Animazement 2026 Raleigh: Best Restaurants Near the Convention

Attending Animazement 2026? Element Gastropub is just 2 blocks from Raleigh Convention Center with Japanese-inspired Katsu Sando and cosplayer-friendly vibes.

Welcome to Raleigh, anime fans! Animazement 2026 is coming to the Raleigh Convention Center May 22-24, and Element Gastropub at 421 Fayetteville St is ready to be your dining destination. Just a 2-block walk from the convention, we're serving up 100% plant-based comfort food in a cosplayer-friendly atmosphere that welcomes everyone exactly as they are. Two Blocks from the Convention Center When you're in full cosplay and don't want to walk far, location matters. Element Gastropub is a quick 5-minute walk from the Raleigh Convention Center—close enough to pop back for panels, far enough to escape the convention floor crowds. We're on Fayetteville Street in City Plaza, easy to find and easy to get to. Japanese-Inspired Options Looking for something that fits the anime theme? Our Katsu Sando is a Japanese-inspired plant-based cutlet sandwich that's become a fan favorite. Crispy, savory, and satisfying—it's the kind of comfort food that transcends cuisine categories. Ask your server about other Asian-inspired specials that might be on the menu during con weekend. Cosplayer-Friendly Atmosphere We get it: you spent hours on that costume, and you want to wear it proud. At Element, we welcome every cosplayer, every costume, every character. Our staff won't bat an eye whether you're in civilian clothes or full armor. We've served Goku, Sailor Moon, and everything in between—your costume is welcome at our table. Group Dining for Con Friends Meeting up with your online friends IRL? We're perfect for group dining: Shareable Apps – Voodoo Chili Cheese Fries, Wings, Nachos for the whole party Individual Entrees – Smash Burgers, Nashville Hot Chik'n, Katsu Sando, Chef's Table dishes Group-Friendly Space – Room to spread out, show off costumes, and take group photos Flexible Seating – We can push tables together for larger groups Call ahead at (919) 703-6538 for groups of 6 or more. Late-Night Dining for Con-Goers Con days run long. Panels, events, and after-parties keep you busy, and you need food that's available when you need it. Our kitchen stays open: Friday & Saturday – Open until 10pm for late-night bites Sunday – Open until 9pm for post-con dinner Full menu available throughout service—no last-call surprises. Fuel for the Full Experience Between the dealer's room, artist alley, panels, and photoshoots, you need proper fuel. Our 100% plant-based menu keeps you energized without the heavy feeling: Comfort Food – Satisfying without weighing you down Quick Service – We know you've got places to be Takeout Available – Grab food to go if time is tight Full Bar for After-Hours When the con floor closes but the night is young, our bar is open: 20 NC Craft Beers – Local breweries on tap Craft Cocktails – Made by bartenders who care Zero-Proof Options – For the designated drivers and sober celebrators Animazement 2026 Details The convention runs May 22-24, 2026 at the Raleigh Convention Center. Element Gastropub at 421 Fayetteville St is open and ready to welcome anime fans with delicious plant-based food and a judgment-free atmosphere. See You at the Con Open Mon-Thu 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm, Sun 11am-9pm. Walk-ins welcome, reservations recommended for groups. Call (919) 703-6538. We can't wait to see your cosplay!