The Federal and The Square Rabbit

Reporting on two more local places I visited recently: in Durham—The Federal, and in Raleigh—The Square Rabbit.

Just a brief run-down here. The Federal [914 West Main Street, Durham] is a bar that serves way better food that you would expect from a bar of this type. The place is dark, kinda unorganized and service is a little off. But they have some good things going for it in addition to the the food: a large back room for groups, a patio out front, great location in the Brightleaf Square area, and a good looking beer menu that includes 32-oz Red Stripe bottles. I’ve been a couple of times now and was impressed on both occasions by the grub. The first time I got a football-sized pesto chicken sandwich served on focaccia. I remember taking half home. And I never do that. I usually eat everything on my plate!

On my most recent visit I got the daily sandwich special: Bacon and Brie on a pretzel roll with mustard, kosher pickles and red onions. A bit like a Chicago dog. This sandwich was incredible, and all about the bread—crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside. And while the medley of toppings may seem odd, I was pleased to see how everything worked together. The salad was lightly dressed in a vinaigrette—a great side. Fries are good, too.

bacon and brie sandwich

I also visited The Square Rabbit [19 E Main Street] in downtown Raleigh recently. This place is next door to Mecca, and just around the corner from Busy Bee and Slim’s.

the square rabbit ©Dave Horne, flickr

sweets to-go counter

The Square Rabbit, when I dropped in after lunch time, was still bustling with people picking up a bite for lunch. They have a number of prepackaged items ready for take-out in their deli counter—things like pasta salad, quiche, salads, sandwiches and soups. But they also have a sweets counter—with cookies, cupcakes, brownies and little cakes. I ordered a lemon bar (one of my favorite dainty desserts).

pretty lemon bar

The Square Rabbit also has a healthy catering business for luncheons, parties and desserts. Extensive menus are online.

So that’s what that little shop is. And if you’re in the neighborhood and have an appetite, drop in. I would expect their food, if anything like the yummy lemon bar, will be delicious, too.

Mecca

Don’t be confused—I didn’t travel to Saudi Arabia. Mecca is a small down-home lunch counter and restaurant in downtown Raleigh. I went there for lunch yesterday and was thrilled by what I found. It’s a gem.

mecca

My dad recommended this place when I first moved to Raleigh. He would frequently join the courthouse bailiffs for lunch in the county seats across N.C.. I suspect that’s how he got the inside scoop on Mecca and the privileged information of a great number of other local joints between Manteo and Murphy. Location makes this place a prime lunch spot for the downtown crowd. I noticed several people picking up lunch to-go and take back to the office. Suits strolled in for a casual business lunch. Others parked it at the counter. It’s accommodating and relaxed for all walks of life.

So what’s on the menu? Something for everyone, made the down-home Southern way. I didn’t read much further than “Pan-fried, ocean fresh filet of trout w/ coleslaw.” But they have a two-page menu of favorite comfort foods.

mecca's specials

Entrées come with a choice of two vegetables (also listed above), yeast rolls and hush puppies and coffee or iced tea. I selected cheddar cheese mashed potatoes and buttered June peas. The food was delicious and simple, portioned perfectly to fit snugly in the little plate compartments. The coleslaw was the sweet variety. Mashed potatoes were smooth and cheesy. Peas cooked to mushy. The frying batter was nice and not too heavy on the trout. The sweet tea is remarkable.

pan-fried trout + mashed potatoes + peas

Here are some of the other lunch entrées ordered at my table.

iiikirbyiii took a break from trolling the mlg forums to enjoy this broiled chopped sirloin steak with onion gravy, macaroni salad and pickled cucumbers

dward struggled with the the southern style fried chicken with rice and gravy

coco ordered the famous bbq—that's right...pork at a place called mecca

As you can see, these are portions for grown-ups. Hungry grown-ups.

The Mecca is clearly one of Raleigh’s great institutions. It’s been around for nearly 80 years! And I imagine much of their winning formula has remained unchanged over the years, despite the many changes around it. The Progress Energy building now looms overhead, Busy Bee and Slim’s are located around the corner, Bail Bonds and parking garages moved in down the street, and Fayetteville street activity is just a block away. But inside Mecca you’ll still get simple Southern food, mindful service and a friendly crowd.

mecca then © 2008 raleigh city museum

mecca now

mecca now

I love the decor at Mecca: the tile floor, a wall of wooden booths, an old cash register and a bright red counter with matching chairs. Photographs behind the counter tout the patronage of Mayor Meeker and former governors Martin and Hunt, as well as other local celebrities. And behind the counter, next to the range hood hangs a framed portrait of FDR. While I was paying my bill (cash only!) I overheard someone say that the N.C. Supreme Court Justices were supposed to be coming to Mecca soon to eat and have a portrait taken. And that’s just neat!

