Friday Fun Food Facts - February 18, 2011

Triangle restaurant news...that not everyone knows. Impress your co-workers at the water cooler.

• If you are a fan of William D'Auvray, former chef at Fins and bu.ku, we've got great news. It was announced this week that he would be the chef at a new Thai restaurant opening in the former Duck & Dumpling location in Moore Square in downtown Raleigh. The restaurant will be called Fai Thai. While there is not set date for opening. earlier reports indicated end of first quarter, early second quarter.

• Also in downtown Raleigh came word this week from the N&O's Sue Stock that the RBC Plaza in downtown Raleigh has landed its first retail occupant, a restaurateur familiar with downtown Raleigh. G. Patel, who also owns The Oxford and Sono in downtown and Mura in North Hills, will open a new Pan Asian restaurant on the bottom floor of the RBC Plaza building. Expected to open this year, there is no word yet on the name.

• Downtown Raleigh's Cherry Bomb, which replaced Joe's Place about seven months ago, will re-open in March as it transforms into Brewmaster's Bar and Grill. In addition to a new menu, and over 60-featured beers, they will host beginner homebrewing classes!

• Raleigh's Hillsborough Street underwent major renovations in hopes of attracting new life to the area, and this week came an announcement from blogger GoGoRaleigh that it appears to be working. The extremely popular fast-Mex concept Chipotle Mexican Grill announced that it would be opening the Triangle's fifth location across from campus. While the exact location hasn't been confirmed, the chain hopes to have it open by this summer.

• Over in Durham, Bear Rock Café has successfully completed its move from University Mall in Chapel Hill to Durham, specifically the former, and recently renovated, Rick's Diner location at 4015 University Drive. Stop in and give Len Morton and his crew a warm Durham welcome!

• And just across the street, the N&O's Andrea Weigl tweeted yesterday that Shane Ingram of Four Square Restaurant fame, is set to open a new restaurant: G2B (burgers, beer & charcuterie) in the old Starlu location. It is expected to open later this spring or in the early summer. The location is on the corner of University Drive and Shannon Road, on the backside of the building there on the corner.

• Back over in Raleigh, El Rodeo Grill at 7420 Six Forks Road, will open its doors this Monday under a new name - La Rancherita - and with a new, expanded menu. Might want to drop in next week to enjoy their "grand re-opening" celebrations with lots of drink specials.

• Chapel Hill (and really the entire Triangle) was dealt a huge blow this week with the news that Bonne Soiree, located in Chapel Hill's Courtyard, will be closing at the end of the April as Chip & Tina Smith plan to move to New York City. Make your plans to get in there between now and the end of April. Or, plan a trip to New York!

• Raleigh's hottest entertainment district, Glenwood South, got word this week that Bogart's will close its doors at the end of the month after a 10 year run. This follows on the footsteps of the news that another member of the Rocky Top Hospitality group, Michael Dean's, is being replaced by Tribeca Tavern's second location. But Bogart's is going out in style, with a five-day celebration starting next Wednesday in which 10% of all proceeds will be donated to charity. Get by next week to give your last respects to Bogart's.

• In downtown Raleigh the Wild Ginger Café, a sushi and Asian Bistro located on the ground floor of the new Progress Energy Building on Davie Street, is currently closed for renovations. No word on when it will re-open.

• The list of James Beard Foundation semifinalists came out yesterday and seven local chefs are on the list for Best Chef Southeast. They are: Ashley Christensen, Poole's Diner of Raleigh; Andrea Reusing, Lantern of Chapel Hill; Chip Smith, Bonne Soiree in Chapel Hill; Aaron Vandemark, Panciuto in Hillsborough; Scott Crawford, Herons at Umstead Hotel in Cary; Scott Howell, Nana's in Durham; Shane Ingram, Four Square in Durham. Durham's Magnolia Grill also was nominated in the Outstanding Restaurant category. Its chef-owners Ben and Karen Barker are the state's only James Beard award-winning chefs. See more here.

• In addition, Aaron Vandemark of Panciuto in Hillsborough was named one of the Best New Chef's in the Southeast by Food & Wine magazine. If you'd like to vote for Aaron, please do so here.

• Listen up Food Truck fans! There is a Food-Truck-Round-Up this Saturday from 2-8 pm at Johnny's of Carrboro and 5% will go to Table, a local non-profit that helps to feed hungry children in Chapel Hill and Carrboro. Participating trucks (at this point) are: Will & Pop's, Joe D's Hotdogs, Only Burger, ParlezVous Crepes, Valentino's Italian, Local Cookie, Johnny's Taco Truck...and more I'm sure.

• The Angus Barn will hold a complimentary wine tasting this Sunday, February 20th with certified Sommelier Henk Schuitemaker and his staff. The tasting will be from 3:30 to 5 pm. Reservations are not required. Complimentary Wine Cellar tours will be available. Please email Kecia Bobbitt or Paige Person for all inquiries or call 919.787.3505.

• Want to know where the hottest new restaurant scene in the Triangle is? You might check the new Terminal 2 at RDU! Check out this line-up - 42nd Street Oyster Bar, Brookwood Farms BBQ, Breugger's Bagel, California Pizza Kitchen, Carolina Ale House, Carolina Vintages, Five Guys, Gordeon Biersch, Jason's Deli, KFC Express, Panopolis and of course, Starbucks! Makes me want to fly!

