SmokeStack Cafe (Historic Oakwood - Raleigh) My wife and I chose SmokeStack Cafe for our anniversary lunch, and it turned out to be an excellent choice. After 40 years of marriage, we've learned that a memorable lunch is often better than an expensive dinner. We enjoyed it so much that we decided to write our reviews the same day. Lunch for two came to about $45 plus tax and tip, and included: * Bánh Mì * Shrimp Tacos * House Lemonade * Key Lime Pie Location & Atmosphere [[HIGHLIGHT]]SmokeStack Cafe is located in Raleigh's historic Oakwood neighborhood in a beautifully restored former grocery store. The setting is full of charm, both inside and out.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]There is outdoor seating available, but we chose to sit indoors where the space is open, comfortable, and inviting.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Parking is street parking only. On our Juneteenth lunch visit, finding a space was easy, though I suspect many neighborhood residents simply walk over. The Food The Bánh Mì was outstanding. The bread was a true French baguette, fresh, crisp, and clearly high quality. The sandwich was generously filled with flavorful pork, more than we have received at most places serving bánh mì. It came with a large portion of well-seasoned French fries. The Shrimp Tacos featured three tacos on corn tortillas. The shrimp portion was generous, and the accompanying sauce added plenty of flavor without overwhelming the seafood. The House Lemonade was tart, refreshing, and exactly what I wanted on a warm afternoon. For dessert, we shared a slice of house-made Key Lime Pie. It was a generous serving with a bright, tangy lime flavor and a graham cracker crust that had a subtle hint of cinnamon. A wonderful finish to the meal. Service Service was warm, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout our visit. In a fun personal touch, our server told us he had made the key lime pie himself Overall What impressed me most was how diverse and eclectic the menu is. The food felt thoughtful and well executed, the setting was charming, and the service was first-rate. SmokeStack Cafe delivered exactly the kind of memorable lunch we hoped for on our anniversary, and we're already looking forward to coming back and exploring more of the menu. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Shrimp Tacos - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Smokestacks was such a pleasant find! Tucked away in a neighborhood. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The exterior completely threw us off from the magic we were about to experience inside.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] We called ahead to see if they were busy and get an idea of their wait times as we needed to have a quick lunch. Upon arrival, the very friendly server status quickly and made sure to get our order and as quick as possible. The menu looked interesting and fun, but we were both blown away when our food came. Everything made to order, freshly cooked. Deep built-up flavors, the kind of cooking that takes hours to prepare. You could feel the love that went into this food. We will absolutely be back We shared a braised beef sandwich and an oxtail soup. I'm salivating writing this review, I can't give it enough praises. You must try it. So excited to go back and try the rest of the menu.. This place is a foodie dream! read more

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Smokestacks is a locally owned restaurant tucked away in the Oakwwood Neighborhood. The menu changes almost everyday and you will always fond something good to eat. The staff is very friendly and the service is great. This time we tried the seared scallops along with their chicken wings and fries. The scallops were seared perfectly and had a great flavor. You can pick from a variety of flavors of chicken wings. We got the buffalo garlic and the hot honey mustard. Both flavors were really good. My favorite was the garlic buffalo. Definitely worth checking it out and support a local business. [[HIGHLIGHT]]It does get busy on the weekends.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

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We didn't dine in so that's the lack of star because I can't comment on that type of service, BUT the little bit interaction we had at the front of the restaurant was the lady being very kind to us as we ordered there for the first time!! [[HIGHLIGHT]]The outside of the place blends in with the neighborhood it's located at and has such a cute feel to it.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Now the food.... When I tell you I've never seen my brother so happy with a steak egg sandwich before! Every bite he had to say how good it was!! We also got some gluten free wings that they allowed us to split into two sauce so we could try more flavors was great! THE BEST THING WAS THE HOMEMADE TREATS FOUND UP FRONT!! I could not stop dreaming about this place and recommended it to the family and friends that are with us on this trip. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - 10/10 - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Great food and even better service! Highly recommend the fries, menu changes everyday . My whole party enjoyed the food and we were making plans to return read more

