Midtown magazine May June 2021

MAY/JUNE 2021

TRIANGLE LAKE ESCAPES +RELAXED STYLES F O R A DAY O N T H E W AT E R

NC BEACH BUCKET LIST CAMPING ADVENTURES

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FACES O F RALEI GH

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T

E DITOR’S LET T ER here’s something about a lake as its tranquil waters expand before you.

Gentle winds ripple the surface and tug at fishing lines. Docks hosting divers and toe-dippers careen with the current.

Pontoons cruise effortlessly by as bowriders make waves for children splashing on the shore. Don’t forget the music and margaritas flowing out of the marina to welcome tired boaters. Are the lyrics to Carrie Underwood’s “Southbound” floating through your mind right about now?

We’re taking you to the lake in this issue—15 of them, to be exact! Explore North Carolina’s bountiful, beautiful inland seas in “Triangle Lake Escapes” on page 34. Then “Drift Away” to page 45 for some inspiring lakewear ensembles you can relax into for a lazy day on the water.

If you’re more of a beach bum than lake lover, don’t miss “A North Carolina Beach Bucket List” on page 58. From the Outer Banks to the beaches of Wilmington, discover 40 don't-miss attractions along our expansive coast. And be sure to read our Chef’s Table spotlight on Cape Fear Seafood Company on page 100, where you can experience a taste of the sea locally.

Camping adventures across North Carolina vary from roughing it to ‘glamping’ it up. Find out how one Triangle family endured their first camping experience in “Adventuring Through Imperfection” on page 66—and discover more glamorous ways to camp on page 71.

Renowned Raleigh musician Rod Abernethy makes a resurgent return with his second album, ‘Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore’. Learn more about his new acoustic guitar–driven folk and Americana songs—as well as the story behind his return—in “Second Wind” on page 98.

The Carolina Panthers are working with the City of Raleigh to build a challenge course at Barwell Park. Along with traditional playground structures, the course will offer a 40-yard sprint track, traverse wall, floating boards and other obstacles designed to develop speed, agility, balance and coordination. Learn more on page 103.

Loden Properties acquired and began renovating a Raleigh gem in early 2019.

What was once an iconic Travelodge and later a Days Inn is now restored as The Longleaf Hotel—a modernistic, mid-century lodge nestled near the heart of downtown. Explore this new boutique hotel experience on page 104. And not too far away, mixed-use developments are heating up Raleigh’s urban core. Learn more about the North Hills Innovation District, Smoky Hollow and Tower Two at Bloc[83] in “Rising Up” on page 108.

Take a tour through nature and history on page 112, where you’ll learn all about “Wake’s Tenacious Lady”—Historic Yates Mill. This circa 1756 structure is the last standing and operating water-powered gristmill in the county.

Finally, don’t miss our annual FACES of Raleigh special section, which you'll find in two segments that begin on pages 75 and 115. Read stories of the incredible individuals, entrepreneurs and organizations that are helping to make Raleigh the South’s best place to live, work and play. We encourage you to drop by and get to know them and the amazing services they offer!

Beth Shugg, Editor Your opinions matter to us. Let us know what you think of this issue of Midtown magazine.

Please email beth@midtownmag.com with your comments.

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PUBLI S H ER Ronny Stephens EDI TOR Beth Shugg C R EATI V E DI R ECTOR Linda J. Van de Zande A DV ERTI S I N G DESIGN/ G R A PH I C DES I G NE R Sean Byrne A DV ERTI S I N G DESIGN/ COPY EDI TO R Cindy Huntley SOCIAL MEDIA/ COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Brittany Murdock S EN I O R ACCOUN T EX EC UTIVE S Meredith Mills Charis Painter ACCO UN T EX EC UT IVE Aubrey Finley INTERN Isabella Hua DI STR I BUTI O N Joe Lizana, Manager DistribuTech.net CON TR I BUTI N G WR I TER S Elliot Acosta, Elizabeth Brignac, Kurt Dusterberg, Samantha Gratton, Mandy Howard, Bryan Reed, Charlotte Russell, Mick Schulte, Anita Stone, Melissa Wistehuff CO N TR I BUTI N G PH OTOG R A PH ERS Bruce DeBoer, Jared Caldwell, MASH Photography, Brian Mullins Midtown magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduc-

tion in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2021. All rights reserved.

Midtown magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or art. Unsolicited material is welcome and is consid-

ered intended for publication. Such material becomes the property of the magazine and is subject to editing. Midtown magazine will

not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of U.S. equal opportunity law.

SUBSCRIPTIONS 6 print issues (1 year) Available online at midtownmag.com 4818-204 Six Forks Road Raleigh, NC 27609 Phone: 919.782.4710 Fax: 919.782.4763

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CONTENTS M AY / J U N E

2 0 2 1

N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation.

F E AT U R E S

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T R I ANG L E L AK E E S C APE S

Explore North Carolina's bountiful

lake destinations

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D R I FT AW AY

Relax into these styles

for a lazy lake day

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A NO R T H C AR O L I NA B E AC H B U C K E T L I S T

40 don't-miss coastal attractions

and experiences

AD V E NT U R I NG T H R O U G H I M PE R FE C T I O N

MASH Photography

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A Triangle family embraces their

first camping experience

ON THE COVER:

Raleigh resident Ellen Nightingale models relaxed

lakeside fashions at a vacation rental home on Lake Gaston.

Photographed by Bruce DeBoer with assistant Jared Caldwell.

CONTENTS

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MASH Photography

D E P A R T M E N T S MUSIC

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Rod Abernethy makes a resurgent return

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Cape Fear Seafood Company expands its offerings and locations

C H E F' S T AB L E

103 S PO R T S

Barwell Road Park will soon accommodate a challenge course 100

Brittany Murdock

Kane Realty Corporatoin

104 D O W NT O W N

The Longleaf Hotel & Lounge developers

reinvent a Raleigh gem

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108 C O M M U NI T Y

Mixed-use developments rise up in Raleigh 112 H I S T O R Y

Historic Yates Mill offers a glimpse of the past

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IN EVERY ISSUE

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O N T H E S C E NE

Social Scene ǀ Home Styler ǀ Foodie Focus | Tastes of the City ǀ Sister Cities

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Dine & Draft ǀ Events ǀ Midtown Mingles ǀ New Around Town

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K AL E I D O S C O PE L I V I NG

O U T & AB O U T

S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N T 143

20 O P E N D O O R 32 Z AY TO U N O R T H O D O N T I C S 44 AG A P E L A W N C O M PA N Y 75 FAC E S O F R A L E I G H 115 F A C E S O F R A L E I G H ( C O N T I N U E D )

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SPONSORED CONTENT HOME TRENDS

Summer’s Hot Housing Market Buying and selling with Opendoor in Raleigh Buying or selling a home can be one of life’s most stressful experiences, especially in a hot market like Raleigh-Durham. Trying to navigate the process—from establishing a timeframe for moving to understanding how to stand out to a seller or evaluate the best offer from a potential buyer—can make homeowners feel uncertain or overwhelmed.

Recent data from Opendoor shows that home buyers are turning to technology to understand how to make smarter decisions and take control of the process, with 73% of people in the Triangle noting that they’re open to buying a home through digital tools. Are you thinking about buying or selling a home this summer? Here are three reasons to consider working with Opendoor— the leading digital real estate platform—for a simple, certain and fast experience.

GET A COMPETITIVE, CERTAIN OFFER ON YOUR HOME (IN MINUTES!) At Opendoor, we’re streamlining the home selling process into just a few clicks online.

Skip the stress of spring cleaning and making seasonal updates to your home to get it list‑ready.

cash offer to a seller—free of financing, appraisal and home sale contingencies, even if you need a home loan.

Visit opendoor.com, type in your address and provide some details about your home—it takes less than 10 minutes. From there, Opendoor will send you an estimate and, if you like it, the next step is a quick video walk-through of your home.

No one has to come inside, It’s completely safe, and fully contact-free.

ELIMINATE THE STRESS OF MOVING Rather than stressing about lining up your moving timelines, Opendoor will buy your home directly or help you list it. You control when you move and have the opportunity to choose your closing date—anytime between 14 or 90 days— and have the flexibility to change that date if something comes up.

AS A BUYER, STAND OUT AMONG THE COMPETITION With longer and brighter days, summer is the busiest homebuying season of the year. While house hunting in a competitive market like the Triangle can be daunting, there are ways to stand out and strengthen your offer once you find your dream home.

Jon Enberg Regional General Manager for Opendoor opendoor.com

With Opendoor’s cash-backed offers program, homebuyers can present the certainty of an allThe information on this page is provided to the public by the advertiser mentioned above.

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the ON SCENE |

HOME STYLER

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FOODIE FOCUS

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TASTES OF THE CITY

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SISTER CITIES

Brittany Murdock

SOCIAL SCENE

ASALI DESSERTS & CAFE MAY/JUNE 2021

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SOCIAL SCENE

LET’S CONNECT! TEXT AND PHOTOS BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

Craving something sweet? Make your way to Asali Desserts & Cafe in Cary for some delectable macarons.

Choose from flavors like lemon lavender, cake batter, blueberry cream cheese, vanilla and more. For a full list of menu items visit asalievents.com.

Cheeni has opened its second Raleigh location inside the Alexander YMCA at 1603 Hillsborough Street. Inspired by traditional Indian goods with an American twist, menu items include Masala Chai, Meat NaanZa, Mango Thumbprint Cookies and more. Order online at cheeniraleigh.com.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or healthy dinner, take a trip to Guasaca. Inspired by South American cuisine, Guasaca has locations in Raleigh, Morrisville and Durham.

Stop in for a signature arepa or one of the restaurant’s many bowls. Check it out at guasaca.com

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HOME STYLER

SET SAIL!

BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VENDORS

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OR TAKEN BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

There’s nothing more enjoyable than a day out on the lake. Allow your lake house to reflect your unique style with decorative pillows and ceramic vases in calming blue tones. Freshen up the walls with nautical-themed

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artwork from local artists. The possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating your space at the lake.

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1 Seabirds (set of two), $29.99 | The Perfect Piece

2 “Buoys Messing Around” by Trip Park, $2,400 | ArtSource Fine Art & Framing

3 Old Whaling Co. “Coastal Calm” candle, $18 | Gingham & Posh

4 Two-tone ceramic vase with cutout, $65 | The Design Haüs

5 “Take Me to the Lake” throw pillow, $30 | Swagger

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visitnc.com

FOODIE FOC US

Events:

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance has resumed Dine Out Downtown April–June on Saturdays, 5–9 p.m. Enjoy dinner from downtown restaurants as you dine outdoors on closed streets and listen to live music by local musicians. Learn more at downtownraleigh.org. Brewgaloo is scheduled for June 11 and 12 in downtown Raleigh. Learn more at shoplocalraleigh.org/ brewgaloo. Raleigh Veg Fest 2021, originally scheduled for April 4, has moved to October 31 in downtown Raleigh’s Moore Square. Learn more at facebook.com/events/203692867399276.

Torchy’s Tacos

New Openings:

A “coming soon” sign is up at the former Sub Conscious Subs location at 3209 Hillsborough Street for Italian Kitchen of Raleigh. No web presence yet—stay tuned. Flying Biscuit Café will open a second Triangle-area location here in Raleigh (the original location is in Village District). It will be adjacent to the Mellow Mushroom. No word yet on an open date; follow the restaurant’s progress at facebook.com/flyingbiscuitraleigh. Pine State Public House is now open at 410 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 300. The space features a large patio, live music, craft beer and cocktails. Learn more at pinestateraleigh.com. Torchy’s Tacos will open in Midtown East in early May. Known for scratch-made tacos, fresh margaritas and its award-winning Green Chile Queso, Torchy’s Tacos will open with safe dine-in, patio, takeout and delivery service.

Relocations:

Fine Folk recently announced on Instagram that it has signed a lease for a “forever” home in the former Brew location just behind Union Special in Gateway Plaza. Look for the restaurant to open in late summer. In the meantime, enjoy Fine Folks out of Union Special Wednesday through Saturday nights. Check for updates on Instagram @finefolknc.

Announcements:

Zayka Indian Cuisine in Raleigh’s Brierdale Shopping Center on Moncreiffe Road recently announced that celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor of the Renaissance Hotel by Marriott, Radisson, Sheraton and ITC in New Delhi, India, has joined its kitchen. Chef Kapoor, who has won national and international culinary awards, has worked with world-renowned chefs such as David Rocco and Purshotam Ratudi. Check out the menu at zaykaraleigh.com.

Come Hungry!

BY SEAN LENNARD / TRIANGLE FOOD GUY / TRIANGLEFOODBLOG.COM

Sean Lennard has been catering in the Triangle for more than 15 years, and his blog is a go-to foodie hotspot. He taps into local restaurant partners, and his online catering business, Triangle Food Guy, serves events of all sizes. Check out trianglefoodblog.com for weekly news..

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TASTES OF THE CITY Contact Raleigh Food Pics to be featured on their Instagram feed: raleighfoodpics@gmail.com.

COMPILED BY ISABELLA HUA

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1) Berré Claire: Stuffed waffle cones with cheesecake. 2) Wye Hill: French toast, apple and apple butter. 3) La Santa: El elote (Mexican corn on the cob) with mayonnaise and queso fresco. 4) Nancy’s Pizzeria: Spicy Pepino stuffed pizza with pepperoni, banana peppers and hot giardiniera.

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SISTER CITIES

Above photos courtesy of Beech Mountain TDA

QUILT TRAILS

Above photos courtesy of Randolph County SWCD

BY CINDY HUNTLEY

Take a driv ing t ou r throu gh Av e ry a n d Ra n d o l ph co u n t ie s to c el ebrate rura l N ort h Ca rol i n a’s cu l t u re a n d a rt s You’ve probably been on a quilt trail at some point in your life without realizing it. They meander through rural areas and are comprised of a series of painted wood or metal squares, each with a different meaning.

Some quilt squares represent a building or family, or the history of the land they are on. Other squares are more whimsical, speaking, instead, to the everyday life of a region, or the interests of their sponsors. Two North Carolina counties especially known for robust quilt trails are Avery and Randolph.

AVERY COUNTY

RANDOLPH COUNTY

of the Appalachian region, winding and wending through

Piedmont Conservation Council. It features 44 quilt squares

Avery County’s quilt trail explores the natural beauty and heritage popular destinations such as Beech Mountain, Banner Elk and

Linville Falls. Several squares represent traditional Appalachian quilt patterns, such as “Carolina Star,” “Beech Mountain Blue

Belle” and “Mystery Flower Garden.” You’ll also discover quirkier, more modern squares such as “Kaleidoscope,” “Tulips” and

even a “Halloween” square. Unique to this trail, a series of three

quilts at stop #13—“Albie’s Dream,” “Hiker” and “Biker”—mark the trailhead for the Emerald Outback trail system near Banner Elk. beechmtn.com/avery-county-quilt-trail

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Randolph County’s quilt trail started in 2010 as a project of the showcasing local farm families’ heritage that were painted and hung by volunteers from the Randolph County Quilters Guild.

The squares include everything from traditional quilt patterns, such as stars and wedding ring designs, to unique icons, such

as tobacco leaves, rocking horses and Christmas trees. Visitors

are encouraged to stop and take photos from the roadside, and some of the farms offer seasonal produce and goods for sale. randolphcountync.gov/Departments/Soil-and-Water/Quilt-Trail

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SPONSORED CONTENT POLISHED IMPRESSIONS

Choosing Your Family’s Orthodontist The top 3 things you need to know If you’ve ever researched orthodontists but didn’t know exactly what to look for, we can offer some guidance. In searching to find the best provider for your family, you will likely come across very similar treatment options. But it’s important to know that not all treatments are the same. At Zaytoun Orthodontics, it’s our mission to serve others well by creating beautiful, healthy smiles, caring for our patients and supporting our community. To that end, we want you to be empowered to find the right fit for YOU and your smile! Here are what we feel should be your top three considerations:

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DOES THE ORTHODONTIST I’M CONSIDERING HAVE EXTENSIVE EXPERIENCE? When it comes to the health and esthetics of your smile, experience is key. Extensive experience allows your orthodontist to provide professional care that matches your needs. You should ask:

How long has this orthodontist been in practice?

How many patients has he or she helped? Does he or she attend continuing education courses to stay up to date with the latest advances in the orthodontic field?

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DOES HE OR SHE USE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY? Technology plays an important role in orthodontic care because it impacts diagnostics, efficiency of treatment, comfort and accuracy. From digital scanners (instead of yucky impressions) and in-house 3D printing, to soft tissue lasers, and the latest and greatest in braces and aligners, your orthodontist should utilize up-to-date technologies to help make your treatment fast, easy and even fun!

3

DOES HE OR SHE MAKE YOUR TIME A PRIORITY? Making the decision to get orthodontic treatment shouldn’t interrupt your entire schedule. In

today’s fast-paced world, we know just how valuable your time is. Your orthodontist should offer flexible scheduling and the ability to start treatment from the first appointment.

Finding the perfect orthodontic home can be a tricky decision. But take it from “an insider in the industry”—if these top three considerations are covered, you will be well on your way to a happy, healthy smile and a great experience. I encourage you to settle for nothing short of the best. Your smile deserves it!

Zaytoun Orthodontics zaytounorthodontics.com 919.782.6911 Locations in Raleigh, Cary and Garner

The information on this page is provided to the public by the advertiser mentioned above.

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FEATURES |

LAKE LIFE FASHION

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BEACH BUCKET LIST

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CAMPING ADVENTURES

MASH Photography

TRIANGLE LAKE ESCAPES

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La ke James 34 | midtownmag.com

Tri a n g le La ke Es c a pes Explore N o rth C a r o l i n a ’ s b o u nti fu l , beauti fu l la ke d esti n ati o n s

BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF

Bookended by mountains and beaches, there is no doubt that North Carolina is one of the country’s most beautiful places to live.

