Midtown magazine January/February 2021

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

2021 DIAMOND AWARDS P O W E R PA N T S PA N D E M I C F I T N E S S SNEAKERHEAD CRAZE

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WELLNESS Q&A

Locally Owned SINCE 1948

Family Owned and Operated Since 1948

G OLD

G OLD

Every Woman Wants a Bailey Box Raleigh’s Cameron Village & Crabtree Valley Mall | Rocky Mount | Greenville | www.baileybox.com

Pop, Fizz & Clink!

Cheers to 2021!

dental

center

2021

The Ar of Your Smi e

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We have installed 3803 Computer Drive, Raleigh, NC

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• 919.786.6766 •

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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Cynosure Laser gets rid of embarrasing age spots, sun spots, spider veins on the face and legs, unwanted hair and signs of aging on the face. Call today to schedule a consultation!

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Experience Matters.

Mary Shaver, RN, BSN, CANS

Michael R. Zenn, MD, FACS

• 18+ years experience • Certified Advanced Injector of Dermal Fillers & Botox • PRP, Micro-needling and Skincare

• 25+ years in practice • Board Certified Plastic Surgeon (ABPS) • Former Vice Chief, Duke Plastic Surgery • Ivy League Education and Surgical Training

ZENN PL ASTIC SURGERY AESTHETIC EXCELLENCE. SURGICAL EXPERTISE. EXCEPTIONAL CARE. 7920 ACC BOULEVARD, SUITE 110 | 919.480.3885 | ZENNPLASTICSURGERY.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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We’ve got your back.

WakeMed Women’s From pregnancy and childbirth to mammograms, menopause and more, the care is compassionate, comprehensive and here for you at every life stage. Inpatient and outpatient surgery. Specialty and subspecialty services. Urgent care and emergency care. Diagnostics and imaging. Rehabilitation and more. How much more? Let’s just say, at WakeMed Women’s, we’ve got a lot more than your back. wakemed.org/womens-services

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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EDI TO R’S LETTER ike it or not, 2020 delivered a number of positive lifestyle changes to people around the world. Many who now work from home have become more physically active because they can fit periodic walks around their neighborhood into their schedule. Those who have yearned for a new puppy or kitten now have the time and opportunity to care for one without needing a crate or pet sitter. (I'm taking more hikes with my Brittany spaniel puppy, as you can see in my photo at right.) Choosier shopping habits have helped streamline budgets, and gardens have never looked more manicured.

THE TRIANGLE'S PREMIER CONCIERGE SUNLESS TANNING SERVICE.

That work-from-home thing also boosted “athleisure-wear” sales. As of November 26, Lululemon’s shares were up 54% and Nike’s were up 34%. Meanwhile, Lucky Brand and True Religion both declared bankruptcy, while Levi Strauss & Co’s second quarter sales fell 62%. In “Power Pants” on page 56, discover how and why pandemic fashion trends are quite literally stretching wardrobe limits by making various styles of yoga pants the focal point of our workday attire.

While we’re on the subject of athleisure-wear, “Sneakerheads” on page 83 shines a spotlight on how Raleigh entrepreneurs Michael Phillips, owner of Sircastleteees on West South Street, and Terry “TJ” Mangum, owner of One of One on E. Cabarrus Street, create tricked-up kicks featuring unique blends of colors, patterns, stencils and symbols depicting favorite sports teams, superheroes, cartoon characters and more. These guys will paint whatever you want on your favorite brand of sneakers—from Vans to Nikes.

Where you exercise may have also changed in the last year. Since gyms were closed for most of 2020, and limitations are still in place for those that have reopened, many trainers offer exercise equipment in their garages or have made virtual fitness classes accessible online as part of an effort to keep people moving. Learn more in “Pandemic Fitness” on page 70.

And if COVID-19 actually refers to how much weight you've gained since March, you may be looking for alternative ways to lose those unwanted pounds. From surgery-free procedures to behavior modification, you’ll be surprised at how many ways there are to achieve a healthier size in “New Approaches to Weight Loss in the Triangle” on page 92.

Maintaining good mental health is equally important any day of the year—not just during a pandemic. Labyrinths help those who walk their meandering, often unicursal paths, to slow down, self-reflect and release tension. In “Local Labyrinths” on page 112, learn more about how they work and where you can find them in the Triangle. On that same note, “Taking Care of Yourself While You’re Caring for Everyone Else” on page 108 is another must-read if you’re feeling stretched to the max these days On page 35, we unveil our highly anticipated 2021 Diamond Award winners! You’ll find many businesses, services and venues you're already familiar with among our gold, silver and bronze winners, but we hope you’ll also take the time to check out a few new ones. There are plenty to choose from.

In our departments section, discover a reinvented Jose and Sons on page 118, and learn about new vitamin and supplement technology on page 122. Meet Katie Todd, the woman behind Girls on the Run in the Triangle, on page 124; and 2Digh4, a new band out of FuquayVarina, on page 128. Catch a glimpse of the Carolina Hurricanes’ new practice digs at Wake Competition Center on page 130.

You'll find health- and wellness-themed stories stitched throughout our entire January/February issue. That's because we take this subject very seriously and hope you, our readers, will as well, so you can achieve your best self as we all move forward into a better, brighter new year. Here's to 2021!

844.SPRAYTN OakCitySunless.com 10 | midtownmag.com

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.

PUBL I S H ER Ronny Stephens EDI TO R Beth Shugg C R EATI V E DI R ECTOR Linda J. Van de Zande A DV ERTI S I N G DES IGN Cindy Huntley CO PY EDI TOR Cindy Huntley SOCIAL MEDIA/ COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Brittany Murdock S EN I OR ACCO UN T EX EC UTIVE S Meredith Mills Charis Painter ACCOUN T EX EC UTIVE Aubrey Finley DI STR I BUTI ON Joe Lizana, Manager DistribuTech.net CO N TR I BUTI N G WR I TER S Elliot Acosta, Elizabeth Brignac, Kurt Dusterberg, Kat Harding, Mandy Howard, Elizabeth Kane, Bryan Reed, Charlotte Russell, Mick Schulte, Cheryl Capaldo Traylor, Melissa Wistehuff

• An independent, college-preparatory day school offering an engaging, student-centered learning experience for children 18 months through grade 12 • Fully accredited Montessori and high school International Baccalaureate programs designed to build 21st century skills and prepare students for success in a fast-changing, global world. *The only independent school in the Triangle offering the prestigious IB Diploma Program, the gold standard for college admission

— Excellence in education since 1974 — Schedule an on-campus tour or virtual visit today!

More at MSR.org!

12 | midtownmag.com

CO N TR I BUTI N G PH OTO G R A PH ERS Jared Caldwell, MASH Photography, Brian Mullins, Ty Van de Zande

Midtown magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduction 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 considered 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

STEVEN SHELL LIVING BORN IN LONDON ENJOYED AROUND THE WORLD EST. 1992 Raleigh, NC 2030 Clark Avenue @stevenshelllivingraleigh 919.803.1033 Mount Pleasant, SC 640 Coleman Boulevard @stevenshellliving 843.216.3900

“so much more than just a great furniture store” CASE GOODS, UPHOLSTERY, LIGHTING, RUGS, ACCESSORIES AND OBJETS DE VERTU JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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CONTENTS JA N UA RY| F E B R UA RY

2 0 2 1

MASH Photography

F E AT U R E S 35

D I AM O ND AW AR D S

Explore the winning businesses,

services and venues for 2021

56

PO W E R PANT S

Yoga pant styles top

live-work-play trends

70

P ANDEM IC F ITNES S

Triangle trainers customize services to keep clients moving

C

M

Y

CM

MY

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Mullins MASH Brian Photography

83

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S NE AK E R H E AD S

Local entrepreneurs step up

Raleigh's sneaker culture

92

NE W APPR O AC H E S TO WEIGHT LOSS

Options range from nonsurgical procedures

to behavior modification

108

T AK I NG C AR E O F YO U R S E L F

While you’re caring for everyone else

112

L O C AL L AB YR I NT H S

Take the path to well-being

ON TH E COVE R : Michelle Detitta is wearing a Spiritual Gangster cheetah-print sports bra and Alo Goddess high-waisted pants.

Photo by MASH Photography.

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CY

CMY

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CONTENTS

JA N UA RY |F E B R UA RY

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E PA R T M E N T S D 118 C H E F' S TAB LE

Mexican meets Southern cuisine

and culture at Jose and Sons

Hilton Head Health

122 W E L L N E S S Advances in vitamin technology improve absorption

S I S T E R C I T I E S 28

124 C A N D I D C O N V E R S A T I O N Girls on the Run's Katie Todd builds up young women 128 M U S I C 2DIGH4’s fraternal bonds forge a genre-crossing sound

Samantha Pulley

130 S P O R T S The Carolina Hurricanes settle into new practice digs

E N T E R T A I N M E N T 128

I N

EVERY ISSUE

19 O N T H E S C E N E Social Scene ǀ Home Styler ǀ Foodie Focus Tastes of the City ǀ Sister Cities 133 O U T & A B O U T

Michael Smith

Events ǀ Dine & Draft ǀ

Midtown Mingles ǀ New Around Town

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146 K A L E I D O S C O P E L I V I N G SPORTS 130

S P O N S O R E D

CONTENT

78 H U N G R Y H A R V E S T 82 T H E B O N E A N D J O I N T S U R G E R Y C L I N I C 97 W E L L N E S S Q & A 132 H A L O H E A L T H M O B I L E C O N C I E R G E D O C T O R S

S

Newest Development Inside the Beltline Starting In the High $300s

MillbankRaleigh.com

Sylvain Dufour dufour@kw.com

305.318.2724

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021 | 17 frenchraleigh

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Find The Best You In The New Year

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

Hilton Head Health

SOCIAL SCENE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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SOCIAL SCENE

LET’S CONNECT! TEXT AND PHOTOS BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

ACR at the Park, Ashley Christensen Restaurants’ popular café-style food and drink program at the North Carolina Museum of Art, is wildly delicious and fun. The menu features tasty soups and sandwiches, handcrafted cocktails, beer, wine and lattes. Visit ac-restaurants.com/ncma for more information.

Take picnicking to the next level with a one-of-a-kind charcuterie board from Grazin’ Gals. Customize your grazing board with a variety of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, jams, crackers, nuts and so much more.

Order a board at grazingals.com.

Bold and beautiful murals are gracing the walls of Cameron Village’s shops and restaurants. Take in the inspiring display next time you visit.

Get Social With Us! 20 | midtownmag.com

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midtownmagazine

midtownmag

midtownmagazine

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HOME STYLER

RELAX & UNWIND

BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VENDORS OR BRITTANY MURDOCK UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Now more than ever, people are looking for ways

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to recharge after a long day. Whether you prefer heating up a cup of tea or preparing a soothing bath, local boutiques offer a variety of products that can help you de-stress and stay well.

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3 1 Lyrix Health Elixirs Wellness Tea, $19.95 | NOFO @ the Pig 2 Warmies Hot-Pak, $14 | Swagger 3 H. HAZEL Eye Gels, $13 | Trellis Beauty 4 Voluspa Baltic Amber Candle, $30 Leahlani Meli Glow Illuminating Nectar Mask, $52 | Beauty Co 5 Sali da Bagno Melograno Bath Salts, $75 | Opulence of Southern Pines

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Santa Maria Novella

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8724 GLENWOOD AVENUE FURNISHNC.COM

RALEIGH, NC 27617

@FURNISHRALEIGH

919.670.4400

FACEBOOK.COM/FURNISHNC

2021

f u r n i sh DIAMOND

AWARD

| 23 BEST FURNITURE / HOME DECOR STORE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

FOODIE FOCUS

New Openings:

In November, Raleigh Convergence shared the news that Gov’t Cheeseburger, which started as a temporary pandemic burger shop created by the Postmaster folks in Cary, has changed its name to Fine Folk. Since November 27, Fine Folk has been slinging out of the back of Foundation Bar at 213 Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh. Check out the menu at finefolkraleigh.com.

Relocations:

After a few rounds of remodeling, Jose and Sons’ owner has reopened in his father’s third location of El Rodeo at 4112 Pleasant Valley Road. The restaurant now features a menu that bridges old school Tex-Mex nostalgia to current-day Sur-Mex flavors. Learn more at facebook.com/joseandsonsraleigh.

Expansions:

Jubala Coffee will open its third Raleigh location this spring in the Park District of North Hills, adjacent to the Coastal Credit Union Midtown Park. Look for an “enhanced food menu” that includes weekend brunch options. Jubala’s original location is in Raleigh’s Lafayette Village, with a second location on Hillsborough Street in the Aloft Hotel. Learn more at jubalacoffee.com.

Lonerider in Five Points opened to the public in the former home of The Point at Glenwood. The brewery’s first full restaurant features pizza, wings, salads and more under head chef Ron West, who had previous stints at Flemings, Mandolin and MOFU. Learn more at loneriderbeer.com.

Another location of Wingstop opened in December in Avent Ferry Shopping Center at the intersection of Avent Ferry Road and Gorman Street in Raleigh. This is Wingstop’s seventh Triangle-area location. Learn more at wingstop.com.

Relocations:

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance has put together a great list of outdoor dining options, divided by district. View it at

Mick Schulte

downtownraleigh.org/post/where-to-drink-and-dine-outdoors-indowntown-raleigh.

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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INTERIOR DESIGN CONSULTATIONS FURNITURE & HOME DECOR WINDOW TREATMENTS PAINT COLOR CONSULTATIONS FABRIC & REUPHOLSTERY KITCHEN & BATH REMODELING BEDDING & MATTRESSES WALLPAPER & AREA RUGS

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

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1) State of Beer: Jive Turkey Club with smoked turkey, Vermont sharp cheddar, mixed greens and maple bacon spread, served in a tomato basil wrap. 2) Vivace: Pappardelle Pasta with Bolognese and goat cheese crema. 3) Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar: Bad Daddy’s Amber Ale Bacon Queso with Monterey Jack cheese, jalapeños, green onions and tomatoes, served with crispy tortilla chips. 4) Oakwood Pizza Box: White Pizza with mozzarella, ricotta, garlic, fresh basil and mushrooms.

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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SISTER CITIES

ON THE ROAD TO GOOD HEALTH K ick- start your res ol u t i ons w it h a w e l l n e s s re t reat

Hilton Head Health

Skyterra Wellness Retreat

BY CINDY HUNTLEY

HEALTHY LIVING BY THE SEA

RESET IN THE MOUNTAINS

resolutions focused on health and wellness. What better

Skyterra Wellness Retreat’s mission is to help guests

With the new year upon us, many people are making

Tucked away in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains,

place to accomplish this than at the beach? Hilton Head

reset their lives with a focus on wellness. Since up

South Carolina, offers something for everyone—from its four-week LoseWell weight loss program to WorkWell,

a health-inspired remote work experience. All programs take advantage of the center’s state-of-the-art facility,

which includes a spa, heated pool and sauna; five fitness studios; conference and lecture rooms; and its signature Healthy Kitchen and True Restaurant. The luxurious

on-site lodging includes villas and a newly opened inn.

HiltonHead Health

Visit hhhealth.com for more information.

to only 25 guests are allowed at a time, they get the

one-on-one attention they need to take charge of their health and incorporate lasting changes into their daily

routine. The center offers diet and nutrition classes and counseling, spa and massage services, recreational

opportunities and more than 80 fitness classes. Fourweek weight loss programs and online coaching

designed to extend the results of your visit are also

available. Visit skyterrawellness.com for more information.

Skyterra Wellness Retreat

Health, a destination wellness and weight loss resort in

LOOKING TO BUY AT THE BEACH?

We’ll save a seat for you!

Serving the Brunswick Beaches

The Art of Living Retreat Center

Sunset Beach · Ocean Isle Beach · Holden Beach Oak Island & surrounding areas

WELLNESS FOR THE MIND

Wellness isn’t only about the physical body—it’s equally

LivingCoastalTeam.com

(or arguably, more) important to take care of your mental health. Visit The Art of Living Retreat Center in Boone

to learn the centuries-old practices of meditation and

mindfulness, designed to quiet your mind and align you with the present moment. Choose from a large variety of scheduling and offerings, including programs that

incorporate daily yoga classes, healthy meals, and optional

Living Coastal T E A M

extracurricular and outdoor activities such as painting and

nature walks. To better expand its reach in the midst of the pandemic, the center has also added online options and specialized programs for health care professionals. Visit

The Art of Living Retreat Center

artoflivingretreatcenter.org for more information.

CONTACT US TODAY! EDWINA ST. PIERRE Edwina@IntracoastalRealty.com MELONY RICE Melony@IntracoastalRealty.com KAREN MESKILL KMeskill@IntracoastalRealty.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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Build. Renovate. Preserve.

9 1 9 . 6 9 6 . 8 5 0 0

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a l l u r e h o m e s n c . c o m

3948 Browning Place, Suite 200, Raleigh

Founders

Paul Baggett & Ross Griffin

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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THE BONE & JOINT

SURGERY CLINIC

THE TRIANGLE’S TOP ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALISTS

HELP US IN WELCOMING OUR TWO NEWEST PARTNERS:

& Gary D. Fleischer, M.D.

Johnny T. Nelson, M.D.

We are specialists in minimally invasive surgical and non-surgical options of bone, joint, and muscle injuries.

-Arthroscopic Surgery

-Neck & Spine

-Elbow, Hand & Wrist

-Joint Replacements

-Foot & Ankle

-Shoulder

-Hip & Knee

-Sports Medicine

32 | midtownmag.com 3801 Wake Forest Road, Suite 220 • 919.872.5296 • raleighboneandjoint.com

FEATURES DIAMOND AWARDS | FASHION FITNESS | WORKOUT OPTIONS | SNEAKERHEADS

MASH Photorgraphy

WEIGHT LOSS | SELF-CARE | LABYRINTHS

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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Pursuing

truth, goodness, and beauty.

It’s the Trinity way.

Give your child the gift of a TK-12 classical Christian education.

Discover why Trinity parents have voted us Best Private School three years in a row.

