There’s no doubt North Carolina is an absolute foodie haven; I’ve written several articles on the subject. But of course, North Carolina has ALL kinds of restaurants to choose from – some hole in the wall, and some with five stars and elegant facades. Wherever your food cravings take you, if you consider yourself a ‘true foodie,’ you MUST try these 10 top rated restaurants in North Carolina.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/

1. Chef and the Farmer, Kinston Yelp / Manual G. You might have heard of this restaurant, or chef Vivian Howard, from the PBS show "A Chef's Life." The restaurant has a little stardom, and it's well deserved. The food is amazing, the culinary creations a work of art, but the concept is still simple and approachable. If you're looking to dine here one night, make sure to book your reservations WAY ahead of time. Chef Vivian Howard was a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Southeast. Chef and the Farmer has also made appearances on Open Table's Top 100 list.

2. Artisanal Restaurant, Banner Elk Facebook / Artisanal Restaurant Speaking of Open Table's Top 100, Artisanal has made more than one appearance on their annual list. This farm to table restaurant invokes the tastebuds. You can't beat the rustic yet chic environment either.

3. Nana's, Durham Yelp / Adri T. Nana's has been around since the early '90s, but the quality of the food just gets better with time. Chef Scott Howell was a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Southeast, and Nana's has been featured on Open Table. The food is soulful southern fare with an elegant touch. Yum!

4. The Fearrington House, Pittsboro Yelp / Greg F. You get nothing but elegance when you dine at Fearrington House. It has frequented Open Table's Top 100 list and received national press. Located in a former homestead, you'll enjoy contemporary American fare in a unique environment.

5. McNinch House, Charlotte Yelp / Bill F. Speaking of elegant, the McNinch house is a piece of history located in Charlotte's beautiful Fourth Ward. Diners enjoy lavish Victorian Decorations and a dinner fit for a King and Queen. Another frequent member of Open Table's Top 100, McNinch House is perfect for date night or an anniversary dinner.

6. Panciuto, Hillsborough Yelp / Amanda C. Panciuto is slowly making its way onto the top of the foodie pyramid in North Carolina. You might not have heard of it until now, but Chef Aaron Vandemark is doing something right - he was a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Southeast. You can't go wrong when traditional southern meets Italian cuisine. With locally sourced ingredients highlighted and a seasonal changing menu, you're guaranteed an amazing experience.

7. Chai Pani, Asheville Yelp / Vaibhav G. Chai Pani adds a bit of variety to this list, as it is a more casual dining establishment. But the relaxed atmosphere didn't stop Chef Meherwan Irani from being a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Southeast. If you're looking for delicious, authentic Indian Street Food, you MUST stop in here.

8. Rhubarb, Asheville Yelp / Beatrice M. With contemporary classic dishes and an elegant approach, yet simple menu, Rhubarb might quickly become your favorite restaurant in North Carolina. It's a mix of everything a great restaurant should be, casual, unique, innovative, and still something different. Chef John Fleer was a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Southeast.

9. Cúrate, Asheville Yelp / Jeff L. Asheville seems to be ringing in the final slots, but it IS a foodie haven after all. One restaurant that has certainly made its mark in both Asheville and North Carolina is Cúrate. If you're looking for authentic tapas, like you just stepped off the plane in Spain, you'll want to dine here. Come prepared to wait, but also come with a group - as tapas, or 'small plates,' are best experienced in a large group. Cúrate has made an appearance on Open Table and Chef Katie Button was a James Beard semifinalist for Best Chef Southeast.