But if you’re looking for an easy getaway, look no further than one of nearly 60 lakes scattered throughout the Tar Heel state.

marshmallows while camping, or picturesque terrain for hiking or biking, North Carolina’s lakes—all within a few hour’s drive of the Triangle—offer a myriad of ways to spend the day outdoors. It’s time to start planning your great lake escape.

F a ll s L a k e

N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation

N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation photo by Kevin Bischof

Whether you seek a sunny boat ride, shady site for roasting

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Jo rd a n La ke

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F a ll s L a k e

Like Falls of Neuse Road in Raleigh, Falls Lake is named for the rocky falls and cascades on the Neuse River. Located in Wake, Durham and Granville counties, this 12,410-acre, man-made reservoir accommodates 5,035 acres of shoreline and was constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to protect downstream areas from flooding. The lake also serves as a source for drinking water for the City of Raleigh and surrounding communities. Its seven access areas and Rollingview Marina make boating entry easy. And with more than 300 campsites, Falls Lake is a popular place for weekend getaways. Other recreation opportunities include parks, hiking and biking trails, fishing areas and three sandy beaches. ncparks.gov/falls-lake-state-recreation-area

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 23 miles

Jo rd a n La ke B. Everett Jordan Lake is a reservoir in New Hope Valley, west of Cary and south of Durham. Named for U.S. North Carolina State Senator Benjamin Everett Jordan, this 14,000-acre lake was also created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers when the Haw and New Hope rivers were dammed. Like Falls Lake, Jordan Lake provides its surrounding communities with drinking water. It offers nine boat access areas and is a popular spot for campers, since it has more than 1,000 campsites for RVs and tents. Crosswinds Boating Center is the lake’s marina, and bird watchers often spot soaring eagles. Jordan Lake offers several recreation areas for swimming, fishing, hiking and other activities. ncparks.gov/jordan-lake-state-recreation-area

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 25 miles

Hyc o La ke

Hyco Lake, a cooling reservoir for the steam electric generating units belonging to Duke Energy (once known as Carolina Power & Light Company and later Progress Energy), was constructed on the Hyco River and, by 1965, had filled up naturally with overflow water from 1964’s Hurricane Hilda. The 3,750-acre lake, located near the North Carolina/Virginia border, was once the location of one of North Carolina’s oldest tobacco farms. The lake’s name stems from the Native American word “hicotaminy,” meaning turkey buzzard—a bird that has long inhabited the area. Now a popular lake on which many people live or rent (it accommodates 1,500 homes, 800 of which are occupied year-round), Hyco Lake offers a beautiful backdrop for any type of stay. hycolake.com

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 76 miles

Mayo La ke

Formed in 1983 when Carolina Power & Light built an earthen dam in Mayo Creek to create cooling waters for Mayo Electric Generating Plant, 2,800-acre Mayo Lake offers a peaceful respite. Also known as Mayo Reservoir, the lake is located in Person County near the Virginia border and is surrounded by a 120-acre park, which offers visitors access to both RV and primitive campsites, boat ramps, and two canoe and kayak launch areas. visitnc.com/listing/RmQX/mayo-lake-park

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 67 miles

iStock/Licec

Kerr La ke

Kerr Lake splits in half at the North Carolina/Virginia border. North Carolinians know it as Kerr Lake, named for North Carolina Congressman John H. Kerr, while Virginians call it Buggs Island Lake, named after an island belonging to descendants of an early settler named Samuel Bugg. Originally constructed to produce hydroelectricity and provide flood control, Kerr Lake is one of the Southeast’s largest reservoirs, covering roughly 50,000 acres and containing 850 miles of shoreline. Long known for its well-kept campgrounds, Kerr Lake also claims four privatelyowned marinas and multiple boating ramps. The Carolina Sailing Club stages monthly regattas on the lake April through October, and there several swim beaches in the recreation area. ncparks.gov/kerr-lake-state-recreation-area

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 61 miles MAY/JUNE 2021

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Wh ite La ke

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La ke Ga sto n

Roughly 20,000 acres and 35 miles long, Lake Gaston accommodates permanent and vacation residences, and includes four hydroelectric generators. The lake formed in 1963 when Virginia Electric and Power Company built a dam on the Roanoke River, causing it to straddle the North Carolina/Virginia border. Lake Gaston offers a casual atmosphere with stunning scenery for those seeking a short or long getaway. Countless restaurants, vacation rentals, several marinas, boat launches and plenty of recreational variety make Lake Gaston a great getaway for Triangle residents. lakegastonguide.com

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 86 miles

Hi g h Ro c k La ke

Known for its bass, High Rock Lake in Lexington is considered one of North Carolina’s best fishing spots, and often hosts fishing and angling tournaments. Nearby High Rock Mountain, which is considered the highest point in the Uwharrie Mountains, towers over the dam, creating a stunning backdrop. With more than 15,180 acres and 360 acres of shoreline, much of the lake is lined with homes, and there are several public ramps for boat launching. A favorite activity for many who visit High Rock Lake is paddling to the Yadkin River State Trail. visitnc.com/listing/gewG/high-rock-lake

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 122 miles

La ke No rma n

Forget the Loch Ness Monster. “Normie” is Lake Norman’s unidentifiable amphibious creature. Normie sightings have been reported since 1996, and though no one knows how to explain the phenomenon, Normie has added to 32,500-acre Lake Norman’s allure, attracting many visitors who come in search of the underwater beast. Named for former Duke Energy President Norman Atwater Cocke, Lake Norman is North Carolina’s largest man-made body of fresh water. Fed by the Catawba River, Lake Norman is referred to as the “inland sea” of North Carolina, offering 520 miles of shoreline and serving as home to nearly 18,000 residents. visitlakenorman.org

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 158 miles

Wh ite La ke

White Lake is a natural spring and rainwater-fed lake located south of the Triangle in Bladen County. Known as a resort community offering apartments, hotels, campgrounds, RV facilities and restaurants, White Lake also offers amusement parks, festivals and year-round events. But the 1,200-acre lake is mainly known for its white sandy bottom and clear water, making it a favorite swimming destination for North Carolinians and beyond. whitelakenc.org

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 91 miles

La ke James

Western North Carolina’s 6,800-acre Lake James boasts clear water, mountain biking trails and campsites, including a boat-in campground. The Paddy’s Creek Area offers canoe, kayak and paddleboard rentals— a perfect way to wind down after a day of hiking the lake’s trails. ncparks.gov/lake-james-state-park

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 211 miles

visitnc.com

L a k e T i ll e r y

This 5,000-acre reservoir featuring 104 miles of shoreline is located between Badin Lake and Blewett Falls Lake in the Uwharrie Lakes Region of North Carolina. Created by an impoundment in the Pee Dee River, Lake Tillery weaves around Morrow Mountain State Park and Uwharrie National Forest. Visitors can book a hotel or rent a home, and dine at a variety of restaurants. laketillery.com

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 111 miles MAY/JUNE 2021

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S m a ll but M i g ht y The jewel of 680-acre Harris Lake County Park, Harris Lake covers 4,100 acres and is the cooling reservoir for the Shearon Harris Nuclear Plant in New Hill. Offering picnic shelters, hiking trails, fishing areas, a disc golf course and two public boat ramps, Harris Lake is a perfect day trip destination for Triangle residents.

Harris Lake

Liz Goodman

Ha rri s La ke

iStock/Licec

wakegov.com/departmentsgovernment/parksrecreation-and-open-space/ all-parks-trails/harris-lakecounty-park

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 25 miles

La ke Cra btree

Lake Crabtree is a 520-acre reservoir that was created in 1989 when Crabtree Creek was dammed as a way to alleviate flooding. Located in Morrisville near RaleighDurham International Airport, Lake Crabtree is small but filled with recreational fun, including hiking and mountain biking trails, sand volleyball courts, paddling rentals and ramps for non-gasoline-powered boats. wakegov.com/departmentsgovernment/parks-recreationand-open-space/all-parks-trails/ lake-crabtree-county-park

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 13 miles

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Lake Crabtree

iStock/Sestevens

iStock/Fulcrumsf

Lake Wheeler

Lake Johnson

La ke Wh eeler

This 650-acre lake is perfect for those who seek a tranquil day on the water in a small fishing boat. Lake Wheeler’s surrounding 150 acres include a playground, sand volleyball court and covered shelter rentals, as well as pedal boat and kayak rentals. raleighnc.gov/places/lake-wheeler-park

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 9 miles

La ke Jo h n s o n

Lake Johnson offers a prime location near downtown Raleigh and North Carolina State University. It features a paved walking trail, unpaved hiking trails, boat rentals, rocking chairs and a fishing bridge. A top choice for dog walkers, Lake Johnson does not allow motorboats on its 150 acres of water, making for a quiet, less crowded day on the water. raleighnc.gov/places/lake-johnson-park

Distance from downtown Raleigh: 8 miles

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PHOTOJOURNALISM AS ART KAREN TAM PHOTOGRAPHER facebook.com/karentamphotography 42 | midtownmag.com

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Creating Your Space If the last year taught us anything at all, it was to reimagine and re-evaluate what “Home” means.

Our homes became offices, schools, movie theaters, restaurants and most importantly, safe spaces.

Agape Lawn Company has always taken a great deal of pride in what we help create for our clients. When you choose to make an investment in your home lawn or landscape, we recognize that the finished product shouldn’t just create an esthetic, but also add a sense of pride in the spaces you call home.

Over the past year, the addition of outdoor living spaces has become a very popular and, now more than ever, almost necessary addition. When creating those spaces, the design of the project and what you want to add to it are both equally important in order to provide your family with a place to entertain, gather and, sometimes, just get away!

iStock/YinYang

SPONSORED CONTENT OUTDOOR LIVING

Often, you might see a lush garden or patio space surrounded by flowers or other beautiful plants, maybe some nice furniture as well … but is it in direct sunlight? How will it feel in late afternoon as the sun is setting? Is there adequate landscape lighting so you can entertain in the evening?

Does the placement of your new space account for leaves and debris buildup in the fall? These are all questions and details we bring to the forefront in the planning process so we can create a true outdoor living space for your home. Choosing the style of your custom patio, outdoor kitchen, firepit or garden space, is an incredibly important part of the process. Having the right design of those elements that truly provides that place of comfort and creates your personal sanctuary can be priceless!

A healthy, beautiful lawn and landscape makes for a happy home. We have so many wonderful projects already underway for 2021, and very much look forward to your next project as well.

Agape Lawn Company Marketing Director Ronnie Blanton has served as a landscape foreman and operations manager for companies in both the Charlotte and Triad markets.

Agape Lawn Company agapelawnco.com 919.672.2509 2216 S. Miami Boulevard, Suite 102 Durham, North Carolina 27703

The information on this page is provided to the public by the advertiser mentioned above.

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Away D r i f t

WRITTEN BY BETH SHUGG

PHOTOS BY BRUCE DEBOER

ASSISTED BY JARED CALDWELL

Every lake escape requires a relaxed attitude

and wardrobe. Nautical blues on breezy fabrics set the tone for carefree fun.

Gold and silver bangles sparkle against

crisp whites—and pair nicely with colorful cocktails. Lightweight jackets and floppy

hats protect, stylishly, against cool breezes and mid-day rays. Slip-on sandals and

slides glide effortlessly on and off for toe-dipping temptations.

APPAREL BY GATORBUG AND SWAGGER SUNDRY ITEMS BY NOFO @ THE PIG

Relax

into these styles

for a lazy day

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on the lake

Nautical Navy

Pair navy and white stripes with a pop of orange. Keep a cardigan handy for lake winds and post-sunset chills.

Balmy Blue Pack a light blue midi dress for summer’s peak temps.

Add sophistication—and sun protection—with a wide-brimmed straw hat.

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Dock Daze Keep it simple

on the dock.

Go with breezy

fabrics,eyelets

and bare feet.

Dockside

Delicacies 48 | midtownmag.com

Pack a picnic to

graze on throughout the day.

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Dress to Drift Float

fashionably in

a ruffled blouse and skort.

Slide into no-fuss

footwear.

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Thanks to Swagger, The Gatorbug and Nofo @ the Pig for providing these lake leisurewear fashions and products. Thanks also to the following people for their help: photographer, Bruce DeBoer; photography assistant, Jared Caldwell; stylists, Logan Conner and Linda Van de Zande; and models, Ellen Nightingale and Mary Anne Howard.

Clothing from Swagger (non-Swagger brands identified): White jeans ($68); Hem & Thread blue-and-white striped jumpsuit ($50); Mustard Seed light blue silk top ($40); Entro navy eyelet top ($38); Reverie light blue midi dress ($54); black button fly jeans ($64); peach top with ruffles ($34); Kancan white jacket ($54); Hem & Thread blue stripe dress ($44); light blue tiered dress ($50).

Jewelry from Swagger: Bracelets—five-strand white with marble ($28); five-strand white with wood ($24); fourstrand with wood ($24); four-strand blue ($24); circle bracelet ($14). Necklaces—Liza multicolor ($30); Canvas gold chain ($40); Stella wooden statement ($30). Earrings— Stella hot pink two-circle seed bead ($24); Stella yellow wood circle ($30); Stella multicolor oval ($18); Canvas gold chain ($20); silver rectangles ($20); Stella silver hoops ($20); Stella white shell circle ($18); Stella purple shell ($20); navy circle ($22).

Bags/hats/sunglasses from Swagger: The Royal Standard striped canvas bag ($44); tan-and-white striped hat ($28); straw hat with black tie ($30); cream circle aviator ($15); black circle aviator ($15); pink aviator ($16).

Clothing from The Gatorbug (non-Gatorbug brands identified): Pelina pants ($84); white maxi dress with pockets ($60); ruffled neck top ($72); v-neck pullover blouse ($94.50); smocked skort ($99.50); Kalani top ($65); Kalani pant ($80); Leana tie-dye dress ($90); Sundays fonda shirt ($154); blue knitted hoodie ($105); Meadow blouse ($158).

Jewelry from The Gatorbug: Chloe lucite hoop earrings ($63); square earrings ($60); pearly white floral stud ($50); brush leaf cuff ($140).

Totes/hats/shoes from The Gatorbug: Neoprene tote ($88); woven bag ($91.25); Raffia Pippa band hat ($84); Campana sandal ($60); Montana pump ($59); Agnetta slide ($65).

Products from Nofo @ the Pig: Products from Nofo @ the Pig: Lark Olive Scourtin crackers 7 ounces, $7.95; Low Country Produce olives 16 ounces, $10.95; Olive Wood Collection board, $27.95; salad servers, $17.95; Chirpy Top wine pourer, $24.95; Beach Glass unbreakable wine glass, $10.95; Anne Bentley 180:melamine plates, $13.95; bowls, $8.95; ceramic mugs, $12.95; glassware, $9.95; dish towel, $12.95; Dock & Bay orange-striped quick dry beach towel, $22.95; Corkcicle Cooler $99.95.

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Twilight

Tie-Dye

Add a splash of vibrancy to your

evening cocktails.

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Something Blue &

Something Gold Blend gauzy

blues with gilded

accessories for a bold

but feminine lake look.

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Sunset Splendor

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Wind down in bright, flowing whites as the sun drops.

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UPROOTED

deboerfineart.com

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J U LY / A U

GUST 20 20

RALEIGH ’S COOL ES

Raleigh’s

T COCKT A

CO OL EST CO CK TA ILS OUTDOOR ESCAPES

ILS, OUT DOO

TRIANGLE STAYCATI ONS

R ESCAP E S AND T RIANGL E S TAYC AT IONS J U LY |

AUGUST 2020

GE T M I DTOWN M AG AZ IN E D E LI V ERED TO YOUR M AI LBOX S U B S C R I B E TO DAY midtownmag.com/ subscribe MAY/JUNE 2021

| 57

A NORTH CAROLINA

ch Bucket List Bea 40 COASTAL AT T RACT I O N S

&

E XPE R I E N C E S

BY MANDY HOWARD

While there is no way to highlight every beach—and we are too smart to join the debate on which beach is best—here are some coastal sights and opportunities every North Carolinian should experience—at least once.

N O RT HER N OU TER BANKS CO ROLLA : Wild Spanish mustangs have made our Outer Banks their home since the 1500s when they arrived with Spanish explorers. Book a Jeep tour from Wild Horse Adventure Tours for up-close views. These feral creatures, which landed here with Spanish explorers in the 1500s, are very tolerant of visitors and have starred in many videos and photographs.

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DU C K : Have an original Duck Donut! Russel DiGilio created Duck Donuts in 2007 in Duck, his family’s favorite place to vacation. Now Duck Donuts is a national chain. Locally, check out Duck Donuts at 8323 Creedmoor Road in Raleigh or 100 Wrenn Drive in Cary.

N AGS H EAD /KITTY H AWK /J OC KEY ’ S RIDGE: Make it a

three-in-one bucket list day.

Start at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, then head to Jockey’s Ridge State Park for kite-flying and an incredible sunset. End with dinner at Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe, where you can enjoy locally caught seafood with a stunning view of the Roanoke Sound.

MAN TEO: Watch “The Lost Colony.” It’s the second-longest-running outdoor historical drama in the U.S. While you're there, visit the Elizabethan Gardens, a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Winner listed in the top 10% of attractions worldwide.

iStock/Traveladventure

iStock/pabradyphoto

Duck Donuts

Currituck Travel & Tourism

Currituck Travel & Tourism

From Corolla to Sunset, North Carolina boasts 322 miles of beautiful beaches.

Within those miles are 25-plus distinct beach towns claiming their own personalities and attractions.

RODAN T HE : Read

“Nights in Rodanthe” by Nicholas Sparks on the beach in Rodanthe, then watch the movie “Nights in Rodanthe” (2008) at the Inn at Rodanthe, which was featured in the movie. The actual property is a private home rental opportunity offering six bedrooms.

CAPE H AT TE RAS:

Go deep-sea fishing. The Outer Banks is home to the National Geographic TV series “Wicked Tuna” (now streaming on Disney+) and boasts some of the best deep-sea fishing opportunities anywhere.

