
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern
An elegant American restaurant and tavern in a historic 1879 mansion, renowned for fine dining and impeccable service.

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Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An elegant American restaurant and tavern in a historic 1879 mansion, renowned for fine dining and impeccable service.
"Experience an unforgettable evening with exquisite cuisine and impeccable service in a beautiful historic setting."
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for special occasions or date nights.
Try the Chocolate Soufflé
This decadent dessert is a must-have, praised by reviewers as a standout.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
American
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Mansion Ambiance
Dine in a beautiful, circa-1879 Second Empire house, offering an elegant and historic atmosphere.

Exquisite Cuisine and Presentation
Experience meticulously prepared food with surprising flavor combinations and fantastic presentation.

World-Class Wine Selection
Complement your meal with an extensive and eclectic wine list, featuring world-class selections.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for special occasions or date nights.
Try the Chocolate Soufflé
This decadent dessert is a must-have, praised by reviewers as a standout.
Ask for Recommendations
Knowledgeable servers can guide you to the perfect dish and wine pairing.
Weekday Visits
Opt for a weekday visit for a potentially quieter and more intimate dining experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ahead
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for special occasions or date nights.
Try the Chocolate Soufflé
This decadent dessert is a must-have, praised by reviewers as a standout.
Ask for Recommendations
Knowledgeable servers can guide you to the perfect dish and wine pairing.
Weekday Visits
Opt for a weekday visit for a potentially quieter and more intimate dining experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is highly praised for its exquisite food, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance set within a historic mansion. Diners frequently celebrate special occasions here, noting the attentive staff and unique touches like signed menus. While most reviews are glowing, some find the complex flavors slightly overwhelming, though still delicious.
"So impressed! A friend recommended sitting downstairs since it’s the same menu and we loved it. Amazing service from Chris who also told us all about the history of the restaurant / building.
I had the potato soup and the filet (both from the specials menu) - phenomenal. Really enjoyed the cocktails too. Plus, they gave me a menu with a personal happy birthday message printed on! Would recommend to anyone."
Alex Shaw
"The service was impeccable. Waiter was very knowledgeable about the menu and the history of the restaurant.
Ambiance is on the fancier side with white table cloths and an emphasis on fine dining. The menu is varied with each dish being very complex with lots of flavors going on at once, borderline overly so. However, they are all in balance so everything still tasted good.
I will note that seafood Paella was more of a jambalaya with Latin flavor profiles. But was still tasty.
Definitely worth going at least once to experience the ambiance and the chef’s menu."
Michelle Labdon
"Best fine dining restaurant in Raleigh! My husband took me here to celebrate my birthday. The food was exquisite and the ambience was amazing. They even gave me a signed menu by the chef as a birthday gift. Truly loved the whole experience. Highly recommend it!"
Disha Victor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for special occasions or date nights, as it is a popular dining spot.
The restaurant offers an elegant, upscale, white-tablecloth dining experience within a beautiful, historic circa-1879 mansion.
While the menu changes, standouts frequently mentioned include the chocolate soufflé, rack of lamb, and various seafood dishes.
Yes, the attentive service caters to dietary restrictions, ensuring a comfortable dining experience.
Yes, the restaurant also features a more casual tavern area downstairs, which offers the same menu.
The restaurant boasts a world-class and eclectic wine list, with knowledgeable staff to assist with pairings.
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Offering one of the best dining experiences in the city, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern serves exquisite dishes in an elegant environment. They believe no meal is complete without a quality wine, so they offer a world-class selection. The menu – including dishes such as the Juniper & Rosemary Pan-Roasted Georgia Quail and the Sautéed Carolina Shrimp & Roasted Duck Leg Meat – and excellent customer service have won the restaurant the AAA Four Diamond Award, Dirona Award, and Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.
The 25 Best Restaurants in Raleigh in 2022
**You know you’re embedded into the heart of a city when it builds around you. Situated in the historic Dodd-Hinsdale house a la 1879 in the quickly growing up (literally) Capital District, this stately and elegant, well, empire is a local fave for the ages for a reason. Opened by Ted Reynolds and now celebrating its 25th year on the scene at the trusty hands of power duo Kim Reynolds (Ted’s daughter) and executive chef Daniel Schurr, the award-winning longtime special-occasion sup spot stands tall among its neighboring towers as a mainstay for its pristine service, fab fare and unparalleled white-tablecloth dining experience.
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If you have a special occasion coming up soon, look no further than the award-winning restaurant, Second Empire Restaurant, for an incredible dining experience (not to be confused with the Second Empire Tavern, the bar next door). They’re consistently ranked one of the best restaurants in Raleigh for fine dining, and are the recipient of the AAA Four Diamond Award – it’ i’s the perfect place to eat if you want to experience some regality with your food. It’s an elegant American restaurant set in a historic, circa-1879 Second Empire house that speaks to the original character of the city.