I’m looking forward to adding Mecca to the rotation. And I hear the spaghetti’s good. Next time…

Ode to the Summer Tomato

sweet william's homegrown cherry tomatoes

To my delight and surprise the other week, I noticed some green and orange-ish tomatoes emerging on a plant that grows on the fence between my and my neighbor’s yard. To be honest, I didn’t even know there was a tomato plant there. My neighbor is a sweet lady in her 80s. She likes to yell at me when I’m mowing the yard, which makes for interesting conversation because I can’t hear her and she definitely can’t hear me. I usually pause to chat. She talks to me about her husband who passed away a couple of years ago, the yard and garden (called Sweet William’s Garden) he used to maintain, and the road trips she has taken with her friends. Oh and she drives a red Mustang. Convertible.

I gave Sweet William’s cherry tomatoes another week or so to ripen, and went out to pick a bowl-full when the vine was abundant and the tomatoes were looking handsome and red.

Peak tomato season is upon us.

Tomatoes are my most anticipated harvest of the year. This dates back to my younger years when my grandfather Pops used to maintain a healthy vegetable garden of mostly peppers and tomatoes. These tomatoes were legendary: brought to the house on each visit, peddled among the neighbors. Mostly we ate them in plain, thick, juicy slices with salt and pepper. And while most gardeners would argue that hot nights and lots of water produce your best tomatoes, Pops relied on singing to his vines and some tender care.

To my palate, there’s nothing more succulent, brightly acidic and sweet, so pleasurable to taste, than a hot summer’s still-warm-off-the vine tomato. And we wait all year for it! How sad to eat the pale, flavorless mush of a forced out-of-season tomato. But sprinkle your ripest with a touch of salt (the big flakes, like David’s Kosher Salt—available at any grocery store) and the plump, red morsel is like manna. The tomato is the hero of a bacon-lettuce sandwich on toasted bread with a spread of mayo. The tomato sings when accompanied by olive oil, salt, pepper and basil! Add fresh mozzarella and balsamic vinegar and you have created the most simple and elegant plate of food and goodness.

For my birthday my family went to 18 Seaboard for dinner. (Side note: I got the marinated Flat Iron steak with the Worcestershire sauce, sweet corn mashed Yukon Gold potatoes and sautéed spinach. It was a fantastic conclusion to my brief dive into veganism.) I was enjoying my meal too much to pause for photographs, though I did manage to snap a picture of the heirloom tomato sampler…halfway through devouring it.

I wish I could remember all of the clever names of the heirlooms—things like Mortgage Lifter, Brandywine and Banana Legs. They came in all colors and patterns —purple and green marble, red-orange and yellow—and sizes and shapes—bite sized and round, pear-shaped, and giant, bumpy, amorphous shapes. The plate was topped with basil chiffonade, olive oil, a very sweet balsamic vinegar and goat cheese.

heirloom tomato sampler at 18 seaboard

That brings me to great heirloom debate. Something so lovely couldn’t possibly skirt by without controversy. First, a few traits of heirloom variety tomatoes:
•  seeds are passed down for generations, ergo “heirloom”
•  smaller scale production
•  open-pollinated (meaning non-hybrids, and pollination takes place as a natural mechanism by bird, insect or wind)
•  genetically diverse for desirable qualities; preserves biodiversity
• most varieties have histories preceding industrialized farming (much of which now concentrates on the sturdiness of the tomato for shipping, and a higher yield for mass production)

beautiful heirlooms / photo by flickr (cc) user clayirving

Heirloom tomatoes have become a touch trendy in the food world, a kind of commodity de cuisine. And with that high demand, prices have gone up, and in some cases quality has gone down while production was amped up. Jane Black of the Washington Post wrote in her article Snob Appeal: Won’t Someone Knock Heirloom Tomatoes Off Their Pedestal, “The best tomato I ate last summer was not an heirloom tomato. If those don’t seem like fighting words, then clearly you do not take tomatoes seriously.” And furthermore she said, “‘Heirloom’ is not synonymous with ‘good.’”

(Illustration by Serge Bloch For The Washington Post; Photos by Julia Ewan/The Washington Post)

I will agree with Black, mostly because a tomato—heirloom or commercial hybrid—can be judged on a bite-by-bite basis. Many commercial hybrid tomatoes, if thrown at a stage of horrible comedians, wouldn’t even burst. They’ve been genetically engineered indestructible so that during shipments, crates of product aren’t worthless upon arrival at their destination. That can’t be tastey. But some engineering in hybrid creation has proved beneficial, creating great taste, a resistance to rot and high-yield vines of great taste.

