September

10

th

Anniversary MEANINGFUL MILESTONES P. 28

2025 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR ST. ROCH

2025 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR + BEST NEW RESTAURANT 1 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

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SEPTEMBER 2025 | 9

SEPTEMBER

75

BEST RESTAURANTS Now a full-blown foodie destination, Raleigh is packed with palatable players— and our Best Restaurants serve as the ultimate culinary scoreboard, where tradition meets rebellion and every dish demands attention. Dig in.

ON THE COVER: Tomato girl (and guy) summer is in full effect with St. Roch’s bottarga-dressed green tomato stunner. Photo by Anna Routh Barzin 10 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com PICTURED: Chef Saif Rahman spins plated poetry at Peregrine. Photo by Patrick Shanahan

WHERE RALEIGH

COMES TO SHOP,

SAVOR & UNWIND

EXPLORE DIRECTORY

UPCOMING EVENTS

2068 CLARK AVE, RALEIGH NC, 27605 SEPTEMBER 2025 | 11

58 September

BUZZ

EAT

DO

STUFF

19 SQUARED UP

37 MEET MR. HENRY

51 PEDAL & PULSE

67 STOMPING SEASON

20 UP OR OUT?

38 FORKING TRADITION

52 NEW + NEXT

68 SILVER LINING

22 PERMIT TO PLAY

39 IT’S ELECTRIC

56 OFF THE CUFF

70 RETAIL FIX

23 DMV DEEP DIVE

40 DRESSED DOWN

57 SO GOLDEN

71 GREEN STROKES

24 PLASTIC DIET

42 PLAYING WITH FIRE

58 ACTING UP

73 ORANGE CRUSH

25 MAEVE MOMENT

43 NEXT COURSE

61 FOR THE GIRLS

Adult friendships unlocked

EXTRAS

26 HACK ATTACK

45 HIGH HORSE

62 FIVE OUTSIDE

99 DINING GUIDE

5 must-do’s outside Raleigh

Local restaurant review

28 RM REWIND

46 SCRAP SAVVY

64 GETAWAY

106 LAST CALL

30 CARLESS CULTURE

47 BLOC PARTY

New tower on the rise

Village District’s first bar bows.

North Hills tower rezoning

Resto staying power problem

Buskers wanted

Stanbury to open second concept

Inside targeted scams

Galloping back on the scene

10-year highlight reel

Trophy “ Trash never tasted so good.

Car-free & carefree

Who’s on the move

Locals head to Culinary Olympics.

Live-fire concept ignites Oak City.

Buzzy retailer plants in VD.

35 PEOPLE ARE TALKING

West Coast improv now staging

East End’s bistro era

Are microplastics killing us?

Spotted at local events

Your calendar best bets

Trophy “blue” outpost opening

Burning questions answered

31 BE SEEN

BMX flips the Hopscotch script.

Can’t-miss theater lineup

Charlottesville

Mt. Joy on the record Fresh finds ahead Roots and art intertwine Color us tangerine.

Ten years told

22

83 South incoming

67

12 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Clog craze

25

Hell’s Kitchen: Marc J Franklin; Peregrine chicken skins: Patrick Shanahan; Maeve: Anthropologie

46

An autumn preview:

An Insider’s Look at Elevated Senior Living

TO FIND O U DE

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RE. MO

SCAN CO

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SEPTEMBER 2025 | 13

CONNECT CONTESTS | PROMOTION S | EVENTS

▲

DECADE DEEP

ARE YOU ON THE LIST? FORGET BORING. GRAB THE HOTTEST RALEIGH SCOOP WITH OUR R A L E I G H I N S I D E R .

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT FROM US: → T H E L AT E S T B U Z Z Pop in your pods and stay ahead of the headlines. → N O F I LT E R Raw, real and worth your listen.

Bye-Bye Baby Are kids the new taboo?

→ UNCUT SPIN The stuff they almost didn’t let us say.

Get on the list at raleighmag.com 14 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

From top: zamurovic brothers/shutterstock.com; Alexander Brenner/shutterstock.com

POP THE BUBBLY—RM is double digits! As the voice of our city, from legislation to libations, we’ve spent a decade deep diving into the stories that shape Raleigh. Politics, patios, power players and pop-ups—we’ve covered it all. Cheers to 10 years of dishing the real—and here’s to many more.

Flip to p. 106 for our highlight reel.

ave All-time fer: RM cov

Publisher Gina Pearce Stephens gina@raleighmag.com

Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam melissa@raleighmag.com

Graphic Designer Shirley Polk Account Executive Karen White Associate Editor Lauren Kruchten Assistant Editor Heidi Reid Editorial Intern Elyse Waters Contributing Writers Laura Brummett Elliott Harrell Chris Leavengood Peyton Masilun Abigail Mason Katy Shero Jennifer Zelek Contributing Photographers Albright Studio Food Seen Sean Junqueira Forrest Mason Media Jennifer Robertson Photography Steady Film Productions Susan Holt Photography

Raleigh Magazine is published 10 times a year. RM is not responsible for unsolicited material. Such material will become the property of RM and is subject to editing and digital use. Reproduction of this magazine in part or in whole is prohibited without the express consent of the publisher.

To contribute: RM welcomes your ideas. Please send ideas and comments to Melissa Howsam at melissa@raleighmag.com for consideration.

Queries are accepted for feature stories, photographs and calendar events.

Subscriptions: Raleigh Magazine is available at various locations throughout the city; you can also subscribe for $20 annually (10 issues).

100 S. Harrington St., Raleigh, NC, 27603 919.805.4698 | raleighmag.com SEPTEMBER 2025 | 15

FROM THE PUBLISHER

CHEERS TO 10 YEARS!

I still remember the jitters and joy of putting together our very first issue. I wasn’t sure how it would be received—but I knew Raleigh was ready for a namesake city magazine that celebrated its vibrancy, its creativity and its growth.

With EIC Christa Gala & Creative Director Caitlin Harrison

2015

With Harrison, EIC Jane Porter, then-intern Lauren Kruchten & Account Exec Ele Roberts

2018

With Asst. Editor Anna Beth Adcock, EIC Melissa Howsam, Account Exec Tina Dahir, Creative Director Liz Reed, Account Exec Debby Serena. Intern Cameron Rhinehardt & Assoc. Editor Kruchten

2023

A decade later, we’ve printed millions of magazines, published thousands of stories, profiled innumerable locals and watched the city we love grow into not just a “best place to live,” but a beacon of the South.

Along the way, we’ve chronicled Raleigh’s rise—her progress and her setbacks, her wins and her losses. And through it all, we’ve remained committed to telling her stories and sharing her perspectives with honesty and heart (“10 Highlights in 10 Years,” p. 28).

We’ve navigated big changes—from hurricanes to a global pandemic— continuing to publish through it all, remaining committed to authentic, honest, passionate, forward-thinking journalism.

I’m incredibly proud of the team behind this magazine—the editors who shape our voice, the designers who bring every page to life, and the sales and support staff who make the business side of media sustainable. They are the soul of Raleigh Magazine.

And then there’s you—our loyal readers.

Whether you’ve been with us from the very beginning or picked up your first issue last month, thank you. Your belief in the power of local media—and your love for this city—fuels everything we do.

Now, as we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking ahead. The next 10 years hold even more promise. We’re excited to expand the platforms you can engage with us on, dive deeper into issues that matter, and continue discovering what makes Raleigh tick. The city is growing—and we’re growing with it.

16 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Mike McConeghy Christa Gala Caitlin Harrison Jennifer Robertson Laura Dalton Jane Porter Ele Roberts Shirley Polk Alexi Drosu Dan Strickford Liz Reed Bill Young

So, here’s to 10 years of storytelling. To latenight deadlines, early morning coffee runs, unforgettable interviews, iconic covers and to the city that inspires us every day. And to you—for letting us be part of your life, your coffee table and your conversations.

Robert Ramseur

We can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings.

Lauren Kruchten

With gratitude, With Kruchten, Howsam and Asst.

Editor Heidi Reid

Ronnie Pearce

Melissa Howsam

Heidi Reid Karen White

Gina Stephens gina@raleighmag.com 919.612.7902

Headshot by Veritas Digital Photography

TEN YEARS AGO, Raleigh Magazine started with a simple idea: to tell the stories that make our city stand out. Stories about the people, the businesses, the neighborhoods—and the moments that shape Raleigh. Since then, what started as a passion project has grown into the trusted voice for Raleigh—and it’s all thanks to you: our readers, our partners and this incredible community.

Epic summers need a fall encore.

Go with the flow or flow with the music and reimagine an autumn getaway with a coastal twist. Your waterfront escape is only 2 hours away.

WilmingtonAndBeaches.com SEPTEMBER 2025 | 17

18 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

+ STREET STRUMMING + LIFE IN PLASTIC + SCAM NATION

BUZZ

Skyline Shuffle

Raleigh’s condo game is on the rise—literally. Enter One Nash Square, Alchemy Properties South’s new 20-story luxury building coming to DTR. Aptly situated across from Nash Square on West Martin Street—on the vacant lot beside the former Berkeley Cafe location (which will be razed for the project)—the high-rise will boast 82 sophisticated one- to four-bedroom condos with private outdoor spaces, sweeping views and luxe amenities, Optimist Consulting Account Executive Emma Barber tells RM. Think a swimming pool, human and pet spas, a fitness center, and meeting rooms.

Rendering + design: Morris Adjmi Architects; architect of record: ISG

Originally envisioned as a 36-story luxury residential tower with a parking deck, the height was scaled back due to rising interest rates—though the deck remains in the works. The current design also calls for 5.5K square feet of ground-floor retail, with delivery anticipated in late 2027. So, you heard it here first—condos are making a comeback. onenashsquare.com —Lauren Kruchten

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 19

BUZZ

LASSITER DISTRICT

5 to 12 Stories

SIX FORKS & LASSITER

12 to 40 Stories (Max 37)

SIX FORKS

12 to 40 Stories (Max 37)

MAIN DISTRICT EXPANSION PHASE 2 12 to 20 Stories

Up or Out

Midtown mixed-use destination files new rezoning request.

By Lauren Kruchten

North Hills wants to grow again—but this time up, not out. In late August, Kane Realty submitted a rezoning request to City Council to allow taller buildings on five parcels in the Main and Lassiter districts. The proposed project wouldn’t increase how much can be built, but would make room for more open public space, pedestrian-friendly amenities, ground-floor activation and a more varied skyline.

“We’re changing the shape of what we’re zoning, not the scale,” emphasizes Kane Director of Development Kallie O’Haren Walker. Think of it like a glob of Play-Doh: You can form it tall and skinny or short and wide, but you’re still working with the same overall amount of Play-Doh. 20 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

The new request comes ~four years after Kane submitted a controversial rezoning in 2021 seeking approval for a 30-story tower at the intersection of Six Forks Road and I-440. That plan was ultimately withdrawn in 2023 amid City Council opposition and community pushback.

This time, Kane hopes a key distinction will shift the conversation: They’re not asking for more density or square footage (2,500 residential units and ~3M square feet are allowed)—just flexibility to reimagine how that same volume is shaped.

“Twenty-five years ago, we embarked on a mission to create a district in our city where people want to gather, everyday needs can be met, special occasions can be celebrated—where people can live, work, play and thrive,” recalls Kane Realty founder John Kane. “The last premier parcels in Raleigh’s Midtown deserve the best we can create with the appropriate balance of height, density and beautifully landscaped ground-level spaces.”

While specifics are still in flux, Walker envisions public gathering areas, ground-floor retail and restaurants, and opportunities for outdoor dining and activation. The additional height would also make space for outdoor amenities within the buildings themselves.

Still, this is a long game. “We have no imminent plans to start these projects,” she maintains. “This is [about] long-term planning and future flexibility—not immediate change.” With another community meeting set for sometime this fall, one thing is certain: North Hills is evolving— but exactly how it will take shape remains to be seen.

Visuals for illustrative purposes only, courtesy of Kane Realty Corp

Future North Hills:

5

BIG

Pedestrians and bike plans?

Improved pedestrian and bike connectivity is another key promise Kane tied to the rezoning request, including a proposed multiuse path from Lassiter Mill down to Six Forks in the direction of I-440—serving a safer, more accessible route.

QUESTIONS

Why go tall instead?

Where will you park?

Several of the proposed buildings would rid groundlevel parking, but Walker assures each site will feature integrated decks—with the possibility of below-ground parking at the Lassiter District to boot. Phase 1 of Kane’s North Hills expansion added ~1,000 spaces, with the potential for a couple hundred more in this next phase.

What about the traffic?

Traffic concerns are clearly fueling much of the conversation—especially in light of City Council’s recent decision to scrap the Six Forks Road widening project.

But Kane maintains that mixed-use destinations actually reduce vehicular traffic coming into the development: When daily needs and attractions are clustered, people drive less and bike or walk more—easing congestion, lowering emissions and boosting overall mobility. In addition, Kane is also proposing adding a dedicated right turn lane from Lassiter Mill Road onto Six Forks.

BTN

While some nearby residents have expressed frustration—noting they “don’t want to look at just another big building”—Kane is already entitled to build under current zoning and density limits. In other words, buildings will go up either way—but, per Kane, taller buildings offer more flexibility to incorporate green features, both at the ground-level and on rooftops.

How will the public benefit?

Kane’s team is working with the city to identify priorities that emerged during the last rezoning. “We want to have a lot of opportunities throughout this process to talk with city staff, council and the community as a whole to make sure the project can deliver meaningful public benefits,” says Walker. Among the possibilities: an upgrade to Fire Station 9 along Rowan Street.

What will happen to existing businesses?

Current businesses on the affected sites—Wells Fargo, North State Bank, Exxon and Walgreens—will be invited to stay, with construction likely to start on vacant parcels first.

Traffic Changes in NH

Despite population growth at North Hills, daily traffic around the area has decreased since the mixed-use district opened in 2004.

Cars Entering North Hills via Six Forks Road

Cars Entering North Hills via Lassiter Mill Road

2003: 43K 2023: 37K

2003: 15K 2023: 12K Per NCDOT

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 21

BUZZ

Curbside Culture Could live music enliven the DTR core?

By Laura Brummett

DTR KNOWS how to turn up for events: music pumping, crowds buzzing—but what about the in-between? As Raleigh reshapes its core, street performers might just be the missing beat, adding a vibe reset that attracts locals and tourists alike and infuses the city with the kind of daily rhythm that defines vibrant destinations.

We’re talking buskers—local musicians posted up on corners and sidewalks, amplifying Downtown’s pulse and appeal. Think Broadway in Nashville, any random street in NYC, New Orleans’ French Quarter, even Downtown Asheville—places where vibrant street scenes turn casual strolls into culture-soaked moments and help shape a city’s identity.

So what’s stopping Raleigh from adding a little harmony to the hustle? Turns out, not much. The city issues street performer permits year-round and currently has 36* active, according to City of Raleigh Hospitality and Nightlife Planner Rachel Bain.

The rules are simple and street-smart. Street musicians must follow the city’s noise ordinance, keep sidewalks ADA-accessible, and wrap up by 10pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends. Amplification is fair game—as long as wires don’t cross sidewalks—and a yearlong permit runs just $50. Bonus: Unlike food trucks or pushcarts, buskers aren’t locked into one location.

So far, the harmony holds. “Generally, feedback has been positive,” attests Bain, noting complaints are rare. “If someone’s getting close to the noise cutoff time, we might remind them. But nothing egregious and no major issues.”

That low barrier has allowed pockets of personality to bloom, from the occasional musician at Person Street Plaza to Moore Square’s daytime Busker Series. Still, most performances are sporadic—or tied to organized events.

“If buskers were brought in as a strategic activation,” says Downtown Raleigh Alliance VP of Communications and Community Relations Ileana Rodriguez, “it could be a fun way to amplify the idea of Fayetteville Street being North Carolina’s Main Street.”

While the organization doesn’t have current plans to bring in buskers, Rodriguez ensures they’re open to the idea down the line. One creative proposition? “Putting performers on different blocks and asking each of them to choose songs from a different NC musician’s repertoire— or by having the musicians choose from a genre related to NC music or Southern music and culture in general.”

The concept could start small—say, one Saturday a month. Coordination would be key to prevent competing noise, says Bain, but it’s definitely doable. “For something more organized, we might want to space performers out, similar to how we regulate pushcarts,” she explains. “But we’re absolutely open to it.”

And it’s not just about ambiance. Busking could give local musicians a platform, boost foot traffic for small businesses and help reshape what Raleigh nightlife looks like.

In short, Raleigh doesn’t need Broadway’s bachelorette chaos—but a few strings strummed while guests enjoy a Sip n’ Stroll beverage after a dinner Downtown? That might be just the rhythm we’ve been missing. *As of press time

22 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

DMV Downfalls

New DMV audits call out failures and proposal fixes.

By Heidi Reid

DMV FRUSTRATIONS just got receipts: Two audits released in August validate long-standing concerns, prompting NC State Auditor Dave Boliek to recommend splitting the DMV from the Department of Transportation entirely.

