When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Wilson's Eatery
Why Wilson's Eatery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Wilson's Eatery, located in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a vibrant casual restaurant that offers a welcoming space for friends and family to gather and enjoy fresh, Southern-inspired dishes alongside craft beers. The eatery prides itself on its locally sourced and scratch-made menu featuring sandwiches, flatbreads, and salads, all crafted daily with fresh ingredients that highlight Southern flavors and the culture of Raleigh. The venue features a comfortable warehouse-style interior, an inviting outdoor deck, and a spacious Beer Garden shared with its sister company, Lynnwood Brewing Concern, making it ideal for socializing in various settings. In addition to the delicious food, patrons can enjoy an extensive selection of freshly brewed local beers, house-made sodas, and creative craft cocktails made with North Carolina distillery spirits. The eatery has a dog-friendly atmosphere, inspired by its namesake yellow lab, Wilson, with a commitment to supporting local animal rescues by donating a portion of food sales to animal causes. The combination of fresh, quality food, specialty drinks, and a friendly, casual environment makes Wilson's Eatery a perfect venue to meet up with friends and enjoy the local Raleigh food and beer scene.
Here's what people think of Wilson's Eatery
As of recent, Wilson's Eatery holds a 4.6-star rating based on 795 reviews.
Customer reviews of Wilson's Eatery consistently highlight the freshness and quality of the locally sourced food and the strong connection to Southern culinary traditions. Positive reviewers frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, comfortable and plentiful seating options both indoors and outdoors, and the excellent pairing of the menu offerings with the impressive selection of craft beers brewed by Lynnwood Brewing Concern. Many reviewers mention signature dishes such as the double smashed cheeseburger with a grilled brioche bun, emphasizing the freshness and flavorful preparation. The outdoor seating and Beer Garden are also applauded for creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere to gather with friends. However, some negative feedback touches on sporadic consistency in food preparation or service delays during peak times, as well as limited parking in the surrounding area. Despite these minor issues, the overall consensus remains positive, with patrons appreciating the quality ingredients, local focus, and welcoming environment. Wilson's Eatery's strong community ties, including donations to animal rescues, add an extra layer of goodwill that customers value. In conclusion, reviews reflect that Wilson's Eatery successfully balances great food, a robust beer selection, and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of visitors seeking a memorable dining and social experience in Raleigh.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Oleg Z
Came for lunch. Great selection of beers. Order inside and pick up. I like the food. Fries are great. Since fries dont come with burger it add up. Burger fries and beer plus tips came out $30. Little price. Other than thats it's awesome. Plenty of seating outside. Validate parking is free.
Shelly Brett
What a fun spot for lunch. Sat on the big porch they have (over half was shaded!), portions were large for selection was nice. Took the pimento cheese and pork rinds with us and ate as a snack for cpl days after. Very very good
Clayton & Cindy Putnam
February 21, 2025 - Great Combo at Dock 1053 . . . Amazing fresh lunch at Wilson’s Eatery & Lynnwood Brewing Concern ( LBC) with award winning BEERS 🍺 😃👍🏼 While in Raleigh for my daughter’s wedding, we love to explore the area for good food & adventures! Dock 1053 is a renovated warehouse & train stop from 1955. . . built by the Atlantic & Pacific Tea Company. Now this facility holds 8 new businesses! Owner Ted Dwyer started Lynnwood Brewing Concern in 2013, this 2nd location at Dock 1053 opened in 2015. Dwyer then established Wilson’s Eatery in 2018, which shares a beer garden between the symbiotic businesses! Great idea! 🍻👍🏼😃 My wife, her sister, and I stopped in for lunch ! As we approached the front counter to order food. . . I asked why the name Wilson’s? The gentleman pointed to the dog in the photo on the wall, a beautiful white Lab named Wilson ! Told Wilson is/was the family’s loving and kind pet! ❤️ Works for me. My wife ordered the Italian sandwich . . . Ham, pepperoni, salami, mozzarella cheese, tomato, lettuce, pesto aioli, on sour dough bread. Her sister ordered the Frickles . . . Fried pickles, guacamole, on tortilla chips. I ordered their famous BBQ Pulled Pork sandwich . . . Braised pulled pork, w/ Dock slaw, pickled onions, Eastern NC BBQ sauce, on a brioche bun ! We shared a bite of each together, wonderfully zesty , great flavor combinations , especially my pulled pork sandwich with the splash of vinegar bbq sauce and pickled onions! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼 Oh, I also ordered their LBC flight of 4 beers ! 🍺 (Big selection of beers) *Oatmeal Stout - 5.5% dark chocolate & caramel . . . robust & rich ! 😃 *Tangerine Mimosa Sour - 5.5% light 😃 *Bad Leroy Bro - 5% Caramel & toffee 👍🏼😃 *Back That Razz Up - 5% wheat raspberry 👍🏼😃 I enjoyed each of those LBC beers, very different styles of beer. . . Must return for another flight sampling , work thru the list! Great lunch stop, as spring approaches. I bet in the warmer weather their Beer garden is packed with beer enthusiasts! 🍻😃👍🏼 Note: The whole parking lot at Dock 1053 is privately owned, a parking fee is charged! Hey good news. . . Take your parking ticket into the business you frequent, your ticket will be “ validated” ! ( no charge) 😃👍🏼
Rhonnie Mapp
The restaurant is rustic and cute. I love the outdoor patios. It’s kind of hard to find parking if it’s during busy hours. We got the double cheeseburgers. To me they were just basic, nothing special but my husband loved it. The fries were standard. My husband also got the pretzel and beer cheese, he said it was good. I got their homemade cherry cola soda, it was ok. They also don’t have a big selection of food on their menu.