Check out the Miss Hatteras, an ocean vessel boasting halfday trips, full-day trips and sunset cruises.

OC RACOKE ISLAN D :

Dive into pirate lore by exploring the favorite hideout of Edward Teach, aka Blackbeard. View the waters in which Blackbeard met his demise off the coast of Ocracoke Village, then explore Springer’s Point, a peaceful nature preserve that was once home to infamous pirate parties.

OBX BON US: Buy a

beach house! More like a dream than a bucket list item? That’s OK. We all need goals. But if you visit Corolla and Cape Hatteras, keep in mind that they are two of the 25 best places to buy a beach home in the U.S., according to Vacasa, a vacation home property management company.

(Take that, Pacific Coast!)

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60 | midtownmag.com Crystal Coast TDA Mitch Summers

Crystal Coast TDA

Crystal Coast TDA

Crystal Coast TDA

C RYSTAL COAST SH ACKLE FOR D BAN KS: Take a ferry

daytrip. Whether you enjoy birding, collecting seashells or watching a wild pony wander by, this uninhabited island calls out to nature lovers.

AT L AN T I C B E AC H : Attend the annual Atlantic Beach Music Festival, currently scheduled for May 15.

(The situation is still being monitored for a 2021 festival.) A palatable alternative is dinner at Amos Mosquito’s—we recommend starting with the crabcakes!

PIN E KN OLL SH ORES:

Visit the North Carolina Aquarium, which, in addition to locations at Fort Fisher, Roanoke Island and Nags Head, is also located at Pine Knoll Shores.

EMERALD ISLE:

Save the turtles! The Emerald Isle Sea Turtle Patrol offers volunteer training and programs to help visitors understand how to become sea turtle advocates.

BEAR ISLAND:

Reserve a campsite on Bear Island’s beaches— one of the state’s most beautiful coastal destinations—for about $10 per night.

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WI L M IN GTO N AREA /SOUTHERN B EACH ES TO PSAI L B E ACH:

Another three-in-one experience! First, learn how to pronounce “Topsail.” Don’t say, “sail.” It’s TOPs’l, like you’re tripping over the end. Once you’ve mastered that, visit Quarter Moon Books & Gifts in Hampstead, which also offers a wine and coffee bar. Between the coffee and wine, go roller skating nearby at Topsail Beach Skating Rink.

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WRI G H TSVI L L E B E AC H : Learn to surf! Surfer

magazine rated Wrightsville one of America's top-10 surfing towns. WB Surf Camp offers private, group and corporate lessons, in addition to camps. If surfing’s not your sport, start your holiday season with the Jingle Bell Run, the most Christmassy race on the coast.

WILMIN GTON :

Walk the Riverwalk. Voted the No. 2 best riverwalk in a USA Today travel contest, this 1.75-mile scenic trek boasts more than 200 restaurants and attractions. Just a short drive away, dine with Bravo TV’s “Top Chef” star Chef Keith Rhodes at Catch.

CAROLIN A BEACH:

Whether it’s morning, noon or night, stand in line for a donut from Britt’s Donut Shop. Walk it off on the Carolina Beach Boardwalk, where you must take photos with the moon and shark, of course. Then, have the Cape Fear Boil Company bring a shrimp boil to you—including the propane burner! How did no one think of this before?

visitnc.com visitnc.com

A perfect daytrip from the Triangle, this coastal destination offers lifeguards who tend the beach, relatively low-stress parking and public restroom facilities. While you’re there, check out the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher.

BAL D H E A D I S L AN D :

Walk with ghosts and hunt for treasure. Returning this summer, Riverside Adventure Co. will offer themed walking tours for the brave, and unforgettable adventures for the young.

visitnc.com

visitnc.com

KURE B E ACH/ FO RT F I SHE R :

BRUN SWIC K ISLAN DS (OAK ISLAN D / H OLDEN BEAC H / OC EAN ISLE): These

beaches offer the rare distinction of running east-west and parallel to the shore. That means beginning in late fall, you can watch a sunrise and sunset from the same beach chair. Those who are loyal to the islands credit the serenity there to the fact that there are few hotels. Splurge for an oceanfront home to witness the seasonal sunrises and sunsets over the water.

SUN SET BEACH/ BIRD ISLAN D: Mail

your dreams to the universe.

The Kindred Spirit Mailbox is positioned next to a secluded bench 1 mile south of Sunset Beach, inviting visitors to share their hopes and dreams. No wishes are guaranteed to be granted, and no hurts are promised to be healed, but after a moment of unadulterated honesty and commune with nature, who knows—maybe you’ll walk back to Sunset Beach with a renewed spirit.

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FOLLOW TH E LIGH T

Check North Carolina’s enviable collection of lighthouses off your bucket list one by one, or take an ultimate tour of the coastline using lighthouse locations as your compass. From north to south, here’s a quick guide:

CURRITUC K BEAC H LIGH TH OUSE in Corolla

is an active, red brick lighthouse.

At 162 feet tall, the lighthouse’s first-order Fresnel lens (which is the largest size available for American lighthouses) can be seen for 18 nautical miles as the light rotates in 20-second increments.

BOD IE (PRON OUN CED ‘ BODY ’ ) ISLAN D LIGH TH OUSE in Nags Head

features black and white horizontal stripes and is a popular tourist destination with an attached museum and bookshop.

CAPE H AT TERAS LIGH TH OUSE in Buxton is the

tallest and most recognizable of North Carolina’s lighthouses, with black and white diagonal stripes. It stands 208 feet tall and beams light 20 miles out across the ocean.

OC RACOKE LIGH THOUS E

in Ocracoke stands 75 feet tall and is the state’s oldest operating lighthouse. You can’t miss its huge whitewashed base.

CAPE LOOKOUT LIGH TH OUSE towers over

B ODIE ISLAN D L I G H TH OUSE

Harkers Island at 163 feet in height and features a black-and-white diamond pattern. Climbing its 207 steps to the top is not for the faint of heart, and has been compared to climbing a 12-story building.

OAK ISLAN D LIGH THOUS E

iStock/WerksMedia

on Caswell Beach has a three-toned pattern of dark brown, white and tan coloring. Due to recent power fluctuations, its lighting was recently upgraded to newer LED technology.

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OLD BALDY LIGH THOUS E

on Bald Head Island was built in 1817 and presents a patchwork appearance. It’s the state’s southernmost and oldest-standing lighthouse, and marks the mouth of the historic Cape Fear River.

iStock/Charina Brooks

iStock/wbritten

Currituck Travel & Tourism

CUR R I T U C K B EACH LIG HT HOU SE

CAPE LOO KOU T LIG HT HOU SE

OCRACOKE LIG H T H OUS E iStock/JillLang

Crystal Coast TDA

iStock/Rick Lanier

CAPE H AT TERAS L IGHT H OUS E

OAK I S LAN D L IGHT H OUS E

O LD BALDY LIG H T H OUS E

MAY/JUNE 2021

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Adventuring Throug h

Imperfection A T R I A N G L E FA M I LY E M B R AC E S THEIR FIRST CAMPING EXPERIENCE

BY MICK SCHULTE

"

PHOTOS BY MASH PHOTOGRAPHY

He said he traveled to hundreds of towns presenting

about marriage and family life, and whenever he noticed particularly happy and close families, he’d ask them what their secret was. Resoundingly, the most common answer—

"

to his surprise and mine—was camping.

MAY/JUNE 2021

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W

ith a car full of kids, my husband and I drive up to campsite 122 on Falls Lake in Durham. I unpack a trunkload of stuffed animals and remember a premarital conference my husband and I attended almost 13 years ago. His sister had bought us tickets and hoped it might help us avoid typical firstyear marriage conflicts.

I honestly don’t remember much from the conference other than the buildup to the keynote speaker’s “silver bullet” to family and marital bliss. He said he traveled to hundreds of towns presenting about marriage and family life, and whenever he noticed particularly happy and close families, he’d ask them what their secret was.

Resoundingly, the most common answer—to his surprise and mine—was camping. He’d go on to ask the families why camping was so special to them, and the answers always involved an unfortunate story. Lightning striking a nearby tree, the tent collapsing and everyone getting soaked, bears eating the gourmet food they preciously packed or, my personal favorite, Dad secretly waking up in the middle of the night to scare his family only to be met by a hard whack on the head with campfire wood and a trip to the emergency room.

The common thread throughout these happy camper families was suffering. So, my husband and I determined to make that our family motto: “Suffering Makes Us Stronger.”

We almost had T-shirts made.

EMBRACING THE ‘WABI-SABI’

Recently, I learned a Japanese word that encompasses this idea. It can’t be translated into English, but the word “wabi-sabi” alludes to the art of appreciating beauty in our naturally imperfect world;

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where, in any given situation, a person recognizes all the good, the bad and the somewhere-inbetween, understanding that all of it is necessary to appreciate a beautiful and full life.

As I look up at the ominous sky and raindrops fall on my face and glasses, I know this first camping experience with our four kids will create a true wabi-sabi memory. “It’s raining, Mom!” my second child announces with excitement while jumping in a puddle and soaking his shoes. Seems to me, kids are better at embracing the imperfections than we adults are—even though we’ve had so many more opportunities to practice.

Our first year of marriage was a breeze, for the most part.

Any adversity that came our way was met with a determined, furrowed brow and high-five at the end. Then, as life usually does, things got more complicated. We dealt with a season of infertility and miscarriages, leaving us to wonder if we would ever get a chance to put our family motto into practice. During those years, I had a really hard time embracing wabi-sabi, and wondered why I couldn’t find that determined brow line that had served me so well in the past.

Eventually, the children came, and came, and came again—in a two-for-one package, as twins!

It wasn’t an easy journey, but we were so thankful to be parents and shocked at the size of our tribe. Suddenly there were six of us, and our hopes changed from wanting to have children to wanting to parent them well.

This new goal proved much harder than anything we had faced before. If a camping trip is the wabi-sabi of vacations, parenthood is the wabi-sabi of life. There is no escaping the good, the bad and the somewhere-in-between.

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THE STRUGGLE IS REAL

The realization that there is no escape becomes apparent as Mark and I tuck all four kids into their camping beds.

The temperature is already low—around 40 degrees—and we wonder if our meager bedding supplies will sustain our slumber. One child is complaining that he has to wear pants, another is begging to watch a show on our phones, while another is tracking muddy shoes into the tent we borrowed from friends.

Still, it somehow all feels like a grand adventure because of where we’ve been stuck for the past year. 2020 was going to be the start of our adventuring, suffering, packed life with our kids. The twins were finally potty trained and we had some strategies in place for parenting away from home. But just as I was preparing to book a trip, the pandemic hit. We were stuck.

Together. In a confined space, with limited resources to depend on and no end in sight.

It was the ultimate camping trip, except we couldn’t return home after the suffering. The suffering was home!

I know many people took this opportunity to embrace camping and outdoor adventures. Eric Shreenan, the hardgoods manager at Great Outdoor Provision Co. in Raleigh, reports that business during COVID-19 has exploded. “Because other activities have been limited, people are going outdoors more than ever,” he says. “We’ve seen a huge spike in backpacking, paddle sports and car camping.

The local parks have seen a lot of growth as well.”

Despite this rise in outdoor recreation, our household was 70 | midtownmag.com

barely making it through a week of virtual school. At times, we mustered up that old determination and embraced the struggle, but then a wave of uncertainty would dampen our spirits and extinguish any adventurous ideas. After a while, a routine took precedence and veering off track felt risky. The thing that made us most excited about being parents—the adventure of it all—had been lost thanks to a year of being homebound. We needed a change of scenery, and a one-night trip to a local campground felt like a gentle toe-dip into the outdoorsy world.

My daughter looks at me with sticky marshmallow covering her cheeks. “I love camping, Mom,” she declares as we snuggle closer together by the fire. Mark and the boys gather kindling in the woods and watch in awe as the pine needles magically spark a flame. The light dances in our boys’ shining little eyes.

My family sleeps through the night. I sleep about 20 minutes total, frozen and inconveniently recalling a Netflix murder mystery I watched a while back.

Everyone finds their way to Mom and Dad’s double sleeping bag around 7 a.m. I am exhausted and surrounded by the little people we dreamed of long ago. It feels like magic. We drive away from Falls Lake, site 122, thankful for the good, the bad and the somewhere-inbetween, and hopeful for many more camping trips to come.

Shelby and Trevor Pennington

While my family enjoyed the traditional camping experience, I am excited to explore some of North Carolina’s “glamping” options. Glamping is an elevated form of camping during which life’s luxuries—controlled temperatures and comfortable beds— are not sacrificed. Here are a few options in North Carolina, with reviews from locals.

Asheville Glamping

Asheville Glamping offers everything from a renovated 1955 camper with a hot tub to luxurious yurts and clear domes with a view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Nyema Daye of Raleigh says her husband surprised her with a trip to an Asheville Glamping dome.

“I was a Girl Scout years ago and quit after a camping trip because it just wasn’t for me,” she says. “I hadn’t been camping again until we discovered glamping. The dome was fantastic. Being ‘inside’ but still able to see the stars and enjoy the outdoors was amazing. For anyone thinking of trying it, I would say absolutely do it! The glamping sites have comfortable beds, a bathroom, air conditioning, seating areas and much more. Whether you’re an outdoorsy guru or a Girl Scout dropout like me, you’ll love it!”

a mini-library and cell phone lockbox to encourage disconnection.

Local realtor Caroline DeConto visited an Asheboro Getaway cabin on a rainy weekend last fall. “I really appreciate and enjoy cool and functional design, and their modern cabins are basically tiny homes.

They’re a blend of a rustic, natural and modern style, and come with a bunch of amenities that make the experience even more fun. Plus, the giant window above the bed not only provides an amazing view of the woods while you’re relaxing, but also makes for a super cool Instagram photo.”

RV Life

RVs fit the definition of “glamping” since they offer the comforts of a home on wheels. And thanks to their COVID-friendly accommodations, people from every demographic are buying them. According to recent RV Industry Association report, 50–80% of buyers in 2020 were first-time RV purchasers. That’s up from 25–35% in June 2019.

Learn More

Ashville Glamping—ashevilleglamping.com Getaway—getaway.house RV Industry Association—rvia.org

Mandy Gray

Getaway in Asheboro

Getaway CEO Jon Staff started his company in 2015. Getaway now offers services across the country. “The idea behind Getaway was to build tiny cabins, place them in nature and make them easily accessible to stressed-out people looking to escape and rejuvenate,” he says. The custom-built tiny cabins range in size from 140 to 200 square feet and come with everything a traveler might need for a simple escape to nature. They even provide

Mandy Gray of Raleigh travels around in the RV she owns with her husband. They appreciate having their own space and being able to bring pets along for the ride.

“We are avid fans of state [and national] parks, and having an RV allowed us to keep exploring some of these beautiful public spaces during the pandemic,” she says. “Some of our 2020 adventures included visiting Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) along the beautiful Skyline Drive, watching elk graze in Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina and Tennessee), hiking among the feral ponies at Grayson Highlands State Park (Virginia) and seeing iguanas at Biscayne National Park. (Florida). Our RV also allowed us to visit family members while still practicing social distancing. We camped in my parents’ driveway a couple of times and spent the weekend outdoors with them for some much-needed face-to-face time.”

Mandy Gray

G L A M P I T UP

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G E T M I D TOW N’ S L A T ES T NEW S D E L I V E RED TO Y O U R INBOX

S U B S CR I B E TODAY m i d t o w n mag.co m/ t a l k-of -t he- t r i angl e MAY/JUNE 2021

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In every issue, Midtown magazine tells the stories of incredible individuals, entrepreneurs and organizations who are helping to make Raleigh the best city in the South. We can’t begin to share all the stories that deserve to be told, so once a year we invite our key business partners to participate in this special section—and to help you put a face with the name of their business, practice or nonprofit organization.

Welcome to our annual FACES of Raleigh, a portfolio of inspiring leaders and community influencers who want to personally introduce themselves to you. Take a minute to get acquainted. Better yet, stop in and tell them you saw their face in Midtown.

Special thanks to our Midtown photographers for making this project a possibility: Jared Caldwell, Joshua B. Manning, MASH Photography, Brian Mullins and Doug Pitts.

Some businesses provided their own photography. A special thanks as well to Joe Reale and Maryam Teimouri.

iStock/ SIphotography

TABLE OF CONTENTS 76

The Face of BEST DENTAL EXPERIENCE – Renaissance Dental Center

92

The Face of COMMUNITY BANKING – North State Bank

78

The Face of CUSTOM PLANTATION SHUTTERS – Southern Accent Shutters and Blinds

93

The Face of COSMETIC DENTISTRY AND TMJ – Lane & Associates Family Dentistry

80

The Face of GROUNDBREAKING CHANGES IN REAL ESTATE – eXp Realty

94

The Face of ENHANCEMENTS AND SKINCARE – R&R Spa

82

The Face of NO. 1 BESTSELLING NEIGHBORHOOD IN THE TRIANGLE – Flowers Plantation

95

The Face of ENHANCING THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VERSION OF YOU – New Life Aesthetics

84

The Face of ADAPTABILITY AND COLLABORATION – Ravenscroft

85

The Face of ANTI-AGING MEDICINE – Regenesis MD

86

The Face of ARTISTRY IN CUSTOMHOME INTERIORS AND DESIGN – Furnish

87

The Face of AVEDA VON KEKEL SALON – Von Kekel Aveda Lifestyle Salon Spa

88

The Face of AWARD-WINNING PROFESSIONAL HOME CLEANING SERVICES – Go 2 Girls

89

The Face of BEAUTIFUL SKIN – The MedSpa at Raleigh Plastic Surgery Center

90

The Face of BLOWOUTS – Drybar

91

The Face of CHANGING LIFE, FAMILY, COMMUNITY – Carolina Brain Center

115 The Face of EXCELLENCE IN PLASTIC SURGERY – Zenn Plastic Surgery 116 The Face of FAMILY LAW – Gailor Hunt Davis Taylor & Gibbs

123 The Face of INVISALIGN ORTHODONTICS – Gladwell Orthodontics 124 The Face of LUXURY HOME BUILDING – Rufty Homes 125 The Face of MEDICAL AESTHETICS – Avail Aesthetics 126 The Face of OPTIMAL LIVING FOR ACTIVE ADULTS – The Cambridge at Brier Creek 127 The Face of RALEIGH’S INNOVATIVE TECH EXPERTS – Cii Technology Solutions

117 The Face of FEMALE PLASTIC SURGERY – 128 The Face of REAL ESTATE LEADERS IN THE LUXURY HOME MARKET – Blue Water Spa Plastic Surgery Partners Luxury Home Marketing Group 118 The Face of FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE – 129 The Face of SLEEP HEALTH – Carolina Total Wellness Parkway SleepHealth Centers 119 The Face of THE GATORBUG 130 The Face of SPECIALLY PERSONALIZED BOUTIQUES – The Gatorbug EXERCISE – The Exercise Coach 120 The Face of GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY THROUGH REAL ESTATE – 131 The Face of TRUST WITH YOUR PETS – Peak City Puppy Cindy Poole/Berkshire Hathaway 132 The Face of TRUTH DRESSED IN 121 The Face of GYNECOMASTIA STORY – Truth Meet Story CORRECTION SURGERY – Blue Water Spa Plastic Surgery Partners

122 The Face of HOME FURNISHINGS AND INTERIOR DESIGN – The Design Haüs

133 The Face of TURNING LIVES AROUND – One-Eighty Counseling

134 The Face of WHAT’S FOR DINNER – Tastefully Served

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THE FACE OF

BEST DENTAL EXPERIENCE RENAISSANCE DENTAL CENTER

DR. ANNA ABERNETHY DR. ANITA WELLS DR. JILL SONNER Drs. Abernethy, Sonner and Wells pride themselves on delivering comfortable, personalized care.

