When the Raleigh Iron Works was announced way back in early 2020, I was pretty excited! While I didn’t know exactly what would reside in this work-live development, it sounded like they were targeting a pretty sophisticated audience and higher-end food options. And over the course of the past three years, it has not disappointed this food-lover at all! I find myself at Raleigh Iron Works a lot now, and there are many great dining reasons why. From Tex-Mex to Croatian, beer, pizza, sandwiches, and more; there are so many excellent restaurants and eateries in one location. Read on for a quick overview of these great options!
Andia’s Ice Cream – Ice Cream and Sweet Treats
After a meal at Raleigh Iron Works, it’s sort of natural to want dessert and some sweets. And Andia’s Ice Cream is the perfect option for satiating your sweet tooth. Known for super premium ice cream, you don’t want to miss their signature flavor: baklava! But you can’t go wrong with most of the flavors at Andia’s. Drop a couple of scoops in a crunchy waffle cone, and I’m sure you’ll be happy with whatever you choose!
Botiwalla – Indian Street Food That’s Spicy and Flavorful
Botiwalla is one of the newer offerings at the Raleigh Iron Works, but is off to a great start. Think of flavorful Indian cuisine done casual. Spicy cauliflower, chicken tikka masala in a wrap, roasted lamb in a bowl, Botiwalla delivers tremendous flavor and taste in a small package. The interior design is fun and littered with Indian-Bollywood decor and kitschy items. With three other locations in North Carolina and Georgia, Botiwalla is a testament to good Indian food that’s accessible.
Brodeto – Croatian and Italian Cuisine in an Upscale Environment
As one of the most prominent chefs in the area, Scott Crawford is known for delivering exquisite cuisine with high-end ambiance, and Brodeto is no different. Out front, the tile-facing and signage give a Mediterranean feel to the space, and inside it gets even better. Stylish wood chairs, soft lighting, and a beautiful underlit bar capture the mind and eyes. The food spans seafood, pasta, and more but spun up in terms of plating and presentation. A great spot for a date or small dinner party.
Eastcut Sandwich Bar – Sandwiches and Hoagies Galore
Originally a Durham offering, Eastcut Sandwich Bar opened up its second location in Raleigh years ago; it was one of the first additions to Raleigh Iron Works. Their expansive menu covers a variety of hot and cold sandwiches in bun or hoagie form. Grab some of their amazing mozzarella sticks before diving into a sandwich, burger, or wings. Eastcut has expanded its menu over time to cover a huge variety of eating options that will keep a large group happy!
Little Rey – Tex-Mex Fare Brimming with Flavor
When it comes to Mexican or Tex-Mex, Little Rey is near the top of my list for Raleigh. Why’s that? Because Little Rey focuses on great ingredients and flavor, without unneeded complexity. Inside, it’s a simple counter order situation, and the menu is not huge: tacos, salads, roast chicken (pollo al carbon), and sides. But the execution is outstanding and delicious! Love their pork belly tacos on flour tortillas served with grilled onions and cilantro. And their hot sauces are amazing, flavor-packed and spicy. I love the fact that Little Rey serves great food but at lower price points compared to their flagship Superica at Fenton.
Ponysaurus Brewing – Beer and Pizza, the Magic Combination
Beer and pizza is a classic combo, and Ponysaurus Brewing brings you some of the best of both! While there is some semblance to the original Durham Ponysaurus, the Raleigh location one-ups things with an amazing 2-level interior complete with a fossilized dinosaur! Head on back where you can place your beverage order with a bartender, then order your food from a QR code and it will get delivered to your table. From the fresh beer to stellar artisanal pizzas and sandwiches, you get a little more than what you bargained for at Ponysaurus.
St. Pierre Wine Shop – A Sleek and Stylish Take on the Classic Wine Bar
A newer entry to Raleigh Iron Works, St. Pierre offers top-notch wines by the glass along with a retail area by the bottle. Sit out on the sidewalk or in sitting area up front with your favorite glass of vino and a friend for a bit of conversation and relaxation. The wines are delicious, and the staff is knowledgeable here. A more civilized approach to adult beverages if beer is not your thing. St. Pierre toes the line between wine shop and wine bar quite well.
Don’t miss the 2nd floor slide in the main courtyard along with some other unique structures. And what’s even more exciting for the Raleigh Iron Works are the restaurants that are to come: Lewis Barbecue and NOCO Bites and Brews. Raleigh Iron Works continues to expand into the Salvage Yard district across the street (Wicker Drive), where you’ll also find the Triangle Rock Club and Cannonball Music Hall. As you can tell, I’m a fan of this development. I really appreciate that they’ve curated a really excellent group of eating establishments that are mostly casual and affordable. And I do believe the neighborhood agrees; you’ll usually find a large crowd here on the weekends.
Raleigh Iron Works
1101 E Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC 27604
Raleigh Iron Works Directory and Map
Frequently Asked Questions
RAleigh iron works
Q
What are the restaurant and dining options like at Raleigh Iron Works?
A
RIW has dining options from fast-casual Tex-Mex and sandwiches up to more upscale formal dining. The restaurants here are all independent and eclectic in terms of their cuisine.
Q
What other things are there to do at Raleigh Iron Works beyond food and dining?
A
There is some great shopping and activities at RIW at Hunky Dory (Music, Vinyl), Beatniks (Clothes), and Urban Pothos (Plants). You’ll also find gyms, yoga, and pilates studios here. The commercial offerings are still being filled out over time.
Q
Who is Raleigh Iron Works best for?
A
RIW is super popular with families, couples, and younger folks in the area. They often run events, and the choice of restaurants leans toward more affordable.
Q
What is the parking like at Raleigh Iron Works?
A
There are multiple surface lots around the development and a main parking structure at the Forge. Limited street parking exists if you need to hop in and out.
K38 Baja Grille in Raleigh: A Taste of Mexico and the Beach at Seaboard Station