Wow amazing find in Raleigh! The service was great from the moment we walked in, the food was amazing! We went on a Thursday and it ended up being burger night which I failed to get a picture of but it was great, the fries were the best fries I've had at a restaurant! The squash blossoms however were my favorite! They had drink specials and classics. [[HIGHLIGHT]]We sat outside on the patio and brought our little pup which was great![[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] [[HIGHLIGHT]]They had a large fan going to keep you cool and bugs away[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Squash blossoms - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Drove in from almost an hour away due to the great reviews. Plenty of street parking. Incredibly friendly staff and the food was amazing. It was well worth the drive. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Very relaxed atmosphere as we chose to sit outside.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The food came out in a timely manner and the flavors were amazing. I think this moves to the top of our list in Raleigh. read more

- Fantastic food and worth the wait! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Came in on a Friday afternoon and sat outside -- everything was excellent.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] I had the egg rolls, Caesar salad, and pork sandwich. The egg rolls were massively large and delicious. The Caesar salad was spot on, and I loved the capers adding that salty kick. The pork sandwich was amazing -- great flavor and perfectly melted cheese. French fries were legit too. Everything was easily a 5 out of 5. The food takes a few extra minutes since it's made to order, but that's exactly why it tastes so fresh and well done. Definitely recommend and will be coming back! read more

SomeStacks Cafe is a hidden gem. My husband and I dined here for lunch and really enjoyed it. We started off with an order of the hand-cut fries then it was the pot roast with a beer for me and one of the benedicts and a cocktail for my husband. I wanted the sangria for my next drink but got a pour of red wine but that was okay. This spot is a must visit. read more

Hidden gem, limited tables, outstanding food. Don't pass on the cabbage, it over delivers on all levels. Pot pie is beautiful, cocktails are complex and what you want in your life. Will be a stable, I hope it continues to be what it is now. read more

Both the food and service were outstanding. I highly recommend the French Toast, Shrimp & Grits, and Steak Bites. Each dish was bursting with flavor, and every bite was cooked to perfection. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - French Toast - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Update because I feel like these need to be highlighted- the cocktails!!! I have tried many of the different cocktail offerings here and they are also phenomenal! Some of the best drinks I've had in the area and unique flavor creations! And if there's a margarita special, get it! You will not be disappointed. read more

If you don't live in this Oakwood area near downtown, I recommend using a gps to find it as it's an old building in the middle of a charming neighborhood. Or just look for Oakwood Cemetery. Very close. Plenty of street parking. Small building, but they do have indoor and outdoor seating, and service is always terrific. Thankfully they live up to their name, as smoke flavor can be found in many ways. Four of us went for Sunday brunch. Started off by sharing the most delicious little deviled eggs that were pickled, with a dusting of curry. Brilliant! Three of the four of us had the pork hash that comes with poached eggs and hollandaise. Husband chose scrambled eggs on his instead. No one could come close to finishing this rich dish. It's very meaty...lots of pork and sausage over potatoes. Meanwhile I was enjoying the heck out of the most amazing smoked chicken and dumplings. These are not the usual southern ones that are like a thick stew. This version was actually a creamy soup, with chunks of smoked chicken and a few delicate dumplings. Chicken pieces were a bit dry, but the outstanding flavor made up for it. Drinks were good. Great bloody mary, decent moscow mules and really good coffee. Only disappointment for me was the killer looking apple cinnamon donut had an unusual texture and very little flavor. read more

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We wanted to go out for a low key 27th anniversary, so we came and minds blown. The food was amazing, Ashleigh was our waitress and was so knowledgeable and helpful in our decision process. My wife and I split a beet "caprese" which was delicious, for Dinner I got the steak Frites. The steak had an A1 aoli and it was on the fries too. I could not keep my family out of my Fries they were amazing! My son got the ribs and they were so rich and flavorful. My wife got the Coq au Vin which had a richness from cooking method different than traditional and delicious. This will definitely be a place We will be back regularly. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Steak Frites - perfectly cooked with the fries of a lifetime - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