They strive to exceed expectations and build long-term relationships with their patients. Renaissance Dental Center’s customized approach to dental care ensures an enjoyable— even luxurious—experience. And with more than 30 years of combined experience, they have become the area’s leading resource for progressive technologies in dental care, including CEREC technology, 3D scanning for implant-guided placement, Invisalign treatments and full-mouth rehabilitations.

Whether you are seeking general dentistry, cosmetic smile enhancements or restorative dental care, Drs. Abernethy, Sonner and Wells will work to define a treatment plan perfect for your specialized needs.

3803 Computer Drive | Raleigh | 919.786.6766 | renaissancedentalcenter.com

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C USTOM PLANTATION SHUTTERS SOUTHERN ACCENT SHUTTERS AND BLINDS

RUSS AND MOLLY ALLRED, OWNERS For Triangle residents in-the-know, Southern Accent Shutters and Blinds, a local manufacturer of custom plantation shutters, is no secret. Now in its 23rd year, the company has built and installed plantation shutters in practically every neighborhood and subdivision in the Triangle. Molly, Russ and their crew cut no corners when producing these room‑changing products, which are made with the finest finishes available, a lifetime warranty and truly green production and materials.

Southern Accent Shutters and Blinds also offers U.S.–made blinds, shades, motorization and more to make your home a showplace. See for yourself by touring the factory today.

5684 Wilson’s Mills Road | Clayton | 919.934.4050 | southernaccentshutters.com

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GROUNDBREAKING CHANGES IN REAL ESTATE eXp REALTY Meet the top faces of eXp Realty—from mega teams to individual top producers. We are officially the No. 1 office and No. 2 firm in the Triangle. The key factor that makes our brokerage and all of us successful is that we utilize cutting-edge technology with global bandwidth to service our clients while we nurture our agents with ample training. Our brokerage is able to ascend together rather than compete with one another, because when one succeeds, we all succeed.

TINA CAUL caulgroup.com 919.263.7653

SHARON EVANS & KELLY DEBROSSE triangleexperts.com 919.271.3399 and 919.805.0069

PHILLIP DEMUTH demuthrealtygroup.com 919.521.8927

MARTI HAMPTON martihampton.com 919.601.7710

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CHANEL HART D’APRIX hartandolive.com 919.590.5906

LINDA NUXOLL lindanuxoll.com 919.696.5854

AMY SHAIR amyshair.com 919.818.5001

MEREDITH KISNER & MARY ANN MEAGHER mandmteamrealty.com 919.434.6819 and 919.619.3048

JON PUGEDA & CASSIDY BAKER keredagrouprealty.com 919.645.8074 and 919.464.1807

APRIL STEPHENS aprilstephens.com 919.651.HOME

BRITTNEY LEE brittneyco.com 919.600.4823

LISA QUIN lisaquin.com 919.559.1788

JASON WALTERS waltersteam.com 252.360.1130

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THE NO. 1 SELLING COMMUNITY OF THE TRIANGLE FLOWERS PLANTATION Flowers Plantation is proud to be the No. 1 selling community in the Triangle. With more than 400 sales for each of the past two years, homebuyers are quickly discovering what used to be considered the “hidden treasure” of Johnston County.

What brings them home to Flowers Plantation? Could it be the 20-plus miles of walking trails and sidewalks? How about the many different styles and price ranges of homes that are offered—including active adult? The on-site shopping and dining offerings are a definite draw, as residents can drive their golf carts to two grocery stores, Petco, CVS, restaurants, medical and dentist offices, and many more options. The East Triangle YMCA is located right in the midst of this 3,000-acre community offering indoor/outdoor pools, gym facilities and programs for all ages. Flowers Plantation will also be the home of the next Thales Academy, a prestigious private school. All of these amenities and conveniences are offered with no city taxes!

500 NW Flowers Parkway | Clayton | 919.553.1984, extension 1 | flowersplantation.com

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ADAPTABILITY AND COLLABORATION RAVENSCROFT

Throughout the pandemic, we’ve all confronted challenges, changes and choices. At Ravenscroft, we’ve been proud to witness our community’s adaptability and collaboration. Leaning on the leadership competencies of Lead From Here, our one-of-a-kind educational framework, Ravens have adapted, taking hybrid learning in stride, and now—whether they attend school in person or virtually—they’re taking teamwork to new levels.

Even when they’re wearing masks, our Ravens are the face of adaptability and collaboration. Through the depth and breadth of our academic, athletic, fine arts, extracurricular and co-curricular programming, students explore new areas of interest and learn to Lead From Here.

7409 Falls of Neuse Road | Raleigh | 919.847.0900 | ravenscroft.org

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ANTI-AGING MEDICINE REGENESIS MD After practicing integrative medicine for more than 15 years, Dr. Bhavna Vaidya fulfilled her dream of opening a unique practice that fuses top-of-the-line anti-aging medicine with aesthetics.

Regenesis MD takes care of your mind, body and beauty. We offer services that include everything from nutritional IVs, hormone replacement and weight management, to sexual health, lasers and injectables. Dr. Vaidya feels that medicine and aesthetics should never be disjointed. Each person should be treated as a whole. That is the mantra of Regenesis MD. 8020 Creedmoor Road | Raleigh | 919.322.2844 | regenesismd.com

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ARTISTRY IN CUSTOM HOME INTERIORS AND DESIGN FURNISH

MICHELLE HARDY As soon as you walk into Furnish, you will know you’ve found some place special—a place with home furnishings as unique and multifaceted as you are. Whether you’re looking for living, bedroom, dining, office or entertainment furnishings, you will see the quality and artistry in each piece we carry.

“At Furnish, clients walk side-by-side with in-house designers to determine their needs,” owner Michelle Hardy explains. “We take great pride in the experience we’ve created and are differentiated not only by the quality of our furniture, but also by the experience of our designers, our immense options and our commitment to customer service.”

8724 Glenwood Avenue | Raleigh | 919.670.4400 | furnishnc.com

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RALEIGH THE FACE OF

AVEDA VON KEKEL SALON VON KEKEL AVEDA LIFESTYLE SALON AND SPA

SHAWN KEKEL AND PAUL SHULTZ Growing together. After 23 years, we are fortunate to have wonderful, loyal guests and a talented, resilient team, which sustained us through the challenges of 2020. We are grateful to be able to continue to build and grow the Von Kekel brand with a bold, new experience in our future salon location at The Fenton in Cary—coming in 2022—where we will join neighbors like Scott Crawford’s Crawford Brothers and Bailey’s Fine Jewelry. Von Kekel Aveda Lifestyle Salon and Spa was founded in 1998 by Shawn Kekel. In 2002, partner Paul Shultz joined the team to continue Shawn’s vision of a welcoming, talented team offering unparalleled services to guests.

4209 Lassiter Mill Road #114 | Raleigh 919.782.0808 2230 Walnut Street | Cary 919.859.0888 vonkekelsalonspa.com

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AWARD-WINNING PROFESSIONAL HOME CLEANING SERVICES GO 2 GIRLS CRYSTAL HAMM, PRESIDENT With a passion to make a difference, Go 2 Girls strives to go above and beyond by providing exceptional service with each and every client. Our award-winning team is professionally trained, background-checked, and fully insured and bonded. Clients throughout Wake County enjoy having the same trusted Go 2 Girl for each cleaning, as well as peace of mind with a satisfaction guarantee.

Cleaning services include recurring maintenance, one-time cleans, move-in/outs, spring/deep cleans, special occasion cleans, and in-home laundry. If you are looking for an exceptional, locally owned and operated cleaning service for your home, please contact us for a free estimate.

Serving most of Wake County | 919.909.8093 | go-2-girls.com 88 | midtownmag.com

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BEAUTIFUL SKIN THE MEDSPA AT RALEIGH PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER Let the staff at The MedSpa help you achieve beautiful skin. Your experience at The MedSpa is built around You. Your goals.

Your results. With a combined experience of over 35 years in the aesthetic arena, The MedSpa is one of Raleigh’s top-rated medical spas because we focus on results designed to work for you. Realistic solutions, proven success. We offer state of the art medical esthetics, laser treatments and integrated skincare for your face and body. Our knowledgeable and professional staff is committed to all your facial and body concerns. We listen, we educate, we enhance all of your attributes and we help you pursue your best self in a way that makes you feel and look beautiful. Discover The MedSpa. Discover You. 1112 Dresser Court | Raleigh | 919.333.4418 | themedsparaleigh.com

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BLOWOUTS DRYBAR SARAH WOODSON, OWNER I can personally attest to the confidence boost a fresh blowout gives you. Before I opened my first Drybar blowout franchise, I was a customer seeking a little pampering. I was impressed with the skills of the stylists, atmosphere, customer service and overall experience. That experience led me to become a Drybar franchise partner and open a location in Waverly Place in Cary. Since then, I have also opened a second blowout franchise at Midtown East in Raleigh.

Drybar is a blowout bar dedicated to making women feel confident and happy. Upon entering the shop, you will be greeted and offered a beverage. You will then have a consultation with your stylist to review your desired style prior to your wash and blow dry. We also do updos and braids. With two local shops and a wide range of hours, Drybar can take care of all of your styling needs.

Drybar Raleigh at Midtown East | 1111 Mercantile Drive, Suite 100 | Raleigh | 919.670.1072 | drybarshops.com Drybar Cary at Waverly Place | 302 Colonades Way, Suite 206 | Cary | 919.238.7264 | drybarshops.com

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CHANGING LIFE, FAMILY, COMMUNITY

FACES OF

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CAROLINA BRAIN CENTER

Carolina Brain Center is a center for human optimization offering a variety of functional neurological and functional medicine treatments.

These include hyperbaric oxygen therapy, photobiomodulation, visual and vestibular rehabilitation, and diet and lifestyle coaching.

Getting help with concussions, childhood developmental disorders, autoimmune diseases, chronic pain and general wellness requires an individual approach. Twenty-two years of working with helping patients achieve their goals has taught Dr. Darcy Dane that a physician needs to take both a bird’s eye view and a laser focused view of brain and body health. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Dr. Dane, Doc and Ollie.

6404 Falls of Neuse Road #201 | Raleigh | 919.703.0207 | carolinabraincenter.com

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NORTH STATE BANK

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COMMUNITY BANKING NORTH STATE BANK You’ve probably heard the expression, “through thick and thin.” It describes someone who stands by you. Has your back.

In the good times and the times you’d prefer to fast-forward through.

North State Bank is a through-thick-and-thin company. We cheer with our customers through the wins and help them find strategies to persevere through the challenges. Whether you are looking for a personal or business financial partner, you’ll find what you need at North State Bank.

North State Bank Market Presidents: Dean Gooden (North Hills), June Sadowski (Wake Forest), Casey Atwater (West Raleigh), Kevin Payne (Garner), Jonathan Norwood (North Raleigh), Sharon Moe (Downtown Raleigh) Personal & Business Banking | Mortgage | SBA Lending 4720 The Circle at North Hills | Raleigh | 919.855.9925 | Member FDIC | Equal Housing Lender | NMLS# 411971

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COSMETIC DENTISTRY AND TMJ LANE & ASSOCIATES FAMILY DENTISTRY

MICHAEL DESROSIERS, DDS, LVIF Meet Dr. Mike DesRosiers, a cosmetic dentist for Lane & Associates Family Dentistry, who also specializes in temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ) treatment. “Boosting your smile can truly boost your life” says Dr. DesRosiers.

While practicing for the largest dental practice in North Carolina, he has a special passion for his patients and his craft.

With an extensive fellowship training for TMJ at the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies (LVI), Dr. DesRosiers continues to learn, train and volunteer, as he truly enjoys working to help people look and feel their very best.

700 Exposition Place, Suite 151 | Raleigh | 919.676.5555 | lanedds.com

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ENHANCEMENTS AND SKINCARE R&R SPA Rubee Matos is the curator of “Bad & Saved Skin,” a skincare line and lifestyle company. She is also the owner of R&R Spa in Raleigh. This private spa boutique offers noninvasive body and facial contouring enhancements. With over five years of testing on all skin types, Matos formulated a regimen for her customers and they raved about how amazing their skin felt. During the pandemic, Rubee gave birth to her daughter, “Heavenlee Grace,” and while her spa was closed, she formulated skincare products made with organic, gluten-free and vegan ingredients. Her autobiography is coming out in 2021. Follow her on Instagram @rubeematos.

7486 Creedmoor Road, Suite 208 | Raleigh | 919.307.7661 | rrspanc.com

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ENHANCING THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VERSION OF YOU NEW LIFE AESTHETICS MEREDITH HARRIS, NURSE PRACTITIONER AND OWNER New Life Aesthetics provides a unique, intimate and customized experience for each guest, focusing on comprehensive anti‑aging solutions. The company was founded in 2014 by owner and nurse practitioner Meredith Harris. As a leading injection specialist, Meredith is committed to educating, empowering and enhancing the most beautiful version of each guest. She has spent the past two decades caring for women and is regarded and sought after for her warmth, honesty, integrity and eye for detail. She has dually dedicated her career to the education of her peers and colleagues, serving as a highly sought-after national trainer, consultant, speaker and key opinion leader. Customized treatments offered at New Life Aesthetics include wrinkle relaxers, soft tissue fillers, laser- and light-based skin rejuvenation, PDO threads, feminine rejuvenation, skin tightening and body contouring.

5816 Creedmoor Road #103B | Raleigh | 919.521.8282 | newlifeaesthetics.com

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HISTORY

MASH Photography

MUSIC

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY'S FRESH CORN SALAD WITH GRILLED SHRIMP (RECIPE ON PAGE 102)

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D E PA R T M E N T S M U S I C

second wi nd S

even years ago, Rod Abernethy went back to his roots. After a decades-long career as a composer for video games—including awardwinning scores for “Dead Space” and “The Hobbit”—Abernethy stepped out of the studio and back onto the stage.

In February, he released his second album of acoustic guitar– driven folk and Americana, “Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore,” to early acclaim from the likes of American Songwriter and The Wall Street Journal. In a sense, the album’s success is a new milestone in a career that has been gestating for more than four decades. “I never, in my heart, left the acoustic guitar,” Abernethy says.

Having performed in bands through the late-1970s and into the 1980s—first with the popular rock band Arrogance, then with the Genesis-styled progressive rock band Glass Moon and polished power-pop act Rod Dash—Abernethy seemed poised for a lasting career as a performer. Then he went on “Star Search,” which aired from 1983 to 1995 and again in 2003–04.

“I kind of did that competition as a dare,” Abernethy remembers. “I auditioned, and I got in—it was great.

But I lost that day. When we got off the stage, the stage manager said, ‘You do realize this was a vocal competition, and you just did a 30-second instrumental break. That’s probably why you lost.’”

Soon after, Abernethy met with producer Paul Rothchild, who was 98 | midtownmag.com

known for his work with The Doors and Janis Joplin, among others.

That’s when Rothchild leveled with the up-and-coming musician. “I went up to his house and he said, ‘Rod, I really love you and I love your music, but you just lost in front of millions of people worldwide. There’s no record company in the world that’s going to sign you now.’” And, for a while, that was that.

GAMING NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Abernethy returned home to North Carolina and took a job managing a recording studio, where he eventually turned his attention to producing scores for the growing video game industry. “Video games were a great thing for me when I got into it around 2000,” Abernethy says. “That was at a time when game companies were looking for orchestral scores for their games. They wanted game scores to sound like film. At the time, they couldn’t pay the big-budget studio fee and pay orchestras, but they were looking for that sound. I had a really good studio rig with MIDI string libraries, and I was able to manipulate the orchestra and make it sound pretty good.”

From there, Abernethy spent the next 20 years making music in the studio, covering a wide range of styles from the upbeat accompaniment of children’s games to the “heavy-metal flamenco” of “Wheelman” or the “Celtic action orchestra” of “The Hobbit.”

“There were times when I felt like I needed to concentrate on one style and try to get known for that style,” he says. “But that never really happened. I kept getting games in different styles.”

And as rewarding as meeting his clients’ creative challenges could be, it couldn’t compare to writing and playing on his own terms—and performing in front of receptive audiences. “I spent 15 or 20 years in a room with a couple of TV monitors and racks of equipment every day,” he says. “Once in a while I would go meet a client on the West Coast or in New York, but most of my work was

in a room by myself. Now—until the pandemic—I was going out and playing for people.”