Giving new context to the department’s well-documented challenges, the audits found the average DMV visit clocks in at one hour and 15 minutes, and ~13% taking over two-and-a-half hours. And to try to sidestep those waits, nearly half skip their local office for a farther one.

Boliek emphasized that the economic toll of such inefficiencies— including missed work and school days—calls for immediate intervention. So, what exactly would a DMV/DOT breakup fix?

Relax. Recenter. Reset.

The audit cites “structural challenges” tied to the DMV’s current status as a DOT division: no financial autonomy, little say in statewide decisions and a lack of performance tracking.

Book a personalized spa experience designed to leave you feeling rebalanced for Fall.

“DOT needs the DMV, not the other way around,” said Boliek, noting that while the DMV reins in 30% of NCDOT revenue, it receives just 3% of that funding in return.

Despite NC’s population growing by 2.5 mill over the last 15 years, the state has only added 52 license examiner positions—160 still sit vacant.* Boliek proposed the General Assembly add 40 more examiners and introduce market-based salaries to combat chronic staffing shortages and employee burnout.

Meanwhile, a new law signed by Gov. Josh Stein suspends the expiration of Class C driver’s licenses, allowing them to remain valid for driving purposes for up to two years post-expiration date. That said, the law does not address ID requirements for air travel, alcohol purchases or loan applications—meaning a haul to the DMV may still be in your future.

4204 Six Forks Road · Raleigh (919) 755-8111

*As of press time SEPTEMBER 2025 | 23

BUZZ don’t have all the details on the effects of plastic intake, most can agree they're not positive, with some even sounding the alarm on microplastics as a public health crisis.

But determining the net harm of microplastics proves difficult thanks to about 10,000 unique chemicals utilized/employed in plastics production, including additives that enable their strength and flexibility.

Over 2,400 are of potential concern, per the California State Water Resources Control Board.

Forget Atkins or keto. What is more concerning than indulging in a sugary snack or a taste of gluten: Adults are ingesting an estimated credit card’s worth of microplastics every week (really). And these sub-5mm microscopic fragments are polluting our environment and our bodies entirely unseen, loaded with chemicals that bring with them a host of potential problems.

But avoiding plastic entirely isn’t an option.

Read: Plastic is now everywhere—from the air we breathe and the water we drink to the food we eat and the clothes we wear. And, in turn, it’s showing up in our saliva, hair, blood and even brains. Translation: We are increasingly made of plastic. So what exactly are these substances doing to our bodies? And what—if anything—can we do to stop it?

Fake Plastic Trees The term “microplastic” was coined two decades ago in 2004 when researchers found an abundance of small rice-size plastic fragments along the UK coast. These tiny shards come from the degradation of larger plastic debris—so every time you see a soda bottle or plastic bag on the side of the road, it’s microplastics in the making.

It wasn’t until recently that the now-buzzword became nonscientifically common.

Alarm rose initially over the amount of plastic found in fish, leading Belgian scientists in 2017 to discover seafood lovers could be consuming up to 11,000 plastic particles a year.

24 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Sushi isn’t the only culprit. Microplastics have been found in an absurdly long laundry list of food and bevs— and are

sprinkled all over the environment, literally found everywhere from the bottom of the world’s deepest ocean trench to the peak of Mount Everest. An estimated 10 to 40 million metric tons of the inescapable fragments are released into the atmosphere each year—a number likely to double by 2040 if we keep treading down the same path.

Now rampant, tiny plastic particles were found inside the lungs of surgical patients and in the blood of anonymous donors, according to a 2022 study. “When I started doing this work in 2014, the only studies being done involved looking for where they are,” says UK marine scientist Alice Horton. “We can stop looking now. We know wherever we look, we will find them.” That is, even in the unborn—we are now prepolluted, with microplastics prevalent in newborns, breast milk and placentas.

No Harm, No Foul?

All this data and discovery begs the question: What are the implications behind life in plastic? While researchers

According to Dr. Imari WalkerFranklin, a research scientist at RTI International in Research Triangle Park, potential health risks associated with microplastic accumulation can impact digestive, reproductive and respiratory health. “There have also been suggested links to health harms including irritable bowel syndrome, colon cancer, lung cancer, dementia and heart disease,” she told RM. Never mind these tiny fragments could potentially act as vessels for other health concerns to enter the body, such as pathogenic bacteria and viruses.

Moreover, how plastics are used can result in even further exposure. Synthetic fabrics (think lululemon leggings and faux leather jackets) often contain plastics and tend to shed and distribute microfibers from day-to-day wash and wear.

“They are notoriously bad at degrading,” NC State Textile Engineering Department Head Emiel DenHartog told RM. “Over time, they’ll break up into smaller pieces—and that is where you will find synthetic fibers in the environment.” But research studying the decomposition of these fibers is accelerating, ensures the professor. The current lack of details on the effects of these fibers, flakes and foams doesn’t necessarily mean doomsday. But the onus is largely on us.

Plastic Prevention

Dr. Walker-Franklin suggests using a glass or stainless steel water bottle, vacuuming and dusting often, avoiding using plastics in the microwave (heating plastic releases harmful chemicals), and using air and water filters to reduce intake.

Following a healthy lifestyle—adequate sleep, a balanced diet and reducing stress—will also give your body the best shot against whatever negative health effects the future may hold. But young, old, rich, poor—there is plastic in all of us, and we are all in it together.

Retail Rising

Anthropologie’s first-ever Maeve storefront—right here in Raleigh

By Heidi Reid

Village District has long been a go-to for both local gems and national names—but now it’s adding something entirely new to the mix.

This fall, Anthropologie is debuting its firstever standalone store for in-house brand Maeve—and handpicked Raleigh to launch it.

Known for its statement-making, joy-inducing pieces and cult following, Maeve has built a massive fanbase through Anthropologie stores and online. The label’s popularity—and strong performance—set the stage for something bigger.

“We have so many communities that celebrate the Maeve style and sentiment, and the Raleigh-Durham market is at the top of our list,” says Mindy Massey, Anthropologie’s global executive director of retail. Village District, she tells RM, offers the perfect place to tell the Maeve story—with a loyal customer base to match.

Now, slated to bow in the former Coastal Urge space, the new standalone storefront gives Maeve room to grow beyond the Anthropologie racks—and officially step out on its own.

The concept marks the latest evolution for the URBN brand portfolio, Anthropologie’s parent company (also behind Free People, Urban Outfitters and more), which has been steadily spinning off its house brands into standalone destinations—and has long had eyes on Raleigh. Village District already hosts URBN’s FP Movement—and is now primed to add another national first to its lineup.

Rob Laughter

It’s a major get for the district—and for the city as a whole. When international brands start testing fresh concepts in Raleigh, you know it’s a market worth watching. And Raleigh is ready. anthropologie.com

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 25

BUZZ

SCAM NATION

Inside Raleigh’s rising wave of hypertargeted, convincing scams

By Melissa Howsam

FORGET UNKNOWN numbers. Today’s scams look like your bank, the DMV, even your boss—until one click costs you everything.

And they’re good at it. Hacks are sending hypertargeted, eerily convincing messages that look legit, but are designed to steal your personal info (and fast). Posing as everything from the post office to a job recruiter, fraud has entered the chat—literally.

One recent scheme involves a text posing as the NCDMV, demanding immediate pay for a bogus unpaid parking ticket, or risk losing your license and driving privileges for 30 days. While the text reads legit, a quick Google reveals the NCDMV will never text or email you.

A similar smishing scam impersonates NC Quick Pass, threatening steep penalties for unpaid tolls. But just like the DMV, Quick Pass will never request payments via text.

And neither will the IRS—which is not going to message you for personal or financial info for you to receive a refund or stimulus check.

But it’s not all petty phishing. Raleigh Police confirm a far more chilling text is circulating locally via graphic, menacing messages from a “cartel” or “criminal org” threatening dismemberment or death unless money is sent immediately.

Your inbox isn’t any safer. Fraudsters are firing off fake emails

26 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

disguised as official notices from Apple, PayPal, Amazon, Instagram, streaming services, you name it—anything to bait you into clicking. The branding is spot-on, the links look clean and the consequences sound urgent.

One local tells RM that during a recent job search, he was inundated with messages from supposed recruiters referencing jobs he’d “applied for” asking him to “reply YES” to connect. Easy enough to buy when you’re blasting out résumés, but it was just a phishing ploy dressed in HR speak.

And, of course, there’s still the phone.

Grifter “credit card agents” are on the hack to verify your card number or CVV, citing phony charges or suspicious activity.

Another Raleighite tells RM she was recently half-duped when a scammer convinced her that her card had been compromised, then pushed for bank login and other account credentials under the guise of “securing” them. Luckily, red flags went up and she hit pause before complying—then canceled her now-compromised card on the spot.

Bottom line: Impersonators are everywhere—and they’re after more than cheap thrills. These scammers are savvy.

They’re skilled. And they’re trained to trick you. No matter which scam you stumble into—text, email, call, fake job offer— don’t let humility slow you down. If they get you, it’s not a reflection of how careless you are. It’s proof of how manipulative and convincing they are. Stay calm. Act fast… and keep reading for simple, practical tips on how to protect yourself before—or when—the next message hits.

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The Cottages at Powell Park

1 5 C OT TA G E - S T Y L E H OM E S IN A N E XC EP T ION A L WES T R A L EIG H L OC AT ION P RIC E D F R OM T H E M ID - $ 6 0 0 S 3 bedrooms • 2.5-3 ba throoms • Chef-inspired kitchens Versa tile loft spa ces • Tw o-ca r ga ra ges • EV-rea dy ca pa bil i t i es Energy-efficient fea tures • H igh-qua lity finishes throughout Nea r Fenton, North H ills & the Sports & Enterta inment Dis t r i ct Minutes from Dow ntow n Ra leigh, RDU Airport, R T P & I-44 0/40

CO TTAGE SATP O W E LLPARK.CO M

911 N WE ST STRE E T | S U I T E 2 0 3 | R A L E I G H , N C | 9 1 9 . 6 6 9 . 7 9 9 3 | D R EF I R M .C OM ©2025 Corcoran Group LLC. All rights reserved. Corcoran® and the Corcoran Logo are registered service marks owned by Corcoran Group LLC. Corcoran Group LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. SEPTEMBER 2025 | 27 Each franchise is independently owned and operated.

BUZZ

Raleigh Mag’s very first issue (!) splashed on the scene, quickly becoming Raleighites’ and visitors’ go-to resource.

Our first recurring TV segment on CBS17, marking a major milestone—bringing our voice and visuals straight to the screen.

Lacing up to walk alongside the community we cover with the likes of the ALS Walk exudes our deep commitment to supporting causes that matter.

Santa, we know him! Every year, RM sets up at DRA’s Downtown tree lighting to take pics of families, friends, couples, etc. with St. Nick.

Celeb chef Ford Fry yaps with Publisher Gina Stephens on RM’s Office Talk pod while in town opening Superica at Fenton.

Our first ticketed event, The Cocktail Classic shook up the scene, spotlighting RM’s best bartender noms and serving serious party-of-the-year energy.

Repping our next chapter loud and proud, our bold new look debuted in style on custom totes at our annual Best Bars bash.

HIGHLIGHTS IN

Cocktail Classic: Sean Junqueira; Best Restaurants: Albright Studio

YEARS When we launched Raleigh Mag a decade ago, there was no blueprint—just a belief that this city deserved a publication that actually got it.

One that didn’t play it safe. One that celebrated Raleigh’s growth while questioning the growing pains. One that gave a damn.

Over the past 10 years, as the voice of Raleigh, we’ve chronicled her rise, spotlighted the changemakers, and captured this city’s evolution, from triumphs to turning points, grand openings to goodbyes—one issue, one neighborhood, one headline at a time.

From our first print-run jitters to becoming Raleigh’s most trusted and talked-about source, it’s been one hell of a ride. So, as we hit year 10, Publisher/owner Gina Stephens looks back back at 10 defining snapshots that shaped who we are—and, more importantly, give insight to where we’re headed next.

28 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Ushering in a bold new era—Raleigh-bred, seasoned Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam joins as visionary force and partner-in-crime.

Our first Best Restaurants Awards Party celebrated Raleigh’s restaurant titans—crowning Crawford and Son as Restaurant of the Year.

RM moves into our fresh DTR digs in the heart of the Warehouse House District, putting us directly in the pulse of what’s going on in the city.

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 29

BUZZ

DITCH YOUR KEYS How three locals navigate living and working car-free

By Lauren Kruchten

As a large central city, Raleigh takes the wheel as the most car-dependent major metro in the U.S. with 38 vehicle miles traveled (VMT) daily—and a walk score dipping as low as 18 in some burbs and averaging 31 in the city. The city is so reliant on cars that parking is at a premium and road construction is ongoing—or planned—for most major streets. While it may not yet be possible to change the tide citywide, it’s rolling differently Downtown.

Despite Raleigh’s carcentric sprawl, Downtown core’s respective walk, bike and transit scores of 82, 88 and 71 are perhaps a sign the city is evolving. And thanks to major strides in bikeability and Bus Rapid Transit—not to mention the influx of e-scooters and e-bikes—it’s keeping pace with cities like NYC and San Fran.

In fact, several residents have ditched their cars—saving time, money and a whole lot of stress in the process. We chatted with three locals living the “urban life” in Raleigh.

INTENTIONAL LIVING When local Ashton Mae Smith’s auto lease ended in 2019, it was a nobrainer not to renew. Having spent the last decade living within walking distance of her DTR office, she’s been in a one-car household with her husband and toddler ever since, spending the last six years walking, biking, scooting, bussing and ridesharing.

“I’m very intentional about choosing my doctors, exercise, son’s daycare and hobbies to be within walking distance,” says Smith, who adds she didn’t drive that much even before getting rid of her car. “That’s my preferred way to get around.”

After tracking her expenses over the years, she’s pocketed $5K a year just by skipping car ownership—savings that are reflected in her mental health as well. “Not having to think about a car is incredible,” she emphasizes.

“There’s a lot of thinking about parking and is it gonna be safe and if you have something to drink do you leave it there overnight… all these things.”

Her toddler’s a fan too: “Half the adventure is riding the bus,” she says. It helps that kids ride free, tap-to-pay is seamless and their high-frequency line runs every 15 minutes.

CARLESS CONFIDENCE “It’s really not as hard as people think,” maintains Fayetteville Street resident Meg Crawford of her carless lifestyle. She ditched her car in 30 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

San Francisco, and four-ish years after moving back to Raleigh, she’s still living that key-free life—thanks to remote work and easy access.

“What’s great about Downtown,” she adds, “is it’s compact enough where you really have everything you need in a quick, easily walkable diameter. And public transportation obviously plays a role in that.”

Tapping into the tools at her fingertips, when walking won’t cut it, Crawford opts for her old triathlon bike, rideshare or even Turo—aka Airbnb for cars—which she’ll use for a jaunt to the beach or mountains.

For her, the upside’s huge: She saves ~$1K a month while hitting up DTR events, cafes and restaurants on the regular—minus the hassle of traffic and parking headaches. To boot, she credits the walkable lifestyle with boosting her social life. “For me, it’s just pluses across the board,” she says. “I’m not sure I’ll ever fully own a vehicle again.”

LIFE SIMPLIFIED For Raleigh Chamber VP of Leadership Development Shana Overdorf, the draw of DTR was about the strong community she expected to find.

“But coming back Downtown meant sacrifice,” she admits—“and so when weighing my budget, the car was the first thing that could go.”

After making the move to Mira Raleigh in August 2024, she hung up her keys in January—a move she calls “freeing” and relatively easy, given her quick 471-step walk to work. While walking is her main mode, Overdorf taps into Raleigh’s full menu of options: scooters (her apartment has a few on hand), e-bikes, rideshares, carpools, the train—she’s even lined up for Raleigh’s E-Bike Rebate Program.

“I think the accessibility to different modes of transportation here— we’re really, very lucky,” emphasizes Overdorf. “It’s not that hard to figure out ways to have access to transit and transportation—but they’re also just easy to get to.” Doubling down on the community vibe, the Chamber VP reinvests her car-free savings by stacking up steps to faves like Sir Walter Coffee, The Bend, lucettegrace and A Place at the Table.

WALK WINS It’s all a sign of a city upping its urban appeal. While a current Village District dweller tells us she barely touches her keys more than once a week, another remembers feeling totally carbound just a decade ago.

Of course, it’s “not all rainbows and butterflies,” admits Crawford.

Getting caught in the rain a mile walk from a destination is less than ideal, and it can take a lot of planning to get somewhere sans car. “There are definitely times where I’d really love to just jump in my car and do something that has arisen out of the blue very quickly,” she adds, “but there’s never so much of a hindrance that I can’t accomplish what I need to. The benefits definitely outweigh the negatives.”

GoRaleigh

IF YOU THOUGHT you couldn’t get away with living in Raleigh car-free, think again. Even in the ’90s, a dedicated Quail Hollow professional faithfully took the CAT bus to and from his DTR Progress Energy post for a solid decade. But that dedication to a wheels-free low-footprint life is definitely rare for North Raleighites—especially in the 1900s—and easily the exception.