SmokeStacks Cafe serves up the best burger in Raleigh, hands down. I made it a point to return during my trip just to grab another burger and fries. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The small, local vibe of the restaurant is charming, and the staff is super accommodating.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] They even let me place a to-go order before the kitchen opened, which saved me time. It's the kind of place you go out of your way to visit! read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Burger and Fries - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

First things first DO NOT let the outside and location deter you! Second.... F-R-E-S-H!!! Everything is fresh, and the menu changes daily! They have a couple staples that are always on the menu so check there website before you go! We shared the César salad, wings, hand cut fries and braised beef tacos! Please go see the photos cause my descriptions are not going to do it justice. This place is being run by a brother/sister duo sister is running the front of the house and is the pastry chef while brother is the chef! So ignore the negative reviews about wait times... good food is worth the wait! OMG I JUST BIT INTO THE PEACH AND BLUEBERRY TART I GOT TO GO WHILE WRITING THIS... AMEN! Just go people... just go! read more

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You have to take a double take from the exterior entrance. Very misleading... I was like is this really the place my friends told me to meet them at? Lol! [[HIGHLIGHT]]Has some great "old" charm, food is excellent and the service was probably the best Ive had since pre-covid.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] The menu is new daily. Never know what you might find. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe is a hidden gem in the Oakwood Neighborhood. It was once Quality Grocery but is now a small restaurant. They left the logo on the side of the restaurant. The restaurant is on the small side with about seven tables inside and more tables outside on the heated patio. The large menu changes daily and some of the dishes are creative with items you wouldn't think to put together but once you try it, it does work well. On my last visit, I went with the steak and eggs. The portion was huge when it came out and I had to take some for another meal. I also ordered sweet potato and goat cheese empanadas to go as that combination sounded yummy. I couldn't resist the brownie either. I highly recommend SmokeStacks Cafe. read more

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Tried this at Dreamville and though the prices at the Dreamville booths were atrocious, I'm assuming it was due to booth fees or something. They also gave me pulled pork instead of the brisket I requested but all was forgiven because that pulled pork was something else. This was also my first time having BBQ in the south so I'm not sure if this is typical southern pulled pork - the skin was still attached and crispy, and the meat was smoky (in color and flavor) all the way through. Mac was nothing too crazy but solid. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Great food with an always changing menu. The staples are also delicious. Sunday drink specials are great

Yum! Feel like I got to try a little bit of everything on my first trip to SmokeStacks and every single dish was absolutely delicious. I hear the menu changes often but I really enjoyed my fried fish with goat cheese grits. So yummy! Oh and their cocktails great too! I can't quite remember the name of my drink but it was their lavender drink and I would go back just for that alone. But their food is good too and service was top notch. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Not a fancy place but if you're a foodie, this is a must try.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

Hands down, our new favorite Sunday Brunch spot!! Set in a charming little house in a residential neighborhood, SmokeStacks is like being invited to brunch at a friend's house. They don't take reservations, so we showed up about 10min before they opened, and I'm so glad we did. Apparently those "in the know" know the first seating fills up quickly, so I you don't get in at opening, you'll likely have to wait a bit for a table to open up. The atmosphere is cozy and comfortable, kind of Country Living meets shabby chic. The ambience is surprisingly quiet, even once they filled up. We were surprised we could carry on a quiet conversation even with all the tables full. I ordered Cassoulet, a rich casserole of white beans and sausage, topped with two duck leg quarters. It was savory and delicious, and even though the portion didn't seem huge, there was plenty to fill me up and still take half of it home for a second meal. My girlfriend had the chilaquiles, which was beautifully presented on a huge platter. She was very happy with her choice. I had a cocktail, which was delicious, well prepared, and reasonably priced. She had a $3 mimosa special and loved it...you can't really beat a $3 mimosa!! The staff was also delightful and made the whole experience simply perfect. We left full, happy, and excited to return. Like I said, new favorite spot. Sunday morning can't get here fast enough... read more

