From the moment you step into 101 Kitchen in Knightdale, you’re greeted by an atmosphere that radiates both modern flair and genuine hospitality. Natural light filters through large windows, illuminating exposed brick walls adorned with local artwork.
Subtle background music sets a relaxing tone, inviting guests to unwind and savor every bite. Friendly staff guide newcomers through an expansive selection, ensuring each order is tailored to personal tastes and dietary needs.
Every dish at 101 Kitchen is crafted with precision, balancing bold flavors and fresh ingredients sourced from nearby farms. The menu presents something for every palate, whether you crave a light starter, a hearty main course, or a decadent dessert.
Attention to detail is evident in the presentation—plates arrive garnished with edible flowers, vibrant herbs, and carefully drizzled sauces. From first glance to final morsel, the dining experience feels both exciting and comforting, making it a must-visit destination in Knightdale.
Whether gathering friends for a casual night out or celebrating a special occasion, 101 Kitchen offers a menu designed to delight and inspire. Each section transitions smoothly, showcasing appetizers, signature entrees, vegetarian delights, seafood creations, sweet finales, family-friendly combos, and seasonal features.
Every choice promises an elevated dining journey, shining a spotlight on quality, creativity, and community.
Appetizers and Small Plates
Start the culinary adventure with thoughtfully curated starters that set the tone for the meal ahead. Appetizers embody vibrant flavors and playful textures while highlighting locally sourced produce and artisanal ingredients.
Each dish arrives as a miniature masterpiece, perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
The menu boasts a variety of small plates, from crispy calamari to charcuterie boards loaded with regional cheeses. Flavor profiles range from tangy and spicy to creamy and savory, ensuring there’s a perfect pairing for every palate.
Portion sizes encourage sampling multiple items, so creative combinations can be discovered.
Presentation stands out with colorful garnishes and neat plating, making each starter worthy of a snapshot before the first bite. Expect bursts of freshness with microgreens and citrus accents balancing richer flavors.
The menu evolves seasonally, bringing new twists and limited-time offerings that surprise regulars and newcomers alike.
Chef’s Recommendation
One popular choice is the truffle mushroom crostini, featuring sautéed wild mushrooms on toasted baguette slices.
“Our goal is to showcase the pure essence of each ingredient. We let simplicity shine.” – Chef Marcus Eldridge
- Truffle Mushroom Crostini: Earthy mushrooms, garlic, and a drizzle of truffle oil
- Calamari Frites: Lightly breaded rings with zesty aioli
- Seasonal Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze
- Charcuterie Board: Assorted cured meats, cheeses, and seasonal jam
Signature Entrees
Signature entrees form the heart of the dining experience, blending innovative techniques and bold flavors. Each dish is plated with precision, offering a symphony of tastes that linger on the palate.
Options range from tender steaks to house-made pasta, accommodating both meat lovers and adventurous diners.
Entrees are designed to satisfy the most discerning guests, with complex marinades and proprietary spice blends. Ingredients are sourced sustainably, ensuring organic produce and ethically raised proteins.
Culinary craftsmanship shines through slow-roasting, sous-vide preparation, and open-fire grilling methods.
Side accompaniments are equally thoughtful, including rosemary-garlic roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and vibrant salad mixes. Sauces and reductions complement each main attraction, from rich demi-glace to light citrus beurre blanc.
The menu adapts regularly, offering freshly inspired creations and classics reimagined.
| Dish | Description | Price |
| Steak Frites | New York strip, hand-cut fries, peppercorn sauce | $28 |
| Seafood Linguine | Shrimp, mussels, squid, white wine garlic sauce | $24 |
| Herb-Crusted Chicken | Free-range chicken breast, thyme jus | $22 |
Pairing Suggestions
- Steak Frites with a bold red wine
- Seafood Linguine and light crisp white
- Herb-Crusted Chicken paired with citrusy pale ale
Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Plant-based choices receive equal attention, ensuring every guest enjoys a satisfying entrée. Vegan and vegetarian dishes celebrate fresh produce, inventive textures, and robust flavors.
Innovative preparations highlight seasonal bounty and nutrient-rich ingredients.
Sweet potato gnocchi with sage butter and toasted hazelnuts is a standout, delivering creamy comfort without dairy. The roasted cauliflower steak features chimichurri made from fresh herbs and preserved lemon.
Both options satisfy cravings for hearty, flavor-forward dishes.
Salad selections include farm-fresh greens, quinoa bowls, and creative grain medleys topped with roasted vegetables. Each salad offers nutrient-dense components like avocado, hemp seeds, and pickled onions.
Dressings are crafted in-house, using cold-pressed oils and zesty vinegars.
Essential Add-Ons
- Grilled Tofu Strips with sweet chili glaze
- Marinated Tempeh Cubes in garlic-herb broth
- Charred Brussels Sprouts with balsamic reduction
“Every dish must honor the integrity of the produce. Simplicity and boldness go hand in hand.”
These offerings prove that vegan and vegetarian menus can be both nourishing and indulgent. Each plate is balanced to deliver protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
The culinary team experiments with international influences—Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin American flavors—so regulars find new favorites on repeat visits.