A REINVENTED RESURGENCE When Abernethy released “The Man I’m Supposed to Be” in 2018— produced by his old Arrogance bandmate Don Dixon—it was his first solo release since 1975. He hasn’t slowed down since. In 2019, he won American Songwriter’s Bob Dylan Song Contest, and earlier this year was named the overall grand prize winner of the 2021 International Acoustic Music Awards.

With “Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore,” Abernethy has given his songs a more spartan treatment— just his voice and guitar, accented with an occasional electric guitar, cello or harmonica. With the guidance of producer Neilson Hubbard, Abernethy crafted an album of stories gained over a year of playing for and speaking with people all over the country.

Where “The Man I’m Supposed To Be” was “waiting to get out of me for 10 years,” Abernethy says, “Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore” is much more of its moment. That storytelling approach and innate currency seem to have resonated with listeners so far.

“Things just started happening in a great way, as kind of an affirmation that I made the right decision to go back to acoustic guitar,” he says. “It’s really what I love to do. To be in my 60s and be able to go back to the stage is just a dream come true.”

All those years ago, when he was chasing the rock ’n’ roll dream, Abernethy was searching for what so many other creative people have sought: freedom. Now, in the latest chapter of a storied career, he’s feeling it once again. “When I started playing and writing again, I was my own client. I was my own boss,” he says. “I felt freedom again to do what I want to do.”

Rod Abernethy makes a resurgent return with ‘Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore’

BY BRYAN C. REED PHOTO BY BRUCE DEBOER

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CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY CHEF MATT WIVELL

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Cape Fear Seafood Company WILMINGTON-BASED RESTAURANT EXPANDS OFFERINGS AND LOCATIONS

BY ELLIOT ACOSTA

PHOTOS BY MASH PHOTOGRAPHY

W

ilmington is a city defined by its picturesque waterfront views, quick access to serene beaches, historic battleship and teen dramas like “One Tree Hill” (2003–2012) and “Dawson’s Creek” (1998–2003). But when the conversation switches to dining options that define the aptly named Port City, one thing comes to mind—seafood.

In 2008, Evan Trawick, a native of nearby Burgaw, opened a restaurant that would take advantage of all the fresh fish the city had to offer: Cape Fear Seafood Company. Eventually the restaurant expanded to three locations. With its newfound reach, Cape Fear Seafood Company wasn’t just winning over the locals, but visitors from outside of the city—many of whom were from Raleigh. Recognizing the opportunity North Carolina’s capital city possessed, the restaurant tapped two longtime employees, Eddie Elliott and Matt Wivel, to be franchise owners of the Raleigh expansion.

Elliot started with Cape Fear Seafood Company as a bartender.

He ultimately became area manager before his move to the restaurant’s expansion in the Oak City. Co-owner Matt Wivel, originally hired as a chef for the restaurant, rose to general manager of Cape Fear Seafood Company’s Leland location, where he would interact with Raleigh residents who had made the two-hour drive just to dine there.

Habitat for Humanity, First Tee of the Triangle and the Trawick Pediatric Cardiology Research Fund—the last two of which Cape Fear Seafood Company has shared a long-lasting relationship.

As it has been for many restaurants, the past year has been difficult for Cape Fear Seafood Company while it dealt with the grim realities of a global pandemic. Elliott recalls having to cut staff. “Matt and I worked alone for a few weeks, doing everything from cooking, taking orders and doing the dishes,” he says.

Through hard work and perseverance, Cape Fear Seafood Company was not only able to bring back its staff, but start looking toward the future as well. “We slowly got busier in April 2020 and began bringing our staff back,” Elliott says. “Ultimately, we just kept working and figured everything out as we went along. We’re grateful to be open and expanding through it all.”

MORE THAN CALABASH

Coastal Carolina is known for its calabash-style seafood, and Cape Fear Seafood Company is well-versed in this lightly breaded, crispy and fried way of serving it. Whether it’s shrimp, flounder or oyster, the restaurant’s calabash-style entrees are some of its most popular.

But seafood at Cape Fear Seafood Company doesn’t all end up in the fryer. Since fresh seafood is delivered to the restaurant’s Raleigh location every three to four days, the menu often features dishes like fresh corn salad with grilled shrimp. Further evidence of the restaurant’s versatility and culinary skills can be seen via its pastas, jambalaya, saltimbocca and tacos. The dish that has become a flagship entrée for Cape Fear Seafood Company, however, is the shrimp and grits.

The restaurant's non-aquatic dishes have generated some buzz as well. “For many years, I heard dozens of diners tell me that we had the best filet in town,” Elliott says. Cape Fear Seafood Company’s steaks are hand-cut and can be served with the added decadence of gorgonzola butter, crab butter or demi glaze.

CARING FOR THE COMMUNITY

Cape Fear Seafood Company is committed to serving the community and has established the tradition of hosting a fundraiser for a local charity when it opens a new location. Half of the first few days’ proceeds from the Raleigh restaurant opening were donated to organizations like Make-A-Wish Foundation,

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY, NOW OPEN IN VILLAGE DISTRICT In October the team announced plans to extend Cape Fear Seafood Restaurant’s brand into the Village District, formerly known as Cameron Village. “We felt like Cameron Village was the perfect fit for our company and the brand overall,” he says.

“Growth was always the plan, and when the opportunity presented itself in Cameron, we decided to take the risk on faith that the pandemic couldn’t last forever.”

And there could be more growth in store. Elliott and Wivel initially committed to opening at least one more location.

“Should we have the continued success we’ve experienced here in Raleigh, we believe there is room for a few more locations in Wake and neighboring counties,” Elliott says. Fall 2022 is their target date, so stay tuned!

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Ingredients

5 ears of corn, shucked (sweet corn works well) ½ cup of small-diced red onion (1 small onion) 3 tablespoons of cider vinegar

FRESH CORN SALAD WITH GRILLED SHRIMP

3 tablespoons of good olive oil ½ teaspoon of kosher salt ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper ½ cup of julienned fresh basil leaves 6–10 grape tomatoes, halved 24 large shrimp

Directions

In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the corn for about 3 minutes until the starchiness is just gone. Drain the corn and put it in an ice bath to stop the cooking and set the color.

When the corn is cool, cut the kernels off the cob, cutting close to the cob.

Toss the kernels in a large bowl with the red onions, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Just before you serve the salad, toss in the fresh basil and grape tomatoes for added flavor and color. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve cold or at room temperature.

Grill the shrimp and season any way you wish, then place them on the salad just before you serve it. (Serves 3–4.)

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B

arwell Road Park in southeast Raleigh is getting a new play feature, and the Carolina Panthers are pitching in to make it special. The Barwell Road Park Challenge Course was an add-on to the park’s existing plan to build a new playground. Last August, the Panthers made a $150,000 contribution to the City of Raleigh during the early stages of project construction. That’s when the playground vision took a twist that doubled the project’s size. Along with traditional playground structures like slides, platforms and swings, the space will include athletic challenges that take things up a notch.

And if you’re worried that your family is about to outgrow their playground days, the challenge course might keep you coming back for years to come. “A lot of our playgrounds are officially set up to accommodate [participants] from toddlers up to 12 years old,” says Dean Perry, capital project manager with the City of Raleigh.

“The challenge course opens up the park as a really cool place if you’re in middle school up to high school—and even for adults who are doing athletic training or just want a workout outside of an indoor gym. It really opens up the park to a whole new demographic.”

MORE THAN MONKEY BARS

So what can you expect at the Barwell Road Park Challenge Course? It’s still child’s play, but you’ll find a whole lot more than monkey bars. For starters, there will be a two-lane 40-yard sprint track that features an electronic eye timer at the start and finish lines. Plans call for 10–12 other pieces in the

BARWELL ROAD PARK CHALLENGE COURSE

Th e Ca ro l i n a Pa n t h e r s h e l p f u n d c o n s t r u c t i o n of an NFL-like obstacle course BY KURT DUSTERBERG configuration, including a traverse wall (a horizontal climbing wall), floating boards and other obstacles designed to develop speed, agility, balance and coordination.

The Carolina Panthers have developed similar park spaces in the Charlotte area, promoting the playgrounds as a cross between the NFL Scouting Combine and the NBC TV show “American Ninja Warrior.”

The challenge course ties in with the NFL’s longtime Play 60 program, a youth health initiative encouraging children to get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. The color scheme will highlight the team’s Panther blue. “You will see the Panthers logo in a few places throughout the challenge course,” Perry says. “And we’ve coordinated our color scheme between the playground equipment with our slides and swings to give it a nice, cohesive look throughout.”

The timing of the Panthers’ challenge course proposal proved to be critical. “It was a good time to fully integrate a big, spaceconsuming feature like this,” Perry says. “I know there were a few other sites considered in Raleigh. We were in a good place in our design process with our playground project, and it was a really great opportunity to take an important feature and provide an integrated area, instead of going to an existing park and trying to shoehorn this in.”

But if you’re mostly focused on wearing out a preschooler before nap time, there’s no need to worry that your little one will be overrun by energetic teens—the traditional

youth playground structures are separate from the challenge course. And when kids are ready to make the move to something a bit more taxing, the challenge course makes a good transition.

“There are a lot of other things that are closer to the ground and a lot easier to navigate,” Perry says. “Moving in and out of these features, there’s a lot of opportunity for a variety of ages and abilities. Maybe if you’re a little too young to climb all the way to the top, you can keep going to something else.”

The challenge course will be built on artificial turf, making it durable for years to come. The Panthers will cover the cost of the structures, produced by playground equipment manufacturer GameTime. The City of Raleigh is funding the cost of earth moving and site work, such as turf installation, course equipment and electrical connections. Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources maintenance teams will manage daily upkeep.

Winter rain slowed construction of the Barwell Road Park Challenge Course, but Perry hopes the playground and challenge course will be ready for climbers, jumpers and sprinters in May. The 54-acre park was developed in 2006 in coordination with Barwell Road Elementary School at 5857 Barwell Park Drive. It includes a 30,000-square-foot community center, half-mile walking loop and multipurpose field. Learn more at raleighnc.gov/places/ barwell-road-park.

Cunningham Recreation

City of Raleigh

D E PA R T M E N T S S P O R T S

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D E PA R T M E N T S D O W N T O W N

the

LONG LEAF HOTEL & LOUNGE

BY SAMANTHA GRATTON

PHOTOS BY BRIAN MULLINS

EXPERIENCE A REINVENTED RALEIGH GEM

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A

s you drive into downtown Raleigh headed south, you may have noticed the neon pink and green lights that read, “Long Live Longleaf.”

What was once an iconic Travelodge and later a Days Inn, is now restored as The Longleaf Hotel—a modernistic, mid-century lodge nestled near the heart of downtown. The hotel’s 56 rooms and Longleaf Lounge provide an inviting atmosphere, and the location offers convenient walkability to downtown. It’s a piece of Raleigh you don’t want to miss.

THE HISTORY

From the young pine trees growing outside to the “Happy Little Trees” cocktail in the Longleaf Lounge, guests will notice the remarkable level of thought that has gone into every detail of The Longleaf Hotel.

Creators went bigger and broader than Raleigh’s famed reputation as the City of Oaks by naming the lodge after North Carolina’s state tree: the pine. The name also gives a nod to a line in “The Old North State,” a poem written by Leonora Monteiro Martin, which starts, “Here’s to the land of the longleaf pine ...”

In early 2019, Loden Properties acquired and began renovating the hotel, which had previously fallen into disrepair. As construction continued throughout the year, existing elements—like the stucco walls—were removed, but stunning mid-century breeze blocks were preserved and now feature prominently on the front of the building.

“We were really interested in breathing new life into this historic mid-century structure,” says Christine McDonald, creative director of Loden Properties. “There’s a trend throughout the U.S.—mostly the Southwest—where people would take these motor inns and breathe new life into them.”

THE ROOMS

The Longleaf Hotel’s 56 rooms retained their original size; however, the majority of the motel-style exterior doors were removed long ago. While cozy, the rooms encompass elements that create a luxurious feel. “We wanted to keep it essentially the same form that it was and pay homage to that era, but make it really comfortable and clean and modern,” McDonald says. Instead of a retro vibe, the hotel’s designers curated a look that rings both nostalgic and refreshed.

Inside the rooms you’ll find Kingsdown mattresses adorned with soft, wool Pendleton blankets and hand-dyed throw pillows from North Carolina’s own Rise & Ramble. Each room is stocked with local treats from Videri Chocolate Factory, Carolina Kettle Chips, Big Spoon Roasters and Slingshot Coffee Co. In the mornings, purchase bakery items from Union Special and a cup of ambition from Counter Culture Coffee in the lounge.

THE LOUNGE

What may become one of its biggest draws for out-of-town guests and Raleighites alike is The Longleaf Hotel’s lounge and patio. Completely gutted from its former state then redesigned, the lounge features a bar that serves mid-century-inspired cocktails, wine, local beer and snacks on its custom-made wood and terrazzo bar top. A velvet banquette lines the wall and accommodates a number of tables that are separated from the front seating area by a shelf displaying custom art and unique pieces.

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throughout the pendant lights in the lounge, carpet design running down the hall and custom wallpaper in the bathrooms.

Just a few months after The Longleaf Hotel opened, the pandemic disrupted its plans and momentum. The hotel initially closed for a few months, but it reopened in June 2020.

The indoor bar and lounge have been closed to keep staff and guests safe. The large patio, however, serves as a socially distanced and inviting meeting space to toast a drink or cozy up by one of the outdoor fire pits or patio heaters. Popular snacks on the lounge’s Southern-inspired menu include the deviled egg plate and port wine cheese ball.

Hungrier guests can experience (ish) Delicatessen (the parentheses are part of the name), a new restaurant concept opening this spring a few blocks away from the hotel that combines Jewish American South with Italian deli items.

Originally planned to open onsite at the hotel, (ish) Delicatessen will feature a creative menu and occupy the front of the Person Street Pharmacy at 702 North Person Street.

“Everyone’s idea of a deli is slightly different,” says Matt Fern, The Longleaf Hotel’s current hospitality director who will also run (ish) Delicatessen. Therefore, the menu will offer a variety of classic favorites and new Jewish-, Italian- and Southern-inspired sandwiches. Once the delicatessen opens, The Longleaf Lounge will expand its bar snacks menu.

Fern considers the deli, along with The Longleaf Hotel, two of Raleigh’s “little gems.” Whether you are ready for a staycation, need to recommend a cool place for a friend to stay or just want to hang out on a new downtown patio, The Longleaf Hotel is definitely a gem worth checking out.

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D E PA R T M E N T S C O M M U N I T Y

NORTH HILLS INNOVATION DISTRICT

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RISING UP Mixed-use developments bring

cutting-edge businesses to Raleigh

BY ELIZABETH BRIGNAC

M

NORTH HILLS INNOVATION DISTRICT

This new area of Midtown will extend east along the beltline from North Hills and provide easy access to public transit, bicyclers and drivers. The campus interior will emphasize walkability. Green areas are central to the plan, which includes 4 acres of open, public-use space, with much of it centering on Big Branch Creek. Buildings will connect with each other and the city’s greenway system through bridges and trails. People will be able to attend concerts, relax in the biergarten and enjoy outdoor dining. Office workers will have access to outdoor workspaces and powered outdoor conference rooms.

Kane Realty Corporation

Kane Realty Corporation

ixed-use developments are on the rise in Raleigh. Increasingly, here and across the nation, urban planners are combining stores, restaurants, work environments, outdoor areas and living quarters into developments that build up rather than out—and bring public and private aspects of our lives together in new ways. The North Hills Innovation District, Smoky Hollow and Bloc[83] are three mixed-use environments currently under development in Raleigh.

City Council member Patrick Buffkin sees these kinds of development as essential to managing Raleigh’s continuing growth for several reasons. “There are lots of studies and data that show that the kind of 1950s, automobile-centric model of growth is terrible for the environment … in any measure, it’s a bad environmental plan,” he says. Also, because tall buildings pay high taxes per acre, these projects bring in money for the city, he adds, which can be used to support robust public transit designed to move people easily between urban centers.

Josie Reeves, director of design for Kane Realty, the company responsible for designing the North Hills Innovation District and Smoky Hollow, supports the idea that linking multipurpose urban hubs together with strong public transit is a healthy way to approach city planning. “Great cities are polycentric,” she says. “That means that we can create and enjoy urban lifestyles in multiple locations within Raleigh.” She adds that once there is enough support for building transportation initiatives to connect these nodes, “that’s truly when we will come into our own as a city.”

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Kane Realty Corporatoin

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Kane Realty Corporatoin

Heritage Properties/JDavis Architects

TOWER TWO AT BLOC[83]

Not surprisingly, there will be a great emphasis on innovation, since that is part of the district’s name. While offices will be designed to attract technology and life science companies, other original approaches to entrepreneurship are also welcome. Retail will include micro-retailers in addition to traditional stores. These are business owners who never expected to be able to afford brick-and-mortar retail space.

Likewise, Big Branch Food Hall will offer space to businesses exploring new approaches to food and drink, as well as to traditional types of food hall offerings.

SMOKY HOLLOW

Across Capitol Boulevard from William Peace University you’ll find Smoky Hollow, where two apartment complexes have already opened and brought in Publix as the first full-service grocery store in downtown Raleigh. Kane Realty is currently in the process of adding office and retail space, and developing an inviting urban plaza. “Nobody wants to build walled gardens or private islands,” Reeves says. “It is the public use that gives projects like Smoky Hollow and North Hills Innovation District their pulse.”

Smoky Hollow emphasizes integration into the downtown Raleigh experience.

Retail spaces invite the public to come together with office workers and apartment dwellers in Smoky Hollow’s central

courtyard, which will include outdoor seating, public art and other attractions that designers hope, will make people want to spend time there. Developers plan to integrate Smoky Hollow into public events such as IBMA Bluegrass Live! and Artsplosure as well.

