There's a lot to like about Blue Mango, which just opened on Glenwood South. In focusing my reviews on new restaurants, I've seen a lot of places open up, with varying degrees of success. Blue Mango has done a really superb job. Everything about the restaurant is quality; the interior design, the service, and the food. The other restaurants that come to mind that had it … [Read more...] about Blue MANGO
Small Bites
Weinberg’s Deli
A few years ago, the New York Times ran an article that observed the decline of the delicatessen. At that time, there was no New York-style deli in Raleigh. I was pleased to hear that Weinberg's Deli was going to change that. I was even more pleased to hear that Neil Horwitz would be consulting on the restaurant. Horwitz's Deli holds fond memories for me. My parents took … [Read more...] about Weinberg’s Deli
Mandolin
Mandolin Restaurant occupies a place that is home to some old Raleigh history. But, in recent times the restaurants that have operated there have quickly become history. While Red Dragon has continued to thrive next door, EVOO and the other incarnations of 2519 Fairview Road have opened and then quietly disappeared. Raleigh native Sean Fowler hopes to change all that with … [Read more...] about Mandolin
Calavera
My experience at Calavera was extremely good. Tucked away on the corner of Blount and Davie, Calavera is on the edge of the business section of downtown. The downstairs dining and bar area is cozy. I tried a number of cocktails. The mojito and pisco sour were fantastic, very flavorful and more than sufficiently strong. The service was good. The bartender was … [Read more...] about Calavera
Beasley’s Chicken and Honey
My first impression of Beasley's Chicken and Honey is very good. I was a fan of Ashley Christensen at Vin and, of course, personally wish her the best with the opening of her newest restaurant, but I do have to admit being just a touch cynical about the amount of buzz that Beasley has received. I had to go and check it out personally. Beasley’s has some similarities to … [Read more...] about Beasley’s Chicken and Honey