OMG. Ok let's start with the chili. That is no ordinary chili. The layers of flavor were phenomenal. We fought over it. I was a little mad that the okra didn't come with aioli or comeback dressing. Well obviously that is because you don't need it. It needs nothing to hide or accentuate the flavors. And the grilled chicken and mushrooms, delicious. The bun was like eating a yeast roll. So soft but strong enough to maintain the sandwich which was substantial. The hand cut fries are so tasty, not at all Oily. We don't live in town and I know their menu rotates daily. I will be sad to not be able to repeat these dishes when we come back to town but I am excited to taste their latest creations. This chef knows how to wield those spices!!!! read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Chili, fried okra and Philly chicken... - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

It's a little hole in the wall in an old house but the food and specialty drinks are amazing, they change up the menu every day so every time there's something new to try but for that reason I'm not able to offer amy suggestions because it probably won't be on the menu but the empanadas were delicious staff was nice and [[HIGHLIGHT]]the atmosphere is casual[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

[[HIGHLIGHT]]It's a cute little house in the neighborhood turned Restaurant.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] You're gonna think you're GPS is steered you wrong by trust it. It's very right this hidden gym boast a brand new menu every day with fresh localized foods as well. We went after church for a bite right before the Super Bowl and they had drink specials for the teams playing the trench were delicious And the breakfast was phenomenal. You're not going to know what the menu is until you show up that day, but I promise you you will be pleased, and the staff is extremely attentive. read more

Quaint little spot nestled in the heart of beautiful Oakwood residences. This place is a neighborhood gem with a daily rotating menu of delicious choices. My brunch was so good, I seriously considered coming back each day of my visit to Raleigh. The outdoor patio is a delightful way to spend a mealtime and if you happen to come on $3 mimosa Sunday you can pick from a wide range of juice mixers. Great experience! read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Pork belly, apple, marscapone, Dutch baby... delicious - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Food is delicious as always, the changing menu keeps things fresh and interesting. The service is always great. And we always seem to show up at just the right time. This place doesn't miss the mark. Every. Single. Time. (At least for me) If you are an adventurous foodie, I highly recommend this place. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Chicken and Grits - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Absolutely delicious food and our waiter was such a nice person. The atmosphere is nothing special and more of a little hole in the wall, but don't let that fool you. They weren't very busy when we went but seemed understaffed, as service was VERY slow and we weren't greeted when we arrived and had to stand around a bit before WE were the ones that said hello and asked about a table. Despite the service issues, I recommend as the food is definitely worth a visit. We found parking on the street right across from the restaurant and the bathroom was clean and tidy. read more

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Good Steak, Friendly Service The steak I ordered was tender and flavorful, and it came out exactly how I requested. The service was friendly and attentive. [[HIGHLIGHT]]The only downside was that the restaurant was a bit noisy, but otherwise, it was a great experience.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] read more

My favorite restaurant in North Carolina! We were only in Raleigh for 5 days and went twice. Service is perfect, so friendly and efficient! I'd come back just for how great the service was! First day we sat outside, I loved the Halloween decor touches. You can tell they love Halloween! I felt like I was dining in an outdoor haunted house which was so cool for a night out. We got the smash burger special, very tasty!! It had a beer cheese on it, yum. We both got that. The hand cut fries were great. But, the wings are amazing. Smoked AND fried with a delicious dry rub. They were big and juice and frankly outstanding. The next night we went we sat inside, which is like cafe vibes. We went for lunch and had the same kind of wings and had some habanero marmalade to dip in. Loved it. We also had the St. Louis ribs which were so flavorful. I wanted everything on the menu and the menu is changing day to day and I think that's exciting. I LOVE THIS PLACE! Also, Ben was our server and he's great! All the staff we encountered there were so friendly and welcoming. It's in an old fashioned grocery store that's been converted to a grocery store and located right near a historic cemetery which was so nice to walk through. Next time we book a flight out there we will be sure to be back!! read more

