American

We've been wanting to swing by the City Beverage for months - though it has a convenient location off of Hope Valley Road in Durham, but we just never had a chance to stop by. We finally did - we were not disappointed in the food - "Lambsicles", shrimp fritters and Beef Satay. The food had a nice spicy kick to it - not overwhelmingly so, however. The price was a bit inflated for the food; the restaurant feels more like a local bar than a fine dining establishment that should be charging $20 or so for entrees.

The dishes were solid, with a good blend (but not boring) flavors. The lamb was well executed, with a perfect medium rare. The appetizers were delightful; a bit pricey at $8 to $10 each. Ingredients were par - not a quality that matches the prices. Drink menu has a nice variety, including plenty of beers on tap. I'd consider the City Beverage worth going to if you don't mind feeling like your dollar just didn't have the right reach. Then again, this is a type of place that I'd like to see stay in business too - so maybe the price is worth it.

City Beverage
4810 Hope Valley Rd
Durham, NC 27707

We made a trip to Washington DC a few years ago; along the way, we happened to stop by a random burger place off the beaten path. The place was named Five Guys Famous Burger and Fries. The floor was covered with peanut shells, but the place was otherwise clean. We ordered two burgers and an order of fries. It turns out, that these were some of the best burgers we had ever had. Made fresh, and you choose your toppings.

Fast forward a few years - Five Guys has now been in the Triangle area for a few while - our favorite is going to the actual store; but Streets at Southpoint is convenient for Chapel Hill / Durham residents. We were delighted that Five Guys is now available locally... sorry to the fast food joints; it just doesn't taste the same.