It’s easy to save room for dessert when you put it first, right? While the main courses at Second Empire and absolutely delicious, and we’ll get to that, you really want to make sure to save room for some of their homemade desserts. In fact, you might as well just order it first, and break the rules! You’ll certainly want to when you check out the menu. Let’s take a closer look at this neighborhood favorite.

Nestled in historic downtown Raleigh, Second Empire is one of those restaurants you have to see to believe.

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Housed in the beautiful resort Dodd-Hinsdale House, this elegant eatery has been delighting locals since it opened in 1997.

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern/Facebook

You can’t help but marvel at the detail in this 19th-century house. “Charming,” “elegant,” and “welcoming” are just a few of the words that come to mind when you step into a place like this.

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The menu is filled with exquisite steak and seafood dishes, all changing seasonally based on what’s the freshest around.

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern/Facebook

From grilled quail to roasted sea scallops, there’s something for everyone here.

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But before you fill up on the main course, be sure to check out their dessert menu.

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Made in-house daily, their dessert menu will satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth.

Pamela Moore/Google

Vanilla bean creme brûlée, chocolate layer cake, and even homemade ice creams and sorbets fill up the dessert menu.

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern/Facebook Their key lime pie, pictured above, has won awards, so if you see it on the menu be sure to order a slice.

For more information, be sure to check out their website and give them a follow on Facebook.

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Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern/Facebook

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Samantha Holloway/Google

Pamela Moore/Google

Their key lime pie, pictured above, has won awards, so if you see it on the menu be sure to order a slice.

Have you ever dined at Second Empire? What’s your favorite dessert? Let us know in the comments below!

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Address: 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27603, USA