• The two Triangle locations of California Pizza Kitchen will be donating 20% of sales on February 22nd and February 28th to the St. Baldrick's Foundation providing needed funds for curing childhood cancers. Make your reservations now and support a great cause. More information is available here.

• Here's another fun "food" fundraiser. The 5th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser will be held on March 3rd from 5:30 to 8 pm at the Armory in Durham to benefit Urban Ministries of Durham's food pantry. Tickets are $30 for soup sampling and an artisan bowl to take home or $15 for just the soup. Get more information here.

• If you are a chef or restaurant owner, listen up. The Holly Springs Farmers Market is looking for chefs to be featured as part of their Farm to Table Chef series sponsored by Rex Healthcare. The market opens May 7 and runs through October. Contact me if you are interested.

• And for you do-it-yourselfers out there, there is a workshop scheduled for March 5 at Marbles Kid Museum called Dig In, designed for anyone who wants to build and maintain a community garden or gain expertise for success in a home garden. Register here.

• This is worth keeping around for a couple of issues - N&O's Greg Cox put out his annual list of The Best Restaurants in the Triangle. It is quite an impressive list and can be viewed here in a "prnter-friendly" format, or a more entertaining interactive format here.

• And we close with a cool, fun food fact. A recent survey by the National Restaurant Association shows that nearly 50 percent of restaurants are now owned by women. The research also shows that restaurants employ more minority managers than any other industry, and that Hispanic restaurant ownership has increased 42 percent in the past five years.

Friday Fun Food Facts - February 11, 2011

Triangle restaurant news...that not everyone knows. Impress your co-workers at the water cooler.

• I begin with a HUGE thank you for all the support and following I've received with the launch of the Triangle's only locally-owned online catering service - Triangle Food Guy. The first week far exceeded my expectations and the feedback has been phenomenal. If you haven't visited or used us, get on over now and take advantage of the Bailey's promotion for $500, $300 and $200 gift certificates. Order away!

• Unfortunately, I opened my paper this morning to find some closings being reported by the N&O's Sue Stock. The first is up in North Raleigh on Creedmoor Road, where the Crowley's in Stonehenge Market has closed.

• Also in North Raleigh, across Glenwood Ave./70 from the airport, The Westgate Deli on Westgate Road has closed. It was really a cute little deli, just a little off the beaten bath.

• And finally, the Wendy's on U.S. 70 East in Clayton has closed.

• Now onto some better news. Looks like the country's first two-story Chick-fil-A is a little bit closer to reality for Raleigh's Cameron Village. Plans for the new concept were submitted to the city of Raleigh this week, and if all goes well, it will be open this fall. The new location will feature a 2nd level patio, a two-lane drivethru and a conveyor system to expedite food to the drivethru and 2nd story.

• In Chapel Hill, the Carolina Brewery turned 16 this week and is celebrating all week. Get by either the Chapel Hill location (which has free valet parking on weekends) or the Pittsboro location to help them celebrate. Visit their site for more information.

• The N&O's Greg Cox featured two little deli/cafes that are also off the beaten path but well worth the visit. The first is one that opened a few months ago called Big City Bagels & Café which is on Six Forks Road in the Celebration at Six Forks (7461 Six Forks Road). It has a side street-facing location, so might take a little effort to find.

• The other "hidden jewel," over on the outskirts of Durham at 5108 Wake Forest Highway, is a little shop called the Ham 'n' Egger Café. They are open for breakfast and lunch and serve up a unique variety of sandwiches.


• Tyler's Taproom, with locations in Carrboro, Durham and Apex, is now serving up a new menu that is worth the visit. Of particular note are their new burgers. Give them a visit if you haven't been in a while.

• Speaking of new menus, Which Wich Superior Sandwiches has added two larger sandwich sizes - 10.5 inches and a 14-inch Superwich - to complement the classic 7-inch item. In addition, Which Wich has added a 32-ounce plastic stadium cup. The Triangle is currently home to one location (Lake Boone Trail), but rumor has it that a second location is in the works.

• Here's a fun family-oriented event to put on your calendar. The 2011 ChillyFest, which is an old-fashioned Chili Cook Off benefiting the Boys and Girls Club of Wake County. The event will take place from noon until 5 pm on Saturday, February 26th on the 100 block of Fayetteville Street. More information on their Facebook page.

• A quick shout-out of congratulations to Dean Ogan, onwer of Rocky Top Hospitality, who was named restaurateur of the year by the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association. Rocky Top owns Micheal Dean's (which closes next Monday to make room for the 2nd location of Tribeca Tavern), Red Room, Bogart's, High-5, Twisted Fork, Fayetteville's Mash House, Tribeca Tavern and Rocky Top Catering.

• If you are a big fan of the "daily deal" sites like Groupon, Twongo and LivingSocial, you may want to bookmark Sue Stock's blog at the N&O. Sue is now doing a daily summary of the deals. Find it here.