But since we’re in tomato season, I say eat the tomato as straight-off-the-vine as possible. Either from your own backyard or a farmer’s market. Enjoy the season and take advantage of what’s fresh. Heirloom or not, just do what tastes right.

The Cupcake Shoppe

the cupcake shoppe

I visited Raleigh’s premier cupcake bakery, The Cupcake Shoppe, today following a birthday lunch with friends. While that extra “pe” really bugs me, their baking should be taken seriously. It’s seriously good.

Cupcakes have become so trendy in the past few years with cutesy bakeries cropping up everywhere. The trend has made its way into the wedding industry with cupcake wedding cakes becoming a standard option alongside traditional cakes or the trendy Krispy Kreme doughnut cake. I attribute the cupcake hype at least partially to Carrie and Miranda famously dining on New York City Magnolia cupcakes (in the episode “No Ifs, Ands, or Butts” from season 3). In between bites, Carrie reveals to Miranda that she has met Aidan. (Voice over: “He was warm, masculine, and classic American. Just like his furniture.”)

Besides this, the cupcake is just adorable: a smallish, single serving to be savored all on your own. The cupcake is appealing because it’s messy, but manageable. It’s an adventure mapping your way around the paper wrapper to get a bit of icing in every bite and not on your nose. And the little cakes come in so many flavor varieties, decorated either simplistically or elaborately.

the lemon zinger

On this visit I ordered the Lemon Zinger. That’s lemon cake with with lemon buttercream icing, and surprise!—lemon curd in the center. The heaping icing is beautifully simple and subtle in citrus flavor, though there is a kind of brightness, a lemony “zing.” I think Ina Garten adds a bit of lemon juice to her plain buttercream icing because it truly brightens the flavor, without adding that identifiabley lemon tartness. Likewise the cake was subtly lemon-flavored, until reaching the bright yellow curd on the inside. And then it was a matter of trying to plan each bite to include a taste of lemon curd.

The menu at The Cupcake Shoppe includes a variety of regular flavors, and a rotating flavor of the week. Here’s the bakery case. Top left is the “What’s Up Doc?” carrot cake with cream cheese icing. Below that is the “Mint Condition” chocolate cake with mint buttercream. Check out the menu here for a complete list of their regular flavors. I’m a big fan of the “Big Red.”

pretty cupcakes

And here’s the flavor of the week: Banana Caramel.

flavor of the week

I also did a little spying into the kitchen where a cupcake decorator was busy preparing a small custom order for a Harry Potter-themed party. What a fun job! She’s got a box of six cupcakes with brooms on the first two, then a pair with stars, and a pair with Harry Potter spectacles. I love the whimsy!

to-be Harry Potter cupcakes

If you’re in the Glenwood South area, I recommend making a quick stop. There are tables and chairs inside if you want to eat-in. Plus I’m pretty sure they serve milk, coffee and so forth. The bakery also completes smaller custom orders and orders of a larger size for events and weddings. Prices are reasonable for the quality at $2.75 each, or $30 for a mixed dozen.

Major Update! Food Galore

There are a good number of Triangle restaurants that I have visited recently, though failed to review in a timely manner. Repeat: FAIL. So it’s time to lay it out on the table and catch up! I will be covering Piedmont (Durham), Blu (Durham), Azitra (Raleigh), 42nd Street Oyster Bar (Raleigh), Busy Bee Cafe (Raleigh) and a Bravo’s Top Chef demo at the NC Farmer’s Market (Raleigh).  Fasten your seat belts.

piedmont

Piedmont [401 Foster St, Durham]— I headed here for Triangle Restaurant Week back in mid-May. Located in a fairly nondescript building, the restaurant could easily be passed without notice, but it is truly worth noticing! For starters the menu changes (often) nightly, so you can be sure you’re getting what is fresh and seasonally available. Restaurant week favorably prices lunches and dinners at $15 and $25 respectively. So at a place like Piedmont, we left with a deal.

