State Farmers Market Restaurant
About This Spot
Stepping into the State Farmers Market Restaurant feels like walking into a cherished slice of Southern hospitality, where the warmth extends from the atmosphere to the food itself. Tucked beside the bustling Farmers Market in Raleigh, the restaurant hums with a gentle rhythm that welcomes both early risers and midday wanderers seeking the comforts of classic Southern cuisine served with genuine care.
The pace here invites easy conversation, whether you’re settling in for a leisurely breakfast or a casual lunch. Natural light filters through the windows, illuminating simple yet inviting décor that hints at the local roots and community spirit that define this spot. Staff move with approachable attentiveness, ensuring guests feel seen and valued, whether it’s a familiar face or a newcomer eager to dive into Southern flavors.
What makes the experience truly special is the way the menu feels like a heartfelt conversation between tradition and today’s palate. The air is often rich with the scent of buttery biscuits fresh from the oven, warm hush puppies, and the satisfying sizzle of fried chicken paired with waffles. Plates arrive generously piled, telling stories of home-cooked memories — from molasses sausage gravy ladled over fluffy biscuits to vibrant sides like summer peppers and prize-winning local watermelon that capture the essence of the region’s bounty.
Whether you’re drawn by the classic fried chicken biscuits or the variety of hearty sandwiches and crisp salads, the offerings strike a balance between indulgence and freshness. The portions encourage sharing and savoring, encouraging guests to slow down and enjoy the hum of the dining room around them. It’s a place where the meal is a reason to pause, and the conversation that follows feels effortless.
There’s a grounded kindness here that extends beyond just the food. The attentive service and moments of unexpected delight, like a smiley face on a child’s waffle or a friendly word from a server, enrich the experience without calling attention to themselves. It’s this blend of homey food, welcoming ambiance, and a real connection to the community that lingers long after your visit.
What’s Available Here
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Outdoor seating
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On-site services
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Takeaway
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Dine-in
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Delivery
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Fast service
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Great coffee
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Great tea selection
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Serves local specialty
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Breakfast
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Lunch
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Solo dining
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Wheelchair-accessible car park
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Wheelchair-accessible entrance
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Wheelchair-accessible seating
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Wheelchair-accessible toilet
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Coffee
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Comfort food
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Quick bite
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Breakfast
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Brunch
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Lunch
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Counter service
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Dessert
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Seating
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Table service
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Toilet
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Casual
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Cosy
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Historic
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Family friendly
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Groups
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Tourists
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University students
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Usually a wait
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Accepts reservations
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Credit cards
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Debit cards
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Credit cards
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Good for kids
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High chairs
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Kids' menu
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Free parking lot
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Parking
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Dogs allowed outside
Location & Hours
| Monday | 06:00 AM - 03:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 06:00 AM - 03:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 06:00 AM - 03:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Thursday | 06:00 AM - 03:00 PM | |
| Friday | 06:00 AM - 03:00 PM | |
| Saturday | 06:00 AM - 03:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 08:00 AM - 03:00 PM |
Katie O 05 Jan 2026
Great classic southern food. Have only had breakfast here and it is one of the best southern breakfasts you can get. The biscuits are perfectly cooked and buttered and fluffy- and you get a free basket of them with your meal! The biscuits sandwiches come absolutely loaded. The bacon egg and cheese has to have a pound of bacon that comes on it. Cute decor inside, friendly staff.
Marissa Weber 27 Dec 2025
It's been a while since I've been here, but it's just as good as I remember it. We came Sunday morning before the rush. Brian took amazing care of us. He even went above and beyond, making my daughter smile with a smiley face when asked if she could have whipped cream for her waffle. We were seated almost immediately. The food came out quickly, and was absolutely delicious. The portion sizes are great, and we all ended up with leftovers. I highly recommend the Market Omelette (I can't remember the name, but it has everything in it. I usually go for one of the omelettes whenever I eat here, and they never disappoint. Can't wait to come back for breakfast!
Kai 23 Dec 2025
If you're looking for the perfect spot to impress out-of-town guests (yes, even the most discerning NYC foodies), The State Farmer’s Market Restaurant is the place to go. Nestled beside the rustic yet vibrant Farmer’s Market, this spot perfectly captures the charm, warmth, and flavor that make the RTP area such a special place to call home. The experience begins before you even sit down. While one person holds your spot in line, the rest of the group can explore the covered outdoor market. With large overhead fans and shelter from the elements, it’s an enjoyable outing rain or shine. Once inside, prepare to be treated to genuinely made-from-scratch Southern cooking that tastes as good as it looks. We tried the fried chicken, chicken salad, and French toast, and every bite was fresh, flavorful, and clearly prepared with care. The sides are where this place really shines; hush puppies and fried green tomatoes that completely changed my mind about both. And the biscuits? Perfectly seasoned, warm, and made even better with a little jam and butter. The service was just as thoughtful as the food. As first-time guests, we were guided through the menu by a kind and helpful waitress who shared her personal favorites and made us feel right at home. To end the meal, the banana bread pudding was an absolute highlight. Rich, indulgent, and the perfect sweet note to finish on. We left full, happy, and already planning our next visit. This is comfort food done right, at a price that makes it feel like a true bang for your buck. Rustic, fresh, and full of Southern soul, the State Farmer’s Market Restaurant is a can’t-miss experience for locals and visitors alike
Ella Thrailkill 08 Nov 2025
My husband and I stopped here for lunch, on our way to the coast. We had been to the NC State Farmers Market before, but not to this restaurant — and we’re wondering why it took us this long because the food was so, so good! I ordered the Flounder, and my husband ordered the Fried Chicken. We each got two sides and hushpuppies and biscuits with our plates. My husband specifically said that the chicken is one of the “top three best fried chicken” he’s ever tasted in his life. The service was prompt and the restaurant was wonderfully decorated for the Christmas season. Although we don’t know when, we hope to come back again for more :)
Vicki Brown 04 Nov 2025
Starting with the phone call with the young lady, to being greeted upon entering the front doors, the lady hostess (Tina I believe) took over pushing the wheelchair for me and got us settled on the patio. The young waiter (Andrew) was very attentive and polite. Even the gentleman cleaning the tables (can't forget him) was so patient and polite. Then when we were leaving another young lady (my apologies I can't recall her name) very polite wheeled my friend out while I took care of the tab. She even took him all the way to my truck in the parking lot. She offered to help get him in the truck as well. Thank you so much for making it a pleasurable experience. The whole overall experience was wonderful.
Rebecca Boren 26 Oct 2025
Great prices. Lovely atmosphere. Lots of choices. The Jim Graham biscuit could be improved by chopping the streak o lean. Place two or 3 full pieces on top for looks. Over all a great meal. Stellar service.
Nick James 23 Oct 2025
Granny Cone's sampler gives you a number of different southern breakfast foods/dishes. It was amazing! I could only eat half of it however. Bring your appetite. It was the best breakfast I have had in years!
Sarah Wu 04 Oct 2025
Let me preface this by saying I'm no expert on southern food, but I do appreciate it! We ordered a fried chicken biscuit sandwich and a chicken fried steak. Turns out the plates come with a biscuit and hush puppies anyway. I thought the food was mostly good and well priced but by no means the greatest I've ever had. The fried chicken was white meat so it was a little bit dry. The biscuits were good and huge, but I don't think they were exceptional. Service was great though.