I seldom ever speak of national chains - cookie cutter restaurants that grow like invasive kudzu displacing local gems.
However, when a unique national chain enters the area ... one has to take a bit of notice... especially for the muffins?
Mimis Cafe is famous for its yummy muffins and hearty home style meals... and it is now in Raleigh, across Capital Boulevard from the Triangle Town Center area. Located in a brand new shopping area (most of the other stores are still empty!), its a bit of a hike, depending on where you live, but well worth the trip.
Famous for their muffins - banana chocolate chip, honey oat bran, carrot raisin nut, buttermilk spice, and low fat blueberry - all the flavors are deliciously moist and tasty. The rest of their food - we had the lamb shank and jazz fest appetizer (fried zucchini, spinach artichoke dip and chicken tenders) - are just as good. Very down to earth, home cooking flavors and solid portions. The chicken pot pie could easily feed two, for example. Prices are also very reasonable.
Mimis is a great place to take the family for an easy solid meal; it reminds me of Cheesecake factory, but in a more down to earth style.
