Erica Chats: Special Occasion Spots

I’d love to say that my family has mastered our goal of meal prepping and eating all our meals at home. But honestly? Life is busy, and I can’t resist the deliciousness scattered throughout the Triangle. This is why friends and family always ask me where they should eat for every occasion. So, where do we go to celebrate when life calls for something special?

It’s tradition to visit Angus Barn. I don’t just love it for the fantastic food; it’s the people, too. Owner Van Eure and the team work tirelessly to make every customer feel valued and love giving back to the community. You can dress to impress or just come as you are. Though it’s a nationally recognized steakhouse, I always go for the three-cheese ravioli with white sauce — hands down my favorite. Reservations can be tough to snag because it gets busy. You can book online 120 days in advance. Pro tip: The Wild Turkey Lounge opens at 3 or 4, depending on the time of year, and is available on a first-come, first-served basis, so drop by for an early dinner. Ask your server about a special tour where the kids can grab a scoop of ice cream with sprinkles.

For an elevated girls’ brunch, RH Rooftop in North Hills is perfect. Capture gorgeous group pics and enjoy some shopping afterward. The restaurant sits atop a 60,000-square-foot design gallery with stunning home décor. You can even book a table online for their fantastic weekend brunch menu. Their burger is always a fan favorite! Remember to register your car for the onsite parking.

Planning a bridal luncheon or a larger group gathering? Birdie’s Barroom & Kitchen is your spot. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offer custom menu packages for daytime events. Their Blue Ridge Room can host groups up to 24, and the Veranda Patio is a fenced-in outdoor area that’s just beautiful. If you’re a shrimp and grits lover, this is the spot. And I’m obsessed with their pull-apart bread in a cast iron skillet — yes, please!

Always grab a pic with the lobby flowers when stopping by the Umstead Bar & Lounge.

Need a pregaming spot before a concert? Swing by the Bar & Lounge at the Umstead, a short drive from Lenovo Center. No reservations required — grab a bar seat or a table for dinner. They often have live music, and it’s always busy. I’ve enjoyed lunch with friends there, showing up at 11 a.m. to secure a table. On nice days, grab an outdoor seat and snap a pic with the fresh flowers in the lobby.

Craving a “homemade meal” but don’t feel like cooking? The Butcher’s Market offers a great selection of ready-made meals you can order online or just stop in. With several Triangle locations, some options might vary by spot. Grab some kabobs for the grill or a complete meal that’s ready to heat and serve. If you’re heading to a friend’s event, swing by on the way for some spinach and artichoke dip or chicken salad.

For a spot that wows with ambience, check out La Terrazza in Raleigh. On the ninth floor of The Dillon mixed-use development, it offers a southern Italian and Mediterranean menu with indoor and outdoor dining. The skyline views are amazing, making it a prime date-night location. We’ve hosted client events there too, as it’s perfect for showing off your city. And the newly renovated outdoor bar is breathtaking!

Burger cravings present a tough challenge because there are just so many great spots around the Triangle. For our family, The Cowfish tops the list. You really can’t go wrong with their menu. Plus, the kids love being entertained by the fish tank or playing out front. They now offer reservations, which is a huge plus. And if you’re in the mood for a salad, they’re big enough to share!

Amedeo’s Italian — family friendly with history

If you’re a pizza lover like us, don’t forget about Amedeo’s Italian restaurant. Sometimes overlooked because it’s been around forever, this spot is a Wolfpack fan’s paradise, serving authentic dishes since 1963. The founder, Amedeo (Dick) DeAngelis, was a former NC State football player. The pizza is fantastic, and it’s a family-friendly spot that makes you feel like you’re truly part of history when you visit.

The Triangle is now a thriving foodie community, with new spots popping up everywhere. I could keep making recommendations (Doc B’s guacamole is the best I’ve ever had!) but I have to stop somewhere. Happy eating!

Where’s your favorite spot to celebrate in the Triangle? Let me know.

@EricaDeLong