When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Transfer Co. Food Hall
Why Transfer Co. Food Hall is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Transfer Co. Food Hall stands out as a premier destination in downtown Raleigh for friends and groups seeking a lively, diverse culinary experience. Housed in the historic Carolina Coach garage and shop, this expansive 43,000+ sq. ft. renovated warehouse blends historic charm with a modern food hall concept. It serves as a vibrant community hub where various food producers, makers, and restaurateurs come together to offer an array of choices under one roof. Located just steps from Fayetteville Street in Raleigh’s Olde East and Moore Square Arts District, the food hall is easily accessible and boasts free parking and facilities that accommodate people with disabilities. Transfer Co. Food Hall is a great spot for meetups, dates, or casual outings, as it provides an inviting atmosphere with diverse culinary options, ample seating, and a spacious dining hall. The venue’s mission to connect different communities through food gives it a warm, inclusive vibe, making it more than just a food court but a true gathering place in Raleigh’s downtown scene. With generous operating hours from early morning to late evening, it caters to a variety of schedules, suitable for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or late-night meals.
Here's what people think of Transfer Co. Food Hall
As of recent, Transfer Co. Food Hall holds a 4.6-star rating based on 2005 reviews.
Reviews consistently praise Transfer Co. Food Hall for its wide variety of food options, welcoming atmosphere, and convenient downtown location. Users appreciate the quality and diversity of the vendors, highlighting the mix of local craft foods and international cuisine that caters to many tastes. Positive reviews also often mention the spacious, clean environment and the overall vibe that makes it easy and enjoyable to meet up with friends or family. The ample seating, helpful staff, and good value for the food have also been noted positively. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on occasional crowding during peak times, which can make seating harder to find and sometimes slow service at busy stalls. A few reviewers have mentioned that parking, while free, can be limited on certain busy weekends or events. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall consensus remains strongly favorable. Reviewers appreciate the food hall's dedication to community engagement and variety, making it a beloved staple in Raleigh's food scene. The combination of enthusiastic praise and constructive feedback indicates a lively, popular place that continues to evolve and refine its offerings for visitors.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jenni
It's a great place for a casual lunch with close friend(s), especially when everyone wants different things. Everything tasted good, some were amazing and some decent. It really depends on which vendor you end up trying (or you can try a bit form everyone). Overall a very chatty busy atmosphere. One of the vendors sells a loaded fries that was absolutely amazing!
Clayton & Cindy Putnam
February 22 & 23, 2025 - My wife & I were in Raleigh for our daughter’s wedding . . . we decided to try the food court located at 500 East Davis Street. With 10 food vendors offering an eclectic selection, we highly recommend the Transfer Co. Food Hall ! Everyone’s happy with the diversity of food types, especially if in a group of friends or family 😃👍🏼👍🏼 Alimentary At the Left Bank - Italian deli, fresh meats, local cheeses, vegetables Bul Box -Asian noodles, proteins Chef Young Captain Cookie & The Milk Man - baked cookies, and sweets , plus ice cream treats Yatai - fresh sushi, ramon, quesadillas, Baja style tacos Mama Crows Burgers & Salads - yup 👍🏼 Che Empanadas - Argentina’s Empanadas Chhote’s Indian - Vindaloo, masala, naan 👍🏼 Bench Warmers Bagels - All the fixings 👍🏼 Burial Beer Co. - Craft beers on site 👍🏼👍🏼 Dank Burrito- Chef Clarke Merrell homemade salsa, pico, burritos, tacos, and bowls ( Food Truck winner -2014) 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 😃Fun Facts 👍🏼🍤 1925 - Carolina Coach ( Bus) Company 1926 to 1936 . . . Large Garage doing repairs on the busses 1930’s offer service to Fayetteville, Charlotte, and Norfolk, VA 1936 - Trailways merged with Carolina Coach Company 1939 - This garage abandoned, Carolina Trailways moved to South Blount Street 1945 to 1949 - Raleigh used building as maintenance vehicle shop 1950 to 1975 - Sanders Motor Company used location as sales room & repair shop for FORD cars & trucks 1975 to 1995 - City rented space to the Raleigh Rescue Mission J.W. Stone purchased property in 1980’s as a warehouse 2008 - Raleigh purchased building and surrounding property for future development 2019 - Several investors led by Jason Queen renovated & open the building as Transfer Co. Food Hall Wonderful place for lunch & dinner! I hear this is a large event space for rent !
