It’s that time of year again, folks! Graduation and Mother’s Day are right around the corner. With NC State University just down the road (spring commencement takes place Saturday, May 3, 2025) and Mother’s Day falling just a week later on Sunday, May 11, 2025, this is a super busy time for the local restaurant industry.
Our restaurant, Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar, notoriously books up with families and friends getting together to celebrate their grads and mothers, and La Terrazza, which opened at the beginning of May 2024, is also a popular choice in Downtown Raleigh. All that said, it’s crucial to make your dinner reservations as soon as possible. We encourage you to book your tables now, especially for bigger groups!
Naturally, our beautiful restaurants are a great space to host family and/or friends, especially those coming from out of town. Mulino’s moody, low-lit interior is great for intimate conversations, while the bar stays buzzy and serving up excellent craft cocktails, beer, and wine. And then there’s the stunner of our partially covered patio! May weather is famously perfect in Raleigh, so an alfresco meal is ideal.

Additionally, if you have a large party, there’s the Palace Room, which seats up to 40 guests and offers several predefined menu options, as well as customizable menus. You can also choose wines and spirits to enhance the occasion!
As one of Downtown Raleigh’s newest rooftop restaurants, La Terrazza is a great spot to show off to your visitors. Offering elevated dining across the vibrant sun-filled interior, tiled bar, and awe-inspiring terrace, there’s not a bad seat in the house. The gorgeous views of the skyline make for a great backdrop for photos!
When it comes to Mulino and La Terrazza’s food offerings, there’s a host of options for everyone. Think lighter salads (perfect for springtime!), shareable appetizers like arancini and fritto misto, pizzas (also great to share!), freshly made-in-house pastas, meaty entrees, and sweet desserts. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are also available upon request.
La Terrazza also has a special parties food menu for parties of 7 to 24 guests—no room rental fee required. At $70 per person, you can take your pick of hors d’oeuvres, salad, pasta entrees (meat entrees are available at an upcharge), and a chef’s choice dessert. Of course, you’re free to pick and choose some bottles and other drink options to pair along with it as well!
Book Your Table for Graduation and Mother’s Day Now!
Don’t delay getting a seat for your loved ones this spring to celebrate these special holidays and accomplishments. Tables at Mulino and La Terrazza will go fast! Make a reservation at Mulino here—or request our Palace Room here. And make a reservation at La Terrazza here—or request the special parties menu here.
