Photography by Christopher T Martin
For decades, Carr Mill Mall has served as the communal heart of Carrboro, North Carolina. Housed in a historic textile mill, it is a hub where locals gather for shopping, coffee, and exceptional food. Among its premier dining destinations is Venable Bistro, a neighborhood favorite celebrated for its globally inspired comfort food and farm-to-table freshness.
Even beloved institutions need a refresh. Venable recently completed a comprehensive, fresh interior renovation, introducing a sleek, modern energy to its classic dining room. Yet, despite the stunning transformation, this exciting local update has flown somewhat under the radar.
To truly understand the evolution of Venable’s new look, you have to look at the creative force driving it: Executive Chef and Owner Andrew “Drew” Moore.
Meet Chef Drew Moore: The Culinary Mind Behind Carr Mill Mall’s Top Spots
Chef Drew Moore is no stranger to building community-focused dining spaces. As the mastermind behind a growing family of local concepts, Moore has quietly shaped the culinary identity of Carrboro.
His footprint inside and around Carr Mill Mall includes:
- Venable Bistro: The cornerstone neighborhood bistro known for upscale comfort food, stellar brunches, and local political and academic regulars.
- B-Side Lounge: Venable’s cozy, intimate sister cocktail lounge.
- Autostrada Pizza & Panini: A lively Italian concept inspired by Moore’s formative years living and working near Bologna, Italy.
- Autostrada Gelato & Coffee: Serving authentic Italian gelato and house-roasted coffee.
Moore’s culinary philosophy is deeply shaped by his time abroad. At age 19, he moved to Imola, Italy, where he spent two years mastering Italian techniques—an experience that later directly inspired the roadside autogrill concept behind Autostrada. That same dedication to high-quality, approachable ingredients flows directly back into Venable.
What’s New in Venable’s Renovation?
The recent updates to Venable were meticulously planned to bridge the gap between the building’s historic 1800s mill architecture and a contemporary dining experience.
- The Vibe: A brighter, cleaner, and more modern aesthetic that elevates the dining room while preserving the warm, communal atmosphere Carrboro locals love.
- The Menu: While the look is entirely refreshed, the kitchen remains deeply committed to its roots. Diners can still expect inventive global comfort plates, gluten-free options, and rotating daily specials pulled straight from regional farmers’ markets.
Quick Facts: Venable Bistro & Chef Drew Moore
- Location: Carr Mill Mall, 200 N Greensboro St, Carrboro, NC 27510
- Executive Chef/Owner: Andrew “Drew” Moore
- Sister Concepts: B-Side Lounge, Autostrada Pizza, Autostrada Gelato & Coffee
- What to Order: Globally inspired comfort plates, seasonal farmers’ market features, and weekend brunch.
