Imagine a dining experience that combines an atmosphere of classical history and elegance with a selection of cuisine that is as exquisitely unique as it is delicious. Then imagine delighting your senses with a world-class wine selection. Now imagine finding this right here in the Triangle. It's not imagination, it's Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern.
Located in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House in downtown Raleigh, Second Empire satisfies the highest of standards. Our delectable menu and polished service that have won us the AAA Four Diamond Award, the DiRoNa Award and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence since 1998 will assure you a truly unique dining experience.
Located in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House in downtown Raleigh, Second Empire satisfies the highest of standards. Our delectable menu and polished service that have won us the AAA Four Diamond Award, the DiRoNa Award and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence since 1998 will assure you a truly unique dining experience.
Reviews (10)
Joey Rivera
Jan 24, 2022
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My wife and I have driven by this restaurant many times and had wondered about going there. So, on our anniversary today, we decided to go and we were very pleased with everything! Initially we were sat downstairs near the bar. Although it was nice, we requested to be seated upstairs where it was more elegant and warmer. The host was very accommodating and moved us upstairs. Next our waiter introduced himself and gave us a mouth watering description of some of the entrees on the menu as well as an amazing specialty drink and later, dessert! The entrees we had were incredibly delicious! We were
Christopher Brocco
Jan 10, 2022
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The most incredible and memorable experience. My partner took my family and I here for my birthday and surprised me with dinner at the Chef's table in the kitchen. The food and staff are absolutely incredible and delivered an amazing experiencing that still has me smiling a week later. It was a 5-star experience all the way. Despite their incredible talents, everyone was so humble and kind, and they took such excellent care of us. I cannot say enough positive things about this restaurant. It's a true gem!
Chip Haver
Dec 14, 2021
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Jiahui Zhou
Nov 16, 2021
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Definitely one of the top 3 restaurants around Raleigh. The marvelous house was full of history, which the hostess enthusiastically recounted, as well as beautiful artworks many of which were from local artists’ hands. Everything we ordered was superbly executed which leads one to believe this to be true with regard to every other item on the menu.
Surely the shrimp, pork belly, scallop etc were savory and of great texture. And speaking of the entree one could hardly expect a fillet of trout or veal chop more juicy and tender than what we’re offered here. Yet equally or even more laudable
Surely the shrimp, pork belly, scallop etc were savory and of great texture. And speaking of the entree one could hardly expect a fillet of trout or veal chop more juicy and tender than what we’re offered here. Yet equally or even more laudable
Erica Denton
Nov 14, 2021
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Excellent customer service and detailed food. We got a cheese board (excellent) and then I got the paella (not quite like traditional Spanish paella, but I was advised beforehand) and chocolate layer cake. The cake was AMAZING. Many times, chocolate cakes with chocolate icing tend to be rich. This cake was the perfect balance. Great environment for celebrations.
Eli Teague
Nov 02, 2021
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I enjoyed a meal here this past January. Everything was cooked to perfection and carefully made. Not only was the food amazing, but so was the hospitality of the waiters and hostess. It is definitely on the expensive side of restaurants, so I would recommend it for a special occasion. ie. anniversary, birthday, etc. The atmosphere is also very romantic and recommend highly.
Sassy Doll
Sep 15, 2021
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Everything was exquisite! You can tell the amount of care that goes into the dish from the ingredients to the presentation. Everything was done to perfection. I will say that the food here is for more mature tastebuds so go with an open mind.
Every meal from the first course to the dessert is made in-house which is RARE! The servers are amazing and know the menu well which is most impressive! It was a lovely environment and a wonderful evening. They took care of us and I will be going back. It's a well earned 5 star rating.
Every meal from the first course to the dessert is made in-house which is RARE! The servers are amazing and know the menu well which is most impressive! It was a lovely environment and a wonderful evening. They took care of us and I will be going back. It's a well earned 5 star rating.
Paul & Kathy Olson
Aug 30, 2021
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Rebekah Rhodes
Aug 28, 2021
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Ruth Zyry
Jul 12, 2021
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