BE SEEN

BOBBY BERK VISIT

Celeb spotting! Emmy award-winning TV host, interior design expert and author Bobby Berk visited Tri Pointe Homes’ townhome community Twinleaf Townes June 25–26 to showcase the model home designs, provide insight on their features, and introduce his unique approach using design to enhance well-being.

AS SEEN IN

SEPTEMBER 2025

Bobby Berk: Tri Pointe Homes

BE SEEN

ROSÉ ALL DAY

Yes way, rosé! The Artist Lounge hosted a Sunday Funday for the ages July 20, featuring oysters from live-fire pop-up Buccan, rosé tastings (natch) courtesy of A-Vin-Garde and Raleigh Wine Shop, poolinspired snacks by Two Stunads and all-around impeccable vibes.

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 31

BUZZ

BE SEEN

Cue “Mamma Mia!” One of DTR’s newest luxe apartment buildings marked its grand opening June 26 with a Mediterraneaninspired “Taverna by the Sea” escape— channeling the sun-soaked, effortlessly chic spirit of Maeve.

32 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

RedefineU

MAEVE GRAND OPENING

Raleigh’s New Neighborhood Pizza Spot Everyone’s Talking About!

627 E. WHITAKER MILL | 919.301.8926 TIMBERPIZZA.COM/RALEIGH DINE IN, DELIVERY & PICKUP

M-TH 5-9PM | F-SA 11:30PM - 10PM | SUN 11:30PM - 9PM

NEXT STOP PANEL

Next stop: Shaping Raleigh’s future. Raleigh Magazine’s own Publisher Gina Stephens moderated a civic leadership panel July 28 at Junction West, where big thinkers like affordable housing expert Lorena DioneMcDowell, NCDOT Multimodal Department Secretary Julie White and City Councilor Mitchell Silver joined together to speak on local initiatives for making Raleigh remarkable.

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 33

BUZZ

BE SEEN

CHICKEN SALAD CHICK GRAND OPENING

Like a spring chicken, cult-fave fast-casual concept Chicken Salad Chick concept splashed on the Smithfield scene with a grand opening celebration June 18—raising over $3K for UNC Johnston Health Foundation’s Angel Fund to benefit cancer patients.

34 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

People ARE Talking About Raleighites making moves VENUE MANAGEMENT

MARKETING

BANKING

MONTHLY SPECIALS, FRESH SEAFOOD, & THOUGHTFUL COCKTAILS. LOCATED IN THE HEART OF NORTH HILLS

Kerry Painter

Kristen Englehart

Chris Ferdinand

Convention Center Lifetime Achievement Award

VP of Agency Services

Brasco ///

Assistant VP & Mortgage Loan Officer

BANKING

NONPROFIT

ENGINEERING

Renee Strahler

Mary Elizabeth Bennett

Korey Banks

Intl. Assoc. of Venue Managers

Assistant VP & Mortgage Loan Officer

North State Bank Mortgage Division

CEO

Make-A-Wish Eastern NC

North State Bank Mortgage Division

McKim & Creed

CONTRACTING

NONPROFIT

Seth London

William Arent

Andrea Wun

LeChase Construction Services

Project Manager

Performance Contracting Raleigh Office

STIRRALEIGH.COM • @STIRRALEIGHNC

Business Development Specialist

CONSTRUCTION

Executive Vice President

LUNCH, DINNER AND WEEKEND BRUNCH

Board of Directors Chair

Junior Achievement of Eastern North Carolina

SUBMIT YOUR ANNOUNCEMENTS AT RALEIGHMAG.COM/PEOPLE SEPTEMBER 2025 | 35

BUZZ

36 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

EAT

+ FORKING TRADITION + TAPPED & TROPHY’D + COOKING WITH FIRE

Raising the Bar Photography by Sean Junqueira

Introducing Village District’s first full-fledged cocktail bar, Mr. Henry, serving up the district’s sole post for evening to late-night classic drinks. p. 41 SEPTEMBER 2025 | 37

EAT

The truth is, these places don’t endure on sentiment alone. If we want to keep them, we have to show up—for more than just the farewell tour. That means choosing the comfort of the familiar over the novelty of the new every now and then, booking the table before it’s too late.

Much like the revered Depression-era fish market-turnedseafood haven 42nd Street, many beloved institutions have faced the same fate—pushed out by rising rents that trade the past for progress. Layer in shifting demographics, mounting development pressure, soaring food costs and evolving tastes, and it’s no wonder we’ve recently lost a wave of mainstays—David’s Dumplings, Mandolin and Mofu Shoppe, among others. That’s the crux of the issue: It’s hard to establish a landmark when the literal ground beneath you is constantly shifting—especially without the support of the very community you’re built to feed.

So in a city where the landscape can shift as quickly as the foodie trends, Raleigh restaurants are forced to constantly reinvent themselves to stay alive. But, rarely, a space finds a way to endure without sacrificing its soul. Salvations like Irregardless and Mecca Restaurant prove that preservation rooted in intention can have staying power. In both cases, change of ownership was a deliberate act—a commitment that affirms these aren’t just restaurants, but relics of Raleigh’s soul, sustained by community support and able to serve another set of decades to safeguard the city’s history, recipes and rituals otherwise lost in the churn of development and gentrification.

Raleigh’s dining scene has a staying power problem.

By Melissa Howsam

STANDING IN the five-hourlong line for one last meal at 42nd St. Oyster Bar—just hours before the nearly century-old seafood and steak institution shuttered for good—it’s never been more clear how deeply these restaurant relics matter to Raleighites, woven into the very fabric and identity of her DNA. And, yet, in a city fueled by growth, change and a constant craving for what’s next, restaurants here often feel more like moments than legacies—sizzling with what’s new while struggling to sustain what lasts.

Still very much a city on the rise, Raleigh’s dining culture reflects that forward momentum: dynamic, experimental and shaped by waves of newcomers. We celebrate restaurant launches with fanfare, flock to the next big thing and, before long, wonder whatever happened to that place we loved.

But what we lack is a true celebration of the kind of deep, generational legacies you travel to the likes of New York, New Orleans or even Charleston just to experience.

38 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

We’ve witnessed more than our fair share of outward grief and nostalgia for beloved haunts throwing in the towel—yet not enough bookings while they’re open to help them survive.

As a result, Raleighites can just about count on one hand the number of eateries that have eclipsed the half-century mark.

Sure, legacy takes time—as do concepts that have legs for decades to come. Multi-Beard-celebrated places like Poole’s (2007) and Crawford and Son (2016) are pillars in their own right that show no signs of slowing—and are the exact kinds of anchors identity can be built on. Perhaps we’re beginning to see the signs of battle-tested fixtures, chefs planting roots, and a community that truly values both trend and tradition.

And, just maybe, Raleigh’s moment-over-legacy mindset isn’t a flaw—but a chapter. A potentially short-sighted one, if we don’t learn to invest in longevity as much as we do in novelty.

As our city matures, we may finally be ready to champion not just what’s next, but what lasts. Now, as Raleigh Magazine turns the page on a new decade, we’re more committed than ever to doing our part to extend that narrative—by telling more stories that celebrate staying power and encouraging our community to support it, seat by seat, meal by meal.

RALEIGH ANCHORS

Going strong for 30+ years, these are exceptions in a sea of shortlived concepts or long-loved losses.

Mecca Restaurant 1930 - 95 years

Clyde Cooper’s Barbeque* 1938 - 87 years

Watkins Grill 1947 - 78 years

Players Retreat 1951 - 74 years

Angus Barn 1960 - 65 years

Amedeo’s 1963 - 62 years

Kanki 1972 - 53 years

Irregardless 1975 - 50 years

Piccola Italia 1982 - 43 years

Winston’s Grille 1986 - 39 years

Dos Taquitos 1991 - 34 years

Margaux’s 1992 - 33 years

*Editor’s note: Plans to relocate by end of year

Empire Eats

In these seasoned cities, the community rallies to protect its culinary keepsakes. They’re more than just spots to sample the latest trending dish, ’Gram the newest spritz iteration or tick off a bucket list—and they do so much more than fill seats: fostering lasting connections, serving as the backdrop for stories passed down through generations, and giving locals a sense of belonging that far outlasts the latest trends and headlines, never mind enticing tourists to travel just for a taste. They’re spaces where community roots run deep and identity takes shape, serving as living archives of a city’s evolving story—especially in the face of urban redevelopment and corporatization.

the OG blue facade and Electric Supply Co. signage as an homage to the building’s past, the massive Front Porch-dubbed patio invites new rituals and alfresco hangs—perfectly marrying Raleigh’s eclectic past with her buzzy future.

Power Move

Trophy Five Points set to tap.

John Hansen

By Melissa Howsam

IT’S ELECTRIC—literally.

The highly anticipated Trophy Five Points is brewing at warp speed—now primed for an October opening. And it’s shaping up to be a full-blown game changer for the burgeoning breweryforward district.

“We are excited to become a part of the vibrant Five Points neighborhood,” Trophy

Inside, a bustling dual-concept taproommeets-full-service restaurant unfolds, pouring 10+ Trophy core pours and out-of-state collabs, craft cocktails, and vino selects alongside a more expansive menu building on fan-fave Trophy Brewing & Pizza on Morgan. Think signature palatable pizzas, neighborhood nosh and fresh additions. For the hopthusiasts, though brewing won’t happen on-site, barrelaging beer and spirits are on deck. co-owner Chris Powers tells RM—“and to be making such an iconic building our home.

Over the last few months, we have really had the chance to connect with a wonderful group of neighbors—walkers, runners and families stopping by to check on the progress as we get closer to opening—who share in our enthusiasm for a new Trophy location on that side of town.”

Bonus: A flex Trader Joe’s-size 9K-squarefoot event space adds serious party potential with a Trophy twist, and greenspace out back expands the footprint for casual hangs, private events and even potential activations—all under the watchful eye of a Spclsigns touch-up to the landmark back signage you can spy from the Ajja patio.

Situated in the iconic blue Electric Supply Co. building in Five Points East, Trophy’s seventh and largest outpost is a staggering supermarketsize ~22K square feet—a veritable adult playground designed with mini-me’s and canine co-pilots also in mind. Anchored by

Together, it’s a major moment for Trophy— and for Raleigh at large. “We can’t wait to welcome everyone in our doors,“ says Powers.

A thoughtful expansion that quenches the city’s thirst while honoring her soul, indeed. @trophyfivepoints

    

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 39

EAT

Bistro Reimagined

By Melissa Howsam

“IT’S NOT COMPLICATED,” muses East End Bistrot mastermind William D’Auvray. “It’s elevated.” And, now—it’s for everyone.

LESS CHOPHOUSE and formal, more whimsical and comfortable, D’Auvray is loosening the collar at East End—from the price point to the mood to the menu. Now taking the reins as managing partner, the executive chef behind the cult-favorite Giorgios Hospitality Group concept since day one has shifted the focus, infusing true “bistro” energy into East End Bistrot.

It’s a sign of the times—and how people want to eat now. And the shift playfully, poetically and thoughtfully answers the call for a dining experience that is at once polished and accessible. No longer just a special-occasion splurge, it’s serving drop-in delicacy with a range of refined yet unpretentious offerings.

Having staged under some of the world’s most celebrated chefs, D’Auvray is among the early champions of marrying classic French techniques with Japanese and broader Asian influences—long before “fusion” became a (dirty) buzzword. Now, he’s bringing that finesse to the forefront—not by abandoning what works, but by expanding its soul: preserving the space’s signature sophistication while lowering barriers and creating a space where finesse and friendliness coexist.

40 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

There’s brilliance in the balance: like a citrus-bright sashimi salad kissed with lemon-lime white shoyu, or the genre-redefining black grouper goujonettes with fine herbes–laced tarter that will make you rethink every other iteration. Or the once “secret” East End burger now proudly anchoring a tight list of mains and a pair of Dover sole or Côte de Boeuf “Classiques” for those still craving the full fine-dining hit. The OG biblesize wine book remains on request, but a streamlined by-the-glass list is more spontaneous and seamless.

That nuanced shift plays throughout: sleek black-and-white bistro napkins replacing fine-dining formality, more relaxed glassware and bud vases, Sinatra swapped for upbeat tracks. The lush Champagne terrace is, too, a more accessible ticket, with every dish ringing in under $15—a transportive escape without the splurge. And come September, a buzzy brunch joins the lineup.

All told, it’s a refined-meets-relaxed choose-your-own-adventure culinary unicorn. Terrace or sidewalk seat, lingering dinner or solo nightcap—fit for whether you’re dropping in on a whim or dressing to the nines for a special occasion—Raleigh’s most dazzling dining stage and culinary-theater backdrop still beckons.

More than a business move, it’s personal. For D’Auvray—whose whole pedigree is built on inflecting one cuisine with another—the evolution is about cooking more like himself: less steakhouse, more style. Less formality, more feeling. Less about making a reservation, more about making it a habit.

And in that, East End Bistrot isn’t just serving dinner—it’s rewriting the fine-dining script for Raleigh. One bistro dish at a time. eastendbistrotraleigh.com

Forrest Mason Media

Fine dining, now dressed down for your everyday appetite.

Meet Mr. Henry Village District’s first full-fledged cocktail bar is pouring this month.

By Lauren Kruchten Photography by Sean Junqueira

FINALLY, filling a bar-size void in Village District is Mr. Henry, the latest drinks haven from hometown hospitality guru Matthew Bettinger.

A game-changer for the area, the highly anticipated hot spot serves up a sole post for spirits, with plans to stay open an hour later than existing businesses—bolstering the longtime MO of making Village District an “18-hour destination” with attractions from morning till late-night.

Already setting the bar with the first Village District bar, Bettinger— along with wife/partner Catherine—made it his mission to create a space so that it stands apart from other local watering holes. And the duo behind such spots as Sidebar, Hank’s Downtown Dive and stillmourned C. Grace certainly delivered.

FIRST SUNDAY BRUNCH 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM

WHISKEY WEDNESDAYS 4:00 PM - 8:30 PM

WEEKDAY LUNCH 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM

RESERVATIONS (919) 515-0557

Taking inspo from Ralph Lauren’s The Polo Bar, Mr. Henry’s British pub-esque facade pops against VD’s mod storefronts, serving what Bettinger calls a “timeless design that’s not done elsewhere in Raleigh.”

Inside, polished wood stretches across the arched entry, horseshoe bar, banquettes and beams—even the walls and ceilings—further lending a rustic, moody feel to the space. Robust emerald green paint, playful bathroom wallpaper and vintage photos nodding to Oak City’s past complete the vibe.

As for the ’tails, Bettinger leans classic—think a London dry gin martini, sherry cobbler and dairy-free iced Irish coffee, plus weekend sips like bloodys (served from 1pm). And, yes, Sip n’ Shop bevs will be at the ready. “This is not a place to find the newest technique,” maintains Bettinger—“just well-executed cold drinks.” So whether you’re stopping in for a pre- or post-dinner libation or a midshopping haul treat, there’ll be a cocktail waiting for you. @mrhenrybar

lakesidekitchenraleigh.com

LOCATION

PARK ALUMNI CENTER

NC State Centennial Campus 2450 Alumni Drive Raleigh, NC 27606 SEPTEMBER 2025 | 41

EAT Marc Russell has been cooking with fire for years—and he isn’t afraid to get burned.

It’s what got him into the barbecue world, ultimately leading him to open Longleaf Swine in 2022 with partner Adam Cunningham. Now, having stepped away from that DTR flame earlier this year, Russell is stoking his love of the technique with his new open-fire pop-up concept Buccan.

Raleigh chef swaps brick-and-mortar for live open-fire pop-up concept.

By Lauren Kruchten

Officially firing up at Wolfe & Porter’s Tiki Fest this spring, Buccan—dubbed for an indigenous Puerto Rican-style grill traditionally made from tree branches (fun fact: it’s also the root of the word “buccaneer”)—blazed on the scene with chicken/steak/squash skewers and roasted oysters hot off a versatile live-fire grill modeled after the one used by Aussie culinary legend Charly Pretet of Terra Firma Dining.

“It’s more than just a kettle-style grill,” maintains Russell. “It’s gonna be super-intimate and immersive for the guest—like a showpiece at the event.” The multifunctional grill stand will allow him to flex his culinary muscles to do everything from casual “roysters” a la Tiki Fest to hanging low-and-slow smoked proteins— with plenty of room to play with flavor-packed veggie, tofu and tempeh takes.

“Cooking with fire is the most satisfying form of cooking for me,” he muses. “It’s not just turning a range on and putting your pan down and building a sauce. It’s something you have to constantly manage and tend to for hours and hours and hours—and that’s something I really enjoy doing.”

Over the summer, the sizzling new concept also popped up at The Artist Lounge’s Rosé All Day soiree. And, come fall, he’s turning up the heat on a possible dinner series via the likes of a farm dinner at a friend’s Saxapahaw farm.

“I’m just looking forward to being back outdoors and cooking with a live open fire again,” Russell enthuses. “And I’m excited to have this vessel to be able to do so many different things on.” Get fired up! @buccan_co

SHUCK, YEAH: Buccan chef/ owner Marc Russell shucking oysters at a summer pop-up.

