***Please note that this Shopping + Dining at North Hills in North Carolina Guide will be updated and recirculated periodically to reflect the most up-to-date information. This guide was most recently updated as of November 2025.***

Over on my Instagram (let’s be friends @_thepinkchickadee) over the past few months, I have shared a bit about my recent brief experiences visiting Raleigh, North Carolina and more specifically enjoying the city’s well-known North Hills Shopping District. I also visited North Hills a lot throughout my college years when I was a student at Meredith College and made several memories during that era of my life. One of my favorite memories at North Hills was shopping at the Lilly Pulitzer store there! North Hills has so many adorable shops and restaurants that those local to Raleigh and visiting can enjoy. This Shopping + Dining at North Hills in North Carolina Guide will outline everything you need to know before you go!

*Disclaimer: Please note that this post contains affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through one of my links, then I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no extra cost to you. Additionally, this post is not sponsored, and all opinions are my own.*

For more United States travel inspiration, check out my Exploring 50 States expedition page.

Shopping + Dining at North Hills in North Carolina Guide

 

About North Hills in North Carolina:

Originally a strip mall and then constructed into an enclosed mall in the 1960’s known as North Hills Mall, North Hills in North Carolina has transformed over the decades into what it is today. At the time of its construction as an enclosed mall in 1967, North Hills Mall was the only two-story indoor mall between Atlanta and Washington, DC. North Hills transformed into what it is today in 2001 when Kane Reality Corporation bought the mall site, reopening it in 2004 into what it is and continues to evolve into today. Today, North Hills in North Carolina is a well-known multi-faceted district offering opportunities to live, work, and play in the heart of Raleigh’s Midtown. Offerings include Four-Star hotels, restaurants, shops, apartment complexes, and signature events throughout the year. One of the most unique things about North Hills in North Carolina is that there is truly something for everyone to enjoy, whether it be indulging in some luxury shopping at one of the many options such as Chanel or Lilly Pulitzer or grabbing a Starbucks while you stroll and shop or catching a movie and admiring the art displays.

Note: It is also worth noting that North Hills has a strong Code of Conduct and Parents Onsite policies, to ensure the safety of all who live, work, and play there.

Getting There:

Driving: North Hills is located just off of North Carolina’s I-440. Like most of Raleigh, North Carolina, it is easiest to reach North Hills by car – the City of Oaks has several rental car options. There are multiple parking opportunities in front of shops and restaurants. Depending on where you plan to eat, shop, or dine at, I would suggest taking a peak on North Hills’s Interactive Parking Map beforehand to look up parking options, as they differ throughout the shopping district.

Flying/Train: If either flying or taking Amtrak from out of town, Ubers are readily available and accessible around town. If you plan to stay at North Hills, then there are 3 onsite hotels offering several walking opportunities to ALL the shopping, dining, and events offered.

 

North Hills’s main address is: 4321 LASSITER AT NORTH HILLS AVE. RALEIGH, NC 27609

Dining + Shopping Options:

There are several dining and shopping opportunities at North Hills. As I’ve previously mentioned, there is something for everybody when it comes to having a good time in the heart of Midtown Raleigh! Whether it be a Target run, clothing shopping at Lilly Pulitzer, Anthropologie, or Charlotte’s, or wine-ing and dining at Firebirds, Coquette Brasserie, or RH Rooftop, you’re sure to have a wonderful time. That all being said, I have listed a few shops and restaurants that I’ve enjoyed when in North Hills.

Dining at North Hills

Please note that I will be focusing on local and popular dining options, as opposed to bigger chain restaurants and cafes. For the full dining list at North Hills, look no further than here.

Village Tavern – Originally opening its doors at its first location in Winston Salem, North Carolina, Village Tavern prides itself on serving up affordable and delicious Southern fare while being a great place to both work and dine at. If you love Shrimp & Grits, then you must try them!

Restoration Hardware’s RH Rooftop – The popular luxury home furnishings brand’s RH Rooftop has made its way to Raleigh calling North Hills its home! Before you go, be sure to check out my experiences at RH Rooftops across the country here.

Vivace – Having been voted one of the Triangle’s “Top 20 Best Restaurants,” Vivace provides guests with delicious Italian fare in a cozy and chic atmosphere. If you’re a Brussels Sprouts lover like myself, then be sure to order them as an appetizer!

STIR – Having a made-from-scratch menu, STIR focuses on premium cocktails, oysters, and much more. If you’re an oyster-loving gal like me, then you must try them at STIR!

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill – A polished-casual restaurant specializing in wood-fired American cuisine, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill has it all from steaks to seafood and cocktails. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the wine wall!

Coquette Brasserie – An authentic French Brasserie centered around a spectacular zinc bar. Weekend brunch at Coquette Brasserie is a favorite!

Shopping at North Hills

Please note that I will be focusing on local shopping options, as opposed to bigger chain shops. For the full shopping list at North Hills, look no further than here.

Quail Ridge Books – Founded by Nancy Olson in 1984, Quail Ridge Books is an independent bookstore that carries a curated selection of books and hosts discussion groups, events, and town Hall meetings. The staff at Quail Ridge Books are known for being friendly and helpful!

Pink Chicken – Pink Chicken is adorable Mommy and Me apparel store carrying a collection of versatile items in block prints and with a vintage flair that will take customers from play dates to barbecues to Saturday dinners on the town.

Paperbuzz – A favorite local shop for 20+ years, Paperbuzz offers a wide array of gifts from formal to eclectic, including wedding invitations. Merchandise is from popular brands including Scout Bags and Weezie Towels.

Lilly Pulitzer – Although a popular resort wear brand nationwide (and beyond!), I firmly believe that every Lilly Pulitzer storefront is different (including their uniquely hand-painted dressing rooms!). The staff at North Hills are always excited to help customers find the best clothing to brighten their daily lives.

Charlotte’s – Charlotte’s prides itself on their customers being at the cutting edge of gifts, fashion, and home accessories, whether it be $30 earrings or designer diamond rings.

Wrap-Up:

Whether it be a local shop or restaurant or a nationwide favorite shop or restaurant, North Hills in North Carolina truly has it all when it comes to shopping and dining! On my recent visits to Raleigh, North Carolina, I have really enjoyed getting to shop and dine at North Hills. Indeed, there is SO much to enjoy without even leaving North Hills. Til next time!!

XOXO – Katie <3