Char-Grill
Classic burgers and shakes, order by ticket since 1961
About
Downtown Raleigh's Char-Grill sits right on Glenwood Avenue, a no-frills fast-food joint that's been a local tradition since 1961. You order by marking a paper ticket and sliding it through a slot, then grab a seat at one of their picnic tables outside. It's casual, dog-friendly, and open late every night until at least 11pm, with weekend hours stretching past midnight. The place is known for burgers, fries, and shakes served Pepsi-style. The atmosphere is straightforward and unfussy, with a steady crowd of students and neighbors people-watching. If you're exploring other Raleigh staples, you might also check out Lilly's Pizza for a different local flavor. Regulars know it gets busiest around late night after bars let out. And if you bring your dog, you'll find water bowls under the tables.
Features
- ✓Order by paper ticket through a slot
- ✓Picnic tables for people-watching
- ✓Open until midnight or later on weekends
Good for
Practical
What people say
Rated from 154 reviews. 7 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
“I Don't Get It...”
This is a local staple I fail to understand. The burgers and fries are merely okay. Their ordering process involves filling out a paper slip and dropping it through a slot, which feels complicated and unwelcoming. My last visit ended with me giving up and walking to a nearby chain place instead.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“Great Burgers and Fries”
True to the menu sign advertising burgers, fries, shakes, and Pepsi, there are multiple locations including one on Hillsborough Street near downtown and a college campus. You order at the window and then sit at outdoor picnic tables to watch people pass by. They stay open until midnight or later.
A guest · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there outdoor seating? +
Yes, there are picnic tables outside for seating.
Can I bring my dog? +
Yes, Char-Grill is dog-friendly with water bowls under the tables.
More Restaurants in Raleigh
The Pit
3.8
Restaurants · $$ · 0.4 mi
Irregardless Cafe
4
Restaurants · $$ · 0.4 mi
Lilly's Pizza
3.5
Restaurants · $$ · 1.7 mi
EverLou Coffee Co.
Restaurants · 21 mi