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.

I never knew about Mecca’s breakfast because I was never downtown early in the morning during the week. After noticing the sign about two years ago indicating they were going to be open on Saturdays, I made the trip to try it out, and it surpassed expectations.

When Nicholas John Dombalis opened Mecca in 1930, it was open seven days a week. The current proprietor, Paul Dombalis, stated that it was closed on Sundays before he was born. The restaurant began opening on Saturdays, after a 40 year absence. Might we see more opening hours from the Mecca? Only time will tell.

Mecca isn’t just the oldest joint for breakfast in town, it’s one of the best. The biscuits are nothing short of delicious, and made from scratch. Over the past few years as the breakfast crowd has increased (due in no small part to being open on Saturdays), there have been a few additions to the menu, including hash browns and biscuits and gravy.

If find yourself wishing you could enjoy such a delicious breakfast but not downtown in the wee hours, stop by on Saturday. Breakfast is served 7:30-11:30 Monday through Friday, and 7:30-2:00 on Saturdays.

Bring cash though–they don’t accept credit cards.

13 East Martin Street
(919) 832-5714

Further Reading:

• Become of fan of Mecca Restaurant on Facebook
• Foodstalkers: Mecca
• N&O: The Mecca of Good Sauce

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.

Located at 309 North Dawson Street, this was the former home of the Melrose Knitting Mill, which was a local manufacturer of underwear. You can see some faded outlines of the ‘underwear’ part on the image above.

There are  lots of plans for the outdoor area: a grill, pizza oven, bar, and possibly other water features.

The new venue will be owned and operated by the same person that owns Mosaic Wine Lounge. You can expect some of the same Moroccan/North African style and influences in the establishment shown here, but to be on a more grand and luxurious scale.

At the risk of sounding coy, I can say there are larger plans than I’m outlining here. Because of the tentative nature of planned features for the new establishment, I was asked not share everything on the table, including the name.

The planned opening date is about six months from now, but that’s all subject to change based on various inspections and construction work completion. Because so much effort is concentrated on the outdoor aspect of the place, I’m guessing that there will be a big push to be complete around the time fall sets in.

The spaces above the ground floor will house offices. The plans for the outdoor area were described to me as “resembling the garden of Eden”, and should provide an interesting visual landscape for the folks lucky enough to work upstairs.

Where the future bar will be

Construction crews are working nearly around the clock, including weekends and evenings to get this place off the ground. It’s a welcome sign to see such a project in downtown Raleigh in the current economic climate.

We will continue to bring you information and developments of the new venue.

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.

Here are some of my favorite spots that offer delicious non-meat food. Don’t let the listing of a restaurant here imply they only have great vegetarian food, all offer far more meat options than not.

Remedy Diner

Although this list isn’t any sort of ranking of friendliness toward the vegetarian crowd, Remedy Diner deserves the top spot. No other restaurant has as many options. From delicious vegan buffalo wings, to (fake) sloppy joes, (fake) parmesan chicken sandwiches, to a host of all-day breakfast options, it’s difficult to get tired of the options provided. The prices can’t be beat, there are varying drink and menu specials every day, and the service is second to none. I’m here at least once a week and would be incredibly sad if I didn’t have this option. They have gluten-free and vegan options as well.

You can learn more about the history of the building in a previous post by Raleigh Boy.

137 East Hargett Street

The Rockford

Situated in a nondescript location on Glenwood Avenue, The Rockford is type of place you only discover via word of mouth. There is no sign, no web site, and no local advertisements of any sort. There are rotating vegetarian-friendly entrees and side items offered daily. I recommend the Mission Burrito, it’s the best in town.

320 1/2 Glenwood Avenue

The Borough

In a somewhat quiet part of downtown, the Borough features a lively crowd and diverse selection of vegetarian friendly dishes at fantastic prices. They have great soups and innovative food choices. One of my favorite places to eat. It’s where Sid’s favorite server once worked, as well as the legendary Sneaky Q. The Redbeard is the best veggie burger in town.