The area features bike paths, is near a public transit hub and is within easy walking distance to much of downtown, making it easy for residents, workers and other members of the public to enjoy the development. “[People] want to be able to hit the sidewalks and access all kinds of urban choices, and that has been a backbone of our thinking,” Reeves says.

TOWER TWO AT BLOC[83]

Tower Two, part of the Bloc[83] development on Glenwood Avenue, incorporates retail space, apartments, offices, a boutique hotel and fitness areas centered around the city’s largest urban courtyard—the kinds of amenities that attract businesses to Raleigh.

When financial management advisory company Envestnet executives decided to expand their East Coast office into a national business center, they chose their Raleigh office as the seat of that expansion since it offers access to quality employees and affordable means for those employees to live well. Envestnet’s choice to locate its

expanded offices in Tower Two was based on similar logic: The building offers high-quality amenities and opportunities to network, as well as cutting-edge technology.

Sounmi Campbell, human resources business partner at Envestnet, likes the fact that employees would be close to different businesses and restaurants, and that Tower Two offers specific amenities. “It’s really important for us to make sure our employees are comfortable,” Campbell says.

“As we grow our business, and as we become more cutting edge … we like for our locations to match our philosophy.”

Envestnet’s priorities in selecting Tower Two support Reeves’ argument that developments like the North Hills Innovation District, Smoky Hollow and Tower Two elevate Raleigh’s attractiveness to progressive companies. Reeves believes Raleigh “has some of the best talent in the nation in the fields of technology and life sciences, and we as a city and as a region should have many thoughtful ways to attract and keep these forward-thinking companies.” This “coming together of these vertical projects into something bigger into this district—a new way to gather, a new way to collaborate,” she says, will speak to those who desire an urban lifestyle with amenities all around them.

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D E PA R T M E N T S H I S T O R Y

Historic

Yates Mill County Park

WAKE’S

‘ TENACIOUS LADY’

BY ANITA B. STONE

B&W PHOTOS BY MARK STONE

I

magine an unspoiled environment where a rush of water crashes over a dam, plummeting under the belly of a waterwheel. Add to that an ecosystem with natural habitats (where plant and animal life flourish), a wetlands boardwalk and miles of hiking trails—plus interpretive center exhibits depicting the history of technology and agriculture in central North Carolina, offered by the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences.

Historic Yates Mill, sometimes referred to as ‘the tenacious lady’ of Wake County, is the county's last standing and operating

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COLOR PHOTO COURTESY OF NCPIX.COM

water-powered gristmill. This circa 1756 structure has survived hurricanes, fires, floods and Civil War skirmishes. It now stands as a testament of perseverance, social and economic enterprise, and as frontier country. It’s where farmers brought grain to be converted into flour, and where North Carolinians brought wool or cotton to be carded or ginned to make clothing. They also brought logs to saw into lumber for building family shelters, some of which exist today in Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood neighborhood.

AS THE WHEEL CHURNS

The history of Yates Mill’s development begins with Samuel Pearson, an 18th century builder from New Bern, and intertwines with families named Penny, Lee and, of course, Yates. The property originally covered 381 acres, with roads radiating in four directions to bring in business from surrounding counties. The mill became a commerce center for the agricultural community, where items were traded and deals were made.

Back then, millponds were also popular locations for news and gossip. So it’s no

YATES MILL 1992

visitnc.com

wonder that parties and social gatherings, picnicking, fishing and boating activities were all commonplace across the pond.

In the mid-1700s, Samuel Pearson was granted a parcel of 380 acres by the Earl of Granville, a lord proprietor of the colony of North Carolina. Pearson built a water-powered gristmill and dam on a section of this parcel well before Wake County was formed in 1771 from Cumberland, Johnston and Orange counties. The property, including the mill, passed to Simon Pearson upon his father’s death, but bankruptcy forced him to sell it so he could pay his taxes.

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YATES GREENE FAMILY HOUSE

In 1819, banker William Boylan purchased the property at an auction for $300. He widened the mill to two-and-a-half stories with a finished attic. In 1853 he sold it to three partners: John Primrose, Thomas Briggs (founder of Briggs Hardware in Raleigh) and James Penny. James Dodd later bought Primrose’s shares.

Penny, Dodd and Briggs sold the mill and 94 acres surrounding it to Penny’s son-in-law, Phares Yates, during the height of the Civil War in 1863. Yates’ granddaughter, Jane Deese Greene, said during an interview years ago that “everybody knew everybody” at the mill. “We had such fun. Families enjoyed Sunday picnics, boating and a lot of fishing,” she recalls. “Sometimes we’d go to the family house where Susie and Sarah Penny always made cookies.”

Greene says Penny’s involvement with the alleged murder of a “Mr. Franklin” may have prompted the sale of the mill to her grandfather. According to legend, Franklin was a northern sympathizer whom Penny reportedly killed for not paying a $700 mill debt. Franklin’s widow is rumored to have told Union troops that her husband’s death was a result of his political beliefs. Allegedly, the troops set fire to the mill’s entrance porch in an attempt to burn down the structure.

Charred wooden beams underneath the mill stand as possible evidence of the burning, and court records show that in 1866 Penny was tried for and acquitted of Franklin’s murder.

After Yates’ death in 1902 the mill passed to his son, Robert E. Lee (R.E.L.) Yates, a math professor at North Carolina State University.

Upon his passing in 1937, he left it to his wife, Minnie Johns Yates. Ten years later, Minnie and her son, Wilbur, sold the mill to Trojan Sales Company, a subsidiary of A.E. Finley & Associates, and the mill ground its final bag of meal in 1953. He developed the property into a recreational area and the pond became known as Lake Trojan. Finley later transferred the property title to another subsidiary, North Carolina Equipment Company, and built a retreat lodge there for use by his family and employees.

The mill had been operational from 1898 through 1953 under John Lea. His daughter, 114 | midtownmag.com

JD LEA IN THE MILL

Mary Lea Simkins, said in an interview* years ago, “Yates was so peaceful. In the cool fall, I’d walk in the woods and the leaves would appear like a mirror on the pond. In winter, the trees were fluffy with snow and the smell of corn just traveled everywhere.”

She paused. “What I miss most is all of it. It’s a place no one should forget and everyone should visit.”

In 1963, North Carolina State University purchased the mill site as part of a 1,000-acre research and ecological preserve, on which it created farms and demonstration fields. NCSU remains custodian of the land to this day.

IN PURSUIT OF A PARK

Over time, the mill had fallen into disrepair.

Boards were crumbling from the walls and floor, the roof had begun to sag and, overhead, beams and timers creaked and groaned. Yates Mill Associates, a nonprofit group spearheaded by Mabel J. Dorsey, formed in 1989 to preserve and restore the property. “It just needed somebody to push it,” said Dorsey, then president of the Wake Historical Society. “We’ve got it going.”

Dorsey kept her word. More than half a million dollars in donations given by many individuals and organizations funded a restoration plan. Support and involvement came from people like Simpkins; J.D. “Dick” Thompson, who was associated with the N.C. Equipment Co. that was owned by A.E. Finley; and John Vandenbergh, a NCSU professor emeritus in biology who served as the organization’s president.

Part of their plan was to create a county park centered on the historic mill and the property’s cultural and agricultural heritage.

But Hurricane Fran roared through Wake County in 1996, blowing torrential rains across the millpond and bursting its 250-year-old stone dam. The pond needed re-dredging before Fran hit, but now the dam would need to be replaced as well, which involved retrieving the original stones from downstream and returning everything to pre-hurricane condition. Money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources and other

JANE DEESE

organizations helped cover the cost of repairs.

A historic structure analysis revealed four generations of authentic equipment inside the mill, including the second waterwheel to generate wheat milling and two pairs of millstones made of native granite and buhrstone. The second floor accommodated a genuine “hopper boy”— an automated flour-sifting machine invented in the late 1700s by one of America’s most wellknown milling engineers and inventors, Oliver Evans.

NCSU leased 157 acres to Wake County in 2001, and the county bought another 16 acres upstream to develop hiking trails as part of an agreement with the North Carolina Department of Agriculture. Construction of the park’s visitor center began in summer 2003 and was completed in 2006. Visitors can now take tours from March through November and watch corn-grinding demonstrations the third week of each of those months. Just across the street at Howling Cow Creamery on NCSU’s dairy farm, visitors can purchase 2 pounds of either yellow or white Yates Mill cornmeal in a traditional cloth bag for $5.

Previous owners and workers would be proud to see that Yates Mill continues to serve its surrounding community—only now, as the center of an educational and nature park, with roads still radiating in four directions and people continuing to visit from surrounding counties. Thanks to Yates Mill Associates, NCSU, Wake County, the North Carolina state government and the many people who frequent the historic park, that seems unlikely to change.

Learn more at yatesmill.org and wakegov.com (search for “Yates Mill”). *The writer interviewed some of the sources in this article several years ago, but the statements are all taken from interviews she conducted. Also, some areas of the mill may be temporarily closed due to the pandemic, but that shouldn’t affect access to the trails or a good view of the mill.

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L UXURY HOME BUILDING RUFTY HOMES

JON RUFTY Rufty Homes is leading the evolution of luxury home building. We believe that fine craftsmanship demonstrates our shared love of quality and integrity.

Partnering with the Rufty Homes team results in a distinctive retreat for your family, away from the everyday commotion of society. A Rufty experience extends beyond exceptional quality and striking details. We offer a thoughtfully unique approach as a custom home builder, so you’ll have a home-building experience with a team specifically selected to bring your vision to reality.

When you’re ready to begin your own custom luxury home journey, the team at Rufty Homes is here.

5121 Kingdom Way, Suite 208 | Raleigh 919.460.8550 | ruftyhomes.com

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MEDICAL AESTHETICS AVAIL AESTHETICS Avail Aesthetics is an award-winning Med Spa founded by Dr. Nathan Davis and Stephen Rhodes, who set out with a mission to provide the very best in medical aesthetics while ensuring that every client feels welcomed and accepted.

Avail Aesthetics has been voted “Best Med Spa” for its unrivaled selection of services and for its upbeat, judgment‑free attitude. “We also have the newest and best devices available, yielding better results in fewer sessions with less downtime,” explains co-founder and CEO Stephen Rhodes. “Regardless of your goals, we have exactly what you need to look and feel like the best version of yourself.”

251 Keisler Drive, Suite 201 | Cary | 919.322.5440 | availaesthetics.com

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OPTIMAL LIVING FOR ACTIVE ADULTS THE CAMBRIDGE AT BRIER CREEK With more than 30 years in the senior housing industry, Kendall Oliver has an insider’s perspective on what it takes to design, build, staff, and market a community for older adults. His in-depth operational knowledge comes from firsthand experience. He started his career as a licensed nursing home administrator when he was 21 years old. In the year 2000, he opened his first assisted living facility, Cambridge Hills, in Roxboro. After Cambridge Hills’ success, Kendall wanted to extend his vision and operational experience into independent living services for active older adults. In 2008, Kendall and his partners launched the Cambridge Village Optimal Living brand. He now has communities in Wilmington and Apex, as well as a new community in Raleigh. The Cambridge at Brier Creek is opening in the spring of 2022.

7780 Brier Creek Parkway, Suite 140 | Raleigh | 919.797.1361 | cvsliving.com

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RALEIGH’S INNOVATIVE TECH EXPERTS Cii TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS INC.

RAY ALLEN AND CHRIS ALLEN Over the last 40 years, Cii Technology Solutions has worked to become a trusted name in the field of technology. Never satisfied with the status quo, Cii continues to push the envelope in both service and innovation to bring clients the best custom solutions available. Cii has developed and sold eight products during its tenure. The firm also houses world-class cloud solutions specialists to aid with your infrastructure needs.

4700 Six Forks Road, Suite 300 | Raleigh | 919.676.8300 | ciinc.com

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REAL ESTATE LEADERS IN THE LUXURY HOME MARKET LUXURY HOME MARKETING GROUP

FRONT ROW: LINDSAY TAYLOR JACKSON, Keller Williams | SHERI HAGERTY, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty MARGARET STRUBLE, Compass | SHAWN BRITT, Realty World Triangle Living | LESLIE YOUNG, Coldwell Banker HPW Global Luxury | MICHELLE ROBERTS, Keller Williams Legacy | KIMBERLY CONROY, Coldwell Banker HPW Global Luxury LINDA TREVOR, Remax United; BACK ROW: JILL REKUC, Olde Raleigh Real Estate | DEBBIE VAN HORN, Compass | MOLLIE OWEN, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty | KATHY BEACHAM, Coldwell Banker HPW Global Luxury | ANN MATTESON, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty | GRETCHEN COLEY, Compass | LINDA CRAFT, Linda Craft & Team Meet the Luxury Home Marketing Group. Our members are local experts and respected leaders in the real estate industry.

Members employ powerful marketing strategies and unsurpassed knowledge of the Triangle real estate market to successfully guide you in your home selling or buying experience. Give your home global exposure to our network of real estate professionals across multiple highly respected firms and through our powerful print, social media and direct mail marketing platforms. Get to know the Luxury Home Marketing Group at luxuryhomemarketinggroup.com. luxuryhomemarketinggroup.com 128 | midtownmag.com

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SLEEP HEALTH

PARKWAY SLEEPHEALTH CENTER

If you experience problems with daytime sleepiness or have trouble falling asleep at night, you’re not alone.

Sleep disorders affect 35–40% of the U.S. population, and are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.

Parkway SleepHealth Center, founded in 2004, is locally owned and operated by Brian June, his daughter Meghan, and his son-in-law Brandon Giegling. As proud members of our community, we care about Cary families because we are a Cary family. We offer a physician office, sleep studies, and CPAP machines and equipment. Call us today to start your journey toward a good night’s sleep.

130 Preston Executive Drive | Cary | 919.462.8081 | parkwaysleep.com

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SCIENTIFICALLY PERSONALIZED EXERCISE THE EXERCISE COACH

DAN AND ELIZABETH GIROUARD, OWNERS New to Raleigh, The Exercise Coach is a “smart fitness studio” that relies on artificial intelligence and robotics instead of dumbbells and treadmills. Outfitted with proprietary computerized ‘Exerbotics’ machines instead of traditional equipment, The Exercise Coach’s personalized programs are optimized for efficiency, requiring only two 20-minute workouts per week. The machines adjust each workout to a person’s strengths and weaknesses in real time, thereby helping them get the most out of their workouts and avoid injury. Paired with the guidance of certified coaches, the studio offers nutrition guidance, and blends personalized strength and interval cardio training in each session.

3739 National Drive, Suite 110 | Raleigh | 919.670.2267 | exercisecoach.com

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TRUST WITH YOUR PETS PEAK CITY PUPPY & DOG WALKERS

Now more than ever, trust is earned, not app’ed. The Team at Peak City Puppy & Dog Walkers has been setting the standard in professional dog walking and pet sitting services since 2008, and has served over 300 active dog and cat clients in Apex, Cary, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, RTP, New Hill and Raleigh. Peak City Puppy & Dog Walkers has also earned more than 120 five‑star ratings on Google and boasts a track record of personal success stories.

“The team at Peak City Puppy has been taking care of our dog since he was a puppy four years ago. They do a fabulous job of keeping him walked and are very reliable. They are easy to reach (a must with our crazy schedules), and very responsive to our requests.” — Apex client Peak City Puppy & Dog Walkers | Serving Western Wake, RTP and Raleigh 919-FOR-PETS (or 919.367.7387) | peakcitypuppy.com

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TRUTH MEET STORY LLC

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TRUTH DRESSED IN STORY TRUTH MEET STORY LLC ALEXUS RHONE A fable: Truth was walking through the village. Whenever anyone saw Truth, they ran—mothers covered their children’s eyes, old men scoffed, young boys pointed and laughed. This happened every day, until Truth, tired of the rejection, disappeared into the forest. Then Truth meets Story. Together they return to the village. Dressed in Story, people are now fighting to listen. What changed? The approach—no one likes a naked Truth.

Truth Meet Story, LLC, is a live-events, story-curating and coaching practice, expanding empathy one story at a time.

TMS was founded by artistic theologian Alexus Rhone.

310 S. Harrington Street | Raleigh | 919.307.1420 | alexusrhone.com

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TURNING LIVES AROUND ONE 80 COUNSELING SARAH R. COATES, LCMHC FOUNDER & PRESIDENT One 80 Counseling launched its Raleigh location in Midtown last May. Opening near the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging at first, considering many supply chains were disrupted. Once the new office upfit at 5510 Midtown was complete and furnished, the team quickly met the need of many in the Raleigh area who were seeking to manage their mental health during a pandemic.

The team at One80 Counseling in Raleigh offers in-person and telehealth appointments for children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. Our diverse team supports the company’s mission to be “a place where anyone of any walk of life can find a therapist to meet their mental health needs.”

One 80 Counseling accepts most major insurance plans, so call today for an appointment with the best therapists in the Triangle.

5510 Six Forks Road, Suite 125 | Raleigh | 919.861.4111 | one-eightycounseling.com

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WHAT’S FOR DINNER TASTEFULLY SERVED As a chef, Meredith Atunez knows that good food takes time. But as a mom, she also knows that competing priorities, busy schedules and everyday hiccups can make finding that time feel impossible.

Six years ago, while managing her own work and home life, Meredith realized that busy families needed better options to balance everyday life and everyday eating. So, she created Tastefully Served, a chef-prepared meal delivery service that focuses on flavorful, wholesome, ready-made dishes—elevated to a chef’s standard and delivered right to your door.

Tastefully Served is a simple way to give your family something great. The company’s weekly menus provide a variety of fresh, seasonal offerings so you can eat well without having to sacrifice your values or your time.

