When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
NOFO @ The Pig Cafe
Why NOFO @ The Pig Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
NOFO @ The Pig Cafe stands out as an exceptional and lively gathering spot in Raleigh's Historic Five Points district. Located in a lovingly restored former Piggly Wiggly grocery store, this unique venue combines a charming cafe, gourmet market, and an enticing gift shop under one roof. Its colorful and quirky ambiance, featuring a memorable pig chandelier and playful decor, creates an inviting atmosphere ideal for meeting friends for brunch, lunch, or dinner. Patrons can enjoy dining indoors, on the outdoor deck, or even host private gatherings on the balcony, accommodating groups of various sizes. NOFO is celebrated for its Southern-inspired New American cuisine, serving dishes like Shrimp and Grits and Joyce Farms Chicken that celebrate rich, comforting flavors. Beyond delicious food, the attached country store offers a curated mix of quirky gifts and local art, adding a unique shopping experience to every visit. The cafe’s accessibility, friendly service, and range of dietary-friendly options make it a versatile choice for diverse groups. With its strong reputation and distinct charm, NOFO @ The Pig Cafe is a fantastic venue for socializing, enjoying quality meals, and exploring a blend of culinary and retail delights in a relaxed, fun setting.
Here's what people think of NOFO @ The Pig Cafe
As of recent, NOFO @ The Pig Cafe holds a 4.6-star rating based on 639 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise NOFO @ The Pig Cafe for its warm, inviting atmosphere and high-quality food. Many highlight the charm of the historic setting and the fun, quirky decor which enhances the dining experience. Positive reviews often mention the perfectly brewed Southern-style iced tea, inventive brunch dishes, and the flavorful signature items like Shrimp and Grits as standout menu highlights. The attached gift shop also earns frequent compliments for its unique and locally inspired offerings, enriching the overall visit. Guests appreciate the friendly staff and the option for indoor and outdoor seating, which contributes to a comfortable and welcoming environment for families and groups. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to inconsistencies in service speed during busy times and occasional parking challenges, which can affect the overall experience. A few diners express a desire for extended weekend hours or more varied menu options, but these comments are relatively rare. Overall, the reviews reflect a strong customer satisfaction rating of 4.6 out of 5 from over 600 patrons, indicating that NOFO @ The Pig Cafe is widely regarded as a beloved Raleigh dining landmark offering a delightful combination of excellent cuisine, unique ambiance, and friendly hospitality.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Robert B Butler
We enjoyed our FIVE-STAR meal and shopping experience at The Pig Cafe and NOFO shop/gift shop, nestled in the charming Five Points area of Raleigh’s beautiful and historic Hayes Barton district. The food was great (see photos) consisting of a chicken salad sandwich with fruit bowl, and a shrimp cake sandwich with fried okra (yum)! Many food options are available, including food to go from the NOFO coolers. Shopping at NOFO is a real retail treat with something for every appetite and every age (see photos).
Kierstyn Myers
I recently had the pleasure of enjoying brunch at NOFO @ the Pig, and I can’t say enough good things about the experience. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with warm hospitality and seated right away. The service was impressively quick, and our waitress was an absolute gem—friendly, attentive, and genuinely enthusiastic about the menu. I went with the French toast, and wow—what a treat. It was perfectly fluffy, with just the right balance of crisp edges and soft center. My friend ordered the fried chicken, and I have to say, it was some of the best I’ve tried. Lightly breaded with a satisfying crunch and packed with flavor, it hit every mark for excellent fried chicken. Between the cozy atmosphere, the fantastic food, and the top-notch service, NOFO @ the Pig has definitely earned a spot on my go-to brunch list. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this place is absolutely worth a visit!
Rebecca Melton
We had the best dinner at Nofo!!! Delicious salmon and prime rib, super reasonable prices. It was really fun to shop in the gift shop beforehand. There is tons of easy parking as well. But what really made our dinner stand out was getting to chat with our waitress Laura!!! She had tons of suggestions of things to do nearby, which was much appreciated by us. We love the Raleigh area because of people like Laura. Thank you Nofo and Laura!
