Raleigh's Best Chicken Fried Steak [Updated 2025]

I dove into the heart of Raleigh, sampling, savoring, and sometimes even indulging in the crispy, flavorful goodness of chicken fried steak. After reviewing a dozen top spots, I can confidently say this city has some serious contenders that deserve your attention.

Trust me, I take my comfort food seriously—I've spent years perfecting my palate and hunting down the juiciest, most tender cuts, smothered in rich, savory gravy. So whether you're a lifelong fan of this Southern classic or a curious newcomer, get ready to discover where to find the ultimate chicken fried steak that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Oak Steakhouse

Highlights
Fantastic Service
Knowledgeable Staff
Delicious Mac and Cheese
Beautiful Restaurant
Exceptional Birthday Venue

Oak Steakhouse in Raleigh is a delightful gem where Southern meets sophistication. During my visit, I was immediately charmed by the beautiful ambiance—an elegant backdrop perfect for both casual dining and special celebrations. This spot also doubles as an exceptional birthday venue, making it a favorite among those looking to impress.

The service was truly stellar. The staff was not only friendly but also knowledgeable, eager to share insights about their menu. When it came to the star of the show, their chicken fried steak, it did not disappoint. The crispy batter encased a perfectly tender cut of beef, swimming in a rich, homemade gravy that was simply divine.

Accompanying my meal, the delicious mac and cheese provided the ultimate comfort food experience, balancing the richness of the steak with its creamy, cheesy goodness.

Choosing the best chicken fried steak in Raleigh is a challenge, but after my delightful experience at Oak, it’s clear that this establishment deserves a top spot on the list. If you’re craving a taste of heaven on a plate, I highly recommend you give this place a visit!

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Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar

Highlights
Amazing food and service
Cozy atmosphere with low lighting
Fantastic and attentive staff
Delicious pimento cheese fritters
Great drink selection at the bar

At Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar, the atmosphere is as inviting as the food is delicious. The cozy layout, enhanced by low lighting, creates a perfect backdrop for a leisurely meal. As I settled in, I couldn’t help but notice the fantastic and attentive staff, who greeted me with a warm smile and a genuine interest in making my dining experience memorable.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the chicken fried steak. This dish commands attention with its perfectly crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. It’s hand-breaded to achieve that delightful crunch, and it comes generously smothered in rich, flavorful gravy that had me savoring every bite.

I couldn’t resist starting with their pimento cheese fritters, which were a delightful surprise and paired perfectly with a refreshing drink from their extensive bourbon selection. Each sip elevated the meal further, leaving me both satisfied and eager for more.

In short, Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar is a gem in Raleigh where comfort food meets culinary craftsmanship. If you’re on a quest for the best chicken fried steak, look no further; this place is a must-try.

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State Farmers Market Restaurant

Highlights
Wonderful breakfast venue
Exceptional customer service
Delicious homemade biscuits
Juicy, tender chicken
Unique local experience

The moment I stepped into State Farmers Market Restaurant, I was engulfed by the delightful aromas of home cooking. This charming eatery truly captures the essence of a wonderfully authentic breakfast venue. As a connoisseur of chicken fried steak, I was eager to see if their version would live up to my expectations.

I ordered the chicken fried steak and my first bite was revelation! The meat was incredibly tender and juicy, practically melting in my mouth, while the crispy golden batter added just the right amount of crunch. It was a symphony of flavors, perfectly complemented by their homemade biscuits that I couldn’t help but slather with butter.

The standout feature, however, was the exceptional customer service. The friendly staff made me feel like part of the family, which added an extra layer of warmth to my dining experience.

What I loved most was the unique local charm of the restaurant, encapsulating the spirit of Raleigh's vibrant food scene. If you're in the area and yearning for a delicious chicken fried steak, I’d say this place deserves a spot on your must-try list. Trust me, it’s a delightful way to start your day!

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The Mill Raleigh

Stepping into The Mill Raleigh felt like a warm embrace filled with Southern charm. Their chicken fried steak was a delightful masterpiece—each bite was tender and juicy, enveloped in a perfectly crispy crust that made my taste buds dance with joy. The homemade gravy drizzled on top added just the right amount of richness, elevating the dish to new heights. Served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans, this plate is a comfort food symphony. Overall, if you're on a quest for the ultimate chicken fried steak, The Mill Raleigh is a must-visit destination!