Serving homes and offices in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Apex, RTP and Wake Forest 2161 S. Wilmington Street | Raleigh | 919.760.5134 | tastefully-served.com 134 | midtownmag.com

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MIDTOWN MAGAZINE

DINE &DRAFT AFRICAN NAFKOT ETHIOPIAN RESTAURANT 2109-146 Avent Ferry Road 919.664.8151 nafkotethiopianrestaurant.com

AMERICAN 41HUNDRED 4100 Main at North Hills Street 919.278.1478 41hundredrestaurant.com B.GOOD 555 Fayetteville Street 919.803.3233 201 Park at North Hills 919.916.5410 bgood.com BA-DA WINGS 2161 Avent Ferry Road 919.832.3902 badawings.com BERKELEY CAFE 217 W. Martin Street 919.828.9190 facebook.com/berkeleyraleigh BLOOMSBURY BISTRO 509-101 W. Whitaker Mill Road 919.834.9011 bloomsburybistro.com CAPITAL CLUB 16 16 W. Martin Street 919.747.9345 CapitalClub16.com CARROLL’S KITCHEN 19 E. Martin Street 919.670.3622 carrollskitchen.org CLOCKWORK 519 W. North Street 919.307.3215 clockworkraleigh.com CRAWFORD AND SON 618 N. Person Street 919.307.4647 crawfordandsonrestaurant.com The Daily Fare 402 Oberlin Road 919.916.5151 dailyfareraleigh.com

A FOODIE GUIDE TO RALEIGH

HAYES BARTON CAFE 2000 Fairview Road 919.856.8551 imaginarystudioonline. com/hayes

SECOND EMPIRE RESTAURANT AND TAVERN 330 Hillsborough Street 919.829.3663 second-empire.com

CO 101 Park at North Hills Street 919.258.2070 eatatco.com

IRIS RESTAURANT 2110 Blue Ridge Road 919.664.6838 ncartmuseum.org/visit/dining

STANBURY 938 N. Blount Street 919.977.4321 stanburyraleigh.com

DAVID’S DUMPLING & NOODLE BAR 1900 Hillsborough Street 919.239.4536 ddandnb.com

THE STATION 701 N. Person Street 919.977.1567 stationraleigh.com

FIVE STAR RESTAURANT 511 W. Hargett Street 919.833.3311 fivestarraleigh.com

STIR 4242 Six Forks Road #100 984.200.8614 stirraleigh.com

HAKO JAPANESE RESTAURANT 2603-155 Glenwood Avenue 919.235.0589 hakosushinc.com

TASTE 1912 Bernard Street 919.948.7815 thetastebernard.com

LEMONGRASS THAI RESTAURANT 8320 Litchford Road #142 919.954.0377 lemongrassthairestaurant.net

VILLAGE GRILL 8470 Honeycutt Road 919.890.5340 villagegrillraleigh.com

NEO-ASIA 6602 Glenwood Avenue 919.783.8383 neoasiaraleigh.com

VITA VITE 313 W. Hargett Street 919.803.3156 200 Park at North Hills Street 919.322.0649 vitaviteraleigh.com

NI ASIAN KITCHEN 8817 Six Forks Road 919.916.5106 niasiankitchen.com

KINGS DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

141 Park at North Hills Street 919.600.5700 kings-de.com LONERIDER AT FIVE POINTS 1626 Glenwood Avenue 919.322.2434 loneriderbeer.com LYNWOOD GRILL & BREWING CONCERN 4821 Grove Barton Road 919.785.0043 lynnwoodgrill.com METRO DINER 6325 Falls of Neuse Road #73 919.578.9053 metrodiner.com MIDTOWN GRILLE 4421 Six Forks Road 919.782.9463 themidtowngrille.com NORTH RIDGE PUB 6010 Falls of Neuse Road 919.790.9125 northridgepub.com THE OAK 4035 Lake Boone Trail 919.787.9100 jmrkitchens.com/oak OAK CITY MEATBALL SHOPPE 180 E. Davie Street 919.714.9014 oakcitymeatball.com PLAYERS RETREAT 105 Oberlin Road 919.755.9589 playersretreat.net

WINSTON’S GRILLE 6401 Falls of Neuse Road 919.790.0700 winstonsgrille.com YARD HOUSE 4208 Six Forks Road 919.881.2590 yardhouse.com ZEST CAFE & HOME ART 8831 Six Forks Road 919.848.4792 zestcafehomeart.com

ASIAN

ORCHID JAPANESE RESTAURANT 7432 Creedmoor Road 919.890.5345 orchidjapanesebuffet.com PEARL CHINESE RESTAURANT 3215 Avent Ferry Road 919.233.8776 pearlchinesenc.com RED DRAGON CHINESE RESTAURANT 2513 Fairview Road 919.782.1102 raleighreddragon.com RED PEPPER ASIAN 4121-109 New Bern Avenue 919.594.1006 redpepper-nc.com

BIDA MANDA 222 S. Blount Street 919.829.9999 bidamanda.com

SEOUL GARDEN 4701 Atlantic Avenue 919.850.9984 seoulgardennc.com

BREWERY BHAVANA 218 S. Blount Street 919.829.9998 brewerybhavana.com

SHABASHABU 3080 Wake Forest Road 919.501.7755 shabashabu.net

DEATH & TAXES 105 W. Hargett Street 984.242.0218 ac-restaurants.com/death-taxes

THE POINT AT GLENWOOD RESTAURANT & BAR 1626 Glenwood Avenue 919.755.1007 thepointatglenwood.com

EDWARDS MILL BAR & GRILL 3201 Edwards Mill Road 919.783.5447 edwardsmillbarandgrill.com

THE RALEIGH TIMES BAR 14 E. Hargett Street 919.833.0999 raleightimesbar.com

BUL BOX 4421 Six Forks Road #116A 984.200.3654 bul-box.com

SONO 319 Fayetteville Street 919.521.5328 sonoraleigh.com

FINE FOLK 213 Fayetteville Street (located in Foundation’s basement) finefolkraleigh.com

THE ROCKFORD 320½ Glenwood Avenue 919.821.9020 therockfordrestaurant.com

CHAMPA THAI & SUSHI 8521 Brier Creek Parkway 919.806.0078 champathaisushi.com

SPRING ROLLS BISTRO & SUSHI BAR 5433 Wade Park Boulevard 919.803.1118 springrollsrestaurant.com

GLENWOOD GRILL 2603 Glenwood Avenue #15 919.782.3102 glenwoodgrill.com

ROSEWATER KITCHEN & BAR 110 Park at North Hills Street 919.424.7886 rosewaterraleigh.com

CHOPSTIX 5607 Creedmoor Road 919.781.6268 chopstix.com

SUSHI BLUES CAFE 301 Glenwood Avenue 919.664.8061 sushibluescafe.com

Midtown advertisers have been highlighted. Some restaurants do not have websites and must be contacted by phone.

A more comprehensive list of restaurants can be found at midtownmag.com. Please call or check websites for takeout options.

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SUSHI O BISTRO + SUSHI BAR 222 Glenwood Avenue 919.838.8868 sushioraleighnc.com

MON MACARON 111 Seaboard Avenue #118 984.200.1387 mommacaron.us

THAIPHOON BISTRO 301 Glenwood Avenue #190 919.720.4034 thaiphoonbistroraleigh.com

PREMIER CAKES 6617 Falls of Neuse Road #105 919.703.0095 premier-cakes.com

WARAJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 5910 Duraleigh Road 919.783.1883 warajijapaneserestaurant.com

SLICE PIE COMPANY 1400 South Saunders Street 919.349.8499 slicepiecompany.com

BAKERIES & DESSERT CAFES ANISETTE 209 Bickett Boulevard 919.758.3565 sweetanisette.com ANNELORE’S GERMAN BAKERY 1249 Farmers Market Drive 919.294.8040 anneloresbakery.com BITTERSWEET 16 E. Martin Street 919.977.3829 bittersweetraleigh.com BOULTED BREAD 614 W. South Street 919.999.3984 boultedbread.com CRUMBL COOKIES 2920 Sherman Oak Place Suite 100 919.249.1333 crumblcookies.com DUCK DONUTS 8323 Creedmoor Road 919.847.3800 duckdonuts.com

EDIBLE ART BAKERY & DESSERT CAFE

4351-115 The Circle at North Hills 919.856.0604 edibleartnc.com ESCAZÜ ARTISAN CHOCOLATES 936 N. Blount Street 919.832.3433 escazuchocolates.com GOODBERRY’S FROZEN CUSTARD Multiple Raleigh locations goodberrys.com

VIDERI CHOCOLATE FACTORY 327 W. Davie Street 919.755.5053 viderichocolatefactory.com YELLOW DOG BREAD CO. 219 E. Franklin Street 984.232.0291 yellowdogbread.com

BARBECUE BIG AL’S BBQ & CATERING 2920 Forestville Road 919.217.0653 bigalsbbqandcatering.com CLYDE COOPER’S BARBEQUE 327 S. Wilmington Street 919.832.7614 clydecoopersbbq.com OLE TIME BARBECUE 6309 Hillsborough Street 919.859.2544 oletimebarbecue.com THE PIT AUTHENTIC BARBECUE 328 W. Davie Street 919.890.4500 thepit-raleigh.com SAM JONES BBQ 502 W. Lenoir Street 984.206.2555 samjonesbbq.com

BREAKFAST/SPECIALTY ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE 160 Park at North Hills Street 919.307.8195 anotherbrokenegg.com

BULL & BEAR BREW

Available locally or shop online at: The Butcher’s Market 5045 Falls of Neuse Road Quintessentials 4209 Lassiter Mill Road #119 bullandbrew.com

JUBALA COFFEE 8450 Honeycutt Road 919.758.8330 2100 Hillsborough Street 919.792.1767 jubalacoffee.com THE MORNING TIMES 10 E. Hargett Street 919.836.1204 morningtimes-raleigh.com NEW WORLD CAFE 4112 Pleasant Valley Road 919.786.0091 newworldcafes.com Purr Cup Cafe 210 Prospect Avenue 919.322.4003 purrcupcafe.com UNION SPECIAL BREAD 2409 Crabtree Boulevard #104 984.200.3094 unionspecialbread.com

BURGERS & HOT DOGS BAD DADDY’S BURGER BAR

111 Seaboard Avenue 919.747.9163 9402 Falls of the Neuse Road Suite 103 919.233.5880 baddaddysburgerbar.com CHAR-GRILL Four Raleigh locations chargrillusa.com CHOW 8311 Creedmoor Road 919.841.4995 chowraleigh.com MOJOE’S BURGER JOINT 620 Glenwood Avenue 919.832.6799 mojoesburgerjoint.com THE ROAST GRILL 7 S. West Street 919.832.8292 roastgrill.com SNOOPY’S HOT DOGS Multiple Raleigh locations snoopys.com

CAFÉS BENELUX COFFEE 402 Oberlin Road 919.900.8294 beneluxcoffee.com

GREAT HARVEST BREAD COMPANY 8801-119 Lead Mine Road 919.845.8122 greatharvest.com

BRIGS 8111 Creedmoor Road 919.870.0994 brigs.com

THE DAILY PLANET CAFE 121 W. Jones Street 919.707.8060 thedailyplanetcafe.com

GROOVY DUCK BAKERY 3434 Edwards Mill Road 919.787.9233 groovyduckbakeryllc.com

CHA HOUSE TEA 3001 Hillsborough Street, Suite 108 919.594.1980 chahouseusa.com

KALE ME CRAZY 2018 Cameron Street 919.239.4660 kalemecrazy.net

HAYES BARTON CAFE 2000 Fairview Road 919.856.8551 hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com

CHEENI CHAIR + COFFEE + TIFFIN 227 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh 1603 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh cheeniraleigh.com

MANHATTAN CAFE 320 S. Wilmington Street 919.833.6105 manhattancafenc.com

LUCETTEGRACE 235 S. Salisbury Street 919.307.4950 lucettegrace.com

IDLE HOUR COFFEE ROASTERS 1818 Oberlin Road #103 984.200.1605 idlehourcoffee.com

THE PHARMACY CAFE 702 N. Person Street 919.832.6432 personstreetrx.com

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PINE STATE COFFEE Multiple locations in Raleigh pinestatecoffee.com SOLA COFFEE 7705 Lead Mine Road 919.803.8983 solacoffee.com SOSTA CAFE 130 E. Davie Street 919.833.1006 sostacafe.com SIR WALTER COFFEE 145 E. Davie Street 919.322.0019 sirwaltercoffee.com SUNFLOWER’S CAFE 8 W. Peace Street 919.833.4676 sunflowersraleigh.com UNCORKED RALEIGH 10511 Shadowlawn Drive Suite 111 984.200.5423 uncorkedraleigh.com

CATERING CATERING WORKS 2319 Laurelbrook Street 919.828.5932 cateringworks.com DONOVAN’S DISH Serving the Triangle 919.651.8309 donovansdish.com EMPIRE EATS CATERING 415 Royal Street 919.582.9470 empireeatscatering.com THE GARDEN ON MILLBROOK 2400 E. Millbrook Road 919.790.8900 thegardenonmillbrook.com ROCKY TOP CATERING 1705 E. Millbrook Road 919.850.2340 rockytopcatering.com SOUTHLAND BBQ CATERING 5000 Departure Drive 919.757.4972 southlandbbqcatering.com

TASTEFULLY SERVED

Serves Raleigh, Cary, Apex and RTP 919.760.5134 tastefully-served.com

DELIS/SANDWICHES BONGIORNO & SON 8450 Honeycutt Road bongiornoandson.com THE COMMUNITY DELI 901 Oberlin Road 919.896.6810 thecommunitydeli.com GROUCHO’S DELI 10 Horne Street 919.977.7747 grouchos.com LUNCH BOX DELI 2816 Trawick Road 919.872.7882

Midtown advertisers have been highlighted. Some restaurants do not have websites and must be contacted by phone.

A more comprehensive list of restaurants can be found at midtownmag.com. Please call or check websites for takeout options.

POPPYSEED MARKET 8801 Lead Mine Road 919.870.4997 poppyseedmkt.com

THE WILD COOK’S INDIAN GRILL 3212 Hillsborough Street 984.232.8530 thewildcooksgrill.com

VILLAGE DELI & GRILL Multiple Raleigh locations villagedeli.net

ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE 10410 Moncreiffe Road Suite 103 919.361.5370 zaykaraleigh.com

ECLECTIC 41HUNDRED 4100 Main at North Hills Street 919.278.1478 41hundredrestaurant.com

IRISH

ORO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 18 E. Martin Street 919.239.4010 ororaleigh.com

THE HIBERNIAN 311 Glenwood Avenue 919.833.2258 8021 Falls of Neuse Road 919.803.0290 hibernianpub.com

PLATES NEIGHBORHOOD KITCHEN 301 Glenwood Avenue 919.828.0018 plateskitchen.com

SAINTS & SCHOLARS IRISH PUB 909 Spring Forest Road 919.878.8828 saintsandscholarspub.com

FRENCH

ITALIAN

COQUETTE BRASSERIE 4531 The Circle at North Hills 919.789.0606 coquetteraleigh.com JOLIE 620 N. Person Street 919.803.7221 restaurantjolie.com ROYALE 200 E. Martin Street 919.977.3043 toasttab.com/royale/v3 SAINT JACQUES 6112 Falls of Neuse Road 919.862.2770 saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com SIMPLY CRÉPES 8470 Honeycutt Road 919.322.2327 simplycrepes.com

INDIAN AZITRA 8411 Brier Creek Parkway 919.484.3939 azitra.com GARLAND 14 W. Martin Street 919.833.6886 garlandraleigh.com KABAB AND CURRY 2412 Hillsborough Street 919.977.6974 kababcurryraleigh.com KADHAI THE INDIAN WOK 6260-112 Glenwood Avenue 919.785.2864 theindianexpresskadhai.com

AMEDEO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3905 Western Boulevard 919.851.0473 amedeosrestaurant.com ASSAGGIO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3501 W. Millbrook Road 919.785.2088 assaggios-nc.com BELLA MONICA 3121-103 Edwards Mill Road 919.881.9778 bellamonica.com BRUNO SEAFOOD & STEAKS 11211 Galleria Avenue 919.435.6640 brunoraleigh.com CAFE TIRAMISU 6008 Falls of Neuse Road 919.790.1006 cafetiramisu.net CAFFÉ LUNA 136 E. Hargett Street 919.832.6090 cafeluna.com CAPRI RESTAURANT 6325 Falls of Neuse Road 919.878.4424 caprirest.com CASA CARBONE RISTORANTE ITALIANO 6019 Glenwood Avenue 919.781.8750 casacarbone.com FARINA NEIGHBORHOOD ITALIAN 8450 Honeycutt Road 919.890.0143 farinaraleigh.com

ROYAL INDIA 3901 Capital Boulevard 919.981.0849 royalIndiannc.com

GRAVY 135 S. Wilmington Street 919.896.8513 gravyraleigh.com

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN CUISINE 6611 Falls of Neuse Road 919.848.2262 tajmahalindianraleigh.com

JIMMY V’S OSTERIA + BAR 420 Fayetteville Street 919.256.1451 jimmyvsraleigh.com

TASTE 1912 Bernard Street 919.948.7815 thetastebernard.com

MULINO ITALIAN KITCHEN & BAR 309 N. Dawson Street 919.838.8595 mulinoraleigh.com

Midtown advertisers have been highlighted. Some restaurants do not have websites and must be contacted by phone.

A more comprehensive list of restaurants can be found at midtownmag.com. Please call or check websites for takeout options.

