Angus Barn — Restaurant in Raleigh

From the moment we navigated off of Glenwood and into the parking lot we felt we had arrived somewhere special. The canopy covering the area is lush & green at this time of year as we commented on how gorgeous it must be come fall. Approaching the building we took note of the welcoming vibe of the outside saloon with its charming decor and unique seating opportunities.

Once inside it felt homey, comfortable, and kind with quite the welcoming host staff. We mentioned we arrived early to enjoy the Wild Turkey Lounge and we were told exactly how to navigate that way with ease. When we asked if we could walk around and explore the dining areas as this was our first visit to their restaurant the team seemed genuinely happy that we wanted to check out their home away from home. Amazing space! So large yet made to feel welcoming due to the decor and prideful staff at every turn.

X was bartending in the Wild Turkey Lounge and what a joy he was as our first dining experience service member at Angus Barn. When we mentioned our possible food choices, X was in total agreement that we were right on track for a fantastic meal. Cup of onion soup, a wedge salad that is the BEST we have ever tasted, and their shaved steak sandwich with an unctuous stuffed potato as our side dish selection. This after already marveling at the complimentary cheese & relish tray!

We met new friends at the bar, which is something we look forward to doing many times in the near future. This place is an institution in Raleigh, and it is easy to understand why. The wine list is thoughtfully procured, the pricing across the lists of beverages AND food is fair and approachable for every day dining, and they have been around for 65 years due to the vision of founders Thad Eure, Jr. and Charles Winston. Family members of the Eure family have kept in place many of the founding principles and stay tuned in to their employees and guests as the guiding light.

We were provided a tour by Chloe last night after X and sommelier Kevin both suggested we do so. The information that young woman shares about the restaurant, its history, the Eure family, the wine cellar, and unique dining opportunities beyond the dining rooms is mind-blowing. Chloe made me want to go home and learn more, and I did! But not until we shopped in their Country Store with Scott ringing up our treasures as he provided more fun facts about Angus Barn.

Then Walter Hilliard Greene bid us a warm and genuine good-bye as he encouraged me to take an apple from the barrel that sits at the front entryway. I was so surprised and asked him incredulously, "Really!?!?" This famous-in-his-own rights guy assured me that is what guests do as they leave Angus Barn. I asked him his name, I shook his hand, and I smiled knowing I had found a new restaurant home in Raleigh.

We did not want our early dinner night to end yet so we stopped at Mike's bar outside at the Entrance Saloon. As he seemed to ask each guest, Mike asked us, "What are you celebrating?" with such a warmth in his voice that you felt like he truly cared about the answer forthcoming. We told him we were celebrating moving to Raleigh and finally getting to Angus Barn! That started another great conversation with another member of the Angus Barn family.

As a former restaurant manager (I worked with David Laxer of Bern's Steak House back in Tampa as his General Manager of their sister restaurant SideBern's back in the late 1990's) I recognize and deeply appreciate a well-run restaurant that not only puts out fabulous cuisine with wines that pair perfectly with the Chef's culinary team's talent but also showcases a staff that obviously loves what they do and who they do it for. Van Eure continues her parents' legacy of "the guest...

We visited for our daughters’ birthday, and while the ambiance and service were absolutely stellar (5 stars!), the food was mediocre at best — especially for the price. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t return based on the quality of the food alone. They definitely need new chefs in the kitchen.

Arrival & Seating: We called ahead to ask about the outdoor patio and were told it was first come, first served — no issue. But when we arrived, the hostess repeated the same info without offering to take our name or number for the waitlist. My husband walked back to the car with basically nothing to report. I went in myself and was greeted by Helen, who was fantastic. She immediately took my info and promised to notify me when a patio table was ready — which she did within 7 minutes. Shoutout to her!

We were escorted through a clean, buzzing kitchen — it was pristine and welcoming — and led to an empty patio with a firepit with NOT 1 table occupied. Kind of funny considering the first hostess told my husband that nothing was available moments before. But the space was lovely, and we were happy to be seated. Service & Experience:** Our server was great — friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. He asked about dietary preferences and gave solid recommendations. The vibe and staff make you feel like you’re somewhere special.

Food: Cheese dip was artificial-tasting, like canned cheese — not for me. Spicy potato wedges (no bacon) were overcooked, dry and tasted reheated. Turkey wings were the highlight — tender and juicy with tasty dipping sauces. Crab cakes were a no for me. I grew up in DC/Maryland, so maybe I’m picky, but these didn’t hit. Ravioli (x2) — ordered one Alfredo, one Marinara. Both came out Marinara. The girls said it was "just okay." French onion soup — average. Baked potato arrived late and was clearly microwaved. I sent it back. Chateaubriand steak (husband) — he took it to-go but said the sautéed spinach was excellent.

Birthday Touch: At the end, they brought out a whole pound cake (not just a slice!) with whipped cream, strawberries, and candles. That was an incredibly generous and thoughtful gesture, and we truly appreciated it.

Final Thoughts: Angus Barn nails the ambiance and hospitality — from the vintage decor to their welcoming staff (minus the first hostess). But for what you pay, the food should absolutely be better. At these prices, I expected a memorable meal and instead got a forgettable one. Sadly, unless there’s a major overhaul in the kitchen, I...

Angus Barn is a Raleigh establishment and is a place to take out of towners or people you are trying to impress. I've been several times over the years and am giving my impressions as well as my dinner mates.

The food is all top notch quality (mostly) meat. I really have enjoyed their ribs and shrimp dishes. The sides are really good and they have great desserts. The cheese and homemade crackers they provide each table are delicious. The reason for the 4 stars overall is that over the past few visits, no one has been impressed with their steaks. The meat quality is there but there seems to be a lack of seasoning. We've tried the tomahawk, filet, and ribeye and come to the same conclusions. Not bad mind you, but when you are paying 50-100 per person, I expect some awesome flavor and these were just ok.

The service is fantastic and waiters/waitresses are very attentive. The decor on an average night, is like a cross between an old mansion and not shockingly a barn. Wooden chairs, almost picnic like tablecloths, and a more relaxed dress code than you'd typically see at a higher end steakhouse. Its a good place of a business dinner or large group of friends. Note that you will either need a reservation multiple weeks in advance unless you want a super early (5pm) or super late (9pm) reservation. Your other alternative is to go to the Wild Turkey Lounge which is the bar area but it is first come first serve. They also have a store where they sell the cheese and other homemade treats that you can take home.

The real treat is visiting during Christmas time as these decorations are some of the craziest you'll ever see. The ceilings are covered in decorations and there are tons of lights outside. I attached a few photos. You will have to book as it becomes available (3 months out) if you want a reservation between Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is worth the effort.

All in all, this is definitely a great place for a business dinner, group of adult friends, or date. Kids menu is going to run you about 20 bucks for a hot dog, or mac and cheese so me personally would leave them at home if possible as I'm cheap but it is more family friendly that say a Morton's or Ruth Chris. The ambiance and service is top notch but don't expect your steak to be the most amazing...