42 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Doubling Down

Stanbury opening new, different concept next door.

By Lauren Kruchten

IF IT AIN’T BROKE, don’t fix it. And that’s precisely the MO beloved North Blount Street restaurant Stanbury is swearing by.

After next-door neighbor Escazu shifted to Gateway Plaza this summer, the hidden gem jumped on the space and signed a lease. But instead of expanding Stanbury, the owners will be opening a completely different concept. Because when you have a masterpiece as unique and palatable as Stanbury—a regular on our annual Best Restaurants list (p. 75)—it only makes sense to mastermind another marvel.

“Stanbury will stay exactly the same and is not expanding or changing in any way,” says co-owner Joseph Jeffers. “As special as it is, I’d rather keep something small and personal as opposed to growth for the sake of growth.”

“

We’ll be doing a completely different concept next door—a concept that we will hone and grow naturally over time as we have done with Stanbury.”

—J O S E P H J E F F E R S, S TA N B U R Y C O-OW N E R

Slated to open sometime next year, the new space will have a different name and menu, which the team is currently plugging away at. “We have some ideas,” teased Jeffers, also noting the pair will “play off each other”—with chef Drew Maykuth helming the kitchen at both. And rest assured, that culinary creativity for which Stanbury is known will keep firing on all burners.

As for Escazu’s relocation, Jeffers says they’re already deeply missed.

“They’ve been close friends and neighbors since the beginning,” he reflects. “We’ve leaned on each other for 13 years, and are excited for their new chapter.” One chapter closes, a new one unfolds—and what’s coming next is bound to be just as unforgettable.

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 43

EAT

44 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

High Horse Is Back

By Lauren Kruchten

When one door closes, another opens— literally. Five years after Top Chef alum Katsuji Tanabe’s High Horse bowed at City Market, the bold, boundary-pushing concept is riding back in—this time as a standalone stunner in a brand-new building set to bow next summer at Horseshoe at Hub RTP in partnership with Raleigh restaurateur Anthony Rapillo.

The serendipitous revival comes after the pair was approached by RTP to open a concept there—marking their third joint venture, following DTR’s Flour & Barrel and La Taqueria at Boxyard, with the restored speakeasy underneath Sir Walter Apartments also in the works. “Anthony and I have been blessed for putting in the hard work and people reaching out to us, believing in our product and standards,” muses Tanabe.

While the OG High Horse’s historic digs lent a lived-in charm, the new ~5K-squarefoot space promises an entirely fresh feel.

Think a standalone show kitchen anchoring the room; soaring steeple-style ceilings with exposed piping; an indoor-outdoorservice cocktail bar slinging throwbacks like cosmos, lemon drops and scratchmade G&Ts—plus a sizable patio overlooking the Horseshoe courtyard.

And, yes, the signature live-fire cooking will remain the star, spanning lunch, dinner and brunch, with a focus on food that’s simple, fun and elegant—sans any gimmicks. Expect returning stars like skillet cornbread and cotton candy, alongside newcomers like a houseground burger; NC grouper finished with a country ham vinaigrette; warm tableside spinach salad; and a seafood platter that trades raw selects for charcoalcooked mussels, clams and crab legs served swimming in juices ready for sopping with Japanese rice or fresh pasta.

At its core, Tanabe and Rapillo’s aim is to deliver entertainment through food—pulling diners in for, say, an hour, only to keep them for two or three to revel in the sexy atmosphere, soulful hospitality and Tanabe’s playful cross-utilization of local ingredients.

“I’m not there to feed you, per se—I’m there to entertain you,” emphasizes Tanabe.

“Everything has to be an experience—from the way you walk in to how the food’s prepared to interactions with the servers.” Time to saddle up again—the bar is set high.

CARLOS MIGUEL PRIETO | MUSIC DIRECTOR

MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH

RACHMANINOFF PIANO CONCERTO NO. 4 and DVOŘÁK NEW WORLD SYMPHONY

FRI/SAT, SEP 19-20 | 8PM

THE MUSIC OF JOHN WILLIAMS

FRI/SAT, OCT 3-4 | 8PM

RICK STEVES’ EUROPE: A SYMPHONIC JOURNEY

CARLOS MIGUEL PRIETO

THU/FRI, NOV 6-7 | 7:30PM

DOLLY PARTON’S THREADS: MY SONGS IN SYMPHONY

FRI, NOV 21 | 7:30PM SAT, NOV 22 | 3PM

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND

CIRQUE HOLIDAY POPS

WED, NOV 26 | 4PM FRI/SAT NOV 28-29 | 3PM & 7:30PM

A CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS

WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY HOLIDAY BRASS

RICK STEVES

FRI, DEC 19 | 7:30PM SAT/SUN, DEC 20-21 | 3PM TUES, DEC 23 | 3PM & 7:30PM

REVOLUTION: THE MUSIC OF THE BEATLES

FRI, JAN 16 | 8PM SAT, JAN 17 | 3PM & 8PM

JURASSIC PARK IN CONCERT

FRI/SAT, MAY 1-2 | 8PM SUN, MAY 3 | 3PM

Great seats available! ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750 SEPTEMBER 2025 | 45

EAT PEREGRINE MADRE

Scrap to Table

Food waste gets a second life at restaurants.

By Lauren Kruchten

Let’s be real: The stakes are high. Restaurants currently waste an average of 4 to 10% of the food they buy before it ever hits the plate— resulting in a staggering 915K+ tons of food trashed each year nationwide. That waste not only impacts the bottom line, but also strains landfill capacities and contributes significantly to methane emissions. And while curbing the waste feels a long way off, change is cooking.

Making a dent in the dump, local spots are stepping up, working leftovers into the lineup like pros—literally churning would-be trash into palatable treasures. Case in point: At Crawford and Son, beef and fish trimmings morph into delightful tartares and crudos, respectively, while scraps from the roasted sea trout entree are repurposed in smoked trout rillettes.

And at budding “east meets west” gem Peregrine, chef Saif Rahman lives by using every part of a product. “I grew up in a household where we couldn’t afford to waste food,” says the celebrated chef. “We were taught to make the most of everything we had.”

He channels that mindset into his globally influenced dishes—blitzing leftover onion skins, scallions, cilantro and the like into 46 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

powders as a garnish and flavor booster. But the real trash-to-treasure star? Peregrine’s chicken crackling: fried chicken skin remnants served with a chicken fat soubise dip.

Meanwhile, Madre is also taking the trend a step further with its cheekily-dubbed “garbage” artisan biscuits. An absolute must-order on the brunch menu, these aren’t your grandma’s basics. Upping the ante on the Southern delicacy, sous chef Lucas Barfield hatched

“

I saw this [sustainability] mindset in the restaurants I worked in, where farmers would bring in products they worked hard to grow or raise. Seeing their effort made me respect the ingredients even more—they come from real people putting in real work.”

— S A I F R A H M A N, P E R EG R I N E

the idea of incorporating leftover charcuterie scraps into a basic biscuit dough last year in a deliberate effort to cut down on waste. And Raleigh brunchers can’t get enough.

Barfield’s genius carb concoction is a nod to the comforting ham and cheese biscuits his dad used to make—a nostalgic reminder of home in every bite. Spotting the overlooked off-cuts of serrano ham, chorizo, manchego, cheddar and salami from flavorful event charcuterie boards, Barfield spied the ideal savory add-in for a rich biscuit dough of flour, butter, buttermilk, cream, salt and honey—a

clever mix transforming simple ingredients into a layered, indulgent biscuit that’s both familiar and unexpectedly complex.

“If you know anything about charcuterie and cheese service, you know it involves a ton of waste—something that is looked over every day,” shares Madre GM Red Brewer. “Chef Lucas’ idea to take the scraps and fold them back into something as loved as a good biscuit is the pinnacle of Madre mentality.”

Taking a note from the to-die-for biscuit’s sustainability factor, Barfield says Madre tries to cross-utilize unused scraps in other areas of the menu—or for staff meals. “We avoid throwing anything away as much as possible,” he emphasizes, with Brewer adding sustainability is a core value of the restaurant.

So, as Raleigh’s chefs turn scraps into stars, the city is quietly reshaping how we think about food and waste. This movement—rooted in respect, creativity and sustainability—isn’t just a trend, it’s becoming a way of life, proving that small changes in the kitchen can ripple out to big change on our plates and beyond.

Restaurants Transforming Food Waste Across the Country SHIA | DC Shuggie’s Trash Pie | San Fran SingleThread | Healdsburg, CA Sullivan Scrap Kitchen | Denver Vespertine | Culver City, CA

From left: Patrick Shanahan; Red Brewer

ONE MAN’S TRASH is another man’s… next big food trend. In kitchens across the globe— and right here in Raleigh—chefs are giving scraps a glow-up, transforming would-be waste into craveworthy dishes and drinks.

Dubbed “upcycled cuisine” or “zero-waste cooking,” the movement is gaining serious traction as sustainability shifts from buzzword to business model—especially in cities like Denver, Portland, NYC and DC, where dodging food waste is top of mind (see sidebar).

Bloc Party Innovative and exclusive bar and restaurant to join DTR development.

By Lauren Kruchten

A LONG-VACANT ground-floor retail space at Bloc[83] is finally getting a tenant. Set to fill just over 6,000 square feet of the twotower development that now houses Dram & Draught, Incendiary Brewing Co., and Vic’s Pizzeria is 83 SOUTH, a brand-new “night on the town” experience from triple threat G. Brooks Splawn, Banks Sinclair and Luke Hanson, slated to open in the building housing First Watch sometime next year (fingers crossed for March).

The trio came together in 2023 with the idea of curating the reimagined restaurant and bar—since tapping local restaurateur Anthony Rapillo and Top Chef alum Katsuji Tanabe to consult after spending many a business meeting at the duo’s DTR restaurant Flour & Barrel.

So dubbed for its location at Bloc[83], 83 SOUTH technically combines two commercial properties into one—setting the stage for a “thought-provoking, grown and sexy atmosphere,” says Rapillo, with varying elevated spaces upping the cool factor. He teases two huge bars, private dining and a wine room.

A bona fide day-to-night destination, the hot spot will feature lunch, a vibey DJ weekend brunch, and an upscale dinner menu dishing American-inspired small plates—plus craft cocktails, beer and wine. Come 10:30/11pm, tables and chairs will give way to a sophisticated adults-centric lit (literally—think strobe lights and the like) lounge till 2am.

“83 SOUTH hopes to bring an elevated environment and atmosphere—the likes of which Raleigh has been craving,” muses Rapillo, “where burgeoning ideas can manifest, grow and build.”

Fitting for the new kid on the “bloc.”

19th Annual

NH5K

RUN &WALK To Support Note in the Pocket

SATURDAY

SEPTEMBER 6 ONLINE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. PLEASE VISIT:

www.northhills5k.com TO DONATE OR SPONSOR PLEASE EMAIL:

recreation@tbcraleigh.com

Starts at Recreation Outreach Center 08:30am-10:00am REGISTRATION $35 PER PERSON INCLUDES FREE T-SHIRT

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 47

EAT

FOODIE NEWS Slice, slice, baby! Oakwood Pizza Box’s highly anticipated takeoutonly Capital Pizza Box location is now slinging pies on Wake Forest Road. Look out for a special event space coming soon to boot.

Asheville fave Botiwalla by Chai Pani is coming to Raleigh Iron Works next spring. A love letter to late-night Irani cafes, the restaurant features charcoal-cooked kababs, rice bowls, chaat and okra fries— plus boozy slushies, chai and lassi.

Get your tickets to Flavortown. …

Guy’s Pizza Joint is officially slicing it up at RDU Airport, slinging signature pies like The Guy-talian and OG Hamburger Pizza—plus freshly made to-go sandwiches, wraps, salads, breakfast items and the like.

Patio season was in full swing this summer with the openings of Peregrine’s and Tamasha’s outdoor oases, each with their own new slew of ops to sip and snack on in the sun.

Pour one out for Cornerstone Tavern, which closed its doors after 13 years in late July. Shortly after, two new concepts—The Row and Arcadia—opened in its place.

Skip the backyard grill sesh for newly debuted Inka Grill, a VAbased Peruvian restaurant now open in the former Capital Club 16 space on West Martin Street.

Menu faves include lomo saltado, ceviche, Peruvian-style paella and other authentic eats.

That’s a wrap—literally. After 15 years slinging noodles and folding fan-fave dumplings, David’s Dumpling & Noodle Bar served its last slurp July 13.

Oh, how sweet it is! Escazu moved from its longtime North Blount Street digs to a larger space in Gateway Plaza, still dishing out confections, ice cream, hot chocolate and other bevs. And the former spot is in good hands— Stanbury’s cooking up something new (see p. 43).

West Coast meets East Coast via coastal-inspired K38 Baja Mexican Grill, bringing its popular tacos, fajitas, burritos, enchiladas and more to Seaboard Station this fall.

Just in time for NC’s unpredictable seasonal mood swings, La Terrazza dropped retractable glass walls around its iconic rooftop patio—blocking the weather drama but locking in all the good vibes, tantalizing ’tails and bangin’ bites.

Drop anchor on your boring midday meals and post up at Boatman Spirits Co., now serving up weekend lunch. Expect your same faves from the dinner menu—plus a few new bites coming soon.

48 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Gotta risk it for the biscuit. Allday breakfast, brunch and lunch concept Flying Biscuit Cafe is set to drop its fifth Triangle location at Wake Forest Crossing on Capital Boulevard soon.

Midday vibes, Napa style. Napa Bistro & Wine Bar recently rolled out lunch and brunch, serving up classic weekend faves like quiche, chicken and waffles, and Benedict.

An offer you can’t refuse: Beloved Omaha, Nebraska-based franchise Godfather’s Pizza is making its return to Raleigh with a new slice of real estate on Glenwood Ave. this fall.

Alexa, play “Good Graces” by Sabrina Carpenter—and brace yourself for good eats and drinks at highly anticipated market, bar and eatery dubbed, ahem, Good Graces, now open at NHID with a menu of fresh, healthy eats, plus coffee and cocktails.

Meet Hub RTP’s latest G.O.A.T. James Beard Award-nominated Preeti Waas’ boutique bodega Nanny Goat is the first concept to bow at Horseshoe, dishing chefprepared meals, local artisan goods, fresh produce, baked items, coffee, beer and wine, gifts, and specialty imported goods.

Nothing’s common about Charlotte-born deli, bar and bottle shop The Common Market, adding to its Triangle roster with a Seaboard Station spot in early 2026. Expect a full-service bar, coffee, grab-and-go meals, beer and wine, grocery items and local goods.

Inka Grill: DRA; The Common Market: Graham Worth; Boatman: Forrest Mason; Nanny Goat: The Plaid Penguin; Guy’s Pizza Joint: RDU; LRB: Stacey Sprenz

Tea time, anyone? In not-so-little news, DTR coffee shop Little Native expanded with hidden “speakTEAsy” Littlest Tea Room and maker space/retail outpost Littlest Shoppe.

FOODIE NEWS Cowabunga! Lawrence Barbecue closed its Boxyard RTP chapter with a bang, delivering one last superior service in early August before its move to upcoming digs in downtown Cary.

We’ll always have Paris… and, by late this year, Fenton will have Sweet Paris Crêperie, specializing in crêpes (natch) and other sweet and savory Frenchinspired dishes.

Chef Michael Lee is on a roll, switching up his M Test Kitchen at Fenton to M Izakaya, featuring an updated menu, interior renovations and a new sushi menu coming soon.

Let’s ~taco~ ’bout “Better Mex” on deck. Del Taco opened its firstever Triangle eatery earlier this summer in Durham—begging locals to flock for burritos, tacos, quesadillas and more.

Taste the rainbow of vibrant Mexican flavors at Cary’s new Meche Cocina Mexicana, serving up classics and twists like tuna tlacoyos, quesabirria tacos, ceviche and chilaquiles nachos—plus margs and other ’tails to match.

Rewriting your morning routine: Narrative Coffee just opened its first permanent location in downtown Durham, pouring tasty lattes, matcha, chai and other morning bevs to jump-start your day.

Lunch on this: Magnolia Grill alum Amanda Orser is bringing serious sandwich game to Durham with LRB Provisions, set to open later this summer.

The neighborhood shop will spotlight local farms and purveyors, plus housemade meats and other from-scratch staples.

Slurp on this: Locally loved Peri Brothers Pizza bowed modern Peri Brothers Italian next door, plating homemade pasta and comforting apps + mains, paired with curated wines and craft cocktails in a natural light-flooded space that strikes the perf balance between classy and moody—ideal for fam dinners, date nights and everything in between.

THE TACO: EVOLVED

SO RIGHT IT’S WONG Wong’s Tacos is the best of both worlds brought together but never forgetting the sanctity of either.