Call or visit us online to start your child’s journey.

trinityacademy.com/grateful 10224 Baileywick Road, Raleigh, NC 27613 (919) 786-0114 trinityacademy.com

34 | midtownmag.com

MIDTOWN DIAMOND AWARD Best Private School - 2021

2021

DIAMOND AWARDS THE BEST OF RALEIGH CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF OUR 2021 DIAMOND AWARDS! READERS THROUGHOUT OUR COMMUNITY VOTED FOR THEIR FAVORITE BUSINESSES, SERVICES AND VENUES. CHECK OUT OUR GOLD, SILVER AND BRONZE WINNERS TO SEE IF YOUR FAVORITES MADE THE LIST — AND USE THIS SECTION TO CREATE YOUR OWN LIST OF NEW PLACES TO VISIT.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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H E A LT H A N D B E A U T Y 2

BEST HAIR SALON GOLD: Mark Christopher Salon SILVER: Von Kekel AVEDA Lifestyle Salon Spa BRONZE: Tone Hair Salon

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BEST PLACE TO GET A MANIPEDI GOLD: Synergy Face + Body SILVER: PAINTBASE BRONZE: Polished Nail Bar

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D I

Mark Christopher Salon

2

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BEST PLACE TO GET BROW AND LASH SERVICES GOLD: The Lash Lounge SILVER: Mark Christopher Salon BRONZE: Ivey Artistry Brow & Beauty BEST YOGA AND PILATES STUDIO GOLD: Gratitude Hot Yoga Center SILVER: Midtown Yoga BRONZE: Barre-Up

MARK CHRISTOPHER SALON

BEST FITNESS CLUB AND GYM GOLD: Life Time Fitness SILVER: Planet Fitness BRONZE: O2 Fitness

M O

The Umstead Hotel and Spa

N D

A W A

Charles Harris

R D S

THE UMSTEAD H OT E L A N D S PA

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BEST SPA EXPERIENCE GOLD: The Umstead Hotel and Spa SILVER: Synergy Face + Body BRONZE: Regenesis MD BEST PLACE TO GET A MASSAGE GOLD: The Umstead Hotel and Spa SILVER: Synergy Face + Body BRONZE: Massage Envy BEST MED SPA GOLD: Regenesis MD SILVER: Blue Water Spa BRONZE: TIE — Synergy Face + Body The MedSpa BEST PLACE TO DE-AGE GOLD: Regenesis MD SILVER: Blue Water Spa BRONZE: Synergy Face + Body BEST DENTIST GOLD: Renaissance Dental Center SILVER: Contemporary Dental BRONZE: Raleigh Dental Arts BEST ORTHODONTIST GOLD: Gladwell Orthodontics SILVER: Zaytoun Orthodontics BRONZE: Carolina Braces

2 0 2 1

D I

AWARD BEST HAIR SALON

DIAMOND

M

AWARD

BEST BROW & LASH SERVICES

O N D

A W A R D

Where BEAUTYMeets ART 2021

DIAMOND

2021

2021

A

S

DIAMOND

AWARD

BEST BROW & LASH SERVICES

LAFAYETTE VILLAGE 8480 HONEYCUTT ROAD SUITE 110

919.280.2691 / IveyArtistry.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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THE DREAM TEAM Photo by Somer Handley

WHO WE ARE THE MOST OUTRAGEOUS MEDICAL MYTH I’VE HEARD That breast augmentation is a ‘simple surgery’.

Merely making breasts bigger is pretty easy to do.

But making breasts both look and feel natural, and making them appear aesthetically ideal and in proportion with the rest of a woman’s body requires expertise, careful attention to every detail, and an artist’s eye.

WHAT IS THE MOST COMMONLY PERFORMED REVISION SURGERY IN YOUR PRACTICE? We regularly see women who were convinced by other surgeons to get larger implants than are suited for their body, and women who really needed a breast lift but instead were given large implants. They look unnatural, feel heavy and make the situation worse. These women are so relieved after revision surgery. We just wish they had been provided with an appropriate treatment plan in the first place.

WHAT SETS YOUR PRACTICE APART? Our practice is designed for the most discerning patients.

Many are physicians, medical professionals or public figures. They appreciate our dual Joint Commission and AAAASF accreditation, having a board-certified MD anesthesiologist personally provide their anesthesia care and our commitment to patient safety, comfort and privacy.

HOW DO YOU SHOW PATIENTS YOU CARE POST-TREATMENT? We are preemptive and proactive about postoperative pain control. Our goal is for our surgery patients to leave the Recovery Area comfortable and quite literally with a smile on their face. Our goal is a less than 24-hour return to routine, non-strenuous activities of daily living.

IS PRIVACY IMPORTANT TO PATIENTS? Privacy is absolutely mportant. No one wants to be wheeled out of surgery into a public lobby or elevator when they are vulnerable and exposed. In our practice, patients go through a private entrance and exit in our single-story facility. Patients don't encounter others leaving the OR or returning for post-op visits. The best plastic surgery is not the surgery you 'see'. Many people would be surprised to know how many physicians, teachers and people in their social circle have had plastic surgery. They don't look 'done' - they just look good.

We provide a discreet experience and surgery results that appear natural. While some of our patients do elect to share their experience, many prefer to keep the source of their enhanced appearance to themselves.

MOMMY MAKEOVER Actual patient of Blue Water Plastic Surgery

MICHAEL LAW, M.D. ALEXANDRA SCHMIDT, M.D. DIAMOND

AWARD BEST MED SPA

DIAMOND

2021

2021

Fellowship Trained Plastic Surgeons

AWARD BEST PLACE TO DE-AGE

10941 Raven Ridge Road d, Raleigh

919.256.0900

BlueWaterPlasticSurgeryPartners.com

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2021

Thank you for nominating and voting us Best Law Firm!

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DIAMOND

AWARD BEST LAW FIRM

We’ve moved to 3739 National Drive, Suite 105, Raleigh, North Carolina 27612

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Attorney David Ford has joined our firm of counsel, bringing over 15 years of real estate law experience.

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Real estate paralegal Barbara Reinhardt has joined our team, bringing over 37 years of paralegal experience.

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It would be our honor to serve you!

M

919.817.8070 genedavislaw.com

O N D

We do the HUSTLE so you don’t have the HASSLE!

A W A R D

2021

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DIAMOND

AWARD BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

HOMESWEETHEIDI.COM

•

919.946.3292 • HEIDI@HOMESWEETHEIDI.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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We look forward to the opportunity to deliver on our guarantee of excellence so you can experience firsthand the benefits of choosing Best Clean Ever as your cleaning company. It is our goal to not only meet your expectations, but to exceed them!

ABOUT US: Best Clean Ever is locally owned and operated and provides premier cleaning services to homes and offices across the Triangle. Our cleaning team provides a delightful cleaning experience with a positive attitude because we take great pride in our work and guarantee your satisfaction.

SERVICES INCLUDE:

DIAMOND

AWARD BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

2021

2021

• Reccurring House or Office Cleanings on a Weekly, Bi-Weekly or Monthly basis • One-time Deep Cleans for special occasions or Move-In/Move-Out Cleans

DIAMOND

AWARD

BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

Thank you for voting Best Clean Ever the Best House Cleaning Service and the Best in Customer Service in both Raleigh and Western Wake!

Are You Ready to Give Your Home The Best Clean Ever? Get a Quote Today!

Visit BestCleanEver.net or call 919.205.9243 40 | midtownmag.com

BEST FAMILY DOCTOR GOLD: Regenesis MD SILVER: Duke Primary Care BRONZE: Wake Internal Medicine Consultants

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BEST OB-GYN GOLD: Kamm McKenzie OBGYN SILVER: Mid-Carolina Obstetrics & Gynecology BRONZE: Arbor ObGyn

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BEST PEDIATRICIAN GOLD: Oberlin Road Pediatrics SILVER: Jeffers, Mann and Artman Pediatrics BRONZE: Raleigh Pediatric Associates

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BEST PSYCHOLOGIST GOLD: Gupta Psychiatry SILVER: MindPath Care Centers BRONZE: HRC Behavioral Health & Psychiatry

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BEST PSYCHIATRIST GOLD: Gupta Psychiatry SILVER: TIE — The Align Center for Couples North Raleigh Psychiatry BRONZE: Family Psychiatry & Psychology Associates BEST CHIROPRACTOR GOLD: Atlas Chiropractic of Raleigh SILVER: Crabtree Chiropractic Center BRONZE: TIE — Chiropractic Partners Raleigh Chiropractic and Wellness

M O N D

G U P TA P S YC H I AT R Y

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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BEST BANK GOLD: State Employees’ Credit Union SILVER: Wells Fargo BRONZE: Truist (formerly BB&T)

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BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR GOLD: Edward Jones SILVER: Merrill BRONZE: TIE — Wells Fargo Ameriprise Richardson Private Wealth Advisors

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BEST LAW FIRM GOLD: C. Mitchell Hatchett III SILVER: Brady Boyette PLLC BRONZE: Gene Davis Law BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT GOLD: Lia Watson of eXp Realty SILVER: Dash Carolina BRONZE: TIE — Christina Valkanoff Realty Group Home Sweet Heidi Realty JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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BEST FLORIST GOLD: Fallon’s Flowers of Raleigh SILVER: Logan’s Garden Shop BRONZE: Kelly Odom Flowers

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BEST SHOPPING CENTER GOLD: North Hills SILVER: Cameron Village BRONZE: Crabtree Valley Mall

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BEST FURNITURE AND HOME DECOR STORE/FIRM GOLD: Green Front Interiors and Rugs SILVER: Inspirations Home Decor & More BRONZE: Furnish

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BEST GARDEN CENTER GOLD: Logan’s Garden Shop SILVER: Atlantic Gardening Company BRONZE: Homewood Nursery & Garden Center

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BEST PET STORE GOLD: Phydeaux SILVER: Unleashed BRONZE: Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

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Anna Haddock

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BEST CAR DEALERSHIP GOLD: Johnson Lexus SILVER: Fred Anderson Toyota BRONZE: Leith Honda BEST JEWELRY STORE GOLD: Bailey’s Fine Jewelry SILVER: Diamonds Direct BRONZE: Fink’s Jewelers

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BEST PLACE TO BUY WEDDING RINGS GOLD: Bailey’s Fine Jewelry SILVER: Diamonds Direct BRONZE: Fink’s Jewelers

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JOHNSON LEXUS

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BEST WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE GOLD: Swagger SILVER: Kannon’s Clothing BRONZE: Monkee’s of Raleigh BEST MEN’S BOUTIQUE GOLD: Kannon’s Clothing SILVER: TIE — Liles Clothing Studio Nowell’s Clothiers BRONZE: Ticknors Men’s Clothier

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BEST RESALE AND CONSIGNMENT CLOTHING STORE GOLD: dress.

SILVER: Fifi’s BRONZE: ADORE Designer Resale Boutique BEST WOMEN’S SHOE STORE GOLD: Main & Taylor SILVER: DSW BRONZE: Monkee’s of Raleigh 42 | midtownmag.com

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A Century of Excellence

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AWARD BEST MEN’S BOUTIQUE

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BEST WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE A

Located in Cameron Village WOMEN’S 2015 Cameron St. 919.365.7074

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MEN’S 435 Daniels St. 919.366.6902

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KannonsClothing.com

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BEST LAW FIRM

Exceptional legal services in a relaxed environment • Residential Real Estate • Commercial Real Estate • Business Law • Estate Planning

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN MIDTOWN @ 1025 DRESSER COURT, RALEIGH NC 27609 / 919.439.6777 / BRADYLAWPLLC.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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GRATITUDE HOT YOGA CENTERS are locally owned and operated by ROMAN SZPOND. With Roman's 20+ years of experience, he and his leadership team have refined a

PROVEN PROCESS that makes yoga accessible and

enjoyable, and gets results. Come and experience why we

2021

were voted the BEST IN RALEIGH two years in a row.

DIAMOND

AWARD

BEST YOGA AND PILATES STUDIO

GRATITUDE HOT YOGA CENTER HAS TWO LOCATIONS!

10501 Shadowlawn Drive #109, Raleigh, NC 27614 GLENWOOD LOCATION 6909 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 108, Raleigh, NC 27612 FALLS LOCATION

46 | midtownmag.com

GRATITUDEHOTYOGA.COM

SERVICES

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BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL GOLD: Trinity Academy SILVER: Ravenscroft BRONZE: Cardinal Gibbons High School

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BEST BUILDER GOLD: Loyd Builders SILVER: Dixon Kirby BRONZE: Homes by Dickerson

Catherine Nguyen

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BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER GOLD: Design by Tula SILVER: Lavish BRONZE: La Maison

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BEST LANDSCAPER GOLD: Mr. Mow It All SILVER: DreamScapes BRONZE: LawnMasterNC

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BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE GOLD: Go 2 Girls SILVER: Best Clean Ever BRONZE: Dust and Mop

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BEST RETIREMENT LIVING GOLD: The Cypress of Raleigh SILVER: Capital Oaks Retirement Resort BRONZE: Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community

DESIGN

BY TULA

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BEST TRAVEL AGENCY GOLD: Maupin Travel SILVER: DWB Vacations BRONZE: AAA A

Catherine Nguyen

BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR COMPANY GOLD: Creech Import Repair SILVER: TIE — Peoples Tire & Auto Duty Tire & Service Center BRONZE: AVEC Service Center

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BEST HOME/AUTO INSURANCE AGENCY GOLD: NC Farm Bureau Insurance Group SILVER: State Farm BRONZE: USAA

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BEST VETERINARIAN GOLD: Bayleaf Veterinary Hospital SILVER: Armadale Farm Kennel BRONZE: Care First Animal Hospital

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BEST PET PAMPERING BUSINESS GOLD: Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming SILVER: FURbaby Pet Sitters BRONZE: Canine Country Club & Pet Hotel BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE GOLD: Best Clean Ever SILVER: Von Kekel AVEDA Lifestyle Salon Spa BRONZE: Synergy Face + Body JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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WE ARE HERE WHEN YOU ARE READY. A W A R D S

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Serving the travel needs in the Triangle and beyond for over 40 years

M AU P I N T R AV E L . C O M | 919.832.5550 48 | midtownmag.com

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2021

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AWARD BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

That’s the beauty of 2 0 2 1

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BEST RETIREMENT LIVING

Thank you Raleigh for recognizing Springmoor Retirement Community!

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Call 919-926-7702 or visit us online today to request your FREE Springmoor Information Packet!

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1500 Sawmill Road • Raleigh, NC 27615 www.Springmoorinfo.org

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E N T E R TA I N M E N T A N D R E L A X AT I O N 2

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

Music Park at Walnut Creek BRONZE: Lincoln Theatre

VisitNC.com

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GOLD: Red Hat Amphitheater SILVER: Coastal Credit Union

2

BEST LIVE THEATER GOLD: Durham Performing Arts Center SILVER: North Carolina Theatre BRONZE: Raleigh Little Theatre

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BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN GOLD: Frankie’s SILVER: Marbles Kids Museum BRONZE: Dave and Buster’s

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BEST MUSEUM GOLD: North Carolina Museum of Art SILVER: Marbles Kids Museum BRONZE: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

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NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART

VisitNC.com

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BEST PLACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION GOLD: William B. Umstead State Park SILVER: Dorothea Dix Park BRONZE: North Carolina Museum of Art Park

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BEST PLACE FOR A STAYCATION IN THE TRIANGLE GOLD: The Umstead Hotel and Spa SILVER: Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel BRONZE: Guest House Raleigh

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DINING BEST RESTAURANT GOLD: Crawford and Son SILVER: Angus Barn BRONZE: Vinnie’s Steak House and Tavern

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VisitNC.com

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CRAWFORD AND SON VisitNC.com

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BEST NEW RESTAURANT GOLD: Jolie SILVER: Rosewater Kitchen & Bar BRONZE: STIR BEST BUSINESS LUNCH GOLD: Winston’s Grille SILVER: The Capital Grille BRONZE: Vivace BEST OUTDOOR DINING GOLD: Vivace SILVER: Winston’s Grille BRONZE: Taverna Agora BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER GOLD: Second Empire SILVER: Herons BRONZE: Angus Barn

50 | midtownmag.com

THE PRID E OF OWNER SHIP IS OBVIOUS.

MAKE IT YOURS.

When homes at The Cypress of Raleigh come up for sale, they’re often snapped up quickly.

That occurs because the rewards of home ownership in this highly desirable senior living community are many. Of course, it’s a wise investment for you and your family. But mostly, you’ll love The Cypress because of the idyllic lifestyle. Long walks along lovely private lakes, fine cuisine crafted by top chefs and a variety of wellness opportunities. Plus, and this is a big plus indeed, exceptional healthcare right on-site, should you ever need it. All good reasons to check out The Cypress of Raleigh now, before another great home passes you by.

We are honored to have won Gold for Best Retirement Living. Thank you to Midtown magazine readers, and the entire staff at The Cypress of Raleigh.

2021

Call 919.518.8907 to learn more.

DIAMOND

AWARD BEST RETIREMENT LIVING

2 0 2 1

Taste our delicious, authentic 100% gluten-free arepas.

Always handcrafted with love and served with a smile!

Find the ORIGINAL arepa food truck of the Triangle and visit our new flagship store in Raleigh.

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We also CATER, with or without our trucks!

