Poole’s Downtown Diner
426 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC, 27601
Poole’s Downtown Diner Menu
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Address :
426 S McDowell St
Raleigh, NC, 27601 - Phone (919) 832-4477
- Website https://www.ac-restaurants.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :5:00 pm - 12:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : No
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dinner
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : No
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Hipster
Noise Level : Loud
Alcohol : Full Bar
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : Free
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
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Autumn S.
I often eat late so I was so happy to see this place open past 10 on a recent trip to NC. And I was especially happy to taste the food and learn it was great as well. It is true-the mac and cheese is yummy with a great 'browned' crust. I also enjoyed a lobster salad and the cocktails as well. It is a little strange to walk around others tables to view the menus on the chalkboards hanging up around the restaurant, but it does help you choose your meal faster! I won't bore you with foodie details but leave you with this thought. Poole's was so good I drove back 20 minutes out of my way the next morning for brunch. The puffy, cake-like pancake my husband ordered had was so delicious, I polished off my omlette (which was loaded with fresh avocado-I hate when restaurants skimp on avocado or give you unripe slices) and finished the pancake off no sweat as well. Service was excellent and very friendly as well. I will be back my next trip to NC!
(4)Duke C.
I have limited things to say about Poole's since I only ducked in there to get out of the rain and have a drink while I was waiting. I love the setup of the place and the food looked delish. I did notice that there was a row of tables right in front of the bathroom doors. I definitely would not want to get seated there.
(3)Christina G.
This is tough -- I think it has the elements to be a 4- or 5-star phenom, but it just didn't all fall into place last night. We arrived around 10 pm for dinner; they get praise just for serving until midnight... especially considering I'd first tried dropping in two restaurants that both closed at 6 = downtown Raleigh fail. I love the look of it -- sexy red glow in a candlelit space, horseshoe-shaped bar seating, dark furniture, chalkboard-penned menus. No one greeted us when we arrived as the hostess had already left for the evening and I guess the bartenders were busy. So we just came in and sat ourselves at the bar. We were promptly asked for our drink order and then took turns using the restroom (we'd been in a 3-hour lecture just prior!). By the way, the bathrooms are amazing. Double-door entry for extra privacy and the ladies' is filled with essentials and then some -- bobby pins, hairspray, flossers, tampons. Love the extra touch! When we were both back at the bar and hadn't been served menus, it dawned on us that maybe we were supposed to order off the chalkboard menu. A little awkward since the apps are placed toward the front of the resto and a different chalkboard houses the entrees further back. And it would have been nice to have been asked "Have you dined with us before? Well, just take a look at the boards behind you to see what's available tonight." I guess we just had them fooled looking like a pair of hip Raleigh regulars! Service after that was good though, and the staff even all looked up to say goodbye to folks as they made their departure. Okay, the good: Locally sourced foods Inspired menu items Prices under 20 Mac n cheeeeeese The bad: Pork carnitas were bland bland bland! Phil's lamb sausage dish was as small a portion as our appetizer -- but cost $19. I really want to love it and I'm sure I'll be back, hopefully for brunch sometime too. But I really hope to be more wow'ed by the food than by the bathrooms!
(3)Nick H.
Food options on a Sunday morning in most downtown areas are pretty minimal. Knowing little of Raleigh, I figured I would be completely out of luck in terms of finding a legitimate breakfast spot. I was wrong. Poole's came up on a Yelp search for places nearby so I went to scope it out and found a line of about 25 people waiting outside for the brunch doors to open. I was of the mentality that they couldn't all be wrong so I filed in amongst their ranks. After waiting roughly five minutes the doors opened and I was seated immediately at the counter where I was then immediately greeted by my server. This level of attentive and quality service didn't end until I was bid farewell by a staff member as I made my exit later on. I ordered the three egg omelette with oyster mushrooms, red peppers, and three cheese blend with a side of Niman Ranch Bacon. My food came out surprisingly fast by any standard. Considering thisplace was packed all at at once, I was impressed. The entire meal was well prepared; everything tasted fresh, delicious, and in modest proportions. My one food squabble is that the bacon was too crispy, but what it lacked in desirable consistency it made up for in flavor. I ended up spending close to $20 ($12 for the omelette, $4 for the bacon, and $2 for coffee) which is more than I was expecting for my first meal of the day. The quantity didn't compensate for the price either as it wasn't the stereotypical southern portion size I expected. Ultimately, though, I'm extremely pleased with the high quality food they serve and consider it well worth the money.
(4)Natalia A.
MAC AND CHEESEEE.....HMMMMMM. Even if i just go for drinks at midnight, I have to have that Mac n Cheese!!!!. Food is always great! Service is great, and the Drinks are Awesome too. It's one of Raleigh's Gems!!!
(5)Susie Q.
We couldn't wait to try this place with all the hype. After getting up 3 times to stand near some stranger's table to read the menu, we ordered the much heralded mac & cheese, the rosemary chicken & local greens salad. The over priced salad & the rosemary chicken w/ mashed potato were excellent but what's with all the SALT in the Mac & cheese?? I know - Parmesan! Please use less. (One thing to note - folks who drink before dinner tend to numb their taste buds). And the coconut cream pie was very good if you discard the crust. It was overly thick and tasteless. If you want good CC pie go over to Piebird. Come on Ashley, get rid of all that salt. Trust the food! And if you'd like to talk to someone during dinner, forget it. Good thing we had our iphones with us. We were able to communicate via twitter over the cacophony surrounding us.
(3)Pam C.
I love the food at Poole's and the wait staff is always attentive!I have eaten many wonderful meals there,however..... Ashley MUST do something about the very unwelcoming host and extremely unattentive bartender. We waited at least 10 minutes for him to make eye contact and another 10 to place a drink order. It was amazing! Almost comical except we were dying of thirst!! I can only give Poole's 3 stars : (
(3)Bryan Y.
How can I not possibly give Poole's anything but 5 stars? The food is sourced from local producers whenever possible. Your meal is always cooked to perfection. The menu is always changing daily, weekly, or even occasionally right before your eyes. I've seen them walk around to the chalkboard menus and cross stuff off or change various items. Speaking of the menus, the various items are interesting and eclectic. They have usually 5 appetizers, 5 salads, 5 entrees, 5 sides, and 3-5 desserts. It does change often but you'll always find Poole's famous macaroni au gratin on the sides menu. It is a must order! I also recommend the royale (burger) with local farmer's cheese or the braised short ribs. I don't think I've ever had a more tender plate of short ribs than this. And I didn't think I liked pimento cheese until I had the appetizer of it here. Yummy!!! The chef, Ashley Christensen is a local and national celebrity having been featured in numerous magazines and publications from the News & Observer to the New York Times and Bon Appetit. I hope she continues to innovate and bring even more praise to the Raleigh/Durham food scene. If I had to find something to complain about, it would be the sometimes long wait to get seated, especially on Friday or Saturday night. If you don't get there before 7, plan on waiting for a bit cauz they typically don't take reservations.
(5)Caroline S.
I can't write anything bad about Poole's. Well maybe the wait, but that's a good thing. Poole's is so good, it's well worth the wait. Love the location/atmosphere, very retro, very cool. The drinks are outstanding, the food is out of this world. From lipsmacking mac and cheese to foie gras to hearty entrees, I have never had a meal to disappoint. The prices are more than reasonable for the quality and quantity that you receive. The service is very attentive. If you like good food - go to Poole's and go often.
(5)Jeff M.
So let's get the bad out of the way first: the service was a little slow on the uptake, and I get being hip - but making patrons walk around the restaurant and stand awkwardly over other people eating their dinners in order to read the menus is completely obnoxious. That aside, however, this was easily the best meal I've had since I moved back from Chicago, and everyone around my table agreed. The cocktail list was innovative and well-executed (I had the Bourbon Cider), and the waiter was quick with wine recommendations for my in-laws. For appetizers, we had the beef carpaccio with quinoa salad and the aged pimento cheese. Both were excellent. I haven't had carpaccio served in a single large piece often, but in this case, the rustic edge was appreciated. The quinoa salad was reminiscent of tabbouleh and added a nice balance to the succulent raw beef. The bleu cheese added a nice accent as well. For mains, I had the duck confit with gnocchi. It was almost more of a ragu than the crisp confit I expected, but it worked beautifully with the perfect gnocchi. Around the table, my wife and in-laws had the royale, the striped bass, the short rib, and the chicken. All except the chicken were consumed in quick order, and each that I was able to taste were excellent. We ordered sides of the greens and macaroni gratinee and I recommend both. The meal didn't skip a beat when moving to dessert. We shared the vanilla bean panna cotta with poached apples and the chocolate chess pie. Both were to die for, and the good, strong coffee capped the meal off nicely. I'll be back, for sure -- early enough to snag a table where I don't have to crane my neck to see the menu. Thank you, Chef, for an excellent meal.
(4)Dave F.
I don't get the rave. I've had better food at a chain sit-down restaurant. Maybe I should have gotten the mac n cheese, but I had a pork shoulder and some tomato salad. I think it was $30 for just those two items and that surely wasn't enough to fill me up. The pork was pretty decent, but I felt I could have gotten the same at a BBQ restaurant. I guess you could go for the atmosphere or the decor as its a darker, diner atmosphere, but you can also just sit at the bar and grab a beer to take in what thats worth. Waitstaff were fantastic though. That was prob the best part of it. Extensive wine and beer list...with only a small amount on draft. Parking was surprisingly easy off the street, but I can imagine it could be a pain unless you don't mind paying for the deck near by.
(2)Shana D.
I'm updating my review. I'd written something three-star a couple of years ago and it began like this: All of the stars (3) in this review are for Poole's food and drink selections. We had amazing sparkling wine at a reasonable price. Our cocktails were creative and tasty. We did not dine there last night but when we did earlier in the year, the food was delicious. It was tasteful, well-prepared and seasonal. We did have dessert, banana brulee, with our drinks. Oh, how we wish it were the heavenly chocolate mousse we've daydreamed about since eating it there months ago at new years. It had a perfect texture and rich flavor that filled my mouth with delight. The banana brulee was good but just not the same. ...so the complaint was about brusque service, and I have to say the bartender may have just had an off night, because he's served us dinner a few times since then and he's cool. The staff at all of Ashley Christiansen's restaurants are pros-they are trained well, attentive, and pleasant.
(5)Randy L.
I have been going here since it opened. It is amazing. Try it all. The food comes out as it is made. Menu's are on the wall...which only takes a minute to adjust to. This place is all about the food and sharing it with the people you are with!
(5)Koreanita X.
I agree with all the other reviews that the food here is very good, well prepared and presented. However, this place is always way too loud and crowded in a bad way, thus making for a terrible dining experience. There is something about the acoustics of the restaurant that makes it possible to hear individual voices, which makes for a very unpleasant place to chillax and have a few drinks and apps with friends. It could be because there was no music playing at the time, thus making it really unpleasantly loud.
(2)Marina B.
I'll start by saying that the service was excellent. What we didn't like was the limited brunch menu, $3 extra for toast with your food (I passed on it), and the cost of $71.00, excluding tip, for mediocre meals for 4 people. Will never make this mistake again.
(2)Relevant E.
I'm a sucker for these James Beard awards - and try to visit establishments that house these gifted folks whenever possible. Apparently, the Poole's diner has recently received some decent recognition from the pros. Talk about timing -- Saturday night ~ 7:30 - we decided to go to Poole's diner for a first-time dinner and sat down at the bar almost immediately. Huge sangria fan -and Poole's tasty version did not disappoint, in fact - I had two. Appetizer menu was pretty diverse - my dinner date and I were playing safe and ordered the pimento cheese+toast, and the turnip green salad. Got what we ordered: safe. Nothing too spectacular -- pretty cliché plates. Big portions. Dinner was a total let-down - again, James Beard winner?? We were instructed to split an entrée and order sides by our waiter - Our selection "Rosemary Chicken" was out and was replaced by their fried chicken. Word on the street is the owner of this establishment is opening several other restaurants - one being a fried chicken joint. Delivering this news only made the expectations higher--this has to be ridiculous chicken!? I love my fried foods, but holy salt - I couldn't eat it? And the "notorious" mac&cheese was just as salty and another downer with it's too simple/literal recipe of...macaroni pasta...and...cheeses. These sentiments were shared by my dinner date. Dessert? No thanks. Perhaps I visited with just too high expectations, considering the press and local reputation Poole's diner has received... but I left confused what the hype was about.
(3)Marn Z.
The food and atmosphere of Poole's was great. From the salad to dessert, everything tasted great. The service was great too. I was in Raleigh from Atlanta for a soccer tournament with my daughter, it was a nice change of pace we both enjoyed it. I recommend sitting at the dining counters.
(5)Jon B.
Great place for brunch... just get there early! I have enjoyed brunch and dinner there, both great, but I love their brunch selections. Plus, the macoroni and cheese is the best. They don't take reservations, so you need to get there early and get your name on the list. Be prepared to wait, but it is worth it. Great beer, wine and mixed drink selection. Service is a little lacking, but they are usually very busy and the food more than makes up for it.
(4)Ashley B.
I love Poole's so much, particularly for brunch. I think it's the best brunch downtown Raleigh has to offer. I'd totally give this place 5 stars if it weren't for the noise level. Other than that, zero complaints. Three of the most memorable dishes I've had the pleasure of trying here were: -the Fried chicken over cheese grits (brunch)... seriously amazing. -the Huevos Rancheros (brunch), perfect. -brussel sprout side dish (dinner), they were shredded and in a creamy sauce possibly with sherry and tomatoes... and maybe 24 karat gold. MAN these were outstanding. If you have the money and time in downtown Raleigh, you'd be doing yourself a disservice not to eat here.
(4)Robert J.
This place was wonderful. We arrived at 10:55am to finds a long cue. At 11am the doors opened and everyone flooded in. It seemed the place was mostly bar seats and two tops. Larger groups will have an issue, I imagine. We grabbed 3 places at the diner bar and were quickly waited on. We had really good coffee and fresh squeezed OJ in a short amount of time. The brunch menu was on one chalk board and the dinner was on the other. There were about four boards for drinks which we could not have as a result of the NC blue laws. Is what it is! Anyhow, the menus looked wonderful. Many local and seasonal items to choose from. We ended up ordering pretty simple stuff and thank goodness our waiter prevented us from over ordering. Eggs Benedict (cooked perfectly and their holly sauce was wonderful) Heirloom Tomato BLT (amazing beautiful thick slices of tomato) Mac n' cheese (huge and wonderful. Our 6 y/o did not love this a much as we did. Fancy cheese I guess. Anyhow, we still had leftovers on this. Massive) 2 fresh squeezed OJ 1 Coffee Total: $46 Approx Great service, Great food, Great music, Great feel. It was a little pricey but I didn't feel jipped. I look forward to heading back again.
(4)Dave L.
I have been an Ashley Christensen fan since my first visit to Raleigh back in 2000 when she was the chef of Enoteca Vin. At Vin it was normal to have Ashely come out of the kitchen to serve up one of the courses or come by to ask how the meal was going - a personal touch of customer service that during my three visits to Poole's over the past year is nice to see is still her style. Poole's Downtown Diner is upscale comfort food heaven for me served in a way that makes eating food so much fun: at Poole's you share your food. Last night we sampled pimento cheese, short ribs, fried green tomatoes, chocolate pudding, sole, fingerling potatoes wrapped in prosciutto coated with panko then fried and some cheesecake - not necessarily in that order. There was beer, drinks and wine. The pace was slow and we spent about two and a half hours grazing. There were four of us at the counter and we ordered our food two plates at a time as we chatted. This is how all of my Poole's visits have been: a slow-paced, pleasant experience of food and conversation. Ashley and crew: thanks for another memorable dinner! I look forward to my next visit.
(5)Melanie B.
Look, people, if you go to Pooles and weenie out on the menu and order the Royale - you're going to get what you ordered (a burger). But if you explore a little and order something you normally wouldn't, expect your socks to get knocked off. But don't review this place negatively because you're a weenie. Or, just don't be a weenie. Pooles is hands down our favorite place to dine in Raleigh. If you complain about how long the food takes to come out, ask yourself what you order. Ashley doesn't prepare food before you order it. So if you ordered Roasted Chicken or Braised Ribs, or someone in your party orders either of these, they will take some time to come out. Just be patient, order a drink (or two), chow down on some bread and soak in the ambiance. Tips: Go for the Mac & Cheese. It's enough for two to share as a side and take some home for the next day. Her menu changes constantly, so other than that, I can't really say. I have never had a bad dish at Pooles (I've also never ordered the Royale).
(5)Wolfgang K.
Any restaurant that thinks it doesn't need to accept reservations needs to be a VERY desirable location for me to go to. And Poole's Downtown Diner is in my mind not quite good enough to warrant the hassle having to be there very early or wait for a long time for a table. On top of that this place is LOUD. With the volume of the music cranked quite high everyone in there is trying to be heard which makes for a really "energetic" place. We have eaten there three times now - the last time yesterday before a show at the Raleigh Performing Arts Center - so we needed to be done before 7:45. We got there just at 6pm and were the last group who got a table at the first seating (lucky us). Nevertheless that took about half an hour as well. The food is very good. Poole's doesn't have a regular menu but rather multiple chalk boards that show what's available on any given night. I opted for the Fried Oysters (on roasted Tomatoes) which were really good and then had the Venison Sausage which was good, too. Most sides are big enough to share and our Mac & Cheese side (they call it Macaroni au Gratin) was outstanding. On previous occasions I have had the short ribs which seem to be on the menu every time and liked them, too. One of the nice things about Poole's is that the wait staff (at least our waiter) really know about their wines and are able to recommend just the right glass to go with each course. Poole's is not a cheap place - and given the hassle of not being able to make reservations we will probably find other places to eat in the future.
(3)Patrick H.
This is comfort food at its finest. Of course, if you have someone in your life who makes the most amazing home cooked meals (perhaps your mother-in-law in Indiana), you don't need to eat at Poole's. But if you don't have someone like that in your kitchen, or they live too far away, then you'll want to come here. Everything they serve is of the highest quality and spectacularly delicious. My wife and I ate here last week with some friends. We ordered two mac-n-cheese side dishes and shared it with whole table - all six of us. The portions on the sides are generous. Their menu changes according to the local fare that's available but the mac-n-cheese is a staple at the diner. I ordered the herb chicken and my wife ordered the Royale. Both were excellent. The chicken was a baked wing and breast served over creamy mashed potatoes. Fork tender and flavorful! The Royale was served in the U.K. style. It looked like a giant meatball on an open faced sandwich. I stole a bite and can report that it was not 'just a burger'. It was like a juicy meatloaf cooked medium rare. Needless to say, my wife loved it. For desert we had fresh-from-the-oven chocolate chocolate-chip cookies. The only downside I could see is that this all costs a lot more than you might be willing to pay for mac-n-cheese, chicken, and a burger. But you're paying for perfection of comfort food on a gourmet level and a warm sophisticated atmosphere. Every bit will make you think of home. Oh, and when you come for dinner at the diner. Dress respectably. You don't need a tie or evening gown, but I'd say showing up in shorts and sandals would be in poor taste. And it's not a fast food diner either. Give yourself a couple of hours when you come for dinner. It's a place the invokes long conversations and a slow dinner.
(4)Bobby G.
busy busy busy.... not from in town and was told to go here by several local restaurant people. for all the hype. not impressed. sorry. it was ok, but a little too over the top w trying to impress. sometimes less is more.
(3)Adam D.
Man I hope my Friend Bryan doesn't read this, he loves Poole's :) Bryan, cover your eyes. Poole's is terrible. Poole's is owned and operated by this "chef" that is very popular in Raleigh. She's opened multiple restaurants in the area. Her MO goes like this: identify an established form of American eatery, strip all of the warmth, humanity, and heart out of it, and present a cold and antiseptic parody of it. Poole's was her first take on this but she's recently done the same with new ventures in Raleigh. Poole's is her take on a diner. When I think diner I think friendly staff, comfy booths, and comfort food. Poole's is the exact opposite. The staff is made up entirely of cold and aloof hipsters. There are no smiles, no friendly gestures, just "I'm burning a hole through you with my eyes" stares. The atmosphere is horrible. The place is terribly cramped, the seating is uncomfortable and the tables are flimsy. The worst is the menu. Instead of a menu at the table it is written on a blackboard on the wall near the back of the restaurant. This is a horrible idea because the entirety of the menu is not visible from every spot in the restaurant. Also it can be hard to read the hand written letters. That means that to get a good look at the menu you have to hover awkwardly around other folks tables and in the way of servers just to read the menus! What moron designed this place? The overall impression is a spiteful parody of a diner. A "diner" where everything that makes a diner plea sent stripped out. A cold and uninviting Apple store impression of a diner. So the atmosphere is terrible and the staff are about as cuddly as sea urchins but is the food at least good? No. The food is awful. The thing that stands out the most for me is "The Royale:" this is Poole's cruel parody of a hamburger. It is a salty meatball served on a slice of crustini with a little jug of au jus sauce. I want you to read that again because it is 100% accurate. It is a salty meatball on a piece of bread. It's gross. Not only is it gross Poole's has the audacity to serve it with no sides! As though a salty meatball is such high art cuisine that it can stand on its own a la carte! Presumptuous beyond belief. The pimento Mac and Cheese is alright if you like salt and Velveeta (which I do) but to see salty mac and cheese paraded around as fancy food is hilarious. The pate (spelling?) is cat food. The carpaccio is flavorless and glued to the plate. Overall I am almost convinced that Poole's is a clever joke. The food and atmosphere are both so bad I wonder if the chef is playing a prank on Raleigh's hipsters and trend-chasers. Being at Poole's is like being Alice in Wonderland. Everyone tells you it is so good but it is just awful beyond belief; is everyone insane? The emperor has no clothes; the only thing I can't tell is if the emperor is in on the joke.
(1)Jason H.
Mac and cheese is amazing... The hamburger was delicious though it is a lot of meat for one man... You've been warned! Wife had the bass also very good. I don't think I'd go here for a " romantic" dinner but I do want to go back one evening for drinks. Soda is out of the glass bottles, so keep it in mind when choosing a beverage.
(4)Megan K.
i've been going to poole's since i was 14... so a decade. i would always get their tuna melts and then i'd go to kings which used to be right next door. so... a lot of great memories. they've definitely classed up the joint since then and upped their prices but its still absolutely delicious. i've never been disappointed. ok this is solely a brunch review: delicious coffee friendly staff the hot cakes are to die for... crispy on the outside, eggy and soft inside, topped with a huge dollop of the most delicious whipped cream you've ever tasted, and the day's fresh fruit. the macaroni and cheese overfloweth. a charred, crunchy top with scalding, decadent cheesy goodness underneath. lobster grits... delicious lobster chunks and the most creamy, flavourful grits that have ever graced my taste buds. eggs benedict. rich and tasty. don't come here for brunch if you're looking for cheap eats... because you'll need to get coffee, some sort of alcoholic beverage, the mac and cheese and something else. anytime i really want to treat myself on a sunday, i go to poole's. also, the ladies bathroom has everything a girl needs. lotion, bobby pins, hair spray, dental floss, tampons, etc etc. so thats rad.
(4)Shannon P.
Best Brunch I've ever had!! Okay - so I've been to Poole's several times for dinner and have always loved it but have been wanting to give them a go for Sunday brunch. Well, we finally got there today. The first thing you need to know about Poole's: they do not take reservations for brunch or dinner so you have to be prepared and be okay with waiting at least 30-45 minutes. Once you're cool with this, the rest is easy peasy. They do have a large bar section that is first come, first serve seating if you don't want to wait for a table. The menus are on chalkboards around the perimeter of the restaurant. I love the look of the chalkboard menus and is a clever way to distinguish themselves. Today at our table from the brunch menu: black bean huevos rancheros with pico de gallo and chili sauce. Holy moly is all I can say about that! The tortilla was nice and crispy and the plate was loaded with black beans. This was a great vegeatarian option as it did not contain chorizo (huevos rancheros typically does). Rich got the omelet - sun dried tomatoes, arugula, and cream cheese...yum. The 'rents had S.O.S...military term for sh@t on a shingle. They change the S,O.S every week but today it was a beef gravy over fresh corn bisquit. We also tried the eggs benedict - delish. Simple in preparation yet complex and just right on the palate. We could not resist sharing the macaroni & cheese and yukon gold potato hashbrowns. I know you're jealous just reading this...you should be - it was food nirvana!! BTW - the macaroni and cheese is simply the best I've ever had - EVER. Forget about your waistline and order this - but only if you have enough people to share it with cuz it's huge! The waitress was extremely pleasant which can be difficult to do when they're always so busy. We never felt rushed at all. She kept the mimosas coming (sadly they can add up quickly)! They are so good - fresh squeezed OJ too! There simply isn't one bad thing I can say about this place. They're only open Thursday, Friday, & Saturday night and Sunday brunch, so put this place on your list for your end of the week 'to try' place.
(5)Care H.
Brunch review. Heard about this place from the NYtimes article, "36 hours in research triangle" and decided I needed to try it for myself. I nearly drove past it though, it's a small operation without any large glitzy signs. I liked the ambiance, very modern upscale diner feel. No menus - just large black chalkboards. The space wasn't very large, it had a long counter, and a small number of tables. This place seems like it would be an excellent place to kick back a few drinks, relish the yuppie environment. I was intrigued by the food, but I have to admit that it wasn't as marvelous as it sounded on the menu. We were also surprised at the portions. Though our items were $12-15 each, the portions are what makes this place expensive. So when you come here - remember that you'll probably need to get a side of something else. My brother got the eggs benedict, very good, but not out of ordinary. I got the berry challah french toast. It was delicious, it reminded me of a moist, eggy coffee cake. Service was quite slow, it was busy and they seemed slightly understaffed. So it took us another 25 minutes to get the sides we decided to order after our meals came. The biscuits with apple butter were decent, but the hash made my morning. Cheesy, onion and butter potatoes, mmm.... While Poole's has some great ideas, I'd have to come back for dinner to really gauge what this place is about. It's slightly pricey and the service we received, while nice and friendly, wasn't the most efficient. Oh yes, for weekends, make reservations!!
(4)Pam S.
Not many places get a full five stars from me, but this is certainly one of them. I enjoy Ashley Christensen's food, and the fact that I even know the name of the chef shows that she has made an impression on me and many food writers across the nation. Poole's serves comfort food pure and simple. They make everything they serve. I even love their butter and find myself smearing it on every piece of bread or biscuit. I can really recommend the brunch, as I've had brunch here many more times than dinner. Macaroni and cheese is heavenly, with a lovely crispy top. The omelets are large and especially delicious with fresh vegetables. Their grilled biscuits are a favorite, always included is some type of seasonal jam or preserve. I've never had bad service here. My one complaint on Sunday morning brunches is that they play some very hip music, which people have to talk over. Combine that with a small space, and you find yourself almost screaming to talk to your companions. It is a lively place, not somewhere you would go for a quiet relaxing meal.
(5)Al W.
1st time here. The food was great although it took a while to arrive. I had the flounder and my partner tried the rabbit. Both were great ... And side order of Mac and Cheese is a must!!!
(4)Prisha P.
Food is great~ However the fish was a bit too salty. The tender pork was absolutely delicious and love the atmosphere!
(3)Felicia G.
As most reviews on here there are a lot of raving fans of Poole's Diner.....and here are 4 more.....while in Raleigh last week visiting our son we wanted to try Poole's to see if it lives up to all the "raving".......we arrived early around 6:30ish so we were seated right away.....we loved the diner atmosphere and the no menu's as it makes it less stuffy and a more casual dining experience! After reviewing the menu we wanted to order one of everything....Our favorites were: The pimento cheese app; Beet Salad (was fantastic) Mac & Cheese was rich and decadent .......Service was great; we never felt rushed and Amanda was very attentive but not too much! As far as comments of being overpriced.....I must say that we felt the prices were in line with any other "upper end" dining establishment! I will also add that it's worth the price to eat FRESH LOCAL FOOD!!! Well done Ashley!
(5)Amy N.
The wait is always outrageous, the space is way too small, with people and chairs crammed everywhere, and they seat people at the bar so there is almost nowhere to stand but outside. Stil,l people keep going back, and I'm one of them. The vibe is hipster-retro, the staff is friendly, and the food and drinks are phenomenal. If you're in a hurry or want an intimate (read: quiet and dignified) dinner, go somewhere else. But if you have the time and want a terrific meal that just feels cool- from the quirky decor to the changing menus written on chalkboards- Poole's is the place to go.
(4)Jodi B.
The food quality was great - but like others - portions are WICKED small. I get that it's part of the vibe or whatever - but it was so tiny my husband had to stop on the way home for more food - not good value for the investment. :( Not on my short list of places to go back to...
(2)Wendy B.
Absolutely fantastic! Make sure you get there early! The Mac n cheese is fabulous! Thank you!
(5)Shruti D.
Four of my friends and I went here one weekend and that was a bad move! They do not take reservations but when we called, they said the wait is around an hour. We got there around 8:00pm. They told us the wait will be 1 -1.5 hours. We were fine with waiting. We went and got some drinks and hung around. After waiting almost 2 hours, the dish that everyone wanted to get got crossed off. They had no more chicken left. We decided to leave.... so after waiting 2 hours, WE never got to eat here. GO EARLY!
(2)Kate P.
Went for Sunday brunch. I found it Overpriced, Pretentious, and Loud (so as not to be able to hear my date). Everything is a la carte - even the toast with an omelet. The menu, written on a chalkboard, was barely legible and written VERY small. A cup of coffee, omelet (basic, nothing special) and toast was nearly $20! I think not.
(2)Drew D.
I will try not to be too negative because I've only been to Poole's once and have been told it's usually better. I arrived at 6:45 and two seats at the counter opened up in about 5 minutes. We ordered appetizers, mains, (they call the entrées mains because it's somewhere between a tapas and an entrée in size) and some side dishes. The first appetizer came out in about 20 minutes, it was fried oysters over a corn salad. The oysters were delicious and I was anticipating good things to follow but unfortunately that was the best of the night. Next was some Vidalia onion rings, they were not good and the batter just fell off. So then we waited close to an hour for our mains to arrive. I had the pulled leg of pork, it was a small plate pork in its own juice seasoned with salt and pepper. The pork was prepared well but was nothing special and certainly not worth $18.00. The person I was with had the Royale, an open face burger that was very good. For a side we had the Mac and cheese, everyone raves about this and it was cooked perfectly but I thought it was kind of bland. I would have liked to try dessert but I needed to be somewhere before 10:00PM and was thinking it would take less then 3 hours to have a meal. I would be willing to give this place another try the next time I'm in Raleigh if it's still open. My opinion is this restaurant is more hype than substance and I hope it doesn't become a victim of its own success. The great Yogi Berra once said "Nobody goes there anymore. It's too crowded"
(3)Jenny S.
Poole's is simply wonderful. I know the menu changes so I waited until I could go again to review it. So last week I went with Steph W. It was a Thursday night and even though it was around 8:30, we were lucky enough to get a table right away. Enjoyed a glass of Scuppernong sangria (I am a huge fan of scuppernong grapes and will basically try anything that utilizes them)- it was a bit too sweet. After that I switched to a phenomenal red wine that the waitress recommended. We split a plate of mussels to start, Poole's does them just right. These are large, perfectly cooked, and come with bread to soak up the sauce. Next I went for the arugula salad. Beautifully fresh, crisp, and delicious, with just the right amount of dressing. After that we barely had room for the scallops entree and of course, the "macaroni au gratin" (seriously one of the best things on the menu, don't miss it)! The one strange thing about Poole's is that sometimes the presentation of the food is off. Some dishes come out looking wonderful but sometimes it just looks like they slopped your food onto the plate. It's the only inconsistency I've noticed. Actually, the only thing that could make Poole's a 5-star would be optional table menus. I love the chalkboards and the fact that the menu changes often, but unless you have to wait for a table due to their no-reservation policy, you don't really have time to look them over before being seated. Even a plain paper menu printed daily/weekly would be fine!
(4)Charlie T.
We were there this past summer, the same night as The Dead concert. I think we got a contact buzz coming and going. The wait was awful, and they did not manage expectations well. They told us it would be 25 minutes, and it was at least double that. Luckily, we were with friends we hadn't seen in a while, and were able to catch up with them over cocktails. Once we were seated, things went more smoothly. The food was good. I had a really nice mac and cheese, and beef royale. We also had a really nice heirloom tomato and goat cheese over crostini appetizer. We'll be back.
(4)Emily F.
Meh. I love the food b/c it is tasty and delicious and different, but the Bloody Mary's really leave a lot to be desired and the service is SLOW. Also, for how much money it is and the quality of the food, can they not spend a little on cleaning it up? Don't get me wrong, I will go back.... when I am in Raleigh again....
(2)Sharon B.
Great food and service. Sat at the counter which was better than I expected. I has hoped for a table but the counter service was great. Ordered pimento cheese app with toasts. Our server noticed we were running low on toasts and brought us some more without asking. Had the short ribs with grit cakes, flounder on field peas and a side of sautéed spinach. Everything was great but the short ribs and spinach were the best. Great beer selection.
(5)Todd C.
Perhaps this restaurant has had too much hype and they are getting by on their inflated reputation. We went early on a Tuesday evening so we could get a seat, which we did. We were seated underneath the blackboard menu and had a constant stream of people standing at our table to read the menu This was quite disconcerting and continuously distracted us from our meal. Not that the meal was all that worthy of attention. I had the "Leg of Lamb Meatloaf". It was dry and tasted eerily similar to the Salisbury Steak of my childhood TV diners. It tasted like it had been cooked days before and was warmed up and had gravy put on it. My wife had the Halibut, which came as a 2oz portion. At $20+ per entree, I expected much more from this place. Needless to say, we won't be going back or taking friends and family there.
(1)Sandrine E.
First off the ambience in this cute spot is so warm & welcoming. Our server Amanda was such a delight. We had the opportunity to meet Chef Ashley who was so sweet. She has such a talent of creating dishes that are so delicious with every bite. First of we had the crostini with pimento cheese. It had just the right amount of saltiness & sharpness. Then we tried the fried green tomatoes they were sooo good. Everything I had here was great. Next time I'm in Raleigh, NC I'll definitely be stopping by.
(5)Lori L.
Poole's is a bit of an odd bird. It's built like an old fashioned diner, and has the ambiance of a more upscale restaurant, with a casual vibe. Can you picture that? We pop in for dinner early on a Wednesday and were seated promptly. The front part has a dining space and the bar. Behind the bar, on the wall, is a chalkboard with the list of cocktails and wine offerings. I didn't think much to pay attention as I was sure we would be given menus. Nope. Poole's does not have physical menus. I noticed around the restaurant, above the tables, were other chalkboards showing the food items available. It was hard to read our menu as there was a glare from the light shining on it, and I had to preen my neck in order to read it. So, now, I had to go back up to the bar area to figure out what I wanted to drink. I wasn't completely put off by this. It just seems to be an unnecessary "hassle" to put customers through. Now onto the food. I ordered the chicken over Yukon mashed potatoes. The chicken was moist and flavorful. I really enjoyed the mashed potatoes. But for $17, I was expecting a bit more chicken. It was pretty much a thigh and a leg. I rarely do not have leftovers, and this time there was nothing to take home. I've heard rave reviews of their mac-n-cheese, but alas, I did not try it. When I return to Raleigh, I would definitely return to give it a try.
(3)Jessica M.
This re-invisioned 1940's pie shop is a diner only in a hipster sense. I don't say that as a bad thing though as I loved the atmosphere, service and food at this Raleigh off the beaten path destination. I had a wonderful whiskey cocktail, the scallop dish and split an awesome salad that had fresh blue cheese and maple walnut dressing. It's not cheap, but if you're dining with great company you can share your salad or sides are done family style. Other menu maybes the night i went included butternut squash soup, tuna tartare and brussel sprouts. though everyone writes about the mac and cheese and the 'Royale' burger.
(4)Jamie C.
PEI Mussels swimming in a delicious cream sauce, house made pimento cheese spread, house made chicken liver pate, house made butter with fluer de sel, avocado salad with apple and blue cheese and walnuts and a delicious vinaigrette, big fat delicious amazing open faced medium burger, braised chicken thighs, brussels sprouts..... the most delicious macaroni and cheese I have ever had..... chocolate brioche bread pudding, amazing wine and cocktail list, super friendly and attentive service... OH MY!!! Locally owned... get here early, as there was still a full house at 9 pm on a Wednesday. If you like locally owned restaurants, fresh and new constantly evolving food selection, and a restaurant with a sense of self - visit Poole's!
(5)Adam A.
