Food & Drink · Restaurants
Academy Street Bistro
About
Academy Street Bistro: Chef-Driven Dining in Downtown Cary
In the heart of downtown Cary on South Academy Street, Academy Street Bistro has become a go-to for special occasions and elevated weeknight dinners alike. Casual but polished, it pairs a seasonal New American menu with a lively bar and a welcoming patio.
A Downtown Cary Favorite
The bistro has anchored downtown Cary for over a decade, and since 2016 it has been owned and run by chef Tom Havrish, who reshaped it into a chef-driven restaurant emphasizing local ingredients and frequently changing seasonal specials. It’s the kind of independent neighborhood restaurant that regulars return to again and again.
The Menu: New American with a Bistro Heart
The kitchen leans New American with French and Italian accents. Signatures include an ahi tuna trio, double-cut lamb chops with a Guinness jus, and a Prime New York strip, alongside rotating seasonal plates and a well-regarded raw and appetizer selection. It’s ambitious cooking served in an unpretentious, comfortable room.
A Bar Worth Settling Into
Academy Street’s bar program is part of the draw, with a thoughtful wine and cocktail list and recurring weeknight specials that give locals a reason to make a habit of it. The space divides naturally into a bar and lounge, a main dining room, and a patio for warm evenings.
Plan Your Visit
The bistro serves lunch and dinner through the week and takes reservations via Resy, which are recommended for weekend evenings. Because posted hours can vary, it’s worth confirming Sunday and Monday service before you go.