Lindsay Rice’s Favorite Places to Eat & Drink

The wine bar Vita Vite’s owner shares her go-to places to grab a bite to eat, a cocktail and cup of coffee.
by Catherine Currin

For our 2023 Guide to Where to Eat and Drink in the Triangle, we surveyed a dozen food industry folks to find their go-to spots for everything from an elegant date night to a casual drink, to the best place to bring someone in from out-of-town. One of those folks was wine bar Vita Vite’s owner Lindsay Rice. Translating in Italian to life and wine, Rice’s wine bars attract locals for their top-notch wine list, charming atmosphere, art and small plates. When Rice isn’t orchestrating running the community wine space, here’s where you can find her at meal and coffee times. 

Where do you like go for a craft beverage?

Standard Beer + Food. When it’s hot outside I can drink their watermelon margaritas all day.

What’s your go-to dive?

Can’t beat a shot and wings at High Park.

Where do you go for a date night spot?

I hate to do a shameless plug, but Vita Vite is a great date night spot!

What’s your favorite new spot?

I can’t wait for Cuya to open (the new cocktail bar above Cortez) try the cocktail program they’ve been building there.

Photo credit: Cortez Seafood + Bar

Where do you take out-of-towners?

Cortez. I’m a big fan of everything they do, and it’s a great place to show off the diversity of Raleigh’s food scene.

What’s your go-to coffee spot?

Jubala. We love having them as our new neighbors in North Hills!

Where do you like to go for brunch?

Neuse River Brewing: My favorite local spot to frequent on a Sunday (or any other day they’re open, for that matter).

Where would you go and what would you eat for your last meal on earth?

Poole’s Diner roast chicken and mac and cheese.

What chef should we keep an eye on?

Chris Lopez. It’s been awesome to watch Fine Folk open and take off.

What’s a spot that’s worth the drive?

Mother & Sons. I’d make that drive every week for their cacio e pepe.

What’s your favorite food truck or place for take out?

Take out pizza from Oakwood Pizza Box

Where do you go for weekday lunch?

Wilson’s. It’s a great place to sit at the bar and do work and have lunch.

What’s your favorite place for international cuisine?

MOFU Shoppe

This was originally published on December 29, 2022 on waltermagazine.com