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Megan / NC Eat & Play

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AWARD BEST FOOD TRUCK

6274 GLENWOOD AVENUE | PLEASANT VALLEY PROMENADE | RALEIGH | OPENING EARLY JANUARY 2021 — Follow us on social media or visit our website to find our schedule and food truck locations — 919.977.4069 AREPACULTURENC.COM 919.986.8487

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DINING BEST BREAKFAST GOLD: First Watch SILVER: Brigs BRONZE: Big Ed’s

2 THE PIT

0 2 VisitNC.com

BEST WEEKEND BRUNCH GOLD: STIR SILVER: Coquette BRONZE: Winston’s Grille

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BEST BARBECUE GOLD: The Pit Authentic Barbecue SILVER: City Barbeque BRONZE: Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque

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BEST BURGER GOLD: Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar SILVER: Five Guys BRONZE: BurgerFi

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BEST PIZZA GOLD: Nancy’s Pizzeria SILVER: Trophy Brewing + Pizza BRONZE: Oakwood Pizza Box

VisitNC.com

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BEST STEAKHOUSE GOLD: Angus Barn SILVER: Vinnie’s Steak House and Tavern BRONZE: Sullivan’s Steakhouse

BEST PLACE FOR A GLASS OF WINE GOLD: Vita Vite SILVER: Barcelona Wine Bar BRONZE: Vivace BEST PLACE FOR A COCKTAIL GOLD: Level7 SILVER: STIR BRONZE: Hummingbird BEST LOCAL COFFEEHOUSE GOLD: Sola Coffee Cafe SILVER: Jubala Coffee BRONZE: Cup A Joe

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RALEIGH BEER GARDEN

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BEST BEER SELECTION GOLD: Raleigh Beer Garden SILVER: Trophy Brewing Co. BRONZE: House of Hops

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BEST HEALTHY EATS GOLD: Happy + Hale SILVER: Sassool BRONZE: Clean Eatz

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BEST BREAD BAKERY GOLD: La Farm Bakery SILVER: Yellow Dog Bread Co. BRONZE: Boulted Bread

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BEST CAKES AND SWEETS GOLD: Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery SILVER: Nothing Bundt Cake BRONZE: Edible Art Bakery & Dessert Café

Andrew Albright/Mainland Creative

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TWO ROOSTERS

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BEST ICE CREAM GOLD: Two Roosters Ice Cream SILVER: Goodberry’s Frozen Custard BRONZE: FRESH. Local Ice Cream BEST FOOD TRUCK GOLD: Arepa Culture NC SILVER: Cousins Maine Lobster BRONZE: Gym Tacos BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR GOLD: North Ridge Pub SILVER: Chow BRONZE: O’Malley’s Pub & Restaurant

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BEST ITALIAN FOOD GOLD: Vivace SILVER: Café Tiramisu BRONZE: Bella Monica

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Briana Bough Photography

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A C AT E R I N G WORKS

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Briana Bough Photography

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BEST SEAFOOD GOLD: 42nd St. Oyster Bar & Seafood Grill SILVER: Cape Fear Seafood Company BRONZE: Shuckers Oyster Bar & Grill BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD GOLD: Sassool SILVER: Taverna Agora BRONZE: Neomonde BEST INDIAN FOOD GOLD: Azitra Indian Culinary Nirvana SILVER: Kabab & Curry BRONZE: Taj Mahal Indian Restaurant BEST MEXICAN FOOD GOLD: Gonza Tacos y Tequila SILVER: Salt & Lime Cabo Grill BRONZE: Torero’s BEST ASIAN FOOD GOLD: Neo-Asia SILVER: Chai’s Asian Bistro BRONZE: Bida Manda BEST CATERING GOLD: Catering Works SILVER: PoshNosh BRONZE: Ladyfingers BEST GROCERY STORE GOLD: Wegmans SILVER: Harris Teeter BRONZE: Publix BEST DELIVERY SERVICES GOLD: Donovan’s Dish SILVER: BytheGrace BRONZE: Fig’s Market

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2

Nightly Features

Tuesday & Thursday: All bottled wine is half price. Includes our Reserve Collection.

Complimentary Deviled Eggs Every Night!

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Friday & Saturday: Slow-roasted, CertiďŹ ed Angus Beef prime rib.

AWARD BEST STEAKHOUSE

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BEST RESTAURANT

7440 Six Forks Road • Raleigh • vinniessteakhouse.com • 919.847.7319 • Call for reservations or

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Thank you for voting us Best Builder!

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AWARD BEST BUILDER

A W A R D S

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p Ayana is wearing a Patagonia Women's Houdini jacket,

Lululemon Fast and Free leggings and Nike Metcons.

u Michelle is wearing a Zara crop top and Beyond Yoga

56 | midtownmag.com

Alloy OmbrĂŠ leggings.

POWER PANTS Yo g a p a n t s t y l e s t o p p a n d e m i c l i v e - w o r k- p l a y f a s h i o n t re n d s

B Y M I C K S C H U LT E

PHOTOS BY MASH PHOTOGRAPHY

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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W

e’ve all seen the devolution of COVID style.

Your neighbor who used to walk her dog in business casual “work-from-home” wear now prances down the block in the same checkered pajama pants, purple robe and bed-head she has worn all week. There's no shame in the pandemic wardrobe game.

Yet if there is a silver lining to our subsiding sophistication during this season, it’s a penchant for all things cozy.

And the clothing item that has risen to the top of the comfort scene is the ubiquitous yoga pant.

Lisa is wearing a pink Lululemon sweater and retired u

Lululemon leggings that are similar to the Align leggings .

58 | midtownmag.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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60 | midtownmag.com

While yoga pants aren’t anything new, their level of popularity has skyrocketed in the past year, along with the athleisure brands that sell them. Many consumers are saying good bye to jeans forever and adopting athleisure as a way of life. “It takes a special occasion for me to wear jeans at this point. I’m basically living in athleisure and absolutely loving it,” says Megan Jones, owner of Pure Barre in Raleigh.

This trend is taking a toll on denim companies. Lucky Brand and True Religion both declared bankruptcy, while Levi Strauss & Co’s second quarter sales fell 62%. On the flip side, companies like Lululemon and Athleta are seeing their already-wide consumer base expand exponentially.

t Lisa, a Lululemon brand ambassador, is wearing a scarf made by a friend in Afghanistan with a Lululemon Align tank top, a faux leather jacket from Target and Lululemon Align joggers. She is carrying a faux leather overnight bag from Target.

t Lisa is wearing a Wrap Life head wrap, Lululemon Align

tank top and Gap denim jacket.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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62 | midtownmag.com

“The pandemic reminded all of us that we are human,” says Lisa Yebuah, a pastor at Southeast Raleigh Table and brand ambassador for Lululemon. “That sounds simple, but sometimes we dress to impress, perform or make a statement, and that was all taken away from us. The comfort of athleisure allows us to honor our humanity while we try to live through a global pandemic.”

As a brand ambassador to Lululemon, Yebuah is faithful to the Align Pant, which is a later generation of the first yoga pant created by the British Columbia brand in 1998.

Lululemon has redefined clothing by developing innovative fabrics that not only provide comfort, but also style. Beyond the clothing, the company develops relationships within communities via brand ambassadors like Yebuah.

t Michelle and Ayana are wearing

Spiritual Gangster cheetah-print sports

bras and Alo Goddess high-waisted pants.

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64 | midtownmag.com

t Michelle is wearing Lululemon black-and-white striped yoga pants and a Free People sports bra. q Ayana is wearing an Athleta Foothill long-sleeve shirt

in flora mauve, Athleta Elation Ultra High Rise tights

and an Athleta knotted headband. $18

FALLING IN LOVE As most of us distance ourselves from loved ones, in some cases a special pair of yoga pants can fill an emotional void. Jill Perkins of Durham describes her relationship with yoga pants as a surprising romance of sorts. “It started out casually, but I still had my flings with other pants,” she says. “Then one day I realized I was seeing them almost daily — sneaking into them for work Zooms, reaching for them in the morning. And when we weren’t together, I was thinking about them. That’s when I knew it was getting serious. At this point our relationship is stronger than ever. Sure, we have our moments when I don’t trust them and think they’re leading me on with their stretchy, high waist and promise of athletic-looking appearance, but most days it’s smooth sailing. I sincerely hope we never part.”

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While Perkins’ comments take a humorous tone, it’s true that Americans have fallen in love with athleisure. “The great thing about it is that it makes you feel confidently comfortable and still reflects your personal style,” says Christy Percival, owner of Midtown Yoga in Raleigh.

Her studio sells major athleisure brands like Lululemon, Alo and Beyond Yoga while also offering her own line of sweatshirts and tank tops.

Percival admits that when it comes to yoga pants, she is loyal to the Lululemon Align style. “I have probably 20 pairs in my closet,” she says. “They offer such great style and comfort.”

The big question is: Does society’s adaption to athleisure during the pandemic mean there’s no going back once it ends? “I think it’s a very good thing if the athleisure trend continues on,” Yebuah says. “We are recognizing that our brilliance wasn’t in our power suits. My athleisure is my power suit now.”

66 | midtownmag.com

*Photos taken summer of 2019

Give the Gift of Summer

@

June 21–July 30, 2021 Residential & Day Camps Registration is open!

919.424.4028 • SMS.EDU/SUMMER

t p Ayana is wearing a Target

jumpsuit, Victoria's Secret

sports bra, Midtown Yoga cork

hat, a dotbliss.moda sling pack

and Converse sneakers.

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POPULAR YOGA PANT STYLES Need help deciding which kind of “power pants” may be right for you? Here’s a list of some of the most popular styles on the market.

LULULEMON ALIGN PANTS

The popular Align pants are made with Lululemon’s trademark fabrics that offer sweat wicking, four-way stretch and a “buttery” soft feel that holds after hundreds of washes.

Because they’re so lightweight, they create a naked feel while offering 100% opacity. Aligns have a hidden waistband pocket that opens from the side. $98 Reviewers say: Totally worth the price.

ATHLETA ULTRA HIGH RISE ELATION TIGHTS

Like Lululemon, Athleta also creates its own custom fabrics. The company uses its Powervita fabric to make the breathable, sweat-wicking Ultra High Rise Elation Tights, which have a light compression. Powervita fabric is made from recycled nylon/Lycra spandex. Athleta is a Certified B Corporation, which means it is legally required to consider the impact of its decisions on employees, customers, suppliers, the community and the environment. $89 Reviewers say: The fabric is on the thicker side, which helps hide sweat and underwear lines.

ALO HIGH-WAIST MOTO LEGGINGS

Alo is gaining as much popularity as Lululemon and Athleta thanks to the popularity of its signature leggings: the High-Waist Motos.

High-waisted yoga pants are on-trend these days, and so are the variety of fabrics and colors Alo offers. These yoga pants have the same four-way stretch and sweat-wicking capabilities as others, while also offering contouring panels that help create a nice silhouette on any body type. $114–$118 Reviewers say: Lots of variety and fabulously flattering.

TARGET BRAND ALL IN MOTION PREMIUM HIGH-WAISTED LEGGINGS

In response to the rise of athleisure wear, Target created its own brand: All In Motion.

The fabrics used for these pants are made of recycled polyester and offer moisture wicking and flat seams. While there is little compression compared to other brands, they are very affordable — and the pockets are great for storing items during a long run or active workout. $40 Reviewers say: Wonderful price, comfortable and convenient.

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OLD NAVY HIGH-WAISTED BALANCE YOGA LEGGINGS

Many influencers used to swear by Old Navy’s High-Waisted Balance yoga leggings that offer compression and a soft, buttery feel for a small fraction of the price of other athleisure brands; however, Old Navy recently changed the fabrics and the leggings don’t get the same high ratings as before. Even so, these pants are very affordable and offer a wide range of sizes to accommodate any body type (regular, tall, petite and plus). $22.99–$24.99 Reviewers say: Bring back the old fabric!

BEYOND YOGA SPACEDYE CAUGHT IN THE MIDI HIGH WAISTED LEGGINGS

These Beyond Yoga pants are close in look and feel to Lululemon’s Align Pants, but consist of a slightly thicker fabric made of polyester and spandex. They have the same four-way stretch and sweat-wicking properties as others and, according to some fans, an even softer feel than Lululemon pants. $97 Reviewers say: Perfect for any workout or just running errands.

PATAGONIA WOMEN’S CENTERED TIGHTS

Patagonia leggings offer the same high-quality feel consumers have come to expect from this brand. Featuring fabric made from 85% recycled polyester and 15% spandex, the pants are both comfortable and ethical (Patagonia is also a Certified B Corporation). They come with a lifetime manufacturer warranty, so consumers can expect durability. $79 Reviewers say: Snug and soft, and fit like an extra layer of skin.

SPANX BOOTY BOOST ACTIVE LEGGINGS

These pants do exactly what you would expect from the name — boost your booty and “give you the best rear view … B.S. (before squats).”

They are made from SPANX’s signature sculpting fabric that fits a bit more snuggly than other materials. A contoured waistband also helps create an attractive silhouette on any body shape. $98 Reviewers say: The ultimate in figure-flattering activewear.

pp Michelle is wearing a

Midtown Yoga sweatshirt.

p Michelle is wearing an Old Navy

Cozy Teddy Sherpa half-zip

tunic and Old Navy High-Rise

Balance leggings.

We would like to thank our models from Midtown Yoga: Ayana Gibbs and Michelle Detitta; Lulemon brand ambassador Lisa Yebuah; and Eliza Kraft Oleander for the use of the labyrinth on her property.

PANDEMIC FITNESS 70 | midtownmag.com

TRIANGLE TRAINERS CUSTOMIZE SERVICES TO KEEP CLIENTS MOVING

BY MANDY HOWARD PHOTOS BY JARED CALDWELL

E

very January, many people choose to renew their fitness goals, lifestyle choices and New Year’s resolutions. But

this year is a little different. Whether you’re approaching 2021 with an attitude of hope, relief or trepidation, consider looking at fitness in a whole new way.

Good health is the first defense against illness, but daily news reports painfully punctuate how underlying conditions, like diabetes and obesity, increase susceptibility to the worst of the novel coronavirus. This virus can be cruel, attacking the most vulnerable.

It’s our job to strengthen our bodies and take care of ourselves so we can take care of others. But how should we do that?

Fortunately, we live in an area rich

IAN BUTLER TRANSFORMED HIS GARAGE INTO A GYM FOR CLIENTS TO USE.

with creative and passionate fitness experts who are ready to make 2021 your fittest year yet, despite COVID-19.

Here are just a few of the innovative possibilities near you.

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P A N DEMI C FI T NESS SI LV ER L I N INGS Train like a star.

Pre-COVID, only mega-stars could take personal trainers with them when they traveled.

Now, your favorite class and instructors likely offer their expertise online so you, too, can train with them anywhere you go.

No more crowds.

Did you avoid group fitness because you were scared of accidentally kicking your neighbor? COVID-19 restrictions ensure plenty of space to move.

Be one with nature.

Enjoy North Carolina’s mild weather and beautiful terrain by taking advantage of outdoor exercise classes.

Break the rut.

If the pandemic has forced you to change up your routine, you may as well try something new. Take an exercise dance class in the privacy of your home, or pick up a new sport, like pickleball (see page 78).

72 | midtownmag.com

HOME IS WHERE THE HIIT IS Whether you have a go-to routine or enjoy high intensity interval training (HIIT), there are plenty of customized options to choose from across the Triangle. Imagine going to a full-service gym built just for you. That is precisely what Ian Butler imagined when he created Butler Elite Training.

After the pandemic hit our area, this personal trainer and virtual fitness coach transformed parts of his home into a premier fitness facility. His two-car garage

now houses a gym. And nestled in his spacious backyard, a pool enables water training and a 70yard path accommodates crossfit training (with a tire pull).

Butler ideally trains clients two to three times a week and encourages them to apply what they learn from him to their home workouts. You don’t need much, he says. A gallon jug of water, several cans of soup, workout bands and your own body weight are the only things he expects clients to have on

hand. “You can work out with just this and not be able to walk the next day,” Butler says, displaying the smallest band in his gym. You can also find countless videos with band workouts on YouTube, he says.

Butler also offers monthly Facebook challenges at facebook.com/butlerelitetraining.

Anyone, whether a client or not, can sign up for one. Learn more about all of Butler’s services at butlerelitetraining.com.

BRING THE GY M TO YO U Kevin Reddick’s name probably sounds familiar.

The New Bern native was a Chapel Hill football star who also played for the Carolina Panthers. Prior to entering the NFL draft, Reddick earned an exercise science degree from UNC– Chapel Hill. He says football was his passion, but fitness is his purpose.

Reddick retired from the NFL and started personal training near his home in Virginia after receiving his National Academy of Sports Medicine and USA Weightlifting certifications.

As his family planned to move back to North Carolina, Reddick dreamed of opening his own gym in his home state. Until that time came, he planned to continue working as a trainer at a local, established gym.

FORMER CAROLINA PANTHERS FOOTBALL STAR KEVIN RIDDICK BRINGS THE GYM TO HIS CLIENTS.

Ashley Liu Kirkman from Flywheel Sports Raleigh and Jordyn Matthews from treadHAPPY have partnered to launch Ride + Run Raleigh, a virtualonly fitness studio. This digital platform interchangeably combines run and spin/ride coached formats to facilitate a safe and affordable virtual cardio experience. Members can participate live or on-demand, and their monthly dues go to the charitable effort of supporting local fitness studios and gyms.

Learn more at riderunraleigh.com.

RALEIGH RIDE + RUN STAFF

Nieto Photography

RI DE + RUN RALE IGH

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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FU N FI T N ESS GA D G ETS

BY ELIZABETH BRIGNAC

Looking for new fitness tools? The Nintendo Switch offers fitness-oriented games guaranteed to help you break a sweat. Players of Ring Fit Adventure go on a journey to defeat Dragaux, a fitnessobsessed dragon, using exercise to take out monsters along the way. Nintendo Switch also offers American Ninja Warrior: Challenge, a fitness boxing game, and Zumba Burn it Up!, among other dance and sports games.

Apple’s Fitness+ app gives subscribers access to a diverse selection of studio workouts and integrates data from the Apple Watch so participants can see their heart rates and timer countdowns — and even compare their performance to those of others who completed the same workouts. Garmin's Vivoactive 4 watch links to the Garmin Connect app to offer similar features.

Want to increase hydration?

Consider one of several smart water bottles on the market.

The HidrateSpark, for example, tracks water intake with an app and reminds its user to drink water. Other water bottles light up and/or play music to remind users to hydrate.

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KEVIN RIDDICK'S INFRARED ELITE CLIENTS WALK OUTSIDE THEIR DOOR TO FIND AN ELITE TRAINER AND TOP EQUIPMENT WAITING FOR THEM.

But then, just days after he and his family moved to North Carolina, the pandemic hit and his plans fell through. With a new home under construction and a baby on the way, Reddick had to think fast.

Inspired by the notion that physical fitness could help people fight COVID-19, while also facing the reality that everyone needed to stay at home, Reddick founded InfraRED Elite. He decided: “Let’s go to people. Let’s be convenient.” After all, “the hardest part about working out is getting up and going to the gym,” he says.

InfraRED Elite removes that hurdle by allowing clients to walk outside their own front door where the best equipment and an elite trainer waits, ready for a full workout.

“My goal is to help save lives,” Reddick says. “I’m not a nurse, I’m not a doctor … but, I can be impactful in the community, whether that’s saving a life or just helping someone get their mojo back. If you can help someone get their confidence back, that goes a long way.”

Learn more about InfraRED Elite’s packages and options at infraredelitefitness.com.

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YOBA STUDIO NOW OWNS A 42-FOOT RV.

S A M E ST U D I O, E X PA N D E D O P T I O N S In January 2020, Beth Gargan joined YoBa Studio in Raleigh.

Little did she know that less than two months later, a worldwide pandemic would shut it down. “I loved the instructors, the music, the experience of yoga and what it did for me physically, mentally and spiritually,” Gargan says.

YoBa Studio owner Sam Williams knew she had to think quickly to serve members like Gargan. “How do I hang on to the clients who help my business thrive?” she wondered.

After taking a day to fully experience the sadness and

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frustration this caused her, Williams asked team members to help her move forward.

First they borrowed a camera and lights, then they created online videos for each of their class types. “Within the first week of being closed, our members were invited to a member library, which gave them access to all of our modalities,” Williams says.

In time, those options expanded from prerecorded videos to livestream experiences, outdoor classes and in-studio classes with limited participants. “I feel safe

and comfortable taking indoor classes at the limited capacity they are operating at,” says Gargan, who attends class nearly every day.

Through it all, Williams made finding a way to meet her clients’ diverse needs and schedules her top priority — a journey that felt scary at first, but ended up being a blessing.

YoBa Studio plans to continue expansion with the purchase and renovation of a 42-foot RV that will travel across the Southeast promoting the business and that, potentially, could help Williams search for

a second brick-and-mortar location. This initiative, she says, would never have happened if not for COVID-19.

Other studios in the area, from Pure Barre to Barre-Up, are also keeping members engaged and moving by offering them access to a variety of online, outdoor and safe indoor options.

Whatever fitness routine you prefer, local business owners have ensured that you’ll be able to find a style, schedule and location that works for you.

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S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N T H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Healthier Choices. Bigger Impact.

Eat well. Do good. Spend Less.

Looking for a good start to the New Year? It’s no secret that incorporating more fresh produce into your meals is better for your health. The benefits of eating a plant-forward diet are plentiful, and include lower rates of cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, as well as giving you a clearer complexion, more energy and heightened taste buds! But what if eating healthier could also benefit your local community? With Hungry Harvest you can enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables for less than typical grocery prices, all while fighting food waste and hunger with every delivery.

Each year approximately 20 billion pounds of delicious fruits and veggies go to waste before they ever leave the farm. Hungry Harvest rescues this perfectly good produce that might not make it to retail for being the wrong size, wrong color, wrong

shape or simply because of a grower surplus and delivers it to your doorstep. We can pay farmers a fair price for their whole harvest and still pass savings on to you.

Every Harvest saves at least 10 pounds of produce from going to waste and helps support the work of local hunger-solving organizations around the Triangle Area of NC, as well as Hungry Harvest’s own pandemic relief and food access initiatives.

Since 2014, Hungry Harvest has reduced over 25 million pounds of food waste and donated or subsidized over 1.6 million pounds of produce to partner organizations and through our own food access programs.

Available in a variety of sizes and options, including organic, you can get a new mix of produce each week

or customize your order for free, mixing and matching your fruits, veggies and kitchen staples to make sure you get just the right harvest for the way you like to cook. Each no contact delivery is made using a team of local drivers and boxes start at just $15.

When you purchase your produce with Hungry Harvest you can feel good knowing you’re not just saving money on good food, you’re also saving good food from going to waste. Sign up now and get 50% off your first harvest with promo code: HEALTHYNC50.

Hungry Harvest hungryharvest.net Serving the Triangle Hungry Harvest delivers farm fresh produce and pantry staples for less than grocery. Every delivery fights food waste and hunger in our local communities.

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

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iStock/ BHPix

W HA T I S P IC KL E B A L L ?

PRIMARY CARE | PEDIATRIC CARE URGENT CARE | WELLNESS CARE

ON-DEMAND MOBILE CONCIERGE MEDICAL CARE

And why is this sport taking over your neighborhood? Here are the basics and how you can get started.

Who: Anyone at any age can play, but according to USA Pickleball, the average age of all players is 41; the average age of core players is 54, and the average age of casual players is 33. That said, teenagers and 20-somethings have also made quite a few appearances on Triangle pickleball courts lately.

What: Pickleball was created in 1965 on Bainbridge Island in Washington state.

It combines badminton, pingpong and tennis and is played either one-on-one or in a doubles format (like tennis). Players use a paddle to hit a perforated ball, similar to a whiffle ball, over a net. The court is about one-fourth the size of a tennis court, which opens the sport up to athletes who have mobility issues.

Where: Find pickleball courts throughout the Triangle — from Method Community Park in Raleigh to White Oak Park in Cary.

For a detailed list of court locations, or to find a pickup game, visit usapickleball. org or globalpickleball.network/network/

home/3205-the-triangle-pickleball-network.

Why: Pickleball is competitive, but doesn’t kill your joints or require a ton of space or people to play. “It’s fun, relatively easy to learn, and combines my love of tennis and table tennis,” says recent pickleball convert Melanie LaChance of Raleigh.

When: No time like the present! Pick up a paddle and try this fun sport today.

Dr. Joe Hummel

Dr. Dan Minior

Jen Sturcken, PA-C

Chris Wright, PA-C

Your Doctor at YOUR Door.

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S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N T H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Why Did My Doctor Order An MRI? An orthopaedist (or orthopaedic surgeon) can

to the bone’s cartilage or the meniscus or labrum

but is often used to help focus in on a

diagnose a lot of problems and injuries by listening

(which act like spacers) in the joint; ligament tears

more specific location for the diagnosis.

carefully to your symptoms and how they came

or stretches; bruising in the muscle, tendon or

about, and by doing a thorough examination.

bone; muscle strains or tears; inflammation or

Combinations. Most often, your doctor will need

Sometimes it may seem like they can “see” into

damage to the tendons; swelling; fluid collections; or

your joints, muscles and bones. At other times,

even tumors. Hidden fractures X-rays don’t see will

X-rays or MRIs are necessary to be more thorough.

also show up on an MRI. The larger the magnet, the

So, for what common purposes are different

better the details, and The Bone and Joint Surgery

types of “imaging” used?

Clinic has one of the largest magnets available.

X-rays are used to see the condition of bones, such

Ultrasound can show a moving picture, or real time

as fractures or breaks in the bone, or signs of

view, of muscles, tendons and bones if they are not

arthritis — like bone spurs or narrowing of the space

too deep in the body. It is often used to assist in

between the bones at joints, indicating wearing of

the correct placement of injections, or to look for

the cartilage. Other conditions, like dislocations of

the cause of popping or clicking that other studies

joints when they don’t line up properly after an

can’t show well enough.

injury, or bones that have weakened with age or

Less often, bone scans will be used to look for areas that a bone is trying to heal or strengthen.

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, uses a

These are commonly ordered when looking for a

powerful magnetic field to see the soft tissues that

stress fracture, shin splints, loosening of a joint

X-rays don’t show well. It can detect conditions like

replacement, presence of a tumor, or other similar

subtle wearing of the joint from arthritis or injury

issues. It is less sensitive than the other studies

more complete picture of a diagnosis. Each one provides part of the picture needed to make the correct diagnosis, and it is how the best treatments can be chosen for your individual care.

Stay healthy. Keep moving.

Brian Mullins

disease (osteoporosis), can also be seen.

more than one of these types of studies to paint a

The Bone and Joint Surgery Clinic raleighboneandjoint.com 919.322.8619 3801 Wake Forest Road, Suite 220 Raleigh, North Carolina 27609

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

82 | midtownmag.com

sneakerhead ['snēk rIhed] NOUN e

A sneaker enthusiast; someone who collects, trades, admires and studies the history of sneakers.

Sneakerheads Local artists and entrepreneurs step up sneaker culture in the Triangle

BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF

PHOTOS BY MASH PHOTOGRAPHY JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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MICHAEL PHILLIPS IS OWNER OF SIRCASTLETEEES.

M

ost fashion trends tend to be cyclical, with recurring fads coming in and out of style over seasons and throughout decades. The sneakerhead craze, however, isn’t merely a trend; it’s a culture.

Fashion and music have always been interconnected, and with the hip-hop revolution striking in the mid-1980s at the same time Michael Jordan’s NBA basketball career reached its pinnacle, sports and athletes jumped into the mix. Enter the hype of the sneaker and emergence of the sneakerhead, where fashion, music and sports became as

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interwoven as the threads on a pair of Air Jordan shoelaces.

Back in the day, sneaker fanatics camped outside a store to be the first person to lay hands on a new release.

Nowadays, enthusiasts try their luck at purchasing shoes online — although the most popular pairs sell out within seconds. Undoubtedly, while online shopping makes the art of the hunt easier, nothing beats the feeling of walking into a shoe store, surrounded by fellow sneakerheads, to see the shoes in person. Local sneaker shoppers are fortunate that Raleigh offers several stores selling the latest styles with a uniquely customized spin.

Si rcastleteees Michael Phillips considers himself an artist first, sneaker aficionado second — so the current sneakerhead trend of customizing shoes suits him perfectly. The Broughton High School graduate has sketched shoes for as long as he can remember. “I was on the shoe wave before other people thought it was cool,” he says.

Phillips turned his hobby into a business called Sircastleteees, initially marketing his products on Instagram in 2013, then opening a store on Raleigh’s West South Street the following year. Social media made it possible for Phillips to become known worldwide, while also cultivating his relationship with the local

community. “It’s a balancing act to have an online presence while also maintaining an in-store experience,” he says.

With the help of artists Chris “DK” Batts and Ed Peebles, Phillips takes a pair of shoes and turns them into unique creations for NFL and NBA players, as well as for local university athletic programs. From hydro dipping and color-changing to hand-painting and airbrushing, customizing sneakers is the newest way sneakerheads can stay on trend and show off their personalities. For those seeking the latest drop, a vintage pair or a personalized masterpiece, Sircastleteees is a laid-back place to gather and talk kicks. Learn more at sircastleteees.com.

CHRIS “DK” BATTS MICHAEL PHILLIPS ED PEEBLES

CHRISTOPHER JUDD (LEFT), TERRY “TJ” MANGUM (RIGHT) AND DAWITT FEREW (NOT PICTURED) OWN ONE OF ONE BOUTIQUE.

O n e of On e Bo u t iqu e Terry “TJ” Mangum has been buying and selling shoes as a “side hustle” since he was a student at Middle Creek High School. Now the 20-year-old entrepreneur owns One of One Boutique, located near Shaw University, with his cousin, Christopher Judd, and friend, 86 | midtownmag.com

Dawitt Ferew. “Being so close to Shaw, we get students coming in every afternoon to check out what’s new,” Judd says. “The process of getting your hands on a pair of shoes has changed a lot since I was young, but real ‘shoe people’ still want to come and see them in person.”

Though primarily a sneaker business, One of One also welcomes local fashion designers to set up shop in the store. Athens Drive High School student Ali Rahman, for example, designs and makes reconstructed patchwork clothing under the brand name

Assembled with Caution, then sells the clothing at One of One. Giving a platform for local up-and-comers is important to Judd, who believes it only takes one helping hand to make a difference in a young person’s life. Learn more at oneofone919.com.

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The N ex t Gen erat ion: Deuce Dog g B rand At just 12 years old, Corey Kinard Jr. is an artist, designer, and business owner of custom shirt and shoe company Deuce Dogg Brand. “When the pandemic hit, I realized that I had a lot of time and wanted to

88

do something creative,” Kinard says. “I love money and art, so combining the two is great.”

Named after Corey’s nickname, “Deuce,” Deuce Dogg Brand is a testament to the young entrepreneur’s talent

and offers a glimpse of what the next generation of sneakerheads is capable of. “Shoes and art are my way of letting people know who I am,” he says. Learn more at deucedogg.com.

COREY KINARD JR., AGE 12, IS THE OWNER OF DEUCE DOG BRAND.

More Op tions for Sneaker head s

Social Status, socialstatuspgh.com – Historic City Market in downtown Raleigh Courtside, courtsidenc.com – Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh Capital Buy Sell Trade (BST), capitalbst.com – Oak Park Shopping Center in Raleigh Pro tip: Beware of buying from individual or unknown resellers, as counterfeits abound. The experts at these stores will know a real shoe from a fake one.

Sneaker head Glossar y Colorway — A combination of colors used in a particular shoe.

Retro — A shoe that has been reintroduced, sometimes with minor differences to the original.

Collab — A collaboration with a shoe brand and outside artist, designer, athlete or musician.

Deadstock — Brand-new shoes that have never been worn and are still in the box.

Undeadstock — Shoes that have been worn.

Limited Edition — Shoes produced in limited quantities, making them hard to find.

Quick Strikes — The process of grabbing a release before it sells out.

Drop/Release — When a new shoe hits the market.

Reseller — A person who buys sneakers with the sole purpose of reselling them at a profit.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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11/23/202021 1:09| PM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 91

NEW APPROACHES TO

WEIGHT LOSS IN THE TRIANGLE

I

BY ELIZABETH BRIGNAC AND BETH SHUGG

f the COVID-19 pandemic altered your eating and fitness habits, you’re not alone. American lifestyles have changed across the board. Some have become more committed to healthy living, while others have lost their routines entirely. As you decide how to approach healthy living in the new year, consider advances in technology and emerging approaches to wellness that offer more choices than ever before when it comes to weight loss and caring for your body.

Only 1% of people who might benefit from weight-loss surgery take advantage of it because surgery involves risk and lengthy recovery time, says Dr. Christopher McGowan, M.D., who opened True You Weight Loss in Cary this past September. Board-certified in internal medicine, gastroenterology and obesity medicine, McGowan says the weight-loss procedures he offers involve no incisions. Compared to weight-loss surgery patients, endoscopy patients lose almost the same amount of weight with significantly fewer complications. They also recover from endoscopic procedures more quickly. “You come in, you go home, you’re back to work in two to three days,” McGowan says.

Known as endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (ESG), the procedure was originally developed in 2012 and involves the insertion of an endoscope through a patient’s mouth so a device can suture his or her stomach to make it 70–80% smaller. A smaller stomach is satisfied with less food because it suppresses the hormone ghrelin — often called the “hunger hormone” — which kicks in when the body believes itself to be starving. This change allows the body to accept a new set point at which its caloric intake is satisfied.

“We really can produce surgical results,” McGowan says. The average weight loss after ESG is 20% of a patient’s body weight — an impressive number compared with the 1–4% long-term weight-loss results of diet and exercise alone, though dietary changes and regular exercise are essential to maintaining post-ESG weight loss.

While “It is absolutely not magic, it really can be life-altering,” McGowan says. “But it’s just a tool.” That’s why True You Weight Loss also offers diet and nutrition counseling to help clients maintain healthy, sustainable eating patterns. Prospective clients should consider that, in the long term, ESG is difficult to reverse, so those who undergo it should be reasonably sure they want such a permanent change. Also, because ESG is so new, health insurance typically doesn’t cover it.

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SURGERY-FREE OPTIONS

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iStock/Prostock-Studio

True You Weight Loss offers other endoscopic procedures to support weight loss as well, including the Orbera managed weight loss system, which was approved in the U.S. in 2015 but has been used internationally for years. This procedure involves the insertion of a silicone balloon into the stomach to take up space for six months, after which time the balloon is removed. This isn’t a long-term procedure and is best for those who are struggling with short-term weight gain. Learn more about all of these options at trueyouweightloss.com.

ALTERNATIVE DIETS

If the latest dieting fad isn’t your thing, Vitality Weight Loss & Wellness Spa in Raleigh offers some alternatives. The antiinflammatory diet emphasizes consumption of certain vegetables, nuts, seeds, healthy proteins and fats as part of a plan designed to result in weight loss while preventing or reducing lowgrade chronic inflammation.

The hormone diet combines a customized low-calorie diet with specific medical doses of natural protein hormones that help sustain lean body mass. The modified liquid diet involves a 14-day period of fasting on high protein, meal replacement drinks and a 100–200 calorie dinner, for a total consumption of 500–700 calories a day. Vitality Weight Loss & Wellness Spa also offers B12 and B complex injections, which can

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work as weight-loss supplements because they increase the activity level of those who take it. Learn more at raleighvitality.com.

Infinite30 in Raleigh offers a three-stage program that begins with a one-month “losing” stage consisting of a ketogenic homeopathic program made up of nutrient-intense, low-calorie foods. During this month-long diet, clients check in with coaches daily and choose from a menu of healthy items, while receiving tips and guidelines on portion sizes. Learn more at raleighweightloss.com.

GENETIC TESTING

Regenesis MD in Raleigh offers genetic testing to reveal whether certain inherited eating behaviors may have led to a client’s obesity.

Coupled with pharmaceutical and supplement therapy, Regenesis MD uses the test results to help clients assess and control their appetites, cravings and stress-eating behaviors.

Since not all bodies shed weight at the same pace or in the same manner, Regenesis MD also offers a peptide diet, which helps some clients safely and effectively shed up to 1 pound per day. Learn more at regenesismd.com.

HOLISTIC APPROACHES

Shannon “Shay” Miller, a certified integrative health coach and owner of WellByShay in Raleigh, explores her clients’ fitness, nutrition and sleep habits; stress levels; relationship health; work-life balance; and spirituality so she can help them grow in areas that may be holding them back. “Taking an integrative approach to weight loss through the lens of full-person care helps pinpoint which area of health is a priority to create change around first,” Miller says. “Then, they set the stage to support weight loss through healthy habit development and lifestyle changes. Weight loss is the consequence of these newly formed habits, not necessarily the immediate focus.”

Addie Claire “A.C.” Jones, a Triangle-based registered dietician and certified strength and conditioning specialist, founded The Composition Dietician. Jones starts by introducing clients to the four components that make up their total daily energy expenditure, or metabolism — basal metabolic rate, thermic effect of food, non-exercise activity thermogenesis and exercise activity thermogenesis — so they can understand how their choices and actions affect the components.

She then customizes a weight-loss approach and, when applicable, helps clients combat what she calls “years’ worth of a ‘less is better’ mentality, which is scientifically proven to impede both weight loss and weight-loss maintenance,” she says. “When folks blindly follow diets without addressing the mental and emotional motivation for their choices, they almost always gain back what they have lost, which is why we now hear so often that ‘diets don’t work.’”

Jones’ services cover food coaching, vitamins and supplements, sports nutrition and composition change, which relates to body fat percentage. Learn more at compositiondietitian.com.

Serasana, a new yoga studio and tea room in Holly Springs, integrates wellness and weight loss by combining yoga, skin care, massage and acupuncture services. “So often, we think about weight loss as punishment — ‘I can’t eat that; I have to do this’ — instead of ‘What does my body need?” owner Claudia Klavon says.

