The best bites in Knightdale, North Carolina
### A Culinary Tour of Knightdale: From Biscuits to Sushi, a Foodie's Guide to Ten Essential Stops
Tucked just east of Raleigh’s bustling core, Knightdale, North Carolina, is often seen as a quiet suburban haven. But for those with a curious palate, it reveals itself as a vibrant tapestry of flavors, a place where down-home Southern comfort shakes hands with global culinary traditions. Forget the notion that you need to drive into the city for a memorable meal. Right here, along Knightdale Boulevard and tucked into friendly plazas, lies a dining scene ripe for exploration. So, pull up a chair, loosen your belt a notch, and join me, your local guide, on a mouthwatering journey through ten Knightdale establishments that define its deliciously diverse character.
#### **1. New York Diner: Where the Coffee is Always Hot and the Portions are Bigger Than Your Head**
**Location:** 909 McKnight Dr #1
**Vibe:** The Unpretentious, All-American Refuge
Step through the door of the New York Diner on McKnight Drive, and you’re immediately wrapped in the comforting aroma of sizzling bacon, fresh coffee, and griddle cakes. This isn't a themed restaurant; it's the real deal—a no-frills, family-run sanctuary for breakfast lovers, lunch breakers, and anyone craving authenticity over ambiance. The booths are well-worn, the chatter is friendly, and the servers call you hon without a hint of irony. The menu, a sprawling testament to classic Americana, can be daunting, but that’s where I come in.
**What to Order:** Start your day right with the **Big Apple Omelette.** This behemoth is stuffed with crisp bacon, savory sausage, diced ham, melted American cheese, onions, and green peppers. It’s a hearty, satisfying masterpiece that comes with your choice of grits or home fries and toast. For lunch, you cannot leave without trying their iconic **NYD Reuben.** Piled high on grilled rye, the corned beef is tender, the sauerkraut is tangy, the Swiss cheese is perfectly melted, and the Thousand Island dressing ties it all together in a messy, glorious package. Pair it with a side of their golden, crispy onion rings. Come hungry, leave supremely satisfied, with a to-go box that promises another meal.
#### **2. China House: A Knightdale Staple for Reliable, Flavor-Packed Classics**
**Location:** 7063 Knightdale Blvd
**Vibe:** The Consistent Neighborhood Favorite
In a world of fleeting food trends, China House stands as a steadfast pillar. Located in a bustling shopping center, it’s the go-to for families celebrating a good report card, friends sharing a casual dinner, and anyone needing a reliable fix of Chinese-American classics. The dining room is spacious and clean, often filled with the gentle clatter of plates and the low hum of conversation. The service is swift and attentive, making it perfect for both a relaxed sit-down meal or a speedy takeout run.
**What to Order:** While the menu is extensive, the true stars are their combination plates. For a perfect sampling, order the **House Special Lo Mein.** It’s a magnificent tangle of soft noodles wok-tossed with shrimp, chicken, beef, and fresh vegetables in a savory, not-too-salty brown sauce. The **Sesame Chicken** here is a benchmark—chunks of white meat chicken, fried to a delicate crunch, then draped in a glossy, sweet, and subtly nutty sauce that clings beautifully. Always start with an order of their **Crab Rangoons**—crispy wontons filled with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese and crab mixture that are utterly addictive.
#### **3. Kiko Japan Express: Quick-Serve Japanese with a Hearty Soul**
**Location:** 1018 Shoppes At Midway Dr Ste C
**Vibe:** The Efficient and Flavorful Lunch Counter
Don’t let the Express in the name fool you—Kiko Japan is about robust flavors delivered with speed and care. This is a counter-service gem where you can watch the chefs deftly work the teppanyaki grill. It’s bright, modern, and ideal for a fulfilling meal when you’re short on time but refuse to compromise on taste. The bowls here are legendary among locals in the know.
**What to Order:** The undisputed champion is the **Chicken Teriyaki Bowl.** It’s a masterclass in balance: a generous bed of steamed rice topped with tender, grilled chicken strips lavishly coated in a house-made teriyaki sauce that strikes the ideal sweet-savory note. It’s then piled high with a colorful medley of stir-fried zucchini, carrots, onions, and cabbage. For a richer option, the **Yaki Udon** with beef features thick, chewy noodles stir-fried with crisp vegetables and succulent beef in a deliciously umami sauce. It’s comfort food with a Japanese accent.
