Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
(919) 856-8551
2000 Fairview Rd
Raleigh,
NC
27608
35.8043
-78.6459
Neighborhood: University
What People Are Saying About Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
The Editor
Contributor
Citysearch
In Short
Hipsters and baby boomers enjoy this eclectic eatery. Decor inspired by the 1940s includes black-and-white flooring, red walls and silver chrome. Photos of silver-screen stars and WWII memorabilia finish the look. Burgers and fries are popular lunch items. At night, the bartender shakes cocktails and the mood starts to swing. Popular dinner dishes include the Rita Hayworth pear salad with blue cheese and raspberry vinaigrette, meat loaf with mashed potatoes and the Mile High cake.
User Reviews
TheCitySearcher
April 04, 2009
Of the many wonderful restaurants in Raleigh, my wife and I enjoy Hayes Barton Cafe about the best. There are restaurants more expensive and those less, but you won't find a place more enjoyable from both a culinary and environmental perspective than Hayes. First let me dispel any views that this is a "typical" '50's diner. It is neither typical nor '50's. Having grown up in Hollywood, Hayes Barton reminds me very much of the heyday of that town, with unique photos of talent from the Golden Age of Movies -- and not the usual ones you've seen. From that same time frame you'll find wonderful photos of WW II soldiers, their planes, and other paraphernalia -- all from either the parents or grandparents of the restaurant's staff or from people in the local community. One more thing -- the owner's father, a former cartoonist for the Raleigh News and Observer newspaper, has many of his classic comics on the wall as well. It is a fun and immersive experience that really puts you into the '40's -- even with Turner Classic Movies playing in the corner. But onto the food -- it is absolutely amazing. Order anything, and what may seem familiar will be blended with a a bit of magic that makes even the most traditional dish exciting. One of my favorite dishes is their chicken potpie -- which at other places is typically a soupy mix of peas and chicken in a mystery goop that I find nasty. But Hayes Barton takes an entirely new approach, starting with a visual- and taste-treat masterpiece of shortbread that forms the most flavorful and beautiful pastry cover you could imagine. Mystery goop is replaced with velvety smooth mashed potatoes, and the vegetables and chicken breast are perfect. The result is comfort food with an eclectic twist that is just spectacular, presented beautifully, and served up with great passion -- that staff LOVE their food and it shows in their enthusiasm. Which brings me to the staff: we've been there a number of times and already know most of the people by name. Frank, the gracious owner is right there to make certain your experience is perfect. Every member of the server staff is fun, dedicated, and will treat you like family (the good kind that you WANT there). And Carrie, the Dessert Goddess who creates the temptations that you'll see on the way in, is a doll. They are fast, courteous, generous, and fun at lunch or dinner. And lastly...I can't begin to describe the desserts at Hayes Barton. Literally the best I've had anywhere in Raleigh (and frankly, most other cities I've traveled to). There are so many unbelievable cakes that your server will take you to the display case to explain your choices. You literally have to see it all to believe it. Decision making skills required. Even if you are full from the great meal you'll have there, take home a dessert. EVERYTHING is great -- we haven't had a miss yet. There is a reason why Carrie is called the Dessert Goddess. In all, wonderful, unexpected food perfect for any season, a great twist on the diner concept that will have you smiling from the time you enter through your trip home, and a staff that will make you feel so at home, you'll never want to leave. But please do leave eventually -- WE'LL probably be waiting to get seated! We recommend Hayes Barton without reservation (but YOU might want to make a reservation)! Enjoy! by The CitySeacher
read full review
mumsy58
April 01, 2009
Just wanted write to say what a great time my sister and I had at this charming little restaurant yesterday! It is one of my sister's favorite places, but I had never been ,so when she offered to take me there for my birthday I jumped at the chance. We had the best time! The servers were so friendly and helpful. They seemed genuinely happy we were there. When I asked if there was a lot of mayo in their chicken salad the woman behind the counter offered to give me a sample. It was quite tasty, but I opted for the cheeseburger, and, let me tell you, it was the best burger I've had in a long time. And the french fries!! Don't get me started! But the best was the dessert. We were given mouth-watering descriptions of everything in the dessert case. We picked a "chocolate flourless" cake that was smooth and silky with a delicious hazelnut buttercream layer. AND the server even put a candle in it for me! Just a really wonderful experience.
read full review
rebekah25
March 27, 2009
let me start off by saying I have eaten here quite a few times and each time has been GREAT! Last week I wanted to go and try the lunch menu. I took my sister along with me because she had never been here. We both ordered a burger and 35 minutes later was still waiting. There was 2 tables occupied in the entire resteraunt. The woman at the counter forgot to put our order in so they finally brought our food out . We waited 45 minuted total and she didnt even say I'm sorry for the wait or nothing. The way they acted towards both of us was rude. I dont know if it was the way we were dressed? In casual clothes, They kissed everyne elses butt there but not ours. I just wish they would have apologized for the wait.......We will not go back there for lunch. If they treated all of their customers the same, they would be alot busier at lunch then they are. Maybe they need to get rid of the woman at the counter and the woman with blonde hair that has no personality!
read full reviewThe Details on Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery
When To Go:
Seating is limited and the small space can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Go early or keep an eye out for counter space.
Category:
Payment Methods:
Restaurant Special Features:
People Watching, Lunch Spot, Group Dining, Dine At The Bar
Cuisine:
Smoking Permitted:
No