First Course: White Sweet Potato Soup with Chive Blossoms. Smooth a creamy, with a drizzle of olive oil, the mild potato base of the soup is a solid start. But the chive blossoms add a subtle hint of sweet and oniony tang, though more delicate and less vegetal than the green chive stalk. I loved this as a not-too-filling start to a meal. Like warming up for the big race.

white sweet potato soup with chive blossoms

Another First Course option: Bruschetta with House-smoked Mahi Mahi, Dandlion Greens Salad & Pickled Red Onions. The highlights of this dish are the intense smokey flavor on the tender fish, and in my opinion, the pickled red onion. For the same reason I love pickled ginger—it’s sweet, but kind of sharp, too. Maybe I like all pickled things (save pickled pigs feet).

smoked mahi bruschetta

Main Course: Breast of Poulet Rouge with Potato, Spring Peas & Bacon Hash, & Italian Broccoli. Goodness this was incredibly delicious and flavor-packed. The boneless chicken married niceley with a bite of hash drenched in the salty, smokey, wine-based(?) sauce. I’m not sure if the bitter greens were in fact Italian broccoli (broccoli rabe) or something like turnip greens. But either way, the bitterness and droopy wilt complemented the smokey bacon flavor, tender chicken and crisp peas.

I usually don’t love plates like this, where everything is stacked atop one another. It’s just too “this is a fancy restaurant.” But I suppose it works because each bite of chicken/hash/greens/sauce is harmonious, but the kitchen doesn’t have to deliver a casserole dish to the table. Speaking of which, who’s going to open up the family-style casserole restaurant? Menu options would be things like green bean casserole (with fried onions on top), spicy spaghetti casserole, wild rice casserole and potato chip chicken casserole!

poulet rouge

Another Main Course option: Asparagus & Ricotta Ravioli with Lemon-Mint Butter Sauce & Parmesan.

ravioli

The third entrée option, unfortunately, was no longer available the evening we went. It was housemade Italian sausage with creamy polenta, Italian broccoli and tomato broth. But we did try each of the three desserts.

Dessert: Dark Chocolate Mousse with Hazelnut Biscotti. Fluffy and light, but seriously chocolatey. A few bites were plenty, and the biscotti, which I normally find brick-like and unappetizing, were quite good when lacking the anise flavor.

dark chocolate mousse

Another Dessert option: Espresso Panna Cotta with Sugar Cookies. Great flavor in a panna cotta gelatinous texture.

espresso panna cotta

And Another Dessert option: Pistachio Cake with Candied Orange Semifreddo & Orange Caramel. Amazing—still-warm cake, crunchy! I would definitely try to make something like this. It’s much like a carrot cake.

pistachio cake

Blu [2002 Hillsborough Rd, Durham]— This was my brother’s birthday dinner choice, and I was happy to be a part of it! The seasonal menu favors seafood, including some local catches, like the North Carolina trout I ordered. The fish is tender, not flaky, from sauteing in this awesome acidic and slightly buttery sauce, and encrusted with pistachios, then topped with red grapes, slightly warmed and acidic. Each bite was a perfect blend of flavors. The sides—French green beans and mashed potatoes—I’m sure were quite good, but were mostly overshadowed by the trout.

nc trout

Azitra [8411 Brier Creek Pkwy, Raleigh]— I tried to go here during restaurant week, after hearing positive reviews—from vegetarian and non-vegetarian sources alike. But Azitra is not open for Saturday lunch, when I happened to go. So just a small warning there. I went back a few weeks later for a weeknight dinner. The food completely fulfilled my desire, nay, need, for Indian food. First, it has a cool, modern interior.

azitra entrance

My table ordered the assorted naan for soakin’ up sauce! Score. Some breads had peppers baked into them, others were garlic or parsley topped. I selected the Tandoori Chicken Tikka for dinner, which came with makhni sauce, masala potatoes and basmati rice. Flavors and serving size were over the top. The tandoori-baked chicken made for superb leftovers. I completely put away the potatoes…that masala sauce is so incredible it may induce dreamy hallucinations.

tandoori chicken tikka

42nd Street Oyster Bar [508 W Jones St, Raleigh]—I went here ages ago, following Raleigh’s World BeerFest. After drinking beer all afternoon, our group was in dire need of a snackeroo, a glass of water and for moi—a glass of wine! We went splits on some appetizers and oysters. I hope to go back soon and get more of a taste of the menu selection, though this was a solid introduction. We also found that the restaurant will kindly hold your debit card if you leave it there. I would highly recommend the classic 42nd Street Baked Oysters. You will want to gulp down the oysters, and clean out the shell for every remaining breadcrumb, bit of bacon and butter.