J H
Transfer food hall is a great spot for tourist or for the college students near by. Well within walking distance from campus and even downtown. The food hall has plenty of choices from Vietnamese to Mexican to bagels to ramen. There is even a unique bar that serves cocktails in cute cups. Overall, the food is a bit pricey. The meals are about $16 or above. The bagel place is your cheapest bet.
Alexandra Navarre
Pros Clean, quick service Cons Very hot inside Cocktails from bar were undrinkable. They were not well balanced. My Pinky and the Brain just tasted like sour mix
Nancy Maldonado
Transfer Food Hall has a great open space inside and plus the outside to eat is lovely and welcoming. The variety of food options there is great and the sushi delicioso!
Jenni
It's a great place for a casual lunch with close friend(s), especially when everyone wants different things. Everything tasted good, some were amazing and some decent. It really depends on which vendor you end up trying (or you can try a bit form everyone). Overall a very chatty busy atmosphere. One of the vendors sells a loaded fries that was absolutely amazing!
Clayton & Cindy Putnam
February 22 & 23, 2025 - My wife & I were in Raleigh for our daughter’s wedding . . . we decided to try the food court located at 500 East Davis Street. With 10 food vendors offering an eclectic selection, we highly recommend the Transfer Co. Food Hall ! Everyone’s happy with the diversity of food types, especially if in a group of friends or family 😃👍🏼👍🏼 Alimentary At the Left Bank - Italian deli, fresh meats, local cheeses, vegetables Bul Box -Asian noodles, proteins Chef Young Captain Cookie & The Milk Man - baked cookies, and sweets , plus ice cream treats Yatai - fresh sushi, ramon, quesadillas, Baja style tacos Mama Crows Burgers & Salads - yup 👍🏼 Che Empanadas - Argentina’s Empanadas Chhote’s Indian - Vindaloo, masala, naan 👍🏼 Bench Warmers Bagels - All the fixings 👍🏼 Burial Beer Co. - Craft beers on site 👍🏼👍🏼 Dank Burrito- Chef Clarke Merrell homemade salsa, pico, burritos, tacos, and bowls ( Food Truck winner -2014) 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 😃Fun Facts 👍🏼🍤 1925 - Carolina Coach ( Bus) Company 1926 to 1936 . . . Large Garage doing repairs on the busses 1930’s offer service to Fayetteville, Charlotte, and Norfolk, VA 1936 - Trailways merged with Carolina Coach Company 1939 - This garage abandoned, Carolina Trailways moved to South Blount Street 1945 to 1949 - Raleigh used building as maintenance vehicle shop 1950 to 1975 - Sanders Motor Company used location as sales room & repair shop for FORD cars & trucks 1975 to 1995 - City rented space to the Raleigh Rescue Mission J.W. Stone purchased property in 1980’s as a warehouse 2008 - Raleigh purchased building and surrounding property for future development 2019 - Several investors led by Jason Queen renovated & open the building as Transfer Co. Food Hall Wonderful place for lunch & dinner! I hear this is a large event space for rent !
J H
Transfer food hall is a great spot for tourist or for the college students near by. Well within walking distance from campus and even downtown. The food hall has plenty of choices from Vietnamese to Mexican to bagels to ramen. There is even a unique bar that serves cocktails in cute cups. Overall, the food is a bit pricey. The meals are about $16 or above. The bagel place is your cheapest bet.
Alexandra Navarre
Pros Clean, quick service Cons Very hot inside Cocktails from bar were undrinkable. They were not well balanced. My Pinky and the Brain just tasted like sour mix
Nancy Maldonado
Transfer Food Hall has a great open space inside and plus the outside to eat is lovely and welcoming. The variety of food options there is great and the sushi delicioso!
Jenni
It's a great place for a casual lunch with close friend(s), especially when everyone wants different things. Everything tasted good, some were amazing and some decent. It really depends on which vendor you end up trying (or you can try a bit form everyone). Overall a very chatty busy atmosphere. One of the vendors sells a loaded fries that was absolutely amazing!
