News Summary
Raleigh, N.C. has seen an unexpected increase in restaurant sales during the summer months, a time usually marked by slower business. Local restaurateurs are responding with expansion plans, such as Flour and Barrell’s new locations along Fayetteville Street and in Research Triangle Park. This growth is attributed to ongoing population increases and heightened tourism, with reports indicating a record-breaking $47 million spent by visitors on food and beverages. The continued revitalization of Downtown Raleigh is also boosting foot traffic, creating new opportunities for local dining establishments.
Raleigh’s Restaurant Scene Experiences Unexpected Summer Sales Increase
Raleigh, N.C., has recently witnessed an unexpected surge in restaurant sales during the summer months, a period traditionally marked by slower business. This rise in revenue has prompted local restaurateurs to expand their operations, reflecting optimism about the city’s evolving dining landscape.
Surge in Summer Sales Despite Seasonal Expectations
Typically, summer tends to see a dip in restaurant activity due to residents and visitors vacationing. However, business owners have reported otherwise, with some indicating a notable increase in patronage. One notable example is Flour and Barrell, where owner Anthony Rapillo observed rising customer numbers and higher dining-out frequency compared to previous years. Despite having anticipated a challenging summer season, Rapillo attributed the positive sales to Wake County’s ongoing population growth, which is fueling demand for diverse dining options.
Expansion Plans Driven by Growing Demand
In response to these favorable sales trends, Rapillo is planning several expansion projects, including three new restaurants set to open along Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh. Additionally, he is developing a new location in Research Triangle Park (RTP). These developments aim to capitalize on rising customer interest and increased foot traffic driven by demographic changes.
Other Local Business Leaders Report Growth
Similarly, Chris Powers, Co-Owner of Trophy Brewing, reported rising sales figures, reinforcing confidence in ongoing expansion efforts. The company is nearing completion of its sixth location, Trophy Brewing Five Points, which is scheduled to open by the end of October. The positive developments are also reflected nationwide.
National and Regional Data Highlight Growth Trends
Nationwide, restaurant sales increased by 0.7% in August, marking the fourth consecutive month of growth within a six-month period. This growth is supported by recent economic reports indicating recovery and resilience in the restaurant industry. In May 2022, restaurant sales grew by 4.9%, only slightly down from 5.3% in April, demonstrating consistent growth despite initial pandemic-related setbacks. However, some months also saw declines, such as a 2.9% drop reported in May, which echoes previous downturns seen in late 2019.
Local Tourism and Residency Stimulate Food and Beverage Growth
Visit Raleigh’s annual report recorded a record-breaking $47 million spent on food and beverages by visitors, highlighting the role of tourism in the local economy. Downtown Raleigh, in particular, has seen a year-over-year increase in food and beverage sales, supported by substantial residential growth. Over the past year, more than 1,300 residential units have opened in the area, expanding the total housing stock to over 10,000 units.
Revitalization and Increased Foot Traffic
Downtown Raleigh’s ongoing revitalization has contributed to rising business activity. The sector is experiencing an influx of new storefronts, with 33 opening in the first quarter of 2025 alone. Residential development, including more than 200 housing units being added quarterly, has driven increased foot traffic, creating more opportunities for restaurants and food service establishments.
Local Business Perspectives on Growth
Restaurant operators are noting a positive shift in customer experience qualities, with improved service quality reported over the year. This trend is supported by regional feedback, with some major cities in Florida leading in restaurant sentiment rankings in May, yet Raleigh also performing well in food and service satisfaction metrics.
Summary of Key Data
- Raleigh’s restaurant sales experienced an unexpected summer surge, prompting expansion efforts.
- Flour and Barrell owner Anthony Rapillo cited demographic growth as a key factor.
- The city’s restaurant scene includes plans for new locations on Fayetteville Street and in RTP.
- Trophy Brewing is nearing completion of its sixth location, aiming to open by October.
- National restaurant sales rose 0.7% in August, with consistent growth in recent months.
- Visit Raleigh reports a record-breaking $47 million spent on food and beverages by visitors.
- Over 1,300 residential units have opened in downtown Raleigh in the past year, with more than 10,000 total units now available.
- Increased residential development correlates with more foot traffic and business opportunities.
FAQs
What has caused the unexpected summer sales increase in Raleigh?
Restaurants in Raleigh reported an increase in sales during the summer, a typically slower season, due to ongoing population growth and increased demand for dining options.
What expansion plans are underway in Raleigh’s restaurant scene?
Owners are planning to open three new restaurants on Fayetteville Street in Downtown Raleigh and one in Research Triangle Park.
How are national trends reflecting on the local scene?
National restaurant sales increased by 0.7% in August, marking the fourth month of growth within six months, indicating resilience and recovery.
What role does residential growth play in Raleigh’s restaurant success?
Over 1,300 new residential units have opened in the past year, bringing the total to over 10,000, which has increased foot traffic and business opportunities for restaurants.
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Additional Resources
- News Observer: Raleigh’s Restaurant Scene
- Wikipedia: Raleigh
- Restaurant News: Restaurant Sales Remain Positive
- Google Search: Restaurant Industry Growth
- Restaurant News: Sammy’s Sliders Enters Q2
- Google Scholar: Restaurant Expansion Trends
- FSR Magazine: Chef Alex Smith
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant Business
- ABC11: Downtown Raleigh Businesses
- Google News: Dining Trends Raleigh
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