One of six studios that started in Texas, Serasana uses “yoga for everybody” as its model. “Saying you’re too stiff for yoga is like saying you’re too dirty to take a bath,” Klavon says. “No matter what shape you’re in, no matter how flexible you are, no matter whether your belly keeps you from bending over as far as you would like — yoga the way we offer yoga is still for you.”

CRYOT H E R APY AN D WE IG HT LOSS

BY BETH SHUGG Move over ice baths! There’s a new way to achieve cold thermogenesis — a process through which the body produces heat when exposed to colder environments that, in turn, helps boost metabolism. Whole-body

cryotherapy, available at CryoNC Boutique Wellness Center in Raleigh, uses cutting-edge technology and

liquid nitrogen vapor to help clients achieve cold thermogenesis, which not only boosts metabolism, burns calories and gets rid of fat cells, but also reduces inflammation and enriches blood and oxygen flow. Best of all, the process only takes three minutes and leaves clients feeling energized and refreshed.

The boutique’s owner, Garret White, says whole-body cryotherapy triggers your metabolism to spike and burn 500–800 calories after the three-minute session. Plus, he says, “studies have shown that by incorporating cryotherapy sessions three or more times per week, your metabolism will be boosted enough to burn 200 extra calories even on the days you don’t freeze.”

CryoNC Boutique Wellness Center also offers Cryo T-Shock, a thermogenic cooling process known as cryo

slimming that involves the use of thermal shock to treat undesired fat without causing any skin damage. This process, which generally takes 30–40 minutes, zaps away cellulite by destroying fat cells so they can pass

naturally through the body’s lymphatic system, leaving clients more toned and tightened in problem areas.

White says an ideal treatment plan for losing stubborn stomach fat consists of a three-minute whole-body cryotherapy session, 50-minute body contouring session, 30-minute infrared sauna session and 15- to 30-minute compression therapy session, which recreates deep-tissue massage in targeted areas to increase circulation and help your lymphatic system drain unwanted toxins.

“A lesser-known fact is in order to kill fat cells you must detoxify them first,” White says. “Our sauna uses infrared waves to detoxify the skin, soothe muscles and joints, and detoxify the body at a cellular level.” (He adds that clients can also watch Netflix during sessions.) Learn more at cryonc.com.

Additional cryotherapy options arrive in February when Joseph Pepe Sr. and Matthew Pepe open iCRYO Recovery & Wellness in North Hills. The facility will offer whole-body cryotherapy, body sculpting, compression therapy, cryotherapy facials, infrared sauna sessions, IV infusion, vitamin shots and other services. Learn more

iStock/imamember

iStock/Prostock-Studio

at icryo.com/location/raleigh.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION

Current Wellness in Raleigh is a fitness center following the emerging Health at Every Size (HAES) movement. HAES practitioners ask clients to approach their bodies with respect — regardless of size — and these principles guide the programming at Current Wellness, where all practitioners share an inclusive approach to what they do. “People are built differently based on their genetics — based on the resources they have — so we want to encourage and honor bodies being diverse in shapes and sizes,” says co-owner Brit Guerin.

Instead of focusing on body size, Current Wellness practitioners encourage clients to adopt behaviors that help their bodies feel strong and function well.

Classes cover interval training, strength training, yoga and dance movement at varying levels of intensity. The center also houses personal trainers, physical therapists, mental health therapists, wellness coaches and food managers.

Regardless of which weight loss approach you take, all of these programs, centers and specialists understand that listening to the body and responding to its needs is central to maintaining a healthy weight and living a robust life.

Current Wellness in Raleigh embraces economic as well as physical

UNLEASH YOUR INNER SIX PACK.

diversity with its Pay it Forward program, through which anyone interested can donate money toward supporting others in gaining access to movement classes and health specialists. The center also offers one free movement class per week for anyone who wants to join. Learn more at currentwellnessraleigh.com/ wellness-pay-it-forward-fund-raleigh.

ASK US TODAY IF VASER IS RIGHT FOR YOU. Call Dr. Glenn Lyle to inquire!

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Q&A W E L L N E S S

HEALTH AND WELLNESS EXPERTS SHARE ANSWERS AND

ADVICE ABOUT THE LATEST INDUSTRY BREAKTHROUGHS, S E RV I C E S , T E C H N I Q U E S A N D T E C H N O LO G I E S TO H E L P

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HOW HAVE ADVANCES IN SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY REDUCED INVASIVENESS AND RECOVERY TIME?

By Lars Gardner, D.O. Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic has been here since 1954 because of our patients. We are here because of the strength they have shown and the trust they have given to us for over 65 years. We are here because caring for people and providing an atmosphere that continually leads to life-changing medical results is what we live for.

But as we move into this new decade, want to inform our community that we continue to evolve in ways that we feel are not only important for our patients, but critical in providing the absolute best care.

Advancing Technology Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic was not only the first team in the Triangle to embrace navigation and robotics in cranial and spinal surgery, but we continue to be one of the only groups in this area to use these critically important technologies. By using devices such as ExcelsisusGPS® from Globus Medical (the most advanced neurosurgical robot in America) and ARTIS icono from Siemens (the latest imaging device for intravascular procedures), we can continue to provide the most advanced and accurate surgical techniques for our patients. When working around the nerves and brain tissue that drive the way we all live and move, Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic surgeons demand the greatest precision and control available— and feel strongly that our patients deserve it as well.

Minimally Invasive Techniques While we at Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic understand that many cranial and spinal cases need a more traditional “open technique,” when a procedure can be done in a minimally invasive way, we do it. No group has more surgeons who are committed to advancing their less invasive techniques in order improve their patient’s outcomes. Minimally invasive procedures cause less deep tissue disruption and minimize muscle dissection, while accomplishing the same goals as older, more invasive techniques. Using intraoperative imaging, robotics and specialized retractors, more of our patients are going home the same day—or with very short hospital stays— than ever before.

Boutique Care Our commitment to individualized care is unlike any surgical group in Raleigh. Each physician at Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic has his or her own administrative assistant, physician assistant and insurance authorization specialist. No general schedulers. No automated phone systems blocking you from real people. No being transferred three times and waiting over 30 minutes just to talk to someone helpful. We do not only strive to provide care better than academic centers, but also provide the ease and personalization of a boutique medical clinic.

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WELLNESS Q&A |

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WELLNESS Q&A | S P E C I A L A D V E R T I S I N G S E C T I O N R A L E I G H N E U R O S U R G I C A L C L I N I C | WELLNESS Q&A

Raleigh Neurosurgical providers, left to right: Brandon Burnsed, M.D., Russell Margraf, M.D., Ph.D., Andrey Belayev, M.D., Takanori Fukushima, M.D., Robert Allen, M.D., Laith Khoury, M.D., Timothy Garner, M.D., Kenneth Rich, M.D., and Lars Gardner, D.O.

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CA O RMOP LAI N N YA NB A RM A IEN | CW EN E LTLENRE S |S W Q& E LAL N E S S Q & A

CONCUSSION MIGRAINE

VERTIGO

FIBROMYALGIA

INFERTILITY

ANXIETY

FLOATY DOUBLE VISION

ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM A

COMPLEX MEDICAL ISSUE? Darcy D. Dane MDiv, DC, DACNB, Owner of Carolina Brain Center

BRAIN FOG

Many times, our new patients come to us frustrated with the health care they have received in the past. They feel discouraged about getting limited to no results, no clear diagnosis, no discussion of root causes, no help with lifestyle or diet, and short, dismissive office visits.

The human body and all of its systems work together.

The effectiveness of Carolina Brain Center’s treatments can be attributed to Dr. Dane’s emphasis on whole-body health and healing, combined with her advanced training in neurology and functional medicine.

People are not cookies, so cookie-cutter approaches simply do not work. Just running lab work and other diagnostics are not enough. Dr. Dane excels at synthesizing information obtained from laboratory and diagnostic studies. She then applies principles of treatment to create specific protocols for the restoration of health in her patients.

Our reviews speak volumes. Carolina Brain Center is a caring, comfortable place to land when facing what seems to be an impossible health issue. With 20 years of experience, Dr. Dane is known for her knowledge, for being a straight shooter and for being a results-driven physician. She receives referrals from all over the Triangle and world.

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N& A A T O |T ASLP E WCEI LALLN A ED S SV E |R T WI ESLI LNNGE SSSEQ W E L LCNAER SOSL IQ C& TA ION

Winter can be a difficult time for children with atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema. Itchy skin can lead to distraction in the classroom and disruption from restorative sleep. While medications and topical therapies can temporarily reduce symptoms, a functional medicine approach to skin health can provide long-lasting results without harmful side effects.

HOW CAN I CARE FOR MY CHILD’S

Here are some tips to improve the health of your child’s skin and help you investigate what’s causing it.

DURING THE WINTER?

ECZEMA

• Make sure bath water is lukewarm, and keep bathing times to 10 minutes or less. Pat skin dry and apply a thick moisturizer.

• Avoid using moisturizers containing irritants like alcohol, fragrance and preservatives. Ointment and cream options are superior to lotions.

• Offer nutrient support with vitamins A and D, zinc and omega 3, and use topical and oral probiotics to help balance microbes and limit overgrowth of staph bacteria and yeast candida.

Blair Cuneo, PA-C Physician Assistant at Carolina Total Wellness

• Avoid environmental triggers such as dust mites, pet dander and pollen, and food allergies or sensitivities that can trigger immune systems to release histamine.

With personalized approaches to inflammatory conditions like eczema, Carolina Total Wellness can help you discover the root cause and contributors to your child’s eczema, and together we can restore your child’s healthy skin all year long!

your partner in health

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NEW LIFE AESTHETICS | WELLNESS Q&A

WHAT OPTIONS DO I NEED TO CONSIDER FOR TREATING MY

SUN-DAMAGED SKIN?

Meredith Harris Nurse Practitioner and Owner, New Life Aesthetics

New Life Aesthetics

The sun may have brought you great joy in your youth, but now, standing in front of the mirror, you are seeing wrinkles, discoloration, red patches and thinning skin. Seeking treatment for sun-damaged, aging skin begins with finding a licensed medical provider who specializes in anti-aging medicine.

Meredith Harris, a women’s health nurse practitioner and skin care specialist, has been treating sun-damaged skin since 2008. It is her passion to educate and customize effective individualized treatment plans for her guests. Treatment begins with a unique home-care regimen. Medical-grade ingredients can be potent transformers and protectors of your skin, and are only available through a licensed provider. Once the skin is preconditioned at home, energy-based devices—including lasers, pulsed light, infrared, radiofrequency, ultrasound and other forms of heat—can be delivered into the skin to yield a fresh glow and firmer skin. The depth of your skin concerns, as well as your individual skin type, are considered extensively when customizing a treatment regimen.

Meredith Harris is a national educator, trainer, thought-leader and practice owner of New Life Aesthetics. She provides an in-depth consultation, practical plan for healthier skin and delivery of optimal treatment outcomes.

5816 Creedmoor Road, Suite 103B, Raleigh, NC 27612 | 919.521.8282 | newlifeaesthetics.com 102 | midtownmag.com

HELP WITH MY STRESS? Sarah Coates, LCMHC

As we navigate our “new normal,” we will continue to offer both in-person and telehealth visits. From the comfort of anywhere, you can connect with your therapist via a HIPAA-compliant, secure video. Many clients find that they enjoy the option for telehealth if coming into an office setting is not right for them.

You can find much more information about the services we offer, provider profiles and insurance information at one-eightycounseling.com. We look forward to helping you care for your mental health!

L o c a t i o n s i n A p e x , C a r y , G a r n e r, H o l l y S p r i n g s a n d R a l e i g h | o n e - e i g h t y c o u n s e l i n g . c o m JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

| WELLNESS Q&A

We understand that reducing stress is key to living optimally. With so much uncertainty about navigating these unprecedented times, it’s hard to completely avoid stressors.

Some helpful ways you can manage your stress include practicing mindfulness, taking time to breathe in fresh air, walking in the sunshine, laughing with a friend, journaling, engaging in expressive arts and exercising. Therapists at our practice can help you find many more healthy ways to manage stress.

CAN COUNSELING

WELLNESS Q&A |

ONE-EIGHTY COUNSELING

You’ve made it through a tough year. As we enter 2021, it’s even more important to pay special attention to the care of your mental health. At One-Eighty Counseling we are passionate about helping you take care of your mental health.

SPECIALISTS IN PLASTIC SURGERY | WELLNESS Q&A

BODY CONTOURING HOW CAN

HELP AFTER WEIGHT LOSS? Dr. Sanjay Daluvoy, Dr. Richard Carlino & Dr. Matthew Blanton, Board-certified Plastic Surgeons at Specialists in Plastic Surgery

Weight loss is a challenging endeavor that is rewarded with a healthier lifestyle and tighter, toned body. At times, however, this positive feat can create loose and floppy skin with no elasticity, or ability to snap back. This causes extra skin to hang in certain areas—the arms, abdomen or inner thighs, for example—and may cause skin breakdown or rashes.

For women, breasts can become deflated and lose shape and volume. Excess skin can also bounce and rub together, hindering certain physical activities. To top it off, the person may still need to wear the same size clothing he or she wore prior to losing weight. The exhilaration and excitement of watching the “# of pounds” trend down gets replaced with frustration and disappointment.

Specialists in Plastic Surgery’s body contouring experts can help address the problem of excess skin with precision and meticulous technique by performing surgery to tailor the loose skin and create a tighter, more toned body. Contact us today to tell us your story!

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Contrary to popular belief, dry eye disease is not only an older adult issue.

In fact, it’s the No. 1 vision disease in the U.S. across all age groups due to our increasing use of digital devices, which disrupts the normal blinking pattern.

If blinks are incomplete or infrequent, the surface of our eyes suffer, leading to vision impairment and eye discomfort.

“Eye dryness” is only one of the many symptoms one might experience. The right questions can mean a proper diagnosis is made and treatment can begin sooner.

Susan Watson, M.D., FACS Watson Dry Eye Center

Four questions to ask are: • Do your eyes ever feel dry or uncomfortable?

• Are you bothered by changes in your vision throughout the day?

• Are you ever bothered by red eyes?

• Do you ever use or feel the urge to use eye drops?

A “yes” answer to any of these prompts evaluation and diagnostic testing.

Early awareness of the presence of Dry Eye Disease, education regarding lifestyle influences and adherence to treatment recommendations can have a positive, lifelong impact on vision health.

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

| WELLNESS Q&A

DRY EYE DISEASE?

WELLNESS Q&A |

WATSON DRY EYE CENTER

HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE

BREYTA PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

JOY AND FULFILLMENT INTO MY LIFE?

Whether you’re wondering about how to work through troubles from your past or how to enhance your well-being in the future, the key to thriving and living your best life can be found by starting therapy.

Partnering with one of our skilled psychologists on your path to wellness ensures you will meet your goals and successfully enact the change you envision. We provide innovative, evidence-based therapy tailored to you. We help you live better—not just feel better—by guiding you on the path to lasting, meaningful change. Contact us to get started today with convenient online appointments.

INTEGRATIVE HEALING

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| WELLNESS Q&A

WHAT IS

HYPNOSIS AND HOW CAN IT HELP ME?

Q: What is hypnosis, and can everyone be hypnotized?

A: Hypnosis is a natural state! We all go in and out of it every day while watching TV or scrolling through social media.

Q: How can hypnosis help me?

Carolyn J. Sheeha, Owner, Integrative Healing

A: Hypnosis is a very powerful tool that allows YOU to improve your life very quickly in areas such as stress, fears, smoking cessation, sports performance, weight management and more.

Q: Can someone else control me with hypnosis?

A: Only in old Hollywood movies!

We provide virtual or in-person sessions.

6801 Pleasant Pines Drive, Suite 101, Raleigh, NC 27612 | 919.696.5264 | integrativehealinginc.com 106 | midtownmag.com

| WELLNESS Q&A

|

Vanessa Roddenberry, Ph.D., HSP-P, Licensed Psychologist & Founder, Breyta Psychological Services

BREYTA PSYCHOLOGICAL SERVICES

HOW DO I BRING MORE

SHOULD I CONSIDER

R&R SPA

A VAGINAL TIGHTENING

| WELLNESS Q&A

PROCEDURE?

As women go through the process of aging and childbirth, they may experience changes in their genitalia related to stress urinary incontinence, vaginal laxity, vaginal lubrication loss, labia majora tone loss, stretching of the labia minora and decrease in sensation.

Historically, surgical vaginal tightening procedures have been performed for repairs after obstetrical delivery, rather than for sexual or aesthetic concerns. These treatments are now becoming more and more common as women become more comfortable discussing their concerns.

Rubee Matos Owner, R&R Spa

In addition to non-invasive vaginal tightening procedures, R&R Spa also offers Brazilian waxes, Vajafacials, Yoni steams, labia microneedling, intimate bleaching and more. Visit us to learn more.

4701 Creedmoor Road #109, Raleigh, NC 27612 | 919.307.7661 | rrspanc.com

HOME EDITION MARCH/APRIL 2021

Two special advertising sections:

HOME & GARDEN

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Showcase your new developments and builds, design professionals and winning landscapes in our Home and Garden

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iStocl/fizkes

Taking Care

of Yourself

BY ELIZABETH KANE

108 | midtownmag.com

While you’re caring for everyone else

Indulge.

murphy & daughters bath salts, soaps & hand creams

nofo @ the pig | 2014 fairview road | 919.821.1240 | www.nofo.com

E

ven during non-pandemic times, those of us who are caretakers help everyone we love, do (or try to do) all the right things and strive to be there for those who need us. But somewhere along the way, in the throes of exhaustion, we realize we may have left an essential something— or more importantly, someone—out of this equation: ourselves.

If you’re struggling to find more, or better, ways to care for yourself, these experts can guide you toward a healthier perspective with a fresh set of coping tools.

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“People know what their self-care is. They just feel guilty asking for it.” iStocl/Household Fixture

FIND BAL ANCE AND BOUNDAR IE S

“I think all of us—with COVID especially— have lost our balance,” says Dr. Mona Gupta, a psychiatrist, osteopathic physician and founder of Gupta Psychiatry, located in Raleigh and Apex. “We’re all striving for balance [in our lives], but once you get balance, you have to strive for it again.”

For many of us, balance can be difficult to obtain. “I think a lot of my patients are working double or triple the amount [than before the pandemic], or they don’t have a job. There’s no happy medium,” she says.

