3 out of 5 stars

I’ll admit I had high expectations going in – this place was featured on TV. My confessional continues: I don’t have much experience with satisfying NC BBQ, other than some home-smoked pork I had at my friend Adam’s house in Charlotte. Nothing has ever come close to that experience. Especially not this one.

Nevertheless, The Pit has a great blend of modern and historic flair to the interior, plus a nice patio. Our table of 8 seemed to enjoy their food, with the most raves going to the grouper salad and the fried chicken. Ironically most agreed the pulled pork was bland and the mac and cheese was as well. I enjoyed my crispy sweet potato fries, and the homemade baked beans with a lightly flavored accompaniment. The gratis apps of hush puppies and biscuits were both a little crisp and dry. The special mojito on the menu was a disaster.

Consensus from reviewers seems to indicate that The Pit’s strengths are the apps and sides. That’s disappointing! My search continues for the ultimate BBQ pork.

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3 out of 5 stars

Closest thing to a Jewish deli I’ve seen since I’ve been here in Raleigh. Good sandwiches, also serve breakfasts and delectable selection of desserts. They even have chopped liver, knishes, “properly steamed pastrami” according to chowhounders, as well as rugelach, smoked fish and matzoh ball soup. What’s missing? A cranky attitude, which surprisingly I sometimes miss. In boca you could always witness the retirees and waitstaff yelling at each other over something. Anyhow, I’d like to stop back here with my long island-born hubby.

From NY With Love
10511 Shadowlawn Drive
Raleigh, NC 27614
(919) 847-4484