Herons

Herons

⭐ 4.7/5 (764 reviews) 💰 $100+ per person American

📍 The Umstead Hotel and Spa, 100 Woodland Pond Dr, Cary, North Carolina

Restaurant Information

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.7/5.0 • 764 reviews
📍 Address
The Umstead Hotel and Spa, 100 Woodland Pond Dr
Cary, North Carolina 27513
📞 Phone
🌐 Website
💰 Price Range
$100+ per person
🍽️ Category
American

⏰ Opening Hours

Monday7–10 am11:30 am–2 pm
Tuesday7–10 am11:30 am–2 pm5–8:30 pm
Wednesday7–10 am11:30 am–2 pm5–8:30 pm
Thursday7–10 am11:30 am–2 pm5–8:30 pm
Friday7–10 am11:30 am–2 pm5–9 pm
Saturday7 am–1 pm5–9 pm
Sunday7 am–1 pm

ℹ️ About This Restaurant

Nestled in the heart of Cary, North Carolina, Herons is a vegan oasis that exudes an air of sophistication and tranquility. As you step through the door, you're greeted by a cozy, intimate atmosphere, with soft lighting and a touch of modern elegance. The restaurant's design effortlessly blends natural elements, like sleek wooden accents and lush greenery, creating a serene and inviting environment that sets the tone for a truly memorable dining experience.

Herons' menu is a testament to the culinary prowess of its chefs, offering a diverse array of delectable vegan dishes that cater to every palate. From their signature seasonal dishes to their impressive selection of cocktails, coffee, and tea, each item is carefully crafted to showcase the finest plant-based ingredients. Whether you're in the mood for a satisfying breakfast, a power-packed lunch, or an indulgent dinner, Herons has something to tantalize your taste buds. Standout menu items include their renowned vegan burgers, their creative takes on classic comfort foods, and their decadent desserts that are sure to leave you craving more.

The service at Herons is nothing short of exceptional, with a team of attentive and knowledgeable staff who are dedicated to ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. The restaurant's commitment to quality and attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the customer journey, from the seamless reservation process to the impeccable table service. With a price range that reflects the high-quality offerings and the overall upscale ambiance, Herons provides an unparalleled value proposition, making it a must-visit destination for both vegan enthusiasts and those seeking a culinary adventure.

Features & Amenities

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park Has wheelchair-accessible entrance Has wheelchair-accessible seating Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Has outdoor seating Serves dine-in No delivery No takeaway
Highlights
Serves great cocktails Serves great coffee Serves great dessert Has great tea selection Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for breakfast Popular for lunch Popular for dinner Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol Serves beer Serves cocktails Serves coffee Serves healthy options Has private dining room Serves spirits Serves vegetarian dishes Serves wine
Dining options
Serves breakfast Serves brunch Serves lunch Serves dinner Serves dessert Has seating Has table service
Amenities
Has bar on site Has toilet Has Wi-Fi Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Cosy Quiet Romantic Trendy Upmarket
Crowd
Good for groups LGBTQ+ friendly Popular with tourists
Planning
Brunch reservations recommended Lunch reservations recommended Reservations required Dinner reservations recommended Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards Accepts debit cards Accepts NFC mobile payments
Children
High chairs available Has kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot Plenty of parking Valet parking
Pets
Dogs allowed outside

🏮 Atmosphere & Ambiance

Stepping into Herons is like entering a serene, sophisticated oasis nestled in the heart of Cary, North Carolina. The restaurant's elegant decor exudes a warm, contemporary vibe, with soft lighting that creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The neutral color palette, accented by natural wood and touches of greenery, gives the space a calming, eco-friendly feel, perfectly complementing the restaurant's commitment to sustainable, plant-based cuisine.

The seating arrangements at Herons are thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of dining experiences. From intimate tables for two to larger, communal seating areas, the layout offers an array of options for solo diners, couples, and groups alike. The well-spaced tables and plush, comfortable seating create an ambiance that is both refined and relaxed, encouraging guests to linger and savor the culinary delights on offer.

🌿 Dietary Accommodations

  • Gluten-Free Options - A variety of gluten-free entrees, desserts, and baked goods made with alternative flours.
  • Raw Food Choices - Selection of raw vegan salads, appetizers, and desserts featuring fresh, uncooked ingredients.
  • Nut-Free Alternatives - Nut-free sauces, dressings, and substitutions for those with nut allergies or intolerances.
  • Keto-Friendly Items - Low-carb, high-fat vegan dishes featuring avocado, coconut, and other healthy fats.

⏰ Best Times to Visit

  • Weekday lunch - Enjoy a tranquil dining experience with colleagues or solo, savor the restaurant's signature vegan dishes, and indulge in their impressive wine selection.
  • Friday dinner - Treat yourself to an upscale and romantic dining experience, with a lively atmosphere and the opportunity to sample their innovative cocktails and desserts.
  • Weekend brunch - Gather friends and family for a leisurely brunch, indulge in their renowned vegan dishes, and sip on their selection of specialty coffees and teas.

⭐ What Makes Us Special

  • Innovative Plant-Based Cuisine: Herons offers a creative and diverse menu featuring expertly crafted vegan dishes that showcase the restaurant's commitment to showcasing the full potential of plant-based ingredients.
  • Sustainable Sourcing and Preparation: The restaurant sources its produce from local and organic farms, ensuring the highest quality and minimizing its environmental impact. Dishes are prepared with meticulous attention to detail, highlighting the natural flavors of the ingredients.
  • Exceptional Dining Experience: With its elegant and cozy atmosphere, impeccable service, and an extensive selection of craft cocktails, wine, and specialty beverages, Herons provides an unparalleled dining experience that caters to both vegans and non-vegans alike.

📍 Local Area & Neighborhood

Herons is located in the charming town of Cary, North Carolina, known for its vibrant downtown area and thriving arts scene. The restaurant is situated just a short walk from the Cary Arts Center, which hosts a variety of cultural events and performances throughout the year. Nearby, visitors can explore the serene McGregor Downs Park, with its scenic walking trails and picturesque lake.

Herons attracts a diverse clientele, from health-conscious locals to tourists exploring the region's culinary delights. The restaurant's commitment to plant-based cuisine and sustainable practices makes it a popular destination for vegans and environmentally-conscious diners. With its upscale ambiance and attention to detail, Herons has become a go-to spot for special occasions and romantic dinners, offering a truly unique dining experience in the heart of Cary.

💬 Customer Reviews

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"The Crab Benedict was delicious. The hollandaise sauce really enhanced and married all of the different flavors in this ..."

— Customer #1
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"We came here to celebrate our anniversary, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. This James Beard Award-winning restau..."

— Customer #2
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"My fiancé and I had dinner here to celebrate my birthday and it was amazing all around. The restaurant is gorgeous, the ..."

— Customer #3