Revolution

Address: 107 W. Main St.
Phone: (919) 956-9999
Web site: http://www.revolutionrestaurant.com/
Price: $25-$65; If you have to ask...
Recommended for: Fancy Dining, Cosmopolitan Atmosphere, Creative Drinks, Impressing a Date

The Blahgger says:
"Extra, extra! Swank has landed in downtown Dur'm!

Just a short time ago, Main Street was looking downright blighted. Just a handful of businesses were even open for business and it was hard to find a good meal - much less a place you'd want to sit and eat it - downtown. But, someone around here must have received the revitalization memo because Main Street is coming alive again. One of the latest places to take a chance on the area is Revolution. On my first drive-by, I nearly popped a wheelie on the curb outside trying to crane my neck for a double take. With its chic, white exterior and valet stand (yes, a place that valets in Dur'm!), Revolution looks like a spot that would fit in nicely in San Francisco's Union Square or Atlanta's Atlantic Station. But, we've got it. So what's it all about?

I've already implied that the place is pretty. Smartly sleek in the decor department is a more accurate description. After the hostess stand, the bar is the first thing to greet you as you enter. The counter spreads long and wide with enough plush, white bar stools for a couple of large parties to be seated comfortably. And while we're discussing the bar, let's discuss the drinks. Bravo to the beverage menu creator at this establishment. Revolution has not only trademarked some delicious new creations like the yummy Lavender Blueberry Fizz, they've also put sexy twists on cocktail standards. The Dark and Stormy is like a Cuba Libre with a kick: ginger beer replaces traditional Coke.

Revolution serves up dinner, Sunday brunch, and a raw bar that runs late into the night. I have to be honest and admit I'm not the best person to review the food here. Most of the dishes come from the sea or contain red meat or pork - none of which I can consume. There is one vegetarian dish called Sweet Potato Curry, but their menu specialties are definitely for carnivores. Now, I have tasted the majority of the dessert menu and my reviews are mixed. The first time around, I nibbled on the Chocolate Ice Box Pie (pretty tasty), the Warm Apple Torte (excellent) and the Chocolate Cake (excellent times two!). But, an order of the same desserts on a separate visit gave me a second opinion. It really seemed as if the chef switched up on the recipes in the kitchen.

Well, it is a relatively new establishment so maybe they're still experimenting back there. I can say it is a great place for a date or to gather with friends without fear of having beer spilled on you by a Duke student or distress caused from having to yell over a TV (there is none!) on high volume and tuned to sports. This place screams "adult." And, I think we all agree it's time for downtown Dur'm to grow up."