Palazoloup
Great little gem on Raleigh. NOFO is short for North and Fourth. The restaurant and gift shop is housed in a former Piggly Wiggly grocery store. I did not visit the gift shop, opting to go straight to lunch! Menu is eclectic with some standard items mixed in. I have the grilled chicken sandwich on toasted wheat berry bread. It was very good and the side of sweet potato fries was perfect. The beef burger was great but the big surprise was the spinach burger. Unbelievable! For drinks there are teas, canned sodas and alcoholic beverages. Wines by the glass looked ok. We will be back again.
Della “D” L
This was our first visit. We were Googling places we haven’t been before. This is a gem. The staff is polite, the atmosphere is wonderful and the food is amazing!
How to reach NOFO @ The Pig Cafe
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Why NOFO @ The Pig Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at NOFO @ The Pig Cafe with your friends?
NOFO @ The Pig Cafe offers a uniquely charming and vibrant atmosphere that makes it an ideal destination for gathering with friends or family. Nestled in the Historic Five Points Business District of Raleigh, this establishment combines a cozy café ambiance with a quirky charm, housed in a beautifully restored Piggly Wiggly grocery store building. The café's inviting space is distinguished by playful touches such as the iconic pig chandelier, which adds to the cheerful and welcoming vibe. Beyond the décor, NOFO serves up delicious Southern-inspired cuisine that caters to diverse palates, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring everyone in your group can find something satisfying. Additionally, the attached gourmet market and gift shop enrich the experience by offering unique local art and quirky items that make for great conversation starters or souvenirs. Whether you prefer indoor seating, a sunny deck, or the private balcony for events, NOFO @ The Pig provides a relaxing, fun setting to reconnect and create lasting memories over great food and drinks. With a high rating of 4.6 from over 600 reviews, it’s clear many have enjoyed their time here, making it a trusted spot to host your next group meetup.
What activities and dining experiences does NOFO @ The Pig Cafe offer for groups?
NOFO @ The Pig Cafe presents a compelling blend of activities and dining options ideal for groups seeking to mingle and enjoy shared experiences. The café operates on a full-service schedule offering lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, allowing groups to plan meetups around any mealtime preferences. Their menu features classic Southern dishes like pan-fried chicken, crispy fried catfish, and prime rib that showcase familiar flavors with a gourmet twist. Complementary drink options include craft cocktails like Bloody Marys and Mimosas, as well as a selection of beers and wines, facilitating lively toasts and socializing. The space itself is adjustable to accommodate both casual gatherings and more formal private parties, with indoor dining, a sunny outdoor deck, and a private balcony that groups can reserve. Beyond dining, visitors can explore the adjoining market and gift shop that’s stocked with local art and quirky gifts, making it perfect for groups to browse together and find unique keepsakes. These features create an interactive, multifaceted outing where food, drink, and shopping intertwine to keep all guests entertained and engaged.
How does the location and ambiance contribute to group meetups at NOFO @ The Pig?
The location of NOFO @ The Pig in Raleigh’s Historic Five Points District is a significant draw for groups looking to meet up in a lively yet relaxed neighborhood setting. This area is known for its charm and proximity to downtown Raleigh and Glenwood South, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. Situated in a beautifully restored historic building, the café’s ambiance blends nostalgia with contemporary flair, providing a backdrop that feels both warm and distinctive. The interior design celebrates quirky Southern culture with playful, artistic details that make each visit feel special. Seating options such as the comfortable indoors, open-air deck, and private balcony provide groups with choices tailored to their mood and occasion—from intimate conversations to more festive celebrations. The welcoming atmosphere is further enhanced by attentive service and a café layout that encourages socializing without overcrowding. For groups, this means their meetup can be as laid-back or energetic as desired, all within a unique space that feels authentic to Raleigh’s vibe.
What makes the menu at NOFO @ The Pig suitable for diverse group tastes and dietary needs?
The menu at NOFO @ The Pig meticulously balances Southern comfort food with versatility to accommodate diverse group tastes and dietary requirements. It features beloved classics like meatloaf, fried catfish, and prime rib, alongside lighter options including fresh salads and vegetarian-friendly dishes—highlighting their inclusive approach. They also cater to dietary restrictions with clearly marked vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring guests with specific needs do not feel limited. Seasonal and daily specials like the hot pimento cheese dip and rotating blue plate specials add variety and opportunities to try new flavors each visit. The café emphasizes local ingredients and Southern culinary traditions, but with a modern sensibility that suits contemporary tastes. Beverage options are flexible too, ranging from coffee drinks with alternative milks to specialty cocktails and craft beers, making it easy to find something for everyone’s palate. All of these elements combined create an inclusive and satisfying menu experience that enhances group enjoyment.
