Chef Ashley Christensen to close Poole’side Pies

Renowned Raleigh restaurateur will close Poole’side Pies after service on Saturday, Dec. 23 and open another AC Restaurant in its place.

The facade of Poole'side Pies.

This downtown pizza spot has served the Raleigh community since 2019.

Photo by RALtoday

This is your sign to grab your last slice of sausage alla vodka from Poole’side Pies before it’s too late. James Beard Award-winning Chef Ashley Christensen announced that the downtown restaurant will close after service on Saturday, Dec. 23.

But no knead to be sad — the renowned Raleigh restaurateur plans to open a new AC concept in its place in the coming months.

“This was not an easy decision but it’s one we’ve made carefully and in response to our community’s ever-evolving needs,” said Chef Christensen in a newsletter announcement.

This pizza spot, located beside the Raleigh Convention Center, has served inventive slices, fan-favorite apps like the pickle juice Caesar salad, and nostalgic summer vibes since 2019.

Though we will miss this saucy spot, we can’t wait to see what Chef Christensen has up her white jacket sleeve.

More from RALtoday
This one-of-a-kind floral fundraiser is at the NC Museum of Art through Sunday, March 22.
March is here, and Triangle basketball is better than ever. See where Duke, UNC, and NC State men’s and women’s basketball teams landed during March Madness and where to see them play next.
Raleigh restaurants, cafes, and diners serving up all the eggs, pancakes, mimosas, and other brunch favorites you want to eat.
Give your kiddos a summer filled with fun at these local summer camps.
Oscar Diaz, from Durham’s Little Bull and Aaktun, is one of 15 “cheftestants” on season 23 of Bravo’s “Top Chef,” and we learned more about his favorite local spots at the Charlotte premiere.
Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Needlepoint is one of the biggest “analog hobby” trends. Here’s where to learn and meet other stitchers.
In case you hadn’t noticed, Raleigh’s growing in a big way, and some mixed-use developments are set to transform downtown + Midtown in 2026 and beyond. Here’s what you need to know about three major developments.
Discover the top Raleigh business podcasts, voices, and local resources our readers are tuning into — from must-listen interviews to expert insights.