I will never get Pooles. Went for brunch, ended up getting the $14 eggs bene -- what came out were two small benes on an endless expanse of plate; no sides, no nothin (It tasted just fine, to be sure). A very depressing looking plate. Totally not worth it and hella overpriced. I felt like I was really just making a donation to Pooles by getting that dish. The house is probably making $13 on the benedict, so kudos to them. Service was despondent, slow, uninterested, and generally lacking. Sorry to have inconvenienced the server by showing up. It just isn't worth it to go to Pooles given all of the other, more satisfying options just blocks away. Oh well.
(2)Michael E.
Poole's downtown diner is a great place for good food. While some people are upset about them not taking reservations, the fact that they have a full house on most nights is indicative of their foods quality and their excellent waitstaff. My first experience with Poole's was very memorable. We were wandering downtown on first Friday and had passed Poole's a number of times. We strolled over and were immediately overcome by the noise of the place. Loud, but not too loud. I liken it to the sounds of a holiday meal with family. The way the diners "U" shaped counters evoke community and prod people to mingle. The chalkboard menus push people to move around and mill about, causing interesting conversations to be exchanged, or even a discussion on food, wine or more. Aside from the bustling ambiance the food should definiely take center stage here. My recommendation is to get there early as items of popularity get crossed off the menu quickly on busy nights-not just5 food but also wine and beer. Next up to receive high marks is the waitstaff. At times a bit standoffish, I've come to realize that they're leaving you room to talk to the patrons either looking over your shoulder to read a menu, or sitting next to you examining your entree decision. I've had wonderful experiences both at dinner and at brunch. Poole's is a bit pricy, but for a special night out it's near the top of my list.
(4)Perry H.
Not the worst but can certainly find better, especially for the price - this is a review of brunch. We were seated just after 11am for brunch at one of the semi-circle bars. We waited for at least 5 minutes before someone took our drink order then another few minutes for the drinks to arrive then at least 10 more before someone took our order. This was the standard service for the entire bar - the bartender got everyone's order at the same time. So if you were the first two there (which we weren't) you had to wait for the entire bar to fill before the show started...so service wasn't good at all. The food was okay. My eggs benedict was good, but nothing to write home about; I've had way better and I've had worse. The kicker is that the entrees come with no sides - so you pay $12 for eggs benedict then have to tack-on another $4 for hashbrowns ($5 if they ring it up wrong in the computer which happened to us). Then coffee on top of that, so you're looking at a $20, average, brunch (with bad service). The cheese grits were very good, taste wise, although the grits were extremely undercooked and the hash browns were tasty albeit a little on the cold side. Also, none of our food came out at the same time - my plate came out, then my wife's, then the sides a few minutes later. Bottom line - the service is slow, its crowded, and its expensive (all of which I can bypass if the food is actually great but its not).
(2)Jill F.
Hands down my favorite restaurant. You will not be disappointed. Fresh local fare that changes daily and and a staff that can't be beat. They have really done it right here at Pooles. Check out their sister restaurants; Chucks, Beasleys, and for drinks, foxes liquor bar. Keep an eye out for a couple new spots opening up from the same owner/chef in the next few months!
(5)Frank D.
I travel to Raleigh often on busines and had the opportunity to try Poole's based on the recommendation of a friend. Its a two block walk from the Convention Center, Sheraton and Marriot, and is a heck of a lot better than the restaurants sitting in the courtyard area in front of these hotels. Five of us went about 6:30 on a Wednesday night, and were seated right away. We were told that on weekends there can be a line out the door as reservations aren't taken. The decor is a modernized version of a diner with a chrome edged counter area with stools, and booths against the wall. Menus are written on chalkboards located in various places around the room and are broken into 5 categories: apps, salads, entrees, sides and deserts. Selections were great, modern versions of basics like chicken, short ribs, pork shoulder, etc. Some of the non-food savvy in our group found the menu do be challenging since it used words like poulet and macaroni au gratin instead of mac 'n cheese. Once the translations were made for our friends things went well even though the three less adventurous eaters in our party ordered the Royale burger, which did look good. We had a pimento-cheddar cheese log with crostini as an appetizer which had a slightly spicy kick to it that was nice. While they looked good, we skipped salads and went straight for the entrees. I had beef short ribs with a creamy faro. The ribs were falling off the bone tender and decadently marbled. Another friend had the braised port shoulder with kale which was also great, and as I mentioned above three Royales which featured 10 oz patties of beef ground in-house. For sides we had the mac 'n cheese which was great, ditto caramelized brussels sprouts and red potatos which I didn't try but also looked good. There were also chicken in marsala and seabass entrees that looked equally tempting. The quality of food and preparation was modern high quality Top Chef kind of fare, and I didn't see a dish go by that I wouldn't have liked to try. Our waiter was laid back but knowledgeable and gave us a sample of several wines to help us make our choice of a bottle for dinner. Poole's is the kind of place my wife and I frequent at home in Austin, and I will definitely visit every chance I can when in Raleigh.
(4)Raj D.
Ok food, and if it cost a third of what it did, I'd give the place three stars. The two words that best describe this place for me are over-rated and over-priced. I was real excited to get at some of the famous mac+cheese and wound up just shakin my head in dismay at what I got. It was definitely cheezy and buttery and I truly love both those things but this was too much especially given the lack of any other strong flavoring. Kale salad was ok, but I felt I could've whipped up something at home for a fifth of the price that would taste at least two times as good. Maybe I just haven't become cultured enough to appreciate this food or rich enough to shrug off the hit to my wallet. I'll try this again after a decade and let you folks know.
(2)Olivia H.
Everything I ate at Poole's was like a party in my mouth. Seriously. There was nothing that wasn't worth putting a ring on, and that's a pretty tough feat for any restaurant. Also - I have a million food allergies and annoy even myself when eating out, and Poole's was super accommodating in how they prepared my meal to account for that. Matt was charming and entertaining, and we left with 6 To-Go boxes because I COULD NOT WAIT to have those leftovers the next day for lunch. All-told, when I want to really celebrate, Poole's is my foolproof go-to.
(5)Lauren P.
Friends, acquaintances, and strangers alike rave about Poole's Diner, so I've been wanting to try it for quite some time now. Since I knew that there would be a wait if I went any other time, my husband and I decided to go right after work on a Tuesday so we would beat the crowd. And we did - we were sat promptly upon our 6:30pm arrival. But if we had waited another 30 minutes, there would have been a long wait. Our choice of libations were the Campari Spritzer (a true delight) and Fullsteam's Working Man's Lunch (rugged). Go figure. For entrees, I got the rosemary chicken and my husband got the pork tenderloin. We did not share the side - I just got the mac n cheese because I had heard it was "the best" and indeed it was delicious even for lunch the next day. Overall, my husband was underwhelmed and although I enjoyed my chicken thoroughly, I had experienced better. I understand that Poole's uses the freshest seasonal ingredients, but we did feel that it was a tad overpriced (between the a la carte sides built for 2, entrees, and if we had opted for an appetizer or dessert). I have no complaints nor praises about the service. So yay. The atmosphere is what will bring me back. I would love to try a couple of side dishes, appetizers, or a salad instead when I do return. I debated whether to give Poole's 3 or 4 stars because I'm not sure I've given it a fair chance! So I will say 3.5 stars and revisit at a later time.
(4)Karin M.
Poole's was highly recommended, so tried it for the first time this week while visiting Raleigh for work. It's easy to miss the entrance as there isn't signage that screams "Poole's". You have to look for it, but that is part of what adds to it's uniqueness and charm. Don't expect to be handed individual menus when you are seated. The menu for the day is written on chalk boards on the walls of the restaurant. We had the deviled eggs to start which were unbelievable - 3 different varieties all of which were phenomenal!! I would return for these alone! Everyone enjoyed their entrees. Don't be fooled by the seemingly small portions for the entrees. Most are served in a shallow bowl, and at first I thought I would be going home hungry. But I was pleasantly surprised that they actually hid quite a bit of food in that bowl. Everyone was completely satisfied. The pork shoulder was tender, juicy and delicious! We also had a vegetable that we had never heard of before - Kohlrabi. It was delicious and prepared well. I'll be looking for that at my local grocery store. The biggest downside, and I guess it can't really be a complaint since they are technically called a "diner", was that it was LOUD. It was hard to hear the conversation in our 4 person booth. Overall - Great unique food, and a cool trendy environment. I'll be back.
(4)Charles U.
Amazing!!! Wait...let me say it again...Amazing!! I was in town for the weekend and a buddy recommended this place and it was the find of the entire trip. Great food. Great service. I had sea bass and the tomato base was spectacular. My friend had scallops and those were equally to die for. The evening was made sweeter because the bartenders make killer cocktails. Overall a wonderful experience
(5)M R.
Good food, not enough tables!
(4)F. R.
Poole's had long been on our list of Raleigh restaurants to try out. Being Durham-ites, we get lulled into the friendly confines of the Durham restaurant scene, but Poole's was definitely worth the trip. Worth mentioning is that we are often turned off by having to play the parking game when visiting urban restaurants, but Poole's has its own parking lot right across the street. A very pleasant surprise given the location. Now to the restaurant experience itself. I have to say that I was a bit worried that our expectations were too high. But Poole's met and even exceeded our expectations at every turn. We arrived fairly early on a weekend and were seated promptly. The restaurant seemed to fill by around 6:30ish. Yes, menus are on the chalkboards, but it wasn't really a bother to me. We did have to leave our seats to read the drink menu, but could read the food menu from our chairs. I had a very tasty cocktail. Sangria with strawberry and ginger. It was unique and refreshing. Perfect summer drink. We were starving so we ordered the baguette. Not a huge fan of having to pay for bread, but I guess not totally out of the norm if you aren't at an italian restaurant. We decided to skip any other appetizers, and go with 2 entrees, the mac and cheese to split, and a dessert to split. First, the mac and cheese, which was almost unanimously recommended on this website. It was very, very good. Not the best I have ever had (that distinction goes to Bin 54 in Chapel Hill), but very very good. We also took home more than half of it! For those that complained about portion sizes, you surely weren't referring to the mac and cheese. I ordered the duck tortelloni and my husband ordered the red drum. My duck dish was seriously the best entree I have had in a long, long time. I was a little worried since I didn't know what a chanterelle and something else on the description meant. But I literally ate every single bite. Yes, it was only three tortellonis, but it was more than enough for me, especially when combined with some mac and cheese and bread. My husband really enjoyed his red drum as well, although we were both awed by the duck tortelloni. I didn't really have much expectation for dessert. Mainly we ordered one because it was a special occasion and if you are going to make a big trek out to a nice dinner, shouldn't you at least try it? We got some sort of chocolate chess torte. I had no idea what that meant other than "chocolate", but it was the perfect ending to our meal. It had an amazing caramel ice cream on top and even my husband, who isn't a sweets person, loved every bite. We left totally full and our tab with one drink each was right at $80 before tip. Not the cheapest place, but worthy of a special occasion for sure. I would definitely go back to Poole's someday!
(5)Dawn F.
I took my Dad here after hearing several great recommendations from friends and coworkers. We arrived about 615pm knowing there would be a bit of a wait. We had planned to arrive earlier, but traffic was bad unfortunately. We were told it would be an hour wait, which was pretty accurate. The staff behind the bar area were great -- gave me a sample of a wine so I could try it before committing. The food was phenomenal, and the waitress even told us it may take a little longer since I wanted my royale medium-well. Super delicious.
(4)Adam S.
I went to Poole's with a coworker on business travel because I had heard good things about it. We got there about fifteen minutes after they opened and the only seats left by then were around the counter. I took this as a good sign. Indeed, many people there seemed to be regulars. Like other commentators, I found the use of the chalkboards as the only source of the menu to be awkward. I had to stand over someone else eating to read the salad choices... Glad I wasn't sitting there trying to eat. The food was good but not spectacular. I started with a roasted beet, slaw and duck confit. The slaw was probably the best part. The toast the confit was served on was ridiculously thick, making it difficult to eat. For my main I had the corned beef beignets. It was definitely a novel idea, but the corned beef was quite dry and it was more like a deep fried piece of corned beef than what I remember of beignets from being in New Orleans. The side, braised cabbage was cooked to mush and needed more acid, in my opinion, to brighten the flavor. It was worth the try, but I probably wouldn't go back again.
(3)Cindy G.
Tried it out for the first time last night (Monday). Arrived just after 6PM and were seated immediately. By the time we left at 8pm, people were waiting for tables. Get there early! Enjoyed our meal, smoked pork shank for me and seared flounder for my husband. He started with the steak tartare and the beet and avocado salad. I started with the green salad with seared Brussels sprouts. My salad was great but really, at $11.-I'm about ready to skip them altogether. The mark-up on salad greens, even organic greens is ridiculous, not just here but at most places. Bottom line, Poole's provides great meals and excellent service. We will return to try their new spring menu.
(4)Jennifer L.
No matter what you order, you won't be disappointed. BUT... if I may suggest the mac & cheese though...try it! Ashley not only is talented with her menu creations with new offerings but comfort foods as well, she is all about the community. You won't be disappointed at this establishment. Seems like a hole in the wall with its location but aren't most hole in the walls amazing?
(4)Brett S.
I need to go back on a date night to really get the full experience. I love the somewhat exclusivity of the place because folks come and they stay...the wait was a bit substantial but the food was good. My experience was a bit overshadowed by being with family but a solid dining experience after we got to the table.
(4)Judy W.
Just had the most fantastic dinner here! Our waiter, Brandle, was so helpful and entertaining. He suggested wines and brought taste of wines until we found one we liked. Every course we had was delicious...tuna tartare, beet salad, crab salad with fried green tomatoes, and great tomatoes with ranch blue cheese dressing and toasted cornbread for starters. Our entrees were outstanding...short ribs, pumpkin swordfish with farro and roasted cauliflower, and butter roasted shrimp and PEI mussels with grits with a tomato sauce. And then the brioche chocolate bread pudding with toffee ice cream...OMG!
(5)Amy B.
No matter how the food tastes, I can't give a good review to a place that makes you feel like they are doing you a favor letting you in the door. Poole's doesn't take reservations and only does one seating per evening. If you don't plan your evening around having dinner there, and make sure you show up within a narrow time frame, then you may as well make other plans. To me, this sends a very distinct message--Poole's does what is most convenient for them, and if you don't like it, then go somewhere else. I don't think the burden of inconvenience should be placed on the customer in the customer-restaurant relationship. To me, that type of attitude is a real turn off. I had dinner here on a Friday night, and didn't know about their whole "one seating per night" thing. I showed up within the correct time frame which afforded me the opportunity to wait around until I could *perhaps* be seated. The hostess let me know that I was in luck, and would probably get the pleasure and honor of eating at Poole's that evening. Since I was alone, I also got the pleasure of being wedged between two other groups at the bar---for a single diner there is no other option than being seated at the bar. My bill may not add up to the same as a larger group, but I am still paying the same (outrageous) prices as everyone else. I know, I know...I was once a server, and am not talking about having the right to sit alone at a six-top for 3 hours on a busy night. But I don't want to feel like a second-class diner just because I'm eating alone. I will say that the food was good, although I wish I had brought my magnifying glass to see the portion I got. I ordered beef cheeks on a parsnip puree. It was definitely smaller than a standard portion--seemed like about 3 ounces on less than a cup of puree. The price tag was steep--more than $20. It was good, although I felt that the richness of the meat could have been balanced a little better somehow. The service was good--friendly and not snobby as other reviewers have noted. I watched other servers, and I think I may have lucked out with a friendly down-to-earth waiter. If I had been seated elsewhere, I know I could have gotten a "hipster filled with ennui" bringing me my food. When I told my husband I had gone there on a whim while he was doing something else, he was really bummed. Given that he has a big appetite, likes a good value at a restaurant, and is not someone with a taste for hipster bullshit, I told him that he would not have enjoyed himself and would have left hungry. Anyway, my curiosity about Poole's was satisfied by that experience, so I can spend my time and money trying out the numerous other great restaurants that this area has to offer. Poole's, your ego and attitude has gotten the best of you, and I think my first visit was my last visit.
(2)Diane M.
Went with my neighbor and fellow foodie. Pimento cheese had a spicy kick and was delicious! My friend had the Royale and enjoyed it. I had the cider braised pork with pappardelle and kale( if I remember correctly) , fabulous...as in I had this on Wedneday night and I am still thinking about it. We shared the broccolini with breadcrumbs and parmesan...nicely charred and perfectly cooked. We went on Wednesday evening at about 8pm and got seated right away. We both agreed though the plate sizes were nice for two woman to enjoy apps, dinner and dessert, most men would need a bit more, but agreed we would like to take the hubbys back with us.
(4)Naomi D.
Definitely one of the best restaurants in Raleigh at the moment, if not THE best. The chef takes on the Southern food movement and makes it not only delicous, but creative in ways that you would never expect or could conjure up yourself. The place is smallish and diner-style tables, but cozy and classy nonetheless. The menu changes on a daily basis, which is part of Poole's appeal as it reflects seasonal items and availabilites. Some of my a la carte favorites have been: butternut squash soup with local honey, collards sauteed with garlic and pork fat, short ribs with turnip greens and other roasted veggies, and a cucumber/melon/country ham salad. All of the above items manage to hit all your sweet/salty/tart/spicy tastebuds in this way that is truly indescribeable. A serious mouthgasm occurs when having most of her well-thought out and put together dishes. I don't know how the chef does it, but she really does. You sort of forget you are eating Southern-like food and think you might be in a haughty French restaurant at times. The drink menu is one of those things I fear to look at because everything looks so fresh and delcious that I know I will end up spending a fortune on drinks but love every moment of it (of course). Cucumber infused drinks, lychee berry cocktails and a damn good dirty martini with superb quality olive juice. Oh god, I need to make room in my budget this month. AGAIN. I have heard (minimal) complaints about the service and the portion sizes, but as I have mentioned in previous reviews, if you want lightning fast service and massive amounts of mediocre food, go to effing Carrabas or another chain restaurant. If you want creative and quality food and drink, it takes time and a touch of love. And love takes time (thank you MiMi). And all of the servers here have been very cordial and nice in my 4-5 times I have been there. The host even remembered my name and asked me how my meal was on the way out- impressive! This made me want to revisit not only for the food but for the coziness!
(5)Brent L.
I'd heard so much about Poole's and was curious to finally try it, and for the most part I thought it lived up to the hype. As has been said, it's a small little place that is really crowded and a little noisy, but we showed up around 7:30 on a Saturday night and were seated at a table within 10 minutes. The food was delicious. I had a 10 oz burger essentially, but it was so much more than that. The beef was extremely tasty and it was covered with melted, amazing cheese and sitting on top a piece of grilled bread. Simple, but delicious. The mac and cheese is all it is cracked up to be, you won't be disappointed. My wife had roasted chicken, which was good, but not anything to knock your socks off. Poole's also has a good wine and beer list, with two Fullsteam beers on tap, I love it when they keep it local. All in all, a nice spot for a special occasion but too pricey for me to go there often. That said, it's worth at least one visit if you live in/around Raleigh.
(4)Laura S.
My husband and I went to Poole's after hearing great things about it. The menu is broken up onto different chalkboards throughout the restaurant which I found annoying. I thought they would at least give us a printed copy to view when we sat down but we didn't receive anything. It was difficult to read the menus and we had to lean in different directions to see around people. I was shocked to see you have to pay for bread-$3 for about 5 pieces and some butter. For the prices they are charging, bread should be included as part of your meal! I was very surprised at the prices for the entree's-all in the low $20's-not what I expected for a restaurant with the word "diner" in the title. Our food was good-I wouldn't say it was outstanding-but it was tasty. We ordered the mac and cheese which was also tasty. When the bill came, it was $78, not including tip. This was for one drink each, the mac and cheese, 2 entrees and the bread. I was shocked to see the mac and cheese was $10!!! Ten dollars for a side of mac and cheese is ridiculous! For the prices, I would expect a more upscale locale and service, not the locale and service of a diner. While the food was good, it is not good enough to warrant a return trip at those prices!
(2)Dave C.
If I weren't broke, I'd eat here often. In fact, if you already go out to Outback, Olive Garden, or Carrabas, or any one of those places where a dinner for two runs about $30, just go out half as often, and go to Pooles. You can eat here moderately, but be prepared to spend some money. Blah, blah, blah, Iron Chef. There. Now that that's out of the way... I don't know ANYTHING about food, but I know that the food here is special. It's honest, it's rich, it's... euphoric. Food doesn't come quick--and it's not supposed to. Who ever said it should by the way? The best meals I've ever had have been seeded with anticipation. The bar is stocked with just about anything you'd like, and one of the bartenders knows everything--so just ask! Go there. Treat yourself. Give it a shot. You don't like it? Please tell me somewhere better. BTW--Everyone should know by now that brunches are never supposed to be good. That's when chefs clear out their walk-ins of everything leftover from the weekend.
(5)Sheri E.
I checked out Poole's for brunch Sunday with some friends and somehow managed to miss the after-church crowd and get a table with no waiting...awesome. I tried to do my usual menu stalking before heading here, but they don't list a menu online as it's always changing since they use local produce, etc., which I appreciate. Their menu for brunch was rather small, consisting of only about 7 or so main items and about the same amount of choices for sides. You're not given a menu when you come in; you have to go up to the bar and look on the blackboard, which is fine, except I felt constantly in the way or like I was being rude and standing over people eating to see the menu, which my boyfriend had to read to me since I never wear my glasses =) I went with a dish that was named "The Hangover"...a delicious creation of cubed seasoned Yukon gold potatoes topped with cheese and sour cream and onions and really amazing golden heirloom tomatoes; AND since I couldn't pass up what everyone raves about, I also ordered the Macaroni Au Gratin to share with the table. You HAVE to try the Macaroni Au Gratin. It was just the right balance of creamy and super cheesy with a nicely crisped cheese topping on it. I'd go back to Poole's, though maybe for a special occasion since they're a little more on the pricey side for the meals they have.
(4)Jeff H.
After several trips to Poole's I have to say that it's the best restaurant in Raleigh, hands down. Ashley's food is the star, as is appropriate. Her use of a huge variety of local produce and ingredients and her creative riffs on southern traditional preparations is simply stunning. Yeah, the Mac and Cheese is awesome, and the pimento cheese isn't far behind but it's the variety of the overall approach that's truly impressive. Whatever's fresh at the market is on the menu, prepared with a delicate touch and remarkable skill, no matter how humble the ingredient. The only possible downside is that the room is so small that the lack of reservations makes for a long wait if you don't get your timing just right. Still, it's not like it's not worth the wait.
(5)Dave W.
Wow, what a good time this place is. Stayed nearby for work and I feel like I had been here in a previous life when I lived in Raleigh. Back when you could get a PBR, shot of bourbon and cigarette maybe? Anyway, Poole's is a much different experience today. Revolving local produce inspired Chalkboard menu, skilled, thoughtful and original choices for beer, wine and cocktails...I was overwhelmed really. Got there about 6:30 and waited about 30 minute for a solo spot at the counter. Definitely get there early with a group of 2 or more if you want to eat during primetime. I sort of went with my intuition with bartender's suggestions as backup and seemed to hit a home run at every at-bat. Forgive my paraphrasing due to lack of foodie linguistics. Beet salad with pecan crusted goatcheese, fancy onion things with orange horseradish vinagrette drizzle --Out of the park, wanted to lick the plate. Pork shoulder over top chickpeas with a side of special tasty kale - wow, pork can indeed melt in your mouth. Local pears over a creamy crusty tasty spread for dessert - You got it, I did lick this plate. Second dessert of famous Mac N Cheese?! Yes. Yes. Yes. What a fun meal. The portions aren't very big (except for macncheese) so that the only reason I was able to go the four rounds. I'm embarrassed that my gluttony showed when I got my bill as well..... Anyway, you Raleigh folks know what I'm talking about since you've been there. For visitors to the Marriott City Center for work, or maybe pre-concert, Poole's is located just a few feet from both. An experience not to miss. Just remember to get there early....
(5)Ryann w.
My husband and I tried to go in for brunch one weekend. Let me start by saying, we did NOT have brunch. So I can not comment on the food. I agree with another reviewer in saying that it feels like Pooles is doing you a favor by opening the doors at a certain time, not taking reservations and always having no more than two servers on the floor at any given time. I get that the whole -menu-on-chalkboards thing. It's green and gimmicky, but horribly inconvenient for the patron. We decided to go with the program anyway. After waiting for about 10 to 15 minutes for a drink order to be taken, we ended up leaving. Meaning, lack of order to be taken. We were not even talked to by anyone working for Poole's after being sat at our table. We will probably not be returning.
(1)Lester M.
This review is a little dated, but someone recently mentioned Poole's to me, and it made me think back to a brunch I had here a few months ago when the weather was still warm. Overall, I thought it was a great experience. As other's have said, it doesn't seem like a diner in the proper sense (or any sense, for that matter). When we arrived, it was pretty packed, and we had maybe a thirty minute wait before we were seated. While waiting, I was able to observe the clientele, and a lot of them made me smile. From the one classically cool southern gentlemen in a proper, tailored seersucker suit with un-done bowtie, to the threesome drinking the bottle of Cristal at the packed counter, I really enjoyed people watching. After we were seated, the service was prompt and attentive, despite the crowd. I had a mimosa and the egg's benedict, and they were both good - on par with the greatest brunch spots in Durham (wow, this sounds like Durham food snobbery, but it isn't meant to be read as such). I'd be back regularly, if not for the 30 minute drive.
(4)Michael L.
I've been to restaurants where the entrees aren't too big, but this place had the SMALLEST entrees I have ever seen. For $23 I got MAYBE 3 oz of "lamb shank." You know, the thing that usually is a hunk of lamb with a bone sticking out of the top? Nope. They shaved off three ounces of lamb. For $23. If it were insanely delicious, I'd be okay with it, but it was just fine. The side of macaroni "au gratin" was FANTASTIC. I should've just ordered that. Also the beet salad was very nicely sized and pretty good. If I were to go back, I would only order entrees and sides. Also, the credit card machine broke, so the manager gave us his card and said he was going to process it later. I haven't seen a charge yet, so we'll see what happens!
(2)Laura M.
Had an amazing meal with my parents. All meals were unique and fresh, tasted great. Was a little loud but worth it!
(5)Vanessa C.
Yum! As in every other review, please try the Mac and cheese- it's awesome! More than enough to split and then some. They offer some unique dishes that are familiar but fresh (eg you know what you're eating but you can take a slight chance with someone new). Really cute inside, perfect for a date. Love that the menu is on the wall.
(5)Tonia S.
Food was amazing! Service was o.k. guess they knew how good the food was. Mac n cheese was a must! the "hangover" potatoes on the brunch menu were to die for!!
(5)Lauren R.
Packed. Loud. Cramped. If you like to yell during dinner, you're in luck. The wait? The noise? Totally worth it. Fresh, organic, local, hipster food with a nice vibe. Very urban Raleigh. - Cheese Pimento plate was okay, not amazing. - Sweet corn veloute could have been a meal. Amazing. - Braised pork shoulder in a tomatillo sauce that just melts in the mouth. - Buttermilk fried chicken on Yukon gold potatoes that were KILLER. Drinks are expensive and overrated. Good beer & wine list. Took forever to get a glass of water, but once the food was ordered, service was brisk & pleasant.
(4)Mao M.
We finally dined at Poole's diner after several miss hits of showing up when they are closed or not finding a parking space (turns out they have a lot available across the street after 5 pm that we didn't see). The restaurant is nice enough and we can see why it is popular but it's not for us. It reminds us a little bit of Hayes Barton Cafe, probably because of the great southern hospitality. The diner is very loud when we were there and our table was located under one of the menu boards so we were always being crowded out by groups of people reading the boards and not really respecting our dining experience. It got to the point where we would just stare at the while they loudly discussed their dining choices over our food. I ordered a chicken dish which was good but pretty plain. My son ordered the burger, med-well, and it was served seared on the outside and raw on the inside. I agree with others that the menus selection is limited so you may want to check it out online before venturing out. If I were to rate the service alone at Poole's diner I was be giving it 5+ stars. It truly was some of the best I have seen in a very long time - and I am pretty critical when it comes to service. I cannot say enough about the service. We were well taken care of as if we were dining in their home. Also, of great note, we were well taken care of without asking in regards to my son's undercooked meal. The waitress asked my son if he wanted another one but he declined because it just turned him off. When we received our check, the manager/owner/someone other than our waitress apologized for the undercooked food, said it was taken off the check, and gave us a most delicious chocolate mousse "on the house". Again, I wish I could review for the hospitality and service alone. Tip top notch. Final note, diner seems to be a popular watering hole for groups of 40+ aged women. Hmmmm, maybe I just went for the wrong reason and with the wrong dining partner :) This place will be a gem for many, and just not right for others.
(3)Natalie J.
Everyone must try this mac & cheese! Love this place, everything about it!
(5)Bob M.
This is as good as it gets, for sure. I think it is the best food in Raleigh. Great service, local produce treated with the utmost care. A remarkable chef. We are lucky to have her in Raleigh! I even enjoyed the glass of champagne my wife poured on my shirt (she says it was an accident).
(5)Ryan L.
I liked the retro diner vibe and thought the long and winding bar was inviting, but the place was too dark and putting the menu on a couple of ill-located chalkboards wasn't so great. The food was very good. I enjoyed my Royale burger and my dining companion loved her chicken dish. The price is extremely high though and our meals should have come with a side (which was $8 for broccoli) The highlight of the evening was the dessert. I had this chocolate mousse with caramel and salted pistachios. Really great. Overall, nice place but they need to either adjust their prices or include the sides.
(3)Thomas B.
Pros: allegedly good food (and the only reason they earned a second star) Cons: Where to begin... * Rude, self-important management * Poor location (unless you like parking/eating next to a dangerously-congested main traffic artery across from a Firestone tire dealership) * Selfish owner-focused operating hours (Wed-Sat dinner only) * No printed menus, either on web site or in restaurant--you have to strain to read chalk boards on one wall. I have tried three times to eat here, twice during their Yelp-published operating hours. However they are now open just four days out of the week, and only for dinner. Not knowing about these strange hours, my second attempt was on a Wednesday for lunch and hallelujah, their door was open! However the two ladies who presumably run the restaurant gave us a dirty look and didn't otherwise acknowledge us for quite some time, after which they rudely asked "can we help you with something?" They then dismissed us, informing us unapologetically of their limited hours, and sarcastically bid us "good luck." I stopped back this past Saturday for lunch and again they were closed, even though Yelp indicated they should be open--strike three. The only thing that intrigues me about this establishment is others' reviews of their menu selections, although other than that their entire way of doing business is a complete turn-off. Any establishment that doesn't serve dinner at least 5-6 days out of the week is simply lazy, or perhaps just self-important. Their web site offers absolutely no details on what one can expect here food-wise, and ordering from the handwritten chalkboard menu opposite the bar (they have no menu books) is quite inconvenient. Given all of the other great choices nearby, I find it unlikely that I'll try Poole's again. I wound up going around the corner to Jibarra and was treated to wonderful food and fantastic service which further confirmed my decision to eliminate Poole's from future itineraries.
(2)Laura B.
Delicious! Get there early if you want a seat! You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. My only regret is that we didn't get the Mac and cheese! When I saw it coming to other tables I was very jealous! Menu changes all the time so it's a great place to go if you want something unique.
(5)Paul K.
Really great meal, service was excellent nothing bad to report at all. Brought our own wine and no problems
(5)Heather H.
The food can be great. But I've had too many bad experiences here to give it a great rating. True- I haven't been in probably a year, but every time I have been there there has always been an issue. Either waiting a ridiculously long time for the food to come or really small portions. It has been hit or miss for me.
(3)Steve H.
First visit, first review of Poole's Diner, visited on a Thursday night ~6:30 with my wife and 11 year old daughter, we just had entree's; scallops on polenta for me, "Royale" for my wife, and mac and cheese for my daughter. The basics: Pooles doesn't take reservations so show up and hope for the best, we were a bit late for a first round table so we sat at the counter. The service we had was very good, several bartenders and others checked with us often to see if we needed anything or fill our water. The food arrived within a reasonable amount of time. The restaurant is very hipster chic, so I wouldn't recommend it for most kids, but if your child likes good food and can sit still for dinner they'll probably enjoy it (my daughter did). This restaurant is on the pricey side entrées are ~$18-20, the Mac and Cheese and other "sides" are ~$9. Most of the entrées are small so you probably want a side or an appetizer to go with it, the Mac and Cheese is huge so after my daughter finished all she could eat my wife and I downed the rest of its delicious goodness. The Royale is a super thick open face burger that you'll eat with a knife and fork, my wife ordered it medium and it really came medium rare, but it was very good, there isn't an included side so if you want some stach or veggie you'll need to order it separate. The scallops included 5 large scallops on some creamy polenta. It was very good the scallops were nicely seared without overcooking the centers, The polenta and kale topping were very good, creamy polenta with tasty kale, once again unless your on a diet this dish alone isn't going to satisfy you (get an appetizer or split the mac and cheese between three or four of you). Pooles offers bread on the menu but you'll have to pay for it. I didn't see the point, if your going to pay for something to eat before the meal get a real appetizer. They have a large number of bottled beers, and two beers on tap (both Fullsteam brewery selections when we went). They also seemed to have a reasonable number of wines by the glass available. The beer and by the glass wine prices were actually quite reasonable (for a hip restaurant - $5 drafts), which is a nice since you'll probably need to buy at least a couple while you wait for your table. Overall it was a very nice experience.
(4)Martin J.
First, the positive. This is the best comfort food I've ever had. From the appetizers (lobster salad with avocado; pimento cheese) to the entrees (pork shoulder sausage; soft shell crab) and the sides (mac and cheese; fried okra), it was all delicious. You can tell that the ingredients are fresh and high quality. Also have a great beer/wine/cocktail selection. But, the 2 hour wait put a bit of a damper on our experience. Granted, we went on a Sat. night and were told it was a 45-60 minute wait. We were prepared for that, but we weren't seated until 9pm, after arriving shortly before 7pm. I would definitely go back again, but not on a weekend.
(3)Nancy L.
awesome! simple as that!
(5)Deborah S.
Don't even try to eat all the mac and cheese. Two tablespoons and I was totally done. It's that good... my tastebuds couldn't handle more. The kale and beet salad was off the charts and I'm not usually a kale fan. We skipped dessert but will definitely come back. Personally I'm a bigger fan of beasley's, but this is still amazing.
(5)Justin T.
I love this place. It's my favorite restaurant in Raleigh, and I wonder how it could not be? They have fresh, local food that is cooked well. They usually have 4-5 appetizers and 4-5 mains, so they give the dishes that they have love. The chicken dish is usually a down home rendition, with perfectly crisped skin cooked to the perfect temp and mashed potatoes. If the other dishes weren't so good I may get that every time. Over the summer there was a soft-shell crab with fava beans that I still remember exactly because it was that good--definitely one of the best crab dishes I've ever had. The chicken liver pate is great as is the pimento cheese made with Hook's Cheddar usually with a perfectly buttery crisped baguette. The royal (burger) with cheese is perfectly season and done to temp because they grind it in house. The sides are just as good, having a perfect macaroni and cheese, and usually some great local greens like collards, chard or brussel sprouts. The bar is as good as the food. They have a juicer clearly visible so you don't have to worry about the bartender pouring a corn syrup infused juice. Most of the drinks are great having lots of both dark and light liquor options. It's really what every restaurant should be, fresh local food prepared well consistently. The brunch service sucked epically when I've been waiting forever for drinks, to get our order in and the food. A large reason for the 4 and not the 5.
(4)Dave P.
Took my wife here for Dinner on a Saturday night. We went around 6:30 and expected it to be full so we were glad to take a seat at the bar. If we waited another 30 minutes though, we'd probably be waiting a while. Obviously the place is hyped up, but I've gotta say it lives up to its reputation. Food was moderately priced for a trendy restaurant (obviously not a "diner") and cooked to perfection. I had the scallops and my wife had the striped bass. Both were remarkable but the real star was the side of Brussels Sprouts. They were cooked with oyster mushrooms and a sauce that tasted buttery and nutty. I only enjoy sprouts when cooked with butter but the nutty taste (almost like a pecan or walnut) was a great touch. We also both got cocktails and that's why it's 4 stars instead of 5. The owners also own whatever that liquor bar is attached to another one of their restaurants so we expected these to be equally as good. My bourbon cocktail was a little week, and her Italian fruity something or another was much too bitter, presumably from too much grapefruit zest.
(4)Christi L.