317 West Morgan Street

Thaiphoon Bistro

Thaiphoon, like the Rockford, is hidden on Glenwood Avenue amongst the more traditional dining options. What sets this place apart is a diverse menu of ethnic foods, from various types of curry to soups. The atmosphere is great and seating comfortable. Despite being popular on weekends, I’ve never had to wait to find a table (I may just be lucky). Serving menus on DVD and Vinyl covers is a creative touch. If you’ve never been, it’s well worth a trip.

301 Glenwood Avenue

The Player’s Retreat

The Player’s Retreat is the oldest bar in Raleigh. This place has a lot going for it: it has the largest selection of single-malt scotches in the state, probably the largest collection of beer bottles/cans in the state, and has a great menu to boot. The owner, Gus Gusler, has put forth a tremendous effort toward bringing the menu up to par with the slightly more upscale establishments downtown. He invested a lot in a modern and state of the art kitchen, too. The menu offers a wide variety of sandwiches and pastas, as well as entire vegetarian-friendly section. Enjoy a bit of living Raleigh history with a great meal.

105 Oberlin Road

Laziz Biryani Corner

The only Indian Restaurant near the downtown area, Laziz Biryani Corner blends a home-cooked atmosphere with some delicious and affordable options. A hidden gem amongst the typical Hillsborough Street fare, this place shouldn’t be missed if you enjoy Southeast Asian Cuisine.

2316 Hillsborough Street

Sadlack’s Heroes

Being in business for over 30 years, Sadlack’s is without a doubt the oldest bastion of vegetarian-friendly fare downtown. It’s a sandwich joint that frequently features live music, which makes it a great place to hang out with friends on a weekend afternoon. The crowd is unlike any you’ll find in Raleigh. The chips are home made, the sandwiches prepared on great bread … but the food is only a small component of the charm of Sadlack’s. Stop by for lunch some time and experience it for yourself.

2116 Hillsborough Street

Porter’s City Tavern

Carrying on amidst the rubble

Although they’ve had delicious vegetarian options for a long time, they just recently carved out a new menu highlighting the selections. The Blue Cheese Macaroni is worth the trip.

2412 Hillsborough Street

Moonlight Pizza

Moonlight has been my longest running love affair with pizza here in Raleigh, but until now received no love on this blog. In addition to a wide variety of pastas and salads (and a fantastic gnocchi), they feature a diverse array of toppings. Great drink specials too.

615 West Morgan Street

Worth a mention

• Mitch’s Tavern – I’ve heard from more than one source that they have the best vegetarian chili in town.
• The Roast Grill – Yes, the place that serves only hot dogs, baklava, and pound cake. They have a “Ruth Dog”, named after a vegetarian friend of the family. It consists of a hot dog bun with relish, mustard, and onions.
• Spize Cafe – I dined here for the first time recently, and thrilled they decided to be open for dinner hours.
• Village Kabob – This new Afghan restaurant has a delicious vegetarian menu with several items at great prices. I’ve only recently made it here for the first time, but it was absolutely delicious and a welcome new ethnic dining addition.

Some Love for Hillsborough Street

You may have noticed that many of restaurants listed here are located on Hillsborough Street. Although it is mostly coincidence, I did take extra care to include the ones there. Due to the ongoing construction work, business is hurting for these restaurateurs. They need your support. Rush hour delays and parking are issues–but what is a few extra minutes commute time when you can enjoy great food?

By No Means Comprehensive

This list is just some of my favorite places, and certainly doesn’t include all options. What’s your favorite restaurant to enjoy a meal sans meat? I’ll add more suggestions here and maintain this page as an index of veggie-friendly restaurants.

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.

Downstairs view of The Busy Bee Cafe.

Penny and one of her friends enjoying a beer and hanging out.

The Busy Bee offers a simple, affordable and fresh menu!  I learned from one of the wait staff that the ingredients on the menu are local! I was very impressed and delighted. The Chef, Jeremy Clayman, has impressed me with his elegant twist on the simple and affordable menu. One of the most unique items on the menu, that I have tried, is the bruschetta. The bruschetta isn’t like your traditional tomato, basil and mozzarella. Instead, Chef Clayman has come up with a goat cheese, mandarin, and beet bruschetta. It does sound very different, but I must commend the Chef on a wonderful combination of flavors. I am a big bruschetta fan, and this version is very tasty!

