Savoring Fayetteville: 12 Must-Try Restaurants

By Kelly McMurtry

Exploring Fayetteville's culinary scene is like embarking on a flavorful adventure through the city's vibrant neighborhoods. Here are 12 spots that capture the essence of Fayetteville.

1. Circa 1800

Located downtown, Circa 1800 offers a menu that celebrates local ingredients. Their weekend brunch, featuring a build-your-own Bloody Mary bar, is a personal favorite.

Luigi's Italian Chophouse and Bar Fayetteville

2. Luigi’s Italian Chophouse

A Fayetteville staple since 1950, Luigi’s serves homemade spaghetti and dry-aged steaks. The extensive wine list complements the cozy ambiance, making it perfect for date nights.

3. Napkins

Located just outside the Dirtbag Ales taproom, Napkins offers a menu that changes daily, featuring locally sourced ingredients. Their Tostados and tots are personal favorites.

Guatemala Centro American Restaurant Fayetteville

4. Guatemala Centro America Restaurant

Guatemala Centro America Restaurant is a family-run establishment that offers a unique blend of Guatemalan, El Salvadorian, and Honduran cuisines. The homemade tortillas and pupusas are must-tries.

Antonella's Italian Ristorante Fayetteville

5. Antonella’s

Antonella’s Italian Ristorante is a family-owned spot that brings a slice of Italy to Fayetteville with authentic dishes and a warm atmosphere. Their pasta selections are particularly noteworthy.

6. Gohan Bistro

Tucked away on Reilly Road, Gohan Bistro serves some of the best ramen in Fayetteville. Their poke and sushi offerings are also top-notch.

7. Mash House Brewery & Restaurant

Known for craft-brewed beers and quality steaks, Mash House uses local ingredients and butchers in-house, ensuring freshness in every bite.

8. Rockin’ Rolls Sushi

Serving quality sushi and Japanese cuisine with the freshest ingredients, Rockin’ Rolls Sushi presents dishes in a lively space that regularly feels like a party.

316 Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill Fayetteville

9. 316 Oyster Bar

For surf and turf lovers, 316 Oyster Bar offers fresh oysters, a variety of seafood dishes, and some well-slathered barbecue ribs in a lively setting adorned with neon signs.

KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot - Fayetteville NC

10. KPOT

An all-you-can-eat restaurant combining traditional Asian hot pot with Korean BBQ flavors, KPOT offers a unique-to-Fayetteville dining experience.

11. Grilled Ginger

Offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine, Grilled Ginger is a hidden gem. Their pho and spring rolls are a delightful introduction to Southeast Asian flavors.

12. Noble Meats

Between the two access points for Carvers Creek State Park, Noble Meats is a butcher and restaurant serving the community since 1987. Their sandwiches are hearty and flavorful and their steaks are well sourced.

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