An Elegant Culinary Landmark in the Heart of Raleigh
Located at 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603, United States, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern stands as a distinguished pillar of the local dining scene. Housed within a beautifully preserved historic mansion, the establishment offers a unique atmosphere that seamlessly blends the grandeur of the past with contemporary culinary excellence. Guests visiting this iconic location are immediately greeted by an ambiance that feels both sophisticated and welcoming, making it a premier destination for those seeking a memorable meal in the capital city of North Carolina.
The philosophy at Second Empire is rooted in the belief that dining should be an immersive experience. By focusing on high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation, the kitchen team honors traditional techniques while embracing modern flavor profiles. Whether you are celebrating a significant milestone, hosting a business dinner, or simply looking to enjoy a refined evening out, the restaurant provides a setting that elevates every occasion. The architecture itself tells a story, with intricate details and classic design elements that reflect the rich heritage of the building, providing a stunning backdrop for the artistry served on every plate.
Beyond the physical beauty of the venue, the commitment to service remains a cornerstone of the Second Empire experience. The staff is dedicated to ensuring that every guest feels attended to with grace and professionalism. This focus on hospitality, combined with a thoughtfully curated environment, has helped the restaurant maintain its reputation as a cornerstone of the Raleigh community for years. It is a place where history is respected, and the future of fine dining is continuously explored through passion and culinary creativity.
Distinctive Features of the Second Empire Experience
Historic Architectural Setting: The restaurant is situated in a meticulously maintained historic mansion, offering guests an authentic glimpse into the architectural elegance of the era while providing a unique and atmospheric dining environment.
Refined Culinary Approach: The menu is crafted with a focus on seasonal ingredients and precise preparation, ensuring that each dish highlights the natural flavors and quality of the components used by the culinary team.
Versatile Dining Spaces: With distinct areas available, the venue caters to a variety of needs, ranging from intimate, quiet corners perfect for conversation to more expansive settings suitable for larger gatherings and special celebrations.
Commitment to Hospitality: A hallmark of the establishment is its focus on attentive and professional service, ensuring that every visitor enjoys a seamless and comfortable experience from the moment they arrive until the conclusion of their meal.
A Timeless Destination for Discerning Diners
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern continues to be a vital part of the cultural and culinary fabric of Raleigh. By maintaining a balance between historical preservation and modern gastronomic standards, it offers a dining experience that is both grounded in tradition and relevant to today’s food enthusiasts. For those exploring the vibrant streets of downtown Raleigh, a visit to this Hillsborough Street landmark promises more than just a meal; it offers a moment to appreciate the intersection of history, hospitality, and culinary craft. We invite you to discover the charm and elegance that define this exceptional establishment and become part of its ongoing story.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Menus
Reviews Second Empire Restaurant And Tavern
Alex Shaw
30-05-2026
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.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Wait time
No wait
Parking space
Plenty of parking
Meg Palumbo
30-05-2026
This is our go to spot for special occasions and this visit was no different! The food is incredible and service is even better. Amanda took great care of us. I highly recommend making a reservation for the tavern. It’s the perfect combination of fancy and cozy, without being too formal. More
Tayler T
30-05-2026
We had an incredible time celebrating our 6 year anniversary at Second Empire! The staff was so attentive, and each plate that came out was beautiful and delicate. Our server, Derick, was extremely knowledgeable on the menu and wine … More
Artye Asvui
30-05-2026
My waiter might have not liked me personally but he forgot to bring me wine. The service was extremely slow and we got there when they opened and there was only 1 other party in our area. My entre was paella and I was expecting authentic, … More
Aresa Hairston
30-05-2026
Second Empire is truly a hidden gem. If you're not careful, you could walk past this beautiful place and never even know it. It's as beautiful as it is delicious. As soon as we arrived, we were warmly greeted. We had some amazing drinks, … More
Bryan C
30-05-2026
Went this evening to celebrate for our anniversary. 10/10 on every metric: service, food and ambiance. It felt like one coherent team, everyone on the same page. Hats off to the chef and a gracious thank you to our waiter, Derrick. More
Michael Glinter
30-05-2026
Undoubtedly One of the Best Restaurants in the Raleigh-Durham Area
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After moving to the area earlier this year, I have had the opportunity to eat at dozens of local culinary establishments in search of the best food experience. I believe we have a winner! Having traveled to over 69 countries, 33 states, and 6 continents, I have had the opportunity to dine at some of the world's best restaurants with some of its finest chefs. The Second Empire takes staple classics found around the world. It adds its own unique flair, flavor profile, and combination of ingredients to elevate the entire experience to a truly elevated level.
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From the charming old-school house atmosphere with its unique décor, a warm family environment, and elegant ambiance, to attentive and informative staff, and exemplary food, they have truly elevated the entire patron experience.
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We started with the Crispy Point Judith Calamari, a lesson in balance and texture to learn. Each bite boasted a lightly breaded outside with a soft, sweetly tender calamari within. The creamy roasted pineapple garnish added a subtropical sweetness, elevating the course far beyond a fried starter-like experience to one of refined flavors.