How can groups make the most of the market and gift shop at NOFO @ The Pig?
The adjoining market and gift shop at NOFO @ The Pig offer a unique complement to any dining or social experience, making it a highlight for group meetups. This space is curated with a collection of quirky, locally inspired items and Raleigh-related art that provide perfect conversation pieces. Groups can wander through the store together, discovering creative gifts, handcrafted goods, and boutique groceries that reflect Southern culture and charm. It’s an excellent opportunity for gift hunting, souvenir collecting, or simply enjoying a browsing break between meals or events. The market also offers curbside pickup and extended hours, which adds convenience for groups who want to bring home favorite finds or last-minute treats. Exploring this shop together extends the visit beyond dining and fosters a shared discovery experience, making meetups feel more immersive and memorable. For gatherings centered around local culture and unique finds, NOFO’s market enhances the overall appeal and provides a tangible takeaway from the visit.
What facilities and services does NOFO @ The Pig provide to accommodate group events and private parties?
NOFO @ The Pig excels in providing facilities and services tailored for group events and private parties, making it a versatile spot for celebrations, reunions, or casual get-togethers. The café’s layout includes an intimate private balcony that can be reserved for parties looking for a more exclusive experience. This area offers a semi-private space where groups can enjoy the ambiance with a bit more privacy while still benefiting from the full café menu and bar service. Additionally, the outdoor deck and main dining areas are spacious and flexible enough to accommodate larger groups comfortably, ideal for casual meetups and communal dining. The staff is experienced in hosting events, assisting with reservations, menu planning, and accommodating any special dietary needs. Their combination of attentive table service, a full bar, and a diverse menu supports various event types, from brunch celebrations to evening dinners. This full-featured approach ensures groups feel welcomed, well-catered, and comfortable, enhancing the overall experience of hosting a memorable meetup at NOFO.
What makes NOFO @ The Pig stand out in reviews and community reputation?
NOFO @ The Pig stands out in the Raleigh community and beyond due to its consistently high ratings, glowing reviews, and multiple local awards. It holds an impressive overall rating of 4.6 based on over 600 reviews, reflecting widespread customer satisfaction across food, service, ambiance, and overall experience. Locals and visitors frequently highlight the café’s welcoming atmosphere, delicious Southern-inspired menu, and its whimsical, quirky charm. It’s won accolades like Best Brunch, Best Bloody Mary, and Best Gift Shop from area readers and has been featured positively in regional magazines such as Southern Living, which named it one of the 50 best gift shops in the South. Reviewers often emphasize the perfect balance between unique character and quality offerings, making it a favorite meeting spot for groups seeking something beyond a typical restaurant or café. This strong reputation signals to prospective guests that NOFO @ The Pig is a trusted, beloved destination for social dining with friends or family.
What practical tips should groups know before visiting NOFO @ The Pig?
To make the most of a group visit to NOFO @ The Pig, it’s useful to know their hours and reservation policies. The café serves lunch Tuesday through Friday, dinner Wednesday through Saturday, and weekend brunch on Saturday and Sunday, with the café closed on Mondays. The gift shop market has slightly different hours, providing more flexibility for shopping around meal times. For groups, it’s advisable to call ahead and make reservations, especially for larger parties or those seeking the private balcony space, to ensure seamless seating. Takeout and curbside pickup are also available for convenient meal options if a full dine-in experience isn’t preferred. The café is wheelchair accessible and offers amenities like parking and highchairs, making it easy for diverse groups to visit. Lastly, arriving with some time to explore the gift shop can enhance the visit, so planning for a relaxed, multi-activity outing maximizes enjoyment for everyone involved.
Overall, NOFO @ The Pig Cafe blends a distinctive Southern hospitality with eclectic charm, a versatile menu, and inviting spaces that are designed for group enjoyment. Its combination of delicious food, creative atmosphere, and unique market offerings make it a top choice for friends and family wanting to host memorable meetups in Raleigh.