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.
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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.

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above Holga image credit: Ben Spiker

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 E. Hargett Street.

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.

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