It was the first vegetarian restaurant in Raleigh, the first to go smoke-free, the first to offer Sunday brunch and the first, original owner Arthur Gordon says, to serve avocado. Quite the brag sheet already, but Irregardless is adding another major feather to its cap: It’s turning 50.
Turning back to its humble roots, Gordon—who graduated from UNC with philosophy and chemistry degrees—wanted to go to culinary school, but got rejected for lack of kitchen experience. So, naturally, he did what anyone would do. He opened a restaurant—“irregardless” of his culinary training.
His opening MO was simple: “Spend less than you take in, and treat people the way you want to be treated,” he says, emphasizing “whether I know your name or not, I’m still cooking for you out of love.”
Photo by Juli Leonard
That ethos kept the restaurant going until “the big guy” gave Gordon a sign his time at the helm was up (read: quadruple bypass surgery). In early 2020, he passed the proverbial torch to Trophy Brewing’s David Meeker and former Players Retreat manager Lee Robinson.
“I’m really excited about keeping this place in the community for as long as possible,” says Robinson. “This place is special, and I’m happy to be the steward.”
Today, a multitude of menu ops invite pescatarians and carnivores alike—there’s even real bacon now for brunch! But the menu maintains a commitment to its humble veggie roots by leaning 50% vegetarian—and enticing even the most dedicated meat-eaters.
Also going strong is Irregardless’ live music five nights a week, through which Robinson estimates they have collectively pumped a cool $3.5 mill into the local music scene since the restaurant’s inception (!).
So how do you fete 50 years of an iconic community institution? Pop some bottles, natch. And Irregardless is doing just that at its massive February celebration, followed by a year of themed dinners feat. classics from old menus for each decade they’ve been open. Here’s to 50 more! irregardless.com
Gotta hankering for huevos? Spice up your weekend brunch with these spins.
Mexican for breakfast? Say less. Trade your classic eggs and toast for huevos rancheros to kick-start your day with a fiesta of flavor—and perhaps your mimosa for a marg if you’re really feeling spicy! For those unfamiliar, the Mexican breakfast/brunch staple packs a punch with a base of tortillas topped with zesty ingredients like eggs, salsa, avocado, refried beans and more. A relatively hard-to-find standout—here’s where to nosh on our fave spins around town.
La Santa Arrrrrriba! Transport yourself to Guadalajara with this bona fide take feat. simple ingredients (think chorizo, jalapenos, rice and beans) and bangin’ flavor.lasantanc.com
a’Verde Dubbed “Grounds for Divorce Huevos” and starring a pool of both red and green salsa, this one’s sure to leave you shell-shocked. averdecary.com
A Place at the Table Creamy, citrusy, spicy and fresh combine in this classic mouthwatering combo starring a special lime crema you’re gonna want extra of. *Lime* me up! tableraleigh.org
Irregardless Cafe ~Irregardless~ of your brunch cravings, this loaded dish—amped up with tomatillo salsa, sour cream, queso fresco and pickled onions—is sure to satisfy with a burst of flavor in every bite. irregardless.com
Since the holidays are more about spending time with the fam (um, and watching football!) and less about spending hours defrosting turkey and cooking up casseroles in the kitchen, why not let one of Raleigh’s fab restaurants do the cooking for you this Thanksgiving? Here are a few local sup spots around town to find holiday fare for family feasting without the hassle. … Just be sure to book a rez. Feast mode: activated.
Think there’s nowhere to eat lunch in DTR? Think again. There are 100+ places to get your midday grub on in Downtown right now. Here, your go-to guide for lunch Downtown right now, divided up by district. Dig in!
The Roast Grill “Good friends, good dogs, good times” are on order at this famed hole-in-the-wall 13-seat Raleigh staple “burnin’ ’em for you” since 1940. 7 S. West St.
Taverna Agora – RM Best Restaurants 2022 Specialty cocktails and authentic Greek wines complement traditional Greek dishes in the rustic old-world ambiance inside—or alfresco on the open-air rooftop patio. 326 Hillsborough St.
Smoky Hollow
The Cardinal Bar– RM Best Bars 2021 “Spirits & everybody” is the name of the game at Jason Howard’s (think The Atlantic Lounge, Pink Boot) West Street drinking den and hot dog haven. The Cardinal’s infused liquor makes for some of the best—and cheapest—shots in town. Chase them with one of the lowkey bar’s famous beer-braised hot dogs, which are also available as veggie dogs. 713 N. West St.
Dose Elixir Bar Whether you just namaste’d a Dose class or you’re passing through the Hollow, grab your daily “dose” at Dose Yoga’s in-house smoothie bar concept and walk-up window to elevate your mood and stay balanced. Pick your potion, from adaptogenic and plant-based protein smoothies, smoothie bowls and wellness lattes—positive side effects, guaranteed. 415 N. Harrington St.
Gringo A Go Go With its playful vibe, plant-filled patio and housemade margs, this sup spot has been sating local Mexican-food lovers (including vegans!) since 2014. 100 N. Person St.
