In addition to the charming, family-friendly vibes of the town, the restaurants in Apex make it a destination worth visiting. Apex is a rapidly growing town outside of Raleigh, and the foodie scene there is expanding.
We have quite a few favorite spots that we are excited to share with you!
As we are only including restaurants that we have personally visited, there will undoubtedly be some great ones that are left out of this list. If we missed your favorite, please leave us a comment letting us know!
We will continually update this blog as we taste more excellent eateries.
Downtown Apex Restaurants
Apex boasts a charming historic downtown lined with exceptional locally owned businesses. Dating back to the mid-1800s, downtown Apex is known for its railroad station and award-winning restaurants. Therefore, we are giving the restaurants on N Salem St. their own section.
The best way to experience the spots listed here is to plan enough time to stroll and shop before or after your meal. Give yourself the chance to truly take in the spirit of Apex!
Scratch Kitchen and Taproom
Scratch is one of my top recommendations whenever someone tells me they’re visiting Apex. The menu is deliciously unique as it blends classic southern dishes with Asian flavors and ingredients.
Southern comfort with hints of Asian flavor? Count me IN.
The modern-rustic interior and charming garden patio make it an excellent choice for any occasion whether it be date night, girl’s brunch, or family dinner.
Scratch’s second location is also mentioned in our blog about the best restaurants in Cary.
FRESH. Local Ice Cream
FRESH has a few locations in the Triangle, and the Apex one is my favorite. The interior has a lovely exposed brick wall, and the patio has cute black and white umbrellas on the tables. Food tastes better in a cute setting–it’s science.
The ice cream is some of the best, using locally sourced ingredients to create the creamiest texture!
Anna’s Pizzeria
Anna’s is a fantastic family-friendly restaurant serving Italian food and New York-style pizza. Our favorite order is the grandma pizza which comes on a thin pan crust. It is absolutely delicious!
La Rancherita
La Rancherita was never really on my foodie radar, but we spontaneously stopped one day to eat dinner there. It’s unlike me to walk into a restaurant without memorizing the menu and reading the reviews, but I’m so glad we did!
We loved our meal. This place is a solid Mexican spot.
The Peak on Salem
One day, some of my foodie friends and I were invited to The Peak on Salem to meet the chef and try some of his creations. Chef Sed was a gem of a human with an evident passion for what he does. The food was really great, and I especially loved his scallops.
The menu changes seasonally, and I can’t wait to try more dishes next time I visit.
Other Must-Try Restaurants in Apex
Mr. A’s Beignets
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE Mr. A’s Beignets is a food truck based in Apex.
Mr. A grew up in New Orleans and decided to open this truck during his retirement to bring his love of authentic beignets to the community. The truck is usually parked at 312 S. Mason St.; you can see their schedule here.
Akami Sushi Bar
Akami may not look like much from the outside, but it serves up some of the highest-quality sushi in the area. Attached to a gas station, this little restaurant excels in its craft. If beautifully plated sushi rolls made with the freshest seafood and exquisite flavors are your thing, you can’t miss this one.
We can also vouch for carry-out!
Sushi Iwa
If you’re more of a middle-ground sushi lover who keeps an eye out for great rolls at an affordable price, Sushi Iwa is my top favorite everyday sushi spot in the Triangle. They have BOGO rolls all day, every day, even for carry-out orders. The rolls are very generous in size, and I’ve never tried one I didn’t like!
Daniel’s Restaurant
Daniel’s is a favorite Italian eatery among locals because it gives families a casual but warm atmosphere with huge portions, complimentary bread, and tasty dishes without dining at a National chain. I love the lobster ravioli!
Mr. Dumpling
Mr. Dumpling is a fantastic Asian restaurant in Apex that serves fresh, handmade dumplings, noodles, and more. I love the variety of dumpling options, and I was blown away by the flavors in everything I ordered.
Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken
Alpaca has locations across the Triangle and will be included in every list I make if they’re in that city. It is one of our favorite go-to fast-casual restaurants, and we are regulars there.
The rotisserie-style chicken is simply outstanding, and their sides are excellent too.
Help us grow our list!
We already have our eye on a few spots to taste (looking at you Dallas Famous Chicken and Biscuits), but we’d like to hear from you. If you love one of the restaurants we mentioned, tell us what your favorite dish to order is. If you have a spot we should know about, tell us!
Mustang Charlie’s Diner! Located inside a dealership (Crossroads Ford of Apex) but open to the public and welcome to all! Locally owned and operated. Hidden gem right in Apex!
It’s wonderful to see you sharing your favorite restaurants and dining experiences in Apex, which is evidently becoming a hub for food enthusiasts in the Raleigh area. The diversity of culinary options you’ve highlighted, from Southern-inspired dishes with Asian influences to Italian classics and exquisite sushi, will certainly appeal to a wide range of tastes. Whether it’s an elegant date night, a family-friendly meal, or a grab-and-go snack, Apex offers a variety of dining experiences.
Moreover, the local businesses you’ve mentioned, like Raleigh Cheesy and Mr. A’s Beignets, add to the town’s charm by providing unique food offerings that showcase the culinary richness of the area.
Your personal experiences and insights into these restaurants offer valuable recommendations for both locals and visitors to Apex. Keep exploring and enjoying the delicious food scene in the area, and thank you for sharing your foodie adventures!
Check out Yagg Sii Tenn Authentic African Cuisine in Apex!
Rudy’s Pub and Grill! Hands down best handmade food in town!!!
Thanks for the suggestion, Angelina!
Crumb & Cream has opened in the old Utica Bakery location on Upchurch Street. Stop by the pink and white with polka dots shop for delicious treats, like Norwegian waffles, crumb cake, giant cookies, pound cake, specialty drinks, and more.
Good to know! Thanks, Deborah.
The Fish House Eatery located at 841 Perry Road. All seafood is seasoned to perfection and southern style sides. 10 out of 10 on customer service and quality food.
We will have to check it out then. Thanks!
Mamma Mia’s! They have another location in Holly Springs and they are the best Italian food in Apex in my opinion.
Haven’t been yet but I’ve heard good things! Thanks, Brian.
Check out Sushi SUYU, it is new in downtown Apex and we are in love! https://www.sushisuyu.com/
I’ll have to try it. Thanks for the recommendation, Katie!
You gotta try The Provicial in downtown. It’s husband and wife who serve farm to table that is outstanding. The wife makes some killer desserts.
Also, check out Salem Street Pub. They have very good burgers and their Philly cheesesteak is sneaky good.
I’ve always wanted to try The Provincial! Hopefully soon! I will add Salem Street Pub to my list as well– I love a good cheesesteak!
Provincial in Apex is amazing!
Thanks Erica! I’ve heard great things about it–I can’t wait to finally try it!
I agree with everyone… try provincial it’s amazing!!!
I will have to try it! Thanks, Amy.
De Plantas food truck
Dirty V
Element Gastropub in downtown Raleigh
Please
Check out Tandoori Trail in Beaver Creek Crossings for the best North Indian food in town!
Will do! Thanks!