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The Classic "330" French Onion Soup was a sophisticated, yet reassuring, take on the classic without the typical beef broth. This is only the second time in the US that I have had the opportunity to enjoy a truly authentic French onion soup, where the broth is made from the main ingredient, not beef-flavored broth. This chef truly demonstrates the classic French training that creates masterpieces. Rich, sweet depth was added to the rich broth by caramelized Spanish onions, and Gruyère melted into a rich, nutty layer over toasted herb croutons. Every bite was packed with both heartiness and subtlety, demonstrating that great ingredients, when cooked well, can create deep satisfaction.
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The Grilled Beeler Farms Pork Rack Chop*- Beautifully browned and seared, the pork rack chop easily stood out on its own. Cooked to perfection, juicy and tender, it was complemented with a creamy, rich ricotta cheese and grain mustard polenta, providing a great balance of subtle tanginess and creaminess to the dish. Added to this blended mix of baby kale, curried Brussels sprouts, bacon, and cabbage salad was a dish that offered a mix of savory, bitter, and smoky flavors. The addition of the ginger-raisin cider vinaigrette jus created a crisp, sweet, and spicy balance, which harmonized the entire dish.
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The Pennsylvania Five-Spiced Duck Breast* was a culinary exercise in precision and global influence. Seared to a precise medium-rare, the duck's rich, gamey flavor was complemented by the Provençal hominy and eggplant, as well as the creamy zucchini and mozzarella. The braised Napa cabbage and elote salad provided texture and freshness, while the ancho chili roasted pineapple sauce added a hint of sweetness and heat, but not enough to overpower, instead highlighting the duck. The dish was in balance, being both complex and comforting, which made it unique.
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Lastly, there was a 7-ounce filet special. Unfortunately, since it's a special, I don't have the lengthy combination of ingredients that made up this perfect dish. However, the preparation and execution were flawless, with the main staple – the filet— seared to a perfect crust with a juicy and tender texture that melts in your mouth with every bite. The culinary sophistication, achieved by combining all the ingredients, creates an elevated view of a classic meal.
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Overall – I can’t say anything else. It is by far one of the best restaurants in the area. I would not only recommend this restaurant to anyone without hesitation, but I would challenge local restaurants to learn a lesson from this restaurant's impeccable overall customer experience and culinary execution.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Sharon Fosbury
30-05-2026
We came to celebrate our anniversary, and the staff did several things to help us celebrate. Derek was our waiter, and he was very knowledgeable about not only the menu, but the history of the restaurant as well. Staff was very accommodating, checking in frequently but not too much.
The food was delicious, and the presentation was fantastic. We started with the French onion soup and the roasted duck leg at pineapple salad. For entrees, we had grilled moroccan seasoned swordfish and the New Hampshire crabcake. Both were perfect!
In addition to the delicious food, we enjoyed some of their signature drinks. To top things off, Derek gave us a tour of the home/restaurant. It was an excellent experience.
Price per person
USD 50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
3-4 people
Wait time
No wait
Michelle Labdon
30-05-2026
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.
Price per person
USD 30–50
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Rack of Lamb, Charcuterie Board
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
3-4 people
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free parking lot, Paid parking lot, Free street parking
Wheelchair accessibility
They do have an elevator to access the upper and lower floors, however it can be a little tight with how the tables are laid out.
Jon Rodriguez
30-05-2026
This restaurant is so classy and special, we’ve been a few times over 10 years or so, to celebrate something special. This time our 18 year wedding anniversary. It was a great choice and the staff does nice things to ensure your special occasion is recognized and celebrated. The chef gave us a signed menu to do something nice and give us a keepsake. Really nice.
The food is tremendous and tastes super fresh and healthy. I think the ingredients they use must really be top notch.
The building is beautiful and just oozes charm everywhere. You won’t be disappointed!
Price per person
USD 100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Moderate noise
Group size
2 people, 3-4 people, 5-8 people
Wait time
No wait
Jem Lundy
30-05-2026
The service and overall atmosphere were truly the highlight of our experience. My husband took me here for my birthday, and I was immediately impressed by the upscale ambiance. Our waitress was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive, she guided us through the menu and helped create a special, celebratory experience for my day.
As for the food, it didn’t quite live up to expectations. I started with a salad that was overly salty. The lamb I ordered was decent, but I’ve had better, and my husband’s duck was just okay. While the dishes were fine, they didn’t stand out or feel worth the price.
Overall, the ambiance and exceptional service stood out far more than the food itself.