#### **4. Saltgrass Steak House: The Scent of the Texas Gulf Coast in North Carolina**
**Location:** 6601 Knightdale Blvd
**Vibe:** The Lively, Rustic Steakhouse Experience
When you catch a whiff of mesquite wood smoke near Knightdale Boulevard, you’ve found Saltgrass. This place brings a slice of Texas roadhouse spirit to town, with its warm, wood-heavy interior, cowboy artifacts, and a buzz of energy. It’s where you go for birthdays, anniversaries, or when you simply need to answer a primal craving for a perfectly cooked steak.
**What to Order:** Begin your cattle-drive feast with the **Texas Tonion**—a whole onion, cut blossom-style, fried until golden, and served with a zesty horseradish sauce. It’s a shareable, unforgettable starter. For your main event, the **7th Street Filet** is a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth tender cut that exemplifies their grilling prowess. If you’re feeling adventurous, the **Windy City Porterhouse** offers the best of both worlds—a strip and a filet. Make it a Steak & Shrimp combo to add their signature garlic butter shrimp. Every steak comes with their legendary loaf of hot, sweet wheat bread that alone is worth the visit.
#### **5. Hibachi K Express: Teppanyaki Theater, To-Go**
**Location:** 4001 Widewaters Parkway
**Vibe:** The Fast-Casual Hibachi Hack
Hibachi K Express solves a beautiful dilemma: how to get the thrilling, savory flavors of a hibachi grill show without the full sit-down time commitment. It’s a bright, clean, assembly-line style spot where you choose your protein, your rice, and your veggies, and watch as they’re cooked fresh on a large, sizzling teppan right before your eyes.
**What to Order:** Go for the **Steak & Chicken Hibachi Combo** with fried rice. You get the best of both worlds—juicy steak bites and tender chicken, all infused with that iconic soy-butter-garlic sauce that defines hibachi. The fried rice, studded with peas, carrots, and egg, is flavorful and never greasy. The portion is enormous, guaranteeing leftovers that reheat wonderfully. Don’t skip their **Yum Yum Sauce**—that creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy pink sauce is the perfect dip for every bite.
#### **6. Craften Neighborhood Food and Drink: Knightdale’s Culinary Crown Jewel**
**Location:** 706 Money Ct suite 101
**Vibe:** The Modern, Chef-Driven Neighborhood Gastropub
Craften is the restaurant that makes other towns jealous. Tucked away in a business park, it’s a destination that rewards the seeker. This is Knightdale’s fine-casual flagship, where the atmosphere is sleek yet welcoming, the cocktail list is creative, and the food is thoughtfully composed. It’s ideal for date night, a classy girls' night out, or impressing out-of-town friends.
**What to Order:** The menu evolves, but some signatures are eternal. Start with the **Pimento Cheese Fritters.** These are not your grandma’s pimento cheese; they’re crispy, gooey spheres of sharp cheddar and pimento, served with a pepper jelly for a sweet-heat punch. For an entrée, the **Craften Burger** is a must—a blend of premium beef, topped with bacon jam, smoked gouda, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. It’s arguably one of the best burgers in the Triangle. For something lighter yet stunning, the **Seared Scallops**, when available, are always perfectly caramelized and served with seasonal, elegant accompaniments.
#### **7. Scaleboyz Fish & Chips & More: A Crispy, Golden Treasure**
**Location:** (Check latest for precise address, as it's a popular food truck/stand)
**Vibe:** The No-Nonsense, Fried Food Haven
Sometimes, the best food comes from the most unassuming places. Scaleboyz is a Knightdale legend, often operating as a food truck or a simple counter-service spot dedicated to the holy art of frying. The focus is singular: incredibly fresh seafood, coated in a perfectly seasoned batter and fried to a shatteringly crisp, grease-less golden brown. This is eat-in-your-car or at a picnic table food, and it’s absolutely glorious.
**What to Order:** You are here for the **Fish & Chips.** Choose your fish—the flounder or tilapia are superb—and prepare for a revelation. The batter is light, airy, and impossibly crisp, giving way to moist, flaky fish. The fries (or chips) are thick-cut and satisfying. For the ultimate experience, get the **Seafood Platter** to sample fried shrimp, fish, and oysters. Everything is cooked to order, so be patient. The result is worth every second.