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NINA’S RISTORANTE 8801 Lead Mine Road 919.845.1122 ninasrestaurant.com

SITTI 137 S. Wilmington Street 919.239.4070 sitti-raleigh.com

PICCOLA ITALIA 423 Woodburn Road 919.833.6888 piccolaitalianc.com

TAVERNA AGORA 326 Hillsborough Street 919.881.8333 tavernaagora.com

ROMA PIZZERIA & ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3805 Brentwood Road 919.876.2818

TAZA GRILL 6325 Falls of Neuse Road 919.872.7161 10940 Raven Ridge Road 919.845.7772 tazagrill.com

TUSCAN BLU 327 W. Davie Street 919.834.5707 tuscanblu.com VIC’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 331 Blake Street 919.829.7090 4035 Lake Boone Trail Suite 109 984.200.9292 vicsitalianrestaurant.com VIVACE 4209 Lassiter Mill Road Suite 115 919.787.7747 vivaceraleigh.com

MEDITERRANEAN/ MIDDLE EASTERN ALADDIN’S EATERY 8201 Brier Creek Parkway 919.806.5700 4209 Lassiter Mill Road 919.977.9025 aladdinseatery.com FRESH LEVANT BISTRO 8450 Honeycutt Road 984.200.3999 freshlevant.com JASMIN & OLIVZ MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO Multiple Raleigh locations jasminbistro.com MONA PITA MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 5260 Capital Boulevard 919.431.6500 monapita.com NEOMONDE 3817 Beryl Road 919.828.1628 neomonde.com NUR MEDITERRANEAN DELI & MARKET 2233 Avent Ferry Road 919.828.1523 THE OLIVE WAGON 8490 Honeycutt Road Suite 106 919.845.7266 theolivewagon.com OPA RALEIGH 411 W. Morgan Street 984.200.9440 oparaleigh.com

VIDRIO 500 Glenwood Avenue Suite 100 919.803.6033 vidrioraleigh.com

MEXICAN BAJA BURRITO 2109 Avent Ferry Road Suite 108 919.834.3431 bajaburrito.net CAFE CAPISTRANO 8471 Garvey Drive 919.872.1127 CANTINA 18 433 Daniels Street 919.835.9911 18restaurantgroup.com CENTRO 106 S. Wilmington Street 919.835.3593 centroraleigh.com CORTEZ 413 Glenwood Avenue 919.342.8227 cortezraleigh.com DOS TAQUITOS 6101 Glenwood Avenue 919.787.3373 dostaquitosraleigh.com DRIFTWOOD CANTINA 8460 Honeycutt Road #1112 919.977.8360 driftwoodraleigh.com EL DORADO 2811 Brentwood Road 919.872.8440 8111 Creedmoor Road 919.848.0788 eldoradomexicanrestaurant.com EL RODEO 329 Blount Street 919.828.0777 2404 Wake Forest Road 919.833.1460 elrodeonc.com

PETRA GRILL 6091 Capital Boulevard 984.200.2009

EL TAPATIO 4511 New Bern Avenue 919.255.9161 13200 New Falls of Neuse Suite 167 919.554.9676 eltapatiomexican.com

SASSOOL 9650 Strickland Road 919.847.2700 sassool.com

FIESTA MEXICANA 2839 Jones Franklin Road 919.859.1303 fiestamexicananc-cary.com

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GONZA TACOS Y TEQUILA 7713-39 Lead Mine Road 919.846.5478 2100 Hillsborough Street 919.268.8965 gonzatacosytequila.com GRINGO A GO GO 100 N. Person Street 919.977.1438 gringoraleigh.com JOSE AND SONS 4112 Pleasant Valley Road 919.571.1188 joseandsons.com LA CARRETA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1028 Oberlin Road 919.977.3271 lacarretaraleigh.com LA RANCHERITA 7420 Six Forks Road 919.844.6330 4325 Glenwood Avenue Suite 3000 919.785.1951 laranchnc.com LOS CUATES MEXICAN RESTAURANT 4524 Old Wake Forest Road 919.872.6012 facebook.com/loscuatesraleighnc LOS TRES MAGUEYES 10410 Moncreiffe Road 919.484.9258 THE ORIGINAL FLYING BURRITO 4800 Grove Barton Road 919.785.2734 originalflyingburrito.com SAN JOSE MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5811 Poyner Village Parkway 919.790.1919 sanjosepoyner.com

SALT & LIME CABO GRILL

6006 Falls of Neuse Road 919.872.2230 saltandlimecabo.com

TorcTorchy’s Tacos 1110 Mercantile Drive Building 6, Suite 120 torchystacos.com TORERO’S AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE 4721 Atlantic Avenue Suite 101 919.873.9116 torerosmexicanrestaurants.com

LILLY’S PIZZA 1813 Glenwood Avenue 919.833.0226 lillyspizza.com MOONLIGHT PIZZA COMPANY 615 W. Morgan Street 919.755.9133 moonlightpizza.com THE PIZZA TIMES 210 S. Wilmington Street 919.832.4411 raleightimespizza.com SALVIO’S PIZZERIA 6325 Falls of Neuse Road #69 919.981.5678 salviospizza.com STROMBOLI’S EXPRESS 3434 Edwards Mill Road 919.785.7075 2900 Spring Forest Road 919.876.4222 strombolisexpress.com TROPHY BREWING + PIZZA 827 W. Morgan Street 919.803.4849 trophybrewing.com YOUR PIE 4233 Corners Parkway, Suite 250 919.957.0077 yourpie.com

SEAFOOD 42ND STREET OYSTER BAR 508 W. Jones Street 919.831.2811 42ndstoysterbar.com CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY 832 Spring Forest Road 984.242.4600 2019 Clark Avenue in the Village District 984.242.4600 capefearseafoodcompany.com CAPTAIN STANLEY’S SEAFOOD 3333 S. Wilmington Street 919.779.7878 facebook.com/captainstanleys COUSIN’S MAINE LOBSTER 411 W. Morgan Street 919.867.6203 cousinsmainelobster.com

VIVA MEXICAN KITCHEN 4112 Pleasant Valley Road 919.571.1188 vivamexicankitchen.com

THE COWFISH SUSHI BURGER BAR 4208 Six Forks Road 919.784.0400 thecowfish.com

PIZZERIAS

MARGAUX’S RESTAURANT 8111 Creedmoor Road Suite 111 919.846.9846 margauxsrestaurant.com

CRISTO’S NY STYLE PIZZA 1302 E. Millbrook Road 919.872.6797 cristospizza.com DEMO’S PIZZERIA & DELI 222 Glenwood Avenue Suite 121 919.754.1050 demospizzeriadeli.com

MASON’S FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLLS 4121 Main at North Hills Street Suite 100 984.200.1845 masonslobster.com

DONATOS PIZZA 7860 Alexander Promenade Place 919.957.2880 donatos.com

SALTWATER SEAFOOD MARKET 4 Fenton Street 919.834.1813 saltwaterseafoodnc.com

Midtown advertisers have been highlighted. Some restaurants do not have websites and must be contacted by phone.

A more comprehensive list of restaurants can be found at midtownmag.com. Please call or check websites for takeout options.

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SOUTH AMERICAN

SOUTHERN

ALPACA PERUVIAN CHARCOAL CHICKEN 4614 Capital Boulevard 919.713.0000 8211 Brier Creek Parkway Suite 107 919.278.7724 alpacachicken.com

BEASLEY’S CHICKEN + HONEY 237 S. Wilmington Street 919.322.0127 ac-restaurants.com/beasleys

AREPA CULTURE NC

Food Truck (brick and mortar location coming soon to 6724 Glenwood Avenue) arepaculturenc.com BARCELONA WINE BAR 430 W. Martin Street 919.808.5400 barcelonawinebar.com GUASACA AREPA & SALSA GRILL 4025 Lake Boone Trail Suite 107 919.322.4928 2512 Hillsborough Street 919.210.6838 guasaca.com MAMI’S 2401 Wake Forest Road 919.834.8572 maminoras.com VINOS FINOS TAPAS AND WINE BAR 8450 Honeycutt Road Suite 110 919.747.9233 vinosfinosypicadas.com

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BIG ED’S RESTAURANT 220 Wolfe Street 919.836.9909 5009 Falls of Neuse Road 919.747.9533 bigedsnc.com FLYING BISCUIT CAFÉ 2016 Clark Avenue 919.833.6924 flyingbiscuit.com HUMBLE PIE 317 S. Harrington Street 919.829.9222 humblepierestaurant.com MANDOLIN 2519 Fairview Road 919.322.0365 mandolinraleigh.com THE MECCA RESTAURANT 13 E. Martin Street 919.832.5714 mecca-restaurant.com

NOFO @ THE PIG

2014 Fairview Road 919.821.1240 nofo.com POOLE’S DINER 426 S. McDowell Street 919.832.4477 ac-restaurants.com/pooles

RELISH CAFÉ & BAR 5625 Creedmoor Road 919.787.1855 relishraleigh.com THE REMEDY DINER 137 E. Hargett Street 919.835.3553 theremedydiner.com RYE BAR & SOUTHERN KITCHEN 500 Fayetteville Street 919.227.3370 ryeraleigh.com STATE FARMERS’ MARKET RESTAURANT 1240 Farmers Market Drive 919.755.1550 realbiscuits.com TUPELO HONEY 425 Oberlin Road 919.723.9353 tupelohoneycafe.com

STEAKHOUSES ANGUS BARN 9401 Glenwood Avenue 919.781.2444 angusbarn.com BRASA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE 8551 Brier Creek Parkway 919.544.3344 brasasteakhouse.com OAK STEAKHOUSE 417 W. Hargett Street 984.255.1818 oakraleigh.com

PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE & GRILLE 4509 Creedmoor Road 919.827.4158 perryssteakhouse.com

VINNIE’S STEAK HOUSE AND TAVERN 7440 Six Forks Road 919.847.7319 vinniessteakhouse.com

VEGETARIAN/VEGAN EARTH TO US 2893 Jones Franklin Road 919.809.8622 shopearthtous.com FICTION KITCHEN 428 S. Dawson Street 919.831.4177 thefictionkitchen.com GRABBAGREEN 4421 Six Forks Road #103 919.326.7799 grabbagreen.com HAPPY + HALE 200 Park Street at North Hills Suite 101 984.200.3802 happyandhale.com IRREGARDLESS CAFÉ 901 W. Morgan Street 919.833.8898 irregardless.com

Moore Square Market Downtown Raleigh Alliance

Every Sunday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m., May–October 200 S. Blount Street The Moore Square Market features local vendors with farm-fresh produce, meat, dairy, eggs, baked goods and artisanal goods. The market is open 11 a.m.–3 p.m. every Sunday, May–October. Local restaurants and shops will rotate week to week and offer both preorder and pickup options, as well as items available to purchase on-site.

June 3–6, June 10–13 2110 Blue Ridge Road The North Carolina Museum of Art’s popular Art in Bloom event will take place during not one, but two extended weekends this year: Thursday– Sunday, June 3–6; and Thursday–Sunday, June 10–13.

A perennial favorite among visitors, Art in Bloom displays the stunning creativity of floral designers who interpret works of art in the museum’s collection. This year’s event is presented by PNC. ncartmuseum.org

Always a Bridesmaid

June 4–20 107 Pullen Road In this hilarious comedy, four friends have sworn to keep the promise they made on the night of their senior prom: to be in each other’s weddings. Theatre in the Park’s “Always a Bridesmaid” is the lively tale of four loyal and determined women who definitely answer the question, “Just how far are you willing to go to keep a promise to a friend?”

downtownraleigh.org/farmers-market-1/moore-square-market

Beach Music: Making Waves in the Carolinas

Open through January 2022 5 E. Edenton Street Beach music is the defining sound of the Carolinas. Propelled

by African American rhythm and blues, boundary-crossing teens in the late 1950s and early 1960s created a culture and a signature dance for the musical genre—the shag. The North Carolina Museum of History’s newest exhibit, “Beach Music: Making Waves in the Carolinas,” shares not only the hits and dance moves, but also the fascinating stories behind the music. The gallery is rich in sound, alive with color and interactive for all ages.

theatreinthepark.com

Triangle Pop-Up Market at Boxyard RTP

ncmuseumofhistory.org

Pop-Up Raleigh

Pop-Up Raleigh

May 15–16, June 19–20 656 Maywood Avenue Pop-Up Raleigh is downtown Raleigh’s original monthly artisan market, offering vintage collectors and art lovers a place to shop and sip at Trophy Brewing & Taproom on Maywood Avenue. The brewery curates a diverse parade of food trucks for each market, complemented by its tasty signature beers.

Art in Bloom

Brittany Murdock

downtownraleigh.org/dra-programs/dine-out-downtown

BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

June 19, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

900 Park Offices Drive, Durham Join Triangle Pop-Up June 19 at Boxyard RTP to explore its highly curated selection of accessories, clothing, home goods, custom gifts and more by local artists and makers.

Central to the Research Triangle Park and surrounding areas, Boxyard RTP provides a platform for emerging and seasoned entrepreneurs in the food, hospitality, retail and event industry.

Enjoy live music while you eat, drink and shop.

Neginfotografy

Saturdays, 5–9 p.m., May–June Downtown Raleigh Enjoy dinner al fresco–style from your favorite downtown Raleigh restaurants as you listen to live music by local musicians. Streets will be closed and tables and chairs will be provided for safe, extended outdoor dining on Saturdays during May and June, 6–9 p.m.

EV EN T S Downtown Raleigh Alliance

Dine Out Downtown

trianglepopup.com

popupraleigh.com

Be sure to check the websites of the events listed here before you head out to ensure they are still taking place.

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M I DTOWN MI NGL ES AREPA CU LTURE NC OPENS BRICK AND MORTAR LOCATION Arepa Culture NC, a family–owned and operated establishment specializing in gourmet-style Venezuelan cuisine, expanded its

food truck business by opening a storefront at 6274 Glenwood Avenue #100 on March 12. Known especially for its arepa

(ah-reh-pah)—a gluten-free, white cornmeal bread that is grilled

Arepa Culture NC

Arepa Culture NC

BY ISABELLA HUA

and generously filled with a variety of ingredients—the restaurant offers a variety to choose from, including chicken with onions

and peppers, barbecue with pico de gallo, shredded beef with

sharp cheddar cheese, chicken salad with fresh avocado, and organic greens with pesto, tomato and fresh mozzarella. Check out the menu at arepaculturenc.com.

MIDTOWN WELCOMES NEW STREET BANNERS On March 16 at Kings Dining & Entertainment, Midtown Raleigh Alliance

announced its street banner contest winners: Kelly Schrader and Rich Gurnsey.

The theme for all entries was “Wish You Were Here.” Schrader’s winning banner heron, which he often sees peacefully wading through Midtown’s ponds and

grassy areas. Both winners were awarded a cash prize of $1,000. Check out the new banners when you are out and about.

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Isabella Hua

colorfully depicts the North Hills fountain, while Gurnsey’s features a great blue

NE W A R O U N D TO W N

BY CINDY HUNTLEY

thenowmassage.com/midtown-raleigh

Torchy’s Tacos

The NOW Massage, a popular L.A.–based boutique spa, opened a Midtown East location in April. The spa’s clean, modern design incorporates natural materials to create an airy, relaxing atmosphere. Start your service with a choice among three massage styles— energy balancing, sports-inspired or the spa’s signature Swedish massage—then add any “enhancements” you’d like for just $10 each.

Popular choices include scalp renewal, deep tissue and crystal healing. Memberships are also available.

1100 Mercantile Drive, Suite 120 512.535.6705

TEXAS-FAVORITE TORCHY’S TACOS ARRIVES IN RALEIGH Torchy’s Tacos, a beloved Austin, Texas taco spot, makes its North Carolina debut in early May in Midtown East. Known for innovative, scratch-made tacos, fresh margaritas and its award-winning Green Chile Queso, Torchy’s Tacos lives to serve “Damn Good” food. The restaurant is opening with safe dine-in, patio, takeout and delivery service.

1110 Mercantile Drive Building 6, Suite 120 919.439.1177

HI-TECH PERSONAL TRAINING STUDIO OPENS NEAR FIVE POINTS Local couple Dan and Elizabeth Girouard have opened The Exercise Coach, a small, appointment-based studio offering personalized, coach-led strength and cardio programs. Optimized for efficiency, the studio’s signature computerized strength equipment adapts to any age or fitness level and helps clients achieve the goals that matter most to them in just 20 minutes, two days per week.

3739 National Drive, Suite 110 919.670.2267

HIGHTIDE SALON BRINGS HAIR ARTISTRY TO DOWNTOWN Hightide Salon, which opened in March as a chair-rental salon in the Warehouse District, features some of the Triangle’s most talented hair artists. Services include cuts, color, balayage and extensions for all genders, looks and styles. The salon is a work of art in itself, designed by local designer Antoine Ponton.

Services are by appointment only.

309 W. Martin Street 919.516.9099 thehightidesalon.com

Heritage Properties/ JDavis Achitects

The Exercise Coach

torchystacos.com

exercisecoach.com/raleigh

Hightide Salon

The Now Massage

THE NOW MASSAGE—SELF-CARE IN MIDTOWN

ENVESTNET TO OCCUPY GLENWOOD SOUTH’S TOWER TWO AT BLOC[83] Envestnet, a leading provider of intelligent systems for wealth management and financial wellness, will occupy the top three floors of Tower Two at Bloc[83], making it the marquee tenant of the new high-rise slated to open in late 2021. The Chicago-based company plans to move a majority of its product and engineering efforts, as well as future design work, to the Raleigh office. Learn more about Tower Two at Bloc[83] on page 100.

One Glenwood Avenue 919.839.2310 envestnet.com

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KAL EIDOSCOPE L IVING

CORNEILLE LITTLE THREE LITTLE BIRDS, 2020 OIL ON PANEL 9 BY 12 INCHES

COLLAGING SUBJECTS TO LIFE

Native Raleigh artist and elementary school art teacher Corneille Little is known

for her personalized portraits of pets and birds, which she captures in two styles:

realistic oil painting and paper collage. For her unique collage technique, she

collects various types of paper—rice paper, deli paper, old letters, and sheet music

from old hymnals or Bob Marley songs. Then she hand-paints and hand-stamps the paper in liquid-based acrylic paint. When tearing the paper, she mimics the motion

of her brush strokes. Collaging the paper onto the surface brings her subject to life.

Little studied art education at UNC–Chapel Hill. View her pet and bird portraits

at petportraitsbycorneille.com. Little teaches small-group painted paper collage

and pet portrait workshops in her home studio, which reopened this spring.

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“I always start with the eyes, once I get a sense of the soul of the animal, and then I start building around that.”

BY CHARLOTTE RUSSELL