Ashley Christensen Restaurants

Dine In Service

We are pleased to be offering dine-in service in a limited capacity. We are open for dine in service on Friday and Saturday from 5 to 10pm, and Thursday & Sunday from 5 to 9pm, and encourage guests to make a reservation in advance.

You can make a reservation online here.

Per the Raleigh city ordinance, masks are required indoors and should be worn whenever guests are not seated at their tables. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

Kitchen

The philosophy of the kitchen and bar at Poole’s Diner is simple to digest...creative, simple offerings carefully executed.

Our menus are inspired by the season and its many offerings. As the season changes, at some points on a daily basis, so do our chalkboard menus. We work with local growers and artisan producers Whenever possible, to showcase their craft, while practicing our own. We are proud to be a part of a community that recognizes the importance and value of supporting the small family farm.

Story

"Life is short, eat dessert first."

John Poole may have taken Winston Churchill's words to heart when he opened Poole's Pie Shop in 1945 at 426 S. McDowell Street. For six years the cozy spot was a veritable holy grail of pies–all sweet–but soon their patrons wanted more. In the early 1950's, "chicken slick," sandwiches, and a daily "hot plate" made their way onto the Poole's menu, and the line to be served wrapped around the corner. The pie shop moved out, as Poole's Pies became Poole's Luncheonette, and a downtown hot-spot was born. We'd like to think it was the first.

In its latest incarnation Poole's has returned to its diner roots under the ownership of Chef Ashley Christensen. Marrying a clean aesthetic with retro-chic charm, Christensen restored and even highlighted the "bones" of the original restaurant, including the double horseshoe bar and red leather banquettes, pairing it with modern elements like Lucite chairs and oversized blackboard menus that change daily based on season and availability.

FAQ

What is your mask policy?
In accordance with government orders and CDC guidelines, all guests (regardless of age or vaccine status) are required to wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth while in the building unless they are seated at their appointed table. This includes when getting up to use the restroom or to enter or exit the space. We understand that the mask requirement brings up feelings for folks, but please don’t take those feelings out on our staff. If you cannot comply with this policy, we ask that you do not dine with us at this time.

How do I make a reservation?
You can make a reservation online here. Please note that we only take reservations up to 30 days in advance. Right now, reservations are limited to 6 people or less. We require a credit card on file to confirm your reservation. If you need to change or cancel your reservation, we ask that you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Reservations that are changed or canceled within 24 hours of the reservation time are subject to a cancellation fee of $25 per guest.

Why are your hours so limited?
We are so excited to re-open our dining room, but in order to do so thoughtfully and provide a great and safe experience to our guests, we are re-opening in stages, starting with limited hours and days of service. We will continue to increase our operations over the next few months and thank you for your patience!

Is there parking?
Yes. There is parking in the lot across the street weekdays from 5 p.m. until 2 a.m. and on Saturday and Sunday during the day and night. Please be sure to park in the lined spaces.

How often does the menu change?
Our evening menu of seasonal, locally-focused offerings changes weekly and sometimes daily.

Do you serve the macaroni au gratin at brunch?
No, we do not. But we have lots of super delicious cheesy things on the brunch menu!