When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar
Why 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar is a vibrant dining destination located within the Hilton North Hills in Raleigh, North Carolina. This restaurant beautifully combines casual comfort with contemporary style, creating the perfect atmosphere for friends to gather and enjoy a memorable meal. Open daily for breakfast and dinner, it offers a variety of familiar Southern-inspired dishes crafted with a modern flair and made using fresh, local ingredients. The menu features a creative array of food options that appeal to a wide range of tastes, along with a handpicked selection of regional craft beers, micro-distilled spirits, and innovative cocktails. The welcoming ambiance and quality cuisine make 88 Oaks a great choice for social meals, whether catching up over breakfast, enjoying a light lunch, or savoring dinner in a relaxed yet stylish setting. Additionally, for those looking to host events or private dinners, 88 Oaks provides a private dining room that accommodates up to 48 guests, with flexible arrangements available for intimate groups. This combination of excellent food, drink, and accommodating spaces positions 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar as a prime spot to meet up with friends and family in Raleigh.
Here's what people think of 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar
As of recent, 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar holds a 4.1-star rating based on 203 reviews.
Reviews for 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar reflect an overall positive experience, with a solid rating of 4.1 stars out of 203 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the restaurant's thoughtfully renovated space within the Hilton North Hills and consistently highlight the quality of the breakfast and lunch offerings, noting their satisfaction with the flavorful dishes and fresh ingredients. Positive reviews often emphasize the modern twist on Southern classics, the comfortable ambiance, and the attentive service by staff. Guests also enjoy the diverse drink selection, including innovative cocktails and local craft beers, which complement their meals well. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional inconsistencies with food preparation or service speed, possibly related to busy periods or staffing. A few customers felt that certain dishes did not meet their expectations in terms of taste or portion size. Despite these critiques, most visitors conclude that 88 Oaks maintains a strong reputation for quality and atmosphere. The restaurant's welcoming vibe and dedication to local ingredients make it an inviting spot to return to, with potential for improvements based on customer feedback.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Melika Mason
2024 update: Tonight I was greeted by Christine as usual but the menu had something called Muddle…. Well, it came with Grits which I don’t care for but the chef modified the meal to have toasted bread instead of grits for me. OMG DELICIOUS. Definitely, something to try when here. The mahi mahi was a huge fillet surrounded by perfectly cooked shrimp. The flavor profile is something worth trying, I will be getting this on every trip back to Raleigh!! Fortunately, I come to Raleigh often for business and this hotel restaurant is by far, the best in the region. As with most hotel restaurants their menu suffered during Covid but this restaurant is doing a great job working their way back in to an expanded menu. One week they had salmon skin on the menu and it was truly fresh as they did actually cook it rare as requested. The flavor profiles of the dishes do have differentiating tastes which is surprising for a “hotel” restaurant. Try the wings! They are fabulous and huge. Christine and Antone are the best bartenders!!
Clarissa C
The wings and bbq pork pizza were excellent here! It’s located in the Hilton lobby but it’s a huge size space. The menu was a little more limited in person than what we saw online but that’s okay! The staff was very nice. We ate at the bar and enjoyed cocktails.
Jeff Fleming
The breakfast buffet is above average to excellent. Definitely pricey. The atmosphere is pleasant and the wait staff are friendly and helpful. I would prefer Waffle House but this was convenient good food with limited timeline.
Mike Tretola
Even though this is one of very few breakfast buffets in the area, I was expecting breakfast buffets I’ve experienced pre-Covid with things like an omelet station, fresh pastries and desserts, other cooked to order foods, and beverages like Bloody Mary’s or Bellinis. I didn’t expect this to be restaurant to be part of the hotel lobby. The buffet essentially is a glorified continental breakfast at any hotel, plus the opportunity to also get a 3 ingredient omelet that’s cooked in the kitchen. No fresh pastries or desserts (just prepackaged danishes and small muffins). No omelet station. No bar. The buffet bar consisted of powdered eggs, stale French Toast, fresh cut fruits like pineapple and melon, small yogurt cups, cereal bins, Saran-wrapped bagels, oatmeal and grits, seasoned potatoes, bacon strips, and sausage links. Didn’t think it was worth the $21 price.
E McIver Jr.
Very pricey if you're not staying in the hotel, but an awesome restaurant indeed... and the servers are wonderful. Food is grade A!!!
How to reach 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar
None
Website: None
Why 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar with your friends?
When considering a great spot to gather with friends or family, 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar emerges as a compelling choice in Raleigh, North Carolina. This vibrant restaurant offers an inviting atmosphere that blends authentic Southern charm with a modern touch, making it ideal for those who appreciate both comfort and style. Whether you're planning a casual brunch, a lively dinner, or just a relaxed evening out, 88 Oaks provides a setting conducive to socializing and celebration. The restaurant is housed within the Hilton Raleigh North Hills, adding an element of convenience and sophistication for guests who might be attending events nearby or exploring the North Hills district. With a rating of 4.1 from over 200 reviews, the restaurant consistently earns praise for its friendly service and quality food, fostering a welcoming environment that encourages groups to linger and enjoy meaningful conversations. The locally sourced ingredients and Southern-inspired menu ensure there is something delightful for every palate, from hearty breakfast options to expertly crafted dishes at dinner. If you want to rally your friends for a memorable experience filled with great food, drinks, and ambiance, 88 Oaks stands out as a top-notch destination.
