Beasley's Chicken + Honey - A local NC eatery started by a James Beard Award Winner

In the bustling streets of Raleigh, North Carolina, an unexpected treasure lies waiting for the discerning food lover. It’s not buried in a chest or hidden behind a wall, but rather in a local gem—Beasley’s Chicken + Honey. A restaurant that exudes charm from the moment you walk in, Beasley’s blends Southern comfort food with a refreshing twist that makes it a stand-out in a city brimming with culinary delights.

When I walked into Beasley’s on a sunny afternoon, the long tables and farm-to-table feel set the tone. The chatter of excited patrons filled the air, and it was immediately apparent that something special was taking place. As the crowds spilled over and the smell of sizzling goodness wafted in, my anticipation grew. After all, Beasley’s isn’t just a local favorite—it’s the brainchild of none other than Award-Winning Chef Ashley Christensen.

Christensen, a culinary powerhouse, earned the prestigious James Beard Award in 2014 for “Best Chef: Southeast” and followed it up in 2019 with the “Outstanding Chef” title. With such accolades, it was clear that I had high expectations for what lay ahead, and let me tell you, I was not disappointed. Here’s a review of a few dishes that truly captured my attention.

Fried Bologna

Includes: Sorghum Dijon & Pickles

My Review: I have to admit, when I saw fried bologna on the menu, I was curious. How could something so simple, so seemingly ordinary, wow me? But oh, was I wrong. The thick-cut bologna, fried to crispy perfection, was savory all on its own. Then came the real magic—the Sorghum Dijon sauce and those pickles. Let me tell you, these are no ordinary pickles. These are pickles that redefine the landscape. Sweet, sour, tangy, and savory, they were a perfect complement to the bologna. It’s the type of pickle that could elevate any dish, and in this case, it did just that. My waitress, Dejah, recommended it, and I’m so glad she did. If you’re thinking of skipping this one, think again.

Custard Style Pimento Mac & Cheese

My Review: Now, this dish. This dish is what food dreams are made of. Beasley’s custard-style pimento macaroni and cheese took me on a flavor journey that I didn’t want to end. Imagine a macaroni and cheese that is both moist and firm—an unusual balance that works beautifully. Unlike the often watery, flavorless offerings from other restaurants, this macaroni and cheese is rich and flavorful, with a distinct custard-like texture that makes every bite a comforting delight. It’s served in a style that reminded me of lasagna, and each bite feels like love on a fork. Without a doubt, this is one of the best macaroni and cheeses I’ve ever had at a restaurant and a must-try for anyone visiting Beasley’s.

Fried Chicken

My Review: No visit to Beasley’s would be complete without trying the fried chicken, and I’m pleased to report it lives up to the hype. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, it was the perfect balance of flavors without being over-seasoned. What I loved most about it was its simplicity—this wasn’t fried chicken dressed up with gimmicky sauces or toppings. It was just good fried chicken, seasoned enough to make each bite memorable but not so much that it was overwhelming. It’s the type of comfort food that makes you feel like you’re at home.

What truly excites me about places like Beasley’s is the way they take everyday dishes—foods that many of us grew up with—and give them a culinary twist. They’re not trying to reinvent the wheel but instead adding their own creative spin, transforming familiar comfort food into something new and exciting. In a world where some restaurants struggle to make a simple hamburger taste extraordinary, Beasley’s effortlessly elevates classic Southern dishes to a whole new level. The result? A culinary experience that feels both comforting and fresh.

So, next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Raleigh, follow the scent of fried chicken and honey—you won’t regret it.

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