The marinated avocado dish was absolutely the most satisfying thing after a successful yet harrowing day at the library... Thanks for the great service! Seriously, who knew avocado, chèvre, and charred onions would be something you'd want to write home about? Let's do it again!
(4)Ghazal S.
Poole's began as a pie shop in the 1940s, transformed into a hot lunch spot in the '50s and was recently reinvented as a classy but simple restaurant under the vision of Chef Ashley Christensen. Poole's easily made it to my list of all-time favorite food places. Though the wait may have been more than an hour and a half, the eating experience was well worth it. Poole's keeps it classic with a few great cocktails, slow and hearty cooking and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you hopped a time machine back to a great party in the '50s.
(5)kellie h.
our reprise visit to poole's diner sadly upheld it's reputation of mediocrity at brunch. i really hadn't hoped it to be true. the strength of this place seems to only flex at dinner. we didn't have to wait since we walked in just after they opened the doors (bonus!), but i could tell immediately that the energy at brunch wasn't as pumped up as during the evening meal. food was eggs benedict with grilled porchetta and bernaise, grilled bisucits with butter and strawberry jam, yukon gold hashbrowns, and scrambled eggs with pimento cheese and cripsy fried onions. oh, and coffee and a virgin bloody to drink. total: $43.50 + tip. a bit steep for smallish portions and dry service from the staff, even at the bar. i'm cutting them some insider's slack though; it sucks to work brunch. the bright side is that Poole's is still in my top 5 places to eat in the triangle... for dinner.
(3)Mal D.
Best Mac n cheese I've ever tasted. Great atmosphere. A must visit in downtown Raleigh.
(5)melissa d.
What a surprise to find such a gem in an unassuming little establishment. We love the diner-style atmosphere. However, there is nothing "diner-like" about the food! Everything is made with the highest quality ingredients and you can just tell that a lot of love goes into the preparation of the meals. Don't pass up the mac and cheese...you will be in awe of its awesomeness! This is a lively, fun, downtown hangout that I'm sure you'll return to again and again!
(5)Brian M.
Good food. Wish drinks were stronger like Vertigo's were.
(4)Fred D.
Amazing food and great drinks. I love coming here. I always sit at the bar for dinner and I love it.
(5)Rachel C.
The husband and I have been here at least 5 times, always for dinner. We've always had a hard time choosing between the daily menu options and always order too much food, delicious, heavenly food. Every item we have ordered was great. The last favorite I had was an appetizer of fried oysters. I'm from Louisiana. I know oysters. These were magnificent. In addition to excellent food, the drinks are great as well. Last visit, they were serving pitchers of a Pimms cocktail. Loved it. Perfect for the incoming heat wave. Service here has been exceptional. Poole's is easily and by far my favorite restaurant in Raleigh.
(5)Jenna R.
I've loved everything I've ever gotten at Poole's--cocktails, dinners, brunch, and really crisp salads!
(5)Tripp W.
Had brunch here on New Year's morning and left really pissed. The food was VERY underwhelming and unimaginative for what they were charging ($20.50 per seat w/o a drink). The staff acted like they were doing us a favor by being there and serving everybody. Included in this behavior was our waiter tossing the check at us, our dishes coming out of the kitchen 5 minutes apart, and being lackadaisical with coffee/drink refills. I noticed the same stuff at tables around us and it wasn't even that busy. Not sure what all the buzz surrounding this place is about, but we are never ever going back.
(1)J C.
My wife and I chose to enjoy a dinner at Poole's before heading to the play. This place is very trendy. We were seated quickly but there was a significant crowd waiting for a table when we left for the play at 7:00. Our two favorite selections were delivered first to our table: a baguette with house made butter and asparagus with a mushroom and sherry sauce. These were exception. Next we had fried green tomatoes. These were good but not terribly unique. For an entire we shared a uniquely presented rib dish. Ours was a bit tough. I should have sent it back. Our server offered to swap it but we had consumed too much to send it back. For desert we shared a double chocolate pie with fresh whipped cream. Overall we enjoyed the meal. Our service was very good. The room was quite loud.
(4)Sam Z.
My favorite restaurant of Ashley Christensen! Everything we had was delicious. Be sure to order some sides for the table- the Mac and cheese is out of this world. Also drinks and cocktails are unique and really good- also pretty strong! You can't make reservations and it's small so expect to wait or go during the week, very early or late to be seated faster.
(4)Cody M.
Best restaurant in Raleigh. Like everyone else says, get the mac and cheese. I've found that often the small plates are even more amazing then the large ones, so get a bunch of those and share. I'm hungry just thinking about it. The menu changes daily/weekly so you'll never get tired of this wonderful wonderful restaurant. Tip: Don't plan to come with a huge group or you'll just get frustrated by the wait. Come with a group of 4 max and let yourself enjoy the night without worrying about the lack of reservations.
(5)Nathan W.
$100 for bland and overcooked food Chicken liver pate($9) was the only thing that had flavor. pork tenderloin($21) dry and overcook, no flavor deep-fried soft-shell crab($25), no seasoning and tasted like an Outback bloomin' onion *server wasn't very friendly. His face said "tip me and leave already..." *95 degrees outside and they didn't open the doors until 5:30 even though they advertise open at 5:00pm *there were EIGHT employees working the front and bar, EIGHT! and they all were staring at us... My wife and I are never going back to this place. Bonefish grill has the best food and prices in the area.
(2)Karen C.
Great service! The bartenders are very friendly so do tip them well. Portions are a tad bit on the smaller size except for the Mac and cheese.
(4)Vivi T.
Bravo Ashley Christensen, WINNER James Beard award Southeast!!!!! My favorite restaurant in Raleigh with good reason. This place is 100% worth the wait if you enjoy thoughtful, creative food. Grab a cocktail and a seat and don't forget to save room for dessert!!!
(5)Stephen T.
Came here with my fiance last night, and I was pleased to an extent... I thought the service was great, the flavors were amazing, but the atmosphere for the price... Didn't really make sense to me. I mean you sit down and it seems like you're going to get sliders and shakes, then you look at the menu board and see 22$ pieces of chicken, with portion sizes that look like they came out of a fine restaurant in downtown Vegas. I got the BBQ short ribs with fingerling potatoes... Now don't let the plural on "Short ribs" fool you, its was one rib, no bones, cut in half (photo attached). So more specifically, I got A SHORT RIB, with 4 potatoes the size of large peanuts, cut in half. Now again don't get me wrong, the flavor of the short RIB was amazing, cooked perfectly... But for about 22$? I mean come on guys... Felt like a 13 dollar dish, not a 20! I will probably go back in the future for special occasions, but with 2 meals, a coke, water, and tip, it was $50. And when I got home, I made homemade raviolis and had to eat another meal...
(3)Seth P.
Stopped here on a whim after hearing good reviews from friends. The atmosphere is great. Entrees were great. I had the fried NC soft shell crab and my girlfriend the roasted spare ribs. Both entrees were to die for. The freshness of each entree was definitely noticed. As for sides and appetizers, our table split the Macaroni au gratin, asparagus, fried green tomatoes, and pimento cheese. The Mac and cheese is huge with plenty to share and absolutely to die for. The asparagus with a mix of fresh mushrooms were nice company with the heaviness of the macaroni. The pimento cheese was fantastic (coming from someone who is not a big fan of pimento cheese). The fried green tomatoes were okay but were cut into wedges vs. the traditional slices which made them difficult to eat and the breading would not stay on. Overall a great stop and a great example of NC farm to plate cuisine. Must stop when in downtown Raleigh.
(4)Laura A.
Cozy upscale diner atmosphere with consistently exceptional food and service. The Macaroni and Cheese is an absolute stand-out; the noodles are expertly prepared in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, topped with a layer or slightly crisp, caramelized cheese. The flavor and preparation of each dish are always impeccable; I have yet to be disappointed in any component of my experience(s) at Poole's.
(5)Jinny Y.
It was worth the 1-hr wait! We got the pimento cheese appetizer. Good, but a little salty. All the mains and appetizers we're awesome. I'll list them in order from favorite to least favorite. All are 4 star+ worthy: 1) rabbit "slick" with rabbit confit, duck fat noodles, butter beans, and carrot-castelvetrano 2) pan seared NC sheepshead (fish) w/butternut squash, red Russian kale, marinated peppers, and trumpet royales mushrooms 3) braised pork cheek rellenos w/white acres peas, charred tomato + pickled okra braising jus 4) pastrami'd short ribs w/cabbage "agrodolce", cornmeal fries okra, and roasted tomato Russian dressing The dessert was OMG amazing!! Simple, but genius: dark chocolate panna cotta w/brûléed (homemade) marshmallow, and graham flour streusel. I will definitely come back here. :)
(5)Tess M.
Amazing food and menu by Ashley Christensen!! Though the no-reservation policy and the understaffed nature of this place makes it a bit annoying on a weekend night. But its not impossible (thank God this isn't SF/LA/NYC). They open at 5pm and already there's a line for first round seating. First round folks are seated by 5:30 so if you get there around 6, chances are your party won't be seated until 7pm. Too bad Poole's isn't closer to the rest of downtown Raleigh (or the rest of the AC-franchise (fox liquor bar, joule, chucks, beasleys) so that you can just walk around the corner for a drink and then return. Nonetheless, that's what we did given it would've been a 2+ hour wait. We got a drink at Fox liquor bar which was wonderful! In terms of the food- excellent!!! Mac and cheese ($10) is one of the best I've ever had. And it's cool they didn't have to spice it up with "truffle or lobster or crab"... Just the simple mac and cheese was sufficiently delicious and leaves one wanting more. We also shared the lettuce/Brussel sprouts/pomegranate seed salad which was refreshing. The duck confit with beans and gnocchi was good but I was surprised that the confit was shredded and didn't come as a whole leg (with crispy skin). Hummingbird dessert cake (which is similar to carrot cake) was amazing but you should definitely share this with others in your party! Oh yes- bottles of wine ranging from $36/bottle to over $150... Quite the wine list and all very unique- don't be afraid to ask the bartenders for a taste before you decide which one to get!
(5)Joanne K.
Mac and cheese is delicious !!! Cute atmosphere ! A bit pricey though.
(4)Juliette M.
Can't find enough words to describe how much every single thing we ordered was incredible. And we ordered a ton of food. Best dinner I've ever had in raleigh, hands down. Loved it. Our server was delightful, too!
(5)Katherine L.
Wow! Poole's has been on my list of places to try for awhile now, but it's always too crowded on the weekends. Our long work week was a perfect excuse to go in on Thursday and I'm so glad we did. We arrived when it opened, and waited at the bar (with delicious cocktails, my weakness!) for the 5:30 seating, and were seated first. Weekdays also means that it's much quieter inside. Being early has its perks--because we spent the half and hour at the bar, we were able to browse the menus on the wall and knew immediately what we wanted once we were seated. We ordered the watermelon avocado salad, which was topped with goat cheese and a delicious dressing; the short ribs that came with a lobster-potato salad that I will have to try to recreate at home, and the macaroni au gratin that I have been hearing about forever. So delicious, so filling, and way too much food for two people. Next time, I have to have 4+ to order it. Our food came out quickly and was super fresh and the service was excellent! We skipped dessert (the macaroni was the dessert), but we'll have to come back again to try the other offerings. And probably skip the macaroni. Tips: Come during the week and come early Drink a cocktail Share everything
(4)Steven A.
I've read a lot and heard much about this place for several years but was on guard for anything that smacked of being overhyped, which is often the case with a restaurant that gets this much publicity. I learned that lesson at Husk in Charleston. Well, now that I have tried Poole's, I see there was no need to be apprehensive. This place rocks and one of the ways they do it is by underpromising and overdelivering on every aspect of your experience. At first we were told it would be a 45 minute to one hour wait for a table. No problem since we could stand around the bar and drink ourselves paralytic during the wait. We were seated at a booth ten minutes later, still on our first round of drinks. The drinks were up to scratch, too. I asked for a Bombay Sapphire gimlet and the barkeep filled my glass almost to the rim with gin and gave just a squeeze of lime. Nothing like getting a healthy pour of premium liquor for only eight bucks. I could easily become the poster boy for alcoholism at those prices! Our waitress Julie was Perfect with a capital P. Great personality, hyper-efficient and knew every dish on the menu back to front and wasn't bashful about giving you detailed opinions on what sides you should choose to match with what dish you ordered. And she is darn good looking, too! My group shared the pimento cheese, chicken liver pate, and beet salad. I did the braised rabbit for my entree. It was the best rabbit dish I have ever had. I didn't know the Easter bunny could taste so damn good. Since we were three fairly intoxicated men by the end of the meal, we did the Mac and cheese for dessert. We don't need no stinking chocolate or pie! And stop looking for a better mac and cheese. You won't find it anywhere else but here.
(5)M H.
This place is trying too hard to be hip and cool. My husband and I were excited to try this place. That excitement dwindled when we had to work just to read the menu. They post it on boards around the diner. You have to walk around just to see what you want to eat. same goes for the drinks. We had to get up multiple times, it was so stupid. Really ruined the experience. I had roast chicken with mash which was good. My husband had pork chop with some brine liquid and beans. We split the mac n cheese which was average at best. He got so sick the next day from the pork. We will not be returning or trying any of the other restaurants owned by the same chef. Service was great but doesn't make up for the food.
(1)Morgan D.
I stopped in here for dinner on business travel. Outstanding food!!! I grabbed a seat at the counter. The beer selection was fantastic. The bartender was very friendly and recommended the arugula salad and the Mac and cheese. Glad I went with this! The Mac was perfect- albeit about 3x too big. Would be better to share. The dessert was also fantastic. Some banana bourbon custard. It was great! Would definitely recommend this to others in Raleigh.
(5)Karmilla C.
The reason I have four start because one of their famous dish- Mac cheese is always too salty... Even the last time I ordered it; also, I think the price it's ok but maybe little bit over for portion like this small, thought it's not the main concern , you would paid whatever for good food right ?! I also ordered the ribs and chicken, it was perfect, just wish the portion for the rib was bigger,.. Since the waitress said is " family style"..., and me and the other 3 boys ended up didn't have enough food But over all, very great quality food just too noisy as everyone said, but it make sense since the place it's really small... With that many people ~~
(4)alex c.
Splendid NC soft shell crabs. My best local reference said this was his favorite restaurant in town, and now it is also mine. This place easily holds its own against restaurants in California. Next time I'm in town I'm going here with my wife, and I'm going to order more than an entrée and a beer! The diner theme is fun, but when you arrive it is immediately evident that this place is run by people who know and love food and wine. I sat at the "bar" and my server knew his stuff. The food and service took no longer than one would expect in a packed house with plates carefully made for each guest. If you aren't always excited by new ideas about food, try to arrive with an open mind. If you love farm-to-table freshness, an interactive environment, and a beautiful presentation of delicious food, go to Poole's Diner.
(5)Nash P.
This place is awesome! Definitely one of my favorite spots in Raleigh. You have got to get the mac & cheese when you go. Menu is always changing and is always excellent. This is a very good date night spot. We are actually going tonight because we have friends coming in town. They stay open late which I love because being in the restaurant business I usually I don't get off until late. Even if you're just looking for an appetizer and a drink before the show or hitting the town I definitely recommend this place.
(5)Judy B.
This is probably our favorite restaurant in the Raleigh Durham area. The food is always amazing. The ingredients are fresh and well prepared. The mac n cheese is the best I ever had. I cannot say that I have ever had a bad dish at this restaurant. The only thing I wish was better is that sometimes you get a staff member who is just not very friendly. It is only on occasion but it is the only thing I can say negatively about the restaurant and why I could not give it 5 stars.
(4)Richard V.
The food at Poole's was excellent. My wife had roast chicken and I had braised short ribs. We shared a side of Mac and cheese. All of it was fantastic but a bit overpriced. I got the feeling this is the type of place where you are paying a little extra for the "scene", but it's not worth it. The servers and hostesses were all super affected hipsters who acted like they were doing us a huge favor by taking our drink and orders. The whole vibe from the servers and bartenders was very put-upon. This place is very pleased with itself. There is lots of good food in Raleigh. Skip Poole's.
(2)Jessica W.
The food here was absolutely AMAZING! It's the first place we've been in a while where every single thing on our table was excellent. Often when my husband and I go somewhere good one of our meals is better than the other... But not tonight. :) We started with the bruschetta app- perfectly salted and peppered. I had the Scallops and Mac and cheese- both were superbly wonderful. The scallops were served on creamed turnip greens. I read before we went that "the Mac and cheese was even better than people described it"- that person hit the nail on the head! :) My husband had the pork chop and broccoli rabe- excellent. The pork chop was served on white beans and topped with dried plums. The plums made it out of this world! My brother in law had the white sweet potato and smoked cheese tortellini- delicious. The tortellini was topped with braised short rib and crispy tobacco onions... It made the perfect bite! For dessert we had the pineapple upside down cake with caramelized brown sugar and pineapple, and ginger ice cream- outstanding!!!! Check it out! :) The only thing to consider, as a downfall, is that it is very loud in there... But totally worth it!!!! :D
(5)Amanda K.
We had been talking about going here for 3 years ever since my husband read about it in an article. For whatever reason we always ended up going other places. About three months ago we finally went with some friends. I am a huge mac and cheese fan so I knew that was being ordered. While the mac and cheese was amazing I wasn't impressed with my entree and neither was my husband. They weren't bad, but just ok for the price. Recently I was craving the mac and cheese and went there again. This time I only ordered a salad and split the macaroni with my husband. I would definitely go back again and do this next time. They also have a yummy cucumber drink. I asked the server what was in it so I could re-create it at home. The bartender came over to the table with a postcard that had the recipe on it. Excellent service!
(4)Matt B.
This is absolutely the best "diner" I have ever eaten at. Realistically though, it's not a diner but they have done an amazing job sticking with the layout, decor, food, etc. The food is top notch and flavorful and it certainly seems like a Raleigh must-do. I highly recommend you bring your patience with you and order up some amazingly delicious food off the wall (no menus here, just chalk boards - something to keep you busy while you wait).
(4)Samantha V.
Loooove this place. My flight got in late so as soon as my boyfriend picked me up this is where we went. Got there around 9 and were told it would be 25-35 minutes but 5 minutes later they called us for a table. Great drinks, menu changes daily, and if you get there late some things may be gone. I totally agree with the reviewers that the Mac and cheese is incredible, a meal in itself so maybe you should share. Also had the steak au poivre which came with brussel sprouts that were out of this world. Didn't have room for desert so no comment there but next time we'll be smarter.
(5)Melodie S.
All that come to mind are superlatives. Don't go anywhere else in North Carolina until you have tried Poole's. I regret every minute that I have lived in the area and not known about this culinary wonderland (it has now claimed the title of my favorite joint in Raleigh, and I don't just throw those accolades around). As we walked out from our late-night (they are open until midnight on the weekends) bite last night, sublimely full and happy, I thought about whether there was anything that could have possibly improved the experience and I couldn't think of a thing. Good; Ambiance- this is what diners are like in heaven. Right here in Raleigh, folks. Service- attentive, knowledgeable, non-invasive, perfect. Booze- Beautifully composed wine selection and drink list. We didn't order anything from the bar this trip, but absolutely will next time. Food-SUPERB. She makes her own butter. Butter! Who does that? It was agonizing to order because we were starving and everything sounded amazing. She levels her astonishing talents upon fresh local ingredients and the result is nothing short of spectacular. The menu exists on an ever-changing chalkboard according to what is in season or of particular interest to the chef that day. We had the fresh corn soup, w/fresh baked bread, and a side of the freshest, most mouthwatering patty pan squash imaginable. And I challenge the reviewer who claims his mac & cheese to be superior to Poole's glorious rendition to a side-by-side comparison. She puts a pinch of nutmeg in it which is MY closely guarded family secret but even I know when I am bested. Bad: Eventually having to leave. They are only open WED-SAT (Open for Sunday Brunch)
(5)Kirby m.
Poole's doesn't need anymore good press from the likes of me, but I love it so much I have to say it. I've been here twice, once for my birthday in Sept. and once for my bf's birthday in May. The first time we had a wait of about 30-45 mins, but this was on a Friday night, and it was during Hopscotch so downtown was slammed everywhere. Last time we walked right in and were immediately seated. I've had the lamb sausage with gnocchi and the sword fish with melted tomatoes and olives here and both were fantastic. There is always a perfect balance in the ratio of meat to veggies and everything is perfectly seasoned. Like with the swordfish, too much olives would have ruined that, but there were just enough to make everything pop. The portions aren't huge, but they are big enough, and once you split a macaroni, which you are more or less required to get here, you're full without being stuffed. Last time I went I also had several of a cocktail they called "the Mile High club". I don't remember all of that was in it, except that there was creme de violet, and it was a beautiful color and tasted great and I could have had two or three more. It's not a cheap night out, but it's also only about $15 or so more than dinner and drinks are at somewhere like Red Room, so that does come into the equation. Oh and Christina G. is right about the bathrooms, they are swank.
(5)Kim W.
Heard a lot about this restaurant before my first visit last week & I wasn't disappointed! Since they don't take reservations we grabbed a cocktail at the bar while waiting for our table - I had the blueberry caipirinha which was very unique & tasty! We ordered three appetizers to start and were so full afterwards that we didn't have room for entrees. Definitely recommend the watermelon salad with avocado and goat cheese - so simple yet so delicious. Also tried the grilled peach and beet salad with burrata which was a perfect summer treat. My least favorite of the three appetizers was the heirloom tomato salad with blue cheese and cornbread, the latter of which was very dry and did not add much to the dish. Even though I said we were too full for entrees, we were able to make a little more room in our stomachs to try the mac & cheese that everyone raves about! After taking a bite into the crunchy, creamy goodness, I can definitely tell why. Very rich so would recommend sharing as a side rather than a main course. Also try to finish it at the restaurant because it is very oily if you try to reheat it the next day! Can't wait to try Ashley Christiansen's other restaurants in the area!
(4)Katharine D.
I want to give this place a better rating, I really do! But my experience was just A-OK due to high prices for foods that were average to just above average. Poole's has a lot going for it- the mac and cheese is PHENOMENAL (be warned: deliciously rich and heavy), and all the sides are shareable among 3 or 4 folks. Pimento cheese appetizer: A+! The ambiance is kind of hip, kind of classy, and quite cozy. The wait staff are spot on and the bartenders mix up some delicious adult beverages. The food ingredients are fresh and mostly local/NC. I ordered the fried green tomatoes and corn soup as my 'entree', both of which were average to above average, particularly the smooth corn that came out cold (as intended)- how fun! That being said, I believe both of these items were overprices for what they were. I swapped some of my meal out with my friend's N.C. catfish entree. Although well prepared and tasty, I'm confident I could recreate the dish in my kitchen for a fraction of the cost. Recap: good food, great service, great atmosphere, not the best prices. I would go back in specific circumstances, such as a friend wanting to experience Poole's, but would prefer to get my money's worth at a different establishment.
(3)Annie A.
Omg, the corn soup and Mac and cheese. The corn soup is so good, it's hard to put into words. And the Mac and cheese, probably the best I've ever had. The fried okra was amazing as well. I took away one star because they weren't super accommodating with my service animal. They asked me for documentation for her before they would seat us. Maybe because I'm from San Francisco, but that just isn't done normally. Once I provided her papers, they sat us at the bar rather than a table.
(4)Abraham L.
Poole's Diner comes across more as a flash in the artisanal pan than a legitimate eating establishment. For all its hype, my numerous experiences here have convinced me that Poole's is managed with all of the foresight of a pop-up store, and with no sign of improvement over time. Some negatives of note: -I recently found a fingernail in my entree. With bite marks and all! I'm not very squeamish; I would understand a hair or an insect, but a fingernail? I can't envision any scenario in which that would be possible in a first-world kitchen. -They have a no-reservations policy. This wouldn't be a problem were it not such a tiny space, guaranteeing that it will always be at capacity. This makes it impossible to plan an evening at Poole's if coming in from out of town. -The prices are unreasonable. I understand the concept of fine dining, but at a joint where the majority of seats are bar stools it is disconcerting to blow your paycheck on a multi-course meal that fails to fill your gullet. I do appreciate that this restaurant makes a point of supporting local farmers, and my meals have for the most part been pleasing to the palette (sans the fingernail). But this is a region with many excellent restaurants, and it is hard for me to understand how a high-priced eatery like Poole's gets away with cutting corners on quality control and customer experience without detriment to its reputation.
(2)Kristy A.
Gotta say -- I don't get it. I really wanted to like this place, but I can't say that I'd go back. It's generally regarded as a must-try in Raleigh and comes courtesy of the well-known Ashley Christensen, so I had high expectations going in. Unfortunately, I found the place pretentious, over-priced, and generally disappointing. The menus -- Chalkboard menus line the walls around the place, but we couldn't see much of anything from our seats. Printed menus are not an option, so we were forced to stand awkwardly over people eating in order to decide. I'm one to sort of dwell on the menu, so this didn't suit me at all. Good thing there weren't a ton of menu options, because I found the process quite uncomfortable. The food -- The portions were fairly small for the prices (particularly our $10 side of broccoli) and although everything tasted good, I really just felt under-whelmed by it all. I will say that the mac and cheese was good and appropriately priced, but certainly not the best I have ever had. The drinks were on the pricey side as well. The website -- I knew abou the chalkboards from reputation and from a prior visit for drinks, so I attempted to do a little research online before going. The menu changes daily so I get the desire to not print menus, but it would be helpful to be able to see it online. No such luck. The service -- Our server was good. She was able to help us narrow down our meal options and made a few helpful suggestions. Overall, I think there are far better places in Raleigh.
(2)Jillian D.
Delicious food, cool atmosphere. My party got the pimento cheese and mac and cheese and both were delicious. Highly recommend it. I just wish there was more seating and we had a long wait time.
(5)Amy W.
Yep, The mac and cheese was a winner. Three of us went and decided to split the lot, we had: -Pate!!!! loved, super smooth and creamy - great, it was not served with enough bread to cover it, but they happily brought us more -Green salad -Short ribs over cabbage with crispy onions - super tender and flavorful -The mac and cheese, of course - a must order - looked like every table had one - 2 desserts a hummingbird cake and a chocolate tart, both good, but for me the weakest part of the meal $150 for the three of us. I wish they would post the daily menu online. Oh and the bathroom is stocked with goodies, tampons, q-tips, floss sticks, cotton balls (not sure why you would need these...but still)
(4)Jessica P.
I understand people don't like certain things. But Poole's has some oddities for reason. Like not taking reservations. Doesn't that make it more special? Don't you feel like royalty when you find a special night where you can walk right in and be seated immediately? (Answer: YES) And have ever been to a "diner" that takes reservations? Or the chalkboard menus. It just defines Poole's character. The wall-menus and curvy bar remind me EXACTLY of the old-school diners we used to frequent in Queens. Love it. Anyways, Poole's needs NO defending from me. I was pretty stoked to pop in probably the most-hyped restaurant in all of Raleigh. Our waitress was so pleasant! I guess they don't really have a cocktail or beer list either. She basically asked us what we liked, and we figured it out from there. I said I love gin and cucumber... and she came back with an awesome cocktail! We just stopped in for "dessert." And for "dessert," we decided to split a mac and cheese (which is listed on the menu as "Macaroni Au Gratin." I have to echo everyone else: this IS the best mac and cheese I have ever had in my life. The burnt-cheese crust was so delicious and the cheese inside was perfectly creamy, making the macaroni simply melt-in-your-mouth. The portion size of this dish is quite generous - I'd say if you got it as an appetizer or side for your table, it could serve 2-4 people. And yes, the bathroom is pretty cool. Can't wait to come back sometime for a full meal....
(5)Mark F.
Consistently excellent. This place has really earned their James Beard award. Kudos to Ashley Christensen. A note: no reservations taken so be prepared to wait a bit--it's worth it. Come early or late for a shorter wait.
(5)Justin J.
This was my first time at Poole's. My wife and I got the roasted chicken and the 10 oz Royale. Both were good dishes, but nothing incredible I would have to go back for. We did split the Mac n cheese after reading how great it was. It was really good! But, it's a different type of taste, so don't expect it to taste like a really good version of something you've had before. It is a bit pricey- expect 16-20 per plate. And expect a very limited menu. It's more "hipster" atmosphere, with only a few things to choose from. Lastly, it is small as others have said. So expect it to be pretty loud, and it's definitely not good for large groups. I'd probably come back, but will go with different expectations and try to find out what's on the menu beforehand.
(3)Andrew W.
You might not be a diner if... -You have side dishes that are over $10 -Your menu consists of ~30% French words -Your cocktail list is more extensive than the food menu -Mood lighting, hipster bartenders, etc, etc Getting over the name, the food was pretty good. The spinach salad and mac + cheese (neither of which are actually called this) were large and delicious. The most expensive item we got, the duck entree, was by far the smallest--and the broth kinda dominated it to the point that it tasted like a Salisbury steak microwave dinner. Still though, everything non-food about this place rubbed me the wrong way. Part of it was my expectation coming in, but the timing didn't help. We showed up at about 4:50 on a Saturday (opens at 5) and were 15th-20th in line. Doors opened at 5 and they took every party's name, only to let us know that seating would begin at 5:30. I don't know if this is a gimmick to get people to buy drinks at the bar or if the kitchen needs extra time to prepare, but I've never seen this (having grown up in a family that shows up ten minutes before places open). The space is generally too small for the place's popularity. We happened to be seated near the front of the restaurant, so we were crowded by people standing around waiting for tables as we waited 30-45 minutes for our food. Overall disappointing for a first trip to a much-hyped restaurant.
(2)Carolyn N.
If we were going to base this review off my dinner it would be 2 stars...but my husband liked his meal so we are meeting in the middle with 3 stars. The menu is written on chalk boards on the wall and the restaurant is very dark....literally I had to get up out of my seat 4 times to see what drink I wanted and what I wanted to order for dinner. Call me lazy but thats annoying...especially when the place is super crowded. I ordered the roasted chicken with yukon potatoes. The chicken was TINY...and it was on the bone so the amount of meat I got was even tinier. It was atop a small scoop of mashed potatoes...that was it. This entree cost me $19!!!! It was all very bland and I could easily have made something better for 1/4 of the price at home. We ordered a side of their gratin mac n cheese....it was creamy and rich and good...but not amazing. I am surprised people rave so much about it. My husband ordered the beef short ribs...they were boneless which he appreciated and he got a small portion as well. He thought the ribs were cooked well and tasty...he was satisfied. I ended up eating the mac n cheese for dinner because my chicken was so bland an unappealing. This place is way over-rated (we were afraid of that). Don't waste your money or time.
(3)steven s.
Very overrated - James beard award????? Ice corn dish was actually a bowl of salt with corn and mushrooms added- green beans were barely cooked and not seasoned at all ( yes I know what blanched means) serving sautéed squash and zucchini under a soft shell crab is outdated and lazy - the small potatoes were almost not cooked in middle - will not be back- why do people in the triangle settle for mediocrity and act like its top of the line ???
(1)Timothy M.
I don't eat out often but when I do, it's usually for the experience. I liked the atmosphere but it's a bit loud. The menu is written on the wall, so I would recommend deciding what you want before you sit down, so you won't have to get up and stand in the middle of the restaurant until you figure it out. The service is good and our server was very polite and friendly. This is the second time I have taken an out-of-town friend and walked away disappointed by the quality of the food. The last time there was over six months ago, I honestly don't remember what we ordered, but do remember walking away discussing how the food was very fair at best. I had forgotten about that experience, until after eating there last night. I ordered the chicken and can best describe it as over-cooked. It kind of tasted like it came off a George-Forman Grill. I've read that they source their chicken locally, that's what I buy when I cook at home, so it makes sense that they started with a good product. It came with mashed potatoes and gravy which also was nothing special, especially considering the price. I've had the Mac-and-cheese in the past and don't understand the rave about it. I thought the old Porter's Tavern was a better deal and the food much better. I won't be going back until I forget about this experience and I won't recommend this place again.
(2)Matt H.
Probably the best brunch I have ever had. Someone took me there on a Saturday after moving a bunch of equipment, and I was blown away.
(5)Morgan M.
Just ate here for our anniversary dinner. Food was amazing as always! Hubby got a pulled pork dish with ricotta gnocchi and a lemon broth. He about licked the dish it was so good. I got the roasted chicken with yukon mash. Delish! Of course we also complimented woth the mac-n-cheese. So good you would punch a baby for it. Lpve this place, always worth it and never a disappointment.
(5)Laura F.
I love the food here! Rule: Always get the macaroni & cheese. I usually go for brunch, so we had to have a plan for our Friday night dinner: 1. Arrive right at 5:00pm to get on the 5:30p seating list (party of six) and get a seat at the bar to enjoy a creative cocktail. 2. Score a great corner table in the back of the restaurant. 3. Order good wine at reasonable prices. 4. Three apps for the table to share (the tuna carpaccio was great!) 5. Entrees for everyone with shared sides (mac & chz is mandatory and my halibut was perfect!) 6. No room for dessert 7. Plan to spend at least $50 per person Sorry about all of the whiners who complain about "no reservations policy, too noisy, over-hyped" - I love this place and I highly recommend it - fun and delicious!
(4)Liv J.
This place is AMAZING!!!!! Went here last weekend with my mom who was in from out of town and my boyfriend. We shared 3 appetizers, 3 sides, and 2 entrees. Everything was incredible, fresh, and unique. All of the flavors were simply decadent. It was apparent by how fresh and perfectly ripened ingredients were such as tomatoes and kale, that they really do care about what goes into their dishes. The atmosphere is a little loud and a little tight, but understandable given they are working with a pre-existing space from circa 1960. We loved the serpentine lunch counter, it truly added to the ambience. They don't take reservations, fine, just get there early or plan to wait a little while. And this place isn't exactly ideal for large parties. Other than that, this place rocks and we will definitely be back soon!
(5)Andrew W.
Poole's is widely considered THEE best or one of the best restaurants in Raleigh. It is one of my favorites too - but I generally avoid it on weekends unless I am eating before 7 or after 9 due to the lines. Like all of Ashley Christensen's (AC) restaurants, you can't make reservations. This is because she doesn't want the restaurants to become exclusive. I'm ok with that, but I wish they would take reservations for large parties. I would like to take my parents there someday, but they would not like waiting that long. If you're going to eat at Poole's, you should do it right. Make sure to order at least one appetizer per two people. Make sure you get at least one portion of the mac & cheese. The cocktail and beer menus are generally pretty good - the Trappist Rochefort 10 beer is one of my faves (10 = 10% abv). Your bill will probably be ~$50 per person, which is a little pricey but usually worth it. The menus are written on chalkboards on the wall, so you usually have to get out of your seat to make a decision. Some of the dishes can be rather experimental (e.g. rabbit), but don't be shy because they are all delicious! One of the cheapest options on the menu is the "The Royale" (a burger, a la Pulp Fiction). I think Poole's has an elevated reputation due to word-of-mouth and The Food Network, but I would consider it a must-try in Raleigh.
(5)Heidi Y.
Simply put... Amazing! The drinks are strong and the service is great! The food is absolutely superb!!!! The Mac and cheese is a popular dish and for good reason it's fabulous super creamy and cheesy gray combo! I got the yellowtail tuna and it was great no complaints at all very well made! Great place highly recommend!!!! Will for sure eat here again! Definitely a must!!!!
(5)Jason A.
I visited this "diner" based on other Yelp reviews and I must agree that it is AWESOME! It was one of the best meals I've eaten in a very long time. Everything on the menu (chalkboards on the walls) looked very good but I got the special of the day. It was a sirloin burger pan-seared in duck fat atop toasted brioche with smoked Gouda on top. I also shared a side of the Mac-n-cheese with my colleague and it was the second best I've ever eaten. The best was Bern's Steakhouse in Tampa FL.
(5)James L.
Absolutely delicious. I kept it very basic, herb roasted chicken, over mashed potatoes. The fresh baked baguette was also tasty. Apple fritter with cinnamon ice cream topped off a great meal. The service was excellent. It's first come first serve seating.
(5)Lee D.
