Discovering Regency’s Unique Food Scene
Nestled down tree-lined boulevards, flanked by the relaxed pace of Symphony Lake and lush office parks, Regency in Cary, North Carolina might be best known for its premier neighborhoods, family-friendly atmosphere, and the Koka Booth Amphitheatre. But for locals and curious foodies, Regency also offers a vibrant—if quietly unassuming—dining scene that ranges from upscale culinary experiences to cozy cafés and stellar sweets. With its mix of local favorites and destination-worthy eateries, here’s where to eat, sip, and savor around Regency.
Standout Restaurants: The Heartbeat of Regency Eats
Herons at The Umstead Hotel & Spa
*Location: 100 Woodland Pond Dr (off Regency Pkwy)*
For a truly spectacular meal, there’s no greater culinary landmark in Regency than Herons, located within The Umstead Hotel & Spa. This Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five Diamond restaurant consistently wows with its meticulously plated, seasonal American cuisine, helmed by chef Steven Devereaux Greene.
- Cuisine: Contemporary Southern/New American
- Price: $$$$ (tasting menus >$100 per person)
- What Makes It Special: Artistic tasting menus, locally sourced ingredients from the hotel’s own culinary garden, and a chic, tranquil dining room. It’s upscale, perfect for anniversaries or “treat yourself” nights.
Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen
*Location: 7307 Tryon Rd (corner of Regency Pkwy and Tryon Rd)*
A favorite for locals and visiting families alike, Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen dishes up a menu that celebrates classic Southern comfort food elevated with creative twists—think grit cakes with Cajun cream sauce or pecan-crusted catfish.
- Cuisine: Modern Southern
- Price: $$ (Entrées $18–$30)
- What Makes It Special: Rotating seasonal specials, regional ingredients, and a cozy, inviting ambiance that feels like coming home.
Totopos Street Food & Tequila
*Location: 1388 Kildaire Farm Rd (a quick hop north of Regency, worth the short drive)*
While not technically inside Regency, Totopos makes the cut due to its popularity with neighborhood locals. The vibrantly decorated eatery is known for authentic Mexican street food.
- Cuisine: Mexican/Latin American
- Price: $$ (Tacos from $3, entrées $15–$25)
- What Makes It Special: Dynamic tequila and cocktail menu, plus house-made salsas and street eats bursting with bold flavors.
Cafés, Coffeehouses, and Bakeries
La Farm Bakery
*Location: 220 W Chatham St (Main Street Cary, close and beloved by Regency residents)*
A French bakery institution in Cary, La Farm is where Regency locals head for truly spectacular breads, buttery croissants, and top-tier coffee. Their array of rustic loaves, pastries, and cakes make for the perfect breakfast or a leisurely afternoon treat.
- Cuisine: French bakery, coffee, breakfast/lunch
- Price: $–$$ (Pastries $3–$6, sandwiches $8–$14)
- What Makes It Special: Award-winning artisan breads, tempting coffee drinks, and seasonal pastries you can’t resist.
Crema Coffee Roaster
*Location: 1983 High House Rd (a Regency-adjacent morning favorite)*
This independent coffeehouse is a go-to for creative espresso drinks, pour-overs, and a quiet, cozy workspace. House-roasted beans and locally made pastries make Crema a can’t-miss for true coffee aficionados.
- Cuisine: Specialty coffee, light bites
- Price: $ (Drinks $3–$6, pastries $2–$5)
- What Makes It Special: Small-batch roasting, friendly baristas, and a real sense of neighborhood community.
Eats on the Go: Food Trucks and Fast Favorites
Food Truck Fridays at Koka Booth Amphitheatre
*Location: 8003 Regency Pkwy*
In spring and summer, one of Regency’s tastiest traditions is Food Truck Fridays at the amphitheatre. Vendors rotate weekly but often include everything from wood-fired pizza to Southern barbecue to vegan soul bowls.
- Cuisine: Eclectic/multi-cuisine
- Price: $–$$ (Most mains $8–$15)
- What Makes It Special: Sample bites from across the Triangle—plus live music and scenic lakeside vibes.
Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls (Regency Park Shopping Center)
*Location: 2022 Kildaire Farm Rd, #103*
For a quick taste of New England, head to Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls. Quick service, fresh seafood, and classic split-top buns packed with Maine lobster are a draw for Regency professionals and families alike.
- Cuisine: American/New England Seafood
- Price: $$ (Rolls from $15–$22)
- What Makes It Special: Authenticity—seafood is flown in, and the experience is all about simple, indulgent flavors.
Hidden Gems: Where Locals Really Eat
Bosphorus Restaurant
*Location: 329 N Harrison Ave (just outside Regency, but a lesser-known culinary treasure)*
For Turkish and Mediterranean flavors that will knock your socks off, Bosphorus delights with hand-rolled grape leaves, piping-hot pita, lamb kabobs, and impossibly creamy hummus.
- Cuisine: Turkish/Mediterranean
- Price: $$ (Most plates $12–$22)
- What Makes It Special: Warm, welcoming service and authentic family recipes make this an inviting spot for both date nights and group feasts.
Taipei 101
*Location: 1353 Kildaire Farm Rd (Regency-adjacent for takeout nights)*
When Regency locals crave Chinese, they often call Taipei 101 for their house specialties. The menu ranges from Taiwanese street eats to comforting noodle bowls.
- Cuisine: Chinese/Taiwanese
- Price: $–$$ (Wide range, many dishes under $15)
- What Makes It Special: Generous portions, authentic spice, and beloved bubble teas.
Sweet Treats and After-Dinner Delights
Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream
*Location: 1008 Ryan Rd (inside Regency, an award-winning dessert stop)*
An essential stop for families and sweet tooths, Andia’s churns out playful and indulgent ice cream flavors—like baklava, coffee chip, or vegan chocolate—using local dairy and creative mix-ins.
- Cuisine: Ice Cream/Dessert
- Price: $ (Scoops $4–$6)
- What Makes It Special: Friendly staff, inventive flavors, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe.
Final Bites: What Makes Regency a Dining Destination
While Regency in Cary keeps things a bit more tranquil than downtown hotspots, it’s exactly that blend of sophisticated tastes, local passion, and relaxed Southern spirit that makes its food scene shine. Whether you’re looking for an elegant tasting menu, comfort-laden soul food, a fresh pastry, or an unforgettable scoop of homemade ice cream, you’ll find Regency delivers for every craving and every budget. So grab your fork and come hungry—Regency’s neighborhood eats are ready to welcome you with flavor and Southern charm.