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This place was amazing. [[HIGHLIGHT]]So unassuming from the outside, looks like maybe a corner shop.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] But once inside and seated you're greeted with amazing hospitality and some of the best food I've ever had. read more

Love this neighborhood restaurant! It's located relatively close to downtown and five points and appears to be a converted house now restaurant. Parking is easy. There's options for indoor and outdoor seating (heat lamps available). The menu changes daily so check out their IG to stay up to date of what they are offering each day. So far I've been a few times and the food and service is excellent and consistent. Each time, I went for a seafood option and the plates were very flavor and generous. The staff are attentive and strive to meet every need. Pro tip: have someone in your party get there early to put your name on the list. Every time I've visited, I've had to wait 20-40 minutes. I think it's just due to the size and capacity of the restaurant. Don't let this deter you from visiting. It is worth the wait!! read more

Great wings; excellent service. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Nice to have this friendly spot in our neighborhood.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Sometimes they don't have items that are on their menus. read more

Great restaurant. Everything we ordered was excellent. If you are in Raleigh this is definitely a good place to check out. The wings were delicious! read more

We had the best time here! Highly recommend, the food was fantastic and its so cool that they change the menu daily! Ashley was fantastic too! read more

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I can honestly say my meal at Smokestacks was top 5 I've ever had. I vow to return to this place each time I visit the triangle in North Carolina, it's that good. We sat on their patio which has some Halloween themes going on, very inviting and amazing. For food we got the chef's rib rub on the signature wings. These wings were some of the best I've ever had, perfectly cooked and the seasoning on the rub was outstanding, we even asked for a side of the Habanero Marmalade to dip in, definitely has a spicy kick to it but the flavors again, on point. For our entrees my wife and I got the Thursday burger special which entailed two smashed burger patties, house made beer cheese and a slaw, some hand cut fries and a draft beer. Burger was AMAZING. Tender, juicy meat and the Patties were nice and crisp on the outside. Shout out to our server he knew what to recommend and was wonderful all night making sure we were attended to and happy with our selections. This place is a must visit if you're in the area, seek this place out! read more

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This is a diamond in the rough, in a residential area. [[HIGHLIGHT]]Adorable outdoor patio.[[ENDHIGHLIGHT]] Daily changing homemade menu=fresh! Albiet, too salty. Friendly and knowledable service. A delighful first visit! read more

First time was last night. I say first time because we will be regulars now. the menu changes daily, but you will not be disappointed with anything! We started off with an order of their amazing French fries - PERFECTION!! Hot, crispy with squishy insides. Seasoned with real Parmesa! next came the pork oso buco, which was heavenly! juicy, tender, and flavorful. it came with fabulous mashed potatoes and broccoli rob. $20 for this plate that we could not finish! the Ceasar salad was exceptional and I ordered the smoked and roasted bone marrow, which I ate until I thought I would explode. Hats off to this brother and sister duo for having a winner menu in a quaint and humble setting. read more

SmokeStacks Cafe - Wine Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

This place is still a hidden gem, but shouldn't be. This little café should be a destination choice when in Raleigh. The food is always outstanding, fabulous service, and never a disappointment. I recommend this place to everyone while in Raleigh. It's casual dining but with a highly creative and ever-changing menu. Everyone needs to check this place out at least once. If they do, they will definitely return. read more

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This place is incredible! Don't let the old building fool you. Food is absolutely 5 stars!! We had deviled eggs, wings (garlic Buffalo - the favorite, and dry rib rub), fries and the steak and cheese. The steak on the sandwich melted in your mouth, and the dip that came with the fries was addicting. The AC was not really working, which is the only reason I gave it 4 stars. Would absolutely go back, the food is that good! read more