Downtown Raleigh restaurants prep for Restaurant Week: 'Pretty awesome'

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Restaurateurs participating in Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week are preparing for a much-needed boost.

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance is hosting the culinary event to support small businesses.

The latest data from the Commerce Department shows restaurant sales rose 0.6% in June.

"We'll see easily like a 10% increase in business," said Irregardless owner Lee Robinson. "Downtown Raleigh especially empties out in the summertime."

Foot traffic is typically down this time of year. There are concerns about the economy, and prices of some kitchen staples are rising with tariffs.

"Tomatoes are getting ready to go through the roof. Avocados have seen their day, but for the most part, if one thing is up, something else is down," said Robinson.

With the increases, Chef Kevin Ruiz of Cuya is making a conscientious effort to grab more produce at the State Farmer's Market and source from other local farmers.

"There's nothing that tastes better than a local ingredient," said Ruiz. "But we are also aware that prices are going up on certain things."

Cuya is participating in Restaurant Week.

The Glenwood South restaurant offers Caribbean and South American fare. The spot is relatively new and opened about four-and-a-half months ago.

"It was a little scary at first. We didn't really know what we were going to expect, but honestly, the reception that we've had from all the locals and the previous restaurant's regulars has been impactful for us," said Ruiz.

Boatman Spirits Company opened doors just a month ago in the recently redeveloped Seaboard Station.

Zack Thomas said it has been challenging.

The owners are still working to get the distillery up and running. They plan to use Downtown Raleigh Restaurant Week as an opportunity to expose people to the restaurant side of the business.

"To be able to show off what we're doing alongside of some of the greats around downtown is pretty awesome," said Thomas.

Restaurant Week runs through Sunday, Aug. 3.