#### **8. Las Brasas: The Warmth of Peruvian Charcoal Fire**
**Location:** 4001 Widewaters Parkway
**Vibe:** The Family-Run, Authentic Peruvian *Polleria*
Las Brasas translates to the embers, and that’s the soul of this place: the mesmerizing, aromatic smoke from the rotisserie chickens turning over charcoal flames. This is a humble, utterly authentic spot where the food speaks fluent Peruvian. The atmosphere is simple and focused on the star of the show: the chicken.
**What to Order:** The **Pollo a la Brasa** (whole or half rotisserie chicken) is non-negotiable. The skin is marinated in a secret blend of Peruvian spices and vinegar, then roasted until it’s taut, smoky, and packed with flavor, while the meat beneath remains incredibly juicy. It’s served with two essential sides: a heap of **French Fries** that somehow taste better here, and the iconic **Aji Verde.** This creamy, spicy green sauce made with jalapeño, cilantro, and huacatay (Peruvian black mint) is liquid gold. Dip everything in it. Also, try the **Lomo Saltado**, a stir-fry of tender beef, tomatoes, onions, and fries served over rice—a beautiful fusion of Peruvian and Chinese influences.
#### **9. Bojangles: The Iconic Southern Fuel Station**
**Location:** 7525 Knightdale Blvd
**Vibe:** The Fast, Famous, and Unapologetically Southern Institution
No culinary tour of North Carolina is complete without paying homage to Bojangles. It’s more than fast food; it’s a cultural touchstone. The Knightdale location is a beacon, especially in the morning, with a line often snaking out the door. The air is thick with the scent of cayenne pepper and freshly baked biscuits. It’s chaotic, it’s fast, and it’s deeply satisfying.
**What to Order:** For breakfast, the **Cajun Filet Biscuit** is a rite of passage—a perfectly seasoned, spicy chicken filet nestled inside a fluffy, buttery, made-from-scratch biscuit. Add a side of their uniquely seasoned **Bo-Rounds** (potato rounds) and a sweet, Southern-style **Iced Tea** (half sweet, half unsweet is the local move). For lunch or dinner, the **2-Piece Dark Quarter** with dirty rice and a biscuit showcases their famous fried chicken, with its craggy, well-seasoned crust and juicy meat. The dirty rice, cooked with chicken livers and gizzards, is a flavor bomb for the brave.
#### **10. iPho Sushi Kitchen & Bar: A Pan-Asian Powerhouse**
**Location:** 4001 Widewaters Parkway H
**Vibe:** The Sleek, Contemporary Fusion Hub
iPho represents the modern, global face of Knightdale’s dining scene. It’s stylish, with a long sushi bar, comfortable booths, and a full bar. The name promises two things, and it delivers spectacularly on both: expansive, aromatic Vietnamese pho and a creative, fresh sushi selection. It’s the perfect spot for a group where some crave soup and others crave rolls.
**What to Order:** From the pho side, the **Beef Pho (Pho Tai)** is a classic. The broth is deep, clear, and fragrant with star anise and cinnamon, served with rare steak slices that cook in the bowl, rice noodles, and a garden of fresh herbs. From the sushi bar, the **Knightdale Roll** (or a similarly named house special) is a must-try—often featuring tempura shrimp, avocado, and a dynamic topping like spicy tuna or eel sauce. The **Crispy Pork Belly Bao Buns** are also a fantastic starter—soft, steamed buns filled with rich, sticky pork belly, pickled vegetables, and hoisin.
### **The Final Bite**
Knightdale’s culinary landscape is a beautiful reflection of America itself—a melting pot where classic diner coffee shares a zip code with Peruvian aji verde, where Texas mesquite smoke mingles with the steam from a Vietnamese pho bowl. It’s a town that honors its Southern roots with perfect biscuits while eagerly embracing global flavors. This tour is just your starting point. Each of these ten spots offers a unique window into the community’s heart and soul, one delicious plate at a time. So, grab your fork (or your chopsticks), explore, and taste the true, flavorful character of Knightdale. You might just find your new favorite place right around the corner.
