When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Seasons 52
Why Seasons 52 is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Seasons 52 stands out as a compelling destination for friends to gather and enjoy a meal in a casually sophisticated atmosphere. Established in 2003 and owned by Darden Restaurants, this American restaurant chain prioritizes fresh, seasonal ingredients that promise naturally lighter and flavorful menu options. With 44 locations across the United States as of 2023, Seasons 52 offers a unique concept where the menu changes quarterly to reflect the best ingredients each season has to offer. This approach ensures that every visit delivers fresh tastes, such as cherries and figs in the summer or pumpkin and mushrooms in the fall, aligning with what is freshest and in season. Beyond the food, the restaurant boasts a distinguished wine bar curated by an advanced sommelier who personally selects and rotates wine options by visiting vineyards, enhancing the dining experience with carefully paired selections including wine flights. For social occasions, the restaurant’s ambiance balances sophistication with a relaxed vibe, offering quiet buzz and attentive service, which makes it an ideal spot for both casual meetups and special celebrations. Additionally, Seasons 52 caters to diverse dietary preferences by providing gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, along with dishes under 600 calories, supporting health-conscious diners. Private dining options with additional amenities further facilitate group gatherings and events.
Here's what people think of Seasons 52
As of recent, Seasons 52 holds a 4.6-star rating based on 2363 reviews.
Customer reviews of Seasons 52 consistently praise the restaurant for its blend of sophisticated ambiance and high-quality fresh food. Many guests highlight the beautifully presented, flavorful seasonal dishes that impressingly balance taste with health-conscious preparation, describing the food as a "feast for the eyes" as well as the palate. The service is frequently commended for being attentive and knowledgeable, with servers often helping diners navigate the varied menu effectively, enhancing the overall experience. Reviewers also appreciate the calm, sophisticated atmosphere that provides a pleasant backdrop for conversation, making it an excellent spot to unwind or celebrate special moments. Positive feedback often underscores the diverse and well-curated wine list, which complements the diverse menu and adds a refined touch to dining. On the other hand, some negative reviews occasionally mention aspects such as pricing or wait times, suggesting that for some guests the upscale experience might come at a premium cost or with longer service intervals during busy hours. A small number of critiques note that menu choices can be limited by sensitivity to seasonal availability or dietary restrictions. Overall, the review consensus affirms that for those seeking a fresh, seasonally inspired menu paired with a robust wine selection and a polished yet relaxed ambiance, Seasons 52 delivers a memorable dining experience worthy of repeat visits.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Nicholas Young
Great place to go if you are at Crabtree getting your shopping on and desire a healthier option of good food! First of all the Chilean sea bass was outstanding! this is a dish that can more times than not , comes out rather fishy if not prepared and cooked right. These guys did a great job and it was delicious 5X🤘🏼! the street corn skillet was pretty dang good as well. Only disappointment I found was the shrimp and grits. now take into consideration I've had this dish in some pretty phenomenal places and I may be comparing it to flavors more to my personal liking. The desert shots were good , give em extra credit for the presentation ‼️ our servers were very good at their job. I'd say give em a try if you haven't, it's surely worth it.
Andy Tunatin
Stopped in for a dinner visit in June, 2025. We had staggered arrivals with our reservation and the hostess had zero trouble keeping our party together. Rosa was our assigned server and she hopped right to the drink and appetizer order. I am going to keep this review simple since the genre of the evening was “simple”. The drinks were simply exceptional. The service was simply exceptional. The food quality, presentation, portion size simply exceptional. The pace of the meal service was simply exceptional. The desert was simple yet… you guessed it, “exceptional”. If the bill was triple what it was I would’ve harped on what a great value for the money this restaurant is… as it was the pricing was beyond reasonable for the quality delivered. I travel the planet in search of exceptional but this venue was simply one of the most exceptional places we have ever eaten at. Thank you to Rosa and her service team there, as well as Zach who stopped by our table to get an in person run down on his simply exceptional restaurant. Their effort is evident in the end result! If you have the opportunity to enjoy this fantastic venue I would highly recommend you take it!
Keri Banegas
First time here and the ambience is fantastic. Very rustic/woodsy with high top booths so you have plenty of quiet privacy. The food was pretty on point! We had the shrimp and grits (which was pretty standard) and the gnocchi. I'm so used to gnocchi from Italian places offering red sauce/vodka sauce, etc., so it was nice to have a basil pesto flavor with roasted tomatoes for a change. The lobster bisque was also fairly standard (Brio is still the penultimate) but the truffled risotto was deliciously creamy! I'd love to try the halibut or sea bass next time. Will definitely return for a nice date night.