• Okay, Valentine procrastinators, here are some very important links for you. The first is a listing of cooking classes, Valentine's Day dinners, tours and more put together by the N&O's Andrea Weigl. The second is Greg Cox's hot list of romantic places. And if you are over in Durham, blogger Carpe Durham has put together a list of Valentine dinner options in the Bull City.

• Looking to buy a restaurant? Or maybe 426? Well, according to the Triangle Business Journal, this week the majority stakeholder in Bojangles' is selling its investment. The Charlotte-based fried chicken chain (with 36 of its locations here in the Triangle) could be yours for the right price. Anyone?

• And in another bit of funny/ironic news this week, Moe's Southwest Grill announced that it is starting its support of Meatless Mondays to support the growing number of vegetarians, part-time vegetarians and others just looking to eat healthier. But across the way, this past Monday Hooters began offering "Burger Mondays" - launching five new specialty burger options. Funny world we live in.

• And for you do-it-yourselfers out there, there is a workshop scheduled for March 5 at Marbles Kid Museum called Dig In, designed for anyone who wants to build and maintain a community garden or gain expertise for success in a home garden. Register here.

• This is worth keeping around for a couple of issues - N&O's Greg Cox put out his annual list of The Best Restaurants in the Triangle. It is quite an impressive list and can be viewed here in a "prnter-friendly" format, or a more entertaining interactive format here.

Friday Fun Food Facts - February 4, 2011

Triangle restaurant news...that not everyone knows. Impress your co-workers at the water cooler.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Without too much shameless self-promotion, I did want to take this opportunity to let everyone know that this week I launched the Triangle's only locally-owned online corporate catering website - aptly named Triangle Food Guy.

Please take a moment to visit the site, and by all means, if you have corporate catering needs - order away! There's also
a promotion right now for $500, $300 and $200 gift cards to Bailey's Fine Jewelry

I've been doing this for seven years and am extremely excited to now have my very own operation and would love the opportunity to work with each of you!

Check out the site!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

• Rocky Top Hospitality Group this week announced that their 13-year-old, flagship restaurant Michael Dean's would close after Valentine's Day. The good news is that it will quickly become the newest location for Rocky Top's hottest new concept - Tribeca Tavern (the original location is over in Cary). Look for a mid-March opening of Tribeca in that Falls of the Neuse Road location. And take note that there are already plans for a third and fourth location! Stay tuned.
  
• I think this was the most anticipated, most talked about opening in recent history, but it is official now - Streets Restaurant Deli & Market in Chapel Hill is NOW OPEN! And let me tell you from experience (the wife and I ate there on Wednesday), it is good. Listen up New Yorkers, get over there and let me know what you think! They are located in the 54 East complex heading into Chapel Hill (right behind the Aloft Hotel).
  
• Downtown Raleigh is in line to get a new restaurant with a Mediterranean focus according to the N&O's Greg Cox. Babylon is slated to open at 309 N. Dawson Street in March. The menu will be Mediterranean in focus, with Moroccan and Southern European influences.
  
• I noted this back in my January 21st edition, but it is certainly worth another mention - if you are looking for a truly authentic Cuban sandwich, look no further than downtown Durham (301 E. Main Street) where Old Havana Sandwich Shop has opened. The reviews coming in are that this is the real deal!

• Last week we noted that Il Forno Italian Grill in Holly Springs had closed. Well, Sue Stock at the N&O is reporting this morning that Fiesta Mexicana will take over that spot with their fifth Triangle location. No word yet on the timing.

• In the "This is Completely Rumor" file this week, we are hearing rumors that the Lake Boone location of Chubby Taco will move down the strip into the recently vacated 2nd City Grill location. We haven't been able to get confirmation on that, but we can certainly see why the extremely popular taco joint needs more room!

• Chapel Hill has a new food truck - well, I guess it depends on if you consider donuts as "food" (I know I certainly do). Anyway, @DoughnetteTruck (for you Twitter people) is making its premier this Friday at Wootini, an arts gallery located in the heart of Carrboro on Lloyd Street (right across from the Cats Cradle). Looks like they'll be frying up come raised apple cider donuts beginning at 7 p.m.

• And keeping with the donut theme, tomorrow morning is the 7th annual Krispy Kreme Challenge. If you are not familiar with it - "runners" begin at the NC State Bell Tower, run 2 miles to the Krispy Kreme on Peace Street, eat a dozen donuts, and "run" back - in under an hour. This is a great spectator event - don't forget your camera.
  
• And the final "donut" mention of this issue is that February is "Chocolate Lovers Month" at Dunkin Donuts and they are rolling out a new line of donuts just for the month - Cocoa Confetti, Reverse Boston Kreme and Cocoa Kreme Puff - all for $.89.
  
• Fish-eaters in Durham take note. The Fish Shack in Durham has closed. The fish version of the Shack, was a concept crated by Dan Ferguson, owner of The Original Q Shack - which remains alive and kicking as usual. The Fish Shack was located on University Drive right next to The Original Q Shack.

• We got word this week due to an observant passerby, that the Edelweiss Café in City Market Square (317 Blake Street) in downtown Raleigh has closed. In addition to this observation, the number is disconnected and the website is down. Edelweiss opened in 2007 in Selma - and moved to Raleigh two years later.
  
