New Restaurants Bring Big Numbers to the Triangle Dining Scene

Maggiano's Little Italy is set to enter the Raleigh market, taking over the former Brio Italian Grille location at Crabtree Valley Mall. This expansion will make it the second Maggiano's in the Research Triangle area. The chain, known for large family-style portions, has not yet announced a specific opening date.

The region also received fresh recognition from the Michelin Guide American South. Three local establishments earned new Bib Gourmand designations at a ceremony held in Nashville. These include Ajja in Raleigh, Ideal's in Durham, and Tesoro in Carrboro. Tesoro operates as an 18-seat pasta-focused restaurant. Prime Barbecue, Mala Pata, and Sam Jones BBQ retained their previous Bib Gourmand status. Sixteen other spots, including Brewery Bhavana and Poole's, kept their Michelin recommended listings.

Millie's Homemade Ice Cream plans to open its first North Carolina location at 325 Blake St. in City Market. The Pittsburgh-based franchise targets a launch before the end of the year. It will sit next to Blackbird Books and Coffee. In the same city, South Block is preparing to open a shop at 4121 Main at North Hills St. The acai and smoothie chain currently has three locations in Charlotte. No opening date has been set for the Raleigh site.

Other new entries include Grain & Berry, which opened in Apex at 2017 Creekside Landing Drive. This marks the second North Carolina location for the brand. Winston's Grille in Raleigh is also marking a milestone, celebrating its 40th anniversary. The restaurant was founded in 1986 by Wil O'Neal and Charles Winston Jr.

Durham will see the opening of M Kikkei at 101 E. Chapel Hill St. The restaurant, which serves Nikkei cuisine, will hold an invitation-only soft opening on October 24. Its grand opening is scheduled for October 29. This concept is the seventh in the "Mpire" group. In Pittsboro, Tavolo Italian Eatery has opened in MOSAIC at Chatham Park. Gandy Coffee House is expected to open in early 2027 inside the historic Captain J. F. Alston House.

The region also saw a permanent closure. Sushioki in Research Triangle Park has shut its doors after eight years of operation. The restaurant scene continues to shift with these additions and subtractions.

Upcoming events include the inaugural Chapel Hill Biscuit Festival on October 25. The event at American Legion Post 6 will benefit SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals. The Rawleigh Oyster Fest is set for November 7 at Raleigh Iron Works. Organizers added a $60 Half Shell ticket after feedback regarding pricing. The previous two editions sold out and raised about $12,500 combined.