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If you’re searching for a top-notch restaurant, you may not have to travel far.
That’s because Raleigh is home to one of the nation’s best fine dining destinations, a new report finds.
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Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern ranks No. 12 on a list of the “most exceptional restaurants where culinary mastery and unforgettable experiences define every meal,” according to results published Tuesday, Sept. 15.
Travel review website Tripadvisor said it created the list after studying feedback that people left online for restaurants across the country. It focused on several factors, including ratings and reviews from the first half of the year.
“The Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel,” Tripadvisor wrote in its report. “It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.”
Second Empire has won the fine-dining award at least two years in a row. The fan-favorite restaurant serves customers from a restored Victorian-era home located at 330 Hillsborough St. in downtown Raleigh, according to Tripadvisor and previous reporting from The News & Observer.
“True to its name, Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern leans into an elegant, historical vibe,” Tripadvisor wrote in its report. “And it has the seasonal dishes to match — think duck breast and scallops — all beautifully plated and presented. The staff knows the menu front to back and can walk you through the solid wine list, too. Don’t skip cocktails or dessert that bookend the experience.”
The restaurant has been serving customers for nearly three decades. Throughout the years, fans have taken to Tripadvisor to rave about the customer service and ambiance, calling it a special place for date nights, anniversary celebrations and other occasions.
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Though Second Empire was the only fine dining restaurant honored in the Triangle, another place in North Carolina received acclaim. Ristorante Paoletti, located in the mountain town of Highlands, ranks No. 1 on the list.
“When you’re looking for the crème-de-la-crème, these are the places worth getting on the waitlist for. Think: white tablecloths, best-in-class chefs, and unforgettable bites,” Tripadvisor wrote as it shared the list of winners.
Second Empire joins other Raleigh dining destinations that have earned spots on best-of lists.
Recently, Songbird cafe and cocktail bar ranked among the nation’s “hottest” new restaurants. And Big Cat — which serves dishes with Indian, Mediterranean and Mexican flair — was named a top place to eat, The N&O previously reported.
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