Real home-cooked American food — from breakfast to dinner — served with Southern hospitality in Carthage, North Carolina. The kind of place that feels like Grandma's kitchen.
Pete's Family Restaurant has been a beloved gathering place in Carthage and Moore County for decades — a true community institution built on generous portions, honest prices, and food that tastes like it was made just for you.
Every dish at Pete's is prepared with the kind of care you'd expect at a family table. From fluffy biscuits to hearty country fried steak to fresh-baked pies, this is real American cooking — not shortcuts and not chains.
Pete and his family run a wonderful place, and that personal touch shows in every detail — from the staff who remember your name to the kitchen that sends out hot, fresh food with consistency and pride.
From all-you-can-eat fried flounder to the legendary clam chowder that tastes like a day at the beach — Pete's seafood menu is a standout, with fresh-tasting options from catfish to sea scallops to broiled salmon.
Pete's Family Restaurant has received recognition beyond just local praise — the diner's cooking has been featured on Fox News, a testament to the quality that keeps guests returning from Carthage, Southern Pines, and well beyond.
A wide spectrum of traditional American choices — all hot, fresh, and served with a smile.
All-breast super special chicken dinners — as good as any you've ever had, say longtime regulars.
Tender, fresh clam meat in a soup that tastes like you're sitting at the beach. Guests order bowls to go.
Fresh-fried flounder, served until you're satisfied. One of the most popular dinner options at Pete's.
Crisp lettuce, feta, olives, and pepperoncini with special Greek dressing and toasted pita bread.
Huge portions, premier quality, and half the price you'd pay anywhere else. Worth saving room for.
Spaghetti, fettuccini alfredo, chicken parmigiana, manicotti — a surprisingly great Italian menu.
Rated 4.6 out of 5 across more than 1,500 reviews — here's what guests from Carthage and beyond say about Pete's.
This place is a hidden gem. They got somebody's grandma working in the kitchen cause the food was elegant and expertly made. The clam chowder was so good we each had a big bowl and then bought bowls to go. The clam meat was so tender and fresh — the soup tasted like we were at the beach.
— Verified GuestWide spectrum of traditional American menu choices. Fried Chicken is as good as I've ever had. Dessert pies and cakes are huge in portion, premier in quality, and half the price you'd pay anywhere else. Breakfast menu is to die for. This restaurant is the go-to choice in Carthage for any occasion.
— Allmenus ReviewerThe staff is wonderful, especially Jadra, Rachelle, Brenda, Amber, Dema, and Tina. The food is hot and fresh. The cooks Adrianna and Peanut make food fast. Pete and his family run a wonderful place. Jamie is a witty and fun server. Your drink will always be full.
— Regular GuestOne of my favorite go-to places for quick and delicious meals in the Southern Pines/Carthage area. Very clean and very well run. Never have had anything but an excellent southern style meal and southern hospitality.
— Google ReviewerGreat home-style food. Good for family, meetings, or by yourself. Pete's always has great food at a reasonable price. It's a regular for abundant portions of local favorites. It is very busy during dinner time but wait times aren't excessive.
— TripAdvisor ReviewerThis is truly the perfect example of a family restaurant. It has what you would expect Grandma to make for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It also has the true feeling of a family get-together, with friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere.
— Food96 ReviewerPete's is open every day of the week from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM — including weekends. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all served daily.
4088 US Highway 15-501, Carthage, NC 28327. Conveniently located in Moore County, about 12 miles from Southern Pines and easily accessible from the Pinehurst / Sanford area.
Guests consistently rave about the clam chowder, the fried chicken dinners, the all-you-can-eat flounder, and the homemade pies and cakes. The Famous Greek Salad is also a standout that regulars return for.
Yes — Pete's offers takeout, delivery, and dine-in service. Call (910) 947-3077 to place a takeout order. Delivery is also available through Grubhub.
Yes, reservations are accepted. Dinner service can get busy, so calling ahead is recommended for larger groups. Call (910) 947-3077.
Yes — there is a dedicated kids' menu (10 and under) with options including chicken nuggets & fries, spaghetti with garlic bread, grilled cheese & fries, and hamburger & fries.
Yes — the restaurant is wheelchair accessible. On-site parking is also available.
| Mon – Sun | 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |