Best Bites of March 2024
It is such an exciting time to eat in the Triangle! From newly established eateries introducing innovative flavors to beloved classics serving up consistent deliciousness, there's never been a better time to explore culinary delights in the area. Here are some highlights from my month of eating to take into next month and beyond!
Must-try Restaurant of Month: Figulina
Opening last month (February 2024) in former Humble Pie space in the Warehouse District in Downtown Raleigh, Figulina is a pasta lover’s dream. From homemade pasta to an extensive apertif and digestif menu - this is a must- try in Downtown Raleigh.
The Perfect Bite: Pappardelle Bolognese
Is there anything more comforting than a bowl of Pappardalle Bolognese? Especially when the pasta is made fresh - I mean what could be better. If you are looking for an elevated classic, look no further, or you can check out their more experimental pasta dishes, equally as delicious.
Montecristo | Brunch @ Cucciolo Terrazza
Is there a better feeling than when your favorite Italian spot starts serving brunch?! Cucciolo Terrazza, the sister restaurant to its Durham counterpart, starting serving brunch last year and I finally got to check it out this month.
Brunch at Cucciolo Terrazza is unique - serving brunch classics to homey, bruchworthy pasta dishes (along with brunch cocktails and espress drinks). I chose a classic - the Montecristo - and could not be happier with my decision. As lover of a savory and sweet combo, especially at Brunch, this dish sure did impress.
Coquilles St.-Jacques Grenobloise | Bluebird
The second brainchild of the Michelin chef, Brian Sharp, Bluebird opened in 2022 in Chapel Hill to much acclaim. Self-described as Chapel Hill’s “Little Slice of Paris”, this bistro presents classic French techiques with old-world hospitality.
Their distinctly French menu posed a delicious challenge: with so many tempting options, deciding what to eat became a dilemma. Among the standout dishes were the crispy frites, duck, and decadent creme brûlée. However, the pinnacle of perfection came in the form of a scallop, perfectly balanced with the herbaceousness and bright acidity of their accompaniments. Voula!
Pork Schnitzel | J. Betski’s
Though European cuisines are well represented across the Triangle (think Spanish tapas, Greek and Italian), Eastern/Central European flavors often go unhighlighted. J.Betski’s properly fills that void with the Polish delicacies like pierogis, Austrian-style schnitzel, and more inspired dishes like the Pierogi Burger. With a porch and plenty of parking, this gem makes for a great spot for bite with friends.
My standout was the Pork Schnitzel, perfectly paired with a cucumber salad, potato salad, cranberry sauce, and a lemon wedge, to cut the fattiness of the schitzel. I cannot recommend J.Betski’s enough if you a craving the flavors for Central/Eastern Europe in Raleigh.
Key Lime Pie | Hayes Barton Cafe + Dessertery
I finally was able to enter the hallowed grounds of Hayes Barton Cafe + Dessertery, right smack in the middle of the Five Points neighborhood in Raleigh. Established in 1998, this iconic Raleigh spot is adorned with pictures of Hollywood starlets and photos of Elvis, and lined with the classic red booths - feels straight out of the 1950s. Beyond its nostalgic decor, it’s the dessert cooler that have really put this spot on the Raleigh’s tastebuds.
As you enter the diner, you are immediately greeted with the a plethora of cakes and pies, towering in a simple dessert cooler. Almost overwhelmingly, you are tempted by the wide of variety of sweets. Since I was there specifically for Pi Day, I had to choose their pie options - key lime pie and peanut butter-chocolate pie. I was thoroughly impressed with both, but the Key Lime took the cake - perfectly done, not too sweet with slightly salty crust.
Nashville Hot Chicken Biscuit | The Morning Times
One of Downtown Raleigh’s OG coffeeshops, serving cups since 2006, The Morning Times rarely misses. It’s iconic “Raleigh” sign and bi-level sitting makes the perfect spot for work-from-the-coffeeshop session or for a quick drop-in togo order.
I am sucker for a breakfast biscuit and just had to try the Nashville Hot Chicken biscuit. The perfectly spicy chicken filet was accompanied by a tomato and flakey biscuit - can you name a better way to start the day?
Blue Bay Bowl | Nautical Bowls Cary
Who doesn’t love an Acai Bowl spot? Local franchisers have opened the Triangle’s first Nautical Bowls at a prolific grand opening on March 16. With options to build-your-bowl or choose from curated signatures, there is really no way you can go wrong.
The Blue Bay Bowl has it all - pitaya, chia pudding, acai base with the perfect combo toppings to create texture and fun flavor combos. This is the perfect bowl for someone who cannot decide what they want!
Pancake Flight | Pineapple Sol
More pancakes, the better! Founded by the female entrepreneur duo of Dahiana Vitabar and Aleena Azha, Pineapple Sol is perfect brunch or coffee spot, located in the Waverley District in Cary.
They offer several flights for notoriously indecisive folks - lemonade, lattes and more - we opted for the pancake flight and so glad we did! The fluffy flapjacks are scrumptiously sweet - the perfect trio of sweet brunch lovers. Lavender, blueberry, and cookies n’ creme are the flavors for this month.