Jenny Schade and Julia Swinn having fun at work in The Busy Bee.

Another highlight of this place is the beer selection. Downstairs they have a nice selection of beers on tap from an Avery IPA to a locally brewed Aviator Berliner Weiss. Upstairs you will find a different selection of beers on tap; such as the Foothills Hefenweizen brewed in Winston-Salem, and the French Broad Kölsch brewed in Asheville, North Carolina.

Angled shot looking into the downstairs area.

A view of the upstairs bar located at The Hive.

The upstairs patio, located in The Hive, is definitely the coolest patio in town! Sitting on the patio at night with the crisp air, slight breeze, and glowing lights from the surrounding buildings, makes for the perfect relaxing experience!  On the weekends, The Hive is packed with people dancing to the music and socializing on the patio. Everyone seems to love the atmosphere, great beer selection, and fun service staff.

People dancing to the Dj's music on a Friday night, at The Hive.

Chris Ragland working at The Hive on a busy Friday night.

The employees that I have spoken to seem to love their job at The Busy Bee Cafe and The Hive. The staff is personable, fun and inviting! The co-owner Woody seems like a down to earth guy, and the staff agrees he is a great boss. As someone who works in the service industry myself, I know that a good work environment makes the experience that much better for the guests. I feel very comfortable when I visit The Busy Bee, and I always enjoy conversation with the staff!

A view of the outside patio on a busy Friday night.

All in all, I have to say that The Busy Bee Cafe is a hands down awesome place! From the food and beer, to the atmosphere, to the staff, and the live music scene…it’s just the coolest new place in town. If you haven’t taken the time to stop in, you are missing out!

Rumors reached me early last week of a First Friday of “epic” proportions. I wasn’t sure what that meant, but as all First Fridays (for me, anyway) involve some degree of chaos and art I decided to check it out. Lured out by the promise of perfect weather, the crowd was indeed thicker than I’d ever seen. I met up with the early arrivals of my group at City Market, with all intentions set on visiting ArtSpace. After a couple of glasses of Blue Moon outside of Zydeco, the sun had set and it was time to pull out my camera.

After finishing our opening rounds at Zydeco, we walked back to the corner of Moore Square for the promised street show. The show, put on by Katie Magee and Kaci Torres of Acroentertainment turned out to be quite wonderful, and a great way to start off the evenings festivities.

The acrobatics were impressive, and the performers were greatly aided by their coterie of assistants, all eager to be part of the action.

While watching the show I met Sherman Jenkins (above), a local artist who has gained some notoriety for his restoration of found glass negatives from the late 19^th century. Sherman can frequently be found selling his handmade jewelry at the corner of Fayetteville and Martin Streets.

After the show we finally had our initial crowd assembled, and made our way back across city market to ArtSpace. While there, I tried a cup of Raleigh’s newest beer sensation: Foam Beer (you’re a poser if you let it settle into a liquid).

The crowd was thick, and while much of the art was pretentious there were some artists there who had created some genuine and interesting works.

I particularly liked the works of Keith Norval.

After ArtSpace we made a stop by Lump. With its single artist show, canned beers, and unpretentious attitude Lump made a nice contrast to the chaos of ArtSpace. We arrived right as the bike hordes were peeling out and managed to enjoy a few minutes of relative peace in which to take some photographs.

Chris Coleman, the visiting artist, had some surprisingly interesting works. His animation that was on display was awesome, but sadly photographs wouldn’t do it proper justice.

I told this person here there was a rule that if you wore goggles, you had to have your picture taken. It was pointed out to me that these aren’t, in fact, goggles, but he let me take his picture anyway.

After Lump the party headed up to Glenwood, with designs on FM. We got to FM right as the event was winding down and people were heading to the after party at Five-Star.

I’ve always been pleased with the displays at FM, and I bought a pair of sneakers there last summer that never fail to attract notice.

They were doing body painting at FM. The kid probably wonders if this guy has read his back.