Rene Vanek
I have enjoyed going to Season’s 52 over the years, the service is always excellent. The restaurant is always very clean and staff are friendly. They have a huge selection of wine and beer if that is your thing! I love the lamb and steak dishes. Occasionally food will be a little cold, but overall we keep coming back! Little desserts are cute and yummy!
Diego
Great place for dinner.. the food was delicious and our group enjoyed their plates as well. Service was excellent and it was nice and quiet to have a convo. Decor is nice.. not a fan of dark places but it’s clean.
Nicholas Young
Great place to go if you are at Crabtree getting your shopping on and desire a healthier option of good food! First of all the Chilean sea bass was outstanding! this is a dish that can more times than not , comes out rather fishy if not prepared and cooked right. These guys did a great job and it was delicious 5X🤘🏼! the street corn skillet was pretty dang good as well. Only disappointment I found was the shrimp and grits. now take into consideration I've had this dish in some pretty phenomenal places and I may be comparing it to flavors more to my personal liking. The desert shots were good , give em extra credit for the presentation ‼️ our servers were very good at their job. I'd say give em a try if you haven't, it's surely worth it.
Andy Tunatin
Stopped in for a dinner visit in June, 2025. We had staggered arrivals with our reservation and the hostess had zero trouble keeping our party together. Rosa was our assigned server and she hopped right to the drink and appetizer order. I am going to keep this review simple since the genre of the evening was “simple”. The drinks were simply exceptional. The service was simply exceptional. The food quality, presentation, portion size simply exceptional. The pace of the meal service was simply exceptional. The desert was simple yet… you guessed it, “exceptional”. If the bill was triple what it was I would’ve harped on what a great value for the money this restaurant is… as it was the pricing was beyond reasonable for the quality delivered. I travel the planet in search of exceptional but this venue was simply one of the most exceptional places we have ever eaten at. Thank you to Rosa and her service team there, as well as Zach who stopped by our table to get an in person run down on his simply exceptional restaurant. Their effort is evident in the end result! If you have the opportunity to enjoy this fantastic venue I would highly recommend you take it!
Keri Banegas
First time here and the ambience is fantastic. Very rustic/woodsy with high top booths so you have plenty of quiet privacy. The food was pretty on point! We had the shrimp and grits (which was pretty standard) and the gnocchi. I'm so used to gnocchi from Italian places offering red sauce/vodka sauce, etc., so it was nice to have a basil pesto flavor with roasted tomatoes for a change. The lobster bisque was also fairly standard (Brio is still the penultimate) but the truffled risotto was deliciously creamy! I'd love to try the halibut or sea bass next time. Will definitely return for a nice date night.
Rene Vanek
I have enjoyed going to Season’s 52 over the years, the service is always excellent. The restaurant is always very clean and staff are friendly. They have a huge selection of wine and beer if that is your thing! I love the lamb and steak dishes. Occasionally food will be a little cold, but overall we keep coming back! Little desserts are cute and yummy!
Diego
Great place for dinner.. the food was delicious and our group enjoyed their plates as well. Service was excellent and it was nice and quiet to have a convo. Decor is nice.. not a fan of dark places but it’s clean.
How to reach Seasons 52
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Website: None
Why Seasons 52 may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Seasons 52 with your friends?
Gathering friends or family at Seasons 52 is an ideal choice when you want to combine quality time with a dining experience that is both indulgent and health-conscious. This restaurant chain is celebrated for its casually sophisticated atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between upscale and approachable, making everyone feel welcome. What sets Seasons 52 apart is its commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients that ensure every dish bursts with flavor without being heavy or overly processed. The entire menu features items under 600 calories, offering healthy options that don’t compromise on taste, which means no one needs to worry about dietary restrictions or preferences when choosing what to eat together. The thoughtfully curated wine list, handpicked by an advanced sommelier, elevates the experience with selections that change seasonally to complement the food. Hosting a get-together here means enjoying a stylish environment, impeccable service, and a menu that continuously surprises with seasonal variety, making every visit unique. This dynamic combination makes Seasons 52 not just a restaurant but a destination for memorable social moments with your closest friends or family.
What activities does Seasons 52 offer for group meetups?
Seasons 52 provides a variety of activities that go beyond food to make group gatherings lively and engaging. First, the restaurant's wine bar is a focal point for wine enthusiasts and casual sippers alike. Here, guests can partake in curated wine flights, tasting three distinct wines in a single sitting—this makes it perfect for groups to explore new flavors together and spark lively conversations. The ambiance in the wine bar area is often enhanced with live piano music during evenings, creating a relaxed, elegant vibe. For those looking to enjoy a more interactive experience, the seasonal cocktail menu features creative mixology, such as a cocktail with strawberry-infused organic vodka and fresh basil, which offers unique tastes to delight any palate. The attentive and knowledgeable staff can assist in pairing drinks with menu items, making drinks tasting a social activity rather than just a meal supplement. Additionally, the restaurant offers happy hour specials Monday through Friday, with small plates priced attractively, encouraging groups to share dishes and sample a wider variety of flavors while enjoying great deals. Whether it’s a casual after-work meetup or a celebratory gathering, these features create a fun and convivial atmosphere ideal for groups.
