Wakefield Tavern, located at 13200 Falls of Neuse Rd in Raleigh, NC, has quickly become a beloved spot for food lovers seeking a casual yet delightful dining experience. Renowned for its inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, particularly from standout server Jess, patrons rave about the attentive and friendly staff. Diners are particularly impressed with the culinary offerings, especially the Atlantic Salmon Caesar salad—a highlight for one customer who described it as the best she’s ever had, with perfectly cooked salmon and a delicious homemade ranch dressing. The tavern's menu embodies quintessential pub food: from the perfectly seasoned fish and chips to the inventive Reuben quesadilla, every dish is crafted with care and creativity. For those looking to indulge in libations, Wakefield Tavern boasts a fantastic craft cocktail menu, featuring unique choices like the Blood Orange Aperol Spritz and Hemingway's Mistress. Diners share that the cocktails enhance the lively atmosphere, making it a fabulous spot for gatherings. With reasonable prices and generous portions, it’s no wonder that many patrons, like TK Miller and Joe Becker, return frequently, claiming Wakefield Tavern as their go-to eatery in the area. With a blend of hearty comfort food and a welcoming environment, Wakefield Tavern is a must-visit for both locals and visitors alike.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers kerbside pickup
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great dessert
Has great wine list
Has live music
Good for watching sport
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves late-night food
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Photos
Reviews For Wakefield Tavern
C C
Jun 1,2025
My daughter & I are here a week ago. Our server, Jess, was absolutely terrific: attentive in every way; personable, knowledgeable, friendly accommodating. The Atlantic Salmon Caesar salad (my “go to” at restaurants) was the best I’ve ever eaten anywhere! The salmon came out hot off the grill, cooked to perfection. The romaine lettuce was fresh, crisp, & very green. Homemade croutons were to die for. The homemade ranch dressing was delightful in flavor. I want the owner to open a tavern like this in Raleigh (but in MY zip code)!
Joe Becker
May 29,2025
Had lunch at Wakefield Tavern with a good friend. We both enjoyed a nice Saturday Morning Hazy IPA from Neuse Brewing! I had a Cowboy Burger with grilled onions, cheddar cheese and jalapenos but no bacon or BBQ sauce. I like BBQ sauce on chicken but not on a burger. My friend had the Patty Melt on Rye bread! I really enjoy this tavern and go there every time I’m in the area!
TK Miller
May 4,2025
Quintessential pub food. We started with the Philly cheese steak eggrolls. They were crunchy flaky fried on the outside and stuffed with the soul of a Philly cheese steak. No need to pick Geno's or Pat's. The cheese dipping sauce here is an elevated compliment to the tender steak filling. The fish fillets are thick, crispy fried, tender, and hearty. They might only be beat by a London chippie but I am skeptical. The chips are well seasoned and perfectly compliment the fish. The Reuben quesadilla is the best Reuben I've ever had. The corned beef is not too salty, as has been my experience, and as such, allows the flavours of the sauerkraut and dressing to mingle well with it. The shrimp and grits is divinely done, creamy, well seasoned, lots of good sized shrimp, and a filling portion. In fact, all the portions are heavy and the prices are very reasonable. I really don't know how they do it. Finally, the carrot cake is a don't miss. It has a lovely texture and a not too sweet cream cheese icing that allows the perfectly spiced cake to shine. Service was terrific, friendly and fast. Just get here.
Katie Olson
May 3,2025
Ask for Jessie. She is bubbly and knowledgeable about the menu. Always checked back with us. We love her personality! Food is amazing. We tried the Totchos appetizer and split the Fish & Chips. Their spring cocktail menu looks delicious. I had the Pomegranate Spritz. Check them out. Get there before 5:30 on a Saturday to beat the rush. It got busy real fast! We will definitely be back to try other entrees and the risotto.
John P
May 2,2025
I've known the owner, Anthony, for many years. I met him when he was a bartender at Pipers. He was a great bartender. I watched the transformation of the Front Row to Wakefield Tavern. He made this place what is is. Great food,great service, and great atmosphere. My server today was Jessie. She serves you with a smile and was very attentive. Great job.
Steve (BigGreek)
Apr 21,2025
Stopped in here for dinner a couple weekends ago and it was a fantastic experience. My waitress was super attentive, but gave me time to finish eating without trying to rush me out to get someone else in the seat. Got the house queso and salsa for an app, they were pretty damn good. I couldn't tell if the chips were made in house or not, but they were good regardless! I got the Southwestern Quesadilla for my meal and that was also fantastic! It had a ton of flavor and was super filling. I will absolutely be coming back here! House queso & Salsa - 7.8/10 Southwestern Quesadilla - 8.5/10
Mary Ashleigh Yacenda
Apr 11,2025
My mother and I went out to dinner here and we had a fabulous experience! The food was fresh and crisp (mom got a Caesar salad with salmon and said it was the best she’s ever had! I had the buffalo chicken wrap with house made chips). Our server, Jess was very helpful and friendly and we really enjoyed her service! I love that the food is local when possible and everything was made in house. I also really enjoyed the mocktail menu! Highly recommend and we will return!
Alyson Smith
Feb 7,2025
Our book club has had a big, boozy brunch here two years in a row and we have LOVED it. Jessie is a fantastic server! So cheerful and sharp - she never forgot anything even with 14 of us! The food is always very tasty, and the Bloody Mary is top notch.
Reviews For Wakefield Tavern