You know you’re getting chicken and waffles at Dame’s in Durham and you know you’re going to need a nap after.

You’ll find as many opinions on the best hot dogs in Raleigh as you will people - but our favorites are the perfectly crispy ones from Roast Grill.

Crawford and Sons in Raleigh is the right balance of fancy and cool, with high-end Southern food and a funky interior.

Garland in Raleigh mixes Southern influences with Indian dishes - you could spend a whole night between the club and music venue above and below.

Poole’s Diner is more upscale than most classic diners you’ve been to, head here for a date when you want to eat creative food in a dark space.

For one of the best egg sandwiches - and plenty of Southern staples - grab breakfast at Neal’s Deli in Carrboro.