When one door closes, another opens up and that’s usually a good belief in life. But it may also apply to new restaurants! Back in September of 2023, news that the classic Humble Pie in Raleigh was closing left many in sadness and disbelief. So with trepidation I waited to see what would fill this iconic space in the Warehouse District. Eventually, word leaked out that Figulina would be opening up in the old Humble Pie space. Admittedly, I do think that downtown Raleigh could use more decent Italian eats so I was hopeful. And after two visits I can certainly say that while Humble Pie will always be missed, it’s time to celebrate Figulina! Here’s why…
Figulina, Raleigh – Location, Decor
Figulina sits in a great location in Raleigh’s Warehouse District! Right around the corner from the Pit and Boxcar Bar and Arcade, down the street from Barcelona Wine Bar and the Flying Saucer, the old Humble Pie space offers up a large, very high ceiling space that’s mostly open. Add in the large covered patio and you’ve got a great starting spot for a new restaurant, which is what I’m pretty sure, Figulina counted on.
Inside, the space hasn’t changed that much. I recognize the old checked floor tiles, woodwork and back bar. Some new stenciled murals offer some color and design to the walls and there’s a new pasta room to the right which allows you to watch them roll out your carbs. Figulina also plans on a retail area where they will sell their fresh pastas, sauces and more, hence the “provisions” in their name. The overall decor at Figulina is fine, a bit dated, but let’s focus on the food!
Figulina, Raleigh – Menu, Food
Figulina describes itself as a “pasta-centric” restaurant and I’d have to agree. While there are hints and flavors of Italy on the menu, it dabbles across a variety of cuisines but stays true to its handmade pasta focus. Certainly don’t expect any traditional Italian-American type dishes here! The menu at Figulina is very short and tight but given it just opened up recently, it may expand over time. Expect a handful of (six) small plates, the same number of pasta choices and a couple of desserts.
Over the course of my visits I’ve found the small plates leaning towards a cold offerings, simple and bright in presentation and flavor. Start with the charred cabbage which presents a lovely wedge of greens, singed on the side and served with a tangy creamy sauce and crispy country ham. It’s a fun starter with a lot of textures. Figulina’s roasted potatoes features fingerling potatoes topped with boquerones (sardines), lemon zest and squash. This dish didn’t quite blow me away but they are definitely pushing the envelope with their menu options!
For mains, you definitely will enjoy their pastas! The cappelletti dish offers up plump, short rib filled pasta in a savory mushroom broth (en brodo) which is super simple in concept but very nicely done. And the nori (seaweed) bucatini is a dark, green (like) tubular pasta with black garlic, chili, and lump crab. An interesting play on a seafood theme and well done, the bucatini is fun to slurp up and eat. Given the large pasta room showcasing their hand-crafted rolling and pasta-making, it would make sense that the pastas shine here.
Portion sizes at Figulina are just about right, not too filling, not too light so you might have room for dessert even after a starter and pasta! The panne cotta is a great way to finish off your meal. A wiggly, jiggly, mound of soft custard that’s topped with a crunchy and chewy honeycomb and laid over a slice of poached pear. A great textural combination and palate cleanser.
Figulina, Raleigh – Service, Conclusion
Given that Figulina recently opened up, they are still working out service kinks but they are already doing an excellent job overall. The front of house is well-staffed with seasoned professionals and the team service means you’ll get your food out pretty quickly. While the space is fairly large, tables are nicely spaced out so conversation should be fine in the high ceiling dining room. Like Humble Pie, it’s a good spot for larger groups but still has a cozy and intimate feel for smaller parties. And of course they’ve got that great covered patio out front that Humble Pie was always known for, we’ll see if Figulina puts out a brunch menu!
Overall I’m pretty happy with what Figulina is trying to do here. Think unconventional pastas and flavors, spun up and plated in creative fashion. The flavor and ingredient combinations are a bit daring but stick with tried and true European ingredients. At some point and time, I’m assuming we’ll see more of a retail section available to buy their hand-made pastas and other foodstuffs soon. But until then, enjoy their fresh pastas made in-house from this great reboot of a classic Raleigh restaurant space.
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