Turns out Pop's isn't where it used to be, in the Brightleaf complex. They moved a few months back, across Duke Street into the trendy Liggett and Myers buildings. Parking was always a hassle at the old place, not so now. Wheelchair access was a hassle, too, as one had to traverse a long walkway just to get in the door. In the new location, even though the restaurant is up one flight of stairs, a very convenient wheelchair elevator awaits inside the main door. Bravo!
Bravo! to the food as well! After sharing a salad of field greens and goat cheese with a light creamy balsamic drizzle, we ordered the giant scallops. The vegetarian in our happy trio was delighted to find a vegetarian lasagne as one of the specials. It did not disappoint, as at other places serve light on the veggies and heavy on the sauce. This was a delightful middle ground with fresh sauce, noodles and veggies singing a delicious harmony.
Now the scallops. You know when you bite into a scallop and edges are slightly crisp and the middle just tender, your mouth sends a delicious! signal and your body responds by going all gooey and a sneaky smile lightens your face? Well these are the scallops to do just that. Served with a perfectly seasoned potato gnocchi, roasted local eggplants, mushrooms and caramelized onion broth side, this is a regular-menu item worth the time you take savoring the flavor.
Of course, great "puts-hair-on-your-chest" coffee and a fresh warm peach crisp with a dollop of vanilla gelato are also worth savoring. Overall, Pop's made the right move when it crossed the street. Now it's your turn to make the right move.
Pop's: A Durham Trattoria - 605 West Main Street, Durham, NC 919.956.7677