Not just Chinese. Not just Mexican GlenLake • 4251 Parklake Ave • wongstacos.com SEPTEMBER 2025 | 49

EAT

PM 6 T A S Y A WEDNESD ARK P N W O T D IN MI T8 C O – 3 T SEP

TUESDAYS AT 9:30AM THE COMMONS SEPT 23 – OCT 28

Saturday, Sept 27 at 4PM Midtown Park

SATURDAYS AT 8AM IN THE COMMONS APR 12 to NOV 1

DON’T MISS THE FALL FUN AT NORTH HILLS 50 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

To explore these events and more scan the QR code →

DO

+ INCOMING IMPROV + GOING FOR GOLD + GIRLS ONLY

Chris Facey

CHAINED TO THE RHYTHM

Skate Raleigh is returning to Hopscotch Music Fest for its third spin—this time ramping things up on Martin Street. Kicking off the weekend with a BMX show Thursday night, BMX celeb and professional park builder John Saxton takes on pro-level ramps with a crew of top-tier riders in tow. Friday dials up the energy with a BMX jam and street disco, with a classic skateboarding competition on Saturday rounding out the weekend—complete with a Red Bull-sponsored cash prize for best trick. With Oak City Soul spinning tunes and New Belgium pouring bevs, Martin Street has your Hopscotch weekend bucket list on lock. skateraleigh.com —Heidi Reid SEPTEMBER 2025 | 51

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NEW & NEXT

SEPTEMBER

By Elyse Waters

9/6–7 ROCK YOUR WORLD Prepare to have your world rocked at Fenton—literally. A new event Saturday beckons with an elegant dinner and live music, with the annual Sunday fest feat. free tunes, kids’ activities, a military tribute and much more. hopeforhaitifoundation.com

THROUGH 1/11 BLUE WHALES Whale, whale, whale... what do we have here? A 400,000-pound behemoth, an immersive whalesong chamber and interactive games? See ya at the globe. naturalsciences.org

9/5, FRIDAYS & SUNDAYS TRUE CRIME TOUR A history lesson, but make it heinous. Uncover the darkest parts of Raleigh’s dark side—from serial killers to scandal—plus all the Oak City scaries you can handle. trianglewalkingtours.com

9/6 BEER GARDEN CONCERT SERIES Rock out at Glass Jug’s ~Electric Garden~ series for some live bands, craft brews, killer food trucks and vibes on vibes. glass-jug.com 9/5 TRIBUTE TO TOM PETTY Former bandmates Charlie Souza & Shawn Scheller are free fallin’ into Bowstring, ready to crank up the grooves and keep the Petty spirit alive. raleigh.bowstringbrewyard.com 9/5–6 BOBBY LEE When it comes to curing a dull weekend, laughter is the best medicine—and this popular actor, podcaster and stand-up comedian is the perf LOL antidote. improv.com 52 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

9/6–9/7 NC MONSTER TRUCK WARS Monster trucks, quad wars, power wheels—pure mayhem roars into Raleigh’s fairgrounds for one wild weekend of high-flying, groundshaking, fam-friendly chaos. monstertrucks.fun

9/6 NC STATE FOOTBALL VS. VIRGINIA The Wolfpack enters a royal battle worth howling about. gopack.com

9/7 YOGA ON THE BLOC Get bendy—and energized— at Bloc[83] with a double dose of stretches and sips from 321 Coffee, plus post-flow live music. yogasix.com 9/7, 14, 21 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES BYO blanket, food and drinks to Fred Fletcher Park for a chill Sunday funday feat. live music from SWAG, Blue Notes and the Tune Swingers, respectively. No scaries here! raleighnc.gov

9/11 ADAM SANDLER Grab your big shorts and tees and head to the Lenny for Adam Sandler’s You’re My Best Friend Tour. Putting the “happy” in Happy Gilmore, the comedic icon’s ready to roast, riff and wreck you with laughs. lenovocenter.com

Hopscotch: Rodney Boles; Adam Sandler: Scott Yamano

9/4–6

HOPSCOTCH MUSIC FESTIVAL Hop to the 15-year-strong indie + experimental fest that turns Downtown Raleigh into a sonic playground. hopscotchmusicfest.com

9/7 BENSON BOONE Prepare to flip out—the rising star and American Idol alum is bringing his signature pop hits and offbeat energy to Lenovo.

Moonbeam ice cream not included. lenovocenter.com

9/17 MAREN MORRIS If you could use a love song... boots on, volume up as the rising Queen of Country takes us to church at Koka Booth and belts ballads you just knew you needed. boothamphitheatre.com

9/10, 17, 24 THE MIDWEEK MARKET Why wait till Sunday for a reset? Hit the Moore Square market for fresh finds from farmers, artisans and the like—from last-minute dinner fixes to home vibe upgrades. themidweekmarket.com

9/11, 25 PATIO SERIES

Start your week off on a high note by unwinding in the sunshine on VD’s Starbucks patio with tunes from ball player-turned-songwriter Kerry Long and guitarist Cody Daniel. shopvillagedistrict.com

9/11–28 RAYMONDA VARIATIONS All signs ~pointe~ to the Carolina Ballet! Kick off the season with Balanchine’s dreamiest work— served with precision, passion and just the right amount of drama. carolinaballet.com

9/13 SOLA HOT MINI 5K An obvious hole in one: Sign up to pound the pavement around one of Raleigh’s favorite coffee shops + raise money for ALS research.

Since its start almost a decade ago, the annual race has raised $792K (!). solacoffee.com

9/13 FOOD TRUCK RODEO This ain’t their first rodeo! Saddle up and slip on your stretchy pants for a feast of a day on Fayetteville Street, complete with a fleet of local food trucks dishing sweet and savory snacks—plus bevs, DJs, vendors, facepainting and water slides to settle the stomach. shoplocalraleigh.org

9/16 COFFEE & CULTURE Start your day steeped in culture and community at Marbles as United Arts Wake County hosts a vibrant morning celebration— complete with a performance

by Enloe High’s a cappella choir and the presentation of the second annual Wake County Arts Champion Award. unitedarts.org

9/13 THE PROMISE WALK Every step counts. Lace up for a fam-friendly stroll at Pullen Park to support the Preeclampsia Foundation’s fight for healthier pregnancies. preeclampsia.org

9/16 THE LUMINEERS Ho… Hey! Get ready to sing, sway and feel all the feels as the Mile High City’s finest roll into the Creek with their signature footstomping folk and soul-bearing melodies. livenation.com

9/18 LUNCHBOX LECTURES “Feed your belly and your brain” at the COR Museum via a riveting lunchtime discussion that’s sure to leave you hungry for more insight, inspiration and intellectual fuel. downtownraleigh.org

9/19 BALLS VS. CANCER Game on, Cancer! Twins Randy and Jason Sklar—joined by guest podcasters Joe Ovies and Joe Giglio—go head-tohead with testicular cancer, the American Cancer Society’s ballsiest battle yet. Sports, comedy, and real talk? All on the table. therialto.com

13

Laurie Berkner: JaymeThornton

9/13 BILLY CURRINGTON + KIP MOORE You “must be doin’ somethin’ right” if you’re at Red Hat as the country-rock duo cranks up the summer nostalgia with their twofer tour, accompanied by special guest Marlon Funaki. redhatampitheather.com 9/13 BIRDING WITH WAKE AUDUBON SOCIETY Kill two birds with one stone by joining in on NCMA’s guided birdwatching venture through the Museum Park’s outdoor art pieces.

Mother Nature never looked so good. ncartmuseum.org

9/14 LAURIE BERKNER LIVE Move over Wiggles—the “Queen of Kids’ Music” is stopping at Koka Booth for a high-energy, singalong-fueled fest made for mini movers.

Dancing shoes encouraged. boothamphitheatre.com SEPTEMBER 2025 | 53

DO 9/19 919 DAY CELEBRATION Celebrate the best area code at NC State’s Centennial Campus via this annual celebration featuring performances from headliner Chatham County Line, food trucks, vendors and yard games.

9/19–21 PETE SMACK Take to the Theatre Raleigh Arts Center for some Smack talking to see the Last Man Standing— literally—an uproarious oneman stand-up comedy show by the relatable 56 YO dishing a can’t-miss roller coaster of emotion. eventbrite.com

20 9/20 ASIA FEST Bold, bright and anything but boring, Koka Booth goes full throttle with Asian culture on blast—think 100+ displays, games and hands-on fun; realdeal street food by local chefs; riveting live performances; and that epic signature dragon boat race. East meets electric, indeed. boothampitheatre.com 9/20 BYE BYE SUMMER JAMAICA EDITION Say “see ya” to hot and humid days by donning your most vibrant Caribbean-style ’fit for live jams, bouncy houses, games, arts and crafts, face painting, and food trucks. A proper summer sendoff. raleighnc.gov 9/20 DYLAN GOSSETT The Texas troubadour comes straight off a TikTok rise—and the Billboard Top 100—to bring his honky-tonk spirit to The Ritz. livenation.com

9/20 BUGFEST Bug out at the NC museum of Natural Sciences’ biggest and buzziest event of the year—think 100+ exhibits and activities all about the order Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths). Sounds pretty fly to us! naturalsciences.org 9/20 NCMA ART BOOK FAIR Oh, the nostalgia! The book fair of your youth returns in the form of NCMA’s End Paper event featuring artist books, prints, zines, broadsides, photo books and more from local artists and booksellers. ncartmuseum.org

9/23 MT. JOY Dive into raw anthems packed with dirty love, unshakable grit and silver linings. boothampitheatre.com

9/21 CANES 5K Lace up, Caniacs! Celebrate the start of hockey season by pounding the pavement around Lenovo Center while interacting with Canes players and enjoying inflatables, Kona Ice and more. nhl.com

9/24 CANES VS. PANTHERS (PS) Stormy surges past the cats in a battle on ice. nhl.com

24

9/24, ONGOING KARAOKE WEDNESDAYS Craving some comforting chaos?

Head underground for vibey feels, cold drinks and mic drop moments—loud, proud and the most fun you’ll have midweek. neptunesraleigh.com

9/24 VANCE JOY Ride the indie-folk under the stars at boothampitheatre.com

riptide Booth.

9/21 LA FIESTA DEL PUEBLO Viva la fiesta! Fayetteville Street goes full flavor for NC’s largest Latinx celebration feat. a lineup of authentic cuisine, killer visual arts and live acts, and all the heritage you can handle. elpueblo.org

9/22 CANES VS. LIGHTNING (PRESEASON) A showdown sure to stir up a Tampa storm. nhl.com

54 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

9/20 MIDTOWN MUSIC FEST Turn your weekend all the way up at North Hills’ Midtown Music Fest—an all-day jam featuring food trucks, bev tents, artisan vendors and a stacked lineup of live local and regional acts bringing the beats across every genre. visitnorthhills.com

9/26 TATTOO ARTS FEST Ink it up, Raleigh! The fourth annual Tattoo Arts Festival is back at Raleigh Convention Center— packed with tats, piercings, live art and killer entertainment.

Come for the flash, stay for the vibe. No regrets, just good ink. villainarts.com

9/28 DIVINE + DELECTABLE DESSERT FEST Sugar rush meets street fest— don’t miss this treat. Satisfy your sweet tooth in Moore Square by digging into NC’s best desserts, food trucks, craft drinks, live jams & shopping galore. Aw, sugar, sugar. pomonapopups.com

9/25 SUNSET SOCIAL Bask in golden-hour vibes backdropped by The Bend’s expansive twinkle-lit deck as you sip and shop one-of-a-kind art, pottery, sweet treats, clothing, small-batch goodies and more. popupraleigh.com 9/24–10/5 WHAT WE LEAVE BEHIND Equal parts heartbreak, humor and healing—post up for a onewoman show that lays bare the brutal beauty of life with chronic illness. theatreraleigh.com

9/26 SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 3 Race over to Moore Square for a free outdoor film and pre-movie play feat. crafts, challenges, shopping and food trucks revving up the vibes—where fun hits full throttle. ncartmuseum.org

9/26 X AMBASSADORS Alt-rock anthems and raw power—feel Unsteady at The Ritz. livenation.com

9/28 GREAT GREYHOUND WALK Let the dogs out for a romp around NCMA‘s Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park as thousands all over the world come together to celebrate sighthound breeds. greatglobalgreyhoundwalk.co.uk

9/27 NC STATE FOOTBALL VS. VIRGINIA TECH Pack turns Hokies to hushpuppies. gopack.com

28 9/28 CANES VS. PREDATORS Storm warning: Canes blow the Preds straight back to NashVegas. nhl.com

9/29 WWE RAW The ring is calling! Monday Night RAW brings the smackdown via powerbombs, pop-offs and pure chaos feat. Jey Uso, Becky Lynch, Gunther, Seth Rollins & more.

Don’t tap out—this lineup does not play. lenovocenter.com

9/25 WHISKEY OR BOURBON? Unlock your inner whiskey whisperer with a deep dive into the sips’ diverse styles—plus insider secrets on production, pricing and perfect pairings— at The Loading Dock. vitishouse.com

Whiskey/football: AlenKadr - stock.adobe.com

26 9/26 TRIBUTE TO ADELE Deep feels and candlelight as Adele hits echo—go set fire to the rain. feverup.com 9/26 EXPRESS LIBRARY CHESS CLUB Check mate! Sharpen your game or start fresh—your move. wake.gov

9/27 RALEIGH TAMALE FESTIVAL Hot take: Spice up your afternoon at Moore Square with a full-on celebration of the iconic dish—think food trucks serving bold bites, local vendors, hands-on activities and friendly comps that bring the heat (and the heart). raleighnc.gov SEPTEMBER 2025 | 55

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d n A , s e Y

By Abigail Mason

What do you get when you mix quick wit, no script and a room full of strangers? An evening at Leela Improv Theatre—Raleigh’s newly bowed hub for off-the-cuff creativity, community and connection.

After more than two decades serving the vibrant San Fran arts scene, the freestyle stage has expanded to the local scene, bringing its signature blend of heart-centered improv and inclusive programming to the East Coast.

The mission? To create a welcoming space where artists, pros and anyone curious about going on the fly can grow, laugh and find connection—onstage and off.

“At Leela Raleigh, we want people from all walks of life to feel seen, heard and valued— whether they’re taking a class, performing onstage or simply showing up to connect,” says Leela co-founder and Artistic Director Jill Eickmann, who runs the show with cofounder and Executive Producer Christopher Eickmann. “We aim to offer Raleigh something distinct: a home for unscripted theater that celebrates vulnerability, transformation and joyful co-creation.”

We caught up with Jill about the theater’s cross-country jump, unique approach to 56 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

improv, and why “Yes, and” is more than just a phrase—it’s a powerful mindset for personal and professional growth.

Why Raleigh? Raleigh stood out as a city full of energy, growth and possibility—a place where creativity, innovation and community are blossoming. Post-pandemic, we’ve seen a real need for spaces where people can connect, express themselves freely and feel a genuine sense of belonging. An improv theater can serve as an important ‘third place’—not work, not home, but a space where you can build meaningful connections within your community.

What’s in store at a Leela class? Our classes are inclusive, playful and intentionally supportive. Whether you’re brand new to improv or have years of experience, we meet you where you are. We start with breath, presence and connection. From there, we build ensemble, trust and confidence through accessible, joyful exercises and scene work.

Most of all, you can expect to laugh, learn and feel seen—as an artist and as a person.

Why improv? Improv teaches us to listen, collaborate and respond with curiosity.

It strengthens confidence, creativity and emotional intelligence. Whether someone is navigating a career shift, building stronger relationships, leading a team or simply seeking more presence in daily life, improv offers a

safe, joyful space to practice skills that are vital for both personal and professional growth.

What makes Leela’s method stand out? Our emphasis on connection: to self, to scene partners and to the ensemble as a whole. Many of our students describe their experience at Leela as life-changing because it goes beyond simply ‘being funny’ and invites deep, meaningful, joyful play. And if your goal is to develop your funny, we’ve found the biggest laughs come from the honest human discoveries we make in the moment.

What’s “Yes, and” all about? ‘Yes, and’ is a fundamental principle in improv. This phrase encourages performers to accept and build upon each other’s ideas, fostering collaborative and spontaneous scenes. That mindset also extends beyond the stage, supporting a community-minded mission where all voices are valued as meaningful contributions.

On the horizon? While our current focus is on classes, workshops and community jams… we’ll begin offering a variety of shows— from musical improv and classic formats performed at our San Francisco theater to unique ensemble creations developed here in Raleigh. Our long-term vision includes transforming our Glenwood South venue into a fully equipped black box theater with a stateof-the-art lighting and sound system.

Forks Up

Wake Tech cooks up Olympic-level talent.

By Heidi Reid

As athletes around the globe train for the 2028 Summer Olympics in LA, a different kind of elite team is sharpening its skills—knives included.

The American Culinary Federation Culinary Team USA is already hard at work prepping for the 2028 Culinary Olympics in Stuttgart—and right here in Raleigh, Wake Tech is playing a key role in the effort.

Beyond opening its kitchens to ACF Culinary Team USA for practice sessions and public tasting dinners, Wake Tech is also proudly sending two of its own pastry chefs to compete on the world stage.

Wake Tech

Chef-instructors Eric Stopka and Josephine Herbert have been tapped to rep Team USA, which Department Head and lead baking instructor Caralyn House chalks up to WTCC’s standout baking program and its semiannual ACF-sanctioned pastry competition.