We decided to get a quick burger and drink at Mojoe’s while the rest of the party arrived. The chaos grew, though, and the Sherpas became rebellious. As drinks flowed, checks remained uncashed, and companions remained unarrived, we decided to overwinter before our long trek to The Borough.

In the midst of the confusion I slipped into the kitchen for some pictures of the cooks. Cheep beers were had by all, and finally we were able to set out.

The walk to The Borough was daunting but worth it. Pleasant patio weather, PomBRs, and fresh company made the short stop well worth it.

Jason, at the Borough

Beck

Myque, still alive after his run in with the toilet candy

Some communist vagrant, in desperate need of a haircut and shave.

Five-Star was packed, and the party was hot. Our party quickly apprehended a corner by the bar and began loudly discussing political theory and our hidden love of cigarettes.

At some point, Jager was produced. The night quickly devolved into the chaos of all nights such as this, and the photographs became erratic and smeared, giving the impression the camera was wielded by some booze-infused amateur.

Eric Kaufman, author of the tragic “let’s do shots” idea, surveys the crowd.

A nice couple taking a break from the chaos of downstairs

Sometime well after two the dance party began to break up and the three survivors stumbled up to Snoopy’s for hot dogs and root beer floats. It is here that the photographs ended, when the college kid drama that engulfs all late night Snoopy’s expeditions convinced me it would be best to pack it up.

“Rewind the clock and put the needle on the record, it’s time for a rave!” I was a bit incredulous of the flyer (a rave, in Raleigh, in 2009?), but after nearly a month of failed attempts to find a good Friday night party I figured anything would be better than one more night of bar hopping on Glenwood. Three words to describe the evening I found: Too Much Fun!

The event turned out to be even better than I’d hoped, with a great venue, fantastic music, and a wonderful (and camera friendly) crowd.

Music and visuals at the party were contributed by DJ Steve, DJ Rousseau, DJ Arc, VJ//c, and VJ130xe.

The music focused on old school rave anthems from the mid 80s to the mid 90s and delivered. After one or two (or six) drinks even I found myself stumble-footing around the dance floor – a horror to behold but a definite indication of the DJs’ talents.

Flex was a great venue – lighting and sound, an accessible dance floor, good drink prices, and friendly service – they even gave me free batteries when mine ran out! I also really appreciated the fact that they let you get cash back from the bartender, rather than sticking some ATM machine with a five dollar fee in the corner.

There was a solid crowd, with a lot of people showing up in old school rave styles.

The party didn’t break up until at least 5 am. Nothing bugs me more than just getting into it when the lights come on and the bouncer chases me out. It’s hard to find a club willing to let people finish their party after they shut down the bar so definitely more compliments to Flex.

This was at about 4 am; definitely still going strong.

The man, the myth, the legend – John Morris.

Lovers

Friends

Posing for a picture

More photogenic portraits

Sitting in the dancefloor

Thumbs up

Myque, busted, eating the urinal candy

I’ve never had much of a desire to be at any bar or club during karaoke night. There was one unfortunate incident in which I decided to get some takeout from Cody’s (now Thaiphoon) during such a night, and it was one of the most miserable 15 or so minutes in a restaurant that I can recall. Perhaps it was bad timing, but sitting through it reinforced the notion that I never, ever wanted to be a part of any karaoke night ever again.

About a month ago, my entire perception of it changed. I’ve long been a fan of Two T’s, but it was only recently that I decided to go in on a Thursday night to unwind with some cold beers and then discover what would completely reverse my opinion on the idea of ordinary folks singing the classics.

above image credit: Adrienne Taylor

It’s difficult to put my finger on exactly what about Two T’s changed my opinion. The tracks were a mix of old school hits from the 60s and 70s, contemporary R&B, a Classic Rock track or two, and I’ve even heard a oldschool country song. You could tell that the folks singing were passionate about it, and not simply lured behind the mic by one too many drinks.

Located across from Landmark Tavern on Hargett Street, Two T’s has had karaoke night for two years now. I really wish I had discovered it sooner. The DJ typically alternates between a normal track played via CD and a version with no vocals. It provides nice changeup of allowing the person performing to have the floor and dance to it while still having the familiar tunes played that allow for the entire floor to fill with everyone dancing in unison. Even with two left feet, I still couldn’t resist the urge to join the crowd, move with the beat, and dance as if no one was watching.