• Have you made Valentine's Day plans yet? Well, the N&O's Andrea Weigl has put together a very nice list of both Valentine's Day dinners as well as cooking classes (for those opting for the at-home romantic evening). Check it out here.

• And here are a few more Valentine's dinner options put together for you by the N&O's Greg Cox - a list of "romantic" spots for the big holiday. Check it out here.
  
• And of special note, Ashley Christensen, owner/chef of Poole's Downtown Diner, has announced that she will donate 100% of the profits from her restaurant's Valentine's Day dinner service to Cookies for Kids' Cancer. That Ashley sure has a big heart!
  
• And on the Valentine's theme, Cary's Matthews House will have a dinner and dance on Saturday, February 12 beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a champagne toast and candlelit dinner. Reservations are only $50 per person, so call 919.467.1944 to make your reservations. Even better, overnight stay packages are available!
  
• The Q Shack in Raleigh has some good news rolling out. The first is that their bread is now being handmade by the infamous Neomonde Bakery in Morrisville. Just when you thought their barbecue couldn't get any better. They've also got some great catering options for the Super Bowl as well as $1 ribs all day on Valentine's Day. The Q Shack is the perfect place to take your honey on Valentine's! See more on their site.
  
• Bruegger's is having a birthday and you get the "gifts" - 3 free bagels on February 8th. But here's the catch (although it is not really a catch because you wouldn't go to someone's birthday party unless you were friends with them, right?), but you have to "friend" them on Facebook or join their e-mail list to get this coupon - go here.
  
• If you're looking for a place to watch the Super Bowl on Sunday, you might try one of the area's Carolina Ale House locations. Not only is the food great, and the atmosphere perfect for watching the biggest football game of the year, but they'll also be giving away 42-inch HDTVs at all their locations at half-time. Find a location near you here.
  
• Blu Seafood and Bar in Durham is offering two special dinners this month: an "Oyster Extravaganza" on February 9th and a wine dinner featuring Spanish cuisine on February 16th. To make a reservation for either night, call 286.9777. More details on their website.
  
• Do you want to own an ice-cream shop? Well, the owners of Goodberry's (Raleigh's very own) want to talk to you. The makers of Goodberry's are beginning to offer the brand's first franchising opportunities to area developers and franchisee operators. This process will begin in April. Visit their site for more information.
  
• T.G.I. Friday's announced a new menu featuring 14 new items. Everything from appetizers, to entrees, to beverages to their dessert menu. Check out their new menu items here.
  
• This is a little out of our area, but worth noting for any trips west. Durham-based Local Yogurt will be opening up its fourth location near Elon University in March (116 W. Lebanon Ave.). The other three locations are in Durham, Raleigh and Greenville.
  
• And for you do-it-yourselfers out there, there is a workshop scheduled for March 5 at Marbles Kid Museum called Dig In, designed for anyone who wants to build and maintain a community garden or gain expertise for success in a home garden. Register here.

• This is worth keeping around for a couple of issues - N&O's Greg Cox put out his annual list of The Best Restaurants in the Triangle. It is quite an impressive list and can be viewed here in a "prnter-friendly" format, or a more entertaining interactive format here.

• Looking for a unique Valentine's dinner for two? PoshNosh Catering is doing a dinner show, cocktails and dinner on Monday, February 14th at Flanders Gallery at 302 S. West Street in Raleigh. It begins at 6:30 and the cost is $150 per person. Contact Coleen at 919.839.6004 to get your reservation.

Friday Fun Food Facts - January 28, 2011

Triangle restaurant news...that not everyone knows. Impress your co-workers at the water cooler.

• Downtown Raleigh is taking a couple of big blows this week with closings being reported by the N&O's Sue Stock. The popular lunchtime spot, The Brass Grill, has unexpectedly closed according to a sign on the door. If you've been there lately, I don't think you would have seen that coming. It will be missed.
  
• Also, in a blow to Raleigh's City Plaza, Krispy Kreme has announced that they will close up that location after this weekend's NHL All-Star game festivities. The store opened in October of 2009 and has a lease that runs through 2014.
  
• In better Krispy Kreme news, they are set to open a new store in Fuquay-Varina in April at 728 N. Judd Parkway.

• And if that is not enough sugar, folks in Fuquay can also get more goodies at the Cup Cake Bite - a new cupcake shop that just opened at 512 Broad Street. This follows the success of Fuquay's Aviator Brewing Company and the soon to open barbecue restaurant affiliated with the brewing company. You've got to love "The Quay" - beer, pig, cupcakes and donuts!

• A few weeks ago we told you about the opening of Bellini over in Raleigh (former EVOO on Oberlin Road). Well, now those same owners have opened up a new "ristorante | pizzeria" called Vino at the intersection of Morrisville Carpenter Road and Davis Drive.

• And not far from there, Durham is now home to the Triangle's first location of Jake's Wayback Burgers. It marks the North Carolina's third location and is located right along Highway 54 near the exchange with 540. It is in the same center as the new, gigantic Wal-Mart/Sam's complex.

• And Durham now has its very own pizza truck - Pie Pushers. You can follow them on Twitter @piepushers.

• Heading over to Chapel Hill, this past Sunday saw the grand opening of Jahan International Market & Persian Tea Room. They are located in the same strip as The Pig - yet another example of the diversity of Chapel Hill!

• Back over in Raleigh, Bangkok Thai is now open in Wakefield. The address is 13200 New Falls of Neuse Rd. - which is right next to the Food Lion and in the same strip as Hayashi and the new Wakefield Tavern.

• Unfortunately, a few more closings to report. 2nd City Grill, located in the Lake Boone shopping center, has closed according to the N&O's Sue Stock. And the Il Forno Italian Grill in South Park Village in Holly Springs has closed.
  
• The Triangle is stepping up and quickly gaining a reputation as a destination for craft beer lovers. The N&O's Andrea Weigl wrote a great article on this "bubbling" scene noting the area's nine breweries, five annual beer festivals and even a "brews cruise" tour. Last year, the number of breweries from Durham to Fuquay-Varina rose to 11. Four more are expected to open this year, and another four are within a 90-minute drive. Read the entire article here.
  
• In other alcohol related news, this week North Carolina welcomed the opening of its 100th vineyard (Cauble Creek Vineyards in Salisbury). North Carolina now finds itself 7th on the list of largest wine-producing states in the nation (on a side note, I read that we were once #1, prior to prohibition). Keep up with all the state's vineyards at this cool site.
  

• The N&O's Greg Cox just put out his annual list of The Best Restaurants in the Triangle. It is quite an impressive list and can be viewed here in a "prnter-friendly" format, or a more entertaining interactive format here.

• The 14 area Moe's Southwest Grill locations are celebrating the All Star weekend in the Triangle by offering 99-cent Joey Junior burritos today (Friday)! Visit here to find a nearby location.

• Dickey's Barbecue is giving away free samples TODAY (Friday) from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. of it's new Spicy Cheddar Sausage. It will become a menu item next Tuesday, so this is your chance to get a sneak preview. Find a Dickey's near you here.
  
• Make a note on your calendar. On Tuesday, Feb. 8th, Bruegger's Bagels will host a "birthday bash" giving away free bagels until 2 p.m. Only catch, a coupon is required that you can obtain by either signing up for their newsletter or by "liking" them on Facebook.
  
• Looking for a unique Valentine's dinner for two? PoshNosh Catering is doing a dinner show, cocktails and dinner on Monday, February 14th at Flanders Gallery at 302 S. West Street in Raleigh. It begins at 6:30 and the cost is $150 per person. Contact Coleen at 919.839.6004 to get your reservation.

• An here are a few more Valentine's dinner options put together for you by the N&O's Greg Cox - a list of "romantic" spots for the big holiday. Check it out here.

Friday Fun Food Facts - January 21, 2011

Triangle restaurant news...that not everyone knows. Impress your co-workers at the water cooler.

• Just a reminder that next week is Triangle Restaurant Week, a great chance to get out and try some new restaurants and new fare. As part of the week, restaurants are offering 3-course meals (appetizer/entrée/dessert) for a fixed price of $15 for lunch and $20 or $30 for dinner. A complete listing of restaurants (74 at this point) and their menus can be found here.

• The N&O's Sue Stock reported this morning that Greek Fiesta is expected to open its sixth Triangle location in March in the former Pita Delite spot in the Towne North shopping center (8315 Creedmoor Road). Visit their site here.
  

• Over in downtown Durham the much-anticipated Old Havana Sandwich Shop opened this past Thursday at 310 East Main Street. Old Havana specializes in authentic Cuban sandwiches, made using local, pasture-raised heirloom breeds of pork. Get more information here.
  

• And up in North Raleigh, we've been "watching" this and we can now report (thanks for Julie & Tara) that the Bedford Sushi and Grill is now open!

• Also on our "watch list" is Streets Deli in East 54 in Chapel Hill. The self-proclaimed authentic Big City Jewish Style delicatessen and fresh market is expected to open on Tuesday, February 1st. I lost count, but I think this is around the 10th "open date" I have seen/heard, but our sources are fairly certain on this one. Keep up with them on Facebook and sign up for their newsletter here.
  

• We mentioned this briefly last week, but The Treehouse Café opened this past Thursday near the intersection of Hwy 54 & 55 in Durham. The Treehouse Café is the creation of Jeremy Colon who you may recognize from the area Bear Rocks. The Treehouse features salads, panini's, wraps, sandwiches, soups and hot pastas. Best of luck to Jeremy.
  

• The N&O's Greg Cox noted a couple of new eateries this week. The first is The Sahara Mediterranean Restaurant, which opened in the little red-roofed building on 805 W. Peace St. near Broughton High School. The counter service eatery serves Middle Eastern fare - specifically, the dishes of Rania Shammas' native Syria.

• The other was The Artisan that opened last month on Glenwood South. The Artisian, which features authentic Greek/Mediterranean cuisine, is located directly behind The Diner and offers a daily lunch buffet (brunch buffet on the weekends) and dinner. Visit their site here.

• The N&O's Sue Stock also delivered some great news this morning. As we reported a few weeks back, the Dairy Queen on Walnut Street in Cary closed. That's the bad news. The good news, according to Stock, is that they will reopen later next month under new ownership as a DQ Grill & Chill with Orange Julius!