TASTING TRIUMPH: Score a seat at the ”golden” table Sept. 13 for the ACF Culinary Team USA Road to Gold Dinner at Wake Tech.

monthly three-course meal at host sites across the country—including Wake Tech.

“We’ve got one of the stronger pastry programs in the country,” says Herbert, “and we always bring in three judges who are certified by the ACF”—many of whom also coach Team USA. The pair’s selection was cemented at the most recent competition, when the team’s coaches took notice. And, now, what started as a local rivalry in the kitchen could become a global win.

“The presence of the USA culinary Olympic team in our community is a testament to the strength of our local food and restaurant scene,” emphasizes Wake Tech President Scott Ralls, “and the unique role played

by Wake Tech as our region’s ‘culinary college’—growing the regional culinary, baking and pastry, and hospitality management talent pool.”

Last year’s Culinary Olympics boasted 1,200 chefs from 55 countries, with only the creme de la creme landing a spot on the podium. To prep, Team USA training kicked off this spring, with chefs crafting a

Olympians in the kitchen? Impeccable precision, endurance and drive are all part of the recipe—and come 2028, Wake Tech just may be bringing home the gold. wtccbaking.squarespace.com/team-usa

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SEPTEMBER 2025 | 57

Scene Stealers

DO

Joshua Dwight

Culture vultures, this one’s for you. Raleigh’s upping the drama this year with a smattering of art exhibits and theater shows across multiple genres—shining a bright light on time-honored classics and untold stories alike. So whether you’re looking for a little bit of romance, a rush of adventure, a sense of mystery, a good cry or a reason to laugh out loud, there’s a playbill with your name on it delivering all the feels.

Acting up encouraged. By Lauren Kruchten

CAROLINA BALLET, RAYMONDA VARIATIONS 58 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

september

november

Then and There, Here and Now, through Jan. 18 NCMA | ncartmuseum.org

TINA - The Tina Turner Musical, Nov. 14–16 DPAC | dpacnc.com

Once on This Island, Nov. 12–23 Theatre Raleigh | theatreraleigh.com

Blue Whales, through Jan. 11 NCMNS | naturalsciences.org

Beauty and the Beast, Sept. 9–14 DPAC | dpacnc.com

THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

Dolly Parton’s Threads: My Songs in Symphony, Nov. 21–22 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org

Raymonda Variations, Sept. 11–28 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | carolinaballet.com Stayin’ Alive, Sept. 12 Carolina Theatre of Durham | carolinatheatre.org

Cirque Holiday Pops, Nov. 26, 28, 29 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org

december

Mad Libs Live!, Sept. 12–28 Raleigh Little Theatre | raleighlittletheatre.org Video Games Live, Sept. 13 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org

THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS

Cinderella, Dec. 5–21 Raleigh Little Theatre | raleighlittletheatre.org

What We Leave Behind, Sept. 24–Oct. 5 Theatre Raleigh | theatreraleigh.com

A Christmas Carol, Dec. 10–14 DPAC | theatreinthepark.com

october

The Nutcracker, Dec. 11–24 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | carolinaballet.com

Cinderella, Oct. 2–3 Carolina Theatre of Durham | carolinatheatre.org

A Candlelight Christmas w/ NC Symphony Holiday Brass, Dec. 19–21, 23

The Music of John Williams, Oct. 3–4 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org From top: Manuel Harlan; Joshua Dwight; Matthew Murphy; Michael Gillman

The Outsiders, Dec. 2–7 DPAC | dpacnc.com

Here in America, Dec. 4–21 Burning Coal Theatre Company | burningcoal.org

The Book of Esther in the Age of Rembrandt, Sept. 20–March 8 NCMA | ncartmuseum.org

The Sound of Music, Oct. 7–12 DPAC | dpacnc.com

La Valse, Nov. 20–23 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | carolinaballet.com

Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Dec. 28–Jan. 17 DPAC | dpacnc.com

Wait Until Dark, Oct. 9–19 Theatre in the Park | theatreinthepark.com Once, Oct. 9–26 Burning Coal Theatre Company | burningcoal.org The Seven Deadly Sins, Oct. 16–Nov. 2 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | carolinaballet.com Cinderella, Oct. 17 & 19 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncopera.org A CHRISTMAS CAROL

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 59

DO

CARMEN SUITE

january

The Music of Harry Potter, Jan. 3 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org Madama Butterfly, Jan. 30 & Feb. 1 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncopera.org

THE OUTSIDERS 60 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

march

Red Pitch, Feb. 5–22 Burning Coal Theatre Company | burningcoal.org

Hollywood Hits, March 13–14 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org

Bravo Broadway, Feb. 13–14 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org

Stereophonic, March 17–22 DPAC | dpacnc.com

Carmen Suite, Feb. 5–22 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | carolinaballet.com

Hell’s Kitchen, Feb. 17–22 DPAC | dpacnc.com

Snow White, March 12–29 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | carolinaballet.com

Star Wars & More!, March 28 Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts | ncsymphony.org

Clockwise from top left: Marc J. Franklin; Joshua Dwight; Matthew Murphy

HELL’S KITCHEN

february

FOR THE

GIRLS

From DMs to drinks: adult friendship unlocked.

By Katy Shero

MAKING FRIENDS in adulthood is hard—period. On any given day we’re consumed with exhausting work schedules, squeezed-in Pilates sessions, dinner dates and a laundry list of tedious tasks (NTM laundry). Mix in moving to a new city where you don’t know a soul, and you’ve got a recipe for social disaster.

After relocating from Pennsylvania this summer, I resorted to the internet to find new friends (it worked in meeting my boyfriend!). Of course, meeting people online is nothing new. What is shaking things up, though, is The Raleigh Girls Club—a Facebook group of 23K+ local women looking to build connections and make friends. And, yes, the plans make it out of the group chat.

From brunches and Barre to cocktail hours, RGC’s monthly events are all about strengthening the sisterhood—and one-on-one hangs are absolutely encouraged. Add in a newsletter, members-only perks and merch to boot, and it’s a full-on social glow up.

“My goal was to create a welcoming, inclusive space where women could genuinely connect, support one another and build community,” shares founder/CEO Katie Paxton, who launched the group after moving to Raleigh solo and learning how tough it is to make real friendships as an adult.

Once I joined the Facebook group, I posted an intro about myself—what I’m into and what kind of friendships I was hoping to find. My DMs flooded with so many warm, welcoming women reaching out to say hi and initiate plans. In the first month alone, I befriended four women— and even more through them—with several hangouts already in the books.

“What began as a small idea,” muses Paxton, “has grown into something truly special, and it’s been amazing to watch so many women find their people here.” Personally, it’s taught me a lot about “friend dating”—similar to romantic dating, minus the ick factor or splitting the bill. And in the same vein, there’s plenty of fish in the sea—in a group of gals that big, you’re bound to find someone you click with. So don’t give up—your future bestie could just be a click away. theraleighgirlsclub.com SEPTEMBER 2025 | 61

DO

FIVE OUTSIDE: Retail and recreation on the rocks just outside Raleigh

By Elyse Waters

1

VILLA 19 BOUTIQUE CARY

MONROE BOUTIQUE

From Dubai to your door comes Ashley Hendricks’ brand-new boutique boasting stylish resortwear and neutral essentials—perfect for elevating your everyday with a capsule wardrobe or taking your next vacay to a chic new level. Inspired by the successful businesswomen surrounding her, the fashionista strikes the perfect balance between luxe statements and bold staples via a collection that screams “effortlessly elegant” but whispers “totally affordable” (think: majority of styles under $125). The boutique prides itself in putting timelessness before trendiness, with lasting pieces that effortlessly transition between the seasons—plus shoes and accessories to finish your look. Catch you at the villa?! villanineteen.com

2

PRIMROSE BAR & LOUNGE DURHAM

Ditch your usual watering hole for this floral-filled lounge, where mixology is more than just a passion—it’s an art. From the Instagrammable floral wall and quirky paintings to the colorful wallpaper, it’s giving “garden party meets gallery”—with no shortage of selfie spots or cheeky ’tails to sip on. Becky With the Good Pear brings the heat with her spicy tequila-mezcal blend, while Midnight Confessions’ serves an espresso ’tini twist that promises to keep the convo going. Whether propped at the bar or in one of the cozy seating areas, drinking outside the box never felt so good. primrosedurham.com

3

SIDETRACK BAR & LOUNGE LA RECETTE PÂTISSERIE

iSMASH

iSMASH WAKE FOREST

Unleash your inner artist (or annihilator!) at the fast-growing rage room and splatter-paint experience crushing entertainment expectations— literally. Set in The Factory, local franchisee Aaron Wright provides an experience designed to suit any and all stress-relieving, milestonecelebrating, team-building or new adventureseeking whims. Whether in search of a printer to smash or a canvas to splash, the space redefines quality time for families, friends, corporate teams and anyone in between. Smash, splatter, repeat. ismashusa.com

62 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Primrose: Brianca Williamson; Villa 19: Bailey Cullen Photography; La Recette: Yasmin Ali

4

SIDETRACK BAR & LOUNGE CHAPEL HILL

All aboard your cozy neighborhood bar! Decked out with nostalgic board games and retro ’70s decor, this gem feels homier than your grandma’s living room. Taking the name for the nearby railroad lines, Amy and Rod Anderson invite the community to unwind with bottled classics, rotating local brews, staple cocktails (think mojitos, orange crushes and spritzes), weekly trivia and live music every weekend. Hungry? BYO food or catch the occasional food truck posted up outside. Whether you’re stopping in to see a familiar face, grab a round or play a lively card game, odds are you’re on the right track (*wink, wink*). @sidetrack__lounge

5 ALLEYWAY BOOKSTORE

THE Date e v Sa

LA RECETTE PÂTISSERIE DURHAM

What started in a cozy apartment kitchen has blossomed into the Bull City’s go-to bakery for churning French, Algerian and Middle Eastern classics into craveworthy treats.

From flaky pistachio croissants to savory shakshuka Danishes to inventive takes on baklava cheesecake—and even Algerian street-style stuffed pizza—this charming patisserie delivers serious flavor with every bite. Grab a seasonal latte, settle in and savor Durham’s sweet side. larecettepatisserie.com

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Small Town, Big Mood

AY GETATTW ESVILLE,

CHARLO VIRGINIA

From vineyard views to rooftop toasts and peak shopping, here’s how to dive into Charlottesville’s smallcity soul.

KESWICK HALL

By Peyton Masilun

Nestled in the foothills of the Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville feels like Chapel Hill’s well-read, wine-sipping cousin.

Where Southern ideals and modern vibes meet farm-fresh bites and rooftop cheers, it’s a place where historic brick streets and academic buzz harmonize with rolling vineyards, Saturday farmers markets and game-day bar crawls.

Whether you’re chasing clever conversation, lush mountain drives or simply a killer meal, this small city serves up effortless style with a side of soul.

DO HISTORIC DOWNTOWN MALL Brick-lined streets and leafy canopies set the stage for buzzy local shops and vibrant eateries spilling out onto the block like one big community living room. Expect buskers strumming bluegrass, indie art tucked into old storefronts and plenty of caffeine stops to fuel all-day wandering. visitcharlottesville.org 64 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

EAT JACK BROWN’S BEER & BURGER JOINT THE DOYLE

MONTICELLO WINE TRAIL Think of it as your own DIY wine safari—over 40 swoonworthy vineyards tucked into rolling hills throughout the area, all pouring glasses that would make Jefferson proud. From crisp viogniers to bold reds, each stop serves up sips with panoramic Blue Ridge backdrops, sun-soaked patios and that perfect excuse for “just one more.” monticellowinetrail.com

SKYLINE DRIVE Cue the road-trip playlist. … This winding byway through Shenandoah National Park offers cinematic vistas of blue-hazed peaks and valleys that stretch for miles—begging you to indeed go chasing waterfalls. Pack a picnic, pull over at overlooks and let the mountain breeze reset your soul. visitskylinedrive.org

Exactly the kind of spot you hope to stumble into after an adventure-soaked day, the awardwinning lively dive is where peanut butter bacon wagyu burgers meet deep beer lists— and late nights often end with fried Oreos and new best friends. jackbrownsjoint.com

TAVOLA This intimate Italian gem in the Belmont district plates up handmade pastas and mouthwatering antipasti (burrata and trio di bruschetta, anyone?) that all but demand a second glass of vino. The vibe’s equal parts rustic and romantic, making for the perf place for date night or lingering with close crew. tavolavino.com

BODO’S BAGELS A Hooksville icon, these legendary authentic New York-style bagels are a must on any visit, made fresh daily in-house every day since

1988. Stuff yours with lox cream cheese or egg salad—or spring for a meaty lunch sando with all the fixins’. Real talk: There’s almost always a line, but it moves fast. bodosbagels.com

Zach Phillips Creative; Opposite, clockwise from top: Virginia Tourism Corp.; Keswick Hall; UP on the Roof

DRINK CRUSH PAD WINES “I came, I saw, I drank.” A crash pad for seriously good wines and even better conversations (NTM delish snacks to pair)?

Say less. At this urban winery downtown, local vinophiles pour playful flights while sharing inside stories of Virginia’s grape renaissance—ideal for swirling, sipping and savoring. crushpadcville.com

THE DOYLE HOTEL ROOFTOP BAR Elevate your evening—literally and otherwise—on the chic rooftop of The Doyle Hotel, where craft cocktails complement sweeping Blue Ridge views, and golden hour feels like a built-in filter. With plush seating areas, progressive bevs, local brews and upscale bar bites, the sky is indeed the limit. sizzlingsteakconcepts.com

POTTER’S CRAFT CIDER An apple (cider) a day… Tuck inside the renovated centuries-old stone church tasting room for pours ranging from tart dry blends

POT TER'S CR AF T CIDER

to aromatic florals—all made with VA apples in Charlottesville and best enjoyed under patio twinkle lights with live acoustic tunes drifting by. potterscraftcider.com

STAY KESWICK HALL A historic estate turned luxe resort, Keswick wraps you up in manicured lawns, infinity pool splendor, impressive dining and drinking, and interiors rich with local art. In essence, it’s where Old Dominion heritage mingles with five-star pampering.

Pro tip: Do not skip sunset wine on the terrace. keswick.com

THE DRAFTSMAN Just off West Main Street, this boutique stay channels the hip, art-filled energy of the surrounding area—from nearby UVA and the Downtown Mall to Monticello. No matter where the day takes you, it’s the perfect home base for a comfy and contemporary setting to relax and refuel. thedraftsmanhotel.com

THE TOWNSMAN Cheekily dubbed an “unhotel,” these elegant guesthouses truly feel like a home away from home. No staff, no front desk—just beautifully appointed rooms, primo location, and complimentary access to Charlottesville’s Common House social club right next door. thetownsmanhotel.com

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 65

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66 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

+ UP ON MT. JOY + PAINTING THE TOWN + TANGERINE TIME

STUFF

STOMPING OUT

Free People

Fashion is nothing if not cyclical, and these statement-making slides are back on the docket (p. 72).

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 67

STUFF

The indie-rock band chats with RM ahead of their show.

By Heidi Reid

Quinn tells RM. “To me, that’s the biggest thing.

And, then, you know, we’ve experienced a lot in life since then—so hopefully some of that is shining through too.”

A jampacked schedule is nothing new for the group. Since the 2016 release of their debut single, “Astrovan,” Mt. Joy has been on the move—cruising from small venues (think The Pour House, Lincoln Theatre and Cat’s Cradle) to opening up for the likes of The Lumineers and The Head and the Heart to headlining festivals and playing nationally broadcasted sets.

Their years together echo in their chemistry— reflected in production, performance and dynamic—but their sound hasn’t grown up, only out. And despite the momentum, success hasn’t altered their songwriting process: “Expectations can definitely mess with your head,” he says. “We try to keep it simple—just make songs we love and let the chips fall where they may.”

Despite now boasting a literal mountain of accolades and millions of fans, the Philly-based band refuses to lose focus of their music— their song remains the same. “I just think we’ve gotten better as a band, as we’ve gotten to play with each other,” guitarist and vocalist Matt 68 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

On their latest record, Hope We Have Fun, those chips fell in favor of their classic sound: firmly rooted in rock with a signature indie crunch.

Some moments—like a feature from recent indie breakout Gigi Perez—add a fresher feel,

but, at its core, the band doesn’t overthink their sound.

When asked about standout tracks, Quinn points to “Pink Lady” as the clear fan favorite—and while he is “not really surprised,” they’re not complaining because it’s such a fun tune to play live and jam out to.

And jam seshes are both a given and welcome at their shows, with smooth transitions into covers by everyone from The Flaming Lips to Grateful Dead to Gorillaz.

“We try to bring songs we love to our shows as much as possible,” muses Quinn. But the band finds its way back into their groove.

So, prepare to head to Koka Booth this month—there’s room for everyone on Mt. Joy. boothamphitheatre.com

Caity Krone

MT. JOY SEEMS TO BE everywhere, all the time. The indie-rock five piece is set to play Koka Booth Sept. 23 on their Hope We Have Fun tour—marking their fourth local set in as many years.