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Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar

During my recent visit to Tupelo Honey Southern Kitchen & Bar, I was greeted with the warm charm of Southern hospitality and an irresistible aroma wafting through the air. Their chicken fried steak, generously portioned and perfectly golden, was a heavenly delight. The crunchy exterior contrasted beautifully with the tender, juicy meat inside. Drizzled with rich sawmill gravy, it was a symphony of flavors on my taste buds. Accompanied by fluffy biscuits, each bite felt like a warm hug. If you’re craving an unforgettable chicken fried steak experience, Tupelo Honey is definitely worth the visit!

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J. Alexander's Restaurant

J. Alexander's Restaurant in Raleigh serves a chicken fried steak that is nothing short of a culinary masterpiece. The moment you sink your teeth into that perfectly breaded, crispy exterior, you’re welcomed by a juicy, tender inside that practically melts in your mouth. Each bite is complemented by a generous drizzle of their luscious gravy, which boasts a delightful blend of spices that elevate this classic Southern dish. The side of creamy mashed potatoes is the perfect companion, making for a comforting meal. If you’re in search of a plate that screams heaven on a dish, look no further than J. Alexander's!

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Glenwood Grill & GLENWOOD Grill Annex

At Glenwood Grill & GLENWOOD Grill Annex, the chicken fried steak is an absolute treat! The tender, perfectly fried cutlet steals the show, bathed in a luxurious cream gravy that’s rich yet balanced. The sides, especially the buttery mashed potatoes, complement it wonderfully. I appreciated the warm, welcoming atmosphere as I savored each bite. The slight crunch and peppery flavor elevate this classic dish to a new level. Whether you choose the original location or the Annex, this culinary gem will surely satisfy your craving for the best chicken fried steak in Raleigh. Don't miss out on this delightful experience!

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Watkins Grill

Watkins Grill offers a playful twist on the classic chicken fried steak that left me craving more. The moment I took my first bite, the crispy exterior gave way to a tender, flavorful center that danced on my palate. The house-made gravy—so rich and velvety—was a perfect companion, elevating each morsel to new heights. What truly sets this gem apart is the friendly staff, whose enthusiasm made my visit even more delightful. If you're in Raleigh and searching for an unforgettable chicken fried steak experience, look no further than Watkins Grill—where comfort food meets culinary charm!

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Pam's Farmhouse Restaurant

At Pam's Farmhouse Restaurant, the chicken fried steak is a delightful testament to southern comfort food. The golden crust is a perfect contrast to the juicy, tender beef, and the homemade gravy—rich and full of flavor—elevates each bite to pure bliss. The portion sizes are generous, making it an ideal meal for sharing (or not!). The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff only add to the charm, wrapping you in a warm embrace as you enjoy your meal. If you're searching for a spot that serves comfort on a plate, Pam's is definitely worth a visit!

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Big Ed's City Market Restaurant

At Big Ed's City Market Restaurant, the chicken fried steak is nothing short of a culinary delight! The moment it arrived, I was enamored by its golden, crispy crust that promised a satisfying crunch. When I took a bite, the tenderness of the meat melted in my mouth, complemented perfectly by a rich, creamy gravy that had just the right amount of seasoning. The generous portion size left me practically waddling home, but it was absolutely worth it. If you're hunting for the ultimate chicken fried steak experience in Raleigh, Big Ed's is a must-visit!

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Flavor Hills

At Flavor Hills, the chicken fried steak was a delightful surprise! The moment I took a bite, I was enveloped in a crispy, golden crust that crunched perfectly. The tender meat inside practically melted in my mouth, oozing savory goodness. While the cream gravy draped generously over the dish, enhancing its comfort food vibes, the accompanying sides added a fresh twist. The rustic atmosphere and friendly staff rounded out the experience, making it a charming retreat for steak lovers. If you're seeking a stellar chicken fried steak in Raleigh, Flavor Hills is not to be missed!

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The Station at Person Street

At The Station at Person Street, I was greeted with a hearty serving of chicken fried steak that was nothing short of spectacular. The crispy, golden-brown crust gave way to a tender, juicy interior, celebrating the perfect harmony of textures. Adorned with a generous drizzle of creamy gravy, it felt like a warm hug on a plate. Paired with fluffy mashed potatoes and collard greens, this dish is a southern dream. If you’re craving comfort food that delivers both flavor and satisfaction, this spot deserves a top place in your chicken fried steak quest!

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