Clayton & Cindy Putnam
February 22 & 23, 2025 - My wife & I were in Raleigh for our daughter’s wedding . . . we decided to try the food court located at 500 East Davis Street. With 10 food vendors offering an eclectic selection, we highly recommend the Transfer Co. Food Hall ! Everyone’s happy with the diversity of food types, especially if in a group of friends or family 😃👍🏼👍🏼 Alimentary At the Left Bank - Italian deli, fresh meats, local cheeses, vegetables Bul Box -Asian noodles, proteins Chef Young Captain Cookie & The Milk Man - baked cookies, and sweets , plus ice cream treats Yatai - fresh sushi, ramon, quesadillas, Baja style tacos Mama Crows Burgers & Salads - yup 👍🏼 Che Empanadas - Argentina’s Empanadas Chhote’s Indian - Vindaloo, masala, naan 👍🏼 Bench Warmers Bagels - All the fixings 👍🏼 Burial Beer Co. - Craft beers on site 👍🏼👍🏼 Dank Burrito- Chef Clarke Merrell homemade salsa, pico, burritos, tacos, and bowls ( Food Truck winner -2014) 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 😃Fun Facts 👍🏼🍤 1925 - Carolina Coach ( Bus) Company 1926 to 1936 . . . Large Garage doing repairs on the busses 1930’s offer service to Fayetteville, Charlotte, and Norfolk, VA 1936 - Trailways merged with Carolina Coach Company 1939 - This garage abandoned, Carolina Trailways moved to South Blount Street 1945 to 1949 - Raleigh used building as maintenance vehicle shop 1950 to 1975 - Sanders Motor Company used location as sales room & repair shop for FORD cars & trucks 1975 to 1995 - City rented space to the Raleigh Rescue Mission J.W. Stone purchased property in 1980’s as a warehouse 2008 - Raleigh purchased building and surrounding property for future development 2019 - Several investors led by Jason Queen renovated & open the building as Transfer Co. Food Hall Wonderful place for lunch & dinner! I hear this is a large event space for rent !
J H
Transfer food hall is a great spot for tourist or for the college students near by. Well within walking distance from campus and even downtown. The food hall has plenty of choices from Vietnamese to Mexican to bagels to ramen. There is even a unique bar that serves cocktails in cute cups. Overall, the food is a bit pricey. The meals are about $16 or above. The bagel place is your cheapest bet.
Alexandra Navarre
Pros Clean, quick service Cons Very hot inside Cocktails from bar were undrinkable. They were not well balanced. My Pinky and the Brain just tasted like sour mix
Nancy Maldonado
Transfer Food Hall has a great open space inside and plus the outside to eat is lovely and welcoming. The variety of food options there is great and the sushi delicioso!
How to reach Transfer Co. Food Hall
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Why rally at Transfer Co. Food Hall with your friends?
If you're looking for a vibrant, welcoming spot to gather with friends or family, Transfer Co. Food Hall in downtown Raleigh stands out as an exceptional choice. This bustling food hall combines the warmth of a community gathering place with the excitement of diverse culinary experiences, offering something for every taste and preference. Whether it's a casual hangout, celebration, or simply catching up over great food and drinks, Transfer Co.’s inviting atmosphere encourages lively conversations and connections. Located in the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shops, the space itself fuses industrial charm with modern amenities, creating a laid-back yet stylish environment that harmonizes well with the communal spirit. With a top-rated customer satisfaction reflected in a 4.6 rating from over 2,000 reviews, it’s clear that locals and visitors alike find this venue ideal for meetups. Add to this its central location steps away from Fayetteville Street and the Capital Area Greenway, and plenty of on-site parking, and it quickly becomes obvious why it’s a preferred spot to rally your group. Transfer Co. isn’t just about food – it’s about sharing moments and making memories together in a genuine downtown Raleigh hub.
What makes Transfer Co. Food Hall perfect for a group meetup?
At Transfer Co. Food Hall, the large, open layout offers both ample seating and a lively communal vibe that fuels social interactions. Unlike traditional restaurants where seating can be tight or reservation-based, Transfer Co. provides flexible seating options including long community tables, cozy corners, and bar seating — catering exactly to groups of all sizes. This open concept creates a fluid, relaxed setting where everyone can mingle, split off into smaller conversations, or come together for shared conversations, eliminating the constraints that typical eateries impose on social gatherings. Furthermore, the marketplace style means each person can pick exactly what suits their palate from a rotating roster of over 20 curated vendors, ranging from artisanal coffee to bold ethnic flavors, artisanal pizza, craft cocktails, and decadent desserts. This diversity ensures that dietary preferences or adventurous appetites won't be an issue when meeting as a group. Additionally, the soundscape of lively chatter, music, and the bustle of food preparation underpins a festive ambiance, making it feel like a communal party rather than just a meal. Transfer Co. essentially turns dining into an event, giving your meetup a unique, vibrant character that guests will remember fondly.