baked oysters rockefeller—with spinach, bacon and parmesan

baked 42nd street oysters—with breadcrumb crust, bacon and spicy butter

cajun fried shrimpers

spinach artichoke dip with pita bread

Busy Bee Cafe [225 S Wilmington St, Raleigh]—This was my first meal trip to Busy Bee, and I was happily surprised by the yummy food. Since opening, Busy Bee amended the menu slightly with some seasonal additions, but everything our group ordered is still available. I should also mention that the restaurant has an enjoyable atmosphere. The multi-level space has a ground floor dining room and loft, plus an upstairs bar, and rear patio for the after-dinner crowd. You can always have a drink upstairs before dinner while you wait for your table to be put together…

For dinner I ordered the Chicken Salad Sandwich, which came on an airy croissant. The chicken salad was wonderful, but I love all kinds of chicken salad—my mom’s being my favorite, closely followed by O’Carr’s in Birmingham, AL. My mom has said before that it’s her mission to try every chicken salad possible, and I couldn’t agree more. They are all slightly different, but all good! I’ve never had a bad chicken salad…I think that would be memorable if I had. Busy Bee’s mayonaisee-based chicken salad includes some celery, apple and egg tossed in.

a perfect chicken salad croissant sangwich w/ fried green tomatoes on the side

Here are some of the other entrées ordered at our table.

tom & jack burger: fried green tomatoes and jack cheese; side of tater tots

shrimp and grits—small portion, but delicious

side of mac & cheese

grilled chicken sandwich with pear, basil and honey; also, somone likes pepper ketchup!

State Farmer’s Market [1201 Agriculture St, Raleigh]—Finally, we’ll head over to the Top Chef Demo with Carla (HOOTY HOO!?) and CJ. Former season 3 contestant CJ was preparing the menu with season 5’s Carla assisting. The dish was inspired by N.C. hog farming and our love of the pig: Spiced Pork Loin Tacos with Apple Fennel Bacon Slaw and Bacon-Fat Dressing. Since I watched the demo, I’ll give a rundown on how to make it yourself. It’s quite easy. Sorry though. No specific measurements or cooking times.

carla and cj at cooking demo

To prepare the pork loin, begin by very liberally seasoning the outside with salt and pepper. Then add a rub of cayenne, cumin and cinnamon (sort of Moroccan flavors). With some oil drizzled in a cast iron skillet, sear the sides of the pork loin to seal in the juices. Finish cooking in the oven. Once it has rested from cooking, slice thinly.

To prepare the vinaigrette, combine lemon juice, shallot, a dash of IPA (CJ used Carolina Brewing Company’s IPA), sugar, rendered bacon fat, olive oil, salt and pepper. For the salad, combine julienne apples, fennel, bacon, dates and toasted walnuts, then toss with the vinaigrette. Allow to marinate in the dressing.

CJ formed the slices of pork loin into hard shell taco shapes, and piled a scoop of the salad on top of each. Lastly, he toppped it with a bit of fresh fennel tops. These tacos were the perfect size for eating with your hands. And the flavors were absolutely spot-on with notes of sweet, smoky, citric and spicy. So amazing.

spiced pork loin tacos

Well that’s all folks. It feels good to get this food of my chest.

Chubby’s Tacos…Not Texas, but close

Two friends invited me to join them on a taco adventure, and I must thank them for helping me branch out from my regular Mexican grub haunts (Armadillo, Montey’s, El Rod, La Fiesta, Chipotle). Chubby’s Tacos opened a Raleigh location recently, a second establishment of the original in Durham. And judging by the crowd (in this nondescript strip mall) word has quickly traveled about the bangin’ salsa bar, variety, fresh ingredients and relaxed atmosphere. Check the menu here. Chubby’s has acquired beverage permits now, too, so you can partake in a beer or a margarita.

What’s so great about Chubby’s? The menu is simply priced, with items served à la carte. This is especially satisfying for me because I like variety, picking and choosing a few things to try. Fresh ingredients: salsa bar, veggies, herbs. Flavors: a variety of flavor combos, beyond the traditional.

this is a proper taco meal

My order: two tacos (Carne Asada—diced seasoned steak with onions & cilantro; Grilled Tilapia—citrus marinated with chipotle cream sauce and pico de gallo). Plus, I made it a meal for an additional $2 to include rice, beans and chips. LG, what do you think? This looks like Houston food… so while you might be a little jealous, I know you’ve got at least five places down the street that offer this grub.

The carne adasa taco is my standard order, so no surprises there. The combination of spicy steak with cilantro and onions is simple, but the bright cilantro and crispy onion go great with the meat. And here’s what really makes it: soft corn tortillas…far superior to the flour.

The grilled tilapia taco was nicely balanced with a delicate chipotle sauce, not too smokey, and lightly fried fish. The pico burned so good.