(Ish) Delicatessen Not quite Jewish, a little Italian and maybe Southern, this sandwich shop boasts “weird sandwiches from weird people” for breakfast and lunch. 702 N. Person St.
The Station at Person Street – RM Top Bloody Pick Nestled in a renovated Amoco gas station, this chill neighborhood hangout offers spacious indoor and outdoor seating that’s perfect for noshing on creative spins on bar food classics and craft brews. 701 N. Person St.
Big Ed’s City Market – RM Top Business Breakfast Pick Having called City Market home since 1989, Big Ed’s continues to serve up some of the best in Southern cooking in town seven days a week for breakfast, brunch and lunch. 220 Wolfe St.
The Bridge DTR For “bloody good” British food, international friendship and football (OK, soccer) visit London Bridge. Across-the-pond classics include rocket salad, fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and a full English breakfast. 110 E. Hargett St.
Gravy Ask any Italian-American what “gravy” is, and they’ll tell you it’s the pasta sauce their moms and grandmas cooked fresh nightly. So, naturally, at Gravy, they prepare their own each day—among a host of delish Italian-American selects. 135 S. Wilmington St.
Sitti Named for the most beloved Lebanese figure, the grandmother (sitti), this DTR sup spot by restaurateur Greg Hatem (with Neomonde owners, the Saleh family) honors his Lebanese heritage with delish authentic dishes and spirits, and an inviting atmosphere. 137 S. Wilmington St.
Transfer Co. Food Hall (see individual listings herein) Located in the historic Carolina Coach Garage and Shop, this hip food hall houses local seafood, burritos, bagels, housemade meats and pastas, burgers, Asian fare, and more—plus a bar. 500 E. Davie St., 984.232.8122, transfercofoodhall.com
Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria Owner Mario Longo has been serving authentic old-world Italian and NY-style pizza and traditional pastas for 30+ years overlooking City Market. Pro tip: Park it on the patio. 331 Blake St.; 4035 Lake Boone Trail
Clyde Cooper’s BBQ Since 1938, Clyde’s has been a fave for its award-winning barbecue (with three styles to choose from to boot!), succulent beef brisket and juicy chicken—NTM the sides! 327 S. Wilmington St.
Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar Never give up! Named for famed NC State coach Jim Valvano, upscale Italian fare is served alongside casual ops like pizzas and salads. 420 Fayetteville St.
lucettegrace Start your day at this contemporary patisserie with croissants and coffee; escape midday with the box lunch (your choice of sandwich, salad or soup, and a treat) or reward yourself post-work with those legendary macarons. 235 S. Salisbury St.
Manhattan Cafe Grilled cheese is for grown-ups! … And lunch is a vibe at this super-fresh local cafe by three brothers serving brekkie and lunch since 2009. 320 S. Wilmington St.
The Raleigh Times – RM Best Bars 2021; RM Top Bloody Pick Located in the home of the 100-year-old building that housed the former The Raleigh Times newspaper, this downtown staple now encompasses almost an entire city block (with a rooftop patio to boot), plus a generous selection of craft beers and eats. 14 E. Hargett St.
Sono Raleigh Let the good times roll at this sexy-chic-but-approachable vibrant sushi resto serving up world-class rolls (not to mention ramen and other Japanese faves), with a huge cocktail and sake selection to boot. 319 Fayetteville St., Ste. 101
Buena Papa Fry Bar @ Morgan Street Food Hall Fries before guys—and everything else. Buena Papa’s loaded fries (topped with everything from Colombian refried beans and fried pork belly to meatballs and tomato sauce to grilled chicken and tzatziki) are truly all you need in life. 9411 W. Morgan St., Ste. 104
Irregardless Café Treasured by carnivores and omnivores alike, this classic Raleigh venue is known for its global cuisine, as well as its flavorful and inventive vegan and vegetarian dishes. Come back at night for a meal to a backdrop of live music. 901 W. Morgan St.
Morgan Street Food Hall(see individual listings herein) An oasis for some of Raleigh’s best food and drink ops, this new-age food hall serves up everything from wood-fired pizza, tacos and burgers to lobster rolls, ice cream and more—not to mention cocktails at its indoor/outdoor bar. 411 W. Morgan St.
Parkside “Parked” at the entrance to the Warehouse District, Parkside is situated in a building that’s served up Southern hospitality for over 100 years. Take a seat at the reclaimed barnwood bar for chef-inspired dishes and 25-plus beers on tap. 301 W. Martin St.
The Pit Continuing NC’s barbecue legacy, The Pit doles authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue (think chopped barbecue pork and beef brisket). Opt for the warm-hued interior or the patio with a front seat to the hustle and bustle of downtown. 328 W. Davie St.
A Place at the Table – RM Top Business Breakfast Pick Having quickly gained local love and national acclaim, Raleigh’s first pay-what-you can cafe offers breakfast ops like quiche and waffles, and such lunch classics as salads, sandwiches and paninis. 300 W. Hargett St.
