Raleigh-NC

Imagine a dining experience that combines an atmosphere of classical history and elegance with a selection of cuisine that is as exquisitely unique as it is delicious. Then imagine delighting your senses with a world-class wine selection. Now imagine finding this right here in the Triangle. It’s not imagination, it’s Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern. Located in the beautifully restored Dodd-Hinsdale House in downtown Raleigh,

Life is short, eat dessert first." John Poole may have taken Winston Churchill's words to heart when he opened Poole's Pie Shop in 1945. For six years the cozy spot was a veritable holy grail of pies - all sweet - but soon their patrons wanted more.

In the early 1950's, "chicken slick," sandwiches, and a daily "hot plate" made their way onto the Poole's menu, and the line to be served wrapped around the corner. The pie shop moved out, as Poole's Pies became Poole's Luncheonette, and a downtown hot-spot was born. We'd like to think it was the first.

Bu•ku is a local restaurant that tells a global story. The name "bu•ku" itself is an international slang twist on the phrase, "Merci, beaucoup" meaning, "Thank you very much." Inspired by the pushcarts of street vendors in cities across the globe, our chefs harvest an array of unique and distinct flavors and present them authentically, in a virtual kaleidoscope of plates.

The common link: these are foods that people love.

North Carolina is known for its legendary barbecue joints. We proudly continue this tradition by serving authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue at The Pit in downtown Raleigh's warehouse district.

A celebration of all of the great culinary offerings of the Old North State, The Pit has made a name for itself as the destination for the state's signature cuisine. The pigs used to produce the barbecue are all raised in North Carolina using free-range farming practices, and the freshest of the state's bountiful produce is featured in the starters, sides and desserts.

Barry's Café opened on May the 19th, 1992 with only 50 seats in the Swift Creek Shopping Center of Cary, NC. The owner Barry Doyle had only a couple things in mind and those were to provide the community with a family restaurant that people would think of as their second home, not to overcook the burgers. Barry’s desire was to provide the community with a homemade breakfast and great hamburgers and hot fries. The restaurant's mission was to make each person happier than when they first came in the door.

Want to really understand a city's unique flavor? Eat where the locals do!
Porter's City Tavern is Raleigh's treasured neighborhood spot. But if you're expecting ordinary pub fare, think again. Porter's offers inventive sandwiches and salads, fresh pasta, and inspired chef's specials, against an upbeat, urban backdrop.

The Busy Bee is one of the brighter spots in Raleigh’s electric beer community. Its exposed brick walls and rafters create an urban draw, but it’s the beer that really fills the seats. Nearly 80 bottles, including highly sought-after brands like Mikkeller Beer Geek Breakfast and Cascade The Vine, fill the fridges, while 14 taps round out the upstairs and downstairs bars.

Our menu changes daily so please feel free to call us at (919) 424-7817 with any questions.

Some of the more popular items are burgers, sandwiches, shrimp & grits, organic chicken hoppin' john, and braised lamb shanks.