When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Braise Contemporary Southern
Why Braise Contemporary Southern is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Braise Contemporary Southern offers a welcoming spot in Raleigh's Midtown area that specializes in contemporary Southern cuisine, making it a popular choice for gatherings with friends. Situated within the Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley, the restaurant stands out for its fresh, flavorsome dishes that blend classic Southern comfort food with modern culinary twists. Guests can enjoy everything from a satisfying breakfast buffet featuring staples like creamy grits and savory bacon, to lunch and dinner menus filled with items like pecan salad, short rib, lobster mac and cheese, and grilled drunken shrimp. The ambiance is enhanced by a lively bar with an impressive selection of bourbons, hand-crafted cocktails, and local brews, creating an inviting place to relax and socialize. The service is noted for being attentive and friendly, with management often checking in to ensure a great experience. Beyond food and drink, Braise offers a contemporary and comfortable setting ideal for friends meeting up to enjoy quality meals and drinks together.
Here's what people think of Braise Contemporary Southern
As of recent, Braise Contemporary Southern holds a 4.2-star rating based on 78 reviews.
User reviews reflect a generally positive experience at Braise Contemporary Southern, earning it a solid 4.2 rating from 78 reviews. Many diners praise the freshness and flavor of the food, highlighting dishes like pecan salad, fried chicken, short ribs, and coastal-inspired options such as lobster mac and cheese. The bar and beverage program also receive commendations, especially for expertly poured bourbons and creative cocktails, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. Service quality is frequently mentioned as a strong point, with staff friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall dining enjoyment. However, some reviews express dissatisfaction, citing occasional inconsistencies in food quality. There are reports describing certain dishes, like shrimp and grits, as bland or disappointing despite modifications requested. A few critics feel the food does not live up to expectations for Southern cuisine and describe the flavors as underwhelming. Overall, while there are a mix of experiences, the positive reviews outnumber the negatives, and many patrons recommend Braise as a great place to enjoy contemporary Southern fare with friends in a convivial environment.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
James Goerke
Food was good and the atmosphere is relaxing even though you’re in the middle of a lobby and conversation area. I can’t speak to their breakfast buffet but it looks pretty nice. My beyond burger was ok, it lacked some spices and the caramelized onions were actually grills and not very well. But that’s a small complaint in the scheme of things.
Cat
We had Valentines reservations. We ordered the valentines menu. We received our appetizer and our drinks but that’s it. The waiter was AWFUL. Never told us his name of course. After 30 minutes after eating our appetizer, we told him we were concerned about our food taking such a long time and he says “ok?” As if to say “and?”. We were going to leave at this moment, but I convinced my fiancé to wait a little longer. Almost 10-15 minutes later he returns to say that it’ll be a few more minutes because we ordered the steak well done. (Mind you people that came in long after us are enjoying their steaks and on the way out the door) another 10 minutes go by and he returns to say that he spoke with the manager and our meal will be comped, he asked that we wait another 5 minutes. Never once apologized. Never intentionally kept us informed about the status of our meal, we had to get his attention. The manager never spoke to us. We just left. First and only time at this place. Awful service
Jordan May
They have a coffee bar. Their "coldbrew" was coffee concentrate plus water and ice. Terrible. Absolutely awful coffee. The latte was ok, since it was done by a machine.
Jesse Locklear
Thankful to have a place to get good food after 10pm. We had an old fashioned, the cajun chicken sandwich and the mahi sandwich. Both sandwiches were excellent but the fries were limp and only warm. We had requested extra crispy. Bar was busy and we atethe fries...otherwise it was great!
Constance Teoh
Prompt service but the food was very mid.. They gave a decent amount of shrimps in my shrimps and grits dish but the flavor wasn’t too impressive.
How to reach Braise Contemporary Southern
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Why Braise Contemporary Southern may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Braise Contemporary Southern with your friends? Gathering at Braise Contemporary Southern offers a unique and inviting culinary experience that effortlessly combines the charm of Southern cuisine with fresh, modern twists. This restaurant is not just a place to eat but a destination where friends can congregate and savor thoughtfully crafted dishes in a warm, contemporary atmosphere. Its rating of 4.2 out of 5, based on 78 reviews, demonstrates a solid reputation for quality and enjoyable dining. Whether your group consists of longtime friends or family members coming together, Braise sets the tone for memorable get-togethers with its approachable yet sophisticated menu, featuring crowd-pleasers like lobster mac and cheese and pecan salads that have been praised for their distinctive flavors. The attentive service ensures everyone feels welcomed and attended to, adding to the relaxed, convivial environment. Moreover, the lively bar scene helps transform a simple dinner into a festive occasion. Braise is well suited for anyone looking to enjoy Southern food with a modern edge while sharing laughs, stories, and exquisite dishes with loved ones.
