When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
The Kitchen Table at Relish
Why The Kitchen Table at Relish is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Kitchen Table at Relish is a vibrant dining destination located in Midtown Raleigh, North Carolina, known for its unique blend of culinary innovation and interactive fun. This establishment serves as the sister restaurant to Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar, offering a menu focused on lighter Southern fare with a modern twist that appeals to a wide range of palates. Beyond just great food, The Kitchen Table stands out as Raleigh's first board game restaurant and bar, boasting an impressive collection of over 400 games. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails made from local distilleries, an excellent selection of craft beers, and local cold brew on tap, creating an inviting atmosphere for socializing and entertainment. The presence of knowledgeable "gametenders"—staff who assist patrons in selecting and learning games—enhances the experience, making it an ideal spot for groups of friends looking to combine good food, drinks, and engaging activities. Conveniently situated at 5629 Creedmoor Rd., this welcoming venue offers a perfect setting for casual meetups, date nights, or gathering with friends over shared interests in games and great Southern-inspired cuisine.
Here's what people think of The Kitchen Table at Relish
As of recent, The Kitchen Table at Relish holds a 4.7-star rating based on 321 reviews.
Customer reviews for The Kitchen Table at Relish reflect an overwhelmingly positive reception, with a strong 4.7-star rating from over 300 reviewers. Many guests praise the restaurant for its innovative concept that combines quality dining with an extensive board game collection, creating a unique and memorable experience. Positive reviews frequently highlight the friendly and helpful staff, especially the "gametenders" who are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm in guiding players through the games. The modern Southern menu with lighter fare also receives commendations for fresh, flavorful dishes that pair well with the craft cocktails and local beverages. Additionally, the ambiance is noted as warm and inviting, making it a great hangout spot for friends and family. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers on occasional wait times during busy periods and limited seating availability, which can impact the overall experience. A few reviewers mention that certain popular games may sometimes be unavailable due to demand. Despite these minor critiques, the general consensus remains highly favorable, praising The Kitchen Table as an excellent destination to enjoy delicious food and drinks intertwined with engaging entertainment. Overall, the reviews paint a picture of a creative and socially dynamic space that delivers on its promise of fun and flavor.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Laura
I LOVE this place. I'm new to Raleigh and The Kitchen Table has become my Cheers. The food is delicious and the staff are welcoming and attentive. They have every game imaginable and an outdoor seating area that welcomes dogs with bowls of water. I will say, if you go when it's busy, it can be quite loud, but that's because everyone is having a great time. I have yet to have a dish I didn't like. I'm a huge fan of their wings with jalapeño ranch, the burrito bowl is excellent and the tacos are tasty. So happy I found this place as I settle into my new life in NC!
Bill Tice
I have eaten here about five times now. Everything on the menu has been excellent, reasonably priced food and good portions. They are fairly creative on their menu, I had the goat cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, and it was outstanding. If I would ding them on anything it would be the size of their cocktails, my paper plane was tiny for $13. The staff has always been friendly and they have over 1000 games to play if you want to bring friends etc. The dessert options are a few, but well worth it, the beignets were outrageously good. I have gotten their short ribs on previous occasions, and I highly recommend as well
Katherine Tonnell
We loved coming here! We came early afternoon and were able to sit in the outdoor seating area, which was gorgeous! The food was incredible and the staff was so friendly! We really enjoyed the selection of games to play, but I wish we had come on the weekend when the game staff was there to help us on a game. I love that they even have board game staff! Very cool experience, definitely my favorite stop while in Raleigh!
Walker Thomas
Wow this was an awesome experience! Our server (can't remember name) was fantastic, the food was amazing! I got the Chicken and Waffles 100% recommend, wife got Monte Cristo also delicious. Jana was our Gamemaster and was so helpful with the games and rules. I probably talked with him for 30-40 min about different games and recommendations. Please go try this place and bring friends/family! The fox in the Forest and Hive are great 2 player games to try!