To achieve balance, we may have to create stronger boundaries. And to do that, we have to understand what we truly need, says Lori D’Elia, a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of D’Elia Family Solutions Counseling & Coaching in Raleigh.

D’Elia says effective communication is “your No. 1 tool” for helping others understand what you need so you can create boundaries that fit with your life. For example, if you’re working from home, that may mean “strategizing with your significant other ... your boss ... and your kids, and letting them know what they can expect from you now,” she says.

And if how you’re working isn’t right for you—or your family—anymore, Gupta advises speaking up and communicating with your boss. That may mean compromising, explaining your expectations and working together toward a solution that might work better for everyone. Although it may be an uncomfortable conversation, it’s worth having.

Licensed clinical mental health counselor Sarah Coates, who is the founder and owner of One-Eighty Counseling, which has offices in Raleigh, Cary, Garner, Holly Springs and Apex, says boundaries aren’t just there to protect ourselves; they’re there to protect 110 | midtownmag.com

— Lori D’Elia, founder of D’Elia Family Solutions

Counseling & Coaching

others as well. “Boundaries are healthy. You can’t say ‘yes’ all the time,” Coates says. She tells her clients to remember this: “‘No’ is a full and complete sentence.’”

PRIORITIZE YOUR HEALTH TO ALLEVI ATE STRESS AND ANXIET Y

Positive social connection isn’t just desirable to us—it’s necessary for good health. According to Dr. Jignasa Sachar, D.O., a functional medicine physician with FoundationMED in Raleigh, “There’s considerable evidence from studies that have shown that social isolation increases proinflammatory activity.” She says it’s important to keep up with our social connections, and “take action steps” to connect in a positive way with others. “It doesn’t have to be live [and in person], although that’s preferred,” she says. “As long as you’re connecting, even if it’s a Zoom call.”

Keep your anxiety and stress levels low, and improve your moods, by paying attention to what you’re eating and how you’re breathing, Sachar advises. For example, you may be snacking all day if you’re homebound due to the pandemic.

However, this habit “can mess with your blood sugar levels,” Sarchar says. “When your blood sugar levels are not even throughout the day, that can contribute to anxiety.”

When we’re anxious, our breathing becomes shallow, which can worsen our anxiety. “Diaphragmatic breathing helps with anxiety,” she says. You can use this deep breathing technique, commonly known as “belly breathing,” when you feel yourself becoming stressed. Simply place your hand on your stomach and feel your stomach come out as you inhale. Breathing this way sends a message to your parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” system) to calm

and relax your body, counteracting your sympathetic nervous system—aka, the “fight, flight or freeze” system.

LET GO OF PERFECTIONISM AND GUILT

In an attempt to hold on to some semblance of normalcy during the pandemic, some of us may have held on too tightly to a rigid schedule as a coping mechanism. However, this can backfire by creating a negative effect on our lives, instead of a positive one. “You’re going to get stressed if you keep trying to do things as you did before the pandemic,” D’Elia says.

Focus on self-care, which looks different for different people, D’Elia says. Find out what it means to you, then make it a priority to follow through with it. “People know what their self-care is,” she says. “They just feel guilty asking for it.”

When it comes to letting go of perfectionism and embracing self-compassion, many of these experts expressed a common theme: Stop comparing yourself to others, and be careful how you use social media. “I very much believe ‘comparison is the thief of joy,’” Coates says. “So, if you’re constantly comparing yourself to what other people are doing, you’ll lose sight of the joy that’s happening in your own life. … You cannot compare yourself to anything on social media because it’s all mostly edited and Photoshopped.” She adds that despite the perfect pictures people present, everyone has struggles—they’re just not expressing theirs.

And if you’re having trouble showing vulnerability, turn to your trusted circle of family and friends—instead of social media— for validation.

Although demands seem to have grown heavier during the past year, Gupta advises using this time for self-reflection.

iStocl/insta_photos

“This should be like the restart,” she says. “We really need to take a fresh look at our priorities and say, ‘What are we doing with our coworkers? What are we doing with our families?

What’s important to us?’” Perhaps a restart is just what we need to answer those questions.

Don’t live another day in pain.

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LOCAL LABYRINTHS

TAKE THE PATH TO WELL-BEING B Y C H E RY L C A PA L D O T R AY L O R

W

elcome to 2021. By now, we are well aware of the detrimental effects of stress on our minds and bodies.

Worrying about events from the past and uncertainty about the future makes it difficult to stay grounded in the present. Constant overthinking and overdoing creates mental and physical stress, which can contribute to health conditions like heart disease, gastrointestinal problems and depression.

There are numerous methods to calm overactive minds and bodies including yoga, exercise, massage and meditation. Labyrinths, a lesser-known healing tool, are also proving helpful for anxious individuals by offering them a chance to slow down, take time for self-reflection, and release tensions and expectations that keep them running on the hamster

Transitions LifeCare

wheel of fast-paced lifestyles.

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114 | midtownmag.com Transitions LifeCare

Brian Mullins

Brian Mullins

Brian Mullins

1 2

3 4

5

6

Brian Mullins

Brian Mullins

The timeless practice of walking labyrinths is not new; their history goes back over 4,000 years and is mentioned in writings by Herodotus, Pliny the Elder and Shakespeare. Found in many religions and cultures, labyrinths were used to simulate the sacred tradition of spiritual pilgrimage, according to some historians. The most well-known labyrinth is in Chartres Cathedral in France. Built in the early 1200s, pilgrims from around the globe still come to walk its winding path. Fortunately for those of us in the U.S., labyrinths have been experiencing a resurgence here during the past couple of decades.

Rev. Mac Schafer, pastor at Hudson Memorial Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, says labyrinths remind us that even when we feel we are losing our way in life, we can always keep going. Schafer discovered labyrinths in the late 1990s while a student at Princeton Theological Seminary. After walking a canvas labyrinth, he became mesmerized, and labyrinths have been his passion since. “Walking a labyrinth slows people down and changes their pace,” he says. “It’s helpful for people accessing transitions in their lives and dealing with sickness, depression, sadness and grief.”

BENEFITS

Those new to the practice are often given the suggestion to think about a labyrinth walk as having three parts, known as the three Rs. While walking toward the center, Release tension and anxieties. When you arrive in the center, pause to Receive whatever insight comes to you. That may be spiritual guidance, clarity or peace of mind. On your Return back to the world of work, family and responsibilities, carry out with you the well-being created during your walk.

Although there is no record of the number of people who walk Hudson Memorial’s labyrinth, Schafer says there have been plenty of visitors during the long months of the pandemic. He says it has become a quiet place for meditation, even for those not affiliated with the church, and that makes him happy.

He suggests not placing expectations on your walk. “Sometimes it can be an extraordinarily revealing and transformative spiritual experience,” he says. “But some days a walk on the labyrinth is just a nice walk.”

Still found in many churches, labyrinths are also becoming increasingly popular in public parks, prisons, schools and health care facilities. Both Duke Hospital and UNC Hospitals incorporate labyrinths into their settings to provide patients, visitors and staff a place to walk, meditate and pray.

Rev. Dr. Randy Hall, associate director for clinical pastoral education at UNC Hospitals, says the labyrinth located just outside the N.C. Cancer Hospital provides a quiet space for patients and families dealing with the emotional and spiritual healing that is needed when coping with crisis, illness and death. “The staff that use the labyrinth seem to appreciate the space to be intentional in their reflection for coping with the day-to-day stress of being a care provider,” he says.

Labyrinths are not only useful spiritually, but are also beneficial to mental health and overall well-being. Studies have been performed, but the effects are often hard to quantify. After walking, participants report feeling calmer, noticing the colors and fragrances around them, and having a sense that time slowed down. Walkers also describe greater clarity, awareness and relaxation that is similar to other mind-body practices. But there is something unique to labyrinths in the way they closely relate to the human experience.

It’s important to understand that a labyrinth is not a maze, nor is it a puzzle designed to trick the walker into arriving at dead ends. There is only one path into the labyrinth, which is also the same path out. Just when you think you’ve arrived at the center, the next turn finds you at the furthest point away and back near the beginning. The twists and turns are a metaphor for the curvy, unpredictable way of life’s journey.

THE WALK

L

LO C A L L A BY R I N T H S CARY

1 Cary Presbyterian Church 614 Griffis Street, Cary 2 St. Francis United Methodist Church 2965 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary R AL E I G H Fairmont United Methodist Church (not pictured) 2501 Clark Avenue, Raleigh

3 Hudson Memorial Presbyterian Church 4921 Six Forks Road, Raleigh 4 Millbrook Baptist Church

1519 E. Millbrook Road, Raleigh

5 St. Michael’s Episcopal Church 1520 Canterbury Road, Raleigh 6 Transitions LifeCare 250 Hospice Circle, Raleigh (park and access is behind the sanctuary)

THE QUEST

Although some may approach labyrinths with skepticism, there’s not much risk involved with trying the practice. If there’s a chance that meandering a path of concentric circles can offer peace, clarity and a sense of well-being, it’s worth slowing down long enough to find out.

The Labyrinth Society website states there are 158 registered labyrinths in North Carolina, but labyrinth enthusiasts know there are far more. Some locations are kept secret, known only by word of mouth, or stumbled upon by accident.

“The quest to find hidden labyrinths is all part of the fun,” Schafer says.

Learn more at labyrinthsociety.org.

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DEPARTMENTS |

WELLNESS

|

CANDID CONVERSATION

|

MUSIC

|

SPORTS

Carolina Hurricanes

CHEF'S TABLE

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D E PA R T M E N T S C H E F ' S TA B L E

JOSE SONS AND

Mexican meets Southern cuisine— and culture

Brian Mullins

BY ELLIOT ACOSTA

118 | midtownmag.com

he pandemic’s devastation on the restaurant industry is apparent in the Triangle.

Restaurants that have closed up shop range from national chains to mom and pop establishments— from long-standing institutions to promising new restaurants robbed from ever reaching their full potential. In June, it appeared that downtown Raleigh eatery Jose and Sons might be counted among the lost. But through the determination of co-owner Charlie Ibarra, chef Oscar Diaz and the Jose and Sons’ team, the restaurant opened its doors to a new location and second chance this past December.

BORN AND BRED FOR IT

Brian Mullins

Charlie Ibarra came to Raleigh as a child when his father, Jose Ibarra, moved the family to North Carolina for the purpose of entering the hospitality industry with his siblings. In 1993, Jose opened the beloved El Rodeo on Hillsborough Street. It was there that his son, Charlie, caught a glimpse of the hard work that goes into running a restaurant.

Eventually, El Rodeo expanded into multiple locations throughout the Triangle and established the Ibarra family’s status in Raleigh’s culinary community.

In 2013, Charlie set out into the industry by teaming up with Diaz to open Jose and Sons in an inherited Warehouse District space that had hosted the Ibarra family’s version of the modern Mexican restaurant. Charlie and team transformed its sleek and modern aesthetics into a whimsical and lively celebration of two cuisine styles that define his and Diaz’s identity: Mexican and Southern. “Chef Oscar had been playing with dishes that merged his discovery of Southern staples, like grits and collard greens, with

Mexican flavors we both grew up with,” Ibarra says.

The menu turned heads with its array of fusion dishes like waffles and chicharrones, shrimp and grits, and mac and queso. “I fell in love with the idea of celebrating our Mexican roots and local Southern twang,” Ibarra says.

Jose and Sons became a fixture of the Warehouse District, overseeing its maturation and dramatic growth throughout the area’s eight-year tenure. Then 2020 happened.

After numerous attempts—and failed negotiations with his landlord—to keep Jose and Sons in its original location, Ibarra was forced to close the restaurant in June. But he felt it was too important to the community to permanently close. “Jose and Sons is a concept that [I think] is so befitting of the times our state and region are living in, that I couldn’t see it not existing in some capacity,” he says, adding that it represents the modern South—a region that continues to experience demographic and cultural changes.

“Our state and region has experienced a lot of migration over the past few decades, and now has a broad spectrum of people adding more and more color and flavor to this collective pot of stew,” he says.

“I personally love seeing customers come in and identify with our joy in playing a country song back-toback with Mexican Banda.”

What could have been the final chapter in the story of Jose and Sons is now an extension of the Ibarra family’s legacy and impact on Raleigh’s culinary scene. After Charlie had to close Jose and Sons, Jose approached Charlie with the idea of moving it to a second El Rodeo location off of Glenwood Avenue in The Village at Jose and Sons

T

Townridge. Ibarra accepted the proposition, which will continue his family’s 25-year residency at that location.

WHAT’S OLD IS NEW This new, reinvented version of Jose and Sons will feature many of the same dishes and cocktails that made the restaurant popular in downtown Raleigh—like the brisket barbacoa. But Ibarra and Diaz have introduced a litany of novel creations in celebration of their Glenwood Avenue digs. “We are very excited to debut new items like a Pimento Queso Dip, Carolina Mango Reaper Chicken Wings, and a traditional Goat Birria that pays homage to our roots in Jalisco,” Ibarra says.

Although Glenwood Avenue evokes a different atmosphere than the bustle of downtown Raleigh, Ibarra feels Jose and Sons will fit right into its new community. He views this as the next evolution of his family’s 25-year presence in the area. “With us having 25 years at this location, we certainly feel like a part of the neighborhood here on this side of town,” he says. “It’s a buzzy side of Glenwood Avenue that can be forgotten about sometimes, but we are just a hop and skip away from Crabtree [Valley] Mall, Brier Creek and all the residences around Millbrook Road. So there’s a very strong residential presence that we’re excited to serve with the same hospitality and joy my folks have done since ’95.”

View the new menu, including takeout options, at joseandsons.com.

Jose and Sons is known for fresh fruit cocktails.

Check out the restaurant's skinny margarita recipe on the next page.

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KI-GUABANA SKINNY M A R G A R I TA

INGREDIENTS

1½ ounces of silver tequila (Jose and Sons uses Hornitos Blanco Tequila)

1 ounce of Soursop guanábana juice (available at your local international market) ¼ fresh kiwi 1½ ounces of lime juice 1 ounce of agave nectar

Muddle the kiwi to release its juices and add all remaining ingredients.

Top with fresh ice and give it a quick shake or tumble between two glasses, back and forth. Strain the cocktail into a glass with fresh ice and top with fresh kiwi for garnish .

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Jose and Sons

DIRECTIONS

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

NOT W YOUR MAMA’S

hen you think of vitamins, the image of chalky Flinstone character– shaped treats from your Generation X or millennial childhood may come to mind.

Supplements add nutritional value to your diet and may include minerals, herbs or fiber, in addition to vitamins.

It makes sense to take a holistic approach to disease

in Raleigh and New York City, agrees. “This is my 16th year in practice and there are more people taking vitamins and supplements than there were 16 years ago,” he says.

Or maybe you envision a gummy clump at the bottom of a jar, moving as one big mass to the opening after several harsh taps on the container.

While you can still take these kinds of vitamins, there have been significant transformations in the technology of vitamin and supplement delivery, making absorption easier and more efficient, and providing higher doses for the body.

While vitamins are also supplements, Dr. Susan Denny, M.D., M.P.H., of Carolina Total Wellness in Raleigh points out that not all supplements are vitamins.

prevention and treatment by integrating vitamins with nutritional fluids, antioxidants, probiotics, amino acids, Omega-3 and other supplements.

“People have decided through personal experience that these things show them benefit, so they’re driving conventional medicine to take a harder look—not just for health prevention, but also for treatment options,” Denny says.

Dr. Ankur Prakash, D.C., founder and chiropractor at Living Well Balanced Integrative Medical Centers

The average patient does research before coming into his or her doctor’s office and knows what to ask for, Prakash says, adding that patients are starting vitamin and supplement regimes to boost immune resistance and create a healthy baseline.

Patients strive to fill in the gaps they feel conventional medicine has left open. No longer are they waiting to get sick, then seeing a doctor for treatment. They’re actively working to prevent illnesses, Denny says, noting that many of her patients take vitamins and supplements to obtain

MULTIVITAMIN ADVANCES IN SUPPLEMENT T E C H N O LO GY IMPROVE C O N C E N T R AT I O N AND ABSORPTION O F V I TA M I N S

BY KAT HARDING

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One of the most exciting advances in vitamin and supplement technology is that they can now be delivered intravenously.

While IV supplement delivery has become a popular choice in party cities like Las Vegas and New York for initiating a rapid hangover recovery, it offers much more. IV delivery makes it possible for supplements to skip the gastrointestinal tract and go straight into the bloodstream, often in greater concentrations and with higher levels of absorption.

When vitamins and supplements bypass the gastrointestinal tract, any related nausea is avoided and patients benefit almost instantaneously, since they don’t have to wait for their bodies to break down

to your doctor. He or she can run baseline bloodwork and panels to pinpoint your needs and monitor your progress as you incorporate them into your health care routine.

Whether you’re looking for a one-time hangover cure or a monthly IV, vitamins and supplements can play an integrated role in helping you obtain optimal wellness.

iStock/YakobchukOlena

INTRAVENOUS DELIVERY

and digest the vitamins and supplements.

Prakash says his patients come in for IV infusions weekly, monthly or as needed. “Nothing in our approach is cookie-cutter— everything is customizable to the person,” he says, adding that a patient’s medical history, labs, lifestyle and goals help determine what vitamins and supplements he or she needs.

Like all nutritional and medical needs, vitamin and supplement needs change as people age. Denny compares the human body to a machine that, while still running, might need a little maintenance. Supplement routines are uniquely customizable, from IV cocktails containing very specific ingredients, to over-the-counter routines available at drugstores— which, themselves, have come a long way.

Interested in adding vitamins and supplements to your routine? Start by talking

iStock/kerdkanno

energy boosts, and to prevent and treat afflictions ranging from anxiety to cardiovascular concerns.

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D E PA R T M E N T S C A N D I D C O N V E R S AT I O N

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RUNNING TOWARD

CONFIDENCE

Katie Todd’s work with Girls on the Run helps build up local young women

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

PHOTOS BY TY VAN DE ZANDE

K

atie Todd was never crazy about running as a kid. As an adult, however, she helps kids get a leg up when they set their feet in motion. Todd is a

volunteer for Girls on the Run of the Triangle, a physical activity–based youth development program. She serves as the organization’s president of the board of directors, and was recently recognized by the national organization via its Remarkable Volunteer Award.

