicking the comments bubble to the right.

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