A very crappy, very hastily taken picture of a small portion of the spread we had at Raleigh’s Poole’s Downtown Diner this evening. In short: it was amazing, and the empire 2014 James Beard Award winner Ashley Christensen is building is not only exciting but exactly the kind of passionate, progressive business Raleigh needs – and deserves.
Before having the opportunity to dine at Poole’s, I had already gotten the distinct impression from the interviews I’ve read featuring chef Christensen, that Poole’s (et al) was a restaurant/concept/chef I could get behind and I’m happy to say I was right. Her passion for her adopted home and commitment to the revitalization of Raleigh’s downtown is inspiring, to say the least.
Poole’s local seasonal fare with a Southern lean feels like a love letter to Raleigh, highlighting what’s good in the Triangle – we had pork dishes, a variety of great greens, the best pimento cheese and chicken liver pate my husband and I had ever eaten, Mac and cheese that has edged out my DH’s as my favorite, and some truly wonderful takes on classic desserts. The staff was obviously excited about where they worked and were knowledgable, friendly and efficient.
The AC Group currently has seven open restaurants ranging from Poole’s Downtown Diner, to Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, Chuck’s (burgers), Joule Coffee + Table, Bridge Club (special events), rotating chef space Death & Taxes and Fox Liquor Bar. Aux Kitchen is coming soon.
This same evening, I waddled over to Fox Liquor Bar for after dinner drinks and was made to feel more than welcome by the bartender and server who helped pick the perfect drink(s), despite my being overwhelmed by the menu and so full from dinner that I could barely move.
On this trip, I also visited Joule for a delicious breakfast and the best almond milk I’ve ever had.
Next time I’ll make sure to book a spot at Death & Taxes and finally try Beasley’s’ chicken & waffles I’ve heard such good things about.
Gastography 