Sam Jones BBQ Prominent NC pitmaster Sam Jones brings his family’s signature Eastern North Carolina chopped whole-hog Q to Raleigh at Sam Jones BBQ, where trays and sandos are best served with the Skylight Inn-style cornbread. 502 W. Lenoir St.
Tuscan Blu Ciao, bella. At this authentic Italian resto, classic Tuscany-inspired pasta, meat dishes, and daily specials await—either to dine in or enjoy alfresco on the patio. 327 W. Davie St.
Whiskey Kitchen– RM Best Bars 2021; RM Top Brunch Pick Exposed bricks, lofty ceilings, garage door-style edifice, light-strung large patio and a communal vibe serve as the setting for this whiskey haven—housing hundreds of top-notch whiskies, with a full bar program and Southern-inspired plates for pairing to boot. 201 W. Martin St.
DeMo’s Pizzeria & Deli Um, you’re def on a knead-to-know basis when it comes to this local pizzeria and deli dishing homemade eats with fresh local ingredients that’ll steal another lil slice of your heart with every, well, slice (or salad, or sub…). Insider tip: Don’t sleep on the delivery service. 222 Glenwood Ave.
Hibernian Irish Pub Sláinte! Irish eyes are smiling indeed at this longtime two-story Glenwood South staple, famed for its Irish social club feel, beer and liquor selection, wraparound rooftop patio (with bar), and, of course, delish Irish dishes. 311 Glenwood Ave.
La Santa It doesn’t get more authentic Mexican than a family-owned resto serving up fare using the owner’s mother’s recipes from Guadalajara—think handmade tortillas, bolillo and chicken enchiladas—best served with mezcal cocktails and margs. 222 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 107
MoJoe’s Burger Joint With a dozen-ish different styles, MoJoe’s signature award-winning handpressed burgers are 100% Sterling Silver Choice beef and 100% delicious. Add fries, famous MoJoe’s sauce and a brew (or a signature shake) for the full experience. 620 Glenwood Ave.
My Way Tavern – RM Best Bars 2021 With a Cheers-esque vibe and TVs on every wall, this neighborhood tavern is a great spot to catch the game over cocktails and brews—and all the food you need to keep your game day fueled. 522 St. Mary’s St.
Sushi Blues An affordable spot to get a wide selection of fresh sushi and sashimi in a casual, sleek environment, Sushi Blues is known for its BOGO rolls (try the Wolfpack) and half-price wine bottles on Sundays and Wednesdays. 301 Glenwood Ave.
Tobacco Road Sports Cafe & Brewery – RM Best Bars 2021 Born out of owners Amra brothers’ vision for combining good food and sports-watching, TR is the quintessential spot for catching the game over world-class beers, cocktails and fresh locally sourced fare. 505 W. Jones St.
A new one-stop shop is opening in Raleigh’s Mordecai neighborhood from a local restaurant owner.
There are a lot of different meanings of the word “bodega.” For a New Yorker, it means a convenience store on the corner filled with everything from snacks and beverages to toilet paper and laundry detergent—plus notoriously good breakfast sandwiches prepared by the cashier (BEC, please!). For the Latina community, instead of breakfast sandwiches there’s juicy birria tacos. And for Spaniards, a bodega (which translates to “wine shop”) is a spot where you can enjoy a glass of vino and some tapas.
At the new Brookside Bodega in the Shoppes at Brookside, all three of these meanings collide. A project by Irregardless Cafe owner Lee Robinson and his partners Michelle Robinson, Darrell Brown and Jacob Paramo (fun fact: This is Brown and Paramo’s first experience with ownership!), Brookside Bodega will replace the Falafel & Co. location, which also once housed the popular Brookside Market & Pizza.
“[My partners and I] all come from these very different spots, but we all had these same kinds of markets in our neighborhoods,” says Robinson. “The term bodega is fluid.”
Robinson adds that the Brookside Bodega menu will lean more toward New York-style bodega food—think affordable fare like chopped cheese, birria tacos, and finger foods like buffalo cauliflower and avocado toast—plus a rotating cast of entrees. And, of course, a breakfast sandwich will be available all day. Like at Irregardless, a majority of the menu will also be vegetarian-friendly.
“The goal is to be an affordable spot that everyone in that neighborhood—from the $1.5 million homes to the project four blocks away—everyone’s gonna wanna come and hang out,” says Robinson. It’s also his hope that folks will “come in for one but walk out with three,” meaning if you stop in for a beer and/or lunch, you’ll leave with a bottle of wine or a homemade takeout meal to enjoy for dinner later.
On the market side, Brookside Bodega will carry “the 50 most common things you’d expect a convenience store to have”—aka eggs, dairy, toilet paper… plus lots of candy and ice cream for the kiddos at the elementary school down the street. Toilet paper, breakfast sandwiches and wine all under one roof? What more could you want (?!). @brooksidebodega