Why is Seasons 52 perfect for hosting group events or private dining?
Seasons 52 is an excellent venue for private group events thanks to its dedicated private dining options designed to accommodate varying group sizes and needs. The private dining rooms offer a more intimate setting with options for pre-set menus that take the stress out of ordering for large groups. This means hosts can offer a coordinated dining experience with dishes thoughtfully paired to ensure everyone enjoys the seasonal fresh menu. The private spaces come equipped with AV technology and internet access, making them suitable for business meetings, presentations, or celebratory occasions where multimedia needs arise. Compared to typical chain restaurants, Seasons 52 stands out by combining sophistication and functionality in their private rooms, offering closer attention from servers to tailor service to your group’s preferences. This personalized experience ensures your gathering feels customized and special. The ambiance throughout the restaurant, characterized by modern wood tones and natural decor elements, supports a warm, inviting environment conducive to socializing and celebration. These facilities, combined with the fresh, seasonal culinary experience, make it a smart and stylish choice for group events of all types.
What makes the food and drink menu at Seasons 52 appealing to diverse groups?
The Seasons 52 menu is expertly crafted to cater to a broad range of dietary needs and tastes, making it an inclusive choice for group dining. Every dish on the menu clocks in under 600 calories, which appeals to health-conscious diners seeking guilt-free indulgence. This commitment to lighter fare does not sacrifice flavor; rather, it highlights freshness and natural ingredients sourced seasonally. The menu transitions four times a year, so groups can always look forward to new, exciting options that reflect the best of each season’s bounty—from spring’s fresh figs and cherries to autumn’s pumpkin and mushrooms, and winter’s stone crab dishes. The restaurant provides a wide selection of gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, ensuring that guests with different dietary preferences feel catered to without needing separate accommodations. The wine list, overseen by a master sommelier, is regularly updated, with wines chosen from exclusive vineyards to complement the evolving food menu. Guests can also enjoy seasonal cocktails and innovative dessert shots that are flavorful while being lighter than traditional desserts, making it easier for groups to end a meal on a delightful note without feeling overstuffed.
How does the ambiance contribute to a great group meetup experience?
The atmosphere at Seasons 52 is created with intentional design elements that make group visits comfortable and memorable. The decor features warm wood tones, large indoor plants, and understated, elegant finishes that create a calm yet stylish environment suitable for conversation and relaxation. Unlike more casual chain restaurants, Seasons 52 exudes an air of sophistication without feeling pretentious, making it accessible for gatherings ranging from casual catch-ups to special celebrations. The restaurant’s layout offers a choice of seating—from cozy booths that encourage intimate conversations to open dining spaces that can host larger groups comfortably. In the evening, the wine bar area comes alive with live piano music, adding a touch of class and an aural backdrop that enhances the social experience without overpowering conversation. Service here reinforces the atmosphere; staff members are known for their attentiveness and professionalism, often providing personalized touches such as offering their business cards, which speaks to the level of care given to guests. The combination of tasteful decor, considerate service, and soothing music results in a refined yet approachable setting perfect for any social occasion.
What are the advantages of dining at Seasons 52 compared to other restaurants for a meetup?
Choosing Seasons 52 for your group meetup means gaining access to several advantages that set it apart from typical dining options. Firstly, its focus on seasonally rotating, fresh ingredients ensures that every meal feels special and tailored to the moment, reducing menu fatigue for repeat visitors. Secondly, the calorie-conscious approach to cuisine allows health-conscious diners to enjoy diverse dishes without concern, broadening appeal across age groups and lifestyles. The expertly curated wine list and creative cocktails further enhance the dining experience by offering well-paired drink options that elevate the meal and encourage conversation. Thirdly, the availability of private dining rooms equipped with modern amenities means that groups can customize their environment, whether for lively celebrations or private business meetings, with professional service that anticipates needs. Lastly, the balance of a modern, sophisticated ambiance combined with accessible, friendly service encourages relaxation and enjoyment, unlike some formal restaurants that might feel stiff or unwelcoming for casual gatherings. These factors collectively make Seasons 52 a compelling choice for anyone looking to bring friends or family together in a place that feels both special and comfortable.