Price per person
USD 50–100
Food: 3
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
2 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area
Camerons Culinarium
30-05-2026
Really cool restaurant with great food. Started with a 3 cheese plate. The sheep's milk blue cheese was the star of the show. They had a dinner course special of foie gras and a filet mignon. Both were paired with too many things to … More
BRAD CROOKER
30-05-2026
I have a habit of being too effusive in my praise in many of my reviews, but for SECOND EMPIRE, I cannot possibly hold back. This restaurant is phenomenal, on every level. … More
Disha Victor
30-05-2026
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! More
Blane Rice
30-05-2026
This is truly an exceptional dining experience. We enjoyed the atmosphere and the service very much. This is a special occasion restaurant. They made our 39th wedding anniversary very special!. We even had a signed menu from the chef waiting for us! Highly recommend for those special occasions! More
A E
30-05-2026
The service was fine, I had the scallops. Over $50 with tip for three scallops just is not worth it. The scallops needed way more salt and maybe a side of lemon to balance the flavor. Overall, service was fine, but not at all what I am used to visiting fine dining establishments. Underwhelmed on all fronts.
Food: 3
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
1 person
Alex Dreytser
30-05-2026
Our visit to Second Empire was absolutely phenomenal! Elegant Victorian house, the ambience set the tone for a perfect dinner. Every dish we tried was a masterpiece! Just amazing! Impeccable service!!! We felt like VIPs! It was our anniversary dinner and everyone at the restaurant made sure we had an excellent experience. I can’t wait to return! If you are looking for an upscale dining experience in Raleigh with unforgettable food and service, Second Empire is a must visit. Highly recommend!!!
Price per person
USD 100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
2 people, Suitable for all group sizes
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Bar area
Recommendation for vegetarians
Not sure
Vegetarian offerings
Not sure
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Paid parking lot, Free street parking, Paid street parking, Paid parking garage
Kid-friendliness
Probably not
Wheelchair accessibility
Probably yes
Joseph Martin
30-05-2026
My family and I went there to celebrate. It was an amazing dinner. The food was so flavorful and different than any other place. The chef is very talented at combining flavors. The desserts were very unique, but very good. For example, their was a chocolate and apricot cake which I’ve never had before and it was amazing. It seemed like the chef put his own touch. Our family all ordered different dishes. The highlight of the night was definitely all of the desserts lol, the ribeye, and calamari. Also shouout to Amanda for remembering all of the dishes and specials lol 😂
Price per person
USD 50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Reservation required
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
3-4 people
Melinda Cotter
30-05-2026
First timer and will return! When the hostess called to confirm and asked if we were celebrating something special, I mentioned our anniversary. We arrived for our 6:45 reservation about 6-7 minutes early and were seated immediately in the main dining room. We were presented with the standard menus, wine list, special cocktail list, etc., plus a copy of the menu with a Happy Anniversary (with our names) at the top and signed by the Chef as a keepsake of the evening -- such an awesome touch.
Every staff member was amazing. They were knowledgable, friendly, authentic, and attentive.
We started with the Aleppo Margarita (great amount of spice and flavor) and a standard Rum & Coke (also balanced for something simple).
For firsts, we split the pork belly and a foie gras special. The depth of flavor was incredible. Perfect amount of sauce, accents, and temperature.
For seconds, we both had the ribeye. We're definitely picky with steak, in general, as we both can make great steaks - these were flavorful and excellent cuts. I was surprised that the recommendation was "Medium." My husband got his rare and I said medium to medium-rare. Medium rare is my go-to, but with the Chef recommending Medium, I didn't want to stray too far from the preferred. The outermost parts of my steak edged on the far side of Medium, but the rest was just as asked for. I would consider my husband's medium rare (at least 90% of it), so there are probably some hot parts of the grill/pan. All that aside, the cut, flavor, and sides were so well-balanced. We split a bottle of WillaKenzie Pinot Noir and it went well with all.
We were stuffed and didn't even consider dessert. We would absolutely return because of top notch service, attention to detail, atmosphere, and quality and taste of food! While we did spend a lot per person (according to google review options), there are many dishes and wines by glass options that make it more affordable!
Price per person
USD 100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
T. Valdes
30-05-2026
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern in Raleigh is a true gem, offering an exceptional fine-dining experience within the historic and beautifully preserved Dodd-Hinsdale House. From the moment you arrive, the elegant atmosphere sets the tone—refined yet welcoming, with a sense of timeless charm that makes any evening feel special.
The cuisine is nothing short of outstanding. Every dish is thoughtfully crafted and beautifully presented, making each plate feel like a work of art. From the rich, flavorful paella to the evening special of perfectly executed crab cakes, the food delivers both creativity and balance, highlighting high-quality ingredients and expert technique. Each bite is as delicious as it is beautiful.
The service is equally amazing—our server Sam and his assistant were polished, attentive, and genuinely warm. A special highlight was dessert: each pastry choice was outstanding, clearly made with the same care and artistry as the main courses. To make the evening even more memorable, the chef personally signed our menu, a thoughtful gesture that made our anniversary feel truly special and unforgettable.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Reservation
Reservation required
Noise level
Quiet, easy to talk
Group size
Suitable for all group sizes
Seating type
Indoor dining area, Private dining room
Parking space
Somewhat difficult to find parking
Parking options
Free parking lot, Paid street parking
Reviews Second Empire Restaurant And Tavern