Hidden Gems of Hillsborough Street: A Local’s Guide

By Carolina Collective Realty

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Looking for great food, fun vibes, and a stroll-worthy spot all in one? Hillsborough Street delivers on all three. It’s full of spots you might overlook, but each one is worth a stop. Everything is within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy a casual outing without going far.

Players Retreat. One of the first spots I love is the Players Retreat, affectionately known as the PR. This place has been around for decades, and it’s easy to see why it’s stuck around; it serves some of the best local food and drinks, and the crowd is always interesting. You’ll find everyone from politicians to college professors to students here, which makes for a really fun and lively vibe. It’s a spot I always recommend checking out because it really captures the spirit of the area.

Mitch’s Tavern. If you’re looking for a casual spot off the beaten path but still right in the middle of everything, Mitch’s Tavern is a must. Founded in 1974 by a former NC State grad student, Mitch Hazouri, it has a lot of history. You might recognize it from the 1988 movie Bull Durham, which starred Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon, as parts of the film were shot right here. It’s a popular hangout for students, teachers, alumni, and anyone wanting a taste of the local flavor. Mitch’s Tavern even became a designated historic landmark in Raleigh in 2014, so you know it’s worth a visit.

Gussie’s Restaurant. Just down the street from the other two is Gussie’s Restaurant. Don’t let its small size fool you, because this place is full of character and charm. You can choose to eat inside or enjoy the outdoor seating, and one thing you definitely don’t want to miss is the crispy Brussels. It’s another great spot that really makes this section of Hillsborough Street special.

Trophy Pizza and Brewing. If you haven’t been yet, it’s worth checking out. The indoor dining is comfortable and casual, but the outdoor patio is one of the largest and nicest I’ve seen for outdoor dining in the downtown area. The menu is fantastic across the board, so it’s hard to pick just one thing to highlight. All of these spots are close enough that you can walk between them, which makes exploring this area easy and fun.

If you haven’t spent much time on this stretch of Hillsborough Street, it’s definitely worth it. From longtime favorites to charming restaurants with a big personality, these spots offer a little something for everyone and make a perfect casual outing. I’d also love to show you around! Just reach out to me at gene.carolinacollectiverealty.com and I’ll be right there with you.