Todd, who also works at Cary Academy as the fund director, joined Girls on the Run in 2019 and immediately embarked on a fundraising campaign that brought in more than $60,000. The nonprofit covers Wake, Durham, Orange, Chatham and Johnston counties, and has served more than 19,000 girls since its inception in 2000. Each eight-week curriculum promotes confidence through accomplishments while helping participants establish health and fitness routines, and ends with the girls running a 5K. They learn specific skills and strategies to manage emotions, help others, make intentional decisions and resolve conflicts. Volunteer coaches are certified through a national training program. We spoke with Todd about her work with the organization, and her life in North Carolina.

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You moved to North Carolina from Arizona. How did that come about?

I came out to North Carolina through Teach for America 13 years ago. I had never been here. I wanted to live somewhere radically different. I fell in love with the state as soon as I got here because I’m a very outdoorsy person, [with] being able to get to the ocean in two hours, the mountains in three hours. I grew up without ever knowing what fall was.

Are you an avid runner?

I was not a runner growing up. In fact, I despised running. My sport was tennis, and I was a band kid. When I was going through my training for Teach For America, I was playing soccer on the artificial turf. I kicked the ball, planted my leg and I heard a pop. I tore my meniscus behind my left knee. While I was going through physical therapy, I got on the treadmill and I jogged maybe a quarter of a mile. I signed up for a 5K about five or six months later. I’ve always been a very competitive person, and what I appreciate about running is it’s my time of meditation. It’s a time to listen to the world. I fell in love with running. It’s a gift North Carolina brought me. I’ve run a variety of races; I’ve done a few marathons.

What attracted you to Girls on the Run?

I love the idea of girl empowerment. I wish Girls on the Run existed when I was in third to fifth grade. Third grade was really hard for me. In school, I would go to the nurse’s office a lot. I was really struggling. I was a pretty bright kid, but being smart didn’t make you popular. I felt kind of alone and I didn’t always know how to navigate friendships. When I learned about the Girls on the Run program, I felt like I could relate to some of the challenges.

There is no other mission that could be more fitting.

Why does the programming revolve around running?

We sometimes get mistaken for being a running program. Really, running is a mechanism we have integrated into the program delivery. Oftentimes, our girls will forget about the running because they will be so engaged in the conversation or the activity. The beauty of having that 5K be the culmination is knowing they have completed something that many adults haven’t— part of that confidence boost. We 126 | midtownmag.com

certainly hope it sparks an interest in running, or another independent sport or team activity.

Where do the Girls on the Run programs take place?

Predominantly in school settings—public, private, independent. We have been on the trajectory to host more at parks, and we hope to form partnerships with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America or the YMCA, where we know girls within our age ranges are going for programming. Those are not finalized, but they are part of what we know will be most beneficial to our girls and their families.

How do you target your audience?

Through a variety of channels. Certainly our site coordinators—whether it’s at a school or community-based site, in conjunction with our coaches—will participate in the recruitment process. We also work through schools, community groups, educators, parents of past participants; we are open for all girls. But we recognize there may be seasons of life where some girls especially need to have access to Girls on the Run, so we do offer scholarships on a scale. We don’t want

finances to be a barrier to program participation.

I can imagine the skills and selfawareness the girls learn are part of their foundation as they grow toward adulthood. Do you get any feedback from past participants?

Girls on the Run has evidence of how this curriculum has positive benefits for our girls much further into their lives than we assumed. We have a lot of alumna who come back—women in their 30s. It often manifests in greater confidence—healthier relationships with not only friends and peers, but with themselves. That has so many secondary benefits, whether it’s their careers or their academic pursuits, mental and emotional health, romantic relationships—it’s really powerful.

What are your responsibilities with the organization?

On the board, we try to remain aware of whether our program is reflecting what is happening through the broader society.

We look at our programming through a race equity lens, other forms of accessibility, girls who are differentlyabled, girls who are coming from different cultures or faith-based backgrounds.

Part of the goal is to diversify the racial and ethnic makeup of both our program participants and our coaches. We want to be, at a minimum, reflective of Durham, Orange and Wake counties. We’ve been doing data gathering and we will be making changes in recruitment, training, racial equity training for the board and staff, and thinking [about] how that extends to coaches.

Our board has been really intentional about recruiting and onboarding a very diverse set of leaders—not only with racial identity, but with gender identity.

We think about literally where they are in the Triangle. We have a very positive reputation in this community thanks to the work of past executive directors and past board members. We want to build on that and be creative about program delivery and how to support girls—not only while they’re in the program, but after.

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What kind of goals do you have for expanding the program?

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We have been an organization that has relied more on earned income, money that comes through program registration.

To make our program more accessible, we want to prioritize contributed income, whether that’s donations from individuals, corporate partnerships, or grant and foundation support. With a lot more economic challenge out there, we’ve reduced the cost of our program, but we still know that can be a barrier.

8020 Creedmoor Road, Raleigh • regenesismd.com • 919.322.2844

SSUE THE FASHION I

Your work at Cary Academy involves a similar skill set. What can you tell us about your role there?

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I’m one of our middle school volleyball coaches. We have two teams here. Being able to be in that mentorship role for girls of those ages has been really healing for me, but also for them at this time. We’re talking through some of the very same topics that Girls on the Run addresses: positive self-talk; open communication with your teammates; how to foster trust; and encouragement. Cary Academy is a really tight-knit, positive community that is focused on how to be a partner with other schools and organizations in Wake County.

There can be resources shared, whether it’s knowledge or financial or time. We have a lot of students that are very cognizant about where they are in their privileges, who consider how they can give back in their community, whether through volunteer efforts or fundraising.

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Jeanne Wilkinson

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

B A N D OF B R O T H E R S

Fuquay-Varina band 2Digh4 builds a varied sound upon its founders’ fraternal bonds

BY BRYAN C. REED

S

ibling harmony is a much-discussed phenomenon through the history of music. From The Everly Brothers to The Andrews Sisters, The Beach Boys’ Wilsons to the Jackson 5, there’s often a sort of supernatural closeness associated with siblings singing together. Whatever the combination of nature and nurture that produces it, it’s a consistently thrilling sound when it can be harnessed.

And that fraternal closeness is at the core of 2Digh4, a band based in Fuquay-Varina helmed by brothers Landon and Aubrey Digh. Boasting a genre-crossing style that embraces

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elements of country, pop and rock, the band emerged with its 2019 debut album, “4 The Years Gone 2 Soon.”

But that 10-song offering was built upon years of studying, playing and writing music—both together and separately. Piano and guitar lessons started early for the Dighs, when Aubrey was in first grade and Landon in third. As they grew, they found separate, but complementary paths to follow.

“I really took to guitar and tried to craft that more,” Aubrey recalls. “And Landon had always been singing. As far as I can remember, he’s always been singing around the house or singing to

the radio, even just singing about what he’s doing, making up his own song.”

Landon took to the high school chorus, encouraged by a teacher who recognized his potential. Aubrey, meanwhile, spent his time jamming on acoustic guitars and studying the techniques and tricks of his favorite players, especially John Mayer. “In high school I was kind of known as the John Mayer guy,” he laughs.

As each brother started building songs individually, they would occasionally perform together for talent shows or other small gigs. “Eventually, it got to a point where we were like,

‘Hey, we’re both writing stuff. We’ve done talent shows together.

We’ve got really good things to bring to the table that we can both do together’,” Aubrey says. “My strengths will contribute and his strengths will contribute and we’re sounding good.”

At first, the brothers started playing local gigs as a duo, focusing on finishing their education before chasing the music dream full-time. “We had the dream of doing it and going the distance,” Landon says. “It wasn’t as serious because we were still in school and we knew we wanted to get a college education, at least to have that. But our main goal and focus was to do music.”

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By 2018, the duo had expanded to a quartet with bassist Mike Kachman and drummer Melody Ballard filling out the rhythm section. With the full-band heft behind them, songs written through the brothers’ high school and college years developed into the 10 tracks of “4 the Years Gone 2 Soon.” From the Cars-gone-country bombast of opener “Whipped” and wistful acoustic pop of “Girl From Costa Rica,” to the alt-rock power chords of “One Way Girl” and the folksy lead single “North Carolina,” 2Digh4 showcases a broad stylistic reach.

“North Carolina” earned rotation from local country radio stations 94.7 WQDR and 98.5 WDWG, “The Big Dawg,” but despite the single’s easy fit within the country format, other songs don’t fit the mold so easily.

“People don’t really know how to nail us down exactly,” Landon says. “I think that has to do a lot with the covers we play. We play so much different stuff, from Ed Sheeran to John Mayer to Maroon 5, then going back to Keith Urban, Rascal Flatts, Tim McGraw—and we even have a version of ‘Heartless’ by Kanye West. That’s about as far out as we’ve ventured.”

But the platform has been enough to launch the band into a steady stream of gigs. Even as high-profile slots—like a show at the North Carolina State Fair — were sidelined due to COVID-19, the band has managed to stay active through the pandemic, taking their set to outdoor stages and socially-distanced crowds.

“Within two or three months, when things started to open back up, we were booked more than we’d ever been,” Landon recalls. “People just want to get out of the house, you know, and want to come out and see live music and do something different than being inside, cooped up.”

While other acts have hunkered down to focus on writing and recording until venues open back up in full swing, 2Digh4 band members have been balancing writing a follow-up album with their regular live performances—and, Landon admits, home improvement projects, as well.

“We’ve been trying our best to get some more songs down,” Aubrey says. “We want to do at least 12 songs and aim for 15.

We’re about halfway there now. It’s a good problem to have with all the shows we’ve been getting booked through all of this, but it’s kind of taken away from our time to work on stuff and practice.”

Promising a more reflective album—in Landon’s words, “a tribute to our roots,” and “an in-depth look at heartache, and love, and appreciating things you have”—it seems certain the brothers’ deep bonds still form the foundation of 2Digh4’s songs, no matter which stylistic directions they pursue.

Amber Foster Photography

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

THE HURRICANES SETTLE

M O R R I S V I L L E ’ S W A K E C O M P E T I T I O N C E N T E R N O W A C C O M M O D AT E S

W

hen Raleigh developer Jeff Ammons designed the Carolina Hurricanes’ practice facility at Wake Competition Center in Morrisville, he knew the operation’s long-term success would depend on the details. “Construction decisions are one part of it, but how things will look 25 years down the road is probably a more important decision for something like this,” Ammons says. “It’s not always about one big, expensive thing; it’s usually about 20 smaller things. We tried to cover as many of those things as we could.”

The skating facility, which opened in August, will cater not only to the NHL team, but hockey players and skaters of every kind. The Hurricanes, who began play in Raleigh in 1999, have never had their own practice space. But the team’s splashy new digs are just part of the operation.

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The Hurricanes will occupy about 12,000 square feet of the 120,000-square-foot ice skating facility, which will also accommodate competitive amateur and junior leagues, recreation leagues and public skating. On weekend nights, between 300 and 500 people rent skates, buy concessions and make a night of it. Ammons calls this the center’s “biggest revenue driver,” since selling admission and snacks is part of the overall business model.

The Hurricanes’ rink offers seating for 1,200, and a second full-size NHL rink holds 500 spectators. The team also claims a full-size locker room, weight room and medical treatment facilities. A players’ lounge includes couches, TVs and an area for table tennis—the go-to activity for players after practices and workouts. There are also office spaces for coaches and medical staff.

The team plans to use the facility for practices, training camps and player development camps—activities that were previously conducted at PNC Arena.

CHECKING ALL OF THE BOXES

It isn’t just the Hurricanes who get the five-star treatment. The building features amenities designed with an eye toward the future for teams and fans alike. Curved glass at the team benches provides additional safety for players, while the spectator area is equipped with overhead heaters, taking the edge off of the arena chill that is part of hockey life for families and fans. For additional comfort, some of the seating area includes chairs with seatbacks.

The building holds 14 locker rooms, including dedicated spaces for the North Carolina State University and Duke University club hockey teams, the Junior

Carolina Hurricanes

INTO NEW PRACTICE DIGS H O C K E Y, I C E S K AT I N G , S O C C E R , V O L L E Y B A L L A N D M O R E

Hurricanes U19 girls team, and the Carolina Junior Hurricanes of the United States Premier Hockey League. There is even an extra locker room to accommodate girls who play on the boys’ teams. “It’s another one of those boxes I feel like we have checked to make the place complete,” Ammons says.

Located off Aviation Parkway near Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Wake Competition Center originally opened in 2019 and is also home to Triangle Volleyball Club; Superior Gymnastics Academy; Raleigh Orthopaedic Performance Center; Athletic Lab; and the Accelerator School, which combines academic coursework and athletic training for middle and high school students who play soccer and hockey. The center accommodates two full-size lighted turf soccer fields, which bring in as many as 1,500 kids each day.

CREATING THE RIGHT ATMOSPHERE

Most amateur players who skate at Wake Competition Center will never make it to the NHL, but they will certainly get a taste of high-level treatment. All college and junior games are livestreamed, and the old organ from PNC Arena has been installed to add a bit of game-night ambiance. “These kids have played hockey a long time and it’s an expensive sport,” Ammons says. “You hate to see them go cold turkey and quit at [age] 18.

To come here and play for N.C. State—it doesn’t matter if there’s 1,000 or 20,000 people—they’re all cheering for you, and it makes a good atmosphere.”

Having a dedicated practice and training space will allow the Hurricanes to stage their operations on a more manageable scale, leaving the 18,680-seat PNC Arena for game nights. Once the Hurricanes return to NHL

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

play, the center will be the hub of athletic life in the Triangle, bringing together young athletes of all varieties and the professional hockey players who call this community their home.

“The Hurricanes are very important because [the team] brings a lot of notoriety and puts a flag down for who we are. It helps brand who we are,” Ammons says.

“But the volleyball, the gymnastics, the Athletic Lab and the soccer are all much larger tenants. The amount of ice time [the Hurricanes] buy and the amount of space they use is not what makes or breaks our business here, but certainly I wouldn’t want them anywhere else.”

Learn more about Wake Competition Center at wakecompetitioncenter.com.

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S P O N S O R E D C O N T E N T H E A LT H Y L I V I N G

Is Your Cortisol Killing You?

Ask your physician to test your cortisol hormone level

By Dr. Joe Hummel Chronic stress stems from many circumstances, such as a bad marriage, long-term illness or COVID-19. Its repercussions—elevated cortisol levels and subsequent inflammation—can wear us out, from the cellular level to our major biological systems. The cortisol hormone regulates a number of processes in the body and it helps the body respond to stress. Knowing your cortisol level allows you to make lifestyle adjustments that may help you avoid serious medical issues: BRAIN. The brain changes in response to experiences and the environment. Cortisol alters the brain’s ability to make healthy neurotransmitter levels. An estimated 30% of anxiety disorders are linked to high cortisol.

HEART. High cortisol, anxiety and depression, increase the risk for heart disease, although scientists are not entirely sure why. According to the American Heart Association, stress may indirectly influence cardiovascular health through high blood pressure and elevated risk markers such as

C-reactive protein (CRP). The shock of sudden, intense stress, such as the death of a partner, can rapidly weaken the heart, possibly because of a surge of stress hormones including cortisol. The phenomenon is called broken heart syndrome.

GUT. The brain and digestive tract are in constant communication so, unsurprisingly, chronic stress is associated with painful gastrointestinal issues.

Research shows patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) show abnormal levels of cortisol and cortisol-stimulating hormones.

CELLS. Nearly every cell has chromosomes, and the tip of each one is capped by a bit of genetic material. Each time a cell divides, these telomeres shorten. When they run out, the cell dies. High cortisol conditions develop unusually short telomeres, putting us at risk for many age-related illnesses.

IMMUNE SYSTEM. Data shows vaccines are less effective and wounds take longer to heal when cortisol is high. Research shows that stress even

makes us more vulnerable to the common cold.

In a healthy body, cortisol helps suppress inflammation. But the chronically stressed have consistently elevated cortisol levels, so the immune system grows resistant to the hormone, effectively ignoring it.

METABOLISM. High cortisol levels boost fat around the belly. Extra abdominal fat may increase the risk for diabetes, which, in turn, may impair the stress response in the brain. The system that inhibits cortisol in the brain doesn’t work normally in people with Type 2 diabetes who are shown to age faster than those without Type 2 diabetes.

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EV EN T S

Historic Fayetteville Street Walking Tours

BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

Every Saturday at 2 p.m.

220 Fayetteville Street Explore the historic heart of downtown Raleigh during the City of Raleigh Museum’s hour-long, 1-mile walking tour that highlights the people, places, architecture and political movements that make up Raleigh’s 200-plus years of history.

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Astronomy Days

“Valentine’s Romance & Tango”

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January 25–31 North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences website Join the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and Raleigh Astronomy Club for seven days of astronomical programming that will help you see the big picture—of the universe! Enjoy comet crafts, solar observations, lectures, rocket launches and more.

February 13 8 p.m. via livestream Enjoy beloved romantic music like French composer Claude Debussy’s “Clair de Lune” combined with fiery tangos by Argentine composer Astor Piazzolla, during a performance that will be livestreamed from Meymandi Concert Hall. Purchase tickets online.

January 30 North Carolina Museum of History website Join the statewide kickoff to Black History Month during the North Carolina Museum of History’s virtual African American Cultural Celebration, named a top 20 event by the Southeast Tourism Society since 2015. The online event will bring together community organizations, authors, artists, musicians, filmmakers and scholars to showcase the contributions African Americans have made to North Carolina’s history and culture. ncmuseumofhistory.org/aacc-2021

Krispy Kreme Challenge Virtual Race

February 13–July 11 North Carolina Museum of Art 2110 Blue Ridge Road The “Golden Mummies of Egypt” exhibit presents eight extraordinary mummies and explores beliefs about the afterlife during the era when Egypt was part of the Greek and Roman worlds (circa 300 B.C.E.–200 C.E.). Reserve your free, timed ticket online. ncartmuseum.org

VisitNC.com

February 6–13 Participants choose their race location The Krispy Kreme Challenge, which supports the North Carolina Children’s Hospital, will be a virtual event this year. Participants can choose their race location and a convenient time at any point during the racing period to complete their run. Each participant will also receive a custom 2021 Krispy Kreme Challenge race day shirt and a voucher for one dozen doughnuts to be redeemed at any Krispy Kreme location in the country.