Tucked just east of Raleigh’s bustling core, Knightdale, North Carolina, is often seen as a quiet suburban haven. But for those with a curious palate, it reveals itself as a vibrant tapestry of flavors, a place where down-home Southern comfort shakes hands with global culinary traditions. Forget the notion that you need to drive into the city for a memorable meal. Right here, along Knightdale Boulevard and tucked into friendly plazas, lies a dining scene ripe for exploration. So, pull up a chair, loosen your belt a notch, and join me, your local guide, on a mouthwatering journey through ten Knightdale establishments that define its deliciously diverse character.
#### **1. New York Diner: Where the Coffee is Always Hot and the Portions are Bigger Than Your Head**
**Location:** 909 McKnight Dr #1
**Vibe:** The Unpretentious, All-American Refuge
Step through the door of the New York Diner on McKnight Drive, and you’re immediately wrapped in the comforting aroma of sizzling bacon, fresh coffee, and griddle cakes. This isn't a themed restaurant; it's the real deal—a no-frills, family-run sanctuary for breakfast lovers, lunch breakers, and anyone craving authenticity over ambiance. The booths are well-worn, the chatter is friendly, and the servers call you hon without a hint of irony. The menu, a sprawling testament to classic Americana, can be daunting, but that’s where I come in.
**What to Order:** Start your day right with the **Big Apple Omelette.** This behemoth is stuffed with crisp bacon, savory sausage, diced ham, melted American cheese, onions, and green peppers. It’s a hearty, satisfying masterpiece that comes with your choice of grits or home fries and toast. For lunch, you cannot leave without trying their iconic **NYD Reuben.** Piled high on grilled rye, the corned beef is tender, the sauerkraut is tangy, the Swiss cheese is perfectly melted, and the Thousand Island dressing ties it all together in a messy, glorious package. Pair it with a side of their golden, crispy onion rings. Come hungry, leave supremely satisfied, with a to-go box that promises another meal.
#### **2. China House: A Knightdale Staple for Reliable, Flavor-Packed Classics**
**Location:** 7063 Knightdale Blvd
**Vibe:** The Consistent Neighborhood Favorite
In a world of fleeting food trends, China House stands as a steadfast pillar. Located in a bustling shopping center, it’s the go-to for families celebrating a good report card, friends sharing a casual dinner, and anyone needing a reliable fix of Chinese-American classics. The dining room is spacious and clean, often filled with the gentle clatter of plates and the low hum of conversation. The service is swift and attentive, making it perfect for both a relaxed sit-down meal or a speedy takeout run.
**What to Order:** While the menu is extensive, the true stars are their combination plates. For a perfect sampling, order the **House Special Lo Mein.** It’s a magnificent tangle of soft noodles wok-tossed with shrimp, chicken, beef, and fresh vegetables in a savory, not-too-salty brown sauce. The **Sesame Chicken** here is a benchmark—chunks of white meat chicken, fried to a delicate crunch, then draped in a glossy, sweet, and subtly nutty sauce that clings beautifully. Always start with an order of their **Crab Rangoons**—crispy wontons filled with a creamy, sweetened cream cheese and crab mixture that are utterly addictive.
#### **3. Kiko Japan Express: Quick-Serve Japanese with a Hearty Soul**
**Location:** 1018 Shoppes At Midway Dr Ste C
**Vibe:** The Efficient and Flavorful Lunch Counter
Don’t let the Express in the name fool you—Kiko Japan is about robust flavors delivered with speed and care. This is a counter-service gem where you can watch the chefs deftly work the teppanyaki grill. It’s bright, modern, and ideal for a fulfilling meal when you’re short on time but refuse to compromise on taste. The bowls here are legendary among locals in the know.
**What to Order:** The undisputed champion is the **Chicken Teriyaki Bowl.** It’s a masterclass in balance: a generous bed of steamed rice topped with tender, grilled chicken strips lavishly coated in a house-made teriyaki sauce that strikes the ideal sweet-savory note. It’s then piled high with a colorful medley of stir-fried zucchini, carrots, onions, and cabbage. For a richer option, the **Yaki Udon** with beef features thick, chewy noodles stir-fried with crisp vegetables and succulent beef in a deliciously umami sauce. It’s comfort food with a Japanese accent.
