Ask Amy
Here are my straightforward answers to questions I have received for buying and selling homes in the NC Triangle area.
Dear Amy,
We are foodies who love to explore local food and beverage locations. What are the must-try spots in the Triangle?
As a self-proclaimed foodie I'll share some of my favorites here, but there are endless options, with more opening monthly. I will say there are some top-notch food trucks in the Triangle. Many of our area's famous chefs got their start with a food truck before opening a brick and mortar location. You can have bragging rights that you ate their food from their original food truck.
Raleigh
Angus Barn: This family owned and run restaurant is an institution and well-known nationally. They had a fire years ago and rebuilt and have expanded several times since. They are best known for their steaks but all of their food is delicious. Pro tip - if you want to go and can't get a reservation, go inside the main entrance and find the Turkey Lounge upstairs. It's charming and you can order the full menu there! They also have a wine cellar with rare and expensive bottles.
Brewery Bhavana: A unique concept that combines a brewery, dim sum restaurant, flower shop, and bookstore. The craft beers are excellent, and the food is as creative as the space. Once you've eaten here, you will definitely want to go back.
Carajillo’s: They have an extensive menu, but my favorite is their famous ceviches. They have 2 Raleigh locations - 1 in North Raleigh and the other is just south of downtown Raleigh near Garner.
Crawford and Son: Local legendary chef Scott Crawford’s flagship restaurant offers refined, seasonal American cuisine in a cozy setting. It’s perfect for a special night out.
http://crawfordandsonrestaurant.com/
Death & Taxes: Owned by acclaimed chef Ashley Christensen, this restaurant focuses on wood-fired cooking, with an emphasis on locally sourced meats and vegetables. The ambiance is upscale yet relaxed.
https://ac-restaurants.com/death-taxes/
Poole’s Diner: Owned by acclaimed chef Ashley Christensen, Poole’s Diner is known for its modern takes on classic Southern comfort food. Their mac and cheese is legendary.
https://ac-restaurants.com/pooles/
Whiskey Kitchen: A popular spot for whiskey lovers, offering a wide selection of whiskeys and creative cocktails, paired with Southern-inspired small plates.
Durham
The Durham: Located in The Durham Hotel, this rooftop bar and restaurant offers craft cocktails, small plates, and stunning views of downtown Durham. It’s a great place for a sunset drink.
https://www.thedurham.com/restaurant/
Mateo Bar de Tapas: This lively spot offers a unique blend of Spanish tapas with Southern ingredients. The atmosphere is vibrant, and the wine list, featuring Spanish wines, is excellent.
M Sushi: Ranked among the Triangle’s best sushi spots, M Sushi offers fresh sushi and sashimi in a modern, minimalist setting. The omakase experience is highly recommended. They have a sister location in Cary.
https://www.m-restaurants.com/location/m-restaurants-sushi/
Namu: This is the definition of a hidden gem. It's tucked between a service road and a shopping center near I-40 in Durham, but when you sit down, you feel like you're in another country. Namu has small plates, a beer hall and a coffee bar, which seems crazy but they pull it off. Namu doesn't take reservations or even have a hostess. You order using a QR code at the table and place your order and pay by phone. You can go for dinner or just to hang out with friends. During the week, people schedule meetings or study in a relaxed atmosphere.
Pizzeria Toro: A wood-fired pizzeria known for its creative and delicious pies. The cozy atmosphere and thoughtful ingredient combinations make it a local favorite.
Chapel Hill
Al’s Burger Shack: A casual spot known for its burgers made with locally sourced beef, fresh toppings, and house-made condiments. The fries and milkshakes are also top-notch.
The Crunkleton: A cocktail bar with a speakeasy vibe, offering expertly crafted drinks and a curated selection of spirits. The bartenders are true mixologists, making it a top spot for cocktail enthusiasts.
https://thecrunkleton.com/locations/chapel-hill/
Lantern: Chef Andrea Reusing’s restaurant blends Asian flavors with local North Carolina ingredients. The result is a sophisticated menu that’s both innovative and comforting.
https://www.lanternrestaurant.com/
TOPO Organic Distillery: North Carolina’s first organic distillery, offering tours and tastings of their small-batch spirits, including vodka, gin, and whiskey. It’s a great spot for learning about the distillation process while enjoying a few samples. Top of the Hill is packed when the UNC Tarheels play as it is located in the heart of Chapel Hill.
Cary
A’Verde: a'Verde is a Mexican restaurant inspired by "Top Chef" alum Katsuji Tanabe's desire to bring fresh, vibrant, delicious, and fun flavors to the table. Drinks and dishes are familiar and comforting while using NC’s best seasonal ingredients.
Bond Brothers Beer Company: A popular brewery in downtown Cary, known for its variety of craft beers, including IPAs, stouts, and sours. The outdoor seating area is perfect for relaxing with friends.
https://www.bondbrothersbeer.com/
Bosphorus Restaurant: A Cary favorite for Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, offering dishes like kebabs, mezes, and baklava. The food is authentic, flavorful, and they serve generous portions so go hungry!
Herons: Located in The Umstead Hotel, Herons is one of the few Forbes Five-Star restaurants in the South. The dining experience is exceptional, with an emphasis on artistic presentation and seasonal ingredients.
https://www.theumstead.com/dining/herons
KoKyu BBQ: Known for its creative take on barbecue, KoKyu serves up dishes like brisket tacos and Korean-style short ribs. It’s a great spot for something a bit different.
What questions about new construction can Amy answer for you?