Quite simply; I love this place. I would truly miss coming here if it ever closed, or I ever moved away from the Triangle (again) . After careful consideration I had to give it 5-stars. Why do I love thee so? Well, let me count the ways: It's simple Southern and local inspired food and yet the meal is sophisticated as anything you would get in any great foodie destination. It's set in a comfortable dining atmosphere, but you can still have fun and sit at the bar to have a 3 course table meal. After all it is a "diner"! In fact I like sitting at the bar; you tend to chat with your neighbors a bit more and see what they're getting too and what they've had they loved. Ambiance is great. Always see a great crowd with different walks of life folks. I certainly can't fault their restaurant music selection too as it sounds like they're streaming from all the music in my iPod. I have to mention that we've always had great waitstaff experiences. Always engaging even when busy and happy to talk to you about the different menu items. I would be remiss without mentioning their drinks menu rocks! They have a great selection of cocktails, wines by the glass or craft beer for sure. I've already gotten in the rut of ordering the same cocktail though when I get there: the Garden & Gun club. Maker's Mark Bourbon, Cointreau, lime and well maybe one or two other things but it's bitter and fantastic. And I appreciate their wines by the glass but specifically I love they have my local brewery favorite: Fullsteam on tap. Mmmm. The staple item on the menu is the Marconi au gratin and it is indeed rich, creamy and awesome. You should get it to share at least...or maybe not share. As to the rest of the food...well the menu changes quite a bit but, but sufficed to say everything I've had has been to my complete satisfaction. Even things I wasn't sure of turned out to be the best part of the dinner for me so be adventurous is a tip I'd share...oh, tips! * Yes, all menu items are on chalk boards scattered throughout the restaurant and depending on where you sit you may not have a great view of it all (starts/main corse/desert/drinks). I got several complements in the restaurant on my good idea for those of us carrying Smart Phones (a la iPhone) as long as you are not obnoxious about it and and respectful to your fellow eating patrons (turn off your flash!) take a picture of the menus so you can look it over at your table all you want, and hey you get a keepsake from your meal too! * Even though it's usually crowded there is ample (free) parking usually across the street just for the restaurant. I noticed some people miss their parking lot and park in the city upper deck parking lot on the corner. * Yes, they don't take reservations for nightly regular dining (although they do for special events) and usually there's a crowd but other than making it back in time for the baby sitter go with plenty of time with the "show" being dinner. And hey, that's what the cocktail menu is for! Have an aperitif (or two) to mellow you out and have a good time while you wait. In my humble opinion, this restaurant marries quite a few good things together extremely well which is why I hold it in such lofty 5-star status. Ultimately it's about the food and Chef Ashley Christensen does it very well. I've never met her but her menu speaks to me as a born and raised Southerner pulling traditional bits of Southern variety foods (think sweet potatoes, brussel sprouts, figs, turnips, pimento cheese, Outer Banks seafood, etc. Eastern NC BBQ) and does very interesting and tasty things with them that I haven't had anywhere else. It's the flavor of the area and being a good localvore I'd be proud to take any out of town visitors here and say: "Hey, here's a great foodie destination of what Raleigh NC has to offer!"
(5)Jesse A.
This place does not in any way deserve the hype. We had rabbit "slick" with rabbit confit, duck fat noodles, butter beans, and carrot-castelvetrano that was excellent. The Mac Au Gratin was fine, but it is impossible to ruin noodles and cheese. The Pork Cheek Chili Relleno was the worst dish I have ever tasted from a so-called "good restaurant" - the relleno itself was the texture of a waterlogged shoe and the Entire dish tasted like spicy poblano pepper; a waste of pork. The beet salad was medium to bad. Contrary to the opinion of the James Beard folks and several other Yelp reviewers, Christensen is NOT a genius. This food is fatty, rich, overwrought and disgusting. (We both have stomachaches.) These are "gourmet" riffs on not very interesting (or gross) foods. The vibe in this place is terrible. The menus are on chalkboards on the walls and are difficult to read - partially because you have to stand over other patrons while reading them. So, you have to get up from your seat, stand over someone's table and meal in order to choose your foods. And, it is super loud. The wine list is mediocre and very expensive (I worked in wine for many years and I know what restaurant markups tend to look like). The staff and service was excellent.
(1)Kat R.
Best damn restaurant in Raleigh. Hands down. My husband and I have dinner there every birthday/Valentine's Day/whatever we're celebrating...always at Poole's. We get the mac and cheese every time, and we also get an appetizer and an entree each. We love the atmosphere. We love the wait staff. We've never had a bad meal there. It really doesn't matter what you get. (But make sure you get the mac and cheese.) So much love for Poole's. We've since moved to San Francisco and have yet to find a restaurant in the city that we love as much as we love Poole's. It's one of the things I miss most about Raleigh. xo
(5)Laura P.
Yelper Ben Y. and I had a hankering for mac and cheese while visiting North Carolina. Ben, resident expert on mac and cheese, discovered some reviews on Poole's that said it had the best mac and cheese around. Obviously we had to go. It. Was. Packed. And when I say packed, I mean it. There was no where to stand or sit or exist. We squeezed in to leave our names with the hostess, left and came back an hour later. We were seated soon after we returned to the sardine-can of a place. But WOW, the wait was so, so worth it. On my list of top mac and cheese dishes, Poole's ranks number three, which is really great. It was amazing. It was baked in a large dish so the cheese on top was crispy and browned. The inside was so creamy and delicious... wowzers!! Ben and I were only there for the mac but the drink menu was extensive. We didn't even look at the menu to see anything else but from what we could see around us, there were other good dishes to choose from! Final note: GET THE MAC AND CHEESE.
(5)Chelsey S.
I thought it was very over rated. Spent $70 on a dinner where the bar patrons butts were in our face the entire time. entree was very small. The only thing that's was large was the mac n cheese which just tasted like mac n cheese to me. Service was outstanding. But won't be back. I really don't understand all the hype. Way better places for the money.
(3)Hollyanne F.
I just visited Raleigh for the first time last week, and am so happy that I made a point to eat at Poole's. I was choosing between here and Beasley's for dinner on this particular night, and although I've heard great things about both, am so happy that I chose here. This place is very popular and crowded, so come early if you can! I had the advantage of coming alone, so was able to nab a seat at their diner-style counter right away at 6:30, but several parties were waiting in the lobby and outside (though it did seem popular to grab a drink while waiting, which makes it bearable). Service at the counter was great. They have a great beer, wine and cocktail list - I found it hard to choose, but went the cocktail route and had a Cucumber Rickey. It was light and refreshing, but not overly ice-y or watered down. Their food menus are listed across several different chalkboards throughout the relatively small dining room - appetizers and salads on one, main courses and sides on another. Menus change daily but it sounds like there are some standbys (e.g., the mac and cheese). I wish I'd been here with more people, as I would have loved to have tried an appetizer, an entree, AND a side, as literally everything on the menu that night sounded amazing. I decided on an entree - the pastrami'ed short rib with lobster and fingerling potato salad with buttermilk and terragon. Short ribs and lobster are two of my favorite foods, and also two things I don't get to eat super often, so it was a smart choice. The dish was incredible - two extremely tender short ribs served with an amazing sauce, accompanied by a cold lobster-potato salad that cut the richness of the ribs perfectly. Not usually a huge potato salad fan, but this wasn't overly mayo-y and instead was the perfect creaminess but still light. The portion size was just right - I got enough to eat but wasn't overly stuffed. The dessert options all sounded wonderful, but my tolerance for dining alone was dwindling at this point, so didn't try any. Overall, an amazing experience at Poole's - great service, neat atmosphere, amazing food and cocktail - so glad I went! Looking forward to visiting other AC restaurants if I come back someday!
(5)Dan P.
Excellent food. Come early or you will be waiting for a seat. Awesome Mac and Cheese. Salad was amazing with shaved Parmesan cheese delicious dressing. Wanted to try everything on the menu. Will return next time in Raleigh.
(5)Hannah P.
I'm not really sure what the rave is about. Took an hour to be seated which was fine, but took an hour and a half between seating and the food to come out. Food was okay, nothing too special. People rave about the mac and cheese here but it was just okay for me. Waitress was nice though.
(3)Rich H.
Really good restaurant in downtown. Parking is easy and plentiful. As with other reviews, the place is a bit noisy and crowded which is partially why they get a 4 instead of 5. Arrived about 8 on Saturday night and had to wait about 30 minutes, which is not awful for a Saturday night. Now for the food: yes you MUST get the mac and cheese. A good deal of hype and it lived up to it. I had the lamb and my girlfriend had the tile fish. Both were excellent, taste a 5, serving size was a 4. Could have used a bit more lamb for the price. They also have an excellent wine selection , but not much in the way of beers, so be prepared to pay for your liquor.
(4)Dave H.
Poole's Downtown Diner Raleigh NC. Okay this can be a problem with doing food reviews often I am only able to dine at a restaurant once to form an opinion do to time constraints. Very rarely do I get a second chance to validate an opinion while dining at an establishment once. Poole's Downtown Diner is a place for I wish to return. Chef Proprietor Ashley Christensen sure knows what she is doing to evoke such a resonance with me wanting to come back. Chef Christensen in 2014, was awarded the James Beard Award for "Best Chef: Southeast." which is no small feat considering such a depth of talent in the region. According to Chef Christensen biography from Poole's web site "She is an active member of the Southern Foodways Alliance and founded the biannual event Stir the Pot, in which she hosts visiting chefs in Raleigh to raise funds for the SFA's documentary initiatives. Ashley's work has gained national attention from such publications as Bon Appétit, Gourmet, The New York Times, Southern Living and Garden & Gun. She has appeared on Food Network's popular series Iron Chef America and MSNBC's Your Business. " Let's eat. Poole's Downtown Diner is my kinda place, quirky but, not fake, irreverent but, not rude, celebratory but, not silly, energetic but, not manic, creative but, not trendy, generous with out being gluttonous, great choices with out being overwhelming. Poole's offers locally grown, seasonal ingredients and French-influenced technique. A full bar with a generous beer and wine selection. Chef Christensen and her talented staff where able to provide creative spins with their food without alienating their guess. My wife and I shared a shaved Brussels Sprout salad with shaved Parisian Cheese with pomegranate seeds and light vinaigrette with a slight but, pleasant smokey flavor. Tempting crisp light but, balanced flavors was a great place to start. My wife wanted something more hardy for diner that night ( it was cold and rainy that night in January ) and had a rabbit pot pie seasoned truffles, seasonal vegetables, and topped off with might be the best buttermilk biscuit either one of us ever had. I was glad to see that there where many veg friendly options but, I had settled for the fresh vegetable plate as an off menu option and is subject to change do to availability and seasonal selections. These can be prepared as vegan options depending on the guess dietary needs. Thankfully I am not a vegan and was able to enjoy a selection of great well prepared vegetables. But, the highlight of the vegetable plate was a cauliflower done with cream, mushrooms and sherry. Not appealing ? Well then you truly don't know what you are missing. Like as I stated earlier time was a factor and unfortunately was not able to enjoy dessert on this visit but, next time when we return I will make sure I leave room.
(4)Maria J.
The food here is amazing. Make sure you're willing to wait, there's always a line for dinner. It's worth it though. Everything is cooked to perfection and the drinks are quite good as well.
(4)Hannah E.
I was very disappointed with poole's. Portions are VERY small- paid $25 for a lobster and dumplings entree with maybe 5 inches of lobster? I also ordered a British navy, which was alright but seemed watery to an extent. I will say the Mac n cheese is phenomenal, easily the best part of my meal. I also don't like how they do not have menus for you to look at; walking to the bar area and staring at the menu is uncomfortable. I would definitely go again if they had more reasonable pricing and a more relaxed atmosphere.
(2)Jason J.
If you're a hipster and you're looking for a job, I recommend applying at Poole's. They clearly employ their fair share. What they also employ are fast, courteous, polite and friendly servers. In Raleigh for work, based on the recommendation of a coworker (and fellow Yelper, Brittany F.) I went with a few other out-of-towners to Poole's. The decor is very retro chic, styled like a real old diner. A curved bar, 50s feeling bar stools, and a bar behind which I wouldn't have been surprised to see a couple old-school soda fountains. Their menu isn't so much a menu as it's a chalkboard upon which free-flowing food & drink porn is displayed. It allows Poole's to keep their menu fresh, malleable, and adds a lot to the decor. Poole's gets pretty loud, it was difficult for the four of us to talk at a reasonable volume, but that only detracted slightly. I had a rabbit confit, which was absolutely do die for. Done with white beans, collards, and risotto, it was moist, flavorful and incredibly satisfying. I also stole a few bites of a coworkers mac & cheese (the burnt bits are always the best) and had to practice an excessive amount of self-restraint to keep myself from ending up in a cheese-induced coma. Prices ended up being great (thanks: my employer!) the service was excellent, but it was the food that makes me want to go back. Until next time, Poole's!
(4)Michael E.
I liked my meal here quite a bit, but it was a little bizzare that everyone only ordered the mac and cheese (of the tables around us). I mean, it was hood, but there is other stuff on the menu.
(4)Charlene G.
I finally, finally, finally got to go to Poole's. Now, I've been twice in the last month- both times for work. In both cases, I was very happy w/ the meal and glad to bring out of town/country guests to such a cool, local, southern influenced place. Pros: Love the bar- only sat there for one drink though Food- yep, it sure lived up to it's reputation, with one minor exception Location/parking- easy, peasy, lemon squeezy Atmostphere- get's a little loud-ish, but I'm pretty sure our party gave more than it's fair share of contribution there though so, all in all it's a great environment to hang out and enjoy your meal. Service- very, very good. period. excellent input on questions/recommendations, attentive w/out being pushy. no rushing. top notch basically. What we ordered: pimento cheese plate- YUM chicken liver pate- the BEST ever summer pickle plate - delicious mac and cheese- very rich, so much so, that I took home leftovers (which is very unusual) scallops- top notch, favorite of at least three other diners (and picky ones too) rabbit confit- wonderful, filling and flavorful Chicken saltimboca - meh.. this was the one miss, I think Rabbit boudin - very tasty little treats veggie plate- huge, but tasty. Always appreciate a place that can pull together a nice dish of veggies, but it was just a plate of veggies royale w/ cheese- very good, unique, and was gobbled up completely We didn't order dessert because our friends always want to check out the Hot Now sign at Krispy Kreme, but I'll definitely be back to try those things out Things I didn't love: Menu- it's hard to read and awkward to stand by/over someone eating their meal. I know it's their schtick (used at beasley's too), but I don't like it. No reservations- this I actually DO like.. but.... if you can't get there super early, you have no idea if you can get a larger party (6-8) in at any reasonable time to eat. We ended up arriving at 5:30, which is cool for work, but not really practical if you wanted to hang w/ a group of friends.
(4)Lori R.
Had my first Poole's experience last Tuesday night. Picked up Stepson, who is a cook and culinary student from Minneapolis at the airport, and Poole's was his first restaurant request of the trip. We headed downtown, parked in Poole's lot, which is conveniently right across from the restaurant, and were seated in a booth near the kitchen. We really liked the guy who waited on us. Found him to be very helpful (for instance, he let me try a couple wines, and the second was ding ding ding, spot on!) I didn't want to ask how much it was though, so I sure didn't order a second glass later, not knowing how pricey it might be. Was happy to find it was just eight bucks. As much as I love a fresh daily menu, I'd rather have a simple printed sheet to look at. The boards are hard to see, and it is awkward trying to read them with people sitting in front of them. This is where the good server comes in, since we could ask him anything and he knew the answer. His description of the open-faced burger sold both Husband and myself on it. Stepson went for a rabbit dish. Having heard about the mac n cheese, we ordered it to share. The burger is a round globe, on top of a piece of bread that I believe was cooked in duck fat (or something like that). It was topped with a very strong cheese, that was slightly too strong for me. One of the appeals of the dish was the shallot/au jus that was to be served with it. It comes in a small pitcher that you pour over it. Would have loved it if there had been actual pieces of shallot in it, as something with a bit of a texture to it would have added to the richness of this dish. Halfway through, I was done, and really wishing we'd ordered the green beans in sherry that had been on the board. Adding to the richness of the meal was the incredible mac n cheese. The browned top put it well, over the top! I would have been happy with just that and a veggie. Husband loved his burger and the mac n cheese. Stepson really enjoyed his rabbit. Presentation was surprisingly simple though. I can't remember everything in it, but there were greens of some kind and beans. It was a small enough serving that he was able to eat the other half of my burger, as well as a good third of the mac n cheese. I will say that this restaurant is LOUD. It is almost impossible to carry on a conversation. As for prices...it is quite pricey, but you're paying for quality. Fortunately, you GET quality.
(4)Faith M.
My son recently moved to Raleigh and was told this was a not to miss place. I came for the weekend and we had a great time. I am so glad we read the reviews about getting there right when they open. We arrived a little before 5:00 and got right in and seated at the bar and had a drink. Fabulous cocktails. We were seated at 5:30 and the place was packed!!! The mac and cheese was out of this world as was everything we had. It is a fun, quirky place. It IS very loud.
(5)Jenna E.
Ashley's restaurants will not disappoint you. I finally got to try Poole's tonight and it was what I expected - fresh, seasonal, simplistic and flavorful. Everything we had was fantastic. Poole's reminded me of Highland Avenue in Hickory, NC or vise versa. I only wish the drinks were cheaper!!
(4)Katie W.
So good! Do it! Only had the chicken and Mac and cheese, but I want to try more now. It was busy but we were able to sit at the diner bar area immediately.
(5)Bill A.
This place has been on my list for a long time, and my wife and I finally checked it out last week. I have to say that I agree with a lot of the reviews: great food, but definitely not worth the price tag. We loved the atmosphere: Poole's used to be a more "traditional" diner a long time ago and the atmosphere is still very similar. Great music and pretty friendly employees. The food was really good: I had a crab cake (singular) for $22, my wife had a chicken & pancetta dish for $20, we split the Mac & Cheese ($10) and we each had a drink. It proved to be a decent amount of food, but I can't get over the nearly $100 for that amount of food. For the money, there are more interesting & unique menus in Raleigh. It's definitely worth a try, but not necessarily a repeat visit.
(3)Lauren R.
I almost wrote a three-word review: macaroni and cheese. But I decided to elaborate. I'm new to Raleigh, and I haven't gotten to try a lot of the restaurants downtown. So when a friend who loves food came to visit, I wasn't quite sure what to do. But I settled on Poole's because it was the one place that the foodies I know had almost unanimously suggested I had to try. I honestly expected to be disappointed, because most of the "must-try" restaurants I've ever been to haven't lived up to their reputation (that's why almost all of my two-star reviews and many of my three-star reviews start out with "disappointed"). But, Poole's Diner did anything but disappoint. I was shocked that it was so packed at 8:00pm on a Wednesday (I knew it would be very hard to get a table on a weekend--but a Wednesday? in Raleigh?). it felt really urban--once you step in the door, you could be in any large city in America. It had a great vibe--a good mix of young couples, 30-something friends, and older patrons. After about 10 minutes, we finally made our way up to the bar to try the blackberry sangria. It was okay--I was expecting some real fruit, so I was a bit disappointed. I will stick to beer or wine next time. This was the most awkward part of the night--because there is so much bar seating, it was took a lot of effort to find a place to order without falling all over people trying to eat dinner. After about 30 minutes we were seated (by that time there were open spots--so note, seems like between 8:30 and 9 on a weeknight is the time to go). We weren't very hungry, so we split the macaroni and cheese and each ordered a salad. The macaroni and cheese was wonderful. It was really flavorful (sometimes mac and cheese can be rich/creamy but flavorless, and this was anything but--you could taste the different types of quality cheeses). It was even good heated up the next day--and most of the time leftover macaroni just isn't. Our salads were also quite good--I tried both of them. I know the menu changes often so I won't go into details. One caution--it was very loud I'll accept loud for a great vibe and lively atmosphere any day, but I can see how it wouldn't be appropriate for some occasions. Bottom line: I'm so excited I found this place. I want to go back often to try items on the changing menu (I could have ordered anything I saw written on the chalk boards). And, it will be my new go-to to impress out-of-town guests with the Raleigh food scene!
(5)Marianna C.
Excellent food, good portion sizes, great options at the bar (craft beer, fancy wine, and interesting cocktails)! It can be a little pricy though! And you must get there early to avoid the crowd! Definitely a piece of Raleigh history that everyone should try!
(4)Michelle K.
I came here for a geriatric dinner at 5:30 on a Sat to avoid the wait and still was only able to get seated at the counter for 3. Filled up very quickly thereafter with people already waiting at 6 pm, so I'd recommend coming early if you're like me and don't enjoy watching other people eat the food you so desperately want to put in your mouth for 45 minutes. Yes, it's crowded. And yes, you will probably have to use your "outdoor" voice. but hey! you get to shout to your dining partner how delicious the mac n' cheese is and that's worth it for me. I didn't see prices on the website and I'm the type that likes to know how much hurting my wallet is in for, so here's what I got to try and prices to give you folks a rough estimate: soft shell crab (entree) - 22 braised rib (entree) - 19 pork chop (entree) - 20 mac n' cheese (side) - 10 tomato/cornbread/chevre appetizer - 11 beet salad appetizer - 9ish? Really enjoyed everything I ate. The portions are small compared to the average restaurant, and maybe what you'd expect for the prices, but it was plenty for me!
(4)Doug D.
We sat at the bar on Sunday evening. Was so excited to try this place. I liked the "vibe" of the restaurant with the diner feel. To start, I had the arugula and roasted beet salad which was delicious. Then I ordered the "crispy" soft shell crab which is where I was disappointed. "Crispy" was misleading in my opinion. This was full - on deep fried and mostly breaded exoskeleton. I asked the server/bartender to describe it a bit, but she could only offer that it was a favorite. I'm not a fan of deep fried breading, so I put most of it on a side plate which was the majority of my meal. The server never asked how it was which was surprising since it was clear it didn't go over well. Between 2 of us, mac/cheese, arugula & beet salad, sautéed kale, DEEP FRIED soft shell crab, and 3 glasses of wine was $110 before gratuity. A bit steep for what it was. Glad we tried it, but not likely to return.
(3)Rachel C.
Worth the wait! Visiting from out of town we popped in for dinner on a Thursday. The meal was awesome. We shared the arugula and apple salad. Great combination of flavors with bleu cheese. I ordered a few sides and the waitress offered the veggie plate which simply put was amazing. The two others I was with had chicken and spare ribs and raved about their meals. The highlight of the meal was the Mac and cheese. We all agreed it was the best we had ever had- and the size- get it to share. Great beer, drink and wine selection too- but the Mac and cheese took the prize. Would go back just for that.
(5)Lauren C.
I recently had dinner here with a friend who I forgot was a vegetarian when I suggested this place. She asked the server for a suggestion and was able to find something that was enticing to her. We had delicious cocktails and a wonderful dinner and I was so happy that we were both able to find something we wanted to eat. Poole's is almost always on my list of suggestions when I have someone visiting from out of town and now I can say with confidence that it's great for everyone- Even vegetarians.
(4)Kyle S.
Me and my brother and sister-in-law brought my mum to here last night for her birthday dinner, it was a rainy Wednesday and it was relatively quiet, at least for Poole's. We agreed to meet at 6:30 PM, but me and my mum went at 6:00 PM to secure a seat, we told the hostess are party was set to arrive at 6:30 and we would enjoy a drink at the bar until then. When 6:30 arrived we awaited for the hostess to seat us - just as agreed, instead we had to track her down and we commented that we had been "put down" for 6:30 and asked to be seated. She exclaimed that: 1) They don't take reservations. Seriously, I just spoke to you 30 minutes ago.. we got there at 6 and asked if we could be seated at 6:30 and you - yes you the same person I talked to 30 minutes ago obliged. 2) She would not seat us until our full party had arrived. Really.. Ok, ok, I can understand that the place is small, but the only seats that were available were 4 person tables, what difference does it make that we claim a 4 person table as a 2 person party and then wait for the other 2 in our party or if we claim a 4 person table as a 4 person party? Really!? Lame. Either way, the other 2 in our party arrived within 5 minutes time and we were promptly seated, again after tracking down the hostess which leads me to believe their was ABSOLUTELY no reason we should have even came early, even spent money at the bar. Slightly annoyed, partially enraged we were seated, on to the food. We ordered 2 arugula salads and split them amongst the group. Delicious, granny smith apples, candied pecans and gorgonzola with a great zesty vinaigrette, we also ordered the pimento with crustini appetizer and it was a very tasty pimento. It was slightly "herby" and had a nice overall flavor, probably some of the best pimento I've had. On to the main course. My brother and sister-in-law split the crispy catfish and pickeled beets and he exclaimed it was fantastic, my mother ordered the royale and loved it - it's a bit interesting a huge burger on a thick piece of texas "looking" toast and au jus - it was fantastic (albiet overpriced), but very flavorful overall, and finally I ordered the rosemary chicken, the chicken was decent, slightly bland but the skin was a good crispiness level. The mashed yukons that were served with it were delicious, although a bit overly salted - and the broth, oh the broth was heavenly. We also ordered the mac and cheese and a side of the brussel sprouts with mushrooms. The mac and cheese was slightly salty but overall very good, the brussel sprouts were fantastic, they were doused in a incredible tasting sauce which had characteristics of walnut and pecan. -------- All in all, I find the menu is a bit hit or miss here and I think things are a bit overpriced. But I'm a bit neutral on the pricing since they're using local ingredients and supporting local farmers, though. The service was remarkable, my water glass was never left empty for more then 20 seconds and the waiter was very attentive throughout the meal. In the end, I'll knock off a star for the ridiculous seating ordeal which I found overly frustrating and a star for the hit or miss menu. I'd probably give this place a 3.5 if I could, but oh well..
(3)Erin R.
You can't go wrong at Poole's! Even with their limited menu everyone can find something they will love! My daughter says the Mac in Cheese Au Gratin is the best she had ever had! I love their apps and their cocktail and wine selection. My husband and I shared the NC trout and Chicken with Yukon potatoes and enjoyed every last bite! I love this restaurant, Ashley Christensen is a genius!!! Can't wait to go back!
(5)Brittany F.
Oh Poole's. I've read about you in Bon Appetit. I've seen your chef/owner on Iron Chef. I've visited your sister restaurants and bars and sung the praises of Ashley Christiansen, all before actually eating with you. And yes, I think you were worth all of that time spent in anticipation (not to mention the hour-long wait on a Friday night!) My friend and I started off with drinks-- she got Fullsteam's Sweet Potato Lager which was delicious and I ordered a Campari Spritzer, made with Campari, St. Germains and soda. It was okay...but I probably wouldn't order it again. I could barely taste the St. Germains and it was over-diluted with the soda. But of course, I came for the food, not the cocktails. All the waiting did give me time to enjoy the interior of the restaurant with tiled ceilings and diner-style seating. We started off with the legendary Macaroni Au Gratin and it did not disappoint--- soooo delicious, especially the crusty bits on the edge of the pot. A must order! For dinner, our party ordered the Royale Burger, Roast Chicken with Mashed Potatoes, the Sea Bass and Short Ribs with Creamy Polenta, in addition to Sweet Potatoes and the Spinach sides. Everything was truly incredible-- my chicken was incredibly moist and the polenta was divine. Seriously delicious, but a bit oversalted. Unfortunately the spinach was so salty it was barely edible. We did love the sweet potatoes though. We ended with Pineapple Upside Down Cake with a Ginger Ice cream--absolutely amazing. Mmm. Everyone was very happy with their selection. Mindblowing? No. But really solid, delicious and simple food in a great atmosphere. Yes, I'm a fan.
(4)M. K.
My visit to Poole's was long overdue. Unlike a handful of reviews I've read, I didn't mind the 'menu on the chalkboard' at all. It's large, and there's a few of them, so I don't think it's awkward by any means. We went on a Friday night around 7 and had to wait about 20 - 30 minutes for a party of 4. There was room at the bar to grab a drink and stand comfortably, so we didn't mind. Well-crafted cocktails, the space is conducive to conversation (though it can be a bit noisy), and the staff were friendly and helpful. Nothing on the menu (as is) is vegan, so I inquired about possible vegan options. The waitress said they'd be more than willing to create a vegan plate for my boyfriend and I. Awesome! It included collards, asparagus, tomatoes and lentils, and new potatoes. Everything was so thoughtfully prepared, TASTY, and filling. It's a cool space, and I'd definitely return.
(4)Becky S.
the prices were outrageous. Mac and cheese was the best bang for your buck. Had the spare ribs and there was only 3 on the plate and the cost $25.
(2)Jason W.
This is a place I really want to like, and I have had good food there, but every time I go it seems to be a hassle. The mac and cheese is great but the prices are crazy. Bottle beer for more than most restaurants charge for draft beer. Limited seating and loud dining. Maybe on a weeknight go early and it will be fine just pricey.
(3)Alex Z.
Excellent food. I didn't try an appetizer, but they sounded pretty good. For an entree I got the pulled pork shank with mustard greens, field peas, ricotta gnocchi, and heirloom tomato relish. Every part was well-prepared and worked well with the dish as a whole. The gnocchi were especially good - airy and light, not dense and doughy as gnocchi can sometimes be. For dessert I got the chocolate cake. I was too close to the front to read the dessert menu on the back wall, and I could only hear about every other word the bartender said in the description, but "chocolate cake" was enough. The cake was moist, the marshmallow filling between the layers was great - flavorful, not too sticky. Great selection of wines, beers, and specialty cocktails at reasonable prices. I wanted to try more, but my stomach was feeling full and my pocket was feeling light - it is quite a bit more expensive than AC's other restaurants. I concur with the other reviewers suggesting arriving early. I got there at 6:30 on a Saturday and it was already packed.
(5)Clarence E.
Yum! Finding a good (great) meal and especially later in the night is a feat. So I'm doubly glad they serve after 10! Cool vibes. Chalk board drink and food menu. Tables and especially the serpentine bar was great way to be part of the experience. Definitely attracts regulars. Food. One of the biggest challenges was picking the one dish. Opted for the scallops and wasn't disappointed. Lots of protein choices but took the seafood path since it was late and a bit lighter fare. Good descriptions and for varied tastes. Time. Need more time in this city to enjoy the offerings. Will need to come back the next time I swing by Raleigh. Getting there. Can't talk about parking like other since I walked there from the office and took the free R-line back to the hotel. Can't beat it.
(5)Marc C.
We've been to Poole's a five or six times over the past few years. As others have mentioned, the food is excellent and the Mac & Cheese is amazing. I like the constantly changing menu and the freshness of the offerings. The drink menu is creative and the wine list, although brief, is usually pretty good. Service is consistently spot on. The staff is well trained, knows the menu and makes some great recommendations. My only complaint is the same one I have at other AC restaurants...they try so hard to be hip that they sacrifice the customer experience. The seating is crowded and the atmosphere is so loud that you can't have a conversation. They do not take reservations so, unless you get their as soon as they open you're left to stand there with a hundred other people stuffed into the bar and wait. Maybe I'm just old and cranky but, this really annoys me...
(4)dave f.
There's a reason this place is only open from 5-10. That's all they need to do to turn what I am assuming is a hefty profit. What a phenomenal place. Some of the best food I have ever tasted. The menu is on the wall, because it changes daily. I hate lines, but would wait an hour for a table, hands down. Expect fresh, local food, excellent customer service, and to walk away fat and happy.
(5)Vanessa P.
Food was really good. I love the concept of the chalk boards being the menu since it changes so often. It is super busy so get there early. The staff is helpful and friendly and I really enjoyed myself.
(5)Jackie T.
Most of the reviews already posted are correct.. It's very loud but very good. We took the advice of others and got there right before 5:00.. there was already a line outside the door. At exactly 5 they opened the doors and ushered us in. We then learned that the kitchen doesn't open until 5:30 so they took our name and party size and we sat at the bar. The drink list was more lengthy than the food menu. We enjoyed a few drinks before being seated at 5:30 in the dining area. Just FYI about 10 min after we sat at the bar, the waiting time became an hour and a half for those walking in. Because of all this, it is not a place I would bring my 2 year old. Service at our table was friendly and prompt. We ordered the pimento cheese appetizer and it did not disappoint. For our entrees, I had the soft shell crab and my husband had the short ribs. We also ordered the side of fried okra. While the food was exceptional, the portion sizes were very small for such a large price tag. 3 small ribs with a potato salad with a few chunks of lobster was $22. My 1 softshell crab with sauteed squash was $24. The side of okra was $8. I feel it was worth it but for someone with a large appetite (like my husband), it was just not enough food. We probably will not re visit Poole's since there are so many other options in downtown Raleigh that do offer a better value but it was definitely a place to enjoy at least once.
(4)Nicole B.
A night in Raleigh North Carolina and found an unassuming and no fuss neighborhood diner, and a little surprise as I sat at the bar looking at this chalk written menu wondering, thinking, how could have so many delicious tasting things in a place that seemed not to fussy and oh so very comfortable. The staff was super attentive made me feel like a local in a matter of seconds. the liver pate was served with small crustini is a side of cherry compost too beautiful mustard and some great pickles the flavor all together was like a little trip to heaven in my mouth. The choices of the local and out-of-state beers was great for the beer lover inside of me I had a nice local saison. For dinner I had the duck confit pot pie a delightfully non heavy treat with a beautiful flaky biscuit on top. The liquor of the pot pie was my favorite part it was hard to put down and not having to have a bread full and every bite was indeed a treat. I felt an appetizer, a good beer and a full entree for under $45 was a perfect night to enjoy a peaceful evening in Raleigh North Carolina.
(5)Joanna D.
The Mac and Cheese was great. Everything else was meh. It was a lot of money for an underwhelming experience. The waitress answered every question with a question. Me: "What do you recommend?" Her: "It depends, what do you like?" Me: "What can you tell me about the Prosecco?" Her: "Do you like sweet wine?" If you don't know, just tell me. Don't ask me questions until I give up. The whole experience was disconnected. If I am in your restaurant, I just want to spend money, and have a good time. All you have to do is make the food good, and the staff engaging. If you do that I'll empty my wallet and tell all my friends about the fabulous meal. Promise.
(3)Amanda H.
The best restaurant in Raleigh, a true foodie experience. Be warned, however, this is not a typical southern "diner" so please please don't go in expecting that. I loved everything about my experience here. From the inconspicuous building, to the vintage U shaped bars, the dim lighting and delicious cocktails.Yes, without a reservation you will have to wait, but you can do so people watching and admiring the innovative southern revival style dishes being offered that evening on the blackboard. The appetizers, small plates and sides are all unreal. The condensed watermelon and avocado salad and enormous Mac n cheese were highlights. Will definitely be back soon!
(5)David S.
Slam dunk. If you are lucky enough for the NC soft shell crab.. Don't look back. Great local beer and a great evolving menus. Gimme a BEET... Yep, beets as an app rock it!
(5)Andrew F.
Absolutely my favorite Raleigh restaurant - no question about it. Emphasis on ingredients, sourcing, technique, plating - everything you want from a high-end place - but still enough humility / down-to-earthiness to list the entire menu on blackboards. Came in for a late-night dinner after the championship game of March Madness, and though we were the only ones in the place that late - the service was attentive / patient / tolerant / charming - just as you would hope. We didn't find a flaw in our dishes - imaginative combinations, beautiful colors - I took a lot of pictures. I recommend you over-order massively - we added extra dishes per course, regretted nothing, and cleaned our plates. Go immediately if you're in the area - the best Raleigh has to offer. I reserve 5 stars for out-of-body experiences, but this one was 4.75 easily.
(4)Christina C.
I LOVE THIS PLACE!!! I'm reserving a 5 star review on the off chance it was a fluke that everything was so amazing!!! Mac & cheese is my favorite food and Poole's did NOT let me down. It was the right balance of cheese to creaminess to noodle. So delicious. We also got the bibb salad and the red drum. Everything was beyond my expectations. I just wish they took reservation so we didn't have to stay for upwards of 40 minutes waiting for a table on a Wednesday night. This won't stop me from coming back though, that's for sure!
(4)Taylor R.
Service here is terrible. I waited in line for a drink for a ridiculous amount of time while the three ladies in front of me simply ordered a glass wine. If you are going to have I minimum wait of an hour and a half then your bar best being on point.
(1)Sonia A.
Long waits meet you at the door. But what's in store is worth it. Like the Macaroni Au Gratin which is enough for two and so delicious.
(4)Nathan P.
