Mouthwatering North Carolina Restaurants That Deserve a Michelin Star

The Michelin Guide is known for inspecting and reviewing restaurants around the world, and diners know when they step into a Michelin-rated establishment, they’re in for a treat.

However, Michelin has only rated restaurants in a handful of American cities, and none are in North Carolina. That doesn’t mean there aren’t any restaurants worth a Michelin Star, though.

We took to Yelp to find the restaurants that diners enjoy the most, from Asheville to Raleigh. These restaurants fit the bill for a Michelin Star if the reviews and star ratings are to be believed. Michelin inspectors look at a number of criteria when doling out their reviews, from consistency across multiple visits to ingenuity in the kitchen.

Here are five North Carolina restaurants that could win a coveted Michelin Star. (If you like Italian food, here’s the best Italian restaurant in every state .)

Stanbury — Raleigh

Stanbury bills itself as “caring, playful and uncomplicated,” and judging by the hundreds of 4- and 5-star ratings it has garnered on Yelp, diners agree. The menu changes with the seasons, as happens at restaurants prioritizing local sourcing.

This downtown Raleigh restaurant doesn’t take reservations and accepts walk-ins only, so you might find yourself waiting to be seated — but it will be worth it.

The kitchen here offers small plates, large plates, and desserts that aren’t to be missed. Among current (Autumn) offerings are peace fattoush, cavatelli, swordfish, striped bass, fried oysters (pictured), and ribeye.

Kindred — Davidson

Kindred in Davidson, just north of Charlotte, is one of those places you’ll never forget. From the vibrant atmosphere to the stylish interior, Joe and Katy Kindred have created something truly special.

Kindred’s menu changes with the seasons, but one thing you can always count on is their famous soft milk bread (pictured), and it’s a hit with Yelpers.

Some sample menu items include wagyu beef tartare with black mustard and fingerling potatoes; squid ink conchiglie with Georgia royal red shrimp, sea urchin butter, and terragon; and flounder milanese with sauce gribiche, green garlic, rhubarb, and tarragon oil.

Cúrate — Asheville

Cúrate Bar De Tapas has racked up thousands of 4- and 5-star reviews on Yelp, and it’s easy to see why. This vibrant restaurant located inside a renovated bus depot serves tapas influenced by traditional Spanish cuisine.

Cúrate won the James Beard Award for Outstanding Hospitality in 2022 and was recognized by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in 2018 as one of America’s Top 50 Wine Restaurants, so you’re in for a fantastic experience.

Their extravagant (and affordable) menu holds small and large plates, with traditional Spanish tapas offerings. They also offer “the Spanish experience,” at $70 per person, a hand-crafted menu featuring traditional Catalan dishes.

Epic Chophouse — 3 locations

Epic Chophouse has two locations in North Carolina (Mooresville and Greensboro) and a fourth on its way (Raleigh). They’re also located in Fort Mill, South Carolina. With that many locations, this steakhouse is a must.

Epic’s menu holds something for everyone, from date nights to family nights. Starters include wagyu meatballs, bacon-wrapped scallops Rockefeller, and Chophouse cheese toast. For entrees, choose from a variety of steaks and meats, including baby back ribs, steak Wellington, short ribs, and staples such as ribeyes, wagyu steaks, and rack of lamb. Chicken, pasta, and seafood is also on the list.

The menu also includes mouthwatering side dishes, such as truffle fries with romano, bleu cheese cole slaw, and Carolina stone ground grits. Be sure to check out the drinks menu, as well.

McNinch House Restaurant — Charlotte

McNinch House Restaurant is housed in the former Victorian-era home of Mayor Sam McNinch. This extravagant restaurant has been around for over 30 years, winning the AAA Four Diamond Award.

McNinch House features four different menus: the Premier Four Course Menu, the Five Course Grand Menu, the Chef’s Tasting Menu, and the Chef’s Table. If you want to experience the best of McNinch House, the Chef’s Table is your best bet. (Note that it does require a party of at least four and seven days’ notice.)

Main courses to delight in include filet mignon, pan-seared wild-caught coho salmon, rohan duck breast (pictured), pan-seared red snapper, and NY strip. All are served with seasonal, locally sourced vegetables. (Here’s a look at 21 things you should never order in a restaurant .)

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