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Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern—one of the most romantic restaurants in the City of Oaks—resides in the restored Dodd-Hinsdale House (circa 1879) on Hillsborough St. in downtown Raleigh. With its classical elegance, friendly staff, world-class wine and critically-acclaimed cuisine, Second Empire beckons guests to an unforgettable evening celebrating birthdays, anniversaries and other milestones. At the Chef's Table, executive chef Daniel Schurr and his staff will give you a first-hand look at the techniques used to create the evening's exclusive menu.
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Located on Hillsborough St. in downtown Raleigh, Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern may be your next go-to spot for special occasions, including Valentine's Day dinner. It offers impeccable service, top-notch cuisine, and an elegant atmosphere. First courses include selections such as the Black Angus Striploin Tartare or a lighter option such as the Empire Winter salad, a delectable combination of roasted Brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, butternut squash, spinach, walnuts, feta cheese topped with maple orange vinaigrette.
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If you're looking for an exquisite dinner experience, look no further than the Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern. This AAA Four Diamond Award-winning restaurant is located in historic downtown Raleigh and offers a unique blend of contemporary and traditional Southern cuisine. The menu is constantly changing to reflect the seasonality of ingredients, but some signature dishes include pan-seared scallops with bacon and sweet potato puree, slow-roasted pork rack with blackberry gastrique, and Carolina shrimp and grits.
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Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern comes in at the top of the list today for a couple of reasons. But first is the location, located in downtown Raleigh’s historic Victorian Dodd-Hinsdale House (from 1879), Second Empire combines the weight of history, with an upscale menu and etiquette to create an atmosphere that makes for an unforgettable dining experience. So if you are really looking to impress that date of yours, this is one of the best romantic restaurants to take them to in Raleigh, North Carolina.
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For a more upscale experience, Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern in a restored Victorian house on Hillsborough Street provides an elegant setting with a menu featuring contemporary American cuisine. Enjoy dishes like seared duck breast or braised short ribs, paired with an extensive wine list, for a truly memorable dining experience. The impeccable service and refined ambiance make Second Empire an ideal choice for a special night out.
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At the enchanting Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern, nestled in the heart of Raleigh, every visit is a culinary journey through elegance and flavor. As you step into one of Raleigh’s cool places to eat, a blend of rich history and modern charm greets you, setting the stage for an unforgettable Thanksgiving feast. The ambiance exudes romance, with soft lighting and ornate decor enhancing the intimate dining experience.
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For couples seeking a dining experience steeped in history and elegance, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern offers a truly unique setting. Housed in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House, a stunning example of Victorian architecture dating back to 1879, this restaurant provides a romantic backdrop that’s hard to match. As you approach Second Empire, you’re immediately struck by the grandeur of the building.
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Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is a fine dining establishment located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Housed in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House, this restaurant offers a classic dining experience with an atmosphere of classical history and elegance. While it may not be a traditional street food establishment, Second Empire is known for its exquisite cuisine and world-class wine selection.
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If you're looking to dine in an elegant ambiance, visit Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern [3] for a taste of their delectable menu. The atmosphere is a combination elegance and classical history since the restaurant was built in a Second Empire house circa 1879. You'll get to treat your senses to their extensive collection of world-class wines, served with the best food Raleigh has to offer.
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Located in downtown Raleigh is the historic Dodd Hinsdale House, which was built in 1879. This historic Victorian-style home has been converted into a prestigious restaurant and bar and is often used as a venue for weddings and other events. You can tour this house to learn about its history and how it has evolved into the elegant dining establishment it is today.
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Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern, located in a restored Second Empire-style house dating back to 1879, marries history with culinary excellence. This establishment offers two distinct dining experiences: the American restaurant's elegance and the casual tavern's relaxed ambiance. Both settings promise an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Raleigh.
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For an unforgettable and romantic proposal, book a table at Second Empire, located in Raleigh’s elegantly restored 1879 Dodd-Hinsdale House. With its intimate ambience, gourmet cuisine, and ornate historic décor, popping the question after an exquisite meal in one of North Carolina’s most awarded restaurants will make for a truly memorable and special occasion.
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A post shared by Second Empire Restaurant (@second_empire_restaurant). Second Empire is a place where one can enjoy a questionably scrumptious meal in a setting that whispers of history and elegance. They serve up contemporary American cuisine, which is a fancy way of saying they take delicious, fresh ingredients and turn them into culinary masterpieces.