This is my favorite of Ashley Christensen's restaurants. It used to be a diner. Now it's not. Sometimes they close without notice for private parties. They don't take reservations. AC apparently loves hard surfaces. Her restaurants are loud. It can be unpleasant trying to talk to your waiter/bartender/date/friend while you order/have a drink/eat. It is expensive by almost any standard. Male staff might be aloof and obnoxious and they might be friendly and accommodating...the obnoxious ones tend to cycle out pretty quick. I haven't had a bad waitress or hostess yet...competent, efficient, funny... The menu is on the wall. Turn off your flash and take a quick picture of it. It makes ordering easier. I've had some wonderful meals here. Surprising. Whimsical...yeah, I said it...whimsical. Satisfying. Delicious... Everything is seasonal and maybe it's sourced locally too...everybody seems to have an opinion about that... ...so I had this salad...a thick, wet slab of perfect ripe watermelon, creamy goat cheese covered with half a thinly sliced avocado and a Vidalia onion dressing...the whole thing liberally confounded with fresh basil leaves... ...surprising and whimsical... ...and tasty and refreshing and right near perfect... I've never been disappointed by an over-priced chicken dish here. Mostly because I understand that no matter how good it is...even if it sat in my lap and tickled my beard and hugged my neck and gave me money for the jukebox I still wouldn't pay $20 for a chicken dish. Thus have I never been fooled by the chicken... I did get fooled by four ounces of $22 crab cake once. Batistella's are better...there's two of them and they cost about $14. ...and they're right damned close to the best crab cakes I ever had. AC's can't touch them with a straight gaffing hook. But I've had some magnificent meals at Poole's. Fish or fowl or fruit - well attended, well-served... Check the NC Symphony's website before you go. On a show night, after the show, the musicians tend to go to Poole's to hang out and the place gets good and crowded... Go after nine in the evening on a week night. I've never had to wait going in there after nine...even on a Friday night one time... ...try the mac and cheese... ...but don't bother trying to re-heat it...it doesn't keep.
(4)Kristian C.
This place is an upscale diner. Don't be deterred by the name, this is really good food, much better than any diner food you have ever had. Great ambiance.
(5)Kyle S.
Best. Mac & cheese. Ever. I don't think that is an exaggeration. My only wish would be that it came in a smaller, cheaper portion or that I had at least one other person dining with me (I was visiting on a business trip), so that I wouldn't have left any behind. It was seriously amazing. I have to admit, I didn't have anything else, other than drinks. The menu appears seasonal, and, therefore, changes from time to time. They have a good beer, wine, and drink selection, but, seriously, the mac & cheese is more than worth the price of admission.
(4)Emily K.
Poole's is my happy place. There is so much to say about this restaurant, but I'll try to keep it brief. The Food - it's feel-good food that touches you down to the soul. The macaroni au gratin is a must for every visit - seriously. The portion is enough for me and my husband to split for dinner, though sometimes we end up taking some home if we also order entrees. I really miss the fried chicken that used to be served there before Beasley's opened, but the roasted chicken that I've had instead is just as good - the gravy/stock served with it is awesome. My husband ordered rabbit tagliatelle one time when it was on special and it was very savory, smoky and delectable. It was my first time tasting rabbit, and ever since then I try to order the special no matter what it is, because I know the dish really *is* special. The Drinks - also really, really good. They have some local brews on tap, and some really interesting bottles, but I'm too scared to venture away from the Dark & Stormy. It's one of the spiciest, gingeriest Dark & Stormy's I've had, and I've had a lot (also try the Dark & Stormy at Fox's Liquor Bar, also owned by Ashley Christensen). The Atmosphere - it's a very small, intimate space, which doesn't work for every restaurant, but I think it does work for this one. They don't take reservations, but if you get there early enough, you can make the early seating. They start seating at 5:30, but the bar opens at 5. When we took my parents-in-law, we got there right at 5 and were the first people there, and enjoyed some drinks and talked until the seating at 5:30. You can also eat at the bar, which can be really fun because you can meet people. It's kind of a tight squeeze, but again, it's an intimate friendly space. Parking - not that much of an issue since you can park in the parking lot across the street. Though I can imagine that it might get crowded on busy nights and/or when there's a show at the Red Hat Amphitheater down the street.
(5)Wendy J.
I have eaten at Poole's several times. This time was a major disappointment. I was thrilled to see Burrata on the menu. What a pitiful serving! Whoever plated it tore it up so bad, you'd never know that it is an amazing delicacy. I've eaten it in NY and DC, this serving was embarrassing. Soft shells was the main course. It was over battered and fried! No! My only soft shell for the year. So sad. Needless to say, I won't be hurrying back. Quality was definitely missing.
(3)Tom W.
The food was great. We were rushed by the staff a bit with no wait at the door. Dinner was great, but the menu was limited although everything is locally sourced. The NC Flounder was delicious. The Mac and Cheese was as good as everyone said it was. Overall I would recommend.
(4)Michael C.
Unless you are stone deaf or work around jet engines, avoid this place. The 50's diner vibe is cute but kitschy, and some of the dishes are pretty tasty. The mac-n-cheese with the egg yolk was luscious. But the noise level is OUT OF CONTROL. You can't hear yourself think, let alone converse with your dinner companions. And the place wasn't even totally full the night we went. It's just not worth the visit. Grossly understaffed, so be prepared to ask 2-3 times for what you actually ordered. And the chef seems to think she walks on water, but what comes out of the kitchen doesn't live up to the hype. Go to Nana's in Durham instead for some great food.
(2)Tori H.
I LOVED Poole's. I have been waiting to come here a LONG time. It was busy on a Thursday night but I didn't have to wait long for a table. Our server was outstanding. I really need to figure out what her name is (brunette with short hair). She was so attentive and patient with my friend and I. We had the pimento cheese appetizer and beets with goat cheese--- so tasty! I had the ribs for my entree. SO TENDER and juicy. The collards (and I don't even like collard greens...) were delicious. I loved the onion straws on this. Also had the mac & cheese....I don't think I need to say how amazing it was. I could have eaten a bucket full. Really enjoyed dinner here--- definitely a hip spot in Raleigh. Oh-- and the bathroom is fabulous...bobby pins, floss, etc...stocked for the ladies! Nice touch. :) Can't wait to return!
(4)Hillary L.
I have been to Poole's several times now and the experience is always the same: long wait, fantastic craft cocktails, delicious food, and almost distractingly loud atmosphere. Fortunately the good always outweighs the bad. The restaurant is like an upscale diner inside, and the diner counter still exists and is the faster option for getting a table, particularly on a weekend night. If you want to be seated in under 1 hour, be the first person there; otherwise expect to wait closer to 1.5-2 hours plus for seating. At least their bar options are great (beer, wine, and as I mentioned, amazing cocktails) and you can bring your drink with you just outside the door while you wait. The food here is always superb. The Mac 'n' Cheese is always the favorite and is HUGE-I've yet to finish it split amongst 4 hungry guests every time I've eaten here. I recommend eating this while it's nice and hot as the creaminess starts to become congealed as it cools off (although the flavor is wonderful no matter what the texture!). The sautéed greens, especially when they have spinach, are some of the best I've ever had; cooked but not soggy or mushy. The portion sizes here are usually big enough that I bring food home and have never had room for dessert (which is amazing considering I love dessert). The biggest disappointment is always the noise level. The tin ceilings may lend an air of trendiness, but causes the noise to reverberate throughout this tiny restaurant to the point you really can't hear your table mates unless you are sitting 2 inches away from them. It's a nuisance that I can deal with enough to still enjoy the food, but I do have friends that won't go back to Poole's just because of this issue. The other thing that really strikes me about Poole's, and why I do rate it highly, is you can see that everyone in the restaurant is working hard & helping each other out. They consistently check glasses for water spots. The hostess helps out with bar dishes if needed. Everyone is friendly & accommodating to the guests. This type of service really stands out nowadays & I feel contributes to Poole's consistency and quality. For a trendy, high-quality dining experience in Raleigh, Poole's is one of the best & you should come here at least once. And every time I eat here it reminds me that I need to try Beasley's Chicken & Honey . . .
(4)Helen A.
The food was different the portions were small I ordered the Macaroni augratin was a little dry and pricy and the shirt ribs were tasty,however the hostess could be a little more personable ., our sever was awesome . I would try again on a slower night.
(4)Justin K.
While in Raleigh we were wondering around looking for a place to eat downtown. Everywhere was packed so we just saw this and thought, it's a diner, whatever we will get whatever. Boy did we make an awesome mistake thinking that this was a standard "diner". When you walk in you quickly realize it is anything but a "diner". Sure, it had the old fashion bar and it was loud but, people were certainly not dressed like they were at a diner. We ended up sitting at the counter which was cool because the bartender/waiter was pretty awesome. There is no menu so you must get up and look at the chalk board menus that are on the wall behind you. I know it seems like a pain but that is pretty old school and I liked it. The menu changes often and is seasonal from my understanding. I also dug the atmosphere, it was dark and lively. I really like restaurants like that. The beer menu here is ok, nothing special but they did have some Stillwater Bottles which is cool to see coming from Baltimore and all. We started with the roasted brussell sprouts salad which had a white vinaigrette, goat cheese, and pomegranate seeds. It was a nice like and fresh starter. For mains we went with the roasted chicken and mashed taters and the short ribs with braised cabbage and a side of mac and cheese. They were both pretty solid dishes, I like the short ribs more because they came topped with fried onions which added a nice crisp element. These dishes alone would have been enough for a solid 4 star review, but here is why I am giving them a 5: The Mac and Cheese. I am not sure what exactly was in this mac and cheese but it was the most mac mack'nist cheese I have ever had. EVER. Hands down. When we started eating it, we felt as though we were being showered with butterfly kisses and fairy dust. It was amazing. I HIGHLY recommend trying that mac and cheese if you come here. It was unbeatable. Besides that everything else made for a great dinner; good service, solid food, great atmosphere and friendly locals to chat up.
(5)Corrine T.
You don't think much when you first walk in. My boyfriend took me here for my birthday last year and I was like "where in the world are we downtown right now" and once we ordered, the food was absolutely divine! So delicious, rich, and definitely worth it. And the waitress (who was amazing as well) brought me a little birthday dessert with a candle! Wonderful touch. Amazing place!
(5)Sasha V.
So can you say the best Mac and Cheese enough to feed like 3-4 ppl amazing doesn't reheat well tho had the open face burger one of the best pieces of cooked meat I've ever had seasoned well cooked medium rare omg I'm hungry just thinking about it and although this place was small and doesn't look like much from the outside it's a rare gem super cute on the inside with amazing sophisticated food with complex flavors without being pretentious you must eat here if your a real foodie !
(4)CityGirlCece F.
Love this place! Let's just say there were NO complaints. Posted a review on our blog: fooddiaryofacitygirl.wor…
(5)Caroline J.
So I wanted to go back to the diner that I went to a couple years ago for Halloween...but I think it's closed? I forgot the name of it so I got it confused with this place. When my boyfriend and I walked in, I knew this place wasn't it. We sat down though and a waitress came by and told us that the menu is on the walls. I don't really like that...it's kind of awkward to just get up and stand near random people's table to see what to order. Good thing the entrees were right next to ours though. Not many choices really. So the food is like traditional food with a modern twist I think. When I saw the prices I asked my bf if he wanted to go someplace else. Sorry, I don't really want to spend $20+ for like meatloaf (which I did do!)...but he wanted to try so we stayed. I said that I hope it's not one of those fancy places that charge you $$$ for like a tiny plate of food. We got the mac n' cheese appetizer, Crab beignets, and Leg of Lamb Meatloaf. So I was happy about the portions. I really really really loved the vegetables that came with both of our meals. It was the best vegetables I've ever tasted in my life. We both really enjoy meat better in general, but for this meal we both agreed it was the best part. If it were solely based on the veggies I'd give Poole's 5 stars. I didn't like my lamb that much, it was just too salty to me...the shape was kinda funny-like cat food from a can. The mac n' cheese was heavy and eh. Whenever I eat food I always compare to other places and I just kept thinking Dame's is better. So again like so many restaurants, my bf liked this place and I thought it was okay..haha.
(3)Stephanie H.
We've lived here since January, 2014. Literally, my only regret since moving has been not coming here MUCH sooner. WHAT WERE WE THINKING!?!?!?!? We went last night (a Thursday around 6:30) for dinner and we were told there was a 20-25 minute wait. My husband went and stood in the drink line, and I went to find a spot to sit and wait. Maybe 15 minutes or so went by, and there was a table for us! I pulled my husband out of line (yes, he stood there for 15 minutes, said only two people before him got drinks) and we went to our table. We sat sort of near the bar - first table behind the opening of the bar entrance. It was intimate but not secluded and we had a fine time conversing - it wasn't overly loud. The menu is listed on the chalkboards, so my husband took a picture of the menu. We settled on starting with the pimento app....DEEEELICIOUS! Wow - that was excellent pimento, very flavorful, and enough for both of us to share. I decided on the crab beignets as my entree and we shared a side of mac & cheese. The crab beignets were life changing. I can't even describe the flavor other than to say it was one of the best meals I've ever had. There were 3 giant heirloom tomato slices with field beans on top - perfectly seasoned and paired so well with the crab beignets. Very fresh tasting meal, perfectly satisfying, and very well executed. I had maybe 2 bites of the mac & cheese because I was full from the appetizer + eating EVERY single bite from my entree. Service was excellent. Our waitress was attentive, she didn't rush us (I'm a slow eater lately with a growing belly baby - running out of room!) and was polite and always there to refill our water glasses. Poole's is my favorite AC restaurant at this point - love the food, love the atmosphere, loved everything!
(5)Anthony P.
Even when I was still living in CA I'd heard about the Mac and Cheese here. In addition, I'd also heard that they do a special burger only on Sunday nights, so I convinced a friend to come out and brave the potential wait to get into this place. The bar at this place opens at 5PM. When you get there, you can put your name down and they'll begin seating at 5:30. We enjoyed a few of their specialty cocktails while we waited to be seated. Once seated, we ordered the chicken liver pate appetizer, the Royale with Cheese, and the Macaroni Au Gratin (Mac and cheese). Chicken Liver Pate - This was amazing. The combination of flavors between the pate, the pickles, and fruit sounded weird, but tasted great! My friend looked at me skeptically, but also gave it a try and liked it as well. Royale with Cheese - I can't help but chuckle at the Pulp Fiction reference when ordering this. - This was more like a giant meatball on a slice of bread. Deliciously cooked in duck fat and came with a serving of au jus to pour over the burger as you ate it. Macaroni Au Gratin - This lives up to the hype, although if you are not a fan of cheeses other than the standard american/cheddar cheeses in your mac and cheese you may not like it. This is called a diner, but it's a little more fancy than that. The waitresses were friendly and checked on us frequently. I'll have to come back to check out the watermelon entree that a lot of other tables were ordering. Go here if you're looking to try creative dishes that changes with the seasons.
(4)Tom C.
Absolutely outstanding in all respects. The service could have used a tiny bit less, I'm cooler than you, vibe but that is a very minor strike vs a ton of home runs. We went for dinner early before a Smashing Pumpkins concert at the amphitheater across the street and every bit of what we ate made it clear the James Beard award on the wall was no joke. Tuna tartare, watermelon avocado and goat cheese salad, mac n cheese, royale "cheese burger", solid house cocktails. Hit after hit after hit. Raleigh has a true jewel in Poole's.
(5)Bon V.
Just the best. My favorite place. If you are a local or are visiting the Triangle, please make a point to get here. Great service, fresh ingredients. Great spot. My full review is at bonvagrant.com/#/poole
(5)Peter D.
Great beer selection and food is eclectic but well done. Had the Mother Earth dunkel lager and the heirloom tomato salad. The salad was one of the best tomato salads I've had- great balance of acidity, salt and sweet between the tomatoes, bleu cheese and grilled corn bread. Tough to get a table but well worth it
(5)liza l.
I've been here several times. Great wine and food. Tuna appetizer, Mac and cheese were outstanding - so good. Lamb meatloaf ok. Atmosphere is an issue. At 6 pm every time I've come the sun is blinding if you happen to be the one facing the front door. If the walls were white the contrast wouldn't be as much an issue. They are shiny black. My eyes are confused. And the noise is deafening. Loud conversation is ok x10 with loud music pounding. The food is great though.
(2)Michael U.
Items Selected: Hook's 3-Year Pimento Cheese with Crostini Macaroni au Grautin Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Honey and Thyme Lobster & Dumplings - Potato Gnocchi, Stewed Tomatoes, Butter Beans, Ginger Butter Lime Madeline Cake with Roasted Pineapple and Coconut Cream Exiting Beasley's with full bellies and snow now blowing in the street it was much to my mother's dismay that I suggested a visit to Poole's Downtown Diner was non-negotiable considering our otherwise packed dining agenda, and although the roads were a bit slick while ordering was limited the visit turned out to be largely worth the effort - particularly as nearly every place in town was closed the following day causing us to miss out on two previously planned meals. Open since 2007, and consistently one of the city's most jammed-packed and desirable dining destinations, it was just after 8pm that we stepped through the walk-in-only space's doors and finding the Christmas-light strewn room no more than one-quarter filled a sizable four-top was offered halfway between bar and kitchen, our lovely young server briefly highlighting the chalkboard menu before leaving us to make tough decisions, an eventual order of one appetizer, two sides, and a main slowly trickling forth from the kitchen as per our request. Treated to sounds of the late 60s and 70s while we waited for our food and perused the room, suffice it to say that the 'diner' layout and lack of fanciful flatware is really the only indication that Poole's is truly a 'diner' and with a menu decorated in several luxury ingredients the first bites of the evening were enjoyed in the form of Hook's 3-year Cheddar converted to sharp pimento spread served alongside copious crostini, each bite offering plenty of spice and great texture with a portion easily sharable by a group of four, the 'signature' elbow macaroni baked to golden brown potentially capable of feeding even more considering both the size and richness as tender noodles teamed with several cheeses ranging from surprisingly-sharp to milky-mild. Largely underwhelmed by mains, the majority more 'French brasserie' than upscale southern, it was eventually on the Lobster & Dumplings that we decided and although the crustacean itself was a fine example the broth itself was far too tomato-y while gnocchi 'dumplings' were overcooked and rubbery, the ginger butter and beans helping to prop up an otherwise poorly executed plate outshined by a simple side of roasted sweet potatoes tinged in honey and thyme. Equally uninspired by a dessert menu that struck both of us as far less fun than the quartet tasted at Beasley's it was with good fortune our server immediately suggested the Madeline-cake I'd been eyeing when asked for her opinion and although not particularly "North Carolina" specific in the least both members of the table were taken aback by the warm almond flour base tinged with citrus atop key-lime curd and topped with pineapple chips plus a dollop of reference standard coconut cream - each bite a study in tropical balance, and particularly ironic given the brewing ice storm outside.
(3)Jay R.
The food is worth the wait if you have the time. Unfortunately, we don't. When we go out, there is usually a time that we are allowed to be away, and so Poole's never fits our schedule. Maybe it's a personal thing for me but when a restaurant doesn't allow reservations they are saying to me that their ability to fill a restaurant without a moment's pause is more important than a potential diner. There is an air of haughtiness to a place like this, that could fill a missed reservation in 5 minutes
(4)Joe P.
This wonderful little spot in downtown Raleigh is exactly the sort of innovative addition the City of Oaks needed to move into the ranks of great Southern restaurant towns. My salmon entree was wonderful, served on a bed of fresh vegetables and herbs, and the heaping plate of delicious Mac & Cheese au gratin was too much even to share. The extensive selection of wine, cocktails and local craft beer offer something for every palate, and the service was friendly and quick. The casual, modern decor is inviting and warm, and the chalkboard menu, spanning the length of one wall, is a welcome departure from convention. Poole's Diner is a fabulous addition to Raleigh's restaurant scene, and one I'll be returning to whenever I'm in town!
(4)Anthony G.
Southern food with a flair. Very trendy and happening still, after all these years. Everything here is tasty and makes you feel as if you were born in Raleigh.
(3)Vanesa E.
This dinner was amazing! I work in fine dining in St. Louis, MO. My GM sent me here because he had worked with the owner once so I was already excited before I even got to Raleigh. My boyfriend and I are in a long distance relationship so we always pick one nice place to visit whenever we see each other and just splurge and do one of our favorite things: EAAATTTT! Pros: THE CHILLED CORN SOUP BLEW MY MIND!! Absolutely amazing! It was soup and it was cold but it seemed to capture the BEST parts of just sitting in the backyard, eating grilled corn on the cob... the sweetness with somehow the charred deliciousness... MMM MMM. I ordered the soft shell crab entree. It was a delight since I have never had soft shell crab; it's an experience just biting right through everything. My boyfriend ordered an entree as well and we shared the a la carte mac'n'cheese. You'll get a good amount of food, that's for sure! Cons: Pretty noisy! The layout of the restaurant is a bit inconvenient with a big portion of it taken away by the wavy bar counter and then the remaining tables shoved up against the wall. I felt a weird sensation of it trying to be cozy but slightly missing the mark. I would have liked the server to have had better wine knowledge (at least the By The Glass wines). I appreciated the menus written on the wall, I haven't seen that and it was refreshing but it was still a bit awkward in that space.
(4)Pebbles W.
We have been to Poole's many times. The food is normally tasty and innovative. Any time she has tomatoes on the menu, we order them and have not been disappointed. The mac & cheese is good. The entree portions vary widely and are occasionally disappointing. With that said, the service is sketchy, slow, & often snotty. The bar tenders are busy but have absolutely zero civility skills. The atmosphere is LOUD. The menus on the wall are not at all easy to read and we dislike having people standing over us to read or take a photo of the blackboard. The price point of this restaurant makes you wonder why printed menus & reservations aren't available. We enjoy the food so we return (after forgetting the bad service & atmosphere ) but that won't continue...
(2)William M.
One of a few restaurants in the triangle that I've been to multiple times and would go back again. The oyster tart was incredible - perfectly cooked on a bed of creamed spinach with cherry tomatoes. The rabbit pate is enough to share and very good. The macaroni and cheese is the best I've had in a restaurant and more than enough to share. The beet salad with burrata and pickled pumpkin was amazing. The rabbit pot pie was good with a nice biscuit top but the rabbit and vegetables in the filling was lacking in finesse. The flounder was just ok but the acompanying French lentils were excellent. We enjoyed a kesselstatt Riesling but the Nance that the waitress recommended as a second bottle was a let down. The cocktails all sound great but the British navy I ordered was not memorable. The service was good but there was a bad lapse between bottles of wine since they ran out of the first and dawdled around checking prices and recommending a wine that wasn't on the list. No espresso available- boo! And no room for dessert after some large portions. Will be back for more Southern- French fusion in this fun transformed diner - a bit loud though.
(4)Megan D.
Unfortunately I cannot say I would recommend this place to anyone. Unimpressive and expensive. Cons: Opens at 5 but not seating until 530, is just strange It's a bad idea for menu only on the chalkboard. Hard to see, so everyone came to stand at our table to see it. Way over priced for the quality and quantity received. Worst: all food extremely too salty: crab beignet, Mac and cheese, burger. Pros: accidentally split a beer and they brought a new one on the house
(1)Lindsay H.
Poole's is one of those places where there simply isn't a bad dish. Their Mac and cheese is amazing, but there are also so many innovative dinners to try because the menu changes often. When I went this week I had the duck confit pot pie, which was excellent. My friend had the short ribs, which were unbelievable. We split the cauliflower, which came with oyster mushrooms in a fantastic sauce. Poole's is a Raleigh must-go, but the wait can get very long because it is small (especially if Ashley Christensen is there that night - can be a 2 hour+ wait). If you can go early on a weeknight, I would definitely recommend Poole's for delicious comfort food.
(5)Jeremy A.
This is a great place to take people that are visiting and just get a bucket of macaroni and cheese for everyone to share. We have been a few times now and the food has been stellar everytime. The royale burger which i think they only do on Sundays is fantastic and thats my goto on the menu. The service was great and the prices are a bit steep but its not the type of place you go to all the time unless you're loaded. The cocktail menu is pretty good but not amongst my top places in the city. Parking is free in a lot across the street and just be aware this place doesnt take reservations so youre going to be waiting on a busy night.
(4)Kylee P.
I had my first trip to Poole's last night after hearing rave reviews for so long. My husband and I went as our anniversary dinner, and I will say that even though this is a nice place in terms of the quality of food, the interior is not as much of a romantic date night place. We got there around 6:30 on a Monday so were were able to get a table, but the inside is rather small and loud. There are a lot of bar seats available, and they are made to look like an old school diner setup; hence the name. The menu is on chalkboards all around the restaurant. There were about 5 entree choices and then 5 or so family style sides. Our waiter did ask if this was our first visit, but he did not go into any additional recommendations or details when we said yes. I went for the pork and dumplings and my husband had the crab cakes. The food was outstanding, but overpriced for the amount of meat and the size of the dish; both of ours were around $22 per entree. Mine was more of a soup with meat and gnocci in a delicious tomato based broth along with butterbeans. Everything had a spectacular flavor, but it could have had a bit more meat. My husband's crabcakes came as 2 cakes that definitely were made of high quality crab meat but were not huge. The sauce on top paired perfectly, and it was served alongside roasted squash. We also split the Mac and Cheese for $12 which is definitely big enough for 4 people. We ended up taking half of it home. The mac and cheese has a very sharp taste and is extremely creamy with a crispy topping. It is good, but very rich - a little goes a long ways. I definitely recommend going on a weeknight since they do not take reservations and I could see the weekends having a long wait. Overall, the food is good, but pricey. I felt like I missed out a little on the fine dining experience factor from the atmosphere/lack of server input, but the food was on point. I would go out if someone suggested it and hadn't been, but if I want a fancy dinner out, I will probably check out some other places first. I would give the food a 4 but the experience a 3.
(4)Angela C.
First, the restaurant is a lovely environment; dark and romantic. Its a little loud because the restaurant is on the smaller side, but all the tables are intimate enough to hold good conversation. The bar, where we sat tonight, is curved rather than straight, so again, very intimate. Our waiter was fantastic. My husband wanted to try one of the two draft beers, and he brought us samples of both--which was great because I ended up ordering one as well. My husband had the Teacher's Pet IPA and I had the Ponysaurus Biere de Garde. Both were great choices for the tap. We ordered the macaroni au gratin to split. (Its enough for 4--we took at least half home!) I had the White Sweet Potato and Cheese Tortellini over Braised Short Ribs and Onions and my husband had the Pan Seared Red Snapper. Everything was absolutely fantastic. I can not stress how amazing this macaroni is. All the hype is true--it is cheesy paradise. The short ribs were awesome; they were so tender, and all the flavors meshed well, and tasted well as stand-alones. My husband said his snapper was so tender it practically fell apart when he blew on it. And we have left-overs! Other than being a little bit on the pricier side, I have no complaints. There is even a wide array of emergency supplies in the girls bathroom!!! You HAVE to eat here.
(5)Virginia H.
I've heard so many great things about this place and once Gwyneth Paltrow was in town shooting Iron Man and tweeted about this place, I knew I had to try it. We went right when they opened on a Saturday night and still had to wait to get a table (only 15 minutes or so). We took this time to order a drink at the bar. It is a cool atmosphere but SO TINY. The menu was written up on the walls in chalk because it changes so frequently. We got the mac and cheese, a salad, and Steak Au Poivre (spelling?). All were great (the mac and cheese especially). I recommend going early or late to avoid a long wait. Once again the space inside is small, so if you are waiting on a table, you are probably waiting outside.
(4)JoAnn D.
Excellent food. We started off with the pimento cheese for an appetizer, a great first choice. Then I had the beef short ribs and my husband had the Striped Bass both were delicious. I have been here three times and have never been disappointed. Always great food and great service.
(5)Lace E.
Alright another succinct review: 1. EXPENSIVE. I took my mom and we got salad (doesn't come with the meal), which we split, one appetizer - again, to split, 2 glasses of wine, 2 entrees, and I think a dessert too (because by then I thought, what the hell we've already done enough damage)...which we again split. Ready for this? $140 later I limped out of the place ready to sell my mom to cover dinner. 2. Quality of food: freakin fantastic. Good enough to almost overshadow the fact that you just took out a second mortgage to cover dessert... 3. Service: awesome. 4. Hipster vibe...yeah it's still there, but the professionalism of my server really balanced that out. I love professionalism. She did great even though the new bus boy guy threw away our leftovers within seconds of us leaving the table... (she offered to make me a new entree. She was mortified. God bless 'er)
(4)Sarah M.
It was a last minute decision on my part to go here for dinner last weekend. I didn't know too much about the place or the chef until I walked through the door. The atmosphere is great and I was really appreciate of the lotion and other helpful trinkets in the ladies room! The food was amazing. I don't like cheese but after hearing so many people order it around us, I felt it was worth a try. Shockingly, I really enjoyed the Mac and cheese! I also recommend the herbed pork with white beans. I could not get enough!
(4)Carol S.
Like it, don't love it. So many people rave about this restaurant and how good it is but I can't say I came away being blown away. I don't care for the cramped interior, it makes for a less than enjoyable evening. I understand they seasonally rotate out menus so maybe I just went at an off time for my palette but I know the Mac & Cheese is an old standby there and I can't say I thought it was any better than some others I've had in the area. Definitely go to try out, it is a unique style of place but I wouldn't go with the mindset that you're going to have a very memorable dining experience.
(3)Andy B.
I had high hopes for this trip to Poole's. Unfortunately, I was definitely underwhelmed by my dining experience. Here's the good and the bad. The good: The food was good. Not great, but good. The mac and cheese is certainly worth getting. Just keep in mind it's big enough for 4 adults to share easily. The bad: Super loud - it was hard to carry on a conversation. Super cramped - a booth for 4 people was really too small (my wife did not even have elbow room to cut her chicken). They don't serve sweet tea. Seriously? A diner in the south that doesn't serve sweet tea? They also don't serve fountain drinks. You have to buy each tiny bottle of Coke separately. They have no menus. You have to either crane your neck to look at a blackboard or get up and take a photo of it. The food was super slow to come out. We had just one course and were in there for 75+ minutes. Expensive for what you get. The chicken dish my wife had was about the same as what you can get at Boston Market but for $19. The only thing I can guess as to why it is popular is because it's popular. A trendy place that everyone wants to be seen at.
(2)Brian K.
OMG. I have never been here before but once I arrived I felt at home with the warmth of the interior, the friendly staff and the way the menus were written in the wall. We went with specialty cocktails and a handful of the apps. A must get is the Mac and cheese. An adult version of comfort food and very yummy. Get the early because it gets very busy.
(5)Reggie S.
We've been here three times now. So tonight we went on the later side, 7pm and had a 20 minute wait. None in our party drank so no need to stand at the bar, we sat in the corner. Surprisingly crowded for a Monday night. The menu is seasonal so we expected some changes. I ordered the herbbrined pork chop w heirloom white beans & plum and brandy reduction. My wife ordered the lobster & dumplings. The other couple ordered as we did. The presentation is always superb as Ashley's resturaunts. Tonight though, the taste and temperature were off for the dumpling dishes. My wife stated it was very bland, could've been any fish dish, had it not been for the large chunks of lobster it would've been hard to tell what "seafood" it was. This dish was a flop. The pork chop on the other hand was a HUGE success. Nice char/crust and J-U-I-C-Y!! The plum/brandy reduction with the white beans were a perfect pairing. There were no extras with our meal tonight, (NO BREAD) so I'm not sure of its no longer complimentary or our waiter (Cameron) wasn't on hit game. A couple of sides were ordered, Mac n cheese au gratin and broccoli rabe. Both pretty good. As for the main dishes, 2 standup doubles & two strike outs. Hey, some dishes aren't a hit but it has my wife wondering why her dish always goes wrong. We may give it another try in a couple months as the menu changes again
(3)Cat L.
It's always a great meal at Poole's diner. My husband and I came here after hearing huge hoopla about the Mac n cheese they offer. It is better than what they say. The first time we came we sat at the bar and had a real nice Friday night dinner. Every guest at the bar also had the Mac N cheese dish. The couple next to us was extremely friendly and shared their knowledge of the menu and their suggestions. We have dined there a couple times and have had roasted chicken on a bed of mashed potatoes, lamb chop, ribeye steak with brussels sprouts, a savory apricot tart, and a lettuce piled salad with heaps of parmesan cheese. The dessert was also great with a pudding type dish, topped with a toffee ice cream and biscuits.
(4)Nicole F.
I wasn't as impressed as I thought I would be. Although the selections are uniquely paired, the menu is very limited. The famous Mac &a Cheese au gratin was certainly cheesy, but overly salted. Too much to eat for one person, but worth the attempt!
(3)Amy L.
Finally checked out Poole's for dinner. I'd give it five stars if it were a bit bigger and took reservations, but alas I will leave it at a strong 4. You honestly can't go wrong with Ashley Christensen. The menu fluctuates seasonally, andyou can always count on interesting pairings and that delicious mac & cheese. Be prepared for leftovers because the sides are served family style. I cocktails are unique, and generally strong. I'd recommend this place for date night or dinner/drinks with girlfriends, it's not great for large groups however.
(4)Lisa J.
Well worth the cramped wait! The Mac n cheese is to die for and the service was great. Highly recommend!
(5)Kristin W.
Everything was nice, but a bit shy of spectacular for the price tag. The pork belly was great, the entree plus side and dessert offered a good amount of food to share. While the mac and cheese everyone raves about was good I wish we had tried something more unique and special to the restaurant. The setting sun coming in through the windows was blinding and the place was loud to not be full so lacked ambiance.
(3)Alexis P.
Yum yum and yum! The food here is beyond excellent. I had a fantastic short rib plate that literally fell apart in my mouth. I am drooling just thinking about it! This place is tiny and they don't take reservations so get there early. Also, this place is a bit pricey so expect a $30-$40 meal.
(5)Sam N.
Leg of lamb meatloaf was unbelievable...especially the gravy. The macaroni au gratin was really good, but it wasn't a grand spectacle like I was led to believe.
(4)Mary Rachel A.
You can't beat the Macaroni Au Gratin with a glass of rosé! Perfect stop before or after a concert at Red Hat Amphitheater...just expect a wait if you go before!
(5)Elyse M.
3.5 stars --- Poole's is good but but doesn't quite live up to its hype. If I had gone without any expectations, it would have been great but the rave reviews gave us sky-high expectations that were ultimately not met. We came on a Thursday evening, and luckily (also somewhat shockingly) there was no wait for a table. There were actually several tables that remained empty the entire time we were there, and my friend commented that this was the emptiest he had ever seen the restaurant. Our group of 3 ordered several appetizers and sides to share and then each ordered an entree. Appetizers and sides: For the table, we ordered the sweet corn salad, famous mac and cheese, pimento cheese, and fried okra. The clear standout was the sweet corn salad with several types of sweet white corn. Very savory, but much less creamy than creamed corn. Sweet, but not too sweet. This stuff was delicious!! Highly recommend it! The mac and cheese was also quite good, although not the best I've ever had. (I order mac and cheese any time I can get it so I have a lot to compare it to.) It was very hearty, very rich, and huge. It was too rich for me to have more than a few bites, so I definitely recommend sharing it amongst a group. There is more than enough for everyone! The pimento cheese was certainly tasty but not amazing. My dining companions really enjoyed the fried okra, which tasted very fresh underneath the breading and came with a creamy dipping sauce. It was also not greasy at all, which is apparently very hard to achieve when frying okra. Like the pimento cheese, I thought the fried okra was good but not vastly different from any other fried okra I've had. Entrees: I ordered the pork dumplings. Since I'd mostly filled up on the appetizers and sides, I only had a room for a few bites of my pork dumplings. They were very flavorful, and the flavors went well together. It was actually even better reheated the following day. My husband thought his short ribs weren't bad but were on the bland side - his least favorite part of the meal. Our friend seemed to enjoy his crab cakes and mentioned that they were light and tasty. We all had draught beers to go with our food and appreciated that the beer menu was fairly extensive, with Full Steam on draught. I would have liked to try one of their specialty cocktails, but I only noticed the cocktail menu as we were placing our drink orders and couldn't really read it from our table because of a glare. I did like the casual feel of the chalkboards and love that their menu is so fresh and seasonal that it makes more sense to use chalkboards, but the concept falls a little short when you can't easily see the menu from all tables. The service was also very good and attentive. TL;DR: Poole's is worth checking out (especially with no preconceived expectations) but falls short of its rave reviews.
(3)Dan K.
If you're in Raliegh and don't stop at Poole's Diner. You're are fucking up! I don't usually drop the F-bomb. But this place warrants it! The best fucking place to eat In raliegh !
(5)Kailee B.
By far one of my favorite places to go in Raleigh. Whenever my boyfriend asks where I want to go, this is it! Best Mac n cheese I've ever had
(5)Sheila B.
