A local favorite eatery is getting a makeover and a new name. The new Stubborn Mule Raw Bar & Grill (formerly Grub Brothers Eatery), is making some exciting changes, including renovations and a new oyster/raw bar in the heart of downtown.

Owner Joan Meyland says that she and her husband, Roger, have always wanted to open an oyster bar. "I worked at an oyster bar years ago, and it’s really been a dream of ours. We were going to make the change before Covid, but when that happened, we decided to wait."

That dream is finally becoming a reality. Renovations have been going strong since January. Meyland says the cosmetic improvements will have a coastal, water-themed vibe. "We are giving the place a fresh look. We have coastal colors..blue and gray. We’ve recovered our booths. We’re adding brand new tables in our dining rooms as well as the new oyster bar. We’ll have three dining areas. We will still have our upstairs party room that will serve as overflow as well." Meyland says they will have tablecloths in the dining areas for a softer, more elegant look. They will also be adding vibrant local artwork on the walls.

She says that they are really excited to be a seafood restaurant with other offerings, and will of course, buy NC and local products whenever they can. "We will have a seasonal menu. We will be open for lunch and dinner. Our nighttime menu will be seafood, steaks, pork chops. We will take it up a notch at night. But you’ll still be able to get a lobster roll or a burger at night."

Meyland says they will be a full service restaurant with an oyster bar, something she says downtown has needed for awhile. "We will also have a signature cocktail menu, and we will be hiring 40-50 people."

Meyland says that while they are changing the name and some things in the restaurant, their dedication to serving fresh, high-quality food remains the same. "One thing that we are so appreciative of is the community support. Everyone has been really supportive of this endeavor."

The Stubborn Mule Raw Bar & Grill (located at 156 W. Main Street) will open sometime in April.