The beans and rice represented the standard for most restaurants, but I add a heaping spoonful of salsa to pep it up a bit and make it spicy. Rice and beans makes it feel more like a meal, but I’ll get another outrageously good taco instead next time.

On to the salsa…

don't make me commit, i'll try them all

From top to bottom, left to right…I will do my best to remember…1. Salsa Verde 2. Habanero (Spicy!) 3. Can’t remember, but It looks like I liked it 4. Salsa Fresca 5. Guacatillo (Avocad0-Tomatillo) 6. Roasted Pepper? This bloggie got seriously distracted by consuming the salsas, and forgot their names.

Here’s a look at the day’s special: The Chubbychanga (fried tortilla, stuffed with chicken, onions, peppers), plus a side of queso dip, chips and a classic margarita on ice.

Chubby's Changa

Mas tacos

Check it: more tacos, because Chubby’s is all about variety. That’s a Chicken Fajita (seasoned chicken with lettuce and cheese) and Al Pastor (marinated pork & pineapple with cilantro and onions). In corn tortillas!

Finish it all off with something sweet.

fried plantains with sweet cream sauce

If you’re in search for an upgrade or just something different from your more frequented Mexican restaurants, why not try Chubby’s. It’s local, plus prices are reasonable. The ingredients are fresh. You’ll find tofu, tilapia and ahi tuna alongside traditional steak, chicken, shrimp and pork. And you can have it anyway you want it: taco, taquito, gordita, torta, burrito (the size of your head!), quesadillas, taco salads and nachos.

I have a feeling I’ll be going back this weekend. Any takers?

BOOM—chubby's tacos

Can I have some remedy?

Headed to a newish place downtown, The Remedy Diner, this past week for a St. Patty’s Day (I want dah gold!) dinner with friends. I was bugging for a yummy sandwich. “Cures What Ales You” is the place’s tagline/brand promise, and they delivered on it.

welcome to the remedy diner

The remedy motif is carried out through the entire menu with these listings: Quick Fixes (appetizers like hummus, pico & chips), Experimental Treatments (Daily Specials), Morning Doses (Breakfast Fare), Alternative Therapies (Vegetarian & Vegan Sandwiches), Mainstream Therapies (Sandwiches with Carne), Prescription Only (Booze). I ordered from the Alt Therapies, The Veggie Hero. The kitchen was out of hoagie rolls, so I substituted ciabatta (good move): Cucumbers, banana peppers, red onion, tomato, lettuce, sprouts, Swiss, mayo.

an heroic veggie sandwich

I am in the midst of a revived obsession with sandwiches, particularly with piling on the veggies. I’ve had plenty of veggie sandwiches before, mostly mediocre. But Remedy used the freshest ingredients, and the most delicious, soft ciabatta. It’s a good reminder that simple is better, and better ingredients require less “treatment.”

Other orders at the table included…

the spicy turkey sandwich (with jalapeños & chipotle mayo)

the greek salad

an impressive vegetarian chicken salad pita (a non-vegetarian eater said, "this tastes just like chicken!")

the remedy breakfast (with eggs, bacon, toast, grits, hashbrowns)

all-beef hot dog (a veggie dog is also on the menu)

With such a varried menu catering to meat-eaters and vegetarians alike, plus a strong selection of beers, The Remedy Diner will be appealing to many people passing through, going out or working downtown. It’s a great addition.

Some other side notes on the experience…the interior is cute, though a little tight for a place that has a strong following already. Goodnight Raleigh!’s contributing history editor did some good digging on the building’s origin as a physician’s practice.

There are a couple of tables outside on the street that will be ideal for people watching on sunny afternoons. I see Remedy Diner possibly reaching Rockford status for the Moore’s Square area, as a lunchtime favorite with an eclectic crowd. That is a big compliment from a Rockford lover.

dig their signage

And now a little something I’ve got in the works: a cooking contest! I’ve been testing recipes and taste testing. A thorough entry will follow in the next couple of weeks, but just this preview and hint for now:

testing our puff pastry & some different flavor profiles

Playing Catch-up: Mint, Lilly’s, Jibarra & Vita

Time for a round-up on dining out in the Triangle. We’re running the gamut here with foods from around the world!