The most important factor here is the food. It was amazing! To those who say that it was over salty or unimpressive...all I can say is that you don't have a very diverse palate and are used to cooking things bland. Yes, to some this may be expensive, but I found it to be in line with any other great restaurant in the downtown area. No, it's not as cheap as some chain restaurants, but that's why it's so famed...because it's not a chain restaurant. Yes, this is a little whole in the wall restaurant in busy downtown Raleigh. It has a lot of history as this establishment used to be a pie shop for many years by a different owner. The new owner(and James Beard recipient) kept the name in honor of that history which I loved. It opens at 5pm, with seating at 530p, so those who are looking to yelp for hours of operation instead of the actual restaurant's website are uninformed and not using the internet or their brains to their advantage. You don't just show up at a restaurant at lunch and hope they're open. Many restaurants are not open for lunch....grow up. Opening the bar at 5p is a smart business idea. The patrons drink for 30 minutes while having ample time to look at the chalkboard menus. So there's the reason for the 30 minutes until seating time question that was asked There is only seating for around 50 people and that's including the bar seats. So if you don't get there when they open to put your name down, you WILL be waiting at least an hour. There is ample parking across the street that is designated for Poole's diner and it's free(for now) I found the bar staff while we were waiting a little aloof, but sufficient. The regular wait staff was EXCELLENT. We had a party of 6. We had 3 appetizers and all were equally fantastic. Their pimento cheese was delicious as was the chicken liver pate. The heirloom tomatoes over cornbread was so simple, yet scrumptious with a buttermilk blue cheese on the side. Every entree we ordered was eaten up, with a couple of people scraping the plate with their forks to get every last drop. You could cut the bone in pork chop with your fork..no knife needed. My water glass was never empty, nor was my husband's beer. They have Schlitz and a mountain of other craft beers for the beer drinker with more refined taste. The waitress was very personable and playful with us and brought over extra bread crisps when she saw that we devoured them all but still had a lot of pimento cheese left. Didn't have to ask. She kept a watchful eye. They had 3 desserts. We ordered them all and shared. I can't tell you how great they were. Chocolate peanut butter cake with peanut brittle, lemon blueberry tart with roasted pistachios, and peach cobbler with sour cream ice cream. The cobbler had more of a shortcake topping than a crumble and was soooo good. HELLO, they were devine! Being a VERY small establishment did not mean it was small on taste and style. It very much had the feel and charm of a small diner(hence the name Poole's DINER). The ladies bathroom had a nice touch of having small jars of Q-tips, cotton balls, bobby pins and tampons. I thought it very nice that they tried to spruce up the very old bathroom. As it turned out, I needed a bobby pin to pull my hair back out of my face. The only reason I gave it 4 stars(and really I would give 4 1/2) was the noise factor. I was literally hoarse when I got home from having to yell the entire time we were there(2 hours). even though I was talking to the person right beside of me and right in front of me. That really is no fault of the owner, it's just the nature of a very small diner. However, reviews count for more than just the food, atmosphere is also important, as is the service. So, I knocked off 1/2 a star for atmosphere. I will definitely go back to this place at some point. The food was outstanding and I can't wait to try what else she puts on the menu. It doesn't bother me that I won't know what it is until I get there. I've also been to her Beasley's Chicken and Waffles restaurant and it was good also, so I knew that this would not be a disappointment. As far as price goes, like I said, it is in line with other highly acclaimed raleigh restaurants. 6 people, 3 appetizers, 6 entrees, 3 desserts, and at least 6-8 beers and a coffee came to around $250, not including the tip. I'm sorry, I thought this was very reasonable and we were all full and satisfied completely. If you're not used to eating at finer establishments or are used to going to Chili's or Outback, then I guess this would be a shocker to you. My advice, save up a little and treat yourself. If you go by yourself, you could get an appetizer, entree and dessert for $40, $50 with a tip( and drink water). It's worth it, trust me.
(4)Rachael H.
Poole's Diner - this has been on my wish list for a couple of years. I dined here for brunch about four years ago - before the owner opened her other properties (Beasley's and Joule). I don't believe that they serve brunch here anymore. As a Christmas present this year, my husband obliged and took me out for a surprise dinner on Tuesday, December 23rd. Tips - the kitchen opens up at 530pm but, the bar opens up at 5pm. We arrived around 5pm and were one of the first couples there. It was helpful, as we were able to enjoy a drink, check out the dinner menu (it is only on the chalkboards so take photos with you phone for memory purposes) and get seated quickly once the kitchen opened. Also, you can park in the lot across the street. It says that it is reserved but, it is good for use by Poole's patrons in the evenings. I think Poole's used to have a sign over there but, we didn't see it. We asked when we walked in and they assured us that we were fine. Review - I've got to say that overall, I was a little bit disappointed with the food. Maybe it's not meant for my pallete or maybe I would like it more at a different season. Food wise, it just wasn't as good as I had hoped it would be. Overall, I found the food to be very rich in flavor and very hearty in it's flavor profile, as well. Here is a dish for dish breakdown: Drinks - I ordered the Baked Apple Sangria for $8. It was good - I was pleased. It wasn't the best cocktail that I have ever tasted but, it was good. It reminded me of a cider - not too sweet though - a perfect balance of taste - sweet for me (which i wanted) but not too sweet. My husband was excited to get his hands on a bottle of Bell's Hopslam. They did have a nice list of bottled microbrews. This one is hard to get. It was a nice surprise for him to be able to get this. It was about $17 for these two drinks before the tip. Salad - these are listed on the chalkboard as "Vinaigrettes." I am a sucker for a good salad. So, I definitely wanted to try one of these. We asked our waitress for her recommendation and she suggested the Hen's Peck. Speaking of our waitress, she was fantastic. She didn't seemed rushed and was very kind and spent time answering our questions. She was one of the best servers we have had in awhile. Back to the Hen's Peck - it was good. It was a unique combination - it sat on a bed of Tahini. It included a green - I can't quite remember which green - something unique though. It seemed to be lightly tossed in a vinaigrette too. It also had roasted cauliflower, charred red onions and crispy slices of sweet potatoes. This may have been my favorite part of the meal. It isn't the best salad that I've ever had but, I enjoyed the unique combination and would recommend that you try it. Entrees - Honestly, I wasn't excited about any of the entree choices. They all seemed to be pretty hearty and rich. Again, I asked our server for a recommendation and she mentioned the Rabbit Pot Pie. I had never eaten rabbit before. It was one of the dishes I had been considering so, I went with her recommendation. It was good. Also, it was neat to be exposed to rabbit. I found out that I like it. It reminds me of a dark meat - dark chicken or dark turkey meat. The server also let me know that it was more like a Rabbit stew with a biscuit on top than a full pastry pie crust. I liked it that way. This was a good dish. I don't think I'll crave it but, it was good. My husband ordered the Herb Brined Pork Chop. My husband has become a Pork Chop connoisseur. He has ordered one at the Stanbury, Jose&Sons and now Poole's. He definitely enjoyed this dish but, it wasn't his favorite of the three. He ate his entire dish and enjoyed the dried plums on the dish. He liked how they combined with the white beans and brandy too. Although it wasn't his favorite of the three, he enjoyed it. Mac n Cheese - word on the street - this is a standard order at Poole's. It is a side dish - all of which are family size portions. We ordered one to split between us. We could not finish it. We took much of it and my dish home with us. The Mac was good but, not my favorite ever. Again, it had a really rich flavor. We both enjoyed it though - especially the crusted exterior. It seemed to be made with rich cheeses. It was good though. If you go, I would definitely order it. We read about how it doesn't warm up quite as well the next day - that is correct. There is a lot of oil? in it when you warm it up in the microwave. Try to eat it at Poole's. Flavor wise, it was good the next day - just know you might struggle with the puddle if you take it home. :) I hate it if this review seems harsh. It isn't meant to be harsh. We enjoyed our special night out at Poole's. Service wise, we loved our server. Food wise - it might just not match our preferences. We will hit her other properties - Beasley's and Joule instead.
(3)DJ S.
Love that the original U-shaped counters of what had been a 'pie shop' in the 40's have been retained as the bar. It's appealing in an unfussy way, but I bet they could have better lighting if they investigated some options beyond the cool looking but less flattering/ dimly illuminating period flavor drop fixtures in frosted glass. The cocktail menu seems to lean toward sugary options. The bartender suggested the least sweet which has a bourbon base. I liked okay, but odd that the bourbon flavor was totally under the very tart fruit mixer. So- the food: Well, good (not great) is the word. Still, I wonder about the value. I had pork shoulder with ricotta gnocchi. The portion wasn't tiny, but there ought to have been a side added (greens?) with a $22 price tag. I also did not get offered bread but the woman across the bar got the same entree and was served bread. Hmm. Something one must request? Extra charge even though the entree price is substantial? I had dinner the night before at a restaurant owned by the same woman. It was a bit more than half the price of Poole's, but I was more satisfied in terms of portion...and gustatorial experience. This place is clearly a 'trendy find' for the well heeled. But I'm sure I would not come back given the expense unless someone else really REALLY wanted me to dine with them at this establishment. It's not a bad choice... I just suspect there are better choices for the money.
(3)Michael H.
We love Poole's. I mean, who doesn't love gourmet mac and cheese? What keeps this place from 5 stars is a combination of not taking reservations, and the fashionably late service that never seems to keep our water glasses topped up enough. This restaurant could easily hit five stars out of the ballpark, and maybe not taking reservations is all part of the "too cool for school" vibe, but I just don't love standing around for an hour waiting to get seated, when there's a lot of other really good restaurants in close proximity that will take reservations.
(4)Kaidyn A.
My boyfriend and I went here last night for the first time. The food was absolutely amazing and we will definitely go back for dessert another night because we were too full from two entrees and a side. The Mac and cheese was amazing and definitely our favorite thing there! Although the the short ribs and potato salad was just as delicious and out scallops were cooked just right. The music was a bit loud for the amount of people there and our server seemed a bit annoyed but besides that we had a great time(:
(5)Erika B.
The crab beignets were excellent as well as the Mac & cheese. They also had a pretty good beer selection.
(5)April G.
The good- food, actually great The bad- parking The ugly- the wait- don't come with a large group
(3)Lucy Y.
The biggest pluses about this restaurant are the FOOD ITEMS. However, the atmosphere is very loud - like, can't-hear-across-the-table loud! The entire menu is written on the wall's expansive chalkboard, so from certain seats you'll want to walk over to get a better look. When we arrived at 7ish on a Friday night, it was an hour wait, & the place was packed. This was GREAT: Heirloom Tomato with Corn Bread - quartered ripe tomatoes on top of tender & warm slices of super moist (steamed pudding textured) grilled corn bread, topped with a whipped cream that tasted like creamed corn, and snippets of dill & chives Macaroni Au Gratin - tender elbows in a perfectly incorporated white cheddar sauce, topped with a browned crust of yellow cheddar made this soooo good! Short Ribs - served with slices of tiny fingerling potatoes mixed with lobster, the short ribs were beautifully fatty, slowly braised, delicious with the bit of jus served on the side I tasted & really liked what my friends had: Pork Chop - slices of moist & tender meat on a bed of chow chow Roast Chicken - golden skinned half chicken, looking sooo comfort foody on top of mashed potatoes, and drizzled with a pan gravy Unfortunately, dessert was super disappointing: Blueberry Peach streusel pie - topped with a tangy sour cream ice cream, the filling was nowhere near sweet - especially not what was needed to balance the ice cream's slightly sour. There was no detectable berry or peach flavor in the filling, & were it not for the peach puree that came with, there woudn't have been any fruit flavor at all. Even the streusel was flavorless. Sad. Even with the disappointing dessert, the details & flavors in the appetizers & mains were great enough to make me want to come back here again. The cool atmosphere, though loud, was upscale diner-y, especially with its long counter with cool-looking red barstools. Service wasn't overly warm, but was definitely proper & on point. Next time, I'll just think twice about getting dessert.
(4)Anita A.
What was old is new! I ate at Poole's when it was the old time country cooking place almost 30 years ago. Moved offices and had heard that it is now a new and different kind of diner. It was good, good enough to go again! The honey had the Steak au poive (may be supposed to have a "r" in that word!), and I had the snapper on farro. Layers of flavor, just enough food, steak cooked perfectly, the whole meal was very enjoyable. We split a dessert, the Panna Cotta............that left me wanting more, but I do love me some sweets! We will definetly be back when a nightly outing brings us through downtown.
(4)Sharifa M.
I've never Yelped a restaurant before even though I live by Yelp. I've rented venues, stayed at hotels, and dined all by Yelp law. Tonight... Something special happened. Something that got my thumbs itching for my first Yelp. I can't tell you what they did... But you know what you did Pooles Diner... Late, on this snowy evening... You reached down from Mac au gratin heaven and blessed me with snowpocolypse power food under very special circumstance. Thank you Poole's... You're a gentleman and a scholar. *dont even need to write a review on food, experience, or service BC ITS SO ON FLEEK I CANT PUT IT INTO WORDS.
(5)Cathleen N.
I was really looking forward to trying Poole's after my husband and so many of our other friends raved about it. However, I was severely disappointed. The menu changes quite often due to their use of seasonal ingredients. I love this concept and am all for it! One shocker based on the environment was the pricing. I was a bit surprised at how expensive it was, but was readying myself for some what I thought would be fantastic food. Going back to the environment, I couldn't understand if they were trying to go for a more upscale environment with the food/prices being offered versus the more casual vibe with the diner theme and chalkboards. It was also a lot louder than I had expected- giving more leeway towards a diner setting. We started off with the ahi tuna and the presentation was beautiful! I just wish there was a stronger citrus note within the dish as they served it with a heavy mayo-based sauce on the side. For my entree, I chose the bone-in pork chop with a chimichurri sauce. It was delicious....for the first few bites. After a few bites though, the whole dish was quite heavy and was too savory. Needless to say, I didn't finish my meal. I love mac 'n cheese. Safe to say that if it's on the menu, I'm ordering it. My husband has also raved about the mac 'n cheese here and so on the ticket it went. When it first came out, I won't lie, but my eyes bugged out a bit. I couldn't believe the size of the mac 'n cheese! Easily shareable between 4 or more individuals. I excitedly dug into the mac 'n cheese, but was so disappointed! The melted cheese on top stays just that, a heavy lump of cheese. I much prefer creamy mac 'n cheeses and this definitely fell short of my expectation. Also, since I've moved to North Carolina, I've been taking advantage of the sweet tea whenever we go out. They don't serve sweet tea o_o! I couldn't believe it either. Our waitress, although nice, was not very attentive. I can see the appeal of the restaurant, but it's just not for me.
(2)Stephanie J.
Completely utterly overrated. The ambiance pays homage to the dinner theme. With an original looking counter lay out from the 50s. This does not allow for adequet space for bar access or any where for waiting patrons to wait except over the should of dining patrons at thr bar. If you are lucky enough to get a table I hope you don't enjoy sitting because you will have to fight to see the dimly lit chalk board menu. This maybe super cheeky somewhere else but the descriptions are minimal and not specific. They also do not high light the quality of origin of the food so it seems to leave the guest some what guessing. The serving staff were not helpful. I have no qualm with a limited menu but the staff really could not high light the value or the quality in the dishes. The service was fine other than that. The loud dimly lit abiance with an absorbantly long wait did not leave me excited for the food no matter how good it was I don't think it could make up for the initial engagement with this eating establishment. The food was good however portions were somewhat lacking in the portions in the protein department. Although neither myself or my dining companions left hungry we had no desire for more of the food. We definitely were craving something more at the end of the meal and it wasn't dessert. Overall the Poole's dinner is overrated and I would prefer to patronize other establishments by the same owner.
(3)David S.
Wonderful meal! Went with my wife and a friend, and we split everything except my chicken liver pâté. Scallops on a bed of turnip greens were cooked perfectly, and the roast chicken was perfectly browned yet as juicy as possible. Al dente asparagus with mushrooms was great as well. Nothing topped the macaroni and cheese, though, sharp and creamy with a slightly chewy crust. For dessert, the strawberry rhubarb cobbler was very good. The waitress said they got rhubarb from a friend in Atlanta. Chocolate cake was also good, but not quite up to the cobbler. Overall, food was very good, and prices were reasonable for the quality.
(5)Jason O.
Poole's was my first favorite restaurant in Raleigh before I moved here. Its conveniently located downtown, and has a hidden away gem kind of vibe. It's really an artisanal type of food place, posing as a diner. They change the menu, which is a chalkboard on the wall, quite often. It's always interesting. Great beer and wine selection and reasonable prices. Its popular and they don't take resos, so if you are hungry, can't wait, and/or with a large group, this is not your place. If you can have a drink at the bar, and hang a bit, this is the place. Get the mac and cheese.
(4)Amanda T.
Food was tasty but overpriced. I got the mac and cheese ($12) based on other yelper recommendations and the beef carpaccio. Wasn't hungry enough to brave a large plate. The mac & cheese was massive and the brussels sprouts on the beef carpaccio were the perfect combo of crispy, smoky, and salty, but it was not a +$30 meal imo. The couple next to me went for the chicken and seemed to have the same opinion: $40 for two sets of leg & thighs = meh but taste wise it was the chicken to rule them all.
(3)Zachary H.
Had my birthday dinner here last Thursday. Excellent as always. The lamb meatloaf and Mac and cheese were off the charts. Always good summertime mix drinks as well. The peanut butter chocolate chess pie looked delicious but will have to try on another visit. We were stuffed!
(5)Marian S.
Don't let the outside fool you. Amazing food. Ate the entire pimento cheese myself. Burratta with peaches was simple and delicious. Highlight was the catfish. Mac and cheese was good but a little over salted.
(4)Laurie V.
The only reason one star gets knocked off is because of the terrible acoustics. It is way too LOUD! But the food and the service? Top notch. We came it around 7 on a Tuesday and it was crowded, but we got a booth almost within minutes, sans wait whatsoever. My friend and I shared the macaroni and cheese (creamy and delish with a crispy top); the chicken pate (not too heavy- perfect flavor and consistency- although they were a little skimpy with the little crostini thingys, so we had to ask for more); and then we shared the watermelon salad with chevre, basil, and avacado. We ordered the Pimm's pitcher. Lemony and cucumbery, it was very refreshing and delightful. So I'm not sure I'd mark this at the top of my list, simply because of the noisy ambiance. But the food and service: very very good.
(4)J M.
Been there 4-5 times. The food is phenomenal ...that being said, the prices are not and not proportionate with the food. Get ready to spend + $120 for two (minus the tip), unless you want only water and no sides. Wait staff is...Meh at best. Love-hate with Poole's.
(3)Audrey H.
A cute little spot. Perfect for a date night. I tried the tuna tartar & the infamous mac & cheese. Both were great. Had the best lavender & bombay cocktail. Everything really adds up here & it quickly turns into an expensive meal, but then again any place worth a damn downtown does too.
(4)Brandon S.
This place has the classiest most upscale southern cuisine you will find in Raleigh. If you haven't been to Poole's do yourself and your taste buds a favor and eat here as soon as possible.
(5)Jessica R.
I remember loving Poole's a few years ago... But tonight left me with mixed reviews. While the food tasted great, the portions were so tiny for the price that it wasn't worth it. Cons - Loud, almost to the point where we couldn't hear our server. - TINY, and I repeat TINY portions. For $24, my boyfriend had maybe 3 bites of the short rib. - Menu on the wall makes it awkward to view options. You end up hovering over other guests to read. Pros - Delicious food. Interesting, flavorful delicious combinations. - I was satisfied ordering a salad and an appetizer for the same price as the tiny "entree" options. - Macaroni. If you want to spend $50 - $60 on dinner (before drinks) and still be hungry, go for it. Otherwise, you can get way more bang for your buck elsewhere.
(3)Connie L.
loved it! went Monday night around 5:15PM and sat at the bar until we were seated at 5:30PM we wanted to try a little bit of everything so shared a bunch of small dishes instead of ordering entrees got the mac&cheese= i usually don't eat mac&cheese, but this was AMAZING! the crust on top was so good and it wasn't super heavy. i could keep eating and eating and eating and not get sick of it 10oz royale= this is like an open faced burger.. usually they only offer this on sundays but since they were closed yesterday, they offered it today.. glad they did! it was cooked a little rarer than we ordered, but was still good. roasted beet salad with prosciutto= pretty standard but it does come with blue cheese for those of you who don't like blue cheese overall, wonderful service and good food.. if i do go back, will definitely stick with ordering the mac&cheese and other small dishes! three of us were super full and had leftovers to take home!
(5)Alex P.
I've heard so much about this place. The owner is also the owner of other great restaurants around Raleigh like Beesleys chicken and honey and shock. The menu for the evening is written on the chalkboards on the walls. It is forever changing. We got the macaroni and cheese is an appetizer and it was quite possibly the best macaroni and cheese I've had in Raleigh. My friend got the scallops and they looked incredible I got the short rib and it was off the chain. We will definitely be back
(5)Camp H.
My absolute hands down favorite place in Raleigh. I have never been that impressed with the food in this town. I travel all over the East coast and this could very easily be in my too three of not my all time favorite repeat. Second time I've been here and it's the first time I've seen a restaurant duplicate such culinary perfection. The chef and owner just won the James Beard award for the southeast, I personally feel she could take a national title. The menu changes often which of course is the best showcase of culinary talent, but if your in luck, they will be serving the Chilled corn soup with NC jumbo crab meat. Entree could not have been prepared any better, NC yellowfin tuna with poached shrimp, neon eggplant, pickled ramps, local mushrooms, Marcona almonds and a shoyu sorghum vinaigrette. Holy healthy minus the sauce! It was perfect. Pooles is on a different level than anything else in this town and more than likely state. Might be the only reason in the future I come back to Raleigh. Loved it!
(5)Alex A.
Pooles is the quintessence of southern dining. The experience goes far beyond the food...it is defined by attentive staff, a carefully crafted menu, and a classic diner theme. The intimate atmosphere makes every dinner guest the closest of comrades. Put simply, it's a "life changing" food experience.
(5)Cassie M.
My husband and I have been to Poole's Diner a handful of times. There is typically a wait depending on the time you go, however the food is worth the wait. They have a decent beer selection, wine, and specialty cocktails. The macaroni and cheese is the BEST! Since the macaroni and cheese is a heavy dish we typically get it to share. My husband has had chicken and braised short ribs before, both were excellent and proper portion sizes. I have had 2 different fish entrees both times I have been there and they were great portions and perfectly cooked both times. The next time we go we will would like to try some of their appetizers and desserts because they always look delicious. Poole's is by fav my favorite restaurant in downtown Raleigh!
(5)Peter Y.
PRO TIP: their menu is written on their whiteboards, so don't wait around like an idiot expecting an actual menu (I totally didn't do this btw). Located downtown (duh!), Poole's DD offers some great, modern food in a casual, fun setting. The service is attentive and waiters are friendly. The food actually came out pretty quick too. I highly recommend their short ribs. While not a lot of food, the quality of the short ribs are amazing. Tender, juicy and filled with enough flavor to stand on its own. Complement it with some red squash and lima beans and you've got yourself a delicious meal. It's also very reasonably priced at $22 a pop. One of my favorite dining destinations in Raleigh!
(4)Rod J.
Had the lamb meatloaf and as usual at AC restaurants it had great flavor and texture. Unfortunately, as with the other AC establishments there was hardly enough for the price. Just not enough value for the bird sized portions which is why foodie rail thin girls love this place.
(3)Nikki W.
I would weigh 500 pounds if I lived in Raleigh because of this place. Holy RIDICULOUS mac 'n cheese Batman! This isn't your mama's diner. It's upscale, modern, and features absolutely amazing food. I stopped here for dinner after the elite event Thursday. No "standard" menu here. Chalkboards list your choices. My crew decided to each order something different and share. Here's the breakdown: Local lettuces w/charred brussel sprouts, pecorino, pomegranate, red onion, white balsamic vinaigrette: I absolutely love brussel sprouts. Delicious flavor combination Maine lobster, marinated avocado app: great starter. Simple, clean, super tasty. Mac 'n cheese: This is a MUST get here. I'm not one who orders mac 'n cheese when I go out, but I will get this every time I visit this place. Note: it's a huge serving so you can share with your entire group. Shorts ribs, braised cabbage, topped with crispy onion strings: the braised cabbage was the star here. I would eat an entire bowl of that. Beef carpaccio topped with crispy okra, marinated peppers, horseradish creme frache: I'm not usually a big carpaccio fan but this was great. We also ordered one of the fish dishes. The fish itself was just okay, but the bed of greens under it was amazing. Fantastic meal. I think I was in a food coma ten minutes later. Poole's, I love you. Wanna be in a Facebook relationship with me?
(5)Arlene Kivnick B.
Just had a wonderful experience here No reservations accepted so we got there a little late at 5:10 and at the seating time if 5:30 we were seated at the counter. Lucky us. Great service. No feeling of being rushed. Wonderful food and a very lively atmosphere. Kudos to all. Oh. Forgot to mention the food...excellent pork chop and lobster with potato gnocchi in a luscious tomato sauce. Great selection of wine etc. We will certainly return .
(5)Sloan S.
I kind of have a love-hate relationship with Poole's. There are so many things that turn me off, i.e., no menu online (which I usually love to stalk pre-visiting), no reservations (which leads to ridiculously long waits), interior space that is both dark and loud, etc. However, for all of these issues, the food keeps bringing me back and making me realize that yes, it really is good enough to overcome all of the other "shortfalls." Seriously, the food is good. While I hate that I can't check it out before going, there is always something on the menu that sounds appealing, and chances are, it more than exceeds my expectations. On my last visit, I ordered a beet and arugala salad with prosciutto as my main while my boyfriend had the pork tenderloin served with fried green tomatoes and some sort of fresh salsa. We split a side of macaroni and cheese (so really, I had salad and macaroni for dinner... and I'm okay with that). Like all the other reviewers mention, it really is to die for. The flavor, consistency, "crunchy" baked outside... I could go on and on. It very well may be the best macaroni I've ever had! We both loved our dishes and of course took macaroni home, which my boyfriend said was just as good the next day. I gripe about the no reservations and how loud it is inside because these are things that keep me from bringing groups of people or my family. Sometimes I wish they would change, but then again, maybe this is part of Poole's charm. It really is a special occasion for me to do a date night here, because to get in timely is almost like the stars aligning; however, when this happens, I always leave with a smile on my face and remember why I love Poole's to begin with.
(4)Cassady S.
Hmmmmm. I'm conflicted about this review since I love to come home to my home state of North Carolina and eat good food at half the price of what I pay in DC. Poole's, however, made me realize I should have banked on the char-grilled burger joint down the street instead. The ambiance of the restaurant was excellent. Dark enough to look pretty, but enough light to read the menu. The wine, selections and prices, were also on point. It is really the food (and that's why we're here, right?) that disappointed me. I ordered the fish. Although cooked just fine, the filet was plopped into a pool of indistinguishable sauce along with vegetables that I now can't even remember. And that's the real shame about paying $60 for dinner. When you can't even pluck out one single flavor, but instead your food is swirled around until it's become bland, colorless goop. It looks like everyone loved the mac & cheese which always make me pause since how could you honestly go wrong with that dish? You could serve Kraft Easy Mac, charge $12 a saucer and still get rave reviews on that shit. So I would recommend going to Poole's to look pretty in the dark, drink wine and order dessert. Don't come here expecting any sort of culinary brilliance.
(3)Rhea B.
Food is ok! What imprinted on my memory or rather on my taste buds was Sir Isaac Newton cocktail which is deliriously autumnal, offering a heady dose of apple-on-apple action. This is a variation on a classic sour, but with a harmonious apple flavors. (thanks to the apple brandy).There is a perfect tang from lemon and a nice dose of spice - cloves, cinnamon & nutmeg maybe. Perfect fall cocktail to indulge in North Carolina's September.
(3)aranza p.
They open at 5 but they don't start seating until 5:30ish pm, so unless you want to grab a drink prior to eating, come after 5:30. My boyfriend and I ordered the baguette which came out nice and warm, soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside. It came with a side of butter but it needed a little more salt. We ordered two Vermont ciders which were pretty good, and we also noticed their large variety in beers. The menu is written on the chalkboards on the wall so don't expect a typical individualized paper/plastic menu. You might have to get up from your seat to look at the menu, but I assume they do this because they are often changing the menu. My boyfriend ordered the special burger they had that day which came in an open face sandwich seared in duck fat and melted cheese on top. Translation: it was a piece of meat that looked like a really big meatball with very salted cheese melted on top and the whole thing was placed on top of a single wedge of baguette bread. It was all that great. The real winners here were the family size side of Mac and cheese and the roasted Rosemary chicken with mashed potatoes. These dishes were amazing and I would absolutely come back just for these two dishes alone. In addition the staff were very nice, apart from a very pushy bartender who didn't even let us think for two minutes before asking us what we wanted to drink again even though we told her we needed more time, they all knew the menu and were attentive to our needs. Heads up, it's a dark environment as the only means of light in the restaurant are candles on the table and Christmas colored lights on the ceiling.
(4)Becky F.
I've been duped!! I read plenty of Yelp Reviews on this restaurant and had it bookmarked for a long time. Last night after the Yelp Meet & Greet the BF and I decided "lets go grab a bite to eat." We're in our jeans and T's, Poole's Diner is right around the corner, it has a 2-$ Rating which is $11-$30 per person, sounds about right! But we ended up spending $90 for 2 small plates of food, 2 drinks, and sharing a side. Bread must be purchased separately which we didn't do, nor did we get salads or an appetizer. I think the $80 tab (+ tip) at a diner with 2-$ rating is what disappointed me the most. My first thought as we arrived at this poor shaggy storefront, is it looks like cheap rent and they can't even afford a sign. Let's go in and contribute to this long standing Raleigh Establishment, help 'em out a bit. Inside is as dark as can be, and with the bright glare of the setting sun against the buildings across the street you are blinded by brightness at one end of the long narrow corridor of a restaurant, and blinded by black, gray, and reds and lack of light at the other end. We were seated right away as we tried to catch glimpses of the dark chalkboards with offerings and prices. Whaa?? $20+ for a dinner plate, PLUS you order your Sides, Salad, and Bread separately? Drinks are $10 a pop? Why didn't my fellow Yelpers mention any of this?? I've been duped. I don't think anyone has mentioned to be prepared to drop $100 for a dinner for two, with no frills. We ordered from the limited chalkboard menus... I settled for the $22 deep fried Soft Shelled Crab on a bed of room temp marinated beans, and my beau settled for the $21 short rib (yes, that is not plural!) on sliced eggplant. The food was good, we both agreed, but not worthy of the price. As most other Reviewers recommend, we ordered a side of Mac'n Cheese (pardon me, the "Macaroni Au Gratin") to share for another 10 bucks, and we each had 1 drink. I agree with everyone else that the Mac is "to die for" in taste and texture, but also in fat and cholesterol. And any hopes of getting a deal by bringing home leftovers of this dish are dashed after heating it up at home and ending up with a dish of plain macaroni soaking in orange colored oil. Ick, we put that in our bodies last night? Yikes. Service was slow... we each had a drink prior to getting here, and the drinks we ordered at Poole's were gone by the time the food came and by that time we NEEDED some food. It was too long of a wait with no bread or even Saltines (its a Diner, right?) on the table. Dinner for 2 (if you can consider it 'dinner' with no Bread, Salad or Appetizer) with 1 glass of wine and 1 mixed drink was a little over $90 with the Tip. Not quite the jeans & t-shirt "grab a bite" kind of meal we expected, but Poole's is out of my bookmark list now, thankfully.
(2)Ian Maren C.
I just can't say enough about this place. Amazing. We went on a Thursday and it was busy like a Friday or Saturday. The staff was very quick, efficient and super friendly, plus they knew the menu well. The food was amazing. We had the mac n cheese which was just unbelievable amazing. Ribs were great as well. Drinks were excellent by the bartenders and dessert was unbelievable. Menu changes which is great. This place is worth the wait and the price. Check out pictures for ideas on what to order.
(5)Addyline L.
I am trying to make this not sound like a temper tantrum, but I'm not sure you will be on my side by the time I am done. For you see, when I leave my house to go to a nice place, I like to be assured a seat at a reasonable time, read from a legible menu, and be served filling, delicious fare at a price I can afford. Poole's doesn't fit into any of these prerequisites. If you are the anti-me, you will like Poole's. The Wait: Why? Just take reservations, please. Big cities do that all the time! It is not uncool to plan ahead. The problem is with first come first serve is that everyone arrives first. The Menu: Why? It is written in chalk scrawl on a board that you must lean near and over other customers in pre or mid-meal to read. All self-consciously covering up your elbow patches because you feel like you have out-hipstered yourself to the point of being a cartoon. (but that is another story!) The Layout: There's an awkward horseshoe-shaped bar that protrudes into the middle of the room. This appears to allow servers to move around quickly behind it, (they are cute and well dressed and nice) but it seems like if the floor layout had been planned better they could have had a lot more seating which means less wait time. BUT. Lovely interior with plush reds, and dark hues. The Service: *see "cute" "well dressed" and "nice" The Food: Fine. It's delicious. And hit or miss. Small portions, big prices. I have made better huevos rancheros in my own home, but I've never had such delicious shrimp and cheesy grits in my life. Would you like a 1/4 cup glass of fresh pressed orange juice for upwards of $5? Nah. But I will have another delightful brown sugar cube for my seemingly endless coffee refills. Because I am all about value. If I am going to drop this kind of cash, I want to take some of my food home and not feel like I need seconds as I grab around for crusts of bread to soak up whatever juices are left on my plate. The Toilet: It is quite lovely in the bathroom. Beautiful, even. I'd go back to Poole's but only if someone else is paying, reading then menu to me like I am a five year old, and I've had snacks beforehand..also like a five year old. See, it's hard to be completely down on Poole's just because I'm a snob about being snobby. If you have money, time, patience, and an appreciation for delicious but small meals, you should go! I have none of these attributes, apparently.
(2)Nicki S.
Don't really get what the hype was all about with this place. Everyone said how great of a place it was to eat. I disagree, was nothing special. I ordered the Royale. Pretty much a burger with no bun and some liquid to pour over it. Yep, sums it up. We got the mac and cheese but even then,kind of hard to screw up Mac and cheese. It was good, but again, nothing to brag about. Maybe I'm not a foodie so I don't see the point in a lot of these trend places but for the price and hype, I was expecting spectacular and honestly, just got something I felt I could get at any normal restaurant.
(3)Craig A.
The food was good, nothing spectacular, but good. As others have mentioned, the service is horrible. Our waitress was slow and rude. Granted, I was in a bad mood because the hostess couldn't be bothered to pay attention to the order that people came in. They do have a very broad drink selection, but be warned you'll be surrounded by all the self important hipsters that work downtown.
(2)Chip R.
Well, I guess I am going to be one of those rare few that has not fallen under Poole's magic spell of the gourmet diner. I have visited there a few times over the years, and while they have some good food, I am just not sold on the entire package. I give them an A-OK 3 stars overall though. Most of my experiences have been during brunch situations. And I suppose I like simple for that sort of meal. Most every time there are some great gourmet offerings that seem to have plenty of thought into them as wonderful dishes. Unfortunately, most of them really don't hit me as what I want to satisfy my hunger. Yes, maybe I have simple tastes (hey, I say in my profile that I'm not a foodie, I just like to eat a lot). My most recent encounter I ended up ordering from the sides menu, which ended up being double order of scrambled eggs and grits. Now don't get me wrong, both were great. The grits especially, they were of a different consistency of what I consider normal grits, in that they almost look like gravy used for biscuits and gravy. But the taste, definitely great, a pleasant surprise. The eggs were a tad undercooked for my usual taste but they were good. I have ordered the french toast in the past when offered on the menu (the menu, I'll get to that). But it's not your ordinarily expected french toast of course. Very rich and almost gourmet pastry-like, pretty good tasting. Not exactly what I had my heart set on though. I mentioned the menu...there is not one they hand out to you for you to peruse at your leisure at your seat. The menu is on chalkboards above the bar and on the walls. Depending on which menu is of interest to you, you need to jock for position to be seated as near to it to see it best. If you are not that lucky, you have to walk up to it I guess. Just not a fan of this type of menu system. Of the selections on the menu on the boards, most of them are very special gourmet type selections. I am sure they are wonderful creations but again, I just find that most of them are not up my alley when I go out. Plus they have a group of chosen entrees or offerings, it seems very constricted and limiting. I just didn't find something for every taste it seemed. I guess I need to broaden my horizons though, it can go both ways I do realize. But to the gourmet crowd, I am sure these are great, carefully selected offerings to try. The service has been good in my experiences. I have had friendly service that has made sure my beverages are topped and that I have everything I need. My food came to me quickly. No problems with the service or staff with my visits, keep up the great work. Bottom line: It may be that it's just not my kind of place, but find the offerings limited and grandiose. Menus on the chalkboard just not an optimal system for everyone to get information. The food I have sampled there though is good, but hard to get a fix on something for my tastes. Service has been good. I may go there once in a great while to see what changes are there (as has been the case), but it's not a regular on my list. A-OK 3 stars for them.
(3)Susie S.
What a huge disappointment for such an acclaimed restaurant. Service was fair, food had good flavor but was served just warm. The sangria was simply tasteless. Lastly, it was loud, including the background music which simply added to the already excessive noise level. I was not able to talk with my dinner partner. In the past, we have been seated in the back and it was easier to have dinner conversation.
(2)Ben Y.
Three words. Macaroni. And. Cheese. A fourth word. Crowded. My other half, Yelper Laura P. and I wanted to find the best macaroni and cheese in North Carolina. After a quick search, it was obvious that Poole's is a fan favorite. In my life long tour of the world to find the best mac & cheese, I found a top 10 favorite! Poole's mac is lusciously decadent. It is creamy to the max with what must be a four cheese blend that has that textured, authentic sauce taste I love. Laura and I ordered one for each of us, but could not finish them and inhaled the rest a day later. It is still magnificent, even after experiencing the inside of a microwave. Baked to perfect, this mac & cheese is easily one of the best renditions I've ever experienced. As for the extensive wait, I can just say it was extensive. And crammed. Poole's could benefit from some expansion. They have limited tables and two half-circle bar seating areas. We found the bar seating was our best bet, and were seated after about 45 minutes. Standing in there is a mess, so I suggest stopping by, dropping your name on the list, and filling your long wait elsewhere. The employees were very friendly in spite of their extremely frantic working conditions. With the building WAY over the maximum occupancy and definitely a fire hazard, the bartenders still maintained their composure. In conclusion, this macaroni and cheese is easily one of the best dishes on planet earth.
(4)Joyce C.
It was my first time in the South, and I decided that I HAVE to try the Mac & Cheese. I'm a huge fan of the cheese and noodle combination. So I did my research on Yelp and find Poole's Downtown Diner. It was less than a mile from my hotel, so why not? I walk into the diner - it is small and dim. Seating is mostly bar seating - perfect, it won't be THAT obvious that I'm eating by myself. They have a large selection of beers and many of them are microbrews from around the U.S. Even better! I grab a beer and go straight for the mac&cheese - no hesitation. The dish was extremely rich. It had a baked cheese crust over the macaroni which makes it even better. The cheese was extremely flavorful and rich. I was only able to finish half of it. Prices are slightly high for what it is. I believe the Mac&Cheese was somewhere around $13? Oh and Poole's also does not have menus. All their dishes are written around the restaurant on the walls. There's a soup and salad wall, a main entree wall, a dessert wall, etc.
(4)Tricia T.
Delish food! I never would have noticed this place or wanted to go in, except for a recommendation from a co-worker. Good thing I listened! The food was amazing- so fresh and so flavorful. Best Mac n Cheese-- it's a MUST!!! Desserts looked great too, but I'm watching my calories (trying to get off the baby weight!!). Not a deal breaker, but not very kid-friendly (i.e. no hi-chair). And although it's called a "Diner", it's much more retro sheik than diner-esque.
(4)Sarah P.
WORTH THE WAIT! Yes, you will have to wait for a table on weekends. Relax, grab a delicious cocktail from the bar, and wait your turn for the Noms, I promise you won't be disappointed.
(5)Kevin J.
A $50 breakfast (table for two) should do better than this offering. While taste of my mexican eggs and beans brunch was generally good, and service including refill frequency was almost impeccable, there was not much about the food nor the atmosphere that makes me want to line myself up with my lovely GF to go back here next time I am in Raleigh on December.... or January even. I think we would both rather try other places next time. Saw another table split a dessert. If you are full or don't want to spend the $9 going rate for any one of their sweet plate trifecta, that's your call. I would never do it. There is no way I am ever leaving this restaurant on a full stomach to begin with, but if I were, their dessert portions seem inadequate. It was a few bites of chocolate blended cake on the end of a spoon. Looked like a fancy dessert for $9, but it lacked the necessary volume to go halfsies on. Poole's biggest letdown were the bloody marys. Even after asking for more fresh tomato juice to add to the mix, the result was neither red at all nor did it taste anything like quality tomato juice. I guess they make it by hand but their efforts were wasted as neither my date nor I enjoyed the unusual flavor. The operating hours are somewhat limited for a diner, also.
(2)Erin T.
I had always looked forward to coming to Poole's for a romantic night out--I wasn't disappointed! We strolled in around 8:30 and were given an estimate of 45 minutes to an hour for our wait so we sauntered over to the bar for refreshments. I ordered the Cava Rosat--it was delicious! and my boyfriend ordered Rochefort beer. Both were served in Riedel glassware (fancy!). The ambiance was very inviting and though the bar service was a bit slow (a 5 minute wait for one drink, while being ignored by multiple employees), we were still enjoying ourselves. We were seated at the bar after a quick wait. We then ordered! Fresh baguette with fresh butter, the macaroni and cheese, the Royale (an open faced burger) and a shrimp, mussels & grits bowl. The baguette was delicious! nice and crispy! The macaroni was amazing too! However, I was not impressed with the shrimp/mussels dish or the roayle (although the BF seemed impressed!). I there just wasn't much flavor in the shrimp/mussels dish and I was disappointed when I bit into a shrimp that had not been peeled. ugh. Also, the wait for the food was a little long. If I could, I'd award 3.5 stars, but I'll round up to 4 since I really enjoyed myself. It would be nice if there were little purse hooks at the bar so I wouldn't have had to balance my purse on a tiny little ledge for the duration of the meal. I did enjoy the fact that were was not a TV in sight!
(4)Lauren H.
Ate at Poole's with a friend on a weeknight and even then it was crowded, however, it was only around a 30-minute wait for a table so it wasn't too bad. I ordered the royale and we shared a side of mac and cheese. In general I am not a huge fan of places where you have to order your entree and side seperately. The mac-and-cheese was some of the best I had ever had. We both got the royales and they were also good and provided us with left-overs to take home as they were huge! The atmosphere is nice, it's not a big restaurant so it can get crowded quickly. I like the chalk boards with the rotating menus, it seems like anytime you go they will always have new options. I am giving Poole's three stars because although I did like the food that I ordered, the service was extremely slow. I would like to go back again sometime and give it another try though.
(3)KK W.
I wrote a four star review a few months ago. After last night they get 5. Again, there are some things you need to know about Poole's. It's loud and crowded, you might not get a table right away, it's expensive. The menu is limited with some sometimes interesting and weird choices. But I knew that going in and I was blown away again by the food. The service was great too. When I go out to eat, I often think, "I could have made that at home and it would be better." At Poole's I'm just blown away at what they are able to prepare. I don't know how they come up with the ideas or how they make it. I couldn't do it. At Poole's the food flavor, texture, the interesting ingredients, they were all just amazing. I had the lamb meatloaf on greens, mac and cheese, with a tuna tar tar appetizer. and I was drinking Kentucky Frogs. All of it was amazing.
(5)Pam G.
Just visited Poole's for the second time last weekend and I must say that I enjoyed the second visit a lot more than the first. The first time I came away wondering what all of the hype was about. This time I understood it completely. The pros: Fantastic food! Great service house made butter - wow! prices The cons: No reservations (except for the one table that they were holding in the back....) No where to wait for your table Tiny wine list I have avoided Poole's for a long time mainly because of the no reservation policy. I don't mind waiting for a table if I can sit at the bar and have a drink while I wait, but here you have to find a little corner somewhere to stuff yourself into to wait. This is probably more bearable in the summer when you can wait outside, but not the most pleasant on a crowded winter weekend night. We got there around 8 on a Saturday and were told our wait would be 45 minutes. We worked our way up to the bar and got a drink and were able to find a somewhat out of the way spot to wait for our table. Our wait ended up being a lot shorter than the 45 minutes, more like about 20 and we were seated at the counter. I expected this to be unpleasant because of all of the people waiting around us, but we really didn't notice. Our server was very attentive and helpful. We like to order multiple items to share and they happened to have a number of appetizers that sounded particularly good that night, so we ended up appetizer heavy., Between the two of us we got the oyster stew, the beef tartare, a baguette with house made butter and the scallops served on a bed of farro. Everything we had was fabulous! I never thought I would be commenting on butter, but that house made butter was incredible! I don't know what all was in the farro but it was like candy, I could have had that for my dessert. If they took reservations or at least had a decent place to wait for your table, this would be 5 stars for sure!
(4)S K.
A little pretentious. This is not a restaurant where you get what you pay for. Don't get me wrong, I am a foodie and don't mind paying for great food, but this place was trying way too hard to be thought of as a hipster place. It's more like a place in which people go to it because everyone else has you brainwashed into thinking it has great food. My fellow foodies and I were excited to try it because we love Ashley Christensen's other restaurants around town. Her chicken really is the best fried chicken that I've ever had and Chucks is a great concept as well with food that can back it up. However, with Poole's it fell short. I would've rather paid a little bit more and gone to Second Empire for better food and service. Considering the cost of the food, I would expect the servers to know their menu. That's cute and all that they have the menu on the chalkboards for the customers to look at, but if you're not going to have a printed menu as well for the table, the servers should be able to tell you the items (especially since there was only about 20 items on the menu). I used to be a server and we would have menu tests and if you want to be able to "sell" your food you better have recommendations on hand as well. We all ordered something different and the items that recieved the most rave was the Mac n' Cheese and the Royale Burger. Although even with the burger, they couldn't get the temperature right and had to be sent back. The beet salad was just okay (check out J. Betzky's beet salad, so much better). I ordered the fish and it was good, nothing spectacular that made it stand out and the size of a plum. Did not really have more flavor, just cooked at the perfect temperature. Thank God we also ordered several sides to make up for the "dinner." The appetizers were bigger than the actual entrees. I can't even really comment on any other food items because it was just simply forgettable. The Au gratin was dry and tasted like it had been cooked the day before. Nothing bad or good about it, just remembering that everyone thought that for the price, nothing stood out. The best part of the meal was the Mac n' Cheese. It truely was the best Mac n' Cheese ever. I'd order it to go or just order that at the counter. I was truely dissapointed with Poole's because I had such high hopes after visting her other restaurants. There was always several, not just one item that stood out on her menu, but with all the different dishes ordered that night, the only thing that stood out was her Mac n' Cheese. My advice, skip it and go to one of her other restaurants. If you're looking for a nice date place, go to Second Empire or Moe's instead.
(2)Guy C.
4 of 4 stars (excellent, "posh casual" dining). (see explanation of ratings below) What to wear: depends. This place is close to the performing arts center, so you'll see some folks dressed for the opera or symphony or ballet. The night I was there, I saw a man in a tux next to a guy wearing jeans and a tee-shirt. Allow 1:10 to 1:30 depending on wait times, no dessert. We arrived at 5:40 on a Friday and waited about twenty minutes before we were seated. About $30 per person, no dessert, no booze, gratuity not included. This is a tough place to categorize. The food is fine dining. The founding chef (is she ever there anymore?) is a Beard Award finalist. But, the atmosphere (menu on chalkboards, lunch counter seating) is more casual. It's loud and they don't take reservations. So, I'd say it's in the "posh casual" category, much like The Admiral in Asheville, eligible for four stars, but not five. I'd tell you what we had, but the menu changes so much it wouldn't do you any good. Safe to say: you can't go wrong with any choice (we never have). A few perennial faves which have been on the chalkboards since day one: the mac and cheese (enough for 2-3 people) and the Royale (a burger rendered in duck fat). Free parking across the street. About my ratings: Only fine dining establishments can garner five stars. Until yelp realizes that a fast food joint cannot possibly be ranked equally with a $100 per person place, I need to draw the line somewhere. If we were only talking about the quality and presentation of the food, it would be a different story. But, as we know, yelp's rankings take into account the entire dining experience. Therefore, I divide restaurants into three categories (and I wish yelp would do the same): 1) fast food and "fast-casual" (no table service ) 2) casual and "polished casual" dining (table service) 3) fine dining (linen napkins, no plastic cups, no TV's in dining room, typically more expensive than casual dining) Fine dining can earn a max of five stars. Casual dining can earn a max of four stars. Fast food can earn a max of three stars.
(4)J A.
This is foodie heaven. You can't go wrong with whatever you order - especially the macaroni au gratin. The service is also impeccable. The 4 instead of 5 star review is only because they don't take reservations, so good luck!, and because it is so very loud.
(4)Meredith D.
Last night was my second experience at Poole's, and it was just as good as my first (in May 2011) if not completely different. I dined with my brother and his girlfriend. We arrived before the first seating at 6 p.m. Poole's actually opens before so that patrons can sit at the half-moon bars and enjoy pre-dinner cocktails. I tend to drink wine and beer, but I was in the mood for a cocktail. The only problem is I don't really know what kind of liquor I enjoy. The bartender was so great. He went through all dozen specials on the chalkboard and gave his personal recommendations. My bro's gf ordered the Kentucky Frog (I think), and it was delicious. I gave the A.C.S. #2 (I think) a try. Because, as I said, I don't partake in liquor too often, it took a while for the drink to grow on me. It was made from vodka, grand marnier, green tea, and honey syrup. I could tell the drink was very well made and was strong enough that that was all I needed for the night. Well worth the $9. We were seated promptly at 6 p.m. and had the same waiter we had all had before! I remember him being great, and he was still great this time. Everything was delicious. I ordered the beet salad ($10) with goat cheese, pumpernickel croutons, and another white vegetable I can't think of at the moment. My entree was the striped bass ($21), and it came with a roasted tomato base and cured olive relish. Everything went to well together. All three of us were in the clean plate club. My brother enjoyed his pork ($18) (I don't remember the details because I didn't try it) and his girlfriend enjoyed a 10 oz. fresh ground burger ($13) with grilled bread, smoked cheese, and tasty jus to pour all over. We all shared a side of garlic baby bok choy ($7). For dessert, my brother's gf and I shared (and quickly devoured) the apple pie. It was literally made from apple slices and had shortbread crust. The buttermilk vanilla ice cream and caramel syrup was my favorite part of the dish. I think I liked it a little better than my bro's gf, but she is a talented baker and probably has her own critiques. I should also mention how much I love the ladies' room. It's stocked with bobby pins, feminine hygiene products, cotton balls, and lotion that I've seen for sale at Parker & Otis in Durham, so I know it's not cheap. I'll definitely be back to Poole's. I love the colored lights and the ambiance. I'd be back more if it wasn't so pricey. However, I know that it is well worth the price because the ingredients they use are top notch, as is the preparation of the dishes.
(5)Neil H.
We were a party of four. The ambiance is just OK. There is so much more that I think they could do with the space. But that is a side note to the food. We had the Mac and cheese as an app. And to be honest I don't see what all the raves are about. It was good but not something I would go out of my way to get again. We had three different entree's and we all said our entrees were salty. To the point where we didn't eat all of our food. dessert was very good. But for the money as well as the wait it isn't a place I would go to again.
(3)SS J.
Wow! I am so impressed with Poole's. I was referred to Poole's by a colleague of mine local to Raleigh and am so glad that I went. From the outside, Poole's didn't look like much but once I walked through the doors I was enchanted. The décor is like walking back in time and the presentation of the menu adorable (written on chalk boards around the restaurant). Our server was prompt and we never had to ask for anything. The food, was SPECTACULAR. I had the roasted chicken with Yukon mash and their legendary macaroni and cheese and OH MY GOODNESS, I was in heaven. The chicken was moist and full of flavor, the potatoes were to die for and the mac and cheese was so good I took a picture of it and sent it home saying it was the best I'd ever had (and that's out of a lot of mac and cheese). One cool thing was the bathroom. Now, I know that sounds strange but it's true. The bathroom was immaculate! Available for patron use were all sorts of products that one might need while out on the town. The only time I usually see this assortment is when an attendant is present that expects a tip for the use of the products but such was not the case here and I was impressed. The mix of people in this place with varied ranging from young college students to older patrons of all walks and creative styles of dress. I loved the vibe here, loved the food and HIGHLY recommend that you stop in if you're in the area.
(5)Lisa G.
My first experience at Poole's was pleasant, it left a good impression on me so I decided to go back, but it was long before the review in the News & Observer came out. I'm not sure Poole's is ever NOT busy. With that said, trying to have dinner with 8 friends is nearly impossible. The restaurant is incredibly hot and stuffy, making it very uncomfortable to attempt to dine in. It is so small and cramped inside forget ever having to use the restroom, it's hard enough getting in and out of your table. The wait staff has an arrogance to them, I read a post below where it says, "they act like they're doing you a favor" they absolutely do. I picked the Royale, I had heard good reviews from friends. I ordered it medium-rare. I know what medium rare means, but it came out so outrageously pink, I think the meat in the middle was still raw. At $13 this is the most expensive over-glorified burger I've ever ordered. A side? You pay for that. Bread before dinner? You pay for that. To sneeze? I'm sure there is a charge for that as well. Maybe things at Poole's will change once the owner's other locations will open, but for now I have no desire to go back.
(1)Matt K.
I've been to Poole's 3 times and loved the food every time. However, 2 out of the 3 times that I have been there, the hostess seated people that she knew ahead of us even though we arrived before them. For a place that doesn't take reservations, this seems inappropriate.
(2)Zuri S.
The diner feel of this place is great if you're someone who likes the idea of diners but can't quite stomach greasy diner food. The menu on the chalkboard is pretty annoying, but if you don't mind craning your neck a bit, it's worth staying. It's also worth it to just ask the waiter what he/she recommends. The service is great and all of the waitstaff seem pretty knowledgeable about the menu and wine list. The mac and cheese is great, but for something a little less heavy, the scallops are amazing as well. They come perfectly seared with fresh, caramelized cauliflower. The crowd is a bit hipster, but seems to be only significantly so late at night. If you've got something against hipsters, go earlier in the evening. Overall, a great place for a weeknight dinner.
(4)Dave S.
I'm glad that I stumbled upon this in the local paper, I'm always looking for good places to go while visiting family in the Triangle. It's nice to find a place like this, where the menu changes based on what's available and what's in season. I like the chef to take me in the direction that they want to go, to me that's the fun of it. I wasn't at all disappointed with the experience, though a little research helped with that. If you're in a hurry, then don't go. Get there just before they open and get your name in if you don't want to wait too long. As everything is made fresh, it takes a while for the food to arrive; but the good beer and cocktail selection helps with that. It was a tough choice, but I went with 2 appetizers instead of a main; chicken liver pate and beet/avacado/blue cheese salad. My companions had roasted chicken and a lightly battered flounder. All of it was very good, and we made it a point to try the mac & cheese which didn't disappoint. Get there early for another reason: the dish may sell out before you get a chance to order. When I was there the pork belly was gone almost immediately(no surprise there). As we were leaving, the place was absolutely packed with people at the bar waiting to be seated, and it was only 7:30. Enjoy the atmosphere, take your time and you'll love it.
(4)Lisa S.
Food is great but the service too snotty. We received a lecture from the hostess that forced us to change our dining plans for the evening. Won't be returning.
(1)Andy F.
Food is good but not great. Always packed, difficult to get a drink, difficult to find a place to stand and have your drink, difficult to order without written menus, and difficult to park. Not what I call a relaxing evening.....rather pay $30/meal elsewhere.
(3)JT B.
Cute crowd, amazing drinks, very friendly staff, however, limited choices on the menu for picky eaters (like myself), I only eat chicken, but still a fan. There is a wait, but grab a cocktail and chat up the locals outside while you wait to be seated. Overall, I go for the atmosphere and the drinks.
(4)Reagan W.
Family of 7 had dinner last night. Had a very good meal with excellent service--just the right amount of attention. Food was excellently prepared and presented. Everything is a la carte so the cost of the evening is on the higher side. I had a specially prepared vegetable plate that was good though a bit too starchy. I didn't specify what vegetables I wanted and took the chef's choice. Red peas were very nicely done and so were the sweet potatoes. The cooked grain (bulgar?) with the porcini mushrooms was especially tasty. The roasted tomatoes were a bit sour. The cooked spinach would have been a better complement. I had the bread pudding for dessert. It had a very nice crumb topping that was really nice. The 'pudding' itself was too heavy and not sweet enough for my taste. The creme fraiche topping did not work. Overall we enjoyed ourselves and it was a nice evening. The big criticism for Poole's is the noise. Maybe at the bar seats it is less noticeable, especially if there are just two of you. With table seating, noise really compromised our enjoyment of conversation.
(4)Tim H.
Our first experience at Poole's was awesome. Fantastic food, nice, eclectic setting and crowd. The menu is on chalkboards, which I applaud from a waste perspective (no hassles printing and updating a fast changing menu) but depending on where you're seated can be hard to read. If you're looking for something a bit different in Raleigh check out Poole's. We'll definitely be heading back.
(4)Stacey V.
I cannot say enough about how amazing this place is. I have lived in Raleigh my whole life, and this is hands down my favorite restaurant in the Triangle. The food is ALWAYS superb, the waitstaff is great, and I swear they have some of the best cocktails I've ever had. Everything I've ever had there is always delicious and leaves me wanting more. If I could eat there every day, I probably would. I am so looking forward to Ashley Christensen's new restaurants downtown, scheduled to open later this summer.
(5)Molly R.
Wow wow wow....the food was amazing!!
(5)Bob H.
From the outside you would not even notice this restaurant, or if you did you would probably keep going. We were very pleasantly surprised by the wonderful food. The chef ranks up there with the best in Raleigh. They change menus often enough that everything is written on blackboards. I've eaten there twice and had great meals both times, as did those dining with me. My only complaint is that iced tea isn't offered, but if you ask for their hot tea and a glass of ice they will accommodate you, and their tea is different but very good. I decided that I liked it hot or cold and by making my own I can make it just as sweet as I want. Too many restaurants make sweet tea too sweet. They only take reservations for parties of 10 or more, so if you have a group of fewer than 10 you may have to wait if you arrive much after 6 pm, when they start seating for dinner. You can sit at the bar and have a drink while you wait, however.
(4)Liza R.
Poole's is great. I have been there three times, and I love their cocktails, wine list, and unique menu set up (there are only about 5 main dishes, and they're written on a giant chalkboard on the wall. Then you choose a side a la carte). The last time we went, we happen to go on a very busy night and had a few unfortunate things happen, but all I had to do was write the manager a very nice email saying we loved Poole's, but had an out of the ordinary experience, and just wanted to let him know. He wrote back and was so nice about everything. He apologized and assured us that if we came back we wouldn't be disappointed, and he was right. We went back last night and received star treatment. If we liked Poole's before, now it's our favorite place in Raleigh. They made sure we had cocktails in hand and tasty food right away. It was hands down the best restaurant experience we've ever had. The manager really talked to us about everything and wasn't shy at all about the problems we'd had previously. We so appreciated how they went above and beyond to fix the problem, and we'll certainly go back many more times.
(5)Erin B.
One of my favorite Raleigh restaurants - menu that's constantly changing and filled with lots of local, fresh ingredients. The dishes are simple but creative; Chef Ashley Christensen is great, in my opinion, at taking a dish you know and love (say - a BLT on their brunch menu) and giving it a wow factor. Dinner is great but know before you go that they don't take reservations so unless you go early (before 7 pm), be prepared to wait or sit at the bar (which is cool, so give it a chance). Everything is prepared fresh and service can be on the slow side but to me, that's part of going. It's a food experience, not a place to eat as fast as possible and the wait is more than worth it. Come with a few friends, have something off their good cocktail/wine/beer menu and make a night of it. Brunch is probably my favorite though - Saturdays are slower, Sundays are very busy (see thing about waiting above). The homemade biscuits with homemade butter and homemade jam are to die for and I've not had anything I didn't like. Poole's is a Raleigh gem for sure and currently probably my favorite local restaurant.
(5)david s.
my poole's diner experience was fantastic. sat at the bar with clay......great bartender, very attentive especially considering he was the only bartender in a busy space. la vie en rose made with ashley's own rose water....wow it was beautiful. loved the menu setup...very similar to restaurants in france. gets you involved in the restaurant, looking around, milling about, saying hello to other tables, seeing what others are eating. ordered off of each menu to try. prices were not an issue...if that were the case, i would have stayed home and cooked. had the duck confit with a poached egg....fantastic! the salad was perfectly balanced with just a hint of saltiness that made the greens pop. my dinner date had the fried chicken, who can go wrong with that. i had the pork belly "chop"......i was in pork heaven....glad to see that a pork state is catching up to the likes of new york and san francisco. the sides which are meal unto themselves were wonderful. mac and cheese......we're not talking kraft, wonderful crusty top and HOT not warm as others like to offer. money and luck....if you don't know what that is, skip your new year's day food. all in all a treasure for raleigh.
(5)Heather B.
Gourmet Southern Style Visits: About once a month since June 2009 R-Line Stop: R12 In case you haven't heard, Poole's Diner is owned by the chef, Ashley Christensen, who recently appeared on Iron Chef America. Yes, a local, self-taught chef competed against Bobby Flay on national television. Wow! She didn't win the competition but she showed such poise and creativity and I would be very happy to eat the dishes she prepared with Chum Salmon. I lived in downtown Raleigh for over a year before I made it to Poole's Diner which was due to my ignorance. I'm not a big fan of 'diner' food so I avoided Poole's Diner. Soooo stupid of me to let the name of a place keep me from checking it out. Big mistake. Poole's is so much more than a diner. It's an eclectic gem of gourmet southern cuisine. The first time Andy and I had dinner at Poole's, we were speechless after our dining experience. We lazily strolled home with full bellies and happy grins. Since then, Poole's is one of our favorites. The menu is not posted on their website because it changes frequently depending on what is in season or available from the local farmers and artisan producers. I think it's quirky and fun that the menus are displayed on big chalkboards throughout the intimate restaurant. Depending on where you are seated, you may need to get up to get a better view of the menu board. When you first enter the restaurant, there are two half-circle bars with retro diner bar stools. Since Poole's follows the first come, first served policy (no reservations), the old fashioned bar is a great place to enjoy one of the fabulous homemade, signature cocktails or a glass of very fine wine. My go-to cocktail is called "She's The Fastest" with gin and elderflower liqueur (however, I always ask for vodka to be subbed for the gin). I can't name a favorite wine because the wine selection also changes frequently spearheaded by their wine steward, Fern. I enjoyed all the wines I've had the pleasure to drink at Poole's. Speaking of wines, I recommend that you attend one of the wine dinners. They are pricey but worth it. We attended the Seafood and Cool Summer White Wine dinner in June '09 and it was A-mazing! The angels did sing! I usually start my meal with a salad or small plate. Recently, I had sliced heirloom tomato and avocado liberally drizzled with a subtly spicy chili oil. Sort of basic summer ingredients but the freshness and combination of flavors were very pleasing. Most often, I order a fish dish as my entree. I particularly enjoy the scallops or the fried flounder. The scallops are cooked to perfection. Normally, I don't eat fried food but I make an exception for Ashley's fried fish and chicken. The fried fish has a very light batter that is very crunchy while the fish is super moist and flaky. Some magical sauce that is out of this world always accompanies the fish. I have never even heard of pink-eyed peas before dining at Poole's and Ashley performs wonders with them. The entrees are served with a small side item but some folks may wish to order additional sides to share such as the most incredible Mac-n-Cheese. It is very hardy so plan to share it. I can't comment on the desserts because I am always at max capacity by dessert time. Poole's Diner is a downtown Raleigh icon. See for yourself why Poole's has earned national praise.
(5)Arable M.
Dining at Poole's is a unique experience for sure. Small bustling artsy diner packed with people having a true dining experience. Their dishes are well prepared with fresh ingredients and the touch of a talented chef. The salad was perfect and the Mac & Cheese is to be celebrated. I feel a bond with Foodies who share this experience.
(5)Steve K.
Not what I expected when was told we were going to a diner in downtown Raleigh. I'm used to diners/chili parlors that are typically surrounded by folks looking for a greasy burger, cheese fries, and some serious chili. Not Poole's, hell no not Poole's. Poole's is a diner with a gourmet kick in the pants. When you first visit Poole's its intimidating. No bones about it. From the chalkboards, to the wall to wall people, to looking like an ass when you say you don't have a reservation and its 7PM. Incidentally, it's all really simplified. You walk in, there's the menu, get your sides, and you're good to go. Pending you get the opportunity to sit down. In my case we were told about an hour or so which was okay because during that time I can drink one of the outstanding craft brews they carry. I mean who doesn't like to do that? I'm the type of person who hears flight delay, and immediately thinks a 24oz draft beer from the airport B&G. Back to Poole's, and about that menu. Yes Poole's is cheap, yes Poole's is expensive. Can you get out of there under 100.00 yes indeed. Should you? No you shouldn't. The sides are just too damn good to pass up. 2 people with drinks, main courses, and sides is easily 100.00. Now, the sides are big enough to share. In my opinion 1 side feeds 2-4. You get up to 3, or 4 people in your party and it becomes more cost effective. Not sure about the love it or hate it reviews for them. I thought it was great personally. Killer menu that although small, has something for everyone. The food was gourmet quality, great plating, very fresh ingredients. In fact I had the opportunity to chat with Ashley Christensen that night, and after raving over the sweet corn veloute she told me how they use all the corn cobs during the process to create the stock. What you are paying for is freshly made food, versus a back of corn chowder heated up in a crock pot. A passion for cooking is what drives her, and it shows in her creativity and style. Pretty cool that a chef who went up against Bobby Flay (Iron Chef America) actually goes in and cooks in her own restaurant eh? I could throw a rock and hit 10 other places where you aren't getting the same price point for equivalent food quality and experience. It's also likely you'll be getting your "gourmet" meal cooked by a guy who was just serving moons over my hammy at Denny's a month ago. Not a Poole's, no way. Make sure you loosen the wallet and waistline, and order the mac and cheese! You'll be swimming in Poole's best side dish, and likely the best mac and cheese ever.
(4)Sam J.
Overpriced as shit. Mac & cheese was great. Drinks are done right. Couldn't tell you 'bout any entrees cause I'm not made of money. $20 for a tiny entree? Fug dat
(3)Steve M.
I'm glad I finally made it to Poole's--I've always heard good things, and I've wanted to try it for a long time. You'll want to arrive earlier than you plan to eat, and have your entire party before asking to be seated. It's expensive--know that going in. It's not so much expensive in general as it is just pricey for what you get. First, the vibe. Poole's is intimate and loud simultaneously, dimly lit with a bar in the front and tables along the side and in the back. The menu changes often, and is written on chalkboards placed around the restaurant, just in the right spots to cause one to awkwardly stare over a couple having dinner. I'll call the vibe "Throwback Hipster Diner". The cocktail menu is good. I tried the apples on rye--rye whiskey with apple brandy, bitters, and orange. The cocktails are good, but not amazing. (If you want a great one, stick to beer at dinner and go to AC's Fox Liquor Bar for a nightcap.) The beer and wine lists are solid. Our table started with chicken pate (served with mustards, onion jam, and cornichons), and the pimento cheese. The pate was great--the pimento cheese was spicy (good) but super salty (bad). For entrees, we shared a rabbit with pappardelle, brussels sprouts, and a poached egg, and a halibut over potatoes with a tomato topping. Both were very good, though the poached egg on the pappardelle was a bit under-cooked. The highlight of the meal, by far, was the mac and cheese. Holy crap. It was near perfect. Go give Poole's a shot, but manage your expectations a bit.
(4)Kris T.
It's completely unnecessary for me to review Poole's, because there are a zillion rave reviews already. But, I'll add my two cents. I've had brunch at Poole's dozens of times - and it's great - but it had been ages since I ate dinner there. I met a friend there last week, no reservation, but we found seats at the bar. We had pimento cheese and bread (crack!); fried oysters (divine!), and I ordered the rabbit confit entree - an umami explosion of beans, orzo, rabbit fat infused throughout, with shreds of tender rabbit included. There was something so perfect for the fall season about that dish. Our drinks were great as well, both specialty cocktails and classics. Service can be a little slow, because Poole's is pretty much always busy. And I've encountered a bit of attitude among the staff, mostly the hostessing staff, especially during brunch for some reason. But my recent trip was pretty flawless and a good reminder that it's worth a splurge to dine there more often.
(4)Luis A.
I am not sure what the hype is about. I have come here twice now and nothing special to eat. I can't even remember what I ate. I hear the food is local so that is a plus. The lines can be super long if you do not get there on time. The menu is on the board in chalk so remember to go stand right next to someone eating and bother them while you are trying to read what's for dinner.
(3)Matthew G.
Did lunch/brunch at Poole's with my wife for a change of pace from the typical items you can get on Glenwood South. I had been to Poole's once before for dinner and while the food was good, the scene was a bit hectic. Brunch was a bit more easy going. Also they have a reserved lot across the street. Having missed the Mac Au Gratin last time I was there (was going to a cheese fest across the street) and having heard much about it, I decided to order that while my wife settled on the Pumpkin Hotcake. Both items were massive and both were delicious and wonderful comfort foods. I believe I had my ration of dairy and cheese for the month of December and will make note that next time this is a dish to be shared a bit. My wife enjoyed her hot cake. She did not realize at first that it wasn't pancakes but like an oversided hoecake. The server was accomodating with putting the syrup and the large helping of whipped cream on the side. However upon boxing up the leftover, she smushed it all together in a chinese takeout carton. Perhaps not the best way to send your guests home with their leftovers.
(4)Elisha M.
I met a couple of friends and my boyfriend at Poole's Diner after work yesterday to reconnect and celebrate my upcoming birthday. I arrived just before 6pm and was very lucky to get a street parking spot right in front of the diner. That will probably never happen again, what a birthday treat! The seating hostess would not seat our party until we were all there, so we had some time to chat and take in the decor. The restaurant is beautiful with dramatic red lighting, a pressed tin ceiling, a candle on each table, and a nice looking full bar at the front of the restaurant. When our 4th arrived we were seated at a booth in the back. We were a little off set by the chalkboard menu written up on the wall, but it was not uncomfortable to stand up and read it. We started off with drinks (they don't serve iced tea!) and we shared the Macaroni Au Gratin, which had a good top crust, but other than that I have had much better elsewhere. On a good note, I ordered the Tuna dish for dinner and it was delicious! We were too full for dessert, but the offerings sounded enticing. The prices were too high for my budget, but it is a nice place when you want to treat yourself. I would have liked to see their daily menu on their website of Facebook page. I would be interested in going back for brunch, but would keep this on the "special-occasion-dinner" list for dinner.
(3)Jim R.
4.5- what to say about Poole's that hasn't been said? This place is great- my fAmily split a tomato salad and baguette for apps and both were great. For the main dish we had Mac and cheese ( the best in Raleigh) and a flounder and chicken dish. The flounder and chicken were both tasty. I enjoyed the chicken more. The drinks and wine were awesome as always.
(4)Ron W.
Will the second visit to Poole's Diner be a charm? I had brunch here a couple of months ago and was a bit underwhelmed. But I kept on hearing how great this place was so tonight was my return visit. The place was really busy for a Wednesday night, I grabbed a seat at the cool, horse-shoe shaped counter for dinner. As noted elsewhere, the menu is seasonal southern and hand-chalked on a blackboard. They had a lot of delicious-sounding dishes, I immediately settled on the pig and cabbage (yeah, it sounds awful but it had a more interesting name that I can't remember!) for my entree. Service was a bit slow, Pooles seemed under-staffed for the unexpected Wednesday crowd! (rare problem for a restaurant to have nowadays!) Started off with tuna carpaccio (thinly sliced raw tuna) with onion rings. Really unusual combo, but it worked for me! My pig n' cabbage was basically slow roasted/braised pork, sort of like NC barbeque. Delicious stuff, very delicately flavored and in my opinion, a lot more tasty (blasphemy!) than BBQ. But the piece de resistance was the mac n cheese. Way better than the first time I had it, the mac n cheese had a beautiful crust and they did a much better job baking it! I left Poole's Diner happy, full and impressed. Everything was much improved from my first visit and the constant flow of people into Pooles validated my thoughts. While the service could have been better, Pooles definitely delivered on the food and flavors tonight!
(4)Hunter M.
Dinner at Poole's was a great experience. One of my favorite restaurants in Raleigh. Food was spot on and the service was great. The place is very noisy but that is one of my favorite parts; very energetic.
(4)Craig F.
Probably the best restaurant in Raleigh. The chef is amazing. Don't forget to get the macaroni and cheese.
(5)Kathleen F.
Probably my favorite foodie destination in Raleigh. The food is always seasonally tasty and the sit at the counter diner feel is a fun way to eat something other than 50 cent hot dogs.
(5)Leo B.
Amazing inventive food. The best chicken the world. Most of all they provide phenomenal service and truly care about their patrons and community. Without disclosing personal details, my wife and I had one of the greatest nights in Raleigh at Poole's.