Mariss
Relish is one of my favorite area restaurants in the Crabtree-Glenwood Station neighborhood. I have never had a poor experience ever. I finally checked off the brunch experience at their sister cafe/bar, The Kitchen Table. Located conveniently next door to Relish, is KT. I read about the vintage board game experience and wanted to check out brunch for myself. A friend and I visited around noon and we were seated immediately by a nice young gentleman and comfortably inside at a booth towards the bar. I enjoy the vintage-country charm of this cafe. Our waitress arrived to greet us immediately and we decided on the Special Caramel Expresso Martini. These were made perfectly. We then decided on shrimp & grits and the montecristo for entrees. Our entrees came out very quickly. I asked that my waffle be cooked to a crisp and the cook delivered. I do not enjoy soggy waffles. I paired my dish with cheese grits. I felt the dishes were good but nothing blew me away. What I did enjoy the most here were the cocktails !!!!! We had to relocate to the bar due to the air conditioner leaking water over my seat and onto the booth from condensation. This was the best thing to happen to us. Zack is the bartender and he was such a wonderful host. He makes inspiring cocktails and is a mad scientist with his creations as well as a great conversationalist. I wanted to try Elijah Craig bourbon for the first time and he made an Apple Butter Bourbon fizz with delicious ginger, this was excellent!!!! We chatted about the Tepuy donuts that they serve on weekends from the famous Tepuy shop. I look forward to visiting for dinner and more of Zack's creative cocktails. We did not play any games this visit, but I intend to next visit and love that it's an option. The southern hospitality was much appreciated.
Laura
I LOVE this place. I'm new to Raleigh and The Kitchen Table has become my Cheers. The food is delicious and the staff are welcoming and attentive. They have every game imaginable and an outdoor seating area that welcomes dogs with bowls of water. I will say, if you go when it's busy, it can be quite loud, but that's because everyone is having a great time. I have yet to have a dish I didn't like. I'm a huge fan of their wings with jalapeño ranch, the burrito bowl is excellent and the tacos are tasty. So happy I found this place as I settle into my new life in NC!
Bill Tice
I have eaten here about five times now. Everything on the menu has been excellent, reasonably priced food and good portions. They are fairly creative on their menu, I had the goat cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, and it was outstanding. If I would ding them on anything it would be the size of their cocktails, my paper plane was tiny for $13. The staff has always been friendly and they have over 1000 games to play if you want to bring friends etc. The dessert options are a few, but well worth it, the beignets were outrageously good. I have gotten their short ribs on previous occasions, and I highly recommend as well
Katherine Tonnell
We loved coming here! We came early afternoon and were able to sit in the outdoor seating area, which was gorgeous! The food was incredible and the staff was so friendly! We really enjoyed the selection of games to play, but I wish we had come on the weekend when the game staff was there to help us on a game. I love that they even have board game staff! Very cool experience, definitely my favorite stop while in Raleigh!
Walker Thomas
Wow this was an awesome experience! Our server (can't remember name) was fantastic, the food was amazing! I got the Chicken and Waffles 100% recommend, wife got Monte Cristo also delicious. Jana was our Gamemaster and was so helpful with the games and rules. I probably talked with him for 30-40 min about different games and recommendations. Please go try this place and bring friends/family! The fox in the Forest and Hive are great 2 player games to try!
Mariss
Relish is one of my favorite area restaurants in the Crabtree-Glenwood Station neighborhood. I have never had a poor experience ever. I finally checked off the brunch experience at their sister cafe/bar, The Kitchen Table. Located conveniently next door to Relish, is KT. I read about the vintage board game experience and wanted to check out brunch for myself. A friend and I visited around noon and we were seated immediately by a nice young gentleman and comfortably inside at a booth towards the bar. I enjoy the vintage-country charm of this cafe. Our waitress arrived to greet us immediately and we decided on the Special Caramel Expresso Martini. These were made perfectly. We then decided on shrimp & grits and the montecristo for entrees. Our entrees came out very quickly. I asked that my waffle be cooked to a crisp and the cook delivered. I do not enjoy soggy waffles. I paired my dish with cheese grits. I felt the dishes were good but nothing blew me away. What I did enjoy the most here were the cocktails !!!!! We had to relocate to the bar due to the air conditioner leaking water over my seat and onto the booth from condensation. This was the best thing to happen to us. Zack is the bartender and he was such a wonderful host. He makes inspiring cocktails and is a mad scientist with his creations as well as a great conversationalist. I wanted to try Elijah Craig bourbon for the first time and he made an Apple Butter Bourbon fizz with delicious ginger, this was excellent!!!! We chatted about the Tepuy donuts that they serve on weekends from the famous Tepuy shop. I look forward to visiting for dinner and more of Zack's creative cocktails. We did not play any games this visit, but I intend to next visit and love that it's an option. The southern hospitality was much appreciated.