1. Mint, Chapel Hill, NC (my favorite in this group)

This is an Indian restaurant, located next door to Local 506 on the Carrboro end of Franklin, and within the same block as India Palace (also good, but it’s been a few years since I last went there). The inside is simply elegant–nice bar, dim lighting, not kitschy. We started out the meal with a bottle of wine and complimentary papadum served with two chutneys.

pregame snack

I’m an adventurous eater (though not Andrew Zimmerman style), and I’m always open to trying new foods. So I asked the waiter to pick out his favorite from the menu–I’m not vegetarian, and I enjoy some heat. So I got the Mint Chicken!

the mint chicken

The food was amazing. The chicken was tender and moist on the inside, and lightly charred on the outside for some crunch and smoky oven flavor. And notice the portions are healthy. I had enough leftover for lunch the next day. The dishes at our table came with large bowls of basmati rice, plus we ordered assorted naan. I was reminded recently that there are in fact four types of dining utensils: fork, knife, spoon and BREAD, perfect for sopping up the sweet and spicy red coconut curry sauce. Others at the table ordered the Chicken Vindaloo (a favorite, and spicey) and Saag Paneer. Hold me back, I’m seconds away from driving to Chapel Hill for the lunch buffet.

2. Lilly’s Pizza, Raleigh, NC

Lilly’s is a freakin’ cute pizza joint in my neighborhood that thrives on fun crowds, art and music, outdoor seating and the best in local and natural ingredients. It fills the Pepper’s Pizza void in my heart that I’ve had since moving out of Chapel Hill. I went to Lilly’s recently with a friend before seeing The Wrestler at The Rialto. We split The Aristocrat (topped with extra virgin olive oil, organic garlic, organic mushrooms, sharp white cheddar, mozzarella, roasted tomato slices, roasted yellow onions, organic roasted potatoes & Parmesan). I was a slice into enjoying the pie before I said–hey, where’s the famous Lilly’s tomato sauce? This sauceless pie, unencumbered by heavy tomato sauce, stands out with it’s herby, garlic tang! I was surprised how good the roasted potato was. Arrive here early to snag a table, especially if it’s warm and sunny. Also worthwhile at Lilly’s: the $6 lunch special (2 slices+drink or 1 slice+salad+drink).

the aristocrat

3. Jibarra, Raleigh, NC

We’re heading to Mexico. Fancy Mexico. Jibarra is a contemporary Mexican restaurant in the downtown Depot. This area and restaurant has a lot of promise if it can overcome its slightly off-the-beaten-path location.

my marg sprouted an orchid

First up: a classic Jibarra margarita. Tequila is supposed to be Jibarra’s thing, with over 30 varieties available. You can order a tequila flight with a sampling of three. Pass. I would have liked to see versions of your traditional margarita, similar to Sol Y Luna in Birmingham. I remember getting the savory Sol Y Luna Margarita there with Sauza Conmemorativo tequila, Grand Marnier and homemade spicy sangrita. Mmm not your average Monty’s pitcher.

tacos de carne asada

For dinner I ordered the Tacos de Carne Asada (thin sliced ribeye served with potato, onion and poblano pepper medley, diced onion, cilantro, salsa molcajeteada and flour tortillas), a personal fave. This is my standard order at Mexican restaurants. My overall assessment, honest and true…I like Monty’s more. Ahhhhh. I know. Maybe it’s nostalgia, maybe price point, but Monterrey’s is just as good, if not better.

Jibarra does win in atmosphere, quality of drink, salsas, sides, presentation, etc.

4. Vita, Durham, NC

This cute place is operated by the restaurant group responsible for Parizade, George’s Garage, BIN54 and Spice Street. So I expected good Mediterranean flare and a nice dining experience right off the bat. A lot of food was ordered by our table. I think pictures will speak more than words.

antipasto: proscuitto

antipasto: fungi

spinach salad w/ pancetta, red onion, walnuts, goat cheese, balsamic vinaigrette

a special: salmon & risotto

spaghetti w/meatballs

a special: ravioli w/asparagus

spicy chicken pizza

Our entire table was very satisfied with the food, ambiance, service and 1/2 price wine night. I would definitely return here, especially to sit outside on the patio to dine. Ooh! And I nearly forgot one of the best parts. Rustic Italian bread is brought to the table pre-meal, along with your regular olive oil. But they also serve full heads of roasted garlic! Yum. Just pop out a clove, and it makes the perfect topping to a bite of bread. Nice touch.

Hot Weiners!

LG, this is not an entry about your beloved dachshunds.

I headed to The Roast Grill with some peeps from work yesterday. This establishment is not much to look at. But don’t discredit. Good things come in shady packages.

the neon sign beckons you closer.

Raleigh residents and visitors over the years (since 1940) have been fond patrons of this anti-ketchup lunch counter. Order ketchup here, and you get the boot. Well, I doubt owner George enforces that rule, but he definitely doesn’t have any on hand. Ketchup’s just too sweet, and detracts from the savory, salty carne taste. There are no sides, but just dogs with approved toppings and some Greek desserts. Sodas are served in glass bottles.

no heinz here.

