Crook's Corner Cafe and Bar

Crook's Corner is one of those rare eateries that you come away from feeling like you got "more" than you paid for: more service, more selection, more flavor - more southern cuisine. My wife and I went on a Friday evening. Arriving early in the evening we had no wait and were escorted to our seat immediately. We got a seat outside on the patio next to the small ornamental pond. The atmosphere of Crook's Corner is perfect for a causal relaxed "good eats and conversation" night out. Clean, relaxed and refined without being stuffy; you can laugh out loud and not feel embarrassed.

I ordered the classic Crook's Hamburger and my wife ordered their famous Shrimp and Grits. Both meals were superb. Maybe it was the atmosphere, maybe it was because the food was so reasonably priced or maybe it was really just that good. But it was probably one of the best hamburgers I've ever had and the Shrimp and Grits was simply delectable.

If you are looking for great southern style cuisine and are in Chapel Hill, NC you have to visit Crook's Corner.

About Crook's Corner in Chapel Hill

Crook's Corner in Chapel Hill, NC gets its name from Rachel Crook who ran a fish market and cafe from the location in the 1940s. She was murdered in 1951 and the case was never solved. After that the location served as various things until 1982 when Bill Neal and Gene Hamer set up shop to pursue the "perfect Southern cuisine."

It is the birthplace of the often copied "Shrimp and Grits" which is still by far their most popular dish. However, Chef Bill Smith, who took over as head chef after Neal passed away, has over 100 recipes in his collection and none disappoint.

What others are saying about Crook's Corner

"Sacred ground for Southern foodies ... Crook's is a nightly celebration." - The New York Times

"The best place to eat in Chapel Hill, in North Carolina and possibly on Earth." - Delta Sky

"Everything that happens in Chapel Hill radiates from Franklin Street ... but single-minded, we head to the end of Franklin Street to Crook's Corner. Crook's is hard to miss. There is a pig on the roof. I have yet to eat an average meal at Crook's Corner - the food is consistently outstanding, sort of nouvelle down home."' - The Washington Post

"A legend." - Bon Appetit (Best Restaurants of the South)

Sources:

Crook's Corner Cafe and Bar, crookscorner.com