Mariss
Relish is one of my favorite area restaurants in the Crabtree-Glenwood Station neighborhood. I have never had a poor experience ever. I finally checked off the brunch experience at their sister cafe/bar, The Kitchen Table. Located conveniently next door to Relish, is KT. I read about the vintage board game experience and wanted to check out brunch for myself. A friend and I visited around noon and we were seated immediately by a nice young gentleman and comfortably inside at a booth towards the bar. I enjoy the vintage-country charm of this cafe. Our waitress arrived to greet us immediately and we decided on the Special Caramel Expresso Martini. These were made perfectly. We then decided on shrimp & grits and the montecristo for entrees. Our entrees came out very quickly. I asked that my waffle be cooked to a crisp and the cook delivered. I do not enjoy soggy waffles. I paired my dish with cheese grits. I felt the dishes were good but nothing blew me away. What I did enjoy the most here were the cocktails !!!!! We had to relocate to the bar due to the air conditioner leaking water over my seat and onto the booth from condensation. This was the best thing to happen to us. Zack is the bartender and he was such a wonderful host. He makes inspiring cocktails and is a mad scientist with his creations as well as a great conversationalist. I wanted to try Elijah Craig bourbon for the first time and he made an Apple Butter Bourbon fizz with delicious ginger, this was excellent!!!! We chatted about the Tepuy donuts that they serve on weekends from the famous Tepuy shop. I look forward to visiting for dinner and more of Zack's creative cocktails. We did not play any games this visit, but I intend to next visit and love that it's an option. The southern hospitality was much appreciated.
Laura
I LOVE this place. I'm new to Raleigh and The Kitchen Table has become my Cheers. The food is delicious and the staff are welcoming and attentive. They have every game imaginable and an outdoor seating area that welcomes dogs with bowls of water. I will say, if you go when it's busy, it can be quite loud, but that's because everyone is having a great time. I have yet to have a dish I didn't like. I'm a huge fan of their wings with jalapeño ranch, the burrito bowl is excellent and the tacos are tasty. So happy I found this place as I settle into my new life in NC!
Bill Tice
I have eaten here about five times now. Everything on the menu has been excellent, reasonably priced food and good portions. They are fairly creative on their menu, I had the goat cheese, grilled cheese sandwich, and it was outstanding. If I would ding them on anything it would be the size of their cocktails, my paper plane was tiny for $13. The staff has always been friendly and they have over 1000 games to play if you want to bring friends etc. The dessert options are a few, but well worth it, the beignets were outrageously good. I have gotten their short ribs on previous occasions, and I highly recommend as well
Katherine Tonnell
We loved coming here! We came early afternoon and were able to sit in the outdoor seating area, which was gorgeous! The food was incredible and the staff was so friendly! We really enjoyed the selection of games to play, but I wish we had come on the weekend when the game staff was there to help us on a game. I love that they even have board game staff! Very cool experience, definitely my favorite stop while in Raleigh!
Walker Thomas
Wow this was an awesome experience! Our server (can't remember name) was fantastic, the food was amazing! I got the Chicken and Waffles 100% recommend, wife got Monte Cristo also delicious. Jana was our Gamemaster and was so helpful with the games and rules. I probably talked with him for 30-40 min about different games and recommendations. Please go try this place and bring friends/family! The fox in the Forest and Hive are great 2 player games to try!
How to reach The Kitchen Table at Relish
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Why The Kitchen Table at Relish may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Kitchen Table at Relish with your friends?
If you're looking for a vibrant, fun, and interactive way to connect with friends or family over a meal, The Kitchen Table at Relish in Raleigh offers a unique experience that goes beyond just dining. This restaurant combines delicious food with the camaraderie of playing board games, making it an ideal destination for groups wanting to bond, laugh, and engage in friendly competition. With a solid 4.7-star rating from over 300 reviews, it clearly appeals to many who want a memorable and lively gathering spot. Beyond the food, the atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with attentive staff who add to the overall experience. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a weekend brunch, or an evening dinner, The Kitchen Table invites you to slow down and enjoy quality time with companions around good food and games. The blend of a social dining environment, a menu that caters to various tastes—including vegan-friendly options—and a curated selection of board games means that your group can customize their outing to fit everyone’s interests and moods. Friends, family, or colleagues will find it refreshing to be in a space designed explicitly for interaction, fun, and relaxation together—all at one cozy table.
What activities can you enjoy at The Kitchen Table at Relish that make it perfect for group meetups?
