If you’re in downtown Raleigh, however, you can add one more certainty to that list: an unforgettable meal at Death & Taxes. Established in 2015, this award-winning restaurant is a crown jewel in James Beard Award-winning Chef Ashley Christensen’s culinary empire, celebrating the taste of wood-fire cooking.
The Vibe and History Located in a stunning historic building that coincidentally once served as a funeral home and later a bank (hence the brilliant namesake), the atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between elegantly moody and warmly inviting. It’s the ideal backdrop for a menu that relies on rustic techniques of roasting, grilling, and smoking.
A Feast for the Senses When you visit, preparing your palate for intense, wood-kissed flavors is a must. The essence of their menu is a classic staple: wood-roasted oysters. Nestled on a bed of rock salt, these oysters are typically dressed with a rich, vibrant chili butter and fresh herbs that melt right into the briny liquor of the shell under the heat of the open fire. It is an absolute must-order to kick off your dining experience.
Why It Belongs on Your Itinerary
Award-Winning Pedigree: Helmed by one of the most celebrated chefs in the South, ensuring top-tier hospitality and execution.
Wood-Fired Mastery: Almost everything on the menu is touched by fire, elevating simple, high-quality ingredients with complex, smoky depths.
Impeccable Sourcing: A deep commitment to local North Carolina farmers, fishers, and purveyors.
Curated Pairings: An outstanding wine list and inventive cocktail program designed specifically to cut through the richness of the wood-fired dishes.
Website: https://ac-restaurants.com/death-taxes/
Location: 105 W. Hargett St., Raleigh, NC 27601
Downtown Raleigh, NC
Contact: (984) 242-0218
Established 2015
Pro-Tip: Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends. Don't skip the roasted seafood starters, and always save room for whatever seasonal desserts they are pulling from the embers!