Restaurant News: Lutra Cafe & Bakery opens in Durham, NC
After building a devoted following through more than two years of sold-out pop-ups, Lutra Cafe & Bakery officially opened its first brick-and-mortar in Durham, NC, on June 26. Chris McLaurin’s talked-about 100-layer hash browns and sweet and savory buns now have a permanent location with good coffee and free parking at the American Tobacco Campus.
What to make sure and include in your order: the chocolate granola. I got a sample (although it’s not currently for mail order), and it was hands-down the best granola I have ever had. Maybe it’s because, well, chocolate, but trust me and snag a one-pound bag for $12.
What’s in my glass: Jalapeño Pale Ale, Birdsong Brewing Co. / Charlotte, NC
Ever since I recorded an interview with Birdsong in 2019, this has been one of my craft beer suggestions when people ask. It’s a West Coast-style IPA, but light. I love the fresh-cut flavor of the pepper without the heat that comes through; that’s because the brewers remove the seeds from locally-sourced peppers before using them in the beer. And since the brew clocks in at a 5.5% ABV, you can stock the cooler without crashing out at your cookout.
Recipe share: Herby Fried Corn Salad
