Mecca Restaurant is known to many locals as the quintessential lunch spot and the oldest family-run restaurant in Raleigh (and probably in NC). I’m guessing there are many like me, though, that didn’t know until recently (or at all) that they also serve breakfast.

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Nearly two years ago I asked: “What’s the future of this building?“. Although readers expressed interest and offered some information, the question couldn’t be clearly answered. Now, I can tell you what the future is: a nightclub/restaurant the likes of which Raleigh has yet to see on the ground level, and office space on the upper levels.
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Part of the new vegetarian menu at Porter's

I swore off meat several years ago. I don’t remember the date or even the season. I just stopped one day without any deliberation. As a former meatatarian who couldn’t enjoy a meal without a substantial amount of protein, I had to adapt quickly. Having to explain the rationale for this life decision to my carnivorous comrades is one I find myself answering on a regular basis. I usually mumble something about a family history of heart problems (completely true) and leave it at that. I prefer not getting in philosophical debates about what is moral and what isn’t.

Of course, I’m not here to talk about the personal decision. I’m going to talk about some of the restaurants downtown that make an extra effort for those who like to eat a meal or two without meat.

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Looking through the front entrance window.

My first visit to The Busy Bee Cafe was just a couple weeks after its opening in April of this year, and I instantly fell in love! When I first walked into the newly renovated building I was instantly impressed with the trendy, rustic decor. I sat at the downstairs bar and ate a blue cheese burger and drank a glass of Malbec red wine, which where both fantastic. I have since been back at least once a week, and I have thoroughly enjoyed every visit.

View from Wilmington Street.

The Busy Bee Cafe, located at 225 Wilmington Street, opens bright and early at 6am Monday through Friday and 7am Saturday and Sunday. They are open early for the downtown workers to stop in, and start their day with a fresh cup of coffee and breakfast bites. By 11 am Busy Bee begins it’s full menu and service, which  is available until closing at 2am. On Friday and Saturday nights The Hive, the upstairs bar and patio, becomes a very trendy live music scene. The restaurant seems to suit everyone’s agenda from open to close.

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