Some restaurants earn their place in the neighborhood by standing the test of time, and Bloomsbury Bistro has been doing just that since 1995. Nestled in Raleigh’s historic Five Points, this French-inspired American bistro is one of those hidden gems that locals whisper about, but never keep to themselves for long.
Led by Chef Owner Stephen Koster, the menu changes with the seasons, focusing on the freshest local ingredients available. The result? A dining experience that always feels fresh, yet familiar - whether you’re here for a casual lunch, a romantic dinner, or an evening at the bar sipping wine and chatting with friends.
The Perfect Spot for Any Occasion
Bloomsbury Bistro is the definition of versatile. You can cozy up to the bar for an impromptu glass of wine, make date night extra special in their warmly lit dining room, or reserve one of their private event spaces for a more intimate celebration. And if you’re an oyster lover, you’ll want to mark your calendar - Oyster Happy Hour brings $1 oysters that are as fresh as they come.
Dinner: Small Plates, Big Flavor
The dinner menu is a beautiful balance of small and large plates, giving you the chance to mix, match, and share. Start light with a Burrata Green Salad, summer-fresh Gazpacho, or a Port Poached Peach that feels almost too pretty to eat. Or go savory with an Heirloom Tomato Tart or Tuna Tataki.
Their large dinner plates bring comfort, with a refined twist. Think Pan Seared Scallops, Blackened Striped Bass, and Pistou Fettuccini that will make pasta lovers swoon. There’s also a Chicken Pot Pie that feels like a warm hug and a Short Rib Fried Rice that’s pure comfort food with a bistro edge.
Lunch: Tucked Away, Worth the Hunt
At lunch, the menu feels approachable yet elevated, like it’s inviting you to slow down for an hour and enjoy yourself. Starters include a crisp, classic Nicoise salad, crispy okra, and shrimp spring rolls. Salads here are anything but boring; order the salmon, ahi tuna, or classic cobb, and you’ll see what we mean.
If you’re in the mood for a sandwich, try the mushroom wrap, the savory pastrami reuben, or a perfectly dressed shrimp Po’boy. And for mains, the chicken salad plate, salmon cake, or meatloaf will keep you coming back. Don’t skip the sides! Bacon-braised green beans, Mediterranean pasta salad, broccoli salad, and bistro fries all deserve a spot at the table.
Wine, Cocktails & Sweet Endings
The wine list here is no afterthought; it’s extensive and thoughtfully curated, with plenty of bottles to explore. Pair your meal with a glass, or make an evening of it with a bottle for the table. If cocktails are more your speed, the Espresso Martini is a standout, and a sip of Limoncello after dinner feels like the perfect final note.
Desserts are where the bistro’s French influence truly shines. The Flourless Chocolate Torte is rich and decadent, while the Vanilla Cheesecake, topped with praline sauce, candied pecans, and whipped cream, might just steal your heart. For something lighter, the raspberry sorbet is refreshing and full of flavor.
Why Locals Keep Coming Back
Bloomsbury Bistro has been part of Raleigh’s dining story for nearly three decades because it delivers on every front: thoughtful food, a welcoming atmosphere, and a sense of place that’s hard to find. It’s the kind of spot you stumble upon once, but then find yourself recommending to everyone you know. Because sometimes, the best meals are tucked away, just waiting for you to find them.
Bloomsbury Bistro in Raleigh
509 W Whitaker Mill Rd Ste 101, Raleigh, NC 27608
(919) 834-9011
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Lunch
Monday - Friday 11:00 - 2:00
Dinner
Monday - Thursday 5:00 - 9:00
Friday - Saturday 5:00 – 10:00
Sunday - Closed