#### **4. Saltgrass Steak House: The Scent of the Texas Gulf Coast in North Carolina**
**Location:** 6601 Knightdale Blvd
**Vibe:** The Lively, Rustic Steakhouse Experience
When you catch a whiff of mesquite wood smoke near Knightdale Boulevard, you’ve found Saltgrass. This place brings a slice of Texas roadhouse spirit to town, with its warm, wood-heavy interior, cowboy artifacts, and a buzz of energy. It’s where you go for birthdays, anniversaries, or when you simply need to answer a primal craving for a perfectly cooked steak.
**What to Order:** Begin your cattle-drive feast with the **Texas Tonion**—a whole onion, cut blossom-style, fried until golden, and served with a zesty horseradish sauce. It’s a shareable, unforgettable starter. For your main event, the **7th Street Filet** is a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth tender cut that exemplifies their grilling prowess. If you’re feeling adventurous, the **Windy City Porterhouse** offers the best of both worlds—a strip and a filet. Make it a Steak & Shrimp combo to add their signature garlic butter shrimp. Every steak comes with their legendary loaf of hot, sweet wheat bread that alone is worth the visit.
#### **5. Hibachi K Express: Teppanyaki Theater, To-Go**
**Location:** 4001 Widewaters Parkway
**Vibe:** The Fast-Casual Hibachi Hack
Hibachi K Express solves a beautiful dilemma: how to get the thrilling, savory flavors of a hibachi grill show without the full sit-down time commitment. It’s a bright, clean, assembly-line style spot where you choose your protein, your rice, and your veggies, and watch as they’re cooked fresh on a large, sizzling teppan right before your eyes.
**What to Order:** Go for the **Steak & Chicken Hibachi Combo** with fried rice. You get the best of both worlds—juicy steak bites and tender chicken, all infused with that iconic soy-butter-garlic sauce that defines hibachi. The fried rice, studded with peas, carrots, and egg, is flavorful and never greasy. The portion is enormous, guaranteeing leftovers that reheat wonderfully. Don’t skip their **Yum Yum Sauce**—that creamy, slightly sweet, and tangy pink sauce is the perfect dip for every bite.
#### **6. Craften Neighborhood Food and Drink: Knightdale’s Culinary Crown Jewel**
**Location:** 706 Money Ct suite 101
**Vibe:** The Modern, Chef-Driven Neighborhood Gastropub
Craften is the restaurant that makes other towns jealous. Tucked away in a business park, it’s a destination that rewards the seeker. This is Knightdale’s fine-casual flagship, where the atmosphere is sleek yet welcoming, the cocktail list is creative, and the food is thoughtfully composed. It’s ideal for date night, a classy girls' night out, or impressing out-of-town friends.
**What to Order:** The menu evolves, but some signatures are eternal. Start with the **Pimento Cheese Fritters.** These are not your grandma’s pimento cheese; they’re crispy, gooey spheres of sharp cheddar and pimento, served with a pepper jelly for a sweet-heat punch. For an entrée, the **Craften Burger** is a must—a blend of premium beef, topped with bacon jam, smoked gouda, and garlic aioli on a brioche bun. It’s arguably one of the best burgers in the Triangle. For something lighter yet stunning, the **Seared Scallops**, when available, are always perfectly caramelized and served with seasonal, elegant accompaniments.
#### **7. Scaleboyz Fish & Chips & More: A Crispy, Golden Treasure**
**Location:** (Check latest for precise address, as it's a popular food truck/stand)
**Vibe:** The No-Nonsense, Fried Food Haven
Sometimes, the best food comes from the most unassuming places. Scaleboyz is a Knightdale legend, often operating as a food truck or a simple counter-service spot dedicated to the holy art of frying. The focus is singular: incredibly fresh seafood, coated in a perfectly seasoned batter and fried to a shatteringly crisp, grease-less golden brown. This is eat-in-your-car or at a picnic table food, and it’s absolutely glorious.
**What to Order:** You are here for the **Fish & Chips.** Choose your fish—the flounder or tilapia are superb—and prepare for a revelation. The batter is light, airy, and impossibly crisp, giving way to moist, flaky fish. The fries (or chips) are thick-cut and satisfying. For the ultimate experience, get the **Seafood Platter** to sample fried shrimp, fish, and oysters. Everything is cooked to order, so be patient. The result is worth every second.
