PIRATE CAPTAIN

North Carolina locals, especially those in and around Chapel Hill, are always on the lookout for exciting and delicious dining experiences. If you're craving a taste of authentic Japanese flavors fused with other exciting cuisines, then Pirate Captain is a name you’ll want to know. Nestled in the heart of Chapel Hill, this vibrant eatery has garnered a strong following for its exquisite ramen, fresh poke bowls, and even some unexpected Cajun seafood delights. It’s a place where quality ingredients meet generous portions, ensuring a satisfying meal every time.

What makes Pirate Captain stand out in the bustling Chapel Hill food scene is its commitment to variety and quality. Beyond its namesake ramen, the restaurant offers a diverse menu that caters to various palates. Whether you're a student looking for a hearty and affordable meal, a local resident seeking a new favorite spot, or simply passing through and in need of a delicious bite, Pirate Captain aims to provide a memorable dining experience in a welcoming atmosphere.

Pirate Captain is conveniently located at 163 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA. This prime spot on East Franklin Street places it right in the vibrant core of Chapel Hill, making it easily accessible for students from UNC, local residents, and visitors alike. Franklin Street is known for its lively atmosphere, diverse shops, and array of dining options, and Pirate Captain fits right in as a culinary gem.

Being on Franklin Street means it’s a short walk from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill campus, making it an ideal lunch or dinner spot for students and faculty. For those driving, street parking may be available, and there are often public parking decks and lots within a reasonable walking distance. The central location also makes it a great meeting point for friends and family looking to enjoy a meal together before or after exploring downtown Chapel Hill. Its accessible location ensures that whether you're arriving on foot, by bike, or by car, getting to Pirate Captain is a breeze.

Pirate Captain is more than just a ramen restaurant; it offers a comprehensive menu designed to satisfy a wide range of cravings. Here’s a look at the services and culinary delights you can expect:

• Authentic Ramen & Spicy Ramen: This is where Pirate Captain truly shines. They offer a variety of ramen bowls, including the highly popular Tonkotsu Ramen with its rich pork broth, tender pork belly, and classic toppings like corn, bean sprouts, egg, and scallions. Other popular options include Chicken Karaage Ramen, Miso Ramen, Beef Shoyu Ramen, Veggie Ramen, Pork Shoyu Ramen, Seafood Ramen, and Shrimp Tempura Ramen. You can also request any ramen to be made spicy, adding an extra kick to your meal.

• Fresh Poke Bowls: For those seeking a lighter yet equally satisfying option, Pirate Captain offers customizable poke bowls. You can choose your base (like white or brown rice, or organic mixed greens), select from a variety of fresh proteins such as salmon and tuna, and then load up on fresh vegetables, sauces, and toppings. Many customers rave about the freshness of the fish and the generous portion sizes of the poke bowls, noting that the poke sauce is a highlight.

• Cajun Seafood: A unique addition to their menu, Pirate Captain also features Cajun seafood options. This unexpected fusion brings a flavorful, zesty dimension to their offerings, allowing diners to enjoy a different kind of culinary experience under the same roof.

• Appetizers: To complement your main course, they offer a selection of delicious appetizers. These include classics like Edamame, Takoyaki (ball-shaped octopus dumplings), Chicken Karaage (deep-fried chicken), Pork Gyoza, Harumaki (fried spring rolls), and Shrimp Tempura. They also have French fries and Cajun fries for a more casual snack.

• Salads: Lighter options like House Salad, Avocado Salad, Seaweed Salad, and Kani Salad are available for those looking for a fresh start or a lighter meal.

• Buns: Enjoy their savory bun options, including Pork Bun, Beef Bun, and Shrimp Bun.

• Acai and Signature Bowls: Beyond the savory, Pirate Captain also offers a selection of refreshing and healthy acai bowls and other signature bowls like the Salmon Lover Bowl, Tuna Lover Bowl, Crazy Crab Bowl, Tropical Salad Bowl, and Gyudon Bowl.

• Smoothies and Slushies: To round out your meal or for a refreshing treat, they also serve a variety of smoothies and slushies.

Pirate Captain has several standout features that make it a local favorite in Chapel Hill:

• Generous Portions: A recurring theme in customer reviews is the ample serving sizes. Many diners mention that the portions are so substantial, they often have leftovers, providing great value for the price. This is particularly appealing for students or anyone with a hearty appetite.

• Fresh Ingredients: Customers consistently highlight the freshness of the ingredients, especially in their poke bowls where the fish is noted as being of high quality. This commitment to fresh components translates into a more flavorful and enjoyable dining experience.

• Diverse Menu: While the name "ramen restaurant" might suggest a singular focus, Pirate Captain's menu is surprisingly broad. The inclusion of poke bowls, Cajun seafood, various appetizers, and even acai bowls means there's truly something for everyone, making it suitable for groups with diverse preferences.

• Consistent Quality: Many long-time patrons, including college students who have been eating there for years, praise the consistent deliciousness of the food. This reliability ensures that you can expect the same great taste and quality with every visit.

• Friendly Atmosphere: Pirate Captain aims to provide a comfortable and warm atmosphere where friends and families can gather. The overall dining experience is designed to be enjoyable, with good food, good drinks, and good times.

• Highly-Rated Dishes: Popular items like the Tonkotsu Ramen and Poke Bowls consistently receive high ratings from customers, cementing their status as must-try dishes.

While specific, ongoing promotions are best confirmed directly with the restaurant, Pirate Captain often offers competitive pricing for its generous portions, which many customers already consider a great value. For the most current specials, it's always recommended to check their official website or social media channels, or inquire directly when you visit or call. Some online delivery platforms may also feature their own deals or discounts for orders from Pirate Captain.

For direct inquiries, takeout orders, or to confirm hours and specials, you can reach Pirate Captain using the following information:

Address: 163 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA

Phone: (919) 968-2098

For anyone in North Carolina, especially those residing in or frequently visiting the Chapel Hill area, Pirate Captain offers a compelling dining option that goes beyond just a meal. It's a place that genuinely caters to the local community, from its convenient location on bustling Franklin Street to its diverse and consistently praised menu.

The restaurant's dedication to offering generous portions of fresh, flavorful food makes it an excellent value. Whether you’re a busy student looking for a fulfilling and quick bite between classes, a family searching for a casual yet delicious dinner spot, or simply a local craving some of the best ramen or poke in the Triangle area, Pirate Captain delivers. Its fusion of traditional Japanese ramen, fresh poke, and even unexpected Cajun influences means there’s always something new and exciting to try, ensuring repeat visits remain interesting.

The positive reviews from customers, particularly those highlighting the quality of the ramen broth, the freshness of the poke ingredients, and the overall satisfying experience, speak volumes. Pirate Captain isn't just a restaurant; it's a reliable and enjoyable culinary destination that has firmly established itself as a go-to spot for delicious Asian-inspired cuisine in Chapel Hill. Supporting Pirate Captain means supporting a local business that consistently strives to offer great food and a welcoming environment to its North Carolina patrons.

PIRATE CAPTAIN

163 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA