Raleigh & Cary Date Night: Dinner and a Movie Pairings

Few things are more timeless than dinner and a movie — but in the Triangle, you can elevate this classic date night into something unforgettable. With its mix of award-winning restaurants and unique theaters, Raleigh and nearby Cary offer endless ways to pair great food with film. Whether you’re planning a first date, celebrating an anniversary, or just craving a fun night out, these dinner-and-a-movie pairings guarantee a memorable evening.

Downtown Raleigh Date Night

The Rialto Theatre + Stanbury
Start with dinner at Stanbury, known for its inventive menu and cozy vibe. Afterward, enjoy an indie or classic film at The Rialto Theatre, Raleigh’s historic cinema. This pairing is perfect for couples who love conversation and a touch of nostalgia.

Alamo Drafthouse + Brewery Bhavana
For an immersive all-in-one experience, Alamo Drafthouse serves craft beer, cocktails, and upscale comfort food right to your seat. Pair it with pre-movie dim sum at Brewery Bhavana, a nationally acclaimed brewery and restaurant.

North Raleigh Date Night

Cinemark Bistro Raleigh + Vivace
Catch a blockbuster at Cinemark Bistro Raleigh, with reclining seats and a modern vibe. Pair it with handmade pasta and fine Italian wine at Vivace for a sleek yet romantic evening.

Regal North Hills + STIR
At Regal North Hills, you’ll find everything from major releases to indie flicks. Pair the show with dinner at STIR, where oysters and cocktails are the stars. A stroll through North Hills afterward seals the date.

Cary Date Night

Paragon Theaters at Fenton + Colletta
For a luxury date night, head to Paragon Theaters at Fenton, offering premium seating and Dolby sound. Before the film, enjoy modern Italian dining at Colletta, located steps away in Fenton’s lively mixed-use district.

CMX CinéBistro at Waverly Place + Enrigo Italian Bistro
At CMX CinéBistro, you’ll experience a true dine-in movie with gourmet meals and cocktails served during the show. To extend the evening, start with appetizers or post-movie dessert at Enrigo Italian Bistro, a neighborhood gem.

The Cary Theater + Academy Street Bistro
For couples who love indie films, documentaries, or live performances, The Cary Theater offers an intimate setting. Pair it with dinner at Academy Street Bistro, just a short walk away, for French-inspired cuisine and small-town charm.

Family-Friendly Twist on Date Night

Marbles IMAX + Beasley’s Chicken + Honey
For parents making date night a family outing, Marbles IMAX delivers stunning visuals on its massive screen. Pair it with fried chicken and waffles at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey — a Raleigh favorite kids and adults love.

Seasonal & Special Pairings

Summer Outdoor Movies at Dix Park + Transfer Co. Food Hall
Pack a picnic from Transfer Co. Food Hall and head to Dorothea Dix Park for a skyline-view screening. It’s one of the most relaxed, budget-friendly ways to enjoy dinner and a movie together.

NC Museum of Art Outdoor Films + Iris Restaurant
Catch an outdoor screening during the NCMA film series and enjoy dinner at Iris Restaurant on-site. This pairing blends culture, food, and cinema in a uniquely artistic setting.

Tips for a Perfect Date Night

When planning your dinner and movie date, consider:

• Reserve ahead – Raleigh and Cary’s most popular restaurants fill up quickly.

• Match the vibe – Pair upscale theaters with fine dining, or indie spots with cozy local gems.

• Add a walk – Fenton, North Hills, and Downtown Cary all have built-in strolling spots for after the credits roll.

Conclusion

From luxury theaters in Cary to historic cinemas in Raleigh, the Triangle makes it easy to turn a simple night out into a memorable experience. Whether you’re into Italian fine dining, Southern comfort food, or cozy bistros, there’s a perfect pairing waiting for your next dinner and a movie date night.

Welcome to the show. 🎥