'My Way Tavern' serves up award-winning dishes

My Way Tavern, located at 522 St Marys St. in Raleigh and 301 W. Center St. in Holly Springs, has been crowned the Neighborhood Bar Winner in the 2023 WRAL Voters' Choice Awards. This warm and inviting tavern, known for its delicious food, extensive beer selection and friendly atmosphere, has captured the hearts of locals, making it a true community hub.

Founded in 2010 by Andrew Stafford and his wife, Nikki, My Way Tavern embodies the spirit of its name. It's not just a bar; it's a place where people can come together, be part of something bigger and enjoy good company.

With currently two locations and another opening in August, co-owner Jake Turpin says the bar is designed in a way to create a comfortable and fun atmosphere for everyone who walks through their doors.

"Each of our locations has a horseshoe bar, where everyone can easily see and connect with each other," Turpin said. "There's no neons because we want to make sure that it's warm and inviting. So, lots of wood, tin, metal, lots of old cans collected over the years."

Turpin said the main goal is to provide a place where people come together and be part of a family or a neighborhood. Whether you're cheering on your team, having a romantic date, enjoying a night out with the family, or just flying solo, there's something for everyone.

Food that goes beyond ordinary

One of the standout features of My Way Tavern is its commitment to culinary excellence.

Monthly food and drink features showcase the kitchen's skills, presenting patrons with innovative and delectable options.

"I always say that we have not your ordinary tavern food. It's very... elevated," Turpin said. "So our nachos are not normal nachos, sandwiches or anything you order will have large portions, everything's big here. So there always going to be room for things to take home."

Kat Petrea, My Way Tavern house manager in Raleigh, describes the food as "not your ordinary tavern food."

The menu features a wide range of delicious options, from generously sized sandwiches to award-winning wings available in 14 tasty flavors. People can find freshly made, classic American dishes like appetizers, salads, soups, burgers, sandwiches, and main courses.

"We are best known for our wings," Petrea said. "We've won a few awards for them over the past few years. They're a good size. We have a bunch of different wing flavors to choose from."

Petrea said customers can choose anything from mild to a little bit of sweet to really, really hot if they are up to the challenge.

Long-time customers like John Ketchum say it’s more than just the food – it’s just an overall great atmosphere.

"Some of my favorite dishes is the shrimp. I like it with the el jefe sauce, which is too hot for many people, the buffalo shrimp, the frank, and so much more,” Ketchum said. "I mean this is an awesome place, great food and customer service. This is the friendliest staff in the world and for those reasons that's why I keep coming back."

The tavern's commitment extends beyond its culinary delights. Weekly events, such as the popular Tuesday night trivia called Hammer Trivia hosted by Thor, showcase the bar provides entertainment and camaraderie.

Notably, My Way Tavern earned the title of "Best Trivia in Raleigh," a testament to its popularity and engaging atmosphere.

Events and fun for everyone

My Way Tavern is always buzzing with activity. From live music and trivia nights to themed events like St. Patrick's Day celebrations and Chelsea FC viewing parties, there's always something to keep you entertained.

"St. Patrick's Day, we'll have a piper coming in to play some legit bagpipes for, I think, 30 minutes, " Turpin said. "Then we have Bender Street and he's going to come in with his band."

Turpin said they are going to have live music out on the patio, drink features and food all day long throughout event.

My Way Tavern is also a dog-friendly place.

"We put heaters on the patio so customers don't have to leave their dogs at home," Turpin said. "So maybe they can bring them out and we can bring them a treat. We bring them a dog dish."

Turpin says they are very thankful for winning the Neighborhood Bar Winner in the 2023 WRAL Voters' Choice Awards.

"I think it's an honor to even be mentioned in it, to win it," Turpin said. "That's a lot of competition in Raleigh to win a best neighborhood bar. I think that says leaps and bounds about the service and the things that our staff does. Kudos to them. They do a great job. Every day they hustle. We're proud of them."

Turpin says that he hopes their restaurant is around in 10 years, growing and making history.

"I hope we're in every small town across the U.S., you know?" Turpin said. " I just hope we're still thriving and that people are still coming in and telling stories about how they met here.”

He said they want to be part of the history of Raleigh and Holly Springs and make new memories for new people.

"I think that's what's important," Turpin said.

Ready to experience My Way Tavern?

Head to My Way Tavern in Raleigh or Holly Springs and discover why it's the neighborhood bar everyone loves. You'll be greeted with friendly faces, delicious food, and a warm atmosphere that makes you feel right at home.

"Nice people, awesome food, everyone is laughing, having fun – that's what it's all about," Ketchum said. " So why not come try it out."

Additional information:

• Website: https://www.mywaytavern.com/raleigh/our-menus
• Hours: 11 am to midnight, seven days a week
• Events: Check the website for upcoming events and specials

I don’t think you need this graph: So, what are you waiting for? Make your way to My Way Tavern and experience the winning combination of good food, good company, and good times!