Monikalee.photograhy
We always love a visit to Wilson’s !! A really great menu, full bar, excellent outdoor and indoor seating along with a family atmosphere and pretty aesthetic !! Just great food and fun here … !!
How to reach Wilson's Eatery
None
Website: None
Why Wilson's Eatery may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Wilson’s Eatery stands out as an exceptional gathering spot for friends looking to enjoy great food, quality drinks, and a lively yet casual atmosphere. Nestled in a unique warehouse setting in Raleigh, North Carolina, this venue offers more than just a meal – it provides an experience. Friends can come together and savor locally sourced, Southern-inspired dishes crafted daily with fresh ingredients, complemented by craft beers brewed right next door at Lynnwood Brewing Concern. The inviting, informal vibe allows groups to relax indoors against an industrial-chic backdrop with polished concrete floors and sturdy wood and metal furnishings, or outdoors in the bright and spacious Beer Garden. This environment naturally invites conversation and laughter, aided by Wilson’s friendly and helpful staff who make everyone feel welcome. Whether grabbing a gourmet sandwich, a creatively topped flatbread, or a refreshing craft cocktail, Wilson’s Eatery manages to strike a perfect balance between quality food and an easygoing social atmosphere. For those who value good company, good food, and good drink, Wilson’s Eatery is a natural rallying point that promises a memorable experience with friends.
What kinds of activities are perfect for groups at Wilson’s Eatery?
Wilson’s Eatery caters wonderfully to groups looking to enjoy a shared experience facilitated by the food, drink, and ambiance. Its large Beer Garden, shared with Lynnwood Brewing Concern, is perfect for socializing and casual partying, making it an ideal space for laid-back meetups or celebrations. Groups can enjoy sampling various craft beers together, with options freshly brewed on site, elevating the communal aspect of a night out. The eatery’s menu is crafted for sharing, featuring gourmet sandwiches, flatbreads, and salads that offer diverse flavors appealing to many tastes, including gluten-free options, which broadens the inclusivity of the group. The outdoor seating is bright, comfortable, and spacious, allowing for lively conversations without feeling cramped. Beyond just dining, Wilson’s Eatery encourages a self-service dynamic for condiments and utensils, letting groups serve themselves at their own pace and stay connected rather than interrupting the flow with constant server trips. Whether it’s a casual lunch, a midweek beer break, or a weekend gathering, the layout and offerings at Wilson’s support easy-going, interactive group activities.
Why is Wilson’s Eatery’s beer selection a highlight for meetups?
One of the major draws for Wilson’s Eatery is its exceptional beer selection, especially for those who appreciate craft brews. The eatery is sister to Lynnwood Brewing Concern, meaning it benefits from fresh, in-house brews that have received high praise. This proximity between food and brewery allows for uniquely paired experiences where the fresh ingredients and Southern-inspired flavors in the dishes complement the award-winning beers perfectly. For groups of friends, tasting flights or sharing different styles of craft beers can become a fun, engaging activity that facilitates discussion and exploration of tastes. The variety also caters to different preferences, from lighter options to richer, hoppier brews, ensuring everyone in the group finds something they enjoy. The central Beer Garden further enhances this experience, providing a casual and vibrant atmosphere to enjoy drinks together in the fresh air. For beer lovers, this rare fusion of brewery and eatery under one roof is a compelling reason to host a gathering here.
How does the food at Wilson’s Eatery accommodate diverse dietary needs?
Wilson’s Eatery is notable for its commitment to offering fresh, made-daily dishes that cater to various dietary preferences and restrictions, positioning it as a thoughtful venue for group meetups where attendees may have different needs. The kitchen sources local ingredients to craft sandwiches, flatbreads, and salads that highlight Southern flavors but with a modern twist, ensuring everyone enjoys high-quality meals. For groups including individuals who require gluten-free options, Wilson’s offers gluten-free buns and plates, praised highly by patrons who appreciate tasty and safe alternatives without having to compromise on flavor or variety. The menu items are priced reasonably, mostly under $15, making it affordable for larger groups. Even the house-made sodas offer unique, craft versions of cherry cola and root beer, adding an option beyond alcoholic beverages or traditional soft drinks. This attention to diversity and detail makes Wilson’s Eatery an inclusive space where no one feels left out, and everyone can find a satisfying meal or drink.
What makes the atmosphere at Wilson’s Eatery ideal for connecting with friends and family?