What activities and menu options make 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar perfect for group meetups?
88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar offers a variety of activities and experiences that make it particularly welcoming for groups. First and foremost, the extensive menu caters to diverse tastes within a group, featuring everything from classic Southern breakfasts to innovative takes on local favorites like shrimp and grits. For example, patrons often mention standout dishes such as the 8-hour short rib with cheddar polenta and a sweet braising jus or the smash burger with fries—both rich in flavor and perfect for sharing recommendations among friends. The breakfast buffet with a made-to-order omelet station adds flexibility, making morning gatherings effortless and enjoyable. Beyond the food, the bar at 88 Oaks features a curated selection of local draft beers, appealing to craft beer enthusiasts eager to sample North Carolina’s famed brews, including hits like ShotGun Betty from Lonerider Brewery. This focus on local ingredients and beverages enhances the communal dining experience, inviting conversation and shared tasting adventures. Additionally, the staff is well-regarded for delivering fantastic and attentive service, ensuring that groups feel cared for and issues are addressed promptly, which is vital for a smooth outing.
How can the atmosphere and space at 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar enhance your group experience?
The ambiance at 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar is thoughtfully designed to evoke the warmth of Southern hospitality with a modern edge, creating an inviting space for groups to connect. Housed within the Hilton Raleigh North Hills, the restaurant benefits from a sleek, contemporary interior that balances comfort with style, featuring spacious seating arrangements conducive to both intimate conversations and larger group gatherings. This flexibility makes it suitable whether your meetup is a casual brunch, an evening celebration, or a business-casual dinner with friends or colleagues. The atmosphere strikes a balance between lively and relaxed, with enough energy to feel vibrant but without overwhelming noise that could hinder conversation. Some guests appreciate the option to enjoy outdoor seating, providing a refreshing backdrop during pleasant weather, perfect for leisurely meals and extended socializing. The bar area also acts as a social hub, encouraging casual meetups over cocktails or local brews. The well-thought-out layout and inviting ambiance ensure groups can gather comfortably, fostering connection and camaraderie in a setting that feels both special and approachable.
What makes the service at 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar stand out for groups meeting up?
Service quality can make or break a group outing, and at 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar, the staff consistently earns commendations for being professional, attentive, and personable. Reviews frequently highlight how the servers handle large groups with ease, accommodating special requests while maintaining promptness and friendliness. This level of service helps ensure your gathering proceeds smoothly, whether ordering complicated meals, coordinating drinks rounds, or managing dietary preferences within your party. Bartenders are often praised for their knowledge and skill, expertly mixing drinks and recommending local craft beers to complement your meal, which adds a personalized touch that makes the experience memorable. The team’s attentiveness contributes to a relaxed atmosphere where guests feel valued and well taken care of. For events or meetups tied to the larger Hilton venue, the staff's experience managing varied customer needs is an asset, blending professionalism with Southern hospitality. Such reliable, warm service enhances the enjoyment of group dining, allowing friends and families to focus on time together rather than logistics or delays.
Why is 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar a convenient and strategic location for hosting meetups?
Located in Raleigh's North Hills area, 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar benefits from a prime location that adds convenience and appeal to any group meetup. Being situated inside the Hilton Raleigh North Hills hotel means easy accessibility for guests coming from out of town or those attending events within the hotel’s meeting spaces and ballrooms. This proximity allows for seamless transitions between business or entertainment events and casual dining gatherings, making it a natural choice for mixed-purpose meetups. The North Hills neighborhood itself is a vibrant district full of shopping, entertainment, and nightlife options, providing ample opportunities for groups to extend their outing before or after dining. Ample parking and easy highway access further simplify gatherings, especially for larger groups or mixed-age parties. The restaurant’s location also appeals to locals looking for a reliable spot to rally with friends without straying far from home. In sum, the convenience of 88 Oaks’ location combined with its quality offerings makes it an appealing hub for socializing, celebrating, or simply enjoying quality time together.
What dining options at 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar make it a flexible choice for different group occasions?
One of the key strengths of 88 Oaks Carolina Kitchen and Bar is its diverse and flexible dining options that suit various group occasions. For early risers or those wanting a leisurely morning meetup, the breakfast buffet with made-to-order omelets delivers both variety and customization, allowing everyone to find something they love. Later in the day, the lunch and dinner menus showcase elevated Southern cuisine featuring dishes such as short ribs, shrimp and grits, and delicious burgers, suitable for both casual and more refined tastes. The menu is designed to encourage sharing so groups can sample and compare favorites, a hallmark of great social dining. Drink options include local craft beers and a selection of cocktails, appealing to many palates and enhancing the festive vibe of group gatherings. Whether your event is a celebratory brunch, a casual dinner with family, or a relaxed night out with friends, 88 Oaks’ wide-ranging menu ensures that dietary preferences and hunger levels are easily accommodated. This adaptability makes planning meetups less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone involved.