Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern

Nestled in the elegant surroundings of a beautifully restored Victorian home at 330 Hillsborough St in Raleigh, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern masterfully blends upscale American cuisine with an inviting fine dining atmosphere. This restaurant offers a culinary journey rich in creativity and textures, making it a top destination for those seeking an exceptional dining experience that tantalizes all the senses.

The menu is a tribute to bold, expertly balanced flavors and artful presentation. Start your meal with enticing first courses such as the Grilled Bluefin Tuna Salad, where the delicate, buttery tuna harmonizes with creamy ginger dressing, or the inventive Citrus & Moroccan Seasoned Kimpachi Crudo featuring a symphony of ingredients like za’atar yogurt and crispy corn cake. For those who appreciate unique tastes, the warm Duck Confit & Braised Spanish Rabbit Salad delivers a rich, comforting complexity that sets the tone for what is to come.

Main courses at Second Empire are a showcase of sophisticated technique and flavor layering. The Pan Roasted New Bedford Sea Scallops come perfectly seared, tender and juicy, paired with potato gnocchi and roasted leeks—each bite a luxurious blend of silky and earthy notes. Equally remarkable is the Latin Seasoned Roasted Grouper, served with black beans and chorizo sausage, offering a dynamic and vibrant taste profile that sings with every forkful. The Rack of Lamb and dishes like the Grilled Scottish "Bakkafrost" Salmon demonstrate the kitchen’s commitment to delivering impeccable quality paired with innovative sides such as creamy black “forbidden” rice and basil saffron cream sauce.

Dessert lovers are in for a divine finale here. The Second Empire Key Lime Pie is celebrated for its bright, tart freshness balanced with a buttery crust, while the Empire Chocolate Soufflé and the Vanilla Bean Crème Brûlée offer rich, velvety textures that melt effortlessly on the tongue. Delicate touches like fresh berries and almond lace cookies add sophistication to each sweet bite.

Beyond the food, the ambiance of Second Empire shines with classic white tablecloth elegance and soft, warm lighting that creates an intimate yet formal setting. Reviewers consistently praise the attentive, knowledgeable service that enhances the entire dining experience. Guests frequently mention staff like Derek, who brings not just expertise on the menu but also captivating stories of the restaurant’s rich history, enhancing guests’ connection to the place.

Patrons celebrating special occasions find themselves truly cherished here. Multiple guests share how the team’s thoughtful touches for anniversaries and celebrations elevate the meal from remarkable to unforgettable. The atmosphere hums with a refined warmth that makes every visitor feel like a VIP, perfect for memorable dinners or special evenings out.

If you crave an exquisite American dining experience where complexity meets harmony, and where every dish is a thoughtfully crafted work of art, Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern is a destination you cannot miss in Raleigh. Whether it’s the succulent sea scallops, the vibrant grouper, or a decadent dessert that captures your heart, this restaurant leaves an indelible impression—one of culinary mastery wrapped in gracious hospitality.