Peak City Grill & Bar
126 N. Salem St
Apex, NC 27502
(919) 303-8001

October 9, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight Restaurant/Nightlife Editor)

Just a couple weeks ago Steve Adams and Kurt Mueller opened an exciting new upscale restaurant in the last place you'd imagine: the heart of downtown Apex. Until this fall the new Peak City Grill & Bar was just "the vacant building next to the Fire Station" on Salem Street . Now it's a special one-of-a-kind, locally-owned restaurant, and THE new hotspot for an indulgent lunch, enjoying happy hour with your coworkers, and dining in casual style. If this is the kind of revitalization we can expect for our peak city, I dare say the entire Triangle should expect some real excitement.

In its first life this charming old southern brick building was a turn-of-the-century general store. Now in its second life, 126 N. Salem Street has been transformed into a warm and inviting space with a definite new urban energy. Refurbished beyond its original beauty, you'll be amazed to see an original tin roof, booths equipped with refurbished church pews, re-leaded glass on the transom, plenty of exposed brick, an open kitchen and a gorgeous granite bar running a good length of the restaurant. I predict Chamber of Commerce awards. Lots of them.

No need to hide the family in a corner from a smoky bar, as this establishment is totally smoke-free. However if you'd like a light meal or simply cocktails al fresco, the lovely little patio on the side can immerse you into the small town charm of Apex proper. Additionally, private dining rooms are available upstairs for special occasions, cocktail parties, and personalized dinner parties.

Peak City Grill is primarily a steakhouse featuring fresh and creative dishes inspired by Chef Propst's rich Southern traditions, and infused with new and complex flavors. The most remarkable appetizer, and soon to be a family favorite, is the homemade potato chips with bleu cheese and drizzled with a syrupy red pepper jelly. Lunch features mostly salads, sandwiches, grilled gourmet pizzas, and burgers, all with a unique twist. Dinner offers a variety of steaks with your choice of sauces, crusts, and rubs, pastas, entrée-sized salads, and regional specialties like Low Country Shrimp & Grits. Make sure to order a side of the horseradish and white cheddar layered potatoes, as they are so intoxicating they can only enhance any entrée.

For those who find the pasta portions intimidatingly large, we are thrilled to share the well-known secret that half orders are available. We are also happy to note that any salad, any pizza, or any dish at all can be customized by adding your favorite topping, whether it be grilled chicken or simply a dash of garlic. All you have to do it ask. Their enthusiastic and capable staff will be happy to accommodate your wishes and make you feel right at home, just as they did for us.

Peak City Grill & Bar is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday, brunch on Sundays from 11:30 AM to 3 PM.

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