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Fine Dining in Cary

Indulge in Fresh Dishes Made with Locally Sourced Ingredients

A passion for locally grown fruits and vegetables and farm-fresh meats and seafood is evident in the exquisite food and beverage offerings throughout The Umstead Hotel and Spa in Cary, North Carolina. Led by four time James Beard Semifinalist and celebrated chef, Steven Greene, these fresh flavors, surprising food combinations and striking presentations are the trademarks of every appetizer, meal or signature cocktail that we offer. Our restaurant proudly uses ingredients locally sourced from over 14 nearby farms, including our very own two-acre culinary plot - One Oak Farm

At The Umstead, a sublime culinary experience isn't limited to within the well-appointed walls of Herons restaurant. Rather, guests can taste spectacular, locally sourced seasonal delights in a cabana by the pool or at a cozy table in The Umstead Bar while savoring Afternoon Tea or simply by ordering room service. 

The Bar & Lounge

The Bar & Lounge at The Umstead Hotel and Spa is the perfect place to begin or end a memorable evening. Our wine cellar is stocked with an extensive collection representing the world's most renowned regions/ Furthermore, our signature culinary inspired cocktails offer a truly unique taste that incorporates the season's best flavors. With live entertainment in the evenings, you'll find that the fare on our bar menu is impressive and imaginative in the spirit of Herons.

The Bar & Lounge operates under limited availability and is unable to accommodate party sizes larger than 8 in the dining area. Please contact us for further information.”

Chef preparing a meat dish

Culinary Team

Under the direction of Executive Chef Steven Greene, our culinary team masterfully takes food from seed to plate. Working with Culinary Farmer Daniel Holloman to carefully plan the crops at our One Oak Farm, our chefs envision the creative and tasteful menus of seasons ahead. The Culinary Team takes each harvest and crafts plates that emphasize the nuances of each season with meticulous preparation and presentation. Their imaginations and our native soil create progressive American regional cuisine in an intricate and artful form.

Culinary Farm

The Umstead is pleased to offer homegrown vegetables and herbs from our nearby dedicated farm.

2023-11-25

Tea with Santa *FULLY BOOKED*

*All Dates are Fully Booked*

Join us this winter for our annual Tea with Santa series. Let your children ages 10 and under delight in this magical event as they enjoy a special visit with Santa and let him know what is on their wish list this holiday season.  Santa will share photos of his favorite memories as he tells stories of his helpful elves and reindeer.  Tea with Santa includes photography, a small gift, and hot chocolate service with savory and sweet morsels.

2023-12-01

White Truffle Tasting Menu

Tis the season gourmands across the country wait for, White Truffle season! This rare treat is only available from autumn through December, and merits a special White Truffle Tasting Menu during the month of December when the truffles are at their peak. Available only in Herons,  the menu showcases the “white diamond of Italy”, balancing the flavors of this most delicate and rare truffle in the world with seven courses of carefully selected ingredients, providing a sensory experience unlike any other.

2023-12-12

December Uncorked: Holiday Bubbles

We’re in full holiday mode for the final Uncorked of 2023! Join us for a very special lineup of all sparkling wines from around the world, featuring of course Champagne. These selections will also be available for purchase to help complete your holiday gift list. The evening includes savory pairings from the Umstead chefs, making for a festive event to toast the season!

2023-12-19

December Uncorked: Holiday Bubbles

We’re in full holiday mode for the final Uncorked of 2023! Join us for a very special lineup of all sparkling wines from around the world, featuring of course Champagne. These selections will also be available for purchase to help complete your holiday gift list. The evening includes savory pairings from the Umstead chefs, making for a festive event to toast the season!

2023-12-24

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day Dinner

Christmas dinner at The Umstead combines our signature warm hospitality & festive decor with the magic of the holiday season for a truly unforgettable culinary celebration. Herons Executive Chef and four-time James Beard Semifinalist Steven Greene and his culinary team will showcase their talent and the best seasonal produce from our organic farm with a four course dinner with choices.

Featuring holiday classics and a few surprises, all with artful and elegant presentations, this event is guaranteed to be a feast for the eyes and palate.

2023-12-31

Herons New Year's Eve Dinner

Set the tone for a wonderful year ahead by welcoming 2024 with an exquisite meal and festive toast at Herons. Enjoy an inspired four-course dinner with choices prepared by Executive Chef Steven Greene as you look ahead to the New Year.

2023-12-31

Champagne & Caviar

Celebrate New Year's Eve in luxury with an amazing meal based on one of the finer culinary pairings in history: Champagne and Caviar. Allow our exceptionally knowledgeable Wine Director, Hannah Barton, to take you on a true epicurean journey through five courses of caviar dishes paired with the most exceptional bottles of Champagne from our cellar.