Situated near NC State University, Meat & Bite is where college students, locals, and hungry night owls collide for big flavors in a no-frills setting.
Born during the pandemic, this family-owned spot serves up halal-certified comfort food with a twist—think smashed burgers and kofta tacos, hot fried chicken and chili dogs.
The owners, Leila and Mohammad, pour heart into every dish, turning fast-food staples into something worth lining up for.
Open until 2 AM on weekends, it’s the ultimate post-game or study-session pit stop.
Food Highlights
- Double Smashed Burger 🍔: Juicy beef patties with crispy edges, melted American cheese, tangy aioli, and pickles on a soft bun. The #1 crowd-pleaser, praised for its perfect balance of crunch and juiciness.
- Hot Fried Chicken Sandwich 🌶️: Crispy, brined chicken breast drizzled with hot sauce and cooled by creamy aioli. A must-try for heat seekers—add extra spice if you dare!
- Chicken Tacos 🌮: Tender, marinated chicken breast topped with cilantro, salsa verde, and cheese. Reviewers call these “the best tacos in Raleigh”—no exaggeration.
- Garlic Parmesan Wings 🍗: Crispy wings smothered in garlic-parmesan sauce. Pro tip: Swap honey chipotle for this savory option.
- Meat & Bite Special 💥: Two sliders, tenders, or hotdogs + fries + drink for $17. Ideal for indecisive eaters craving variety.
- Mozzarella Sticks 🧀: Golden fried with marinara for dipping. The cheese pull alone is worth the order.
Atmosphere
Step inside, and you’ll find bench seating, an open kitchen, and a chalkboard menu screaming with comfort food. The vibe?
Think late-night diner meets neighborhood hangout. Staff greet regulars by name, and Mohammad often roams the dining area, handing out free waters or dessert samples. 🥤
Students huddle over shared fries, while post-game crowds cheer over wings. It’s loud, lively, and unapologetically greasy—a place where “grandma’s cooking” meets fast-food speed.
Why It’s One of the Best in North Carolina:
- Halal-certified, never frozen: Meat is brined, marinated, and cooked fresh daily.
- Fusion done right: Mediterranean spices mingle with Southern comfort in every bite.
- Community heartbeat: Free meals for those in need and hugs from the owners? Yep, that’s the vibe.
- Late-night hero: Few spots serve crave-worthy tacos or burgers past midnight.
❤️ Pro tip: Ask for the “secret” biscoff cheesecake cup—if you’re lucky, Leila might just hook you up.
Address: 2908 Hillsborough St., Raleigh, NC 27607