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 69

STUFF Sniff out some truly unique vintage and architectural salvage finds at Jersey-based Vintage Labrador’s relocated NC location in Five Points East, with treats and treasures from furniture and architectural accents to art and garden decor. @vintage_labrador Hot on the heels of the 2023 Raleigh Westin, Cary-based CMC Hotels is now booking Hive House—a 45-suite boutique marrying sleek extended-stay comfort with design-forward flair. Exactly what *suite* dreams are made of. @hivehousecary Labubu hunting? Look no further.

Asian lifestyle store Ebisu is slinging popular Japanese-made goodies and snacks on Hillsborough Street— plus stationery, household goods, figurines and the like. @ebisu_raleigh

RETAIL FIX MAKERS | GOODS | HOT SPOTS

Two wheels are better than four! The Bike Library’s permanent bike shop + cafe is now officially rolled out at Platform apartments offering coffee, pastries and pedals aplenty. @the.bike.library

70 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

By Elyse Waters Ready, set, glam. Moxie Salon’s new Ridgewood Shopping Center locale is here to cover all your beauty needs— from blowouts and full hair services to makeup, tanning, lashes and brow lifts. @moxieraleighridgewoodnc

All that glitters… makes a great addition to your ’fit. Popping up at Boxyard RTP’s PopBox September through March is The Luster Lab, an experiential jewelry bar by Latina-owned NC-based Bezalel and Co. serving permanent jewelry, custom charms, engraving and more. @thelusterlab

NOt sure how to do this with the new rules.

Hive House: CMC Hotels; Moxie: JME Photography; Luster Lab: Owl Eye Creative

Getting steamy on Raleigh’s West End, Asheville-based Sauna House is set to make its plunge near Homebody Yoga and The Bike Library this fall— pairing sauna and cold plunge to power muscle recovery and fire up circulation. @sauna_house

Shop, sweat and flex your way through a new class of retail + fitness spots.

Painting the Town

Explo Downtown Raleigh

By Elyse Waters

AS RIDGEWOOD Shopping Center gets a fresh face-lift, one local creative is also decking it out with a brand-new work of art. Enter Charlotte-born, Raleigh-based Denise Hughes’ two towering oak tree silhouettes now “growing on the walls” beside Whole Foods and Drift— with a third set to sprout this fall.

An homage to the City of Oaks’ nickname and natural beauty, the brushstrokes also depict curious animals—think raccoons, birds, rabbits and dogs—as a “celebration of our shared roots, where nature and community intertwine,” says the artist, who worked alongside architects and in collaboration with studio mate artist Autumn Cobeland and photographer Simon Griffiths earlier this summer to breathe new life into the established spot.

Monica Slaney Photography

“The shopping center has been a landmark in Raleigh for almost 75 years, long before the city’s major growth took place,” she adds, “so bringing the center ‘back to its roots’ was the sensible choice.”

And it’s not the first time Hughes has left her mark around town. Calling Raleigh her forever home for almost 30 years, the multidisciplinary artist specializes in murals, oil painting and even underwater swim painting—plus upcycled assemblages that put her passion of taking garbage to gallery at the forefront. “My love of art lies with sustainability,” she emphasizes.

After discovering a devastating video about microplastics (p. 24) in our oceans, the artist took it upon herself to draft a program, take it to schools and let the community in on her junk-to-genius effort. “In today’s throwaway culture, I feel it’s even more important to realize the effects on our planet and oceans,” asserts Hughes, “and to emphasize that all of us can do our part to keep it clean.”

One such green-minded piece, made entirely out of upcycled plastic, is a large-scale portrait of Dolly Parton—one of Hughes’ favorite musicians.

Working, ahem, “9 to 5” during the pandemic, she fabricated the Dolly artwork from her kids’ old toys and a mountain of buttons. Although the music legend famously abstains from purchasing self-portraits, she made an exception for this one—Legos, Barbie limbs and all—which now hangs in the foyer of her Nashville mansion.

Proving that almost any item can be made into a vibrant work of art, Hughes continues to deliver her strokes of genius across Raleigh—and beyond. Color us impressed. denisehughes.com

Where you’ll find the largest collection of locally-owned small businesses in the Triangle.

With free 2-hour parking every weekday in 5 select city-owned downtown parking decks.

Find out more: downtownraleigh.org SEPTEMBER 2025 | 71

STUFF BIRKENSTOCK Boston clog, $169, Man-Mur Shoe Shop

Clog Blog

The style-savvy are embracing this vintage-esque shoe trend this season.

By Heidi Reid

Sorrento sculpture clog, $218, freepeople.com

YOU HEARD IT HERE first: Clogs and other rustic-inspired footwear have tiptoed their way back onto the runaway (s/o Paris Fashion Week).

No longer just a boho statement or your grandma’s house shoe, clogs have clomped out former presumptions and rebooted themselves as a sassy-yet-sophisticated staple. And with wood, suede and even rubber ops for all weather and walking distances, well—it’s a clog world, and we’re just walking in it. So, this fall, dig your stompers out of the back of your closet or slide into one of these local selects.

MADEWELL x Dansko Alina denim clog, $230, madewell.com

CONDANI Winnie clog in black suede, $225, mainandtaylorshoes.com

72 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Courtesy of brands

MATISSE Venice clog, $120, uniquities.com

Spicher & Company pattern three, price upon request, furnishnc.com Maeve platform heels, $160, anthropologie.com

Cava sunnies by A.J. Morgan, $26, edgeofurge.com

Orange Oasis

An overlooked shade is having a moment in the sun.

By Heidi Reid

NO DOUBT about it: Zeppelin captured the soul of zesty orange in five words flat—“Living reflections from a dream.” Long snubbed but impossible to ignore, the citrus shade is no stranger to summer or fall. And this year, it’s the season’s breakout star—stealing the spotlight as the go-to transition tone, from wardrobe to decor.

Surprisingly versatile, the tangy tangerine plays well with others—and is easier to style than you may think. For summer’s final stretch, pair with other brights like butter yellow, ivory or even pink. Once the leaves turn, shift to grounding tones like tan or forest green. And thanks to the pigment’s warmth and pop, it adds fresh energy to any space. Here, find our fave local citrus styles.

Come Experience

THE NEW SONO NEW MENU, NEW LOOK

Bali Mystique, $105, lamaisonraleigh.com

Courtesy of brands

R E S E R VA T I O N S A N D O R D E R O N L I N E AT

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STAUD Elyse dress, $295, uniquities.com

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SEPTEMBER 2025 | 73

STUFF

74 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Raleigh's25 FIGULINA

By Melissa Howsam & Lauren Kruchten TEN YEARS AGO this month, Raleigh Magazine stormed onto the scene with our inaugural issue—setting the bar for what’s hip, hot and happening in the hospitality world. From day one, we’ve dished mustread snackable content on all things bites and bevs—from breaking foodie news, openings and reveals to chef previews, sneak peeks, and where you should be dining and drinking right now.

Three years in, we’ve served up our now-iconic Best Restaurants Issue, which has since become the city’s culinary bible—crafted by a Raleighrooted editorial team who knows the scene like the back of their fork.

Today, what was once a promising food town is now a full-blown foodie destination—with a few restos that may just grab a Michelin nod when the Guide American South drops in November.

With a shake-up like never before, this year’s lot is a feast for the eyes and taste buds. While some staples held steady, many new and buzzworthy spots have redefined the local foodscape and elevated Raleigh’s culinary clout. Catering to all palates, pockets and preferences, our 2025 roster of 20 Best Restaurants—including Best New and Best Overall, plus five standout suburban spots—dish diversity by the mouthful. From playful adaptations on heritage to elevated takes on established classics, these eateries boast the best of Raleigh’s divine dishes, esteemed service and awe-inspiring atmospheres—whether you’re celebrating something big or just hungry on a Tuesday.

As always, we put our taste buds to the test to present you with our 2025 cast. And because we believe “bests” require a little seasoning, only restaurants with some time to settle were eligible for consideration. … Dig in.

M SUSHI

Clockwise: Forrest Mason Media; SpotHopper; Jeff Bramwell

POOLE'S

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 75

2025 Restaurant of the Year ST. ROCH

NO L A-I NSPI R E D

Anna Routh Barzin

223 S. Wilmington St. Moore Square District

For Sunny Gerhart, the world is indeed an oyster—raw, rebellious and razor-sharp. And make no mistake about it, what Gerhart is building at St. Roch (and beyond) is nothing short of sheer genius—and an obvious choice for RM’s Restaurant of the Year. Dishing Gulf grit with a fine-dining finish, the James Beard Best Chef: Southeast semifinalist stretches the bounds of Southern cooking via fresh spins on Big Easy classics. A love letter to the NOLA neighborhood from which he hails, dinner at the buzzing DTR mainstay hits just as hard over oysters and Champagne as a dive through the divine lineup beneath Mississippi paddleboat-clad walls and the watchful eye of Louis Armstrong-emblazoned wallpaper.

Snacks ranging crawfish hushpuppies, pimento cheese and crispy frog legs tease a showstopping spread of salads, gumbo and mains running the gamut from blue crab claws to gator Bolognese. And anchoring the plate with quiet brilliance, Sea Island beans & LA popcorn rice serve up soulful tradition worth savoring. Whether you’re riding the high of a Hurricane-fueled happy hour or settling in for a Bayou Bend–drenched dinner, St. Roch is pure Southern swagger on the half-shell—no pearls, just perfection, and a rightful reigning RM restaurant. strochraleigh.com RM recommendation: BBQ cauliflower 76 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

2025 Best New Restaurant PEREGRINE

CO NTEM PO RARY AMERICAN 1000 Social St., Ste. 150 Midtown

Patrick Shanahan

It’s safe to say no other restaurant has soared onto the scene with the presence, punch and panache of Peregrine—fitting for a space named for the fastest bird on Earth. The brainchild of chef Saif Rahman and hospitality ace Patrick Shanahan, the duo’s first foray is a sensory feast from entry to entree—with style points in spades. Beyond exquisite eats, flawless execution and artful glass-walled atmosphere, what truly sets The Exchange’s flagship ancient-meets-modern concept apart is its devotion to storytelling. Every ingredient, every plate, every interpretation comes layered with a narrative so rich, we’d rally for story cards at the table—only amplifying the already immaculate global flavors and feels drawn from the many cultures that shape America today. Ever so poetically crafted across a journey of Arrivals, Journeys and Departures, the rotating menu delivers a globetrotting tour de force: from Rahman’s interpretations on pulao—Carolina gold rice perfumed with rose, beresta and sultana raisins—to a decadent sorghum-sweetened duck breast crowned with foie gras and enlivened by fragrant vadouvan onion, each dish reads like a passport stamp in culinary form. The ever-so-aptly dubbed Bubul’s Nest serves as the ideal sendoff, a black sesame-flecked and rose petal-dotted pistachio gelato cradled in a honeycomb nest. But the real story of Peregrine’s meteoric rise is how seamlessly it has woven itself into the fabric of Raleigh’s elite foodie scene—as if it’s always been here, quietly waiting for us to catch up. peregrineraleigh.com RM recommendation: Bengali wedding chicken

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 77

BRODETO

ADR IATIC-I NSPI R E D

2201 Iron Works Drive, Ste. 137 Iron District

Scott Crawford’s Raleigh Iron Works resto is nothing short of spectacular—the dishes, the drinks, the digs and the delivery will leave you speechless… and longing for your next visit before you even exit. Taking Raleigh dining to a level traditionally reserved for heralded foodie cities like NYC and LA, the flawlessly curated space balances natural elements with modern touches to create a divine essence for blocking out the rest of the world and focusing only on what’s hitting the table. Paying homage to the six-time James Beard semifinalist’s visits to the Adriatic Sea—specifically Southern Italy and Croatia—the signature sundry seafood-centric fare is rewriting Raleigh dining, from rockfish gregada and linguine al nero soaked in an umami sea urchin butter to the namesake brodeto, a stewlike dish boasting an amalgamation of monkfish, prawns, octopus, mussels and clams. Beverage Manager Jordan Joseph’s coastal-inspired cocktails don’t just complement—they seal the deal on an experience so transportive, you’ll savor every sip and bite till the very last drop. brodeto.com RM recommendation: Tuna crudo + focaccia

AJJA

M EDITE R RANE AN/ M I D D LE E ASTE R N As inviting as the name imbues (aka “come over” in Hindu and Urdu), Cheetie Kumar and Paul Siler’s buzzy neighborhood nook fearlessly fires on all cylinders, feting fab fare and fine bevs while weaving community and local bounty into every bite and sip. Just begging for a gathering, the colorful greenery-filled patio—with a bar to boot—and expansive light-strung lawn lends a homey feel for sharing standout dishes that marry Southern foodways with Mediterranean, Middle East and Levant flavors, all against the backdrop of primo skyline views. Eclectic selects run the gamut from dips ’n’ spreads (the mezze platter is a must-share) to grilled meats and seafood like BBQ’d short rib and harissa grilled Carolina scallops, plus bold, flavorforward veggies—think coffee-roasted carrots, charred cabbage and broccoli, and king trumpet mushrooms—that even the pickiest eaters will be sneaking seconds of. So sit, stay, savor—and save room for dessert. ajjaeats.com RM recommendation: Lemon chicken tagine 78 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Brodeto: Jessica Crawford; Ajja: Baxter Miller

209 Bickett Blvd.

Five Points East

FIGULINA

ITALIAN-I NSPI R ED

Figulina: Jeff Bramwell; Tamasha: Harsha Sipani

317 S. Harrington St. Warehouse District

When it comes to pasta, James Beard 2025 Best New Restaurant semifinalist Figulina is in a league of its own. Chef David Ellis—a Stoke-on-Trent native who formerly helmed Ashley Christensen’s kitchen at Poole’s— takes a thoughtful approach to noodles, weaving Southern influences with his British roots and global restaurant experience.

In place of run-of-the-mill selects like cacio e pepe and spaghetti with meatballs, handmade pasta serves as a canvas for locally sourced ingredients—with the everrotating menu featuring such creative dishes as busiate with NC Shrimp, octopus and squid; and Goat Lady Dairy chèvre, ricotta and preserved lemon-stuffed triangoli in a savory Guinea hen sauce. Situated in an rustic-meets-elevated Nonna’s kitchenlike atmosphere, the succulent selects— together with seasonal small plates, a playful British-esque brunch, palatable to-go lunch and Italian aperitivo-inspired bev menu, Figulina is where tradition couples with fresh perspective... and flavors run deeper than the plate. figulinaraleigh.com RM recommendation: Rigatoni

TAMASHA

MO DE R N I N DIAN

4200 Six Forks Road, Ste. 130 Midtown

Before Tamasha splashed on the scene— making instant waves across town and beyond—many Raleighites knew little of Indian cuisine, save for standard staples like butter chicken. Since, the luxe-feeling spot has unleashed a whole new world of flavor on local foodies across dishes like four-cheese truffle kulcha, paniyaram, crab moilee, and murg pasanda—all crafted

by James Beard 2025 Best Emerging Chef semifinalist Bhavin Chhatwani. That culinary artistry is mirrored and then some by sultry showstopping gold archways, ornate lighting and intricate marble—an aesthetic landing Tamasha a coveted spot on OpenTable and People’s prestigious “The 50 Most Beautiful Restaurants in America” list. And, so, aesthetic meets modern Indian sophistication—and the result is pure class. tamashanc.com RM recommendation: Purple sweet potato, crunchy kale and shiso chaat SEPTEMBER 2025 | 79

POOLE’S

NE W AM E RICAN COMFORT FOOD 428 S. McDowell St. Fayetteville Street District

Nothing soothes the soul quite like Ashley Christensen’s mac and cheese heard ’round the world—featured in Garden & Gun, on Food Network and beyond. Her legendary macaroni au gratin has been a mainstay on the menu since that pivotal 2007 day the two-time James Beard Award-winning culinary phenom swung open the charming diner doors that ignited a local culinary revolution. Dubbed for a 1945 pie shop of the same name and now occupying the adjoining former Poole’side Pies space, the expanded refresh maintains its retro charm with touches of modern flair. Still anchored by such nostalgic touches as old-school leather stools and oldtimey photographs, the new digs lend bright natural lighting and contemporary decor, breathing new life into one of DTR’s most palatable dining destinations for locals and visitors alike. But the most significant constant? The ever-evolving lineup of reimagined Southern comfort dishes—from tuna tartare and crispy fried fish to roast chicken and wood-fired potato gnocchi—all grounded in NC ingredients and the same culinary vision that heralds it as a perennial pick on our Best Restaurants list for good reason. ac-restaurants.com/pooles RM recommendation: Macaroni au gratin

LA TERRAZZA SO UTHE R N ITALIAN & ME DITE R R AN E AN

To dine atop The Dillon is to momentarily forget where you are— until Raleigh’s skyline reminds you you’re witnessing the city’s culinary altitude shift in real time. Part transportive rooftop reverie, part glass-walled shrine to worldly flavor, Samad Hachby’s sky-high stunner channels the polish of a downtown NYC hot spot without losing its Southern soul or Mediterranean flair.