(5)Mari H.
Busy brunch. Short wait, totally by luck. This place is delicious and the locals know it. It's small and cozy and worth the wait and the read-the-board-for-the-menu type inconveniences. Be sure to get the specials before ordering. Better for young adults, less than 4 person groups, drinkers, foodies. Don't go expecting huge portions or a place to spread out.
(4)Eric S.
I'm really conflicted about this review, but I definitely do understand the appeal of this place and why it is highly rated: - food tastes great - desserts are amazing (our party tried all 3 and loved them all) - friendly, helpful (and attractive!) waitstaff - easy parking across the street - great bottled beer selection, with a few local beers on draft - mac and cheese is one of the best I've ever had However, I can't get away from the following issues which left my an unhappy customer: First, there are only 4-5 entrees to choose from. This is fine if you see something you like, but if you can't then you are out of luck. In addition, all of the entrees were ridiculously small. My $20 entree had 3 shrimp and 4 mussels and was smaller than my morning bowl of cereal. The dish was advertised to have pork shoulder in it but I couldn't find any in my bowl, probably because the bowl was ridiculously small and I did not bring my magnifying glass. The prices are also a little absurd. $9 for a small plate of rather bitter vegetables seems excessive. So does $11 for 3 deviled eggs. Yes, that is THREE. My 100 lb. wife and I spent $75 after tax and tip and neither of us was full after the meal, which consisted of appetizer, entrees, and desserts. So to sum it up, if you are a tiny person with a tiny appetite, you probably will like this place. But if you eat more than a mouse, prepare to leave hungry and with your wallet significantly lightened.
(2)Joel R.
Poole's is basically a modern upscale diner. Kind of a retro-hip place with chalkboard menus and lots of seats at the bar. The food is very good, mostly basics executed well. Good selection of both meat and vegetarian options. This place would be right at home in a city like Portland. Prices are reasonable. Service is friendly and gets the job done. Highly recommended.
(4)Tara H.
We had one of the most incredible life experiences here. The place just feels like a really hip version of home. It's comfortable and you want to belong. The staff is warm and professional. Matt - who loves wine - a lot - stunned us with 3 wines that we had never heard of before, all of which were great. Ah, and then the food: craziest, creamiest mac n cheese in the world. Fried green tomatoes with lump crab meat. Are you kidding me? Home made pickles and pickled green tomatoes. Duck confit with dirty rice cakes - divine. Fresh asparagus. Duck pate that was like silk. And the list goes on. Chef Ashley is a rock star and is going big places. If you are lucky enough to eat there. Enjoy. If you don't live in the area and you are a foodie, make the pilgrimage.
(5)Cassandra N.
So happy to find Poole's. The food, service, and ambiance are perfect! Everything we had was fresh and delicious. Our waitress was awesome. Very attentive and made perfect suggestions. We'll definitely be back!
(5)Tisza H.
what a find! an interesting little place that has their menu on a chalk board on the back wall and seats at an old fashioned diner counter as well as some small tables. This place is popular and packed and doesn't take reservations, unfortunately. it did not take us too long to get a seat however. We heard the mac and cheese was a "must try' from a regular, so we tried that. maybe I'm just not the type that goes gaga for mac & cheese, but it was just good to me...nothing spectacular. my friend agreed. it's a huge portion though and they were very nice about accommodating my request for hot sauce. hey, don't knock it until you tried it...yum!! everything else we ordered was delicious. it's been a few weeks, but i recall ordering the pate and an heirloom tomato salad. we shared everything and we both thought it was good enough to come back another time and check out some more options. Try it out, you won't be sorry.
(5)Rob P.
Food was inventive and delicious. We ordered 2 entrées and two sides for two people and this was a lot of food. We wanted an early dinner so arrived at five and enjoyed a Ponysaraus at the bar. It was a good way to dodge the crowd.
(5)Alvin J.
Went to Poole's Diner this Saturday. Heard it was one of the best spots in Raleigh to get good food. Looked up the hours before hand because I heard it gets busy quick. The bar opens at 5 and dinner starts at 6 so I showed up at 5:30 thinking I'd be early for dinner. Nope. Already nearly 40 people on the list for dining room seating. The staff was nice though and explained the process, At 6 we would be seated at the bar for dinner since the dining area was full. So first recommendation for anyone planning on going. Get there at 5 if you want to sit at a table. At the bar my wife ordered a French 75 (Hendricks gin, sugar, champagne, and lemon juice) and she loved it not to sweet or sour, very crisp and refreshing. For dinner we got sides of their macaroni and cheese and sweet potatoes. Thought I had to try the mac n cheese since all the other reviews raved about it. I thought there might be a new twist to it, but no its just plain mac n cheese. Its not my favorite food but those who like mac n cheese will love it. It is a large helping, and there is a crispy top layer of baked cheese with a smooth creamy texture underneath. My main course was the buttermilk fried chicken and the mashed yukon potatoes. It was delicious and the chicken was well seasoned and moist. The mashed potatoes were extremely smooth and complimented the chicken perfectly. My wife had the scallops with farro and cauliflower, and comments that the scallops were tender and not over cooked and again nicely seasoned. The farro and cauliflower were bland but balanced the intense flavors of the scallops well. The atmosphere is very casual which which is nice for some and misleading for others. I have seen the mixed reviews already given for this restaurant and some complain of the prices. Again I think some of this has to do with the atmosphere of a casual diner/bar where you would not expect to spend a lot of money yet the entrées are $13-20 and the sides $3-9 so it is easily a $60 dollar meal for 2 people. I enjoyed my meal and was luck that I got there semi-early enough to at least be seated at the bar for dinner, but I doubt I'll frequent this restaurant because I also think the food/atmosphere wasn't at a level that would justify the expense or hassle of dealing with the crowd.
(3)Lauryn C.
A true gem for Raleigh. My sister has not shut-up about this place since her first visit and I know her taste - I had to make a special trip to the Capital City to check it out. This place is unique, it's classy, it's retro, and it's got great food. No menu's needed here just check out the chalkboards when you walk in a list of starters, entrees, and sides will be waiting. The chef is an inspiration to me - with no formal training she has turned her passion into an amazing career and has been nominated several times for a James Beard award. I wish I still lived in Raleigh to be able to enjoy this joint more often. I promise you will not be disappointed - well unless of course you don't like crowds and don't like waiting. The restaurant is small and has few tables so be prepared to wait (it's well worth it). If you happen to come in one night and they are serving the avocado and beet salad just say yes please - I have been craving this dish since I left and have tried duplicating it multiple times in my kitchen. And even if you don't think you like mac n cheese it's a must at Poole's.
(4)Amy H.
I had decent experience at Poole's, but I am not giving it the 4 or 5 stars I'd like to give for one reason: I am tired of restaurants refusing to seat you until your entire party arrives when the restaurant is half empty. This practice is completely understandable if they are busy, but at the time we arrived, they were not. I dislike this practice because it's not welcoming and it makes no financial sense. if you have available seating, you should be putting people in those seats so they start running up tabs. Who's making money if myself and 3 of my friends are hanging out by the front door? No one! Once we were seated, we did have a very pleasant experience. I finally found a decent Dark 'n Stormy in Raleigh! The mac and cheese lived up to the hype and my dinner companions also enjoyed their meals. This restaurant is good for groups in theory - they have a large bar area and tables that can be moved together, but I have a feeling that they would prefer if you didn't. If there's only 2-4 of you, go here. Any more than that, you might want to try a place that's more welcoming to groups. Also, I wish they would print off a few copies of the menu for people who may have trouble reading the boards. We read the menu to my grandmother who could not see the boards well.
(3)Alexis S.
The food is amazing here. I love the farm-to-table concept so everything is fresh and original. I had Duck con Feit and it just melted in my mouth. The mac n cheese is the best in Raleigh hands down. The only downside is the wait time for a table. Because its such a small and cozy restaurant the demand for it is much greater than the supply. I had to wait an hour for a table and we couldn't wait at the bar and have drinks in the meantime because they have a waiting list for the bar as well. By the end of my meal, I had forgotten about the long wait beacause it was well worth it.
(4)Calvin P.
I was there on a Saturday night, admittedly during he dinner rush. But it was hot and crowded and loud to the point of needing to yell. It was also too dark for my taste, especially since one of there trademarks is not giving you menus but making you walk over to a common blackboard to see the menu. So I'd definitely plan on going a little later after the dinner rush has thinned out some. If I was rating Poole's just on the food, I'd be very tempted to give them 5 stars. I guess the tag line for Poole's is "upscale comfort food" and that fits fairly well. I had the spare ribs and gnocchi. The meat was more on the savory side than tangy side compared to most spare ribs I've had. But I'm not complaining it hit the spot. The gnocchi added a simple but effective balance. It was a meat and potatoes meal but very flavorful. The other people in our party had the duck and sea bass which everyone raved over. We ordered two side dishes family style. Of course we had the mac and cheese which actually tasted like cheese instead of butter and cream and it had just the right amount of (as my fiancee calls them) "crusties" on top. It was all great, honestly. But the dish that had me raving the most was the second side dish, the greens and garlic. There are so many ways to screw up greens, so many pitfalls to avoid, so many temptations to corrupt them, I'm always surprised and shocked when they are done right. These greens were amazing. No too wilted, not to crunchy. Or maybe I should say just the right mix of wilted and crunchy. Not too juicy or sloppy, but you got that good strong taste of greens from the juicy leaves which, after all is what you're supposed to be tasting. I'm pretty sure there was garlic in the greens but not so much that it overpowered the greens. (And in any other circumstance I'd say you can never have too much garlic!) I enjoyed all the other dishes, but the greens _impressed_ me. We ordered two desserts for the table. I was most looking forward to the pumpkin-bread pudding. It was a good comfort food dessert and absolutely nothing was wrong with it. But it paled in comparison to the chocolate chess pie which took me back to happy memories of sitting at my grandmother's kitchen table. Look, I am not a foodie. But maybe that just means I go into a restaurant with an open mind and reasonable expectations. From my perspective, this meal was enjoyable from beginning to end. Other reviewers have noted the relatively small portion sizes, compared to other restaurants and compared to the prices on the menu. I have to admit that the similar thoughts crossed my mind when I saw my entree. But it was ok. It was enough to feel satisfied and it wasn't a problem.
(4)Noa N.
I stopped by Poole's after work for a drink and was disappointed by the service - it was not busy and they had plenty of servers. I sat at the bar and the moment I told the bartender I only wanted a drink - he checked out. I did get my drink but he didn't follow up or show any interest in repeat business. I had to ask someone else for my check when I left an hour later. I've had dinner at Poole's before and enjoyed it but I'm not sure I'll suggest it to my friends for a night out - there are so many unique local establishments offering fine dining comfort food now who do not have unattentive staff who aren't busy.
(3)Liz B.
I love diners. They were an essential part of my adolescence in NJ, the site of many late night discussions, hijinks, and shared glances with crushes while sipping on Cokes. I have weeped many tears over the dearth of late-night diners in the Triangle, so was happy to discover this one. But...it's not the typical NJ diner, but an odd frustrating hipster pseudo-diner with upscale comfort food, as others have mentioned. First off: the atmosphere. I actually like the funky Christmas lights barely illuminating a very dark space, and the shiny, sine-wave-emulating bar/counter surrounded by tables and booths. I do not like the lack of handheld menus. As others have already mentioned, the menu chalkboards are an incredibly stupid and annoying idea. With the very dim lighting, they're difficult to read, and there's only one chalkboard each for the drinks, appetizers, and entrees, so you have to leave your seat and walk across the restaurant to see what's on the damn menu. Also, the chalkboards are placed directly over (always occupied) tables, so you have to lean over an annoyed couple who are mid-conversation as you squint and try to decipher the squiggles. As for the hipsters, both behind and in front of the bar, they don't bother me, and they're amusing to make fun of. Many of their conversations were so stereotypical, they could be extras on an episode of "Portlandia." The servers have also always been friendly to me, including when I've arrived to dine alone at the bar. I do appreciate the focus on a seasonal menu and local ingredients. But...the dishes unfortunately, to me, appear unfinished, and grossly overpriced. For an appetizer last summer, I had an heirloom tomato salad. The different tiny tomatoes burst with flavor and were delicately herbed, but...essentially it was a small bowl of a few sliced tomatoes and herbs. It was lovely, but it cost $12. Come on. Recently this winter, I asked for advice when deciding on an entree. The server recommended the chicken with mashed potatoes. It was lukewarm when it arrived, and cool within a minute or two. The chicken itself was slightly overcooked but not bad. I would have liked a crispier skin. The chicken stock to mop up the chicken was delicious. The mashed potatoes were good but unextraordinary. The portion was very small...essentially a small bit of breast and a thigh. I expected some sort of vegetable side, or something other than the chicken and mashed potatoes for $20. Nope. To get vegetables, you have to order a $10 side dish, which probably was a portion too large for one person anyway. Because it has been so highly praised, I did order the macaroni "au gratin" (mac & cheese). OK, this was delicious and definitely the best thing I ate. The crust was too salty and gummy for me, but the macaroni sitting underneath was tender, creamy, and delicious. Best mac & cheese I've ever had, for sure. Oh, and in contrast to the entree, the portion was enormous. I couldn't eat more than 1/5 of the giant bowl. For dessert, I asked the server for his recommendation and he suggested a biscuit type thing with fresh blueberries and whipped cream. Eh. The blueberries were plump and fresh, but the pastry was bland and unmemorable in flavor or texture. I credit the chef for picking out nice ingredients, but ultimately I don't find that she does much more than picking them out and presenting them nicely. When it comes to her skills with actual cooking or baking (other than the mac & cheese) I'm unimpressed. I don't think the food should be so expensive just because she chooses good quality tomatoes or blueberries. My bill for an appetizer (tomato salad), dessert (blueberry biscuit), and tap water was over $20. My bill for an entree (chicken) and side (mac&cheese) and tap water was about $30. Verdict? Food gets 4 stars, ridiculously inflated price and overall annoying layout get 2 stars, for an average of 3. There is a lot of potential here, but I agree that it almost seems to sneer at catering to the customer, and it will likely never change its arrogance (unless the hype dies down and it finds itself with a lack of loyal customers, given its annoying characteristics). You come here on their terms, and they're not going to make things more pleasant or enjoyable to draw you back, because the hype will fill the place anyway. I'd come back once in awhile when I craved their awesome mac & cheese, or perhaps a late-night drink after a show, but wouldn't bother with the rest. There are too many other good restaurants in the area with better food, better service, and better prices.
(3)Britt Z.
The food gets 5 stars, but the service gets 3. We decided to grab dinner at 7:30 on a Wednesday and thought there may not be too big of a crowd but I was sadly mistaken. As we walked in the door, every table and bar stool was full and that was a true testament to how good the food was going to be. It was only a 30 minute wait, so we grabbed a drink at the bar. I opted for the sangria and I was happy to see it was served in a big glass and it was delicious! Once we sat, we were greeted by our waitress after a few minutes and decided to order the pimento cheese spread appetizer. I had never had pimento cheese before (even after living in NC for 9 years) but I was glad I gave it a try. It was creamy, cheesy, and a perfect starter! So far my experience had been good but here's where the issues with the service began. The waitress had taken our drink and appetizer order but then took another 10-15 minutes just to get back to the table to take our dinner order. As she took our order, she didn't give us any indication that your meal takes a good 45 minutes to come, which would have been nice to know...we would have ordered more appetizers or a salad to fight off the hunger! By the time the food came were were all ravenous but my hunger was curbed by an interaction with the silver-hair, bearded guy who works there and is a total dick (or was at least on that night). When he brought out some of our food, he lowly mumbled the name of the dish he was holding but it was so crowded and loud in the restaurant we couldn't hear him, so I said "I'm sorry?" to which he replied loudly and rudely, "I SAIIID ROY-AAAAALE". That was a little uncalled for! Despite the interaction with Mr. Panties-in-a-wad, the food was AMAZIIIING! We had ordered the mac n' cheese to share as a table and I have to say, it was THE BEST mac n' cheese I've ever had! It was buttery, gooey, bubbly, cheesy goodness and we couldn't get enough! For my main dish, I had ordered seared scallops and a side of spinach. Now, I'm from MD and scallops are my all-time favorite food, so I've eaten them over 100 times and I have to say that they were some of the best scallops I've had. They were seared to perfection and flavored perfectly. I savored every bite! My side of spinach was also unbelievable. I can't say that I've had a lot of spinach in my life, but it was so flavorful and steamed to perfection - I could eat it every day! All in all I have to say that Poole's Diner lived up to my expectations....well, at least the food did. It was flavorful, fresh, and absolutely out of this world. My complaints about the service were that our waitress should have told us the food takes a long time, she also should have stopped at our table more than 3 times in the 1.5 hrs we were there, and the jerk should have an attitude adjustment. Despite the mediocre service, I will definitely continue to visit Poole's!
(4)Gordon H.
I really like the vibe of the place. The menus of chalkboard. The old diner trappings. I also enjoyed the pate appetizer a lot. Creamy and tasty pate along with crisp cornichons, mustards, and (I think) caramelized onions. Maybe we were just unlucky, though, but the entrees didn't thrill us. Part of the problem was that nothing was as hot as it should have been. I suppose we could have sent them back but that shouldn't have been necessary. In any case, I thought the various accompaniments served with the haddock pretty much overwhelmed it--including some sausage slices that weren't all that tasty. I'd be willing to give it another try but just wasn't all that impressed.
(3)Marin J.
Yum-OH Yum. I shared a few appetizers and dessert with a dining buddy. We are both foodies and we found plenty to critique and idolize here. AMBIANCE The diner itself is really retro cool. Go before sunset, and sit at the bar. Personally I think eating at the bar was the best as you get to sit pointed towards the windows and watch that moody lighting change and make you want to laugh, cry or get all Mad Men and pull out a pack of ciggies and start puffing while downing a manhattan or something. The food menus are all on blackboards, bring your reading glasses as there is squinting involved if you want to drink from the bar. They have a great eclectic selection of wines. I had Dr. somebody or anothers white wine riesling. My friend had a sangria special off the board. I could have drank hers alllllllllll night. My white wine was a nice balance of sweet and sophisticated. Her Sangria was outrageously smooth, not too sweet and full of fruity flavor but not cloying. FOOD Now on to the food. Overall there were amazingly creative adventures in seasoning and flavor combos that might feel odd but work so well that make you want to bow to the chef and salute her ingenuity and daring. She took simple homey ingredients and managed to add flair that you might not have thought to do. We had Mac and Cheese, Pork Carnitas with Lentils, Sliced Avocado with caramelized onions and Angel Poundcake with strawberries with lemon creme fraiche daubed on top. I enjoyed all I had, but had the feeling that every thing was super rich and would need to revisit my yoga class at first light of dawn the next day. The only other mini gripe was the mac and cheese.... VERY SALTY. perhaps the saucier tripped while gripping the pinch bowl. STAFF Our host was a tall chap who reminded me of a Bill Gates. He was exceptionally friendly and didn't sniff at us when we switched tables to bar. He took his time to introduce us to the unique way that the blackboard menu worked. I listened to him greet each patron and his manner was always friendly and not robotic which was cool. The bartender was really sweet. I like it when you get more than the cursory two seconds of chat. A little sociability makes my day. That's what made sitting at the bar really cool. Noise wise, I think the volume kind of escalated as the evening went on and the place grew more crowded. You may not want to pop the question here unless you are unsure of the answer. I certainly would go back. PROS Nice food Creative Menu Warm and friendly staff CONS A tad noisy Come with full purse or wallet COOL The ladies bathroom had an unusual feature. While you can simply take care of what you need to ... there are a few little primping perks available ....hairpins, q-tips, circular make up pads, and dental piks in little glass jars with silver tops. Cool!
(4)John W.
Great experience! Excellent food and great portions. You will have leftovers. Service was great. Never ran out of water. Only downside, is the place is a bit loud. Would definitely go again.
(5)Luci H.
It absolutely lives up to the hype. We knew the wait would be insane, so we showed up at the ungodly early hour of 615 on a Saturday, and lo and behold it was 90 minutes. But we lucked out and they had seating at the bar. We started with the pimento cheese plate and bibb lettuce salad, both quite tasty and not too filling for the main course. I had the Royale, which is an open-faced burger on brioche. It was... an experience. Words can't really describe it. Only rampant hand gestures interrupted by occasional drooling. The macaroni is quite tasty, and word to the wise - no matter what your server tells you, one IS enough for four people. We ordered two and barely finished one. But worth noting - it's even better at 2am post-bar hopping. I spent the rest of the evening ogling the brunch menu for a sooner rather than later return visit.
(5)Ron D.
Wow, visiting for our grand daughter's graduation from UNC and wanted a place to take a group of 6 for Mother's day. Actually the fact that they do not take reservations helped because every other place was booked. We were not disappointed. The food was fantastic. We shared the mac & cheese, vanilla hotcakes, cheese omelet, shrimp & grits, deviled eggs and eggs benedict. The mac & cheese and the shrimp & grits are the best we ever had! The service was excellent. Too bad we don't have a Poole's in Phoenix.
(5)Jay M.
If only there was a sixth star. Dinner last night rocked and we found an old wine favorite that we hadn't seen In years. Great staff, awesome food. Well done!
(5)Ethan B.
Poole's Diner was a hidden gem in Raleigh. We had one night in the small southern town and there were a few options that we could have chosen but I am so glad we chose Poole's. We arrived right as they opened (30 minutes before seating) on a Saturday night because all reviews have confirmed that a wait builds up very quickly; this is absolutely true. When we arrived the place was already crowded with people studying the menu boards along the walls and drinks flowing steadily already. Their beer selections was great and their cocktails were fresh and very authentic. The atmosphere reminded me of a diner I used to frequent in college in rural Ohio with a u-shaped low bar. The food was amazing; maybe the best I had on my week long-southern vacation. The watermelon appetizer was fresh, tasty, and very light; a perfect way to start of our meal. Next came the entrees; we had the open-faced burger, the braised chicken, and the side of macaroni and cheese. All of it was rich and filling. The burger was cooked perfectly and the cheese that was fabulous; the chicken was also cooked perfectly but the mashed potatoes were a little salty. The highlight of this place is their mac & cheese which I agree is good but not as great as I expecting. It seems like mac & cheese is always built up at restaurants where you can tell it is not Kraft quality but it takes alot to make the dish stand out. The dish is heavy on the Parmesan so it goes down very smooth and has a unique finishing flavor. (yes you can talk about mac & cheese like wine) Overall I loved the fervor of this place and you could tell it is a local gem that you would pass right up if it weren't for Yelp. I highly recommend PDD and will be back next time I'm in Raleigh.
(4)David S.
This is a place that I'm torn on and wish that I could award half stars to the review. Here's my general breakdown: Food: 4 stars Service: 2 stars Ambience: 2.5 stars We came here right before the inauguration of the Raleigh Amphitheater. The host informed us that they weren't ready to seat us but we could have a seat. We went to the back of the restaurant to sit and other person informed us that we couldn't sit because they weren't ready for us. When we asked about drinks the waitress told us to read the board above the bar. I understand that you don't have menus here but ask us what we like. A good server sells as well as serves. It also just feels a little rude to me to be told to go up to the bar and read the wall, especially when you bill yourself as an upscale restaurant. So April and I went up to the bar and read the menu. Since we were told to go to the bar we ordered from the bartender. Apparently from our server's body language that wasn't the appropriate course of action. The whole dynamic with the waitstaff was just weird. I didn't enjoy it at all. The food on the other hand was good. I had some lemon gnocchi with a ice corn and chanterelle ragout that was awesome. The gnocchi were delicate lemony pillows. The ragout was rich and sweet. One would think that the combination wouldn't balance out but it was delightful. We got the kids the roasted chicken breast with mashed potatoes and double chicken stock. They gobbled it up. April got a soft-shell crab dish that was so good that she didn't even bother offering me any. As a side we got some pommes frites with aioli and some sauteed spinach. Both were very good. The pommes frites were crispy and well seasoned and married perfectly with the rich aioli drizzled on them. The spinach was delicious, earthy and garlicky. Even the kids ate it and it earned a "It's kinda ok." from my son, who detests vegetables. April had two Poolside cocktails. She enjoyed the first one but the second had a bit of a heavy pour and was slightly overpowering. As for Decor, I would describe it as bleak. Lots of black and white with low light, but not too warm feeling. I know they are trying for stylish but the low light and color scheme said "grim" to me. Overall, the food at Poole's was good. The portions were a little small for the price, but the quality of ingredients and the technique were worth the price. However, the service left much to be desired for the price point. The price says "fine dining" but the service says "casual". The food was very good but I'd be hard pressed to come back.
(3)Steven M.
The best place for a date in Raleigh! Fresh food, bomb drinks, foodie heaven! Try to sit at the bar! Also an historic land mark
(5)Bill K.
Way over-rated! Food is mediocre at best. If you don't mind your hot food being served cold, extraordinarily high noise -forget planning on table talk- and paying way too much for everything, this might your kind of place. I'd never ever go back.
(1)Tonya P.
Dear Poole's Downtown Diner, I have seen you in the past, you went by a different name. I loved you then and I love you now. When I walked in on Sunday and you were sitting there with your fresh squeezed juice and prosecco, I thought I need to resist your charm, but I gave in. I guess you can blame it on the al-al-al-cohol. And for $5, just shut up, just.. shut up... you had me at fresh squeezed. I also loved my pimento cheese BLT loaded with beautiful heirloom tomatoes. And salt and pepper already sprinkled on.. You know what a girl wants. I think we need to take it slow. I'll call you next time I am in town. Hugs & kisses, Tonya P.S. Thanks for having all kinds of goodies in the bathroom, Plackers, hair spray, girly stuff. Maybe it's the booze talkin' but I really want you to know that I love booze.
(5)Sean J.
A few things before I start my review: 1. Seating is limited and this place get's very, very busy. They don't take reservations so get there early or expect to wait 1+ hours to be seated. 2. It's a bit on the expensive side, and their mantra is quality over quantity. Expect to eat things with exquisite flavor, but don;t expect to get heaping portions. 3. Don't let the decor fool you. Despite the chalk board menus and Happy Days-esq dinner fixtures, this is every bit a gourmet establishment. I was visiting the Raleigh area and my foodie friends took me to Poole's. They had never eaten here before (it was too crowded every time they tried to go) but had heard very good things about the restaurant. I got the Royale, and we got a plate of greens, pimento cheese and sweet corn plates to share. The pimento cheese was delicious. Served as a large pile of spreadable cheese with a side of bread. I honestly could have just kept ordering that and skipped my entree. The Royale was fantastic. A 10oz, open-faced burger covered in tangy cheese. For those on a budget, it also happens to be the least expensive entree they offer, but you won't be be getting something sub par for going cheap. The sweet corn and greens were a fantastic addition to my meal, and the servings were big enough to be shared by four hungry adults. Service is fast and helpful. They will get your order in and out in a timely manner and they are very helpful in suggesting what to pair with your meal/taste preferences. If I'm ever in the Raleigh area again I will definitely go back.
(5)G M.
I reserved this review until I had dined at Poole's a couple of times. The first meal was before a concert in the nearby amphitheater and most recently on business with out-of-town guests. First and foremost, Poole's does NOT accept reservations and during peak meal times on weekends, expect to wait a long while. If it is really busy, then the place can become standing room only to the point of where you are crowding diners seated nearer the entrance. The crowds also bring noise so your hard of hearing relative my be lost unless you adjust your schedule for off-peak dining. Bottom line: If you do not like crowds or long waits, then avoid the peak use times. My recommendation, if you have a party size of more than 2, I suggest being there when they open around 17:00, insert your name on the seating menu and chill out at the bar with a few creative and delicious drinks before they begin officially seating at 18:00 and be sure ALL your party have arrived by seating time! That gives your party plenty of time to study the menu - which is chalk-boarded on the walls while also reviewing the drink menu which is chalk-boarded above the bar. Both menus change based on seasonal availability and local suppliers. However, there are a few staples which consistently appear. So let's talk about that Macaroni Au Gratin (Mac-n-Cheese). While I am not a cheese fan, I know people who are well versed and who have ordered this dish. Their comments have been glowing "some of the best...", "wow!" and "that's REALLY good mac-n-cheese" During my last visit, I tried a sample from a friends dish and it was quite tasty so I'll go with their comments and other yelpers. If you are a mac-n-cheese fan, then by all mean try the dish! The last time I heard such raves about Mac-n-Cheese was at Hugo's in LA. While we were waiting before the concert, I had several mixed drinks which sadly were not on the menu when I returned recently. These were a) "the mile high club", b) "kent frog" and c) milan mule. All 3 were very tasty but I preferred the Milan Mule which had a Ginger Liquor - yum, yum! I'd return for THAT drink and dinner in a flash! For the meal we had mix of dishes. I had the beet salad, which is another of those mostly southern dishes - a light acquired taste. It was a wonderful mix of veggies. I also had the beet salad on another visit and I was extremely pleased both times! I also heard very positive comments about the Rabbit Confit as well Roasted Chicken dishes. I also had the Chowder which was quite good. Upon my 2nd visit, one of the guests had the "Royale Burger" which was a generous serving of beef cooked to perfection - mouthwatering just to look at. When it was delivered, the burger was streaming with juices from the duck fat also used in its preparation - lending it yet another subtle flavor - needless to say, my guest was impressed with his "burger..."! Overall, Poole's is a keeper and if you coordinate your visit to avoid the inevitable peak meal times, where the crowd WILL be overwhelming, you will have a very good diner and a few really good drinks! Before I forget, the wait staff was top notch both times I've visited for this review. Our waiter answered all the questions about the dishes and made several recommendations for the non-southern out-of-towners. The bar tenders were also quick with the drink delivery and were more than happy to open a credit-card secured tab for larger orders. Chief Ashley Christensen has assembled a spectacular combination of locally sourced food, Raleigh ambiance from the 1950's with the tin ceilings, horseshoe bars, original counters and stools and a great staff / team to deliver her vision. She has also infused Poole's with any array of delicious and varying dishes which should be savored and appreciated with all the southern charm of the complete Poole's dining experience. This is one of those times I wish I could give 4.5 stars. Enjoy!
(4)Sean H.
If a place is going to be trendy and foodie-centric, the food better be good, and it definitely is here. A nice mix of gourmet and exciting menu items combined with Southern flavors. A regularly changing menu as others have said via the chalkboard. A great place, and what should be a standby for any Raleigh residents. Big portions, great tastes, and reasonable prices for what you're getting. This is what a modern restaurant should be like, so go eat here.
(5)Matt B.
I was in town for a couple days and was taken here for dinner. This was a great introduction to some local Raleigh flavor... I really appreciated the local sourcing of their food and the ever-changing menu. Wouldn't make much of a difference for me, but I like being ethical when it's convenient for me. I had a soft-shell crab. Prepared well and tasty. The lentils were fine, but nothing I would have written home about. The cheese appetizer was really good - I had to physically restrain myself from mashing my face into the plate. The tuna tartar had too much garnish and not enough tartar; I actually had to dig to find it. It was awfully loud and crowded, and I always get really irritated when I can't get free refills on soft drinks - I'm a much happier customer when you feed my caffeine addiction. But it was good food and great conversation, so I'm pretty happy with this place.
(4)Dave R.
The service at Poole's is great. Every time I go, and I've been a dozen times or so, a very friendly face greets me at the door making the initial vibe very welcoming. The serving staff is incredibly attentive. Reading other reviews of Poole's, I think it goes without saying that the food is incredible, but more so, it's unique. Today I ordered the hotcake for brunch. Truly the most tasty but unique hotcake I had ever eaten. To describe it in words would sell it short. No wonder this place does so well. They have the high standards both with food and service, and it shows.
(4)Alex N.
No one knows diners like I know diners.. and this is not a diner. It's better. Knowing that Ashley Christensen got nominated for a James Beard award I had high expectations. This is comfort food at its best. The fiancée had this non-burger burger, with half the bun, which was perfect for her since she doesn't eat the bun anyways. I had the chicken and yukon potatoes, and it really hit the spot. Throw in a little alcohol and bam!.. best diner ever. It gets busy on most nights, so plan accordingly or prepare to wait. The host is friendly and absolutely loves to talk up the place. 4 stars for the can't miss menu, but it's a little pricey for what it is. Can't wait to try brunch.
(4)Donny M.
I recently moved to the Raleigh Metro and I heard about the restuarant in a magazine and decided to give it a try. LIterally some of the best food I have ever eaten in my life. I love how they use local ingredients and everything is cooked fresh. Frankly I was blown away by the flavor of everything I had. The owner has some other restaurants in the area that I now have to try. The hours are also very very good because I usually dont end up having a chance to go out till around the time most restaurants close so that is a huge plus. Caution this is not a typical Diner this is a unique trendy restaurant that is inspired by a diner.
(5)JJandMadeline M.
Lemme just say that Poole's makes you work for it. They won't coddle you with personal menus for your reading leisure, or a well-spaced restaurant that doesn't feel cramped. Never the less, they will entice you with an interesting space/ambience and really delicious food. Although I ate at a very small table with someone's butt very close to my face for most of the meal (they were waiting for their own table, by the bar...fyi there's only a couple tables so inconveniently placed), I'd say it was worth it, and that more importantly, YOU are worth it. JJ and I went there last month on a Friday night to celebrate our loving and mutually empowering relationship (it was the day after the Valentine's Day...a.k.a the real Valentine's day). We were lucky that V-Day wasn't on the weekend this year, allowing us to have a date night that felt like a special occasion without broadcasting to everyone else that we were celebrating a heteronormative holiday by spending money (and implying that everyone else should, too). I guess we'll have to go to Poole's on Saturday next year! We got there early like all the yelp reviews said to- arriving around 6:30 after a 45 minute drive in rush-hour traffic from Carrboro. Apparently lots of other people got there early too! The place was already packed and we had a forty-five minute wait ahead of us, which was the exact amount of time that we were quoted by the hostess. I think if you're trying to wait the least amount of time possible, and are happy eating an early dinner, the best way to do it is to get there at 5:00 when the bar opens, have a drink, and then hopefully be immediately seated at 6:00 when they begin seating for dinner. I've never tried this though, so I'm not sure if this would be a just-as-crowded affair. Here's what we had: a glass of white wine and cocktail with Tito's vodka and cava (don't remember the name) while we waited...the Tito's drink was very good. An avocado salad that featured one whole avocado, divided in halves and then julienned with a mustard vinaigrette, red onion slivers, almonds and goat-milk blue cheese (this was delicious, and being about $10 I'd say worth it if you're really giving in to a living-large kind of evening but totally not absolutely necessary...i'm glad we indulged in one of their expensive salads but I don't think we'll budget for it the next time we go). For our main course we had two of their seasonal entrees (they change up their menu 3-4 times a month based on what's locally available, with the exception of the burger, which is fixed): (1) a short rib with a red wine reduction over chopped cabbage and currants that absolutely absorbed the flavor of the red wine and meat and (2) a bass fillet that was topped with a delicious shallot and wild mushroom reduction, placed atop pureed cauliflower that was super flavorful and creamy. We shared these, and I totally recommend sharing entrees because the flavors are fantastic and it'd be a shame not to try them. The entrees were pretty medium sized- very artful and delicious foods, served in medium portions...so no left-overs. You might still be hungry, I would definitely still be hungry, if I only ordered an entree (though I hear the burger is sizeable, and a fixed item, so maybe not with that entree choice). Here's what you gotta do: get the mac n cheese. It's sooo rich. Sooo good. And huge. Split it with one other person and you will be STUFFED by the end of the meal. And if you still insist on ordering desert after that, then you are a fool like us. In addition to the idea of making blue cheese out of buttermilk and deep-frying bread pudding, JJ really dug the subversive feel of the dining experience: every element of the meal, presentation, and lay-out showed thought on the part of the restaurant, but it all also managed to challenge the expectations of what a nice dining experience 'should' be. Case-in-point: the entrees come out and our initial thought was that we're going to need to order more food. Well, actually, what JJ thought was that he could maybe convince Madeline to stop by CookOut on the way home for a burger that didn't cost 12 bucks. But as we started eating, every bite was so rich and the two dishes had such distinctive flavors that by the time we got to the review, we both wanted to describe these initially tiny-looking plates as 'medium-sized.' On top of this, a restaurant this popular 'should' take reservations, and 'should' have more accessible menus. They also probably 'should' have a laminated sign in the men's bathroom reminding all employees that they must wash hands, instead of a hand-written chalkboard notice. But every detail of the Poole's experience is designed to remind you that there is not just one inherent way a nice restaurant 'should' be.
(5)