Walk Up This Way

Don’t call it a comeback. … Once upon a time, fast-food behemoth McD’s dished that now-billions-served burger at a walk-up window—a concept popular in the halcyon days of the ’40s and ’50s. But now… it’s not so nostalgic. The resurgence of the old-school walk-up window is once again a thing (some incited by pivots, natch)—and one we see playing out around town. Here are 5 worth stepping up to.

Dose Elixir Bar 

In uplifting news, helping us stay grounded is Dose Yoga’s just-bowed fruitful in-house smoothie bar concept—and its brand-new walk-up window in the uber-hip Smoky Hollow development. So whether you namaste’d a Dose class or you’re just passing through with your pup or pals, you can grab your daily “dose” of adaptogenic and plant-based protein ops to elevate mood or stay balanced. Positive side effects, guaranteed. doseyogaraleigh.com 

Our rec: Pick your potion from smoothies, smoothie bowls and wellness lattes.

Videri

Who says you can’t have chocolate for breakfast?! Wake up and cocoa to this beloved DTR bean-to-bar chocolate factory. The old-fashioned sweet spot’s walk-up window fits right in with the brick exterior, vintage appearance and goodies. Treat yo’self to a cuppa joe, some handcrafted chocolate, a creamy hot cocoa or a scoop of soft-serve ice cream during your DTR stroll—or as a midafternoon pick-me-up. Now that’s pretty sweet. viderichocolatefactory.com

Our rec: BYO wine and cozy up on the charming light-strung patio.

Oakwood Pizza Box

If you’re on a knead to know basis, get a slice of the action at local fave Oakwood Pizza Box, a casual pizzeria known for its creative toppings and convenient walk-up window (regulars know to grab a pie—in traditional or square size—before heading next door to neighbor Willco for some potables-and-pizza action). Or swing by for a lunch slice when you hit that midday slump—because ’za always makes everything better.
oakwoodpizzabox.com

Our rec: Keep it simple with a slice of pepperoni pizza and a Mexican coke.

Lawrence Barbecue

To all the grills we’ve loved before… If you like pig butts and you cannot lie, head to Boxyard for Lawrence Barbecue’s bangin’ brisket, ribs, pulled pork, oysters and chicken—all smoked on-site—plus all the fixins’ of course! Snag all those smoky and savory flavors via the walk-up window; then chow down at a picnic table or back at home (dealer’s choice!). But you’ll want to get the whole crew in on this one—after all, BBQ is best enjoyed family-style. lawrencebarbecue.com

Our rec:The brisket sando with a side of the three-cheese mac

Bittersweet

A bittersweet symphony indeed, this chic one-stop-shop for coffee, cocktails and desserts also houses its own convenient walk-up window. Satisfy your sweet tooth with an ice cream sundae, or perk up with an afternoon espresso (we won’t tell if you add some liquor to it…). Seasonal specialties keep things interesting, while specials like Thursday Bubbles and Cake and Sunday-Funday Pie make a night out a piece of cake.
bittersweetraleigh.com

Our rec: A slice of the derby pie pairs perfectly with a boozy latte.