Longleaf Swine, the Raleigh barbecue shop that opened in 2022, is heading to downtown Carrboro later this year. The owners plan to take over a neighborhood restaurant space and bring their whole‑hog barbecue to the Chapel Hill‑Carrboro scene, marking Longleaf’s first outpost outside Raleigh and extending a brand that has become a regular draw for downtown diners and late‑night crowds.
Downtown Carrboro Takeover
As reported by Axios, Longleaf Swine plans to move into the Luna Rotisserie & Taproom site in downtown Carrboro after Luna announced on Instagram that it will close that location next month. Longleaf aims to open the new outpost later this year. Co‑owner Adam Cunningham told Axios the group had considered several Chapel Hill‑area buildings but ultimately favored the Luna space for its size and character.
What Longleaf Will Serve
According to the restaurant's own site, Longleaf Swine built its reputation on whole‑hog barbecue, slow‑smoked brisket and a tight, seasonal menu that leans on classic Southern sides. The site also highlights a growing catering operation out of its Raleigh kitchen, an arm of the business the team says will remain active as they add locations.
Raleigh Roots
The Raleigh flagship opened in 2022 after the owners converted the former Oakwood Cafe on East Edenton Street into a roomy smokehouse with a large covered patio, as reported by WRAL. That downtown home base helped the team build a steady daytime and late‑night following, which owners say makes a Triangle expansion a logical next step.
Vibe and Menu Changes
Cunningham told Axios that each Longleaf location will keep its own character, and that the Carrboro spot will lean into a dive‑bar energy inspired by nearby Milltown. Axios also reports the team plans to expand vegan options and use its smoker to cook vegetables. Luna continues to list a downtown Durham location on its site, suggesting the Carrboro closure will not end the brand’s wider presence in the Triangle, according to Luna Rotisserie & Taproom.
Timeline and What’s Next
The owners say they will work through design, permitting and a renovation plan before announcing a firm opening date, and they plan to keep customers updated through their usual channels. For now, Longleaf’s Raleigh kitchen will keep serving its regular menu while the team prepares the Carrboro project.