• If you drove down New Bern Avenue in Raleigh (near Wake Med) this past week you surely noticed the line of cars wrapped around the newly opened Popeye's near the intersection with Trawick Road. Maybe there is a reason it is located so close to Wake Med and their new heart center. Just sayin'.

• There is a new food truck in the Triangle - Will & Pop's. W & P is typically parked at the Short Stop across from the Farmer's Market in downtown Carrboro for breakfast and lunch and at Cliff's Meat Market for late nights. Go here to friend them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.
  

• And speaking of food trucks, Carpe Durham unveiled a new beta site that tracks all the food trucks in the area telling you exactly where they are at any given moment. Looks like they have a few kinks to work out, but it is pretty cool. Check it out here.

• Speaking of cool (literally and figuratively), if you're looking to grab a bite to eat before a Canes game, don't limit yourself to the slim pickins' right around the RBC Center. There is now a luxury bus service, the Pepsi Caniac Coach, that will pick you up in downtown Raleigh, Glenwood South and North Hills and take you to and from the game. The schedule and routes are available here.

• In the event that you were under a rock this week, Starbucks introduced a new concept in coffee consumption - a cup you can crawl in and have coffee poured over you. OK, it's not that big, but they did introduce their Trenta size, which is 7 ounces larger than their Venti. That's a lot of Joe.
  

• And in other Starbucks' news, you can now pay for your coffee using your iPhone, iPod touch, or BlackBerry. Now that's pretty cool.

• Not to be outdone by Starbucks, Caribou Coffee announced this week that all their stores are now offering breakfast sandwiches.

• Speaking of breakfast, listen up Brigs fans (you know who you are). Brigs announced this week that they are extending the hours of their popular $5.99 weekday breakfast special. You can now get that deal all the way until 11 am on any weekday. Brigs has 5 Triangle locations. Find the one closest to you.
  

• The Beyu Café in downtown Durham is expanding their hours to include a brunch on Sunday, starting Sunday, January 30. The café will be open from 9 am until 3 pm. Look for things like French Toast, Eggs Benedict, and Breakfast Crepes. Check them out here.
  

• The Angus Barn is hopping with events - two of which we'll mention briefly here. Get all the event information here. The first is this Sunday (January 23) and is a complimentary Italian Wine Tasting in The Wild Turkey Lounge. The tasting will be from 3:30 pm until 5 pm. Reservations are not required and complimentary Wine Cellar tours will be available. And on Saturday, February 12th they will be hosting their Valentine's Winemaker Dinner at the Lakeside Pavilion featuring dancing and music. $95 per person.

• If you're in downtown Raleigh next Friday and looking for free food, head on over to Dickey's Barbecue on East Davie Street where they will be handing out samples of their new Spicy Cheddar Sausage. This is your chance to get an early taste of this new limited-time product that they'll start selling on Feb. 1st.
  

• But if Friday doesn't work for you, head down to Dickey's either of the last two Mondays of January where they are doing their $1 sandwiches again (limit of two per person - so don't be a pig). The good news is you can get this deal at any of their three Triangle locations. Find the closest location to you here.
  

• There are new Quizno's coupons out for those of you looking for a lunch deal. The coupons are for a free drink and chips when you buy a sub or salad. But hurry up, the coupons expire Jan. 25.

• And finally, it is not too early to start thinking about a nice Valentine's dinner. The N&O's Greg Cox has got you covered and has put together a list of "romantic" spots for the big holiday. Check it out here.

Friday Fun Food Facts - January 14, 2011

Triangle restaurant news...that not everyone knows. Impress your co-workers at the water cooler.

• We start out this week in The Quay - Fuquay-Varina to be exact. Looks like they are getting a new restaurant next month - Aviator Smokehouse Barbecue Restaurant - which is an extension of the very successful Aviator Brewing Company launched by Mark Doble. We'll keep you posted once we get an exact open date.

• Tham Nguyen has announced that he will open his third Triangle-area restaurant in April. Nguyen owns Tasu Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar in Brier Creek (near the Chick-fil-A) and Shiki Sushi in Durham. His third location will open in April in the former Bentely's restaurant location in Cary's Crossroads. That restaurant will also be Tasu Asian Bistro and Sushi Bar.

• The last retail space in downtown Raleigh's City Plaza has been filled, and by a tenant familiar with downtown Raleigh - Crema. Located in the Bank of America building, getting a cup of mocha just got a little easier.

• The N&O's Sue Stock is reporting this morning that Sushi Nine has opened at 3812 Western Blvd. in Raleigh. That is the location next to McDonald's and across the way from Amedeo's Italian Restaurant.

• Listen up kids (and moms and dads). Downtown Apex's 3 Kids Diner and General Store reopened back in December at 775 Center Street. Its initial opening in 2009 only lasted about 5 months, but those that enjoyed a kid-friendly breakfast or lunch there will be excited about this news.

• Over in Durham, Red Zen has opened on Durham Chapel Hill Blvd. after owner Freddy Lee remodeled the former Pao Lim. Interesting twist, Lee was the original owner of Pao Lim before selling it about 8 years ago. Fans of Pao Lim will recognize some of the more popular dishes on the Red Zen menu.