The standout feature of The Kitchen Table at Relish is its fusion of a restaurant with a board game café, creating a uniquely entertaining social experience tailored for groups. Guests can select from an impressive collection of board games to play together while enjoying their meals, making wait times fly by and conversations flow more naturally. This is perfect for groups who want to avoid the typical silence or distractions found in other dining settings; here, the games spark laughter, collaboration, and a little friendly rivalry. The restaurant employs knowledgeable “game tenders” who can recommend games based on your group’s size, interests, and experience level, ensuring that everyone from beginners to seasoned board gamers can feel comfortable and included. Having this kind of interactive entertainment right at your table encourages participation from all members of your group, making it easier to connect and create lasting memories. Moreover, the casual, engaging environment allows people to relax and enjoy a shared activity that keeps everyone involved throughout the meal, which is ideal when hosting friends or family, especially when some attendees may not know each other well or prefer engaging in social games.
How does the food and service enhance the group experience at The Kitchen Table at Relish?
The Kitchen Table at Relish offers a menu that complements the social gaming experience by providing a delicious variety of dishes that cater to different palates, including vegan and vegetarian options. This inclusivity means that everyone in the group can find something satisfying and that dietary preferences or restrictions won’t be an obstacle to enjoying the meal together. The food has been praised for its quality and taste, ranging from hearty entrees to shareable appetizers that fit well with the casual, communal vibe of the restaurant. Quick and efficient service is another important aspect, as it keeps the energy positive and allows your group to focus on enjoying their time rather than waiting long for meals or drinks. Although some reviews mention occasional service hiccups, the overall impression is of a team that strives to offer attentive and friendly customer care. This balance of tasty food and accommodating service ensures that your group’s meetup flows smoothly, with minimal distractions and maximum enjoyment, making it easier for everyone to focus on the fun and social interaction.
What makes The Kitchen Table at Relish's atmosphere and location ideal for hosting meetups?
Located in Raleigh, The Kitchen Table at Relish is situated in a convenient spot that invites locals and visitors alike to gather for social outings. The restaurant’s interior is thoughtfully designed to create a cozy and lively atmosphere that fosters connection and shared experiences. Warm lighting, communal tables, and comfortable seating arrangements promote an inclusive environment where groups can sit together easily and engage with one another. This setting contrasts nicely with many typical restaurant experiences that may feel too formal or isolating for larger groups or social activities. The ambiance balances the buzz of a popular hangout with the intimacy of a private gathering, making it easy for everyone in your party to feel part of the conversation and the fun. In addition, the restaurant’s commitment to being a board game hub naturally draws a crowd interested in social, interactive dining, which helps to set a positive and energetic tone for your meetup. Whether you are planning a casual get-together with friends, a family reunion, or a small celebratory event, The Kitchen Table at Relish provides a welcoming and inviting backdrop that encourages connection and enjoyment.
Why should you consider The Kitchen Table at Relish for different types of group occasions?
The Kitchen Table at Relish is versatile enough to accommodate a variety of social gatherings, making it an excellent option no matter the occasion. For casual meetups, its combination of food and games keeps the mood light and entertaining, reducing any potential awkwardness that sometimes accompanies group dinners. For family outings, the game selection provides a perfect way for different generations to bond, bridging age gaps through shared fun and teamwork. The venue also works well for celebrating special events such as birthdays or small parties, thanks to its lively atmosphere and accommodating staff who can help tailor the experience to your specific needs. Groups of coworkers or clubs looking for an informal team-building or socializing opportunity will appreciate the interactive vibe that encourages communication and collaboration. Because the restaurant encourages playful interaction at the table, it naturally facilitates deeper conversations and strengthens relationships, which is the core goal of any group meetup. Overall, its flexibility and spirit make it a standout choice for any group gathering looking for a memorable, enjoyable, and interactive outing.
How does The Kitchen Table at Relish cater to dietary preferences and food quality expectations?
One of the key factors that makes The Kitchen Table at Relish stand out is its menu that respects and embraces diverse dietary needs. The restaurant includes several vegan and vegetarian options, ensuring that groups with varied preferences can dine comfortably without compromises. This dedication to inclusive culinary offerings extends to the quality of ingredients and thoughtful preparation, aiming to deliver flavorful and satisfying meals that meet high standards. Diners have noted the freshness and richness of the food, with dishes thoughtfully crafted to complement the social dining style the venue promotes. Although some reviews mention occasional lapses in service or food temperature, the consistent 4.7-star rating underlines that, overall, patrons find the food enjoyable and well worth returning for. By fulfilling the expectations of both food lovers and those with specific dietary requirements, The Kitchen Table at Relish successfully enriches the shared dining experience, ensuring that everyone leaves the table happy and well-fed.