Specialty Seafood Dishes
Seafood selections shine with freshness and creative flair. From Gulf shrimp to North Atlantic cod, every catch arrives at optimal peak quality.
Delicate flavors pair with zesty seasonings and refined sauces.
The pan-seared salmon features a cilantro-lime crema, while the blackened grouper comes with a smoky chipotle aioli. Shellfish platters showcase oysters, clams, and lobster tails, served with tangy mignonette and warm drawn butter.
Texture variety adds excitement, combining crisp skins and tender flesh.
Seafood is prepared using various techniques: cedar-plank grilling, gentle poaching, and flash-frying for a light crunch. Seasonal specials highlight local catches, giving back to the coastal fishing community.
Guests often share tableside stories about the day’s catch, creating a sense of connection.
| Seafood Dish | Main Ingredient | Prep Style |
| Cedar-Plank Salmon | Atlantic salmon | Grilled with cedar smoke |
| Gulf Shrimp Risotto | Jumbo shrimp | Creamy risotto |
| Blackened Grouper | Fresh grouper | Pan-seared with spices |
Chef’s Notes
Using responsibly sourced seafood supports sustainable fishing practices. Each dish is finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon to enhance natural flavors.
Perfect for seafood aficionados who value both taste and ethics.
Desserts and Beverages
Sweet finales and curated drinks create a memorable conclusion to any meal. Desserts range from light sorbets to indulgent chocolate torte.
Beverage options include craft cocktails, local beers, and an extensive wine list.
Signature desserts such as salted caramel panna cotta and flourless chocolate cake satisfy the sweetest cravings. House-made gelato flavors rotate seasonally, featuring lavender honey, mango basil, and dark chocolate.
A cheese board for two pairs dried fruits, nuts, and regional varieties.
| Dessert | Description | Price |
| Salted Caramel Panna Cotta | Creamy custard, almond tuile | $9 |
| Flourless Chocolate Cake | Rich ganache, fresh berries | $10 |
| Seasonal Sorbet | House-made, fruit infusion | $7 |
Cocktail Creations
- Lavender Gin Smash: Gin, lavender syrup, lemon
- Smoked Old Fashioned: Bourbon, smoked sugar cube
- Mango Mule: Vodka, ginger beer, fresh mango puree
Tea and coffee selections are roasted and blended locally. Guests rave about the pour-over coffee and matcha latte, which pair beautifully with lighter pastries.
Non-alcoholic mocktails feature fresh-pressed juices and house-made shrub syrups.
Family Meal Deals and Combos
Designed for sharing, family-friendly combos make gatherings both easy and affordable. Meal deals include multiple courses, allowing families to sample a variety of dishes without individual orders.
Pricing tiers accommodate small groups or larger parties.
Popular combos include pasta night (two entrees, garlic bread, salad) and taco fiesta (twelve tacos, sides, salsa bar). Each option is customizable, letting guests select proteins, sauces, and side dishes.
Family deals encourage interactive dining, especially for younger guests.
“Our family combos bring everyone to the table, creating memories around shared plates and flavors.”
- Kids under ten eat free with any family deal
- Complimentary dessert tray for parties of six or more
- Take-home containers provided for leftovers
Group Catering Add-Ons
Catering trays for office lunches and special events offer the same high standards. Options range from sandwich boards to full entrée platters.
Delivery and set-up services ensure stress-free entertaining.
A La Carte sides include:
- Truffle Mac and Cheese
- Seasonal Vegetable Medley
- Herbed Couscous Salad
Seasonal Specials and Events
Special menus celebrate holidays and local festivals, introducing limited-time dishes that capture the spirit of each season. From summer seafood boils to winter game nights, events keep the experience fresh and exciting.
Guests can reserve themed dinners or join public tastings.
Autumn brings pumpkin gnocchi and mulled cider cocktails. Spring features garden-to-table tasting menus highlighting baby greens and fragrant herbs.
Special wine-pairing dinners include curated flights and meet-the-winemaker evenings.
Live music and trivia nights add entertainment value, fostering community engagement. Monthly chef’s tables offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into recipe development and plating techniques.
Participants leave inspired to recreate signature flavors at home.
Future events are announced on the restaurant’s website and social channels. Early reservations guarantee seating for sold-out evenings, ensuring guests don’t miss exclusive culinary showcases.
From artful appetizers to grand seasonal celebrations, 101 Kitchen Knightdale Menu invites diners on a journey through innovation, quality, and community spirit. Each section of the menu, whether vegan options or specialty seafood, is crafted with care and creativity.
The atmosphere, attentive service, and commitment to local sourcing elevate every visit, making 101 Kitchen a standout choice for casual dinners, family gatherings, and special events. With options to suit all tastes and occasions, the dining experience feels both adventurous and familiar.
Every visit promises fresh discoveries, whether sampling a limited-time entrée or returning for comforting classics. Culinary artistry meets welcoming warmth, ensuring guests depart with satisfied appetites and new favorite dishes.