What activities does Transfer Co. Food Hall offer for groups?
Transfer Co. Food Hall is not just a place to eat but a holistic experience with activities that cater to group entertainment and relaxation around food culture. One of the highlights is its event hosting capabilities; the adjacent Transfer Co. Ballroom serves as an elegant gathering spot for larger celebrations like birthday parties, wedding receptions, and corporate events, providing a private space with sophisticated amenities for groups wanting a dedicated venue. For more casual group fun, the food hall regularly features live music, pop-up markets, and themed food festivals which your group can participate in for an extra dash of entertainment. Beyond the events, the hall encourages exploration through vendor showcases and tasting flights, allowing groups to embark on culinary journeys together, sampling small plates and sharing new favorites. For those who enjoy spirits, the food hall also offers expertly crafted cocktails and local brews, making it ideal for toasts and casual clinking glasses. Finally, its central location near downtown Raleigh’s cultural district means you can easily combine a visit to Transfer Co. with nearby parks, galleries, or after-dinner drinks, making the meetup a full-day outing if desired.
Why is the location of Transfer Co. Food Hall ideal for meetups?
Strategically situated in the lively Moore Square Arts District, the location of Transfer Co. Food Hall is a major factor in its popularity for social gatherings. Just a few steps from downtown Raleigh’s Fayetteville Street, it’s incredibly accessible by foot, car, or public transit, helping friends from various parts of the city to converge effortlessly. The neighborhood itself is a cultural hub with public art, museums, and green spaces nearby, offering meetups a rich, walkable environment before or after dining. On-site parking simplifies logistics, a major plus for group events where coordinating rides and parking can be a hassle. The historic building adds charm and a story to the meetup backdrop, making the experience feel more distinctive and authentic than a typical commercial mall or food court. Moreover, having a centralized meeting spot in a vibrant district means that groups can easily extend their time together into adjacent bars, theaters, or coffee shops if the night calls for it, ensuring that your gathering can evolve organically in a dynamic neighborhood setting.
How does the variety of food vendors enhance the group experience?
One of Transfer Co. Food Hall’s biggest draws is its ever-changing collective of food vendors that serve an expansive range of cuisines and specialties. This variety is essential for groups because it guarantees everyone will find something they love without compromise. From handcrafted sandwiches and gourmet pizzas to vegan and gluten-free options, the choices accommodate diverse diets and cravings. Sharing small plates from multiple vendors encourages interaction, discovery, and conversation as groups compare favorites and swap bites. This marketplace model also caters to different paces, allowing some in the group to grab quick bites while others sit back and enjoy a leisurely meal and drinks. Because Transfer Co. supports local producers and chefs, guests also benefit from fresh, high-quality ingredients that often highlight regional flavors, adding a unique touch of place to every meal. The availability of craft cocktails, local beers, and specialty coffee makes the meal even more enjoyable and sociable, turning food into a centerpiece around which group members can bond and celebrate.
What facilities and amenities support hosting large groups at Transfer Co.?
Hosting a large group at Transfer Co. Food Hall is effortless thanks to its well-thought-out facilities and supportive amenities. The expansive indoor space easily accommodates groups without crowding, and the combination of communal and private seating caters to different group dynamics—from intimate friend circles to larger family reunions or work outings. The dedicated Transfer Co. Ballroom provides a versatile venue equipped for private events, featuring modern AV equipment, flexible layouts, and professional event planning support to customize any gathering. This means groups can plan celebrations with everything from catered meals to entertainment and décor under one roof. Additionally, ample restrooms and disability access ensure comfort for all attendees. On-site parking and easy access to public transit minimize logistical challenges often associated with group meetups. Wi-Fi availability and charging stations also allow groups to remain connected and share their experiences instantly on social media, enhancing the event’s reach and enjoyment. Overall, these amenities create a seamless, welcoming environment that encourages guests to linger, enjoy, and make the most of their time together.