High style without the high price tag, it’s the kind of place where diners slip into golden hour and stay for the seductive glow of wood-fired pizzas, charred octopus, pillowy pasta and that cult-favorite roasted cauliflower you’ll low-key crave for days. Executive chef Jean Paul Fontaine brings worldly, unpretentious excellence to every plate—and while the views may first steal your breath, it’s the food (and that pitch-perfect service) that will leave you floating. Elevated, literally and otherwise. laterrazzaraleigh.com RM recommendation: Tuna tartare 80 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Poole's: Jeff Bramwell; La Terazza: GPS, Visit Raleigh

223 S. West St., 9th floor Warehouse District

BREWERY BHAVANA DIM SUM

218 S. Blount St. Moore Square District

When it comes to dumpling destinations, Bhavana is quite simply nirvana. In a league all its own, natural light pools across glossy white tile, jasmine vines flirt with the air and every corner hums with quiet intentionality. A floral shop, bookstore, taproom and epicurean enclave all in one—and somehow none of it forced—it’s as much a sanctuary as it is a place to gather. But make no mistake: The dim sum is the soul of it all. Bamboo baskets arrive bearing delicate, flavor-packed dumplings—pork and chive shumai, seafood parcels, bao buns spiced just so—alongside mains like lo mein, Peking duck, and tangy General Tso chicken, each one a study in elegance and restraint. It’s a place that doesn’t shout to be noticed, but rather lingers with you long after you’ve left, like a beautiful sentence you want to reread. brewerybhavana.com RM recommendation: Rice congee

JALWA INDIAN BISTRO M ODE R N I NDIAN 6112 Falls of Neuse Road North Raleigh

Riding the local wave of elevated Indian fare sparked by Tamasha, Jalwa brings a bold, nextgen edge to Raleigh’s haute dining scene. Housed in the former Saint Jacques space in North Ridge Shopping Center, the polished newcomer defies its unassuming strip mall setting with quiet confidence.

Top-notch service, striking accoutrements (black tablecloths, backlit menus and table crumbing), dazzling interior design, and dishes so impeccably composed they double as works of art help to raise the bar for upscale Indian fare. A thoughtful balance of tradition and innovation, the menu reimagines Indian fare with flair—think hara bhara kebabs encased in a smoking glass box, a French-inspired samosa chaat, and elegant updates to staples like chicken dum biryani, Kashmiri lamb shank, and saag burrata. Don’t skip the basket of naan or roti to sop up every last drop of the distinct sauces—but no judgement if you ditch the bread and go straight for the spoon. jalwaindianbistro.com RM recommendation: Palak paneer baklava SEPTEMBER 2025 | 81

HAYES BARTON CAFE & DESSERTERY CL ASSIC AM E RICAN 2000 Fairview Road Five Points

Tucked into a tidy corner of Five Points, Hayes Barton Cafe has been quietly anchoring Raleigh’s dining scene for nearly three decades. A testament to its status as a bona fide institution, diners fall in line daily like clockwork. Equal parts nostalgic time capsule and Southern comfort powerhouse, pretense and petite portions have no place inside the quaint ’40s-inspired cafe. Transportive black-and-white checkerboard floors, classic lunch-counter stools, and photo-plastered walls play against heaping portions of soul-warming meatloaf, bella linguini and cosmic cakes. Backed by a dedicated staff boasting decadeslong in-house tenures, Hayes Barton isn’t just serving food—it’s serving a piece of the city’s soul, unapologetically and deliciously. hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com RM recommendation: ”Two chickens in every pot” pie

HUMMINGBIRD N O L A-I NSPI R E D

1053 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Ste. 111 Iron District

Intimate, flavorful and oh-so-chic, Coleen Speaks’ edgy Dock 1053 digs have been buzzing since breaking onto the scene in 2017. Pops of color from neon pink signage to bright-yellow barstools and seafoam green tile lend color to the industrial-esque space, where chipped paint, exposed brick and vintage decor lend it unmistakable charm—while the pastelhued paper lantern-lit patio literally hums with the energy of satisfied diners oohing over delightful presentations and mm’ing over tantalizing dishes. With buttery lobster rolls rivalling Maine’s finest, herby ceviche bathed in refreshing coconut milk, and a brunch menu worth reserving the whole weekend for, any and every meal at Hummingbird is a guaranteed vibe. And while the food and atmosphere are more than enough to hook you, the cheekily named cocktails up the flirt factor. hummingbirdraleigh.com RM recommendation: Pork, beef and ricotta meatballs

SONO ASIAN

319 Fayetteville St., Ste. 101 Fayetteville Street District

There’s sushi, and then there’s Sono—where each bite hums with precision and every perch feels like a front-row seat to the city’s buzzing rhythm. Anchored on Fayetteville Street and reawakened with a recent menu and interiors refresh, the sushi stalwart keeps slicing through the noise beneath a canopy of iconic Japanese umbrellas. Balancing its mod moody backdrop with authentic Asian ambiance, selects ranging ramen, miso with seafood shrooms, heat- and citrus-kissed hamachi, izakaya small plates, and that infamous “roll” call still deliver the drama a decadeplus in (we see you, Screaming O), even without the curated sake list—a whole other kind of showstopper. Proof that longevity doesn’t mean playing it safe—it means knowing exactly who you are. Refreshed but relentless, Sono’s precision keeps the city craving more. sonoraleigh.com RM recommendation: Crunchy Diablo 82 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

MULINO ITALIAN

309 N. Dawson St. Capital District

Tucked into a humble strip of Person Street, Scott Crawford’s first born doesn’t chase trends, it sets the bar—a no-brainer for a chef with a half-dozen James Beard nods under his toque, including 2025 Outstanding Restaurateur semifinalist. Hospitality feels like muscle memory in the casualchic black-bathed bistro—a power player in Raleigh’s foodie scene shift—where every detail is quietly deliberate. Plated with precision, seasonal stunners spanning peach and raspberry salad, melon carpaccio, and truffle aioli-crowned bone marrow beef tartare land on your palate with the kind of elegance that gives you pause—ever so artful, without shouting and without cutting corners. It’s the kind of place you keep in your back pocket and bring out for the moments that matter—or to make the ones that don’t, matter after all. crawfordandsonrestaurant.com

Mulino doesn’t just serve dinner—it seduces.

Draped in string lights and kissed by the glow of the pool, the lush patio pulses with dolce vita energy, equal parts glamour and comfort— where every night feels like a well-staged scene dropped straight out of Tuscany. Whether you’re grazing on burrata over a bottle or tantalizing your taste buds with housemade pastas, stone-baked pies and red wine-braised lamb with risotto, restaurateur Samad Hachby spins tradition with intention—every dish dialed in, every bite transporting. It’s the kind of place where spritzes stretch into hours, dessert might be a second cocktail (get the After Midnight), and the only thing sharper than the service is the blade you break bread with. Locals know: This is Raleigh romance, bottled and poured. mulinoraleigh.com

RM recommendation: Bone marrow beef tartare

RM recommendation: Gnocchi

CRAWFORD AND SON M ODE R N AM E RICAN

Crawford and Son: Jessica Crawford

618 N. Person St. Seaboard & Person Street District

SEPTEMBER 2025 | 83

STANBURY

MO DE R N AME R ICAN

To experience Stanbury is to drift into a sophisticated booze-soaked foodie fever dream—moody, magnetic and buzzing with the kind of energy that makes you want to linger. The brainchild of co-owner Joseph Jeffers—executed ever so deliciously at the hands of chef/ co-owner Drew Maykuth—each visit to the garage-chic brick hideaway is a surprise feast of reimagined fare where the only constant is plated perfection.

It’s precisely the kind of place—and brilliantly rebellious rotating menu— The Bear’s Carmy would helm, with dishes divine enough to close your eyes and point: from char-kissed grilled peaches with creamy feta and sherry vinaigrette to savory watermelon salad that eats like a main to NC striped bass with bouillabaisse jus and that now-iconic roasted marrow, glistening like edible gold. It’s no wonder it tops nearly every short list of Raleigh Michelin hopefuls come fall. Let it rip. stanburyraleigh.com RM recommendation: NC tuna crudo

MADRE

SMALL PL ATES 518 N. West St. Smoky Hollow

A warm, flickering blur of moody candlelight, culinary curiosity and killer cocktails, Madre feels at once like a one-off of a hip Manhattan art gallery, your coolest friend’s living room and the comforting chaos and warmth only your mom’s legendary cooking could deliver. It’s the kind of place where plates are passed, friends are made, and time slows under the soft glow of the canopy light—while candle wax melts poetically down the walls like some kind of slow-burning sensory high.

With Michelin chef Matt Bounous at the helm, the seductive small-plates concept is rooted in community, spontaneity and a shared love of flavorfueled discovery. While the lineup is seasonal, you can count on playful sophistication: think Spain by way of aged serrano, heat-kissed Calabrian chicken, apple mostarda- and mezcal-soaked pork belly that practically melts, and a roasted cauliflower dish so lush it demands its own group chat. And never sleep on the brunch. Whether you’re settling in for a morning Mimosarita, a second bottle to take the edge off a long day or just swinging by for something serendipitous, Madre hits like a secret worth whispering. madreraleigh.com RM recommendation: Calabrian chicken 84 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

Stanbury: Jeff Bramwell

938 N. Blount St. Seaboard & Person Street District

EAST END BISTROT ASIAN-I NSPI R E D FR EN CH 2020 Progress Court, Ste. 110 Iron District

A master of culinary alchemy, executive chef/managing partner William D’Auvray’s fare dazzles from first bite to final flourish. Anticipation mounts from entree onto the lush Champagne terrace before shifting to a bistro setting against sweeping drapes and checkered floors. Serving up flair without fuss, D’Auvray’s latest iterations loosen the chophouse collar while leaning into Asian-inspired French fare with finesse. Think citrus-kissed sashimi salad, vibrant watermelon salad and jade tiger abalone that hits like a revelation—alongside playful plates and meatier mains that strike the perfect balance between decadence and delight. A standout in Giorgios Bakatsias’ primo portfolio with its trademark top-tier service, the next-gen bistro delivers on every front—and continues to push the boundaries of Raleigh’s restaurant scene, proving night after night that the next level isn’t just possible. It’s here. eastendbistrotraleigh.com RM recommendation: Black grouper goujonettes

CUCCIOLO TERRAZZA ITALIAN

4200 Six Forks Road, Ste. 100 Midtown

In a city rich with Italian selects, Cucciolo stands out—in the best way. Cozy with a modern sophisticated edge, its stunning interior is ripe for a weeknight wind-down, intimate date or slow Sunday brunch—with sultry interior lighting setting dark wood and marble accents aglow, lending polish without pretense.

Contemporary takes on classics are anchored in seasonality and intention, resulting in an intriguing union of flavors and ingredients. Housemade rigatoni arrives slicked in a spicy vodka tomato cream sauce made of plum tomatoes and fresh ricotta; flavorful spoonfuls of ground beef stud the hearty Bolognese; and smoked mozzarella-topped eggplant Parm offers a comforting nostalgic nod only your nonna could emulate—simple and soul-warming. Seasonal starters like braised octopus, bruschetta and arancini provide thoughtful pacing, while crisp red- and white-sauced pizzettes make fine companions to a bottle from the well-curated wine list. Awe-inspiring, chic and satisfying to all senses, Cucciolo is a bona fide swanky yet approachable urban marvel. cuccioloraleigh.com RM recommendation: Wild boar agnolotti

NORTHSIDE BISTRO NE W AM E RICAN

East End Bistrot: Forrest Mason Media; Cucciolo: Pam Varela

832 Spring Forest Road North Raleigh

Bringing Downtown uptown—in the best way—the aptly named Northside Bistro channels the effortless cool of a tucked-away NYC corner spot, minus the pretension and postage-stamp portions. Coursing with energy and finesse, the upscale neighborhood bistro strikes that sweet spot between destination dining and local hang. It’s the kind of place where, under the glow of colorful glass lanterns and the hum of a lively bar scene, regulars post up for palatable pours, inventive ’tails and generous portions that keep the vibe going well past the dinner rush. NYC-trained executive chef/owner John Scarangella brings comfort and edge to the table via sauce-drenched seafood, tender beef and reinvigorated classics—from craveable Hashtag Tuna to lush Short Rib Stroganoff—dishing a mod American menu that punches above its ZIP code… executed with just enough flair to feel special without being fussy. Equal parts polished and personal, it’s a place where regulars feel known and newcomers feel seen—where all are welcome to the “northside” to come as you are. But be aware: You’ll want to linger. northsidebistroraleigh.com RM recommendation: Pan-seared sea scallops SEPTEMBER 2025 | 85

Burb HANK’S DOWNTOWN DIVE M ODE R N AM E RICAN

111 E. Chatham St., Ste. A Cary

Redefining the modern interpretation of a “dive” from its stylish warm-hued digs, Hank’s is a neighborhood staple for any mood or moment, with a menu fit for any palate—from a laundry list of seasonal local produce done up in unexpectedly delicious renditions to crowdpleasing lasagna and fried chicken that puts KFC to shame (bonus points: It’s also gluten-free). And, yes, the fried delicacy can and should be enjoyed with a classic pour. hanksdowntowndive.com RM recommendation: Smoked wings

AMALIA’S ITA LI A N

1248 S. Main St. Wake Forest

Nonna ain’t got nothing on Amalia’s. From authentic Italian eats and attentive service to a homey vibe and wine list dedicated to small family and indie Italian producers, this darling dishes homemade pasta, antipasto and meat-centered masterpieces with flair.

Italian-bred executive chef/owner Filippo Fanfani channels his grandmother’s spirit in every dish, all served up in a beautifully restored historic home—where date nights and family dinners collide, again and again. amaliaswakeforest.com RM recommendation: Tagliolini alla ’nduja

HERONS Herons: Anna Routh Barzin; M Sushi: SpotHopper; Crawford: Jessica Crawford

M O D E R N A M E R I CA N

100 Woodland Pond Drive Cary

A Michelin star in waiting, the Forbes Five-Star jewel (one of only 79 the world over) serves a refined feast of layers—where chef Steven Greene’s whimsical platings redefine farmto-table fare. Quite literally sourced from The Umstead Hotel and Spa’s own farm, fragrant flavors ranging famed dry-aged duck breast to decadent foie gras are spun into dishes that balance precision with playful elegance across its recently debuted tasting menu. Part museum, part Edenic escape framed by floorto-ceiling garden views, the quietly spectacular oasis reaches reverie through razor-sharp service—and earns its place among the country’s finest. theumstead.com RM recommendation: Sea scallops 86 | RALEIGH MAGAZINE | raleighmag.com

M SUSHI ASI A N

4 Fenton Main St., Ste. 120 Cary

Masterful. Mindful. Magnificent— whatever the M means, it’s pure magic.

Sleek, minimalist and dialed in, the serene noir-drenched feng shui space is a shrine to precision, from artfully plated sashimi and glistening otoro to umami-bomb broths, buttery wagyu grilled tableside, and lavish lobster shabu shabu. What chef Michael Lee is masterminding at his Fenton foray isn’t just sushi—it’s a masterclass. Just bow and bite. m-restaurants.com RM recommendation: Nigiri omakase

CRAWFORD BROTHERS STEAKHOUSE CL ASSIC AMER ICAN STE AKH OUSE

401 Fenton Gateway Drive Cary

If Crawford builds it, they will come.

The first local steakhouse to debut since the Reagan era, the flavor architect’s Fenton foray blends nostalgia, precision and serious design flex—where primeaged steaks, succulent seafood towers, tuna tartare and wagyu by the ounce play poetically against the sleek edgymeets-moody “glass-curtain” drama and curvilinear cocktail bar. With its signature top-tier service and a killer bev program, this polished “redemption story” cements what we already knew: The Crawford name doesn’t miss. crawfordbrotherssteakhouse.com RM recommendation: Filet with blue crab Oscar sauce SEPTEMBER 2025 | 87

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DINE LISTINGS A GUIDE TO RALEIGH’S FOOD SCENE KEY Average dinner entree price $: 20 and under $$: 21-35 $$$: 36-55 $$$$: 56 and up

How we pick our listings: Here, Raleigh Magazine’s highly curated list of locally owned full-service restaurants, with a few specialty regional favorites to boot. Find this directory online under the Food & Drink tab at raleighmag.com, with a bonus list of locally owned fast-casual eateries.

CAPITAL DISTRICT Mulino Italian Kitchen & Bar $$ 309 N. Dawson St. @mulinoitaliankitchen A simply idyllic setting transports you to the banks of Tuscany, wine in hand, via the likes of arancini Siciliani, red wine-braised lamb shank or housemade pasta dishes, best enjoyed alfresco beside the lush greenery-dotted serene pool.

Second Empire $$$ 330 Hillsborough St. @second_empire_restaurant Stately and sophisticated, the elegant 1879 Dodd-Hinsdale house dishes unparalleled seasonally inspired plates, from the mustorder rabbit rigatoni special to the always-succulent salmon.

Taverna Agora $$ 326 Hillsborough