Keeping up with the Triangle's restaurant scene almost feels like a full-time job lately. New neighborhoods are popping up, old spaces are being reimagined, and food continues to be one of the clearest reflections of how fast this region is growing.
From chef-driven projects to long-awaited revivals, these upcoming openings are shaping what dining around Raleigh, Durham, Cary, and RTP will look like in 2026.
Big Cat
Big Cat is one of those projects everyone seems to be watching closely. Located on Brookside Drive, the concept is intentionally fluid, designed as a place that blends food, drinks, and everyday gathering.
The team behind it includes some of Raleigh's most respected culinary names, including the owners of Ajja, the minds behind Mala Pata, and partners connected to Locals Seafood and Person Street Bar. While details are still limited, expectations are understandably high.
Location: 1000 Brookside Dr., Suite 119, Raleigh
Opening: Spring 2026
Botiwalla
Inspired by Irani cafes found throughout India's major cities, Botiwalla focuses on approachable street-style dishes meant to be shared, snacked on, and enjoyed casually.
Created by James Beard Award-winning chef Meherwan Irani, the concept has already proven itself in other cities. The Triangle location is expected to bring the same mix of bold flavors, grill-focused plates, and playful drinks.
Location: 2221 Iron Works Dr., Raleigh
Opening: Spring 2026
Cottage Coffee & Park Bar
Dix Park continues to expand its food and drink options with the addition of Cottage Coffee and Park Bar, located inside the historic Flowers Cottage.
The space will offer coffee, beer, wine, ice cream, and local baked goods, along with a deck overlooking the park's iconic sunflower fields.
Location: 2105 Umstead Dr., Raleigh
Opening: Summer 2026
The Gables
The restoration of the old Gables Motor Lodge is moving forward with plans to turn the historic property into a creative retreat that includes lodging, a neighborhood bar, and space for artists.
Led by singer-songwriter Tift Merritt and hospitality veteran Daniel Robinson, the project aims to preserve the spirit of the original while giving it new purpose.
Location: 1217 Wake Forest Road, Raleigh
Opening: Summer 2026
Lewis Barbecue
Fresh off national recognition, Lewis Barbecue is expanding into Raleigh with a Texas-style barbecue operation anchored by a full smokehouse.
The restaurant will join the growing Raleigh Iron Works development, adding another heavyweight to the area's dining lineup.
Location: 2300 Atlantic Ave., Raleigh
Opening: Late 2025
Lloyd's Full Service
A former 1950s-era filling station in downtown Cary is being transformed into Lloyd's Full Service, a new restaurant from the Early Bird Night Owl hospitality group.
Plans include expanded indoor seating, a patio with a fire pit, and a design that keeps the site's history front and center.
Location: 107 E. Chatham St., Cary
Opening: Summer 2026
Lutra Cafe & Bakery
After building a devoted following through pop-ups and farmers markets, Lutra Bakery is opening its first permanent location at Durham's American Tobacco Campus.
The new space allows for an expanded menu covering breakfast, lunch, and weekend brunch, with the same creative approach that made the bakery a local favorite.
Location: 312 Blackwell St., Suite 102, Durham
Opening: Spring 2026
High Horse
High Horse is making a comeback after its original run was cut short in 2020. Chef Katsuji Tanabe plans to revive the concept at Hub RTP.
The restaurant previously stood out for blending Mexican, Japanese, and American influences, and the return has many longtime fans watching closely.
Location: 3151 Elion Dr., Durham
Opening: Summer 2026
Pinheiro
East Durham's dining scene continues to grow with the addition of Pinheiro, a wine bar focused on Portuguese and Iberian wines.
The concept comes from longtime wine industry professional Sergio Ramos and will also offer small snacks designed to complement the surrounding neighborhood.
Location: 304 S. Driver St., Durham
Opening: Early 2026
Prime STQ
Building on the success of Prime Barbecue, Prime STQ will introduce a steak-forward concept at Hub RTP.
Lunch will focus on counter service, while evenings shift toward a classic steakhouse experience with table service.
Location: 3151 Elion Dr., Durham
Opening: Early 2026
Stanbury expansion
Stanbury is expanding into the former Ezcasu Chocolates space, just steps from its original location.
While details remain limited, the new concept will share a kitchen with Stanbury while keeping the original restaurant unchanged.
Location: 936 N. Blount St., Raleigh
Opening: Late 2025
42nd Street Oyster Bar
Few restaurant closures hit Raleigh as hard as 42nd Street Oyster Bar. After more than 90 years, the iconic spot closed its doors last year.
The good news is that a reopening is in the works, led by the restaurant's longtime general manager and a new team committed to preserving its legacy.
Location: 508 W. Jones St., Raleigh
Opening: Early 2026