#### **8. Las Brasas: The Warmth of Peruvian Charcoal Fire**
**Location:** 4001 Widewaters Parkway
**Vibe:** The Family-Run, Authentic Peruvian *Polleria*
Las Brasas translates to the embers, and that’s the soul of this place: the mesmerizing, aromatic smoke from the rotisserie chickens turning over charcoal flames. This is a humble, utterly authentic spot where the food speaks fluent Peruvian. The atmosphere is simple and focused on the star of the show: the chicken.
**What to Order:** The **Pollo a la Brasa** (whole or half rotisserie chicken) is non-negotiable. The skin is marinated in a secret blend of Peruvian spices and vinegar, then roasted until it’s taut, smoky, and packed with flavor, while the meat beneath remains incredibly juicy. It’s served with two essential sides: a heap of **French Fries** that somehow taste better here, and the iconic **Aji Verde.** This creamy, spicy green sauce made with jalapeño, cilantro, and huacatay (Peruvian black mint) is liquid gold. Dip everything in it. Also, try the **Lomo Saltado**, a stir-fry of tender beef, tomatoes, onions, and fries served over rice—a beautiful fusion of Peruvian and Chinese influences.
#### **9. Bojangles: The Iconic Southern Fuel Station**
**Location:** 7525 Knightdale Blvd
**Vibe:** The Fast, Famous, and Unapologetically Southern Institution
No culinary tour of North Carolina is complete without paying homage to Bojangles. It’s more than fast food; it’s a cultural touchstone. The Knightdale location is a beacon, especially in the morning, with a line often snaking out the door. The air is thick with the scent of cayenne pepper and freshly baked biscuits. It’s chaotic, it’s fast, and it’s deeply satisfying.
**What to Order:** For breakfast, the **Cajun Filet Biscuit** is a rite of passage—a perfectly seasoned, spicy chicken filet nestled inside a fluffy, buttery, made-from-scratch biscuit. Add a side of their uniquely seasoned **Bo-Rounds** (potato rounds) and a sweet, Southern-style **Iced Tea** (half sweet, half unsweet is the local move). For lunch or dinner, the **2-Piece Dark Quarter** with dirty rice and a biscuit showcases their famous fried chicken, with its craggy, well-seasoned crust and juicy meat. The dirty rice, cooked with chicken livers and gizzards, is a flavor bomb for the brave.
#### **10. iPho Sushi Kitchen & Bar: A Pan-Asian Powerhouse**
**Location:** 4001 Widewaters Parkway H
**Vibe:** The Sleek, Contemporary Fusion Hub
iPho represents the modern, global face of Knightdale’s dining scene. It’s stylish, with a long sushi bar, comfortable booths, and a full bar. The name promises two things, and it delivers spectacularly on both: expansive, aromatic Vietnamese pho and a creative, fresh sushi selection. It’s the perfect spot for a group where some crave soup and others crave rolls.
**What to Order:** From the pho side, the **Beef Pho (Pho Tai)** is a classic. The broth is deep, clear, and fragrant with star anise and cinnamon, served with rare steak slices that cook in the bowl, rice noodles, and a garden of fresh herbs. From the sushi bar, the **Knightdale Roll** (or a similarly named house special) is a must-try—often featuring tempura shrimp, avocado, and a dynamic topping like spicy tuna or eel sauce. The **Crispy Pork Belly Bao Buns** are also a fantastic starter—soft, steamed buns filled with rich, sticky pork belly, pickled vegetables, and hoisin.
### **The Final Bite**
Knightdale’s culinary landscape is a beautiful reflection of America itself—a melting pot where classic diner coffee shares a zip code with Peruvian aji verde, where Texas mesquite smoke mingles with the steam from a Vietnamese pho bowl. It’s a town that honors its Southern roots with perfect biscuits while eagerly embracing global flavors. This tour is just your starting point. Each of these ten spots offers a unique window into the community’s heart and soul, one delicious plate at a time. So, grab your fork (or your chopsticks), explore, and taste the true, flavorful character of Knightdale. You might just find your new favorite place right around the corner.
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