How does Transfer Co. Food Hall promote community and connection?
At its core, Transfer Co. Food Hall is designed around the idea that food is a powerful connector of people and cultures. It acts as more than just a dining destination by fostering an inclusive space where different communities converge to share stories, tastes, and experiences. The communal seating encourages strangers and friends alike to strike up conversations, while the programming of live events and cultural festivals highlights local art, music, and culinary traditions—building bridges across diverse groups. The supportive vendor ecosystem promotes local entrepreneurs and artisans, which adds an authentic sense of community ownership and pride. This atmosphere makes hosting a meetup here feel meaningful, as you're not just gathering with friends but participating in a larger tapestry that celebrates collaboration and unity. Such an environment naturally nurtures a positive, energetic vibe that’s ideal for creating lasting memories and deepening relationships through the shared enjoyment of food and culture.
What types of events can be celebrated at Transfer Co. Food Hall?
Transfer Co. Food Hall is incredibly versatile and can accommodate a wide range of events for groups looking to celebrate together. Popular occasions include birthday parties, wedding receptions, anniversary dinners, family reunions, and corporate gatherings, all of which benefit from the large and adaptable space. The Ballroom is perfect for formal or semi-formal events, offering professional catering options and event staff to ensure every detail runs smoothly. For more casual occasions, the food hall’s open market environment is ideal for festive meetups like holiday parties, team outings, or casual friend reunions, mixing delicious food with lively ambiance. The space also supports community-focused events such as pop-up art shows, tasting sessions, and live music, allowing groups to enjoy entertainment alongside their meal. Its flexibility means any group—whether small or large, formal or laid-back—can find a suitable option to celebrate in style and comfort at Transfer Co.
How can dining at Transfer Co. Food Hall enrich the social experience?
Dining at Transfer Co. Food Hall goes beyond just eating—it enhances your social experience by turning meals into interactive, shared adventures. The food hall’s marketplace setup encourages groups to explore different vendors, ordering a variety of dishes and sharing plates, which creates a communal atmosphere that sparks conversation and discovery. It allows friends to cater to individual tastes while remaining connected at the same table, accommodating dietary restrictions or adventurous eating with ease. The casual, open environment means people can move around, chat at the bar, or gather at larger tables, making the flow of social interaction more dynamic and natural. The presence of quality local beers, cocktails, and coffee further elevates the experience, as drinks often serve as conversation starters and relaxation aids. All these elements combine to transform a simple meal into a rich, engaging social event that fosters closeness, laughter, and memorable moments.
What should new visitors expect when they arrive at Transfer Co. Food Hall?
First-time visitors to Transfer Co. Food Hall can expect a spacious, lively atmosphere that buzzes with energy and welcoming friendliness. Upon arrival, you'll be impressed by the thoughtful design that highlights the building’s historic character while providing a modern, clean environment. Guests are greeted by a variety of vendor stalls, each showcasing unique, high-quality food and drink options with friendly staff ready to share their specialties. The seating area offers plenty of room to relax, with long communal tables inviting mingling and conversation. You’ll notice the mix of locals and visitors, all enjoying the diverse flavors and vibrant ambiance. Since the venue is a popular meeting spot, especially on weekends and evenings, plan for some buzz and activity, but never the chaos of overcrowding. With on-site parking and easy access from downtown, it’s hassle-free to get there and settle in for a fun, flavorful outing with friends or family.
What makes Transfer Co. Food Hall a standout in the Raleigh dining scene?
Transfer Co. Food Hall distinguishes itself in Raleigh’s dining scene through its unique combination of historic charm, culinary diversity, and community focus. Unlike standalone restaurants, it functions as a dynamic market and social hub that supports local food artisans and entrepreneurs, fostering a sense of local pride and economic vitality. The scale of the venue — over 50,000 square feet — allows for a wide variety of vendors, events, and seating choices, catering to diverse tastes and group sizes. Its commitment to fresh, quality ingredients and constantly evolving vendor lineup keeps the experience fresh and exciting for repeat visitors. Transfer Co. also shines as a community space, hosting regular cultural events, live performances, and public gatherings that enrich downtown Raleigh's social fabric. This blend of food, culture, and social engagement makes it not just a place to eat, but a destination where people come to connect, celebrate, and experience the best of Raleigh’s culinary and creative spirit.