We had a wonderful time here. We started with the Tavern downstairs, then made our way up to our table. The staff was friendly and the food was fantastic. Highly recommend for an upscale dining experience. I didn't have room for the dessert, but I hear it's worth trying. Next time!

My amazing man brought me here for my birthday. We ate in the atrium, which was a gorgeous setting for a meal. From the hostess to the wait staff, all service was excellent - best I've ever experienced. The food was beyond delicious and was beautiful, and totally worth the expense. I received a copy of the menu signed by the chef as well as a birthday candle in my dessert, such nice touches. We will return here again and again, with pleasure.

We went there for a team dinner, and it’s a fantastic spot for group gatherings. The decor is unique, as the restaurant is located in a mansion, which adds to the charm. The food and service were both fabulous. I highly recommend starting with the cheese plate and ending with the chocolate soufflé for dessert.

Perfect for couples or dinner party hidden gem in the heart of Raleigh. This place is one of a kind, and big shout out to Whitney + John, their service is impeccable, their attention + genuine conversations at the bar helps create this experience every time very enjoyable! Parking can be tricky, but that’s everywhere in downtown Raleigh these days. Highly recommend the short rib, French onion soup, duck, all desserts, both liquid and food. Wine list is extensive as well, pretty easy to navigate through. John + Whitney offer plenty of recommendations to pair with your dish too.

When in Raleigh, this is a must stop. Have a drink before dinner in their bar downstairs and then ascend the stairs for an incredible meal!

My wife and I went there for our anniversary and everything was perfect, food service and atmosphere. We reserved a table a week or so beforehand and I’d recommend that because all the tables were occupied when we were seated at 7:30pm on a Friday. Our server Matt was excellent and gave us an incredible breakdown of the menu, what to expect and his personal recommendations. Both swordfish (off menu) and the rack of lamb were superb. Would definitely visit again.

We made a reservation for our anniversary. Got there an hour early to enjoy the Tavern for a few drinks. Bartender was amazing both at his craft and as a person. After that we were seated and the server and assistant were absolutely amazing. They clearly take a lot of pride in there service. What's left? The food. I can honestly say I have probably never had a better meal. We enjoyed the 7 cheeses plate, amazing. The pre dinner bread was top notch. The entree's were out of this world. I can't rate this place high enough!

This was my first ever time going to a fine dining restaurant, 'Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern' was very beautiful. I have never tried crème brûlée before, but it was perfect. I would definitely recommend that to anyone that wants to taste something sweet and light. Our server, Holly, was very sweet, nice and professional. She provided us with lots of recommendations from the menu and even politely answered any questions my date and I may have had. Her service definitely gets a five star from us all around! We will be coming back and trying other courses soon!

Per a recommendation from a good friend, my husband and I planned a Date Night in Raleigh to include a dinner reservation at this amazing restaurant. Our waiters made everything about this experience delightful. The knowledge, time and care that they put in to not just our, but everyone's dinner, made the experience more then worth any price point. The food, drinks and presentation were phenomenal. I am not sure what room we were seated in, it was a little on the darker side and way more relaxed. We will for sure be back.

Celebrating our 31st anniversary! We thoroughly enjoyed our evening. Destiny and the rest of the staff were the tops! Highly recommend!