I have friends who love Yardhouse. For me, it's OK for a chain. Apparently, they have half-priced starters from 3-6 everyday. And there is an a outdoor space. (It's big and dark inside.)

http://www.indyweek.com/indyweek/at-p...

Nice review in the Indy this week......

Here is a nice article - that also provides a link to the recipe....

http://www.saveur.com/article/Travels...

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/mi...

Capital Club 16 has a really cool and welcoming vibe. They also have good beer and drinks. And the menu is varied - from small plates and snacks to full meals. It's a nice place to go before a show - and it's just a couple of blocks west of Beasley's/Chuck's. (All three of these places, I prefer the food compared with Busy Bee.)

I just provided an updated response above. But I do point out that it was at least
two years ago. I have to believe that things have improved since then, although I personally have no inclination to try and see for myself. :-)

It wasn't the decor...... the blaring TVs that were showing Nancy Grace covering the murder of a child was one thing that had a negative effect on the atmosphere. The worst thing was the service, though. If I recall correctly, we were never offered a second drink, and one of our dishes - perhaps a starter - didn't arrive until we were all finished. The table next to us received a chicken dish - not the vegetarian dish they'd ordered. This was at least two years ago - but as you can see, if made an impression.

While we love the original on Capital - I have to admit that the one time we went to the Glenwood Avenue location, it was atrocious. The service was awful - as was the atmosphere. That was a couple of years ago. But I can't imagine going back.

The Hibernian (Raleigh, Cary) do a decent fish and chips, if I recall correctly.

And the PR (Players Retreat) do it most Friday nights, using fresh cod in a beer batter. The chips leave a lot to be desired - in that they're just plain fries. (Maybe one day their chips will be as good as their homemade potato chips.)

I used to swear by the Raleigh Times for reliable genuine pub food. The last couple of times I've been, I was disappointed.

I really do love Beasley's. I love the Chicken biscuit - even thought it's messy and the biscuit falls apart before you finish it. But it's so filling (to me) that you almost don't have room for the wonderful sides/snacks. The pimiento cheese mac and cheese is really good. And I *love* the grit fries (with tabasco aioli and chow chow), Last time I had the shrimp and they were delicious. (Very lightly battered and fried local shrimp served with a smoked tomato remoulade).

I also love Capital Club 16. I love the vibe of that place. And they have small plates (unpretentious casual good food - German/Southern influenced).

How about Vivace for dinner and Coquette for breakfast?

(Although I have to say, I had a really nice breakfast dish at that hotel restaurant once. Something with eggs and chipotles.....)

I know people who love it. It's old school. They say the food is really good too - but it's not very trendy (except in a retro way). I keep meaning to check it out.

I do too. It was my "go-to" place when I wanted somewhere special and when I had friends in town. I like all the previously mentioned places. But I'm still looking for that "go-to."

Don't even talk to me about Asheville or Charleston. What I wouldn't give for one of their restaurants....

I don't even care about interesting bakeries. I just want a boulangerie - somewhere to get a nice loaf of bread. I used to love the Wellspring back in the day.....and the Big Sky (I think it was called) in Cameron Village.....

I recommend going to The Rialto. Apart from showing the best movies, they have the best (real) popcorn in town, they sell wine by the glass and they have local brews on tap. (Cash only.) Then you can stop by The Point before of after (or another Five Points hot spot) for food.

"In 2009, PDQ opened its doors in Cornelius, North Carolina under the name Tenders, renowned for its fresh chicken tenders, made to order sandwiches, fresh daily cut fries and hand-spun milkshakes. From the very beginning, Tenders was founded on the concept that high-quality food, memorable service and genuine hospitality were the cornerstones to a great restaurant.

"Our salads are made fresh everyday. Fries are hand-cut daily from perfectly ripened potatoes. Our poultry is never frozen and is prepared daily, Our sauces and dressings are mixed at the start of each day. Every ingredient is combined every day to make every bite a journey toward a complete and satisfying meal."
--

Yeah - how dare they?!

The Lollipop Shop at North Hills fits the bill. It's near the gym. If you are headed straight towards the Renaissance Hotel, it's on your left. It's a lot of fun. NOFO at Five Points also has some fun candy, altbeit not as much as the Lollipop Shop.

I haven't heard of that - but it sure sounds nice! (I only know downtown, really.)

What's "RAD?"

I just read that article too.
http://www.newsobserver.com/2012/05/1...

But this part confused me:
"the rule prohibits serving undercooked or raw foods to children."

Does this mean that my kids won't be able to order rare burgers - or sushi, for that matter?

I would also recommend Beasley's, Chuck's and Capital Club 16. They are all within walking distance of the Sheraton. Oh - and Dos Taquitos Centro. (Or are they calling themselves simply Centro now?)

I'm in the same boat. I rely on pasta salads, fruit, chicken salad, etc....

This looks good - but the ABC from the Rockford was Apple, Bacon, and Cheddar. I guess this is the risk of moving something from a regional board.......

I haven't been yet, but my friends swear by the PR (Players Retreat). They say the brunch food is amazing - and it's very reasonably priced. Humble Pie is one of my go-tos. And you can't beat Nofo for Shrimp & Grits, French Toast, or a healty fry-up. (And their juice and coffee are good!)

We went to the buffet at Cantina South recently - and although the food was good, I ended up wishing I'd just gone to Humble Pie for Huevos Rancheros! ($15 is only good if you want to eat a lot of stuff, versus paying $12 for what you wanted all along.)

Hmmmm.... I'll remember that! (I do love my Chunky Monkey and Cherry Garcia. and I appreciate that they come in small containers!)

I'm not sure whether to thank you or not! I was unfamiliar with this brand - but bought some (at my local Kroger in Raleigh) out of curiosity. Now I can't stop eating it. And it *is* a very big tub! My daughter helped me select one that's vanilla with chocolate chunks and nuts.

Can you drive past it again to get more info?

I don't have one either! Thanks anyway!

Great tip. Thanks!