“Golden Mummies of Egypt”

NCMA

20th Annual African American Cultural Celebration

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

krispykremechallenge.com

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DINE &DRAFT MIDTOWN MAGAZINE

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 BAD DADDY’S BURGER BAR 111 Seaboard Avenue 919.747.9163 baddaddysburgerbar.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

FINE FOLK Two-thirteen 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

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

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

CHOPSTIX 5607 Creedmoor Road 919.781.6268 chopstix.com

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

STANBURY 938 N. Blount Street 919.977.4321 stanburyraleigh.com

KINGS 141 Park at North Hills Street 919.600.5700 kingsbowlamerica.com

THE STATION 701 N. Person Street 919.977.1567 stationraleigh.com

LONERIDER AT FIVE POINTS 1626 Glenwood Avenue 919.322.2434 loneriderbeer.com LYNNWOOD 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

CARROLL’S KITCHEN 19 E. Martin Street 919.670.3622 carrollskitchen.org

THE OAK 4035 Lake Boone Trail 919.787.9100 jmrkitchens.com/oak

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 dailyfareraleigh.com DEATH & TAXES 105 W. Hargett Street 984.242.0218 ac-restaurants.com/death-taxes EDWARDS MILL BAR & GRILL 3201 Edwards Mill Road 919.783.5447 edwardsmillbarandgrill.com

A FOODIE GUIDE TO RALEIGH

OAK CITY MEATBALL SHOPPE 180 E. Davie Street 919.714.9014 oakcitymeatball.com PLAYERS RETREAT 105 Oberlin Road 919.755.9589 playersretreat.net THE POINT AT GLENWOOD RESTAURANT & BAR 1626 Glenwood Avenue 919.755.1007 thepointatglenwood.com THE RALEIGH TIMES BAR 14 E. Hargett Street 919.833.0999 raleightimesbar.com

STIR 4242 Six Forks Road #100 984.200.8614 stirraleigh.com TASTE 1912 Bernard Street 919.948.7815 thetastebernard.com VILLAGE GRILL 8470 Honeycutt Road 919.890.5340 villagegrillraleigh.com VITA VITE 313 W. Hargett Street 919.803.3156 200 Park at North Hills Street 919.322.0649 vitaviteraleigh.com

CO 101 Park at North Hills Street 919.258.2070 eatatco.com DAVID’S DUMPLING & NOODLE BAR 1900 Hillsborough Street 919.239.4536 ddandnb.com FIVE STAR RESTAURANT 511 W. Hargett Street 919.833.3311 fivestarraleigh.com HAKO JAPANESE RESTAURANT 2603-155 Glenwood Avenue 919.235.0589 hakosushinc.com LEMONGRASS THAI RESTAURANT 8320 Litchford Road #142 919.954.0377 lemongrassthairestaurant.net NEO-ASIA 6602 Glenwood Avenue 919.783.8383 neoasiaraleigh.com NI ASIAN KITCHEN 8817 Six Forks Road 919.916.5106 niasiankitchen.com

WINSTON’S GRILLE 6401 Falls of Neuse Road 919.790.0700 winstonsgrille.com

ORCHID JAPANESE RESTAURANT 7432 Creedmoor Road 919.890.5345 orchidjapanesebuffet.com

YARD HOUSE 4208 Six Forks Road 919.881.2590 yardhouse.com

PEARL CHINESE RESTAURANT 3215 Avent Ferry Road 919.233.8776 pearlchinesenc.com

ZEST CAFE & HOME ART 8831 Six Forks Road 919.848.4792 zestcafehomeart.com

RED DRAGON CHINESE RESTAURANT 2513 Fairview Road 919.782.1102 raleighreddragon.com

Asian

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 BREWERY BHAVANA 218 S. Blount Street 919.829.9998 brewerybhavana.com BUL BOX North Hills (coming soon) bul-box.com

SEOUL GARDEN 4701 Atlantic Avenue 919.850.9984 seoulgardennc.com SHABASHABU 3080 Wake Forest Road 919.501.7755 shabashabu.net

PLEASE CHECK WEBSITES OR CALL FOR TAKEOUT OPTIONS. 136 | midtownmag.com

Highlighted restaurants are Midtown advertisers

SONO 319 Fayetteville Street 919.521.5328 sonoraleigh.com

BITTERSWEET 16 E. Martin Street 919.977.3829 bittersweetraleigh.com

GROOVY DUCK BAKERY 3434 Edwards Mill Road 919.787.9233 groovyduckbakeryllc.com

OLE TIME BARBECUE 6309 Hillsborough Street 919.859.2544 oletimebarbecue.com

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

BOULTED BREAD 614 W. South Street 919.999.3984 boultedbread.com

HAYES BARTON CAFE 2000 Fairview Road 919.856.8551 hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com

THE PIT AUTHENTIC BARBECUE 328 W. Davie Street 919.890.4500 thepit-raleigh.com

CRUMBL COOKIES 2920 Sherman Oak Place Suite 100 919.249.1333 crumblcookies.com

LUCETTEGRACE 235 S. Salisbury Street 919.307.4950 lucettegrace.com

Breakfast/Specialty

SUSHI BLUES CAFE 301 Glenwood Avenue 919.664.8061 sushibluescafe.com SUSHI O BISTRO + SUSHI BAR 222 Glenwood Avenue 919.838.8868 sushioraleighnc.com THAIPHOON BISTRO 301 Glenwood Avenue #190 919.720.4034 thaiphoonbistroraleigh.com WARAJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 5910 Duraleigh Road 919.783.1883 warajijapaneserestaurant.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

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

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

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

VIDERI CHOCOLATE FACTORY 327 W. Davie Street 919.755.5053 viderichocolatefactory.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 bullandbearbrew.com

YELLOW DOG BREAD CO. 219 E. Franklin Street 984.232.0291 yellowdogbread.com

BRIGS 8111 Creedmoor Road 919.870.0994 brigs.com

Barbecue

Idle Hour Coffee Roasters 1818 Oberlin Road, #103 984.200.1605 idlehourcoffee.com

GOODBERRIES FROZEN CUSTARD Multiple Raleigh locations goodberrys.com

BIG AL’S BBQ & CATERING 2920 Forestville Road 919.217.0653 bigalsbbqandcatering.com

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

CLYDE COOPER’S BARBEQUE 327 S. Wilmington Street 919.832.7614 clydecoopersbbq.com

Please check to see if these businesses have reopened or changed their hours before you head out.

JUBALA COFFEE 8450 Honeycutt Road 919.758.8330 2100 Hillsborough Street 919.792.1767 jubalacoffee.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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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

Cafés BENELUX COFFEE 402 Oberlin Road 919.900.8294 beneluxcoffee.com THE DAILY PLANET CAFE 121 W. Jones Street 919.707.8060 thedailyplanetcafe.com KALE ME CRAZY 2018 Cameron Street 919.239.4660 kalemecrazy.net MANHATTAN CAFE 320 S. Wilmington Street 919.833.6105 manhattancafenc.com

CHAR-GRILL Four Raleigh locations chargrillusa.com

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

CHOW 8311 Creedmoor Road 919.841.4995 chowraleigh.com

PINE STATE COFFEE Multiple locations in Raleigh pinestatecoffee.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

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

DONOVAN’S DISH Serving the Triangle 919.651.8309 donovansdish.com

UNCORKED RALEIGH 10511 Shadowlawn Drive, Suite 111 984.200.5423 uncorkedraleigh.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

Caribbean CARIBBEAN CAFÉ 2645 E. Millbrook Road 919.872.4858 caribbeancafenc.com

ROCKY TOP CATERING 1705 E. Millbrook Road 919.850.2340 rockytopcatering.com

JAMAICAN GRILLE 5500 Atlantic Springs Road 919.873.0200 LEE’S KITCHEN 4638 Capital Boulevard 919.872.7422 1100 North Raleigh Boulevard, Suite 116 919.521.5957 leeskitchenjamaican.com MUM’S JAMAICAN RESTAURANT 3901 Capital Boulevard 919.615.2332 mumsjamaicanfood.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

Catering

THE COMMUNITY DELI 901 Oberlin Road 919.896.6810 thecommunitydeli.com

CATERING WORKS 2319 Laurelbrook Street 919.828.5932 cateringworks.com

GROUCHO’S DELI 10 Horne Street 919.977.7747 grouchos.com

PICKS YOU UP AND MAKES YOU

Carolina’s Greatest Hits 138 | midtownmag.com

Please check to see if these businesses have reopened or changed their hours before you head out.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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LUNCH BOX DELI 2816 Trawick Road 919.872.7882 POPPYSEED MARKET 8801 Lead Mine Road 919.870.4997 poppyseedmkt.com VILLAGE DELI & GRILL Multiple Raleigh locations villagedeli.net

Eclectic 41HUNDRED 4100 Main at North Hills Street 919.278.1478 41hundredrestaurant.com ORO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 18 E. Martin Street 919.239.4010 ororaleigh.com PLATES NEIGHBORHOOD KITCHEN 301 Glenwood Avenue 919.828.0018 plateskitchen.com

French 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

TASTE 1912 Bernard Street 919.948.7815 thetastebernard.com

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

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

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

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

TAVERNA AGORA 326 Hillsborough Street 919.881.8333 tavernaagora.com

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

PICCOLA ITALIA 423 Woodburn Road 919.833.6888 piccolaitalianc.com

Irish

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

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

Italian

VIC’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 331 Blake Street 919.829.7090 4035 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 109 984.200.9292 vicsitalianrestaurant.com

AMEDEO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3905 Western Boulevard 919.851.0473 amedeosrestaurant.com

VIVACE 4209 Lassiter Mill Road, Suite 115 919.787.7747 vivaceraleigh.com

ASSAGGIO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3501 W. Millbrook Road 919.785.2088 assaggios-nc.com

Mediterranean/ Middle Eastern

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

KADHAI THE INDIAN WOK 6260-112 Glenwood Avenue 919.785.2864 theindianexpresskadhai.com

GRAVY 135 S. Wilmington Street 919.896.8513 gravyraleigh.com

ROYAL INDIA 3901 Capital Boulevard 919.981.0849 royalIndiannc.com

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

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

MIA FRANCESCA 4100 Main at North Hills Street 919.278.1525 miafrancesca.com

140 | midtownmag.com

TUSCAN BLU 327 W. Davie Street 919.834.5707 tuscanblu.com

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, Raleigh 919.859.1303 fiestamexicananc-cary.com

Hey Triangle, What's For Dinner?

We bring chef-prepared meals to your door each week, with no subscription or minimum order required! Just heat and enjoy high quality meals, made locally.

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Raleigh owned and operated since 2015 919.760.5134 | www.tastefully-served.com

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 TORERO’S AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE 4721 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 101 919.873.9116 torerosmexicanrestaurants.com VIVA MEXICAN KITCHEN 4112 Pleasant Valley Road 919.571.1188 vivamexicankitchen.com

Pizzerias 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 DONATOS PIZZA 7860 Alexander Promenade Place 919.957.2880 donatos.com

LILLY’S PIZZA 1813 Glenwood Avenue 919.833.0226 lillyspizza.com

AREPA CULTURE NC Food Truck (brick and mortar location coming soon to 6724 Glenwood Avenue) arepaculturenc.com

MOONLIGHT PIZZA COMPANY 615 W. Morgan Street 919.755.9133 moonlightpizza.com

BARCELONA WINE BAR 430 W. Martin Street 919.808.5400 barcelonawinebar.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

GUASACA AREPA & SALSA GRILL 4025 Lake Boone Trail, Suite 107 919.322.4928 2512 Hillsborough Street 919.210.6838 guasaca.com

42ND STREET OYSTER BAR 508 W. Jones Street 919.831.2811 42ndstoysterbar.com CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY 832 Spring Forest Road 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 THE COWFISH SUSHI BURGER BAR 4208 Six Forks Road 919.784.0400 thecowfish.com

BRASA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE 8551 Brier Creek Parkway 919.544.3344 brasasteakhouse.com

Southern

OAK STEAKHOUSE 417 W. Hargett Street 984.255.1818 oakraleigh.com

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

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

NOFO @ THE PIG 2014 Fairview Road 919.821.1240 nofo.com

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

Steakhouses

VINOS FINOS TAPAS AND WINE BAR 8450 Honeycutt Road, Suite 110 919.747.9233 vinosfinosypicadas.com

THE MECCA RESTAURANT 13 E. Martin Street 919.832.5714 mecca-restaurant.com

South American

TUPELO HONEY 425 Oberlin Road 919.723.9353 tupelohoneycafe.com

ANGUS BARN 9401 Glenwood Avenue 919.781.2444 angusbarn.com

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

SALTWATER SEAFOOD MARKET 4 Fenton Street 919.834.1813 saltwaterseafoodnc.com

STATE FARMERS’ MARKET RESTAURANT 1240 Farmers Market Drive 919.755.1550 realbiscuits.c

MAMI’S 2401 Wake Forest Road 919.834.8572 maminoras.com

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

Seafood

RYE BAR & SOUTHERN KITCHEN 500 Fayetteville Street 919.227.3370 ryeraleigh.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

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 FICTION KITCHEN 428 S. Dawson Street 919.831.4177 thefictionkitchen.com GRABBAGREEN 4421 Six Forks Road #103 919.326.7799 grabbagreen.com HAPPY + HALE 443 Fayetteville Street 919.307.4148 happyandhale.com IRREGARDLESS CAFÉ 901 W. Morgan Street 919.833.8898 irregardless.com Midtown advertisers have been highlighted.

Some restaurants do not have websites and must be contacted by phone. Please call or check websites for takeout options.

THE REMEDY DINER 137 E. Hargett Street 919.835.3553 theremedydiner.com

PLEASE CHECK WEBSITES OR CALL FOR TAKEOUT OPTIONS. 142 | midtownmag.com

Please check to see if these businesses have reopened or changed their hours before you head out.

M I DTOW N M INGL ES

BY CINDY HUNTLEY

SWAGGER CELEBRATES Diane McKinney Photography

18TH ANNUAL 2020 HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND CHARITY EVENT Guests at Swagger’s annual Holiday

Open House enjoyed exclusive offers and a free gift with purchase while

Swagger

kicking off the holiday season. Swagger donated the ticket proceeds and a

RALEIGH CITY FARM

portion of sales from the event to A Place at the Table Cafe.

RECOGNIZED, AWARDED $10,000 DONATION Pure Farmland, a maker of high-quality,

BAILEY’S FINE JEWELRY FOOD BANK DONATION Bailey’s Fine Jewelry raised more than

$30,000 this past year for the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina

through its “Say I Do, Share the Love”

campaign. For each engagement ring purchased in its stores, Bailey’s Fine

Jewelry donated funds for 250 meals— enough to feed a family of four for an

plant-based protein products, has Food Bank of Central & Eastern N. C.

SHARES THE LOVE WITH

recognized Raleigh City Farm for its

positive impact in the community. The

recognition included a $10,000 donation as part of Pure Farmland’s 2020 Pure

Growth Project, an initiative launched to ensure community gardens and farms continue to thrive. Raleigh City Farm is a nonprofit urban farm located at 800 N. Blount Street in Raleigh.

entire month.

NEW BOUTIQUE OPENS IN CAMERON VILLAGE People from throughout Raleigh came to celebrate the grand opening of

CharleyMadelyn in Cameron Village this past November—and to get an exclusive sneak peek of the boutique’s holiday

Kerry Miller

collection. Guests received a mini swag

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bag, some snacks and beverages,

and an an exclusive discount to shop CharleyMadelyn’s new pieces.

Charley Madelyn

NE W A R O U N D TO W N

BY CINDY HUNTLEY

CAMERON VILLAGE BOUTIQUE ENCOURAGES WOMEN TO CONQUER THE WORLD Charley Madelyn is a boutique designed to hold a space for women exploring the world through faith and fashion. The store’s owner struggled with fertility for many years and has pledged to donate 10% of each month’s proceeds to others who are facing fertility issues. Her mission is to not only offer “cute clothing and fancy coffee mugs,” but to encourage and empower women to keep conquering the world.

2012 Cameron Street 252.481.4977

Lonerider

charleymadelyn.com

LONERIDER OPENS RESTAURANT IN FIVE POINTS Lonerider at Five Points has opened in the former home of The Point at Glenwood. This “Hideout” location is the brewery’s first full restaurant and features pizza, wings, salads and more under locally famed head chef Ron West..

1626 Glenwood Avenue 919.322.2434

FAUXREAL FLOWERS OPENS DOWNTOWN FauxReal Flowers has opened at Seaboard Station, offering custom faux flower arrangements on a rental basis for weddings, receptions and other events. Collaborate with designers via email, or stop by to see their inventory firsthand. Arrangements can be finalized and approved weeks before the event, simplifying the flower-ordering process.

Onward Reserve

5876 Farringdon Place, Suite 200 984.201.1919 fauxrealflowers.com

FAIR TRADE COFFEE BRAND LAUNCHES IN RALEIGH—WITH A FINANCIAL TWIST Raleigh-based Bull and Bear Brew is a fresh, organic, fair trade financial literacy coffee brand with a mission to educate and put you in control of your finances. Merging different market investing terms with different tastes, the company’s bags and mugs feature QR codes that can be scanned to provide a quick, 15- to 30-second financial or life lesson—along with a cup of coffee. Preorders are now available on the company’s website. bullandbearbrew.com orders@bullandbearbrew.com

Bull and Bear Brew

FauxReal Flowers

loneriderbeer.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2021

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KAL EIDOSCOPE L IVING

E LE CTRIC FEE L ACRYLIC AND GOLD AND S I LV E R L E A F (MIXED MEDIA) ON CANVAS 30 INCHES BY 40 INCHES

STEPHANIE BOSTOCK Artist Stephanie Bostock turned to painting to heal from personal trauma. Her intuitive process is meditative, guided by her emotions; and for “Electric Feel,” she felt electric. Starting with a dark and saturated color, Bostock builds up the canvas surface with layers of acrylic paint in vertical bands of lighter hues. Her signature mark is to tear, crinkle and place gold and silver metal leaf directly into the paint. The textural result shines and sparkles, and conveys her electric mood in “Electric Feel.”

Bostock lives and works in Fayetteville. She studied industrial design at Purdue University and worked as a graphic designer before becoming a full-time artist. Her artwork is on view at Vita Vite’s midtown and downtown locations, on her website at stephaniebostockart.com and on Instagram @stephenbostock.

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“One day I pulled my canvas out and started to paint. It was like a big explosion. I started pouring my emotions out onto the canvas and I kept painting.”

BY CHARLOTTE RUSSELL

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Dr. Duncan Hughes

Anna Churchill

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Synergy Founder + CEO

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