McLean’s Ole Time Cafe Honored in The Wake Weekly Readers’ Choice Awards

McLean’s Ole Time Café Honored with Multiple Wins in The Wake Weekly’s “Best of” Awards

Zebulon, NC — As McLean’s Ole Time Café proudly celebrates its 70th year as “Zebulon’s Home Kitchen,” the beloved local restaurant is honored to announce several distinctions awarded in The Wake Weekly’s 2026 Best of the Best reader-voted awards. These recognitions reflect the deep support of the East Wake community and the generations of families, businesses, and neighbors who continue to make McLean’s part of their daily lives.

McLean’s earned top placements across seven categories:

• 1st Place — Best Overall Restaurant (East Wake)

• 2nd Place — Best Sweet Tea

• 2nd Place — Best American Homestyle

• 3rd Place — Best Breakfast

• 3rd Place — Best Lunch

• 3rd Place — Best Ribs

• 3rd Place — Best Salad

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who took the time to nominate and vote for us,” the McLean’s team shared. “To be named the Best Overall Restaurant in East Wake — especially in our 70th year — is an incredible honor. Our customers are the heart of our café, and we’re proud to shine a light on Zebulon and the East Wake community we love.”

McLean’s Ole Time Café has served homestyle meals since 1956, remaining a gathering place for families, local businesses, and visitors who come for comfort food, friendly service, and a sense of home. These awards highlight the café’s continued commitment to quality and community as it enters its next decade of service.