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Second Empire is where Raleighites have gone to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays and special occasions for decades. Based in the historic Dodd-Hinsdale House in downtown, Second Empire is one of the city's premier white-tablecloth experiences, with superb servers and a tried-and-trusted Australian rack of lamb. Location: 330 Hillsborough St., Raleigh
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Cuisine: American Contemporary Address: 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC Housed in a Victorian-style mansion, Second Empire combines fine dining with a historic setting. The restaurant offers an extensive wine list and seasonal menus, ensuring a unique dining experience each visit. Signature Dish: Filet Mignon with truffle butter Price Range: High
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One of the top fancy restaurants in Raleigh, Second Empire is made for special celebrations. Located in the middle of downtown Raleigh, Second Empire is housed in the restored historic Dodd-Hinsdale House. Since 1998, it has won many awards, including the AAA Four Diamond Award, the DiRoNa Award, and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellent.
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If your partner appreciates fine dining, the Second Empire is an excellent choice for a proposal. This elegant restaurant, set in a restored 19th-century mansion, offers a romantic ambiance that's perfect for a special occasion. Savor an exquisite meal prepared by award-winning chefs before you present your engagement ring.
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- Rating: 4.5 / 5 (1,003 reviews)- Detailed ratings: Food (4.5/5), Service (5.0/5), Value (4.5/5), Atmosphere (4.5/5)- Type of cuisine: American- Price: $$$$- Address: 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603-1726- Read more on Tripadvisor. You may also like:Highest-rated Southern restaurants in Raleigh by diners
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Located in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House in downtown Raleigh, Second Empire creates a dining experience that combines and atmosphere of classical history and elegance with a selection of cuisine that is as exquisitely unique as it is delicious. Phone Number: (919) 829-3663 Directions Website
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Located inside a historic late 19th-century home downtown, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is the ultimate special occasion restaurant. The contemporary American menu has French and Southern influences, including the crispy "Pepsi-Cola" pork belly served with a savory herb crêpe and smoked trout.
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This cultural experience will set the mood for dinner at Second Empire Restaurant And Tavern. The decor in the circa-1879 building is as striking as the menu at this elegant restaurant led by Chef Daniel Schurr. Finish the night strong with craft cocktails made with mezcal at Gallo Pelón Mezcaleria.
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Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern - Raleigh, North Carolina. Says OpenTable: “Located in downtown Raleigh’s historic Victorian Dodd-Hinsdale House (circa 1879), Second Empire combines history, atmosphere, exceptional service and gourmet cuisine for an unforgettable dining experience.
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Yelp 4 ½ stars, 186 reviews Listen up, guys: This is the spot to spend an anniversary. The food is not only delicious, but the restaurant offers a special menu for couples that are celebrating. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are the basis for food prepared by award-winning culinary chef.
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Built in 1997 with an aura of classical elegance, Second Empire takes you back to the Victorian Era. It’s set in a carefully restored house – the Dodd Hinsdale House. Prior to eating, you can choose to take a tour of the place to see what it was like in the prime of its time.
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Located in a restored 19th-century house, Second Empire’s elegant gourmet food, ambiance, and history provide for an unforgettable dining experience. Personal suggestions include the Roasted Colorado Rosemary Lamb Loin Chop, the Foie Gras, or the Black Angus Ribeye.
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Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern, housed in a historic downtown mansion, is a lovely place to have a memorable date. It's also the kind of date spot you can get dressed up. Their tables are covered with white tablecloths and they have excellent service.
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Second Empire is known for its fine-dining fare, beautiful setting, and polished service (and prices to match). Seek out the grilled Black Angus filet, paired with Southern accents like country-style collards, fennel rutabaga slaw, and hominy ragout.
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For a very elegant evening (and massive date points), dress up for an incredible dining experience at Second Empire. My personal suggestions are the Black Angus Ribeye, the Foie Gras, or the Roasted Colorado Rosemary Lamb Loin Chop, mon amie.
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Second Empire Restaurant And Tavern is located in Raleigh, NC. Imagine a dining experience that combines an atmosphere of classical history and elegance with a selection of cuisine that is as exquisitely unique as it is delicious.
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Located in the restored Dodd-Hinsdale House that dates to around 1879, dining at Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern is ideal if you’re looking for elegant birthday ideas in Raleigh.
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It's a converted 1800s historic home in Raleigh, and it just has so much charm. The scene is pressed white tablecloths and premium-level service. Great for a special occasion.
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330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603Phone: 919-829-3663 Visit Website. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by Second Empire Restaurant (@second_empire_restaurant)
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Opened in 1997 in a Victorian mansion, this fine dining spot combines Southern charm with white-table- cloth treatment. 330 Hillsborough St | Second Empire
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EDIT 2: Herons, Fearrington Village & Second Empire are gonna be my big 3. Herons wine list is very appealing. Wish me luck everyone!
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Pineapple Upside Down Cake from Second Empire in Raleigh, N.C : Ok, this dessert goes back 14 years at least.
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