DJ Silk has been selecting the tracks as long as Two T’s has had karaoke night

If Two T’s isn’t on your short list of watering holes to check out for unwinding after work or as a hangout spot on weekends, I recommend giving it a try. The crowd is always friendly, bartenders are great and attentive, and there is always good music playing. It’s a most welcome change of pace when you’ve grown tired of the same old bars week after week.

While you certainly won’t catch me singing a track by Sade or Kool and the Gang here, chances are you can catch me here on one or two Thursdays a month.

What other area locations have a good karaoke night?

Tucked away in a quiet corner of Oakwood lies a restaurant specializing in all the S’s: soups, salads, sandwiches, and sweets. Continuing on the “Side” theme, the menu is broken down according to what type of “Side” you’d like: “A Bit on the Warm Side”, “The Green Side”, “The Lighter Side”, “Our Best Side”, and “Side Kicks”.

Side Street Restaurant is a sole proprietership run by Mary Lu Wooten, although both of her brothers also work there. She bought the place in the summer of 1979, which means that this year will mark the 30th year in operation. Previously named the Corner Cupboard, the name was changed to Side Street by the previous owner prior to her taking over. When she first began running the restaurant, there were only 4 or 5 places to eat in the downtown area, including the Capital Room in the now gone Hudson Belk on Fayetteville Street.

According to the official web site, the building once served as a grocery, grill, laundry, and a church. The earliest tax records of the building date to 1916, but there is evidence that it was built around the turn of the century. Initially, the restaurant only occupied the space seen in the image above. As business grew over the years, she expanded to the neighboring spaces (which have seperate addresses) until eventually it occupied the entire building.

The original menu from 1979

In addition to serving as a restaurant during lunches and dinners, Side Street also offers catering for cocktail parties, corporate events, weddings, and other social events. You can also have a private party here when the restaurant isn’t normally open for business (all day Sunday as well as Monday and Saturday evenings).

A group of friends celebrating a local holiday gather outside Side Street in 1996. Notice the little canine habitue (left) mentioned in a comment below.

Another group of friends celebrating the same local holiday in 1991. This photo was taken in the same dining room shown above

When dropping in to grab a bite to eat shortly before closing time (9:00PM) I was the only customer; but I didn’t feel awkward or out of place. Mary Lu described Side Street as “More of a home than a business”, and I can see why. In addition to the charm of a locally-owned and operated restaurant that’s been in the neighborhood for several decades, the interior décor included several photographs and paintings of the neighborhood from years past. I was also surprised at the depth of the menu and all of the “S” options provided. I opted for a long time favorite: a toasted cheese sandwich with a cup of tomato dill soup (and it was delicious).

Located about a block away from the Governor’s Mansion, it’s a short trip for lunch if you work downtown, and a quick trip for dinner if you live downtown. Visit Mary Lu sometime and experience one of the many “sides” this place has to offer. Be sure to bring cash though–Side Street doesn’t accept debit/credit cards.

Menu 1
Menu 2
Menu 3
Beverages

225 North Bloodworth Street
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-828-4927

Although my ‘bar hopping’ days are long gone, I do enjoy going out on occasion for drinks with friends to any of downtown Raleigh’s ‘public houses.’ One of my favorites is the Landmark Tavern on Hargett St. This quintessential neighborhood bar has been open for little more than a year now, yet it has already achieved, well, landmark status. The low-lit interior is cozy and well appointed with wood paneling, stained glass panels, antique-style light fixtures and comfy booths. It is a very inviting space. There’s even a private outdoor beer garden.

above Holga image credit: Ben Spiker

But one of the main attractions of the Landmark is the bar itself. Owners Brendan and Linda O’Reilly brought in and restored the historic bar, originally located in an establishment in Hooversville, Pa. When the massive quarter-sawn oak bar was being reassembled, they discovered an old black and white photograph from 1911 that depicts it in its original location. In the photo you can see patrons decked out in derby hats and coats and ties. Behind the bar the barmen pose in their long white aprons. In those days women were not allowed in drinking establishments. As public restrooms were scarce then, the face of the bar was equipped with a certain floor-level convenience intended to accommodate the all male clientele. Umm…you’ll have to ask one of the present-day bartenders to explain it to you.

