08/01/09

A Memorable Experience

by ncalzain

What a memorable experience for me to recently have been taken to dinner at the Hayes Barton Cate when visiting Raleigh. I love the concept and the creativity. It is so nice to go somewhere unique. I think what makes it great is the fact that the owners put their heart and soul into it. It's not just a place to eat, it's a destination - great food, amazing desserts and friendly service.

• Pros: Great food and ambience
• Cons: none

04/04/09

Amazing Meals and the Best Desserts in Raleigh

by TheCitySearcher

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

• Pros: Every meal blends comfort with eclectic, desserts
• Cons: Quite literally, too many good choices

04/01/09

A gem in Raleigh's five points neighborhood

by mumsy58

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.

• Pros: best burgers and fries friendly helpful servers
• Cons: parking

03/27/09

could not believe

by rebekah25

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!

• Pros: good food
• Cons: snobby workers no parking

03/14/09

Best Restaurant in NC

by GooseGossage77

Hayes Barton Cafe is truly one of the best restaurants around...anywhere. The menu is great, but you might as well order one of the specials, as they are always top notch. Get the mussels appetizer and be sure to get dessert. No place does it with more style than Hayes Barton Cafe...

• Pros: Food, Owners, Atmosphere, Staff
• Cons: They aren't open 7 days a week

07/11/08

Hip with Old Raleigh Flare

by RaleighJohn

This spot was recommended to me by a buddy of mine who travels often. Since he said it ws tops I finally got around to checking it out. First few times I tried, I couldn't find a place to park or the wait was more than I was willing to go hungry. Finally made it in on a Wednesday night and got a spot at the bar. It's a little close for comfort when they're busy but thhe people are friendly. I ordered the fish special which was recommended by the owner and the bartender. It was terrific. My cocktails were better than I get at any restaurant in town and she's quite a looker. Makes you feel like you're being served by Rita Hayworth or something. The best part is that the "regulars" are a hoot. I guess the bar is the place to be. Everyone there knows each other by name and shares there dinners around the bar. They seem to know the wait staff, owner and bartender like family. I don't know what complaints anyone could have about the service or food. Everyone seemed very nice and eager to be of service. The owner was more than willing to share his story about the restaurant and my server was happy to tell jokes and swap stories when she wasn't busy. Nice change of pace. My only complaint would be that it gets a little hot inside and the parking in that area is a pain. I'd go back anyday.

• Pros: Food, Service and Theme
• Cons: Parking

06/13/08

A local treasure, to be sure!

by packrat537

What a great spot for dessert! While visiting Raleigh from the DC area, my partner and I were treated to some of the delicious offerings at Hayes Barton this evening. The staff could not have been more welcoming and accomodating. After having a look at the regular menu, I regretted that I'd not had dinner at the cafe this evening as well. Will be sure to swing by on the next visit. This place is a treasure!

• Pros: Great desserts. Great ambience. Wonderful staff
• Cons: None

06/10/08

Hayes Barton - THEE Destination in Raleigh Dining

by GooseGossage

I have been a customer of Hayes Barton Cafe since I moved to Raleigh about 5 years ago. Every meal I've had at Hayes Barton has been 5 star Excellent - I can say that I've never had something I didn't like. Beyond the food is the 'old time' atmosphere that makes you feel like you are in a different era - where folks have quick joke or a compliment on hand at all times. Bottom line - the restaurant has PERSONALITY. Unlike so many of today's restaurants, Hayes Barton has a 'STYLE' - it defines Raleigh. There is simply no better destination for a date with your lady or just rounding up an old crew of friends for a dinner.

Check it out and be sure to get dessert - ask for the "elvis cake"....

• Pros: Food, Service, Ambience, Vibe

05/23/08

Hayes Barton WILL ALWAYS BE NUMBER ONE IN MY BOOK!!!!

by hawkins12

This review goes out in response to the three ladies and the goat cheese ordeal. First off, I have known Frank Ballard for many years now and he is by far one of the nicest and gracious people I have ever known. I am a restaurant owner myself and understand the demanding costs of certain foods in our economy right now. Rice, pastas, and DAIRY PRODUCTS are among three of the most expensive food items out there right now. My family and I eat at Hayes Barton regularly and if there is ever a time where we have to wait a significant amount of time Frank is always wanting to buy my family and I a round of drinks, an appitizer, or dessert. I always regrettly decline because I understand the demanding costs of running a restaurant, but somehow he sneaks it in there. Ladies, if you expect to go out to eat and ask for something extra please have enough common sense to know that it will cost you a little something extra. If you are that concerned about it, who says that you can't ask the server if there is an extra charge. And if you are franting over $5 anyway, maybe you shouldn't be eating out to begin with. That is not a way to save money....Hello!!! And to address the cafe style of the place, that is what makes it so unique and popular. It is a 40s-50s themed restaurant.....but I guessed you missed that. I am sure Hayes Barton apologizes for not having the modern, Zen-like feel that everyother restaurant in Raleigh portrays. Hayes Barton is a local restaurant that appeals to many local residents. No wonder this experience happened to you, you have only been there one time. The foundation of Hayes Barton is its regular customers who eat two meals a day there, two and three times aweek. And as for the sexest comments; ladies are you really that desperate. Oh ya, the customer is always right??? Hayes Barton is timeless place that must be doing something right because they continue to pack em in. I don't forsee Hayes Barton going anywhere anytime soon.

• Pros: Wondergul owner, staff, food, and oh ya Desserts!!!!
• Cons: The customer is always right!!!

05/22/08

Rudest service ever

by howie0721

I just want to second what the past few people have said about this restaurant. I'd first like to say that I wish I could give 0 stars instead of 1. Not only was the owner, Frank, rude and confrontational, but he was also arrogant and smug, making us feel unworthy to be eating at his restaurant. And all of this was because we were charged $17 for a goat cheese salad and were never told there was a $5 charge for "extra" goat cheese. I'd be fine with paying the $5 if I really wanted the extra goat cheese, but I don't think it's unreasonable to want to have that choice - I'd like to know in advance that asking for extra goat cheese will raise the price of a $12 salad (which is already high for some lettuce, walnuts, cherries and goat cheeses) to $17 (which is highway robbery at a diner with a pharmacy attached to it). If I had known my salad w/ extra goat cheese would be $17, I would've opted for the crab cake entree, which is much worthier of a $17 price tag. The worst part about it was that we were very nice about telling the owner that the server had not informed us of the extra $5 charge. We never asked him to refund our money, and more than anything, I wanted him to know about it so they will inform customers of additional charges when they request extra of something. I also believe that the owner would never have treated us like he did if we had had a man with us - and that's very disturbing. Guess we can add sexist to his list of glowing traits.