• Up in North Raleigh, Bedford Sushi and Grill hosted an "Open House" last Friday, but haven't been able to confirm that they are 100% open for business. Will keep you posted.

• Over in Durham, in the little shopping center at the Intersection of Hwy. 54 & 55, the Treehouse Café has opened in the former location of The Clay Pit. At this point, I can't tell you much more than that - not much information out there on them.

• Also in Durham, there is a new chef at The Federal (Main Street in Durham) and Carpe Durham (a Durham food blog) is reporting favorable feedback on the specials being turned out. Worth a visit.

• Back in December we told you about the restaurant Blue opening up in downtown Raleigh on Davie Steet. Word is that they are now changing their name from Blue to Tuscan Blu. Initial reviews out of the gate are extremely strong.

• Welcome to Moe's! Looks like the menu at Moe's will get an update in about two weeks. Don't worry, you can still get a Joey Bag of Donuts, it is just that the ingredients will change...for the better. The new menu will feature grass-fed and grain-fed beef, pork and chicken, as well as organic and gluten-free products. The chicken will be hormone-free and the steak will be sirloin. Moe's has nine locations in the immediate Triangle area.

• In our "bummer" news of the week, Sammi's La Piazza Ristorante Pizzeria in North Raleigh (Bedford community) has officially closed its doors. Best to owner Gianni Cinelli. And over in Hillsborough, Tupelo's has closed their doors after a 10-year run. But word on the street is that the restaurant was sold and will reopen as something else. No word yet as to what that is.

• In the "that's pretty cool" file this week, I read that Subway is waiving the franchise fee ($15,000) for any honorably discharged veteran who wishes to open a Subway restaurant on a government or military installation. In addition, the franchise fee will be reduced by 50 percent for any veteran opening a Subway restaurant at any non-military or non-government location. That's cool.

• I often get a little frustrated, as I don't think people have an appreciation for the level of cuisine we are able to enjoy here in the Triangle. I'm glad someone in New York agrees with me. So much so, that a handful of restaurants in Durham landed the city on the New York Times list of the 41 places to visit in 2011 (41 places in the WORLD!!!). Pretty impressive and congratulations to the following restaurants that were specifically mentioned in that list: Scratch, Parker & Otis, Rue Cler, Counter Culture Coffee and Revolution. Here's a neat little article about it in The Independent.

• Don't forget that the last week in January is Triangle Restaurant Week. This is a great opportunity to get out and try some places you've never been, but always wanted to go. Great prices and special menus are on tap for the week January 24-30th. Check out the most up-to-date listings here.

• And finally, it is not too early to start thinking about a nice Valentine's dinner. The N&O's Greg Cox has got you covered and has put together a list of "romantic" spots for the big holiday. Check it out here.

Friday Fun Food Facts - January 7, 2011

Welcome to 2011! I trust everyone had an enjoyable holiday season. Let's just say things have been busy in the Triangle restaurant scene these last few weeks, so let's jump right into it...

• Bear Rock Café is making some changes here in the Triangle. First, the Bear Rock Café in University Mall has ended their lease there. That's the bad news. The good news is that they will be re-opening in a matter of weeks over in Durham in the former Rick's Diner location (which moved down the street a few months back) on University Drive behind Sam's & Target.

• Which means there is a vacancy at Chapel Hill's University Mall. And word on the street, albeit not 100% confirmed, is that a Red Bowl Asian Bistro will be moving into that location. Which is interesting in that it is directly across from Spice Street. We'll keep you posted.

• In other Bear Rock news, the Raleigh location on Lake Boone Trail and the Morrisville location at the corner of Cary Parkway and Chapel Hill Road have changed ownership. Bart Carmichael and Arthur Page, who own another Bear Rock Café in Greensboro, have purchased those two stores. Look for new and fresh ideas coming out of those stores, including bakery-fresh desserts! Welcome to the Triangle Bart & Arthur!
  

• The N&O's Sue Stock is reporting that Wake Forest has landed Matt Naugle's first Triangle-area restaurant - Sambuca Chop House at 11216 Capital Blvd., near U.S. 1 and U.S. 1-A. If you frequent Lake Gaston, you'll be familiar with Naugle's other restaurant, the WatersView.
  

• You may remember back in July we told you about the opening of Mangia and Eat on Oberlin Road in the former EVOO spot. Well, if you didn't get by there, too late. After 6 short months, that dual-restaurant concept has closed and a new concept called Bellini is now open there. (And for the bonus points round, here is a list of the most recent tenants in that space - Johnson's Drug Store, The Bulldog, The Raven, Maccini's, Riptide's, EVOO, Mangia Bistro and Eat Kitchen & Bar...and now, Bellini.)
  

• Speaking of revolving doors, we've got an update to last month's news that Giorgio's was closing its doors at the corner of High House and Cary Parkway. Turns out former Blue Cross Blue Shield big dog Bob Greczyn is bringing the extremely popular Mellow Mushroom concept to Cary! Expect an opening toward the end of the 2nd quarter. It will be the Triangle's fourth Mellow Mushroom location.