The atmosphere at Wilson’s Eatery is instrumental in making it an attractive destination for gatherings. The eatery’s setting in a converted warehouse provides an intriguing industrial ambiance, featuring exposed metal beams, polished concrete floors, and corrugated metal accents that blend durability with style. This spacious interior, combined with an adjacent outdoor deck and a large beer garden, gives guests multiple options for seating based on their group’s preferences and size. Ample natural light outdoors and fans inside keep guests comfortable regardless of the time of day or season. The casual counter service environment encourages a relaxed pace, where guests order at the counter and receive a text when their food is ready, allowing groups to focus on socializing without interruption. The friendly and attentive staff further enhance this welcoming energy, ensuring groups feel taken care of while maintaining their own flow. This intentionally casual, inviting vibe helps foster real, unforced connections among friends and family, whether celebrating special occasions or simply catching up.
Why is Wilson’s Eatery a dog-friendly spot and what does that mean for gatherings?
Wilson’s Eatery embraces a dog-friendly culture that appeals to many visitors who consider their pets part of the family. Named after the owners’ yellow lab, Wilson, the eatery honors its canine inspiration by welcoming dogs on the patio and in the beer garden, making it a superb choice for groups who want to bring their furry friends along. This dog-friendly policy adds to the warmth and relaxed atmosphere of the venue, as guests can enjoy the outdoors with their pets safely by their side. Additionally, Wilson’s Eatery supports local animal rescues and causes by donating 5% of all food sales, reflecting a community-oriented spirit that many patrons appreciate. For groups that include dog owners, this feature enhances the appeal of hosting a meetup here since everyone, including four-legged companions, can feel included and comfortable. The combination of pet-friendly space, charitable impact, and great food and drinks makes Wilson’s Eatery uniquely welcoming and socially conscious.
How does the location of Wilson’s Eatery contribute to its appeal for meetups?
Located in Raleigh’s unique old grocery warehouse area, Wilson’s Eatery benefits from a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere and easy accessibility. This area, known for its blend of historic charm and modern development, offers a creative backdrop that adds to the destination vibe of the eatery. Being the sister business to Lynnwood Brewing means it is part of a broader social hub where patrons can experience multiple venues without traveling far, enhancing the potential for longer group outings or progressive meetups between locations. The parking and ease of access also cater well to groups that may be carpooling or arriving at different times. This location anchors Wilson’s Eatery not just as a dining spot but as part of a lively community scene where groups can immerse themselves in local culture and hospitality. For those seeking an experience beyond just food, the warehouse district setting adds authenticity and charm that enrich the social gathering.
What kind of events or occasions are suited for Wilson’s Eatery?
Wilson’s Eatery’s versatile layout, excellent food and drink options, and welcoming atmosphere make it ideal for a wide range of group events and occasions. Casual celebrations such as birthday parties, small reunions, or after-work socials fit well with the relaxed and spacious environment featuring ample indoor seating and a large beer garden. The straightforward counter ordering system allows large groups to navigate meal logistics efficiently while still enjoying communal dining. Friends looking for a casual weekend gathering or families seeking a dog-friendly patio to spend quality time can find a comfortable home here. Additionally, those who appreciate craft beer and locally inspired cuisine can celebrate milestones or just the joy of good company in an environment that supports both. The eatery’s commitment to fresh, flavorful food paired with its social spaces makes it a great venue for informal yet meaningful gatherings.
Why is Wilson’s Eatery highly rated by its community?
With a robust 4.6-star rating based on nearly 800 reviews, Wilson’s Eatery reflects a strong approval from its patrons. Customers regularly praise the friendly and accommodating staff who provide excellent service that enhances the overall experience. The quality and freshness of the food, along with the creative Southern-inspired menu, receive consistent acclaim for balancing flavor with approachability. The variety and quality of the craft beers, especially in combination with the food, are often highlighted as a unique offering that distinguishes the eatery. The welcoming, clean, and comfortable environment, along with the pet-friendly policies and charitable contributions, further endear it to the local community. This consistent positive feedback from a broad base of visitors underscores its status as a trusted and beloved spot in Raleigh for social meetups.
What should you know before planning a group meetup at Wilson’s Eatery?
Before gathering a group at Wilson’s Eatery, it’s helpful to understand the counter service model that differs from traditional full-service restaurants. Guests place their orders at the counter and receive a text notification when their meals are ready, which encourages groups to coordinate their seating efficiently and perhaps arrive together to settle in. Additionally, while the menu offers a diverse range of options, some items may evolve as the kitchen tweaks offerings, so checking current specials or availability can enhance the experience. Although the eatery is spacious and designed to handle groups, especially in the beer garden, large parties might want to contact the restaurant ahead to ensure accommodations, especially on weekends or during busy hours. Being dog-friendly means you can bring pets to outdoor areas, but indoor seating will typically be pet-free. Finally, the variety of craft sodas and non-alcoholic beverages complements the beer and food menu, ensuring options for all attendees. These points of awareness help ensure a smooth and enjoyable gathering for everyone involved.