Now for a little Raleigh history.  The 3-story brick building the Landmark is located in is a Hargett St landmark itself. Long associated with Raleigh’s once thriving early 20th century African-American business district, it has had many tenants over the years. One Raleigh property map indicates that the building has occupied this spot as early as 1881. It first appears on the Sanborn Insurance maps in 1884, and by 1888 the Oak City Manufacturing Co. —a wholesale clothier employing ’60 hands’— occupied the building. During the 1890s the street level floor was divided into separate storefronts. The Landmark space was occupied over the next few years variously by a grocery, printing establishment and even briefly as a venue for ‘moving pictures’ in 1910. As early as 1903 the upper floors housed the Grand United Order of Odd Fellows, a black fraternal organization, and within 10 years black professionals and businessmen occupied the entire building. From 1911 through the 1930s Mallette’s drug store operated out of the Landmark Tavern space. It was supplanted by the Community Drug Store in the 1940s and 1950s. Later the space was home to the Hargett Street Billiard Parlor. As Raleigh’s ‘black main street’ faded into history in the early 1960s, the lodge hall was abandoned and the black professionals gradually vacated the building. Although Capitol Barber Shop, once known as Capital City Barber Shop, has remained steadfast in its location at 115 E. Hargett since 1932, during the waning years of the 20th century the Landmark space at 117 was often empty.

above image credit: Raleigh Boy

In this century Empire Properties has breathed new life into the old building and nowadays an art gallery, various small businesses, the old mainstay, Capital City Barber Shop, and the new kid on the block, the Landmark Tavern, are all thriving. No matter if you drop in after work on a weekday, during peak hours on weekend nights, or on a sleepy Sunday afternoon, the friendly bartenders will greet you and serve you up a remedy for whatever ails you. Oh yeah, PBR is only $2.50 for an imperial pint. I’ll see ya at the Landmark—and be sure to ask the bartender for a look at the photograph behind the bar.

above Holga image credit: Ben Spiker

Thanks to Linda and Brendan O’Reilly, and bartenders Pete, Gary, Shelby, Sandra, Ricky and Chico for supplying me with information for this article.

In the past week I’ve found that I’ve recommended my favorite Indian restaurant to at the least 10 separate people, so I figured that the next time I stopped by for dinner I’d bring my camera and spend some time talking to the staff.

From left to right: Salman, Abdul, Aisha, Sultana, and Mariam (note the 102 Sanitation Grade on the wall)

Laziz Biryani Corner has been in business for around a year or so. It’s a complete family-run operation out of the back corner of GoPaks Bazaar on Hillsborough St., next to I Love NY Pizza. Yes, it is a restaurant run out of a convenience store, but the meals you get are always of the greatest quality and taste as well as at a fantastic price.

When asked about his family-operated restaurant, Salman had this to say:

When a family runs a business, of course they are going to put their heart and soul in to it–but what makes it different here is that my mom cooks it. You can tell the difference between home made, and commerically prepared meals.  Even in the local India/Pakistan community, everyone knows her for her cooking and the meals she prepared other restaurants.

What initially impressed me with Laziz Biryani Corner was the vegetarian selection–but they have full and diverse menus that will satisfy carnivores as well. Additionally, every day they offer special combo platters with two meal options, basmati rice, naan, and a salad for between 6 and 7 dollars (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian).

Non-Vegetarian Menu
Vegetarian Menu
Side Dishes

You can pay several times the price of the entreés here at another South Asian restaurant, but you’re paying for the the experience. If you’re looking for great tasting Indian/Pakistani food without the fluff–give this place a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

They also offer full service catering in addition to serving lunch and dinner. You can contact them through the information below:

Laziz Biryani Corner

2316-100 Hillsborough St.

919-821-7991

lazizbiryanicorner@gmail.com

(Pictured above is one of the daily combo platters that are featured)