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Weddings

About

Imagine a dining experience that combines an atmosphere of classical history and elegance with a selection of cuisine that is as exquisitely unique as it is delicious. Then imagine delighting your senses with a world-class wine selection. Now imagine finding this right here in the Triangle. It’s not imagination, it’s Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern. Located in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House in downtown Raleigh, Second Empire satisfies the highest of standards. Our delectable menu and polished service that have won us the AAA Four Diamond Award, the DiRoNa Award and the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence since 1998 will assure you a truly unique dining experience. Our Tavern and new Atrium Room provide a more casual feel and lighter fare menu without sacrificing excellence. Simply put, a trip to Second Empire is an experience unlike any other.

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Frequently asked questions

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

7

Describe your venue:

Historic Building
Mansion
Restaurant

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party

What event services do you offer?

Event Planner
Event Rentals

What event items are available?

Chairs

What food and beverage items are available?

Linens
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Any other questions?

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4.7 out of 5 rating
15 Reviews
  • Quality of service
    4.6 out of 5 rating
  • Average response time
    4.2 out of 5 rating
  • Professionalism
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Value
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Flexibility
    4.9 out of 5 rating
93% Recommended by couples
A
Allison Sent on 09/11/2016
5 out of 5 rating
Great venue for wedding. Beautiful
A
Amy Sent on 02/21/2014
5 out of 5 rating
Very helpful with all the arrangement and detail
C
Carmen Sent on 09/21/2010
5 out of 5 rating
I couldn't have asked for a more perfect setting for my wedding than Second Empire. Tracy, the Events Coordinator, helped me from the very start to craft my vision of how my ceremony and reception would shape up. The room where we held our ceremony was beautiful, with a bay window just behind the bride and groom, where the light was amazing. The atrium, where we had our reception, was breathtaking - we were surrounded by glass. The photographer couldn't stop taking pictures of the little details in the decor.

The food was awesome, and yes, we got to eat it! I've now had three wedding guests tell me that when they come back for a visit, they want to go to Second Empire for dinner.

For smaller weddings, Second Empire would be THE go-to location for a wonderful day.
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Awards

15

Professional Network & Endorsements

2 Endorsements
Alexanders Studios Alexanders Studios Wedding Photographers

I had the pleasure of shooting a wedding at The Second Empire. The staff was incredible, the food was amazing and the venue itself was stunning. I would highly recommend the second empire for your intimate gathering. Stephen Alexander Alexanders Studios

Robert F. Filcsik Photography Robert F. Filcsik Photography Wedding Photographers

This is actually such a unique restaurant. Yes, they cater and their food is top of the line which I highly highly recommend. But in addition, the restaurant is amazing! It's a combination of history and elegance. The restaurant itself is in the Dodd-Hinsdale House in downtown Raleigh. Give it a try! You may even book them for your next event!

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Second Empire frequently asked questions

The space offered by Second Empire for wedding events is known for:
  • Historic Building
  • Mansion
  • Restaurant
Second Empire offers the following indoor/outdoor options for weddings:
  • Indoor
  • Uncovered Outdoor
Second Empire offers the following types of wedding events:
  • Ceremony
  • Reception
  • Bridal Shower
  • Engagement Party
Second Empire offers the following services for wedding events:
  • Event Planner
  • Event Rentals
Second Empire offers the following furniture and decor items for weddings:
  • Chairs
Second Empire is recommended by 93% of couples who have used their services. Their overall rating is 4.7 out of 5 with the following breakdown: 4.9 in flexibility, 4.8 in professionalism, 4.8 in value, 4.6 in quality of service and 4.2 in average response time.

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