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Hospitality industry veterans, Max Trujillo and Matthew Weiss, get behind the scenes of North Carolina's burgeoning food and beverage culture. Hear from local chefs, sommelier's, distillers, farmers, brewers and the whole lot of them in the NC F&B podcast. 

"Our intention is to create a behind-the-scenes conversation between industry professionals. Whether we are speaking with an advanced level sommelier about their wine program or a chef about breaking down an entire pig, we just want the conversation to be real, unedited and honest. The food and beverage world is a unique industry, and North Carolina's food scene is growing everyday.

Take a listen. We hope to entertain, teach and inspire while offering some specific information about the NC food scene."

 -Max & Matt

Feb 13, 2025

In this episode of the North Carolina Food and Beverage Podcast, host Max Trujillo interviews Lee Robinson, the current owner of the iconic Irregardless in Raleigh. Lee took over the cafe in 2020, just 10 weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic hit. They discuss the history of Irregardless, including its origins as a vegetarian sandwich shop in the 1970s, its evolution over the years, and the community's love for the establishment.

Lee shares his journey in the restaurant industry, having worked in various notable Raleigh establishments like Frazier's and The Pit. The conversation also touches on the cafe's recent innovations, including introducing THC-infused beverages, aiming to maintain its roots while appealing to newer generations.

The episode highlights the upcoming 50th-anniversary celebration of Irregardless and Lee's ongoing efforts to ensure its legacy continues in the ever-evolving Raleigh food scene.

The NC F&B Podcast is produced, engineered and edited by Max Trujillo of @Trujillo.Media

For inquiries about being a guest, or to sponsor the show, email max@ncfbpodcast.com