Union Special

Without a doubt one of my favorite sandwich spots in Raleigh. The two pictured here are not my go to?s but were specials that I couldn?t pass up. These happen to be fried but that isn?t indicative to what other options they offer. One was a fried chicken sandwich on a cheddar biscuit with lemon aioli, cheddar cheese, and pickles. The other was a fried catfish sandwich (which I never order but I knew here it would be something altogether different and uplifted). Both monstrous. Key mentions: their dishes are unique, not the same run of the mill options as most lunch spots. Secondly, what I loathe in others and cherish with UnIon Special is that they always balance the sandwich with the proper amount of acidity?as in something that helps cut through all the savoury and brightens the sandwich, whether that be with a spicy slaw, pickled cabbage, pickles, and what not. Most fail to incorporate this essential balance. Lastly, they bake all of their own bread which you can appreciate the value of. They have baked goods for breakfast and lunch. They are in an odd area but once you stumble upon it, you?ll be back. Ohh and my go to?the hot ham sandwich, gorgeous.

I tried weekend brunch special menus and it was just okay. Fried fish was bit salty. Breads were bit crunchy than I thought! Pancakes were pretty good.

Been wanting to try this place and finally got to this morning for breakfast. We arrived at 10am on a Saturday, so I was worried it would be packed?but it wasn?t and we didn?t have to wait long for our food and iced lattes either. Also, we had the option of dining indoors and outside. Indoor area wasn?t super spacious so we went outside. I got the biscuits gravy and MERCY, it was delicious! The pickled peppers just took it to the next level! My mother got the ham sandwich and added an egg?she said it was as amazing as it looked. My toddler got scrambled eggs. I appreciated the well thought out menu and ingredients. They also had quite the assortment of pastries in addition to the menu items. My mom and I both will definitely be back.. with more family members, I?m sure!

Such a neat spot and wonderful menu! I?ve not been to this area of North raleigh but was pumped to find a recently renovated area where Union Square is located and great open outdoor space to gather and enjoy good food and drinks. I had the Vegan hot sandwich, I?m not vegan it just listed a delicious mix of ingredients. The charred sweet potato was a perfect balance to the other crunchy veggies and crispy bread. The home fries are worth the up charge and the dunking sauce is great too. My boyfriend ordered the chicken sandwich and it was delicious as well (of course I sampled it). I had to walk away from the window full of pastries but I guarantee you I?ll be back for a handful of those- they looked absolutely amazing! I get food envy every time they post on IG. Definitely try this spot! And then wander down the corner for a pint and sot in the open, turf based amphitheater area. Update: went back!!! Had the hot ham sammich and I?m still dreaming about it. It was sloppy goodness and fresh ingredients, perfect combo of hearty and filling with bright and complex flavors. Delish! The sauce for the home fries is epic too! Basically, prepare for a 2 hour nap when you leave bc your happy belly will need a nappy nap to recover from the goodness overload.

I am so happy they always have vegan options. Their bread is superior, obviously. OH and the coconut macaron is the best thing I?ve put in my mouth in a long time. Highly recommend. And also great people!!!