Raleigh's Culinary Growth: An Interview with Amber Moshakos

Melissa interviews Amber Moshakos of family-owned LM Restaurants, the group behind concepts including Carolina Ale House, Taverna Agora, Birdie’s Ballroom, Vidrio, Oceanic/Bluewater in Wrightsville Beach, and SMASH on Glenwood South. Amber shares her parents’ immigrant story, how LM began as a 48-seat Florida oyster bar, and why the family moved to Raleigh after expanding Miami Subs. She discusses growing up in the business, choosing restaurants over medical school, and the pros and cons of working with family. The conversation covers Raleigh as an emerging, diverse dining market, current industry challenges like thin margins and rising credit card fees, what makes restaurants successful, and why experience-driven venues are growing. Amber also mentions favorite menu items, spots she wants to try, and upcoming LM projects in Florida and brand updates in Raleigh.00:00 Meet Amber Moshakos 02:42 Family Origins and First Restaurant04:58 Greek Roots Behind Taverna Agora05:49 Moving to Raleigh and Early Growth07:16 Choosing Restaurants Over Medicine07:58 Making Family Business Work09:20 LM Expansion and Florida Return12:00 Raleigh Food Scene Evolution17:13 Industry Challenges and Credit Fees19:24 Sales Tax Relief Push20:11 Restaurant Success Formula20:58 Experience Dining Trend22:33 Glenwood South Safety Plan24:44 Advice for New Restaurateurs26:43 Favorite Dishes Rundown28:04 Non-LM Date Night Picks29:51 What’s Next for LM31:36 Hiring and Career Myths32:55 Closing Thanks and Wrap