I posted up at the counter between two old men and ordered 2 dogs all the way: that’s two dogs blackened on the grill with hot, steamed buns, mustard, onions, slaw and homemade chili (grandma’s recipe). That’s the extent of available toppings (no cheese, bacon, pickles, kraut, Goldfish. Just the basics). There was some Texas Pete on the counter, so I added some dashes for heat. Boy, what a good dog. But apart from the quality food served up, I enjoyed talking to the regulars beside me at the counter. We discussed work, The Roast Grill institution, cigar smoking, ex-wives and local universities…including the great debate. Is “Carolina” UNC or USC? Since UNC lays claim to first public univeristy (chartered 1789, Old East 1793, doors opened 1795), I side with the UNC-Chapel Hill side of the debate. But anyhow, the conversation made for a genuine, Roast Grill experience and hospitality.

2 all the way + dc

This thin corridor of a restaurant is occupied by the large grill and hot dog prep station, lunch counter (sits about 10) and two two-top tables. So occupancy = not many. Come early if you want a seat at the counter. Also, it’s cash only.

Hot Weiners! A turn-on for the men's club across the street.

Travel Channel’s Man v. Food visited recently. Hungryman Adam Richman successfully topped the record books by consuming 17 dogs in 33 minutes (with buns, 1 pint chili, 1/2 pint mustard, 3 drinks). His picture now adorns the wall of fame. To get an idea of how much food that is, here’s a former record holder. The Roast Grill episode is set to air on the Travel Channel on March 18 at 10pm.

Visiting The Roast Grill reminded me of some of my favorite hot dog eateries I’ve visited in my day. I’ll give a brief run-down.

Sutton's Drug Store, CH © northcarolinatravels.com

1. Sutton’s Drugstore, Chapel Hill, NC

• My all-time favorite. Much for sentimental value. I’ve gone here since a wee tot with my dad and family. And in my college years, went frequently for lunch with friends. It was always a hoot.
  
• The staff is awesome. They recognize familiar faces and always cut-up with you.
• You can’t beat the Hot Dog Special. Cheap. 2 dogs (chili, slaw, Tobasco sauce, mustard), fries, drink. Also, delicious milkshakes.
  
• A popular spot among athletes and coaches.
• The drugstore is decorated with sports memorabilia, and photographs spanning decades. I love the photo of a young Dante Calabria.

Combo Dog | © Josh C. www.yelp.com

2. Zack’s, Burlington, NC (my hometown)

• A multi-generation institution in downtown Btown
  
• Servers yell “Clear!” to the cooks before shouting out hot dog code. This place is super fast. Zack doesn’t have time to waste.
  
• Glass bottle drinks, including Cheerwine!, and cartons of chocolate milk
• Fend for yourself to snag a table

3. Jim’s Tastee Freez, Graham, NC

• Pink hotdogs
• Stick around for dessert, like chocolate dipped cones of soft serve ice cream

Five Star = 60% true.

This will be brief. Isn’t that how bad briefings usually start?

The Wednesday dinner group attended Five Star for “sophisticated Asian dining.” The restaurant is located in Raleigh’s Warehouse District, and thus retrofitted to a large, brick, lofted tobacco warehouse space. There are paper lanterns hanging over the dance floor(?) by the DJ booth(?) in the bar side of the restaurant with the projector screen(?).  I think we’re on to something. FIVE STAR RESTAURANT IS ACTUALLY A CLUB.

I stalked the menu beforehand, and it seemed  promising. I ordered the Won Ton Soup and Vegetable Lo Mein.

won ton comfort food

veggie lo mein in a star bowl

The won tons were pretty al dente, but the pork filling was superbly tasty and the fresh scallions topped it off with a punch. But best of all, when the soup arrived at the table, the broth was poured over the won tons from a pitcher. Nice presentation, and unexpected. Soup gets 4 stars.

The noodles were slippery and smothered in sauce as you’d come to expect. This did not blow me away. Saucy noodles, however, did not conceal a fair amount of well-cooked veggies. The broccoli was perfect, not too raw, but not soggy, and slightly grilled. Snow peas, carrots, green and orange bell peppers, onions and mushrooms rounded out the vegetable mix. Lo Mein gets 2 stars.

That’s an average of 3 stars, and a mere 60% of their working restaurant title. FAIL. Service did not earn “Five Star” any extra points. No need to elaborate here.

I would consider Three Star again if I were in the market for over-priced take-out, a food binge or better yet a dance party. I’ll try Red Dragon next time. Or Golden China.