8 Unique Dining Experiences to Try in Wake Forest This Year

Wake Forest is a charming community in North Carolina brimming with history, culture, and delicious eateries. The downtown area is an excellent place to enjoy a meal with your loved ones. From sinfully good sweets to melt-in-your-mouth dishes, Wake Forest offers something for every palette. With so many great options at your disposal, your only challenge is deciding which restaurant to enjoy for your next meal. To help you out, we’ve created a list of the eight best restaurants in Wake Forest to try this year.

214 S White St, Wake Forest, NC 27587

Known as a Wake Forest staple since 1916, Shorty’s Famous Hot Dogs has been a go-to hangout for locals for over 100 years. Run by the same family that originally opened it, Shorty’s is the longest-running restaurant in the entire area. The restaurant prides itself on fresh ingredients, and everything is grilled to perfection. Menu favorites here include the Jesse Jones “Red” hot dog, Shorty’s “Big One” burger, and the meatloaf burger. Head over to Shorty’s to truly taste history.

419 S Brooks St Wake Forest, NC 27587

Serving up award-winning burgers and sandwiches, Over the Falls is a family-oriented restaurant in the heart of Wake Forest. Located in a cozy corner of town, this restaurant boasts a warm and welcoming ambiance that is easy to fall in love with. Kids will enjoy coloring on paper tablecloths, while parents will love the attentive staff. The restaurant’s tableside tic-tac-toe games are great ways for families with young children to have fun while waiting for their orders. Diners with gluten allergies will be delighted to know the restaurant offers plenty of gluten-free options on the menu. Over the Falls is a local gem that’s definitely worth a visit.

3309 Rogers Rd Ste 245, Wake Forest, NC 27587-3943

Shuckers Oyster Bar & Grill is an iconic Wake Forest restaurant popular with the locals, and for a good reason. Shuckers has something for everyone, from seafood and steak to salads and wraps. Menu favorites here include chargrilled oysters, Jack Daniel’s honey-glazed salmon, and honey-chipotle shrimp tacos. The menu also includes 34 gluten-free options.

203 Wait Ave, Wake Forest, NC 27587

Based on reviews alone, The Burger Shop is one of the best restaurants in Wake Forest for burgers, hand-cut fries, and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Located in a small corner shop that was known as The Barber Shop for over 50 years, The Burger Shop has quickly transformed itself into the premiere classic burger joint it is today. Striving to serve a delicious burger at a decent price, this restaurant prides itself on fresh ingredients and handmade dishes. While the menu is small and simple, each item on it exudes big flavors. Whether you’re looking for a classic burger or refreshing lemonade, you can’t go wrong at The Burger Shop.

1248 S Main St, Wake Forest, NC 27587

Looking for traditional Italian food in Wake Forest? Look no further than Amalia’s Authentic Italian Restaurant. This restaurant has been open for just a few short years; however, it has quickly become the choice spot for Italian cuisine in the city. Perfect for romantic date nights and celebrations, the restaurant offers an upscale dining experience that will leave a lasting impression. From classic dishes such as risotto and bolognese to an incredible selection of wine, your taste buds are sure to come alive at Amalia’s.

12235 Capital Blvd Wake Forest, NC 275876200

With two locations in Wake Forest, one on Capital and one on Heritage, Charlie’s Kabob Grill is the ultimate go-to spot for Mediterranean fare in the city. Favorites here include their famous gyros, which range from steak to chicken, and Habibi platter. Top your meal off with freshly made Baklava for dessert.

110 S White St Wake Forest, NC 27587

Bodega Tapas & Wine dishes up a variety of small plates inspired by cuisines from around the globe. Tapas here include seared tuna, Peruvian chicken, and North Carolina goat cheese dip. Sample one of their plates for a heartier offering, such as their grilled salmon or NC wagyu ragout rigatoni. Bodega also boasts a wide selection of wine and rum to pair with your food, great for date nights. If you’re looking for one of the best restaurants in Wake Forest, look no further than Bodega Tapas & Wine.

960 Gateway Commons Cir, Wake Forest, NC 27587-6594

Part of the community since 2014, Farm Table is a locally-owned restaurant dishing up a variety of healthy and vegetarian-friendly meals. Dining at Farm Table unlocks the door to some truly unique dishes you won’t find elsewhere. Sourcing their ingredients from local farmers and growers, Farm Table expertly crafts dishes made from in-season fruits and vegetables. Fan favorites here include short rib tacos, bacon mac and cheese, and citrus crab cakes.

Wake Forest has many restaurants and eateries that will satisfy your taste buds. From authentic Italian food to healthy vegetarian options, the community offers something for everyone. The list of the best restaurants in Wake Forest above provides just a taste of what the city has to offer. If you’re looking for more places to eat, contacting a local real estate agent is a good start.

Wake Forest is widely considered one of the best places to live in North Carolina. Because of its central location, job opportunities, top-rated schools, and vast culinary offerings, the Wake Forest housing market is highly competitive, and buyers and sellers who wish to navigate the market should do so with a skilled real estate professional at their side.

If you’re looking to purchase or sell Wake Forest real estate, contact Courtney Whalen. Courtney is a Wake Forest real estate agent that has helped numerous clients find the home of their dreams and sell their properties for top dollar. Her knowledge of the local market has helped her secure lucrative deals for her clients. Get in touch with Courtney today to see what it’s like to work with a top Wake Forest real estate agent!