What additional social benefits does playing board games during the meal bring to your group?
Playing board games while dining at The Kitchen Table at Relish introduces an engaging social dynamic that enhances communication, teamwork, and friendly competition among your group. These activities provide natural conversation starters, reduce social awkwardness, and help participants get to know each other better in a relaxed and playful environment. The games encourage cooperation and strategizing, which can strengthen bonds among friends or family members and create a sense of shared achievement. For groups that are meeting after a long time or people who are meeting for the first time, board games offer a structured yet fun way to break the ice and build connections organically. Moreover, the presence of game experts on staff means your group can explore new games, learn quickly, and keep the fun going without confusion or frustration. This combination of eating and playing transforms a typical meal into a memorable event filled with laughter, engagement, and social interaction that lasts well beyond the dining experience itself.
How does the staff contribute to making group visits at The Kitchen Table memorable?
The staff at The Kitchen Table at Relish largely contributes to the positive and welcoming environment that makes group visits special. They don't just serve food and drinks—they actively enhance the gaming experience through their role as game tenders, helping guests pick out ideal games and explaining rules with enthusiasm and knowledge. Their attentiveness ensures groups receive prompt service so that everyone’s needs are met without disrupting the social flow. While isolated reviews mention some inconsistency in service quality, the general consensus praises the staff’s friendliness and willingness to engage with guests, which fosters a warm and inviting atmosphere. This personal attention helps a lot in making larger group visits run smoothly, from seating arrangements to accommodating special requests. The combination of their dual role as servers and gaming facilitators offers a unique level of engagement that elevates the overall social dining experience at the restaurant.
What makes The Kitchen Table at Relish a better choice than traditional restaurants for group meetups?
Traditional restaurants often focus solely on food, which can limit the interaction and entertainment options for groups, especially when the wait times for food or the ambient noise level inhibits easy conversation. The Kitchen Table at Relish breaks away from this mold by integrating interactive experiences into the dining environment. This fusion of great food with fun board games means that your gathering is equally about social connection as it is about eating. The playful setting encourages participation from all group members, reducing the social pressure to make conversation out of thin air. It also offers a unique experience that stands out from ordinary dining — your group can bond over shared game victories, discover new favorites, and enjoy the lively atmosphere together. Whether you're meeting with old friends, family, or coworkers, this restaurant provides a dynamic and memorable way to share quality time, which traditional dining venues often lack.
Why is The Kitchen Table at Relish well-rated and trusted by its customers?
The Kitchen Table at Relish’s strong rating of 4.7 from over 300 reviews reflects its consistent ability to deliver a combination of quality food, exceptional social ambiance, and engaging entertainment. Customers appreciate the concept of dining combined with board games, which is rare and fresh in the Raleigh dining scene. Reviewers highlight how the restaurant’s unique blend encourages lingering, laughing, and bonding, which positively influences repeat visits and recommendations. While no place is without occasional critiques—some mention service or food timing issues—the majority consensus emphasizes the fun, welcoming environment and enjoyable dining experience. This positive word-of-mouth and high rating indicate that people see The Kitchen Table at Relish as a reliable and enjoyable destination for group socializing. Its reputation as Raleigh’s first board game restaurant and bar adds to its appeal as a trusted spot to rally your friends for a fun, relaxing outing.
What practical tips can help your group make the most of a visit to The Kitchen Table at Relish?
To fully enjoy your group meetup at The Kitchen Table at Relish, consider planning ahead to accommodate their popularity, especially on weekends or holidays when the place can fill up quickly. Arriving early or making reservations, if available, will help minimize wait times. Take advantage of the game tenders’ expertise by asking for game suggestions suited to your group’s size and preferences, which can enhance the fun and avoid confusion. Sharing appetizers or smaller plates can maximize the social dining aspect by allowing everyone to taste different flavors while focusing on the games. Also, encourage your group to dive into the board game experience together—it’s the core of what makes the place special and will ensure a memorable, laughter-filled gathering. Finally, communicate any dietary needs ahead of time or upon arrival to ensure the kitchen can accommodate everyone comfortably. These simple steps will help ensure that your visit to The Kitchen Table at Relish is smooth, enjoyable, and perfectly tailored to your group’s interests.