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ORO Restaurant & Lounge

3.8 (455 reviews)
Closed • Closed

ORO Restaurant & Lounge Photos

ORO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE ATMOSPHERE

What's the vibe?
Moderate noise
Trendy
Upscale
Good for groups

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Recommended Reviews - ORO Restaurant & Lounge

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Just had another wonderful meal at Oro! The small plates are beautifully presented, the food is delicious and the cocktails very inventive! Highly recommend!!

Andrea M.

It's been a couple of years since I had been here last. This place is known for their creative cocktails and tapas style dishes. Came here for restaurant week. The Smoked Old fashion looked cool but tasted not great. The potato pave for restaurant week was good and overall the dishes were solid but nothing that is going to stick out as a come back. We also had the scallops which were the best option as the fennel, blood orange and scallop were all a nice bite.

Sea bass + jerk chicken
Eric L.

First, our server wasn't just good, he was fantastic. He said he'd been at Oro for 13 years. Truffle Mac and cheese was perfect, just the right amount of truffle. Brussels were great, enough sweet to compliment the Brussels. Sea bass had a very nice flavor and a nice presentation. Jerk chicken is hot! Customers should be warned. Wellington was requested medium rare, but came out medium well.

Truffle Mac & Cheese 9/10 Brussel sprouts 9.5/10 Lemon drop 5/10 Other drinks 10/10
Shanel B.

Located in downtown Raleigh, Oro is a beautiful 2 story restaurant with floor to ceiling windows. It definitely gives date night, girls night out vibes. Our waiter was funny, nice and informative; however the menu offered very limited flexibility. For an example, I wanted to order a drink "neat" with absolutely no ice contact and was told that it was possible due to presentation. Oddly enough my cousin who was dining with me ordered the drink and the ice was nothing impressive and could've been left off in my opinion. Another example is when ordering the lamb chops, he wanted them prepare at medium well, but were told it could only come medium rare. However after much much negotiation the waiter agreed to have it prepared medium well. It did not come to the table medium well. I will rate the dishes we tried through the pictures. Overall experience was a

Lamb Chops
Shakira W.

Five Stars isn't enough! From the second I walked in, I felt welcomed--the customer service here is top-tier. Friendly, attentive, and genuinely warm, the staff made the whole experience feel personal and inviting. Now let's talk about the food--because WOW. I started with the calamari and brussels sprouts, and both were absolutely delicious. The calamari was light, crispy, and not the least bit greasy. The brussels sprouts were roasted to perfection--caramelized and bursting with flavor. For my main course, I had the whole white fish and the lamb chops. The fish was flaky, fresh, and seasoned beautifully. The lamb chops? So tender they barely needed a knife, and packed with rich, savory flavor. I washed it all down with a sweet Moscato that paired like a dream with every bite. Every dish I've tried so far has been a hit, and I'm already planning my return. I won't stop until I've tasted everything on the menu--because nothing has disappointed. Support Black-owned, support excellence--this spot is a must-visit!

Potatoes
Catie F.

We absolutely adored our time at ORO on NYE for dinner this year. We wanted somewhere to share plates that was also elevated vibes and near the action of the night. ORO checked all our boxes. The menu is really unique and fun so we were excited to try. We made reservations because of the holiday, but there was definitely a medium amount of seating downstairs and upstairs so a regular night you probably don't need them? It is decorated really classy and you can see the kitchen from downstairs seating. Our server was really attentive and friendly. She walked us through how they recommend sharing everything and everyone ordering 2-3 things each. We took the advice and along with two white wines we ordered the NY Strip, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Fingerling Potatoes, and a Charcuterie board. We asked for the steak medium rare, and it definitely came on the rare side. This was our only real slight disappointment of the night, and it was quickly made up for with how amazing the dishes tasted. My boyfriend and I agreed the truffle mac and cheese was our absolute favorite. It was delicious and the breading was perfect. Also just an us preference, but we are sick of cavatappi pasta for mac and cheese at every restaurant, so we loved that here it was made with elbows :). (We didn't mind the european kitchen where it all comes whenever it's ready, but it's nice to note before coming!)

Inside of the restaurant.
Antwain B.

Food was really good will definitely go back. Service was exceptional and ambiance was very nice. It's a small plate restaurant which a thoroughly enjoyed.

This picture is the s'mores dessert.
Rita R.

ORO is the best restaurant in Raleigh. I love the sticky ribs and the Mac and cheese. Love this place! The atmosphere is really beautiful and relaxing. Corey is the best waiter ever! He is so nice and very helpful!

Octopus
Cam A.

Came here for a birthday dinner and every bite was absolutely amazing. The portions are not big, but the plates are meant to be shared. If you order about 2 to 3 of the shared size plates per person will be satisfied and everyone will have a taste. The scallops and the cauliflower are a must order. Honestly, we had very few complaints about any of the dishes. The only thing we could've done without was the bone marrow. Our server was Corey. He gave us amazing recommendations and just contributed to our overall great night.

whole prawns
Jessica B.

