Sipping Big Cat's "Slowpoke Rodriguez" near the bar. Photo: Mary Helen Moore/Axios
The highly anticipated restaurant Big Cat opens this week in Raleigh.
Why it matters: The new spot is the work of some of Raleigh's most interesting restaurateurs, and hopes to become a favorite for the Mordecai and Oakwood neighborhoods it's situated between.
What to expect: The tavern-style menu includes roasted North Carolina oysters, several flavors of chicken wings, fresh green salads and a tempting nine-layer dip. There's a full bar, plus soft-serve ice cream for dessert.
The interior is welcoming and warm-toned. Some of the lightbulbs are even painted orange to give the space a calming glow, the team tells Axios. More seating is outside beneath a covered patio.
There's no forgetting the name once you enter. Cat art is everywhere, including a couple of very big 3-D kitties poking whiskery faces through the walls.
Catch up quick: The ownership group — which includes the brains behind Ajja, Mala Pata and Locals Seafood — has been working on the idea since last summer.
Right now, it's mostly restaurant and bar. Wine, food and other merchandise will soon fill the shelves, so it'll also be a neighborhood market.
If you go: Big Cat opens Wednesday through Sunday for dinner 5-9:30pm. Lunch hours are coming.
1000 Brookside Dr. (GoRaleigh's Route 3 bus stops right outside.)
