The Pit ( 4 / 5 )

The Pit is Empire Properties latest restaurant to bring to downtown Raleigh and takes over the space formerly housed by Nana's Chophouse. I'd describe it as urban BBQ and features Ed Mitchell (formerly of Mitchell's BBQ in Wilson, NC) as the pit-master.

Food - 3.5

The menu features traditional BBQ fare. Ed's specialty is open pit-smoked pig, and I must say it's wonderful. They offer a number of styles of BBQ including Whole Pig ( the traditional eastern NC style ), pulled pork shoulder, ribs, beef brisket, turkey, and others. There are also plenty of combo platters for those that really want to sample ( like me ). I had the pork shoulder, baby back ribs and beef brisket. Although the shoulder was "pulled", the meat was served in large chunks which were extremely smokey and tender. The ribs were simply amazing -- tender enough to pull apart with ease and full of flavor. The brisket was good, but it honestly didn't stand out. I sampled the vinegar-based BBQ sauce ( they also have a ketchup-based option as well ). It was excellent and much spicier than expected.

Each BBQ platter comes with cole slaw and a choice of sides which include potato salad, beans, mac 'n cheese, and other very typical items. The sides were all tasty and fresh but there was nothing exceptional or unique about the options.

Given the restaurant's location and target clientele, they offer some higher end entrees. We didn't sample any of them, but they look interesting.

The Pit offers a good range of beers and wine which is great given the large and very nice bar area.

Decor / Service - 3

The decor hasn't changed since Nana's Chophouse. It's large, open, contemporary, and a very clean look. The restaurant feels like a place worth eating out -- it's very comfortable.

We visited the Pit during opening week, and in our experience restaurants need some time before the service is perfected. Our visit was no different. Our meals took about 45 minutes which was shocking since they smoke the meat for around 24 hours. We weren't sure if they were trying to simulate the wait times in a normal higher-end restaurant, or if this was a mistake. Regardless, we surely hope they get it worked out. Otherwise, the staff was friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable.

Kid-Friendliness - 2

We brought our entire brood to The Pit and in general it was a positive experience. They provide a child's menu with good options and have high chairs and didn't look down upon us when we arrived request 2 of them. They did not have any child activities (crayons). But all in all, BBQ is a kid-friendly cuisine and The Pit offers plenty for the kids to enjoy.

Summary - 3

The Pit is an excellent new addition to the downtown Raleigh restaurant scene. Although I was a bit saddened when I learned that Nana's Chophouse is no longer with us, The Pit is a good option. Honestly, we'll likely visit The Pit more than we visited Nana's Chophouse given its better kid friendly rating.

We hope The Pit is successful in what is fast becoming one of the hottest area's in Raleigh. Hopefully there's enough critical mass now that the area will flourish.