Our tasty outing to Oro completely exceeded my expectations. We enjoyed amazing service and incredible food featured on the family style tasting menu. A few of my personal favorites included : - The grilled jerk chicken was super tender and full of flavor; my mouth 's still watering from thinking about it. The presentation was on another level and that Caribbean heat was on point. - The wild mushroom carbonara was a very savory dish which featured truffles, wild mushrooms, and duck pastrami. - The sesame cauliflower was tempura style and lightly coated with a sweet yet tangy chili sauce. If there is one thing I'm a fiend for, it's crispy cauliflower - The half-shell Peruvian scallops were unlike anything I've ever had. The scallops alone buttery and mildly sweet but, the combination of the citrus and tangy toppings put these morsels on another level. - the delectable whole prawns were a must have for any garlic lovers like myself . - The banana bread pudding was amazing but, the creme brûlée was literally the best I've ever had.... PERIODT!!! This place is perfect for a night out with friends or a romantic evening. Check them out

Maripily P.

Please, please stay away from this restaurant. We ordered 7 dishes and NOTHING was even average. I'm not one to leave bad reviews but this is the WORST restaurant I have been to.

Tempura Calamari
Ray L.

Great experience during restaurant week. Call atmosphere and nice large windows and a second floor. Service was amazing. They serve Tapas style dishes. I came here a few years ago and the quality and service was just as great. They easily accommodated aloud party of 9. We started with the bathtub hooch, passionista, few margaritas, and a sweet tea. They alcohol drinks were great! The sweet tea was just ok tho. It looked like ginger ale it was so light. For We started with the Brussels, calamari, and cauliflower. The cauliflower was one of the best ive ever had, so much flavor! The Brussels were great too. The cauliflower was a little underwhelming, could barely taste the meat and sauce was like a thick hot sauce. The seabass and brisket was good. The brisket came with like a potatoes au gratin type of side, pretty good. The salmon tempura was just ok, the sauce it came with was spicy. The lamb chops were good. The jerk chicken was SUPER SPICY! Beware! The oysters were good couldn't really taste the pork belly. For dessert, the churros were bomb!!! Creme was great as expected. The banana bread pudding was good, but not great. And the chocolate dessert was tasty and nice presentation! Overall great experience and definitely recommend! A few of the pics are from when I went before but they no longer serve it.

Bread pudding

We THOROUGHLY enjoyed our dinner at ORO. It is a large tapas plate type restaurant. Many years have passed since my wife and enjoyed such a palate pleasing experience. The escargot, octopus, mushrooms, and veal cheeks were absolutely divine. My wife enjoyed her perfectly seared and buttery Chilean Sea bass on a bed of short ribs (yes, short ribs). My libation of choice was the 007 martini - perfectly made and generously proportioned. When Cody found out it was our 20th wedding anniversary he brought out two glasses of champagne! As for dessert my wife chose the creme brûlée. I asked Cody to choose for me. The creme brûlée was excellent - creamy deliciousness . The mystery dessert was bread pudding. I was shocked but I quickly realized why - it was UNBELIEVABLY delicious! We now have a new favorite restaurant and look forward to our next meal at ORO. I honestly feel like we stumbled upon the Shangri-La of cuisine in Raleigh.

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I've been coming here many years and the food never disappoints. Try the cauliflower! It's soooo good

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Ask the Community - ORO Restaurant & Lounge

Where can I find the wine/cocktail list?

http://ororaleigh.com/menu/specialty-cocktails/

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Havana Deluxe - Inside

Havana Deluxe

4.3(85 reviews)
0.8 mi•North Boylan
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Great service and great spot to unwind!!!Always stop here for a stick when in Raleigh!!!!!read more

Stepping into the cigar bar feels like slipping into a well-dressed time machine that decided to…read moreloosen its tie. The air hums with the scent of tobacco, oak, and good decisions made slowly. Plush couches and deep leather chairs form little islands of comfort, perfect for sinking into a conversation that doesn't need to end soon. Along the walls, humidors stand like treasure chests, keeping their cigars in stately silence. Vintage wood glows everywhere--from the bar's polished surface to the beams above--each grain steeped in quiet history. Overhead, TVs flicker with old games and new ones alike, while dart boards wait nearby for a little friendly competition between sips of bourbon and curls of smoke. The bartender slides the Old Fashioned across the bar with the precision of a man who's been doing it long enough to know that showmanship is for amateurs. No fancy garnish, no chatter--just the soft clink of glass meeting wood and a nod that says this'll do. Happiness here isn't loud or glittery--it's slow-burning and pleasantly lopsided, like a jazz tune played just slightly off the beat. It seeps in between sips and smoke rings, wrapping itself around you like the worn leather of the chair you've claimed for the night. It's the kind that finds you sitting still, glass half full, smoke curling upward like a satisfied sigh. Cheers!