What activities and experiences make Braise Contemporary Southern perfect for group meetups? Braise offers a variety of experiences that cater to groups of all sizes, making it an excellent choice for meetups with friends or family. First and foremost, the dining experience itself is highly social: the menu features a diverse range of Southern-inspired dishes such as delicately fried chicken, short ribs, and innovative sides that will satisfy different palates and dietary preferences. This diversity encourages sharing plates and trying multiple dishes together, fostering conversation and interaction. Beyond the food, the bar area is vibrant and inviting, offering a wide selection of drinks including local beers like the “Son of a Peach,” which adds a fun, local flavor to your gathering. The atmosphere is upbeat and buzzing without being overwhelming, striking a balance that’s ideal for catching up and enjoying good music and company. The restaurant’s layout allows for comfortable seating arrangements suitable for groups, whether you prefer cozy corners for intimate chats or larger tables for boisterous celebrations. Additionally, frequent visits by management to check on guests enhance the feeling that your group's enjoyment is genuinely valued.
How does Braise Contemporary Southern’s menu enhance group dining experiences? The menu at Braise Contemporary Southern stands out by blending classic Southern flavors with innovative preparations, making it a conversation starter and delight for groups keen on exploring new tastes. Notable favorites like the lobster mac and cheese provide a luxurious twist on a traditional comfort dish, while the pecan salad offers a fresh, flavorful contrast that guests often rave about. The ability to order multiple small or large plates encourages a family-style dining experience where dishes can be passed around, enabling everyone to sample a broader range of flavors and dishes. This style promotes interaction and collective enjoyment, which is perfect for friends catching up or families celebrating together. The thoughtfully curated menu also features seasonal ingredients and elevates local produce, contributing to a fresh and dynamic culinary experience each visit. For drink lovers, the cocktail selection complements the food with creative, well-made beverages, making the meal feel complete. Such a diverse and well-executed menu means Braise can easily accommodate different tastes and dietary requirements, ensuring everyone in the group leaves satisfied.
Why is the atmosphere at Braise Contemporary Southern ideal for social gatherings? Braise Contemporary Southern’s ambiance strikes an ideal tone between comfortable and lively, creating the perfect backdrop for social gatherings. The interior is thoughtfully designed to embody a contemporary Southern aesthetic — it feels modern yet warmly inviting, reinforcing a casual elegance that suits both laid-back dinners and special occasions. The venue’s sound level is managed to encourage lively conversation without drowning it out, which can often be a challenge in busy restaurants. This makes it easier to engage fully with friends or family, enhancing the social experience. Staff attentiveness further builds a welcoming environment where guests feel cared for but not interrupted, allowing groups to focus on each other and their shared experience. The combination of great lighting, stylish decor, and friendly energy results in a space that is poised to make gatherings both memorable and comfortable. Whether hosting a birthday, reunion, or simply an evening out, Braise offers a setting that naturally encourages connection and enjoyment.
What makes Braise Contemporary Southern a convenient and accessible choice for meetups? Beyond food and atmosphere, Braise Contemporary Southern impresses with its convenience and overall guest experience, critical factors that make it a favored meetup spot. Located in Raleigh, the restaurant is easily accessible, making it a logical choice for locals and visitors alike. Its reputation for consistent service means that once friends decide to meet up here, they can expect efficient seating and attentive care throughout their visit, minimizing wait times or frustrations that can dampen group outings. The restaurant’s commitment to quality extends to the speed and professionalism of its service, ideal for groups with varied schedules who want to enjoy a reliable, relaxed meal. Pricing is reasonable for the area, balancing quality and affordability so groups don’t have to worry about breaking the bank for a nice night out. Finally, with a mixed crowd of diners—from business lunches to casual friends’ nights—there’s a welcoming vibe for almost any social occasion, making Braise a versatile and trusted venue where meeting up is simple, pleasant, and special.