Share this Post
Saif Rahman and Patrick Shanahan’s new restaurant set to bow early next year.
American fare is about to take on a whole new meaning at Saif Rahman and Patrick Shanahan’s new restaurant at The Exchange Raleigh, bowing early next year. Dubbed Peregrine for the migratory peregrine falcon, the New American eatery is also a nod to Rahman’s own “wandering story,” tracing back to his Bangladeshi roots, through his time spent living in New York City, and up to his now home in NC.
Taking inspiration from his experiences and the many cultures, ingredients and traditions that define present-day U.S., the menu will not only encompass his own journey, but an American story. Think signature dishes like a fragrant fish curry, a traditional Bengali dish Rahman will modernize with French techniques; and crispy lentil fritters, or Piyagi—a nostalgic recreation of the street-food snack Rahman’s grandfather made for him during Ramadan.
“America is such a melting pot,” notes the NCRLA 2021 Chef of the Year, who previously served as executive chef of Vidrio. “The food we’re going to serve is going to be pulled from around the world—I don’t want to be tied to one type of cuisine.” Essentially, ingredients locally and ideas globally, he adds.
That inspired exploration of the chef’s culinary journey will also be mirrored in the concept’s beverage menu and ambiance. “Peregrine has such an emphasis on Saif and his story and his cooking,” emphasizes business partner Shanahan—“and we really want people to see that and be a part of that.”
For his own part, artist/filmmaker and Watts & Ward co-owner Shanahan partnered with Mauer Architecture to design the 4,000-square-foot space. “They’re the first people I’ve ever met professionally who actually trust me and my vision,” he muses. As part of that conceptualization, the interior will incorporate a juxtaposition of ancient and modern materials—like clay, Moroccan plaster, stonework and black steel—and likewise mirroring Rahman’s menu.
And in line with The Exchange’s already bold features, three massive arches serve as focal points, with the above-bar middle arch creating a sort of chef’s table that will allow bar patrons to watch Rahman at work in the kitchen.
“[Dewitt] keeps saying they want this to set the tone for the future of hospitality and thoughtful and mindful cuisine and design,” says Shanahan of the development’s flagship restaurant. “Finally developers are considering that what they’re making isn’t just a structure for commerce, it’s actually a structure that is a piece of art. And I feel like that’s why we’ve really felt this is the right place.”
It’s a project that’s felt “right place, right time” from the jump. “We were both seeking something and just happened to find each other at the right time,” recalls Shanahan of his serendipitous partnership with Rahman. “We have a very special friendship. I wish I would’ve met him 10 years ago, but I’m glad we met now for this project—and I’m sure it’ll be the first of many to come.” peregrineraleigh.com
Related Articles
Share this Post