When it comes to special occasions, we all have that one 'staple' restaurant we go to. Perfect ambiance, juicy steak, assortment of beverages from wine to craft cocktails; and most important of all, always consistent. Anniversaries, birthdays, events, or even just a Friday night out, for over 50 years many have considered The Angus Barn in Raleigh their staple.

Since 1960, The Angus Barn and its legacy have persisted through many changing times. House aged steak, stellar seafood, one of the largest wine cellars in the country; there's a bit of the finer things here yet you still feel right at home.

The Angus Barn has been around for over 50 years. From the past to now, it continues to be a central dining spot of not only Raleigh residents, but all in the Triangle. Since first opening, it's achieved over 200 awards and been ranked #2 Best Steak Restaurant by Wine Spectator.

Different sections of the restaurant have their own unique feel. Like the Wild Turkey Lounge - the decorations are notable and it makes the ambiance both romantic and adventurous. If turkeys aren't your thing, there are private dining rooms, event venues, and the Meat Locker smoking lounge.

There's plenty to take in here, but the steak is the main event. Each month, Angus Barn serves around 20,000 dry-aged steaks. Depending on which cut you're looking for (there are nine to choose from) or how rare to medium rare you want to get, its far and few between to not get a perfect steak. Just when you thought it couldn't get better, you're treated to six different sauces and a topping. Iron Chef America winner, Walter J. Royal serves as head chef. Aside from steak, there's also fresh NC seafood, and BBQ ribs.

For a twist on a classic, try the Filet Oscar Style. Hollandaise brings remnants of a breakfast classic but blends with the steak, not to mention lump crab meat and asparagus. Don't forget to wash it down with one of the many cabernets on the menu. While a steakhouse at heart, many love to stick to the classics but stray from the path every now and then with the menu.

Not to mention, there's a Colt gun display.

Have I mentioned dessert? Aside from having one of the best pies in the state, the Chocolate Chess Pie, other options are equal parts fun and fancy. A work of art (almost) too sweet to eat, the Chocolate molten cake topped with vanilla ice cream and raspberries, paired with dessert wine.

While the food is amazing, the wine cellar is even more impressive. The Angus Barn has maintained receiving the Wine Spectator Restaurant Award since 1989. Many of the restaurant's now and former employees have passed the sommelier course, which is no easy feat. The wine cellar itself is almost as impressive as the collection. The Angus Barn represents all the major wine producing countries and states within their collection. The cellar is cozy, beautiful, and almost otherworldly.

Today, the Angus Barn has grown past steaks and onto what it does best, hosting people in a stellar ambiance. The Bay 7 at American Tobacco Campus and the Pavilion at the Angus Barn are sought-after event venues.

Sure, the Angus Barn might grow, change add and adapt, but one thing is true - it always has the same feel time after time. It's a steakhouse, it's a place for a special event, it's a dressed up Saturday night just because. It really is timeless.

I absolutely love the Angus Barn! Have you been here before? What are your 'staple' steakhouses in North Carolina?

You'll find The Angus Barn at

9401 Glenwood Ave

Raleigh, North Carolina

Know before you go - while you might be tempted to fill up on appetizers and steak, save room for a slice of their amazing chocolate chess pie.