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4.7(14 reviews)
0.6 mi•Glenwood South

I have been stalking this hotel since its renovation, I guess you could call it a green renovation,…read moreboy is it impressive! I am a fan of vintage, especially vintage brought back to life in a tasteful manner with somewhat of a modern twist, this is exactly how I would describe the vibe here. They have a lovely bar area off of the lobby, it feels alive and quaint all at the same time. The bartender are a class act and one in particular even dressed the part, I was impressed. They also have a wonderful outdoor patio, where the old pool was, its a very comfortable place to sit and relax. They make an excellent "old fashioned", they also have a good selection of wine. I plan on returning for a staycation sometime in the future, I only wish they would have considered keeping the pool. Cheers!

Housed inside a hotel that absolutely oozes character, The Lounge at the Longleaf holds its own and…read morethen some. The space is effortlessly charming, with a retro-cool vibe that feels authentic rather than manufactured. The biggest surprise was the bar program. The bartender was a far better mixologist than you might expect from a hotel lounge, turning out cocktails that would be right at home in many of Raleigh's dedicated cocktail bars. It's easy to see why both hotel guests and locals seem to gravitate here. In an era where so many hotel bars feel like an afterthought, The Lounge feels like a destination in its own right. Between the welcoming atmosphere, quality drinks, and undeniable character, it's hard not to fall for this place. I can't say enough good things about The Lounge or the Longleaf Hotel itself. Both are a breath of fresh air.....preferably enjoyed with a cocktail in one hand and a beer chaser in the other.

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Longleaf Lounge - Espresso Martini

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FOUNDATION - Seasonal menu and famous Appletini which is not to be missed!!

FOUNDATION

4.4(332 reviews)
0.1 mi•Fayetteville Street
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This is a whiskey lover's dream and one of Raleigh's most unique drinking destinations. It's quite…read moreliterally underground as it's in a basement. With little signage the space feels like a natural speakeasy. It's unpolished enough to feel a little sleazy, yet polished enough to never feel dirty. In other words, it has character, and plenty of it. The bartenders were fantastic: knowledgeable, talented, and happy to chat about the spirits behind the bar. Whether you're a serious whiskey enthusiast or just looking for a well-made cocktail, you're in good hands. Being open later than most Raleigh bars makes Foundation one of the city's go-to late-night options, but that shouldn't overshadow what it really is........a great bar at any hour. The atmosphere, the drinks, and the people behind the bar make this a place worth seeking out whether it's your first stop of the evening or your last.

Foundation Bar offers a uniquely cool vibe, tucked away in a basement location that makes it easy…read moreto miss if you aren't looking for it. The interior features rotating art hung on the walls--which adds a great aesthetic and is even available for purchase if you fall in love with a piece. The drink menu is impressively extensive, and the bartenders certainly don't skimp on the pours; if you aren't a frequent drinker, one strong cocktail will definitely be plenty. The staff is consistently polite and welcoming, and the overall atmosphere makes for a solid night out. The only notable drawbacks are the lack of a food menu, not even offering small bites, and a noticeable smoke odor inside that might bother non-smokers. Still, it's a great spot for drinks and atmosphere.

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FOUNDATION - South side

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Foundation old fashioned

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Botanical Lounge

Botanical Lounge

4.0(55 reviews)
0.8 mi•North Boylan

Brunch at Raleigh Botanical Cafe with my girlfriends was exactly the kind of Sunday reset we…read moreneeded. From the seamless online ticketing to the elevated atmosphere, everything felt intentional. The DJ brought the energy, the food delivered, and the complimentary mimosa (with a virgin option available) was a nice touch. We sat both inside and outside, and even with the cold, gloomy weather, the outdoor heaters kept things warm and comfortable, which made the experience that much better. The weather may not have cooperated, but inside and out? Nothing but good vibes and great company. Effortless, fun, and definitely worth it.

2 stars I went to…read moreBotanical Lounge for their brunch buffet, and unfortunately, the experience was much more disorganized than I expected. The food itself wasn't bad, but the service and setup really took away from the experience. From the beginning, there seemed to be a lack of organization. You pay for the buffet at the host stand, but there weren't wristbands or another system to clearly identify who had paid. We were also seated and then asked to move because of a larger party. Our server told us we could start getting food while she helped another table and that she would come back for our drink order. About 20 minutes passed and we eventually had to flag her down. Since the restaurant seemed short-staffed, we decided to order two bottles of champagne rather than individual drinks so we wouldn't have to wait even longer. When we went to the buffet, there were no plates available. We brought it to someone's attention and waited several more minutes for plates before we could actually get our food. The food itself was decent, and there were dishes I enjoyed, so I don't think the issue was the menu. The brunch operation simply needs more structure and staffing. I think brunch should be reservation-based so the restaurant can better manage the number of guests and tables. There should also be a clear check-in/payment system with wristbands, more servers dedicated to drinks, someone bussing tables, and someone monitoring the buffet to keep everything stocked. It felt like the same handful of employees were trying to handle everything at once, which created unnecessary delays. It's unfortunate because the food wasn't bad, but the overall experience wasn't enjoyable enough for me to return. With better organization and staffing, I think this could be a much better brunch experience.

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Botanical Lounge - Bar area

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ORO Restaurant & Lounge - tapasmallplates - Updated October 2026

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