• The Raleigh blog GoGoRaleigh reported last week that Crabtree Valley Mall will soon be home to a new restaurant called Red Monkey. It looks like it will occupy space on two levels, just to the left of the Belk entrance. Not much else is known about this concept at this time.

• Speaking of Crabtree, the renovations at Kanki Japanese House of Steaks & Sushi are complete. Check out their new bar and sushi area!
  

• The much-anticipated location of Tijuana Flats in Cary has announced that they will open on January 17 and will have a week of "grand opening" events. This location is at the corner of Cary Parkway and Kildaire, in the old Camille's Sidewalk Café location next to Trader Joe's.
  

• RDU's Terminal 2 south concourse will open at the end of this month, on January 23rd to be exact. The dining options that will be opening there include - Five Guys (although they might be delayed - no airport pun intended), Flavours, Jason's Deli, Carolina Vintages wine bar and Starbucks (with the new logo, we presume). Plan your flight schedule accordingly.
  

• The TBJ is reporting that North Raleigh will be getting a new McDonald's. The newest location will be in the Falls Pointe Shopping Center where the Kohl's store is.

• Here are a few more openings and renovations thanks to Sue Stock over at the N&O - Fuego Loco Mexican Buffet has opened at 4614 Capital Blvd. in Raleigh. The Dunkin' Donuts on Wilmington Street is undergoing renovations ('bout time). And if we didn't' have enough donut places, another Dunkin' Donuts has opened at 8401 Capital Blvd. in North Raleigh. And over in Durham, Hibachi Grill & Supreme Buffet has opened in the Oak Creek Shopping Center.
  

• Triangle Town Center's Twisted Fork has put a new twist on their dining experience. They have unveiled a 32-foot salad bar that features 24 pre-made healthy salads as well as 48 fresh items to build your own. A new 40-item menu has also been unveiled. Looks like those New Year's resolutions will be a little easier to keep.
  

• But maybe not. Here's one that is NOT good for those New Year's resolutions. IHOP has brought back their all-you-can-eat pancakes for $4.99 - available now through February 27th. There is just something cruel about the timing of this.
  

• OK, forget what I just told you about IHOP, let's get back to more healthy options. If you're over in Durham, you'll notice something a little different. The former Green Tango, located across Erwin Road from campus, is now Chopped Greens. And to mark their new opening, our friends at Chopped Greens will be offering all their salads and wraps for just $4.99 next Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Be sure to drop in next week! Visit them online here.
  

• In case you missed it. Downtown Raleigh's Duck & Dumpling closed on the last day of 2010. But don't expect that space to sit empty long. Empire Eats restaurant group will open a new concept in that location this spring. While not officially announced yet, it is anticipated that the new concept will have a "south of the border" influence.
  

• For those that traverse 15-501 between Chapel Hill and Fearrington Village / Pittsboro, you'll have to look for a new spot to get your java fix. The little coffee hut Local Latte is all but empty now. It was located in the Cole Park Plaza shopping center near Torero's.
  

• Also over in Chapel Hill on Elliott Road, Café Parvaneh, which had been preparing the unique dishes of Persian (Iranian) cuisine for the past 15 years, has closed their doors.
  

• Sue Stock is also reporting that the OCharley's restaurant is Wake Forest has now closed. This is part of chain-wide closings that last month closed the Garner location. That leaves just the Cary location here in the Triangle.
  

• If you can't get enough of downtown Raleigh's The Mecca, we've got good news for you. They've obtained their liquor license and are now staying open until 11 pm on weeknights, and "late night" on weekends (they used to do this way back when). This also comes with a new late-night appetizer menu.

• With the new year comes new things and that is no exception for The Diner over in Raleigh. Not only have they introduced a new menu, but they've lowered their prices - including a $4.95 burger!

• Margaux's Restaurant and Taylor's Wine Shop, both in North Raleigh, are putting on a three-course dinner featuring the wines of Barnett Vineyards. Winemaker David Tate will attend the Jan. 27 dinner. For $75, you get three courses and samples of six wines. For a reservation, call 847-3069.
  

• Fearrington House has announced the dates in 2011 for their special dinners. These fill up fast, so you'll want to move quickly with the first one coming up on Sunday, January 16th. Each evening begins with a reception at 6, followed by dinner at 7 pm. The cost is $125 per person. Call 542-2121 to make a reservation. See the year's schedule on Andrea Weigl's blog here.
  

• The fourth annual Triangle Restaurant Week is taking place the week of January 24th this year. If you are not familiar with this event, participating restaurants offer special menu offerings and pricing during the entire week. It is a great opportunity to try out places you haven't been to yet. So, squirrel away your dining budget until the last week of the month and have fun! Here is a complete list of participating restaurants and their menus.

• Chick-fil-A is rolling out a new product...in typical Chick-fil-A fashion. Beginning next Monday, if you have a reservation, you'll be one of the first to try their new Spicy Chicken Biscuit. To "reserve" your biscuit, go here.
  

• And finally, with the new year comes nutty calendar happenings - like January 11, 2011 (1/11/11). So to commemorate that, Papa John's has a special offer-a large one-topping pizza for $11 and a second large one-topping for 11 cents more. That's two pizzas for $11.11 that is good for that one day for delivery and carryout customers.