There are few things I love more than seeing an old building in Raleigh made anew. The new Longleaf Swine restaurant at 300 E Edenton St, Raleigh is a great example of this type of transformation.
On the Outside
The small (1,879 square foot) building sits on a small (0.15 acre) lot at the corner of North Person Street and East Edenton Street. The density pencils out to a floor-to-area ratio of 0.29. Originally built in 1950 the building was previously home to the Oakwood Cafe.
As you approach the restaurant, the first change you notice is the extremely spacious outdoor seating area covered by a large butterfly roof structure. The expanded seating replaces several surface parking spaces for cars. More on that later.
The single story brick structure has been painted black – darker than the darkest deliciously charred barbeque bits – and features two large hand painted signs. The southern face of the building reads “Longleaf Swine BBQ” in large lettering while the northern face features a supersized Longleaf Swine logo.
The seating area is surrounded by large and luscious planters and a row of bike parking. By my count there is more bike parking on site than car parking. Though, if you drive there is plenty of street parking and surface parking nearby.
The approach is welcoming and while the outdoor bar was closed during my lunchtime visit, I bet it’s a lively spot to hang out after work or on the weekends.
One final detail that I really appreciated on the outside is the exterior bathroom door. The galvanized steel door features a large frosted window with the word “restroom” painted on it. I have always loved that look and not so secretly dream of having an office door with my name painted in this style, like the old-time private detective movies.
On the Inside
On the inside there is also a surprising amount of seating. The open space features an interior bar on one end with a pass through window to serve food and drink outside. On the opposite site of the space is the kitchen and food service area.
The space is well designed and I appreciate the great combination of large original windows and ample natural light provided by the new storefront and window sections that were cut into the original structure.
Looking up you can see the original wood trusses and roof substructure, which is in great shape after 72 years.
The interior walls showcase the original exposed brick. I am a big fan keeping the brick in “as found” condition with the paint from previous versions of the space.
Experience
While I came for great food, and got it, I was pleasantly surprised by the equally fantastic people running the place. I was greeted by YSU and Jonathan who helped explain the menu and my choices. The menu is a-la-carte which is great for flexibility. YSU was gleeful as she showed off her Persimmon Upside Down Cakes. The dessert looked delicious, though I chose to pass on this visit.
I ordered the pulled pork sandwich with a side of collard greens. It was out of this world! The sandwich comes with slaw on top and there are several sauces to choose from at the tables.
Conclusion
Longleaf Swine hits the marks when it comes to the food, the space, and the people. With their ample seating both indoors and out, this makes a great spot for a work group lunch or an evening hangout.
I can’t wait to go back, this time with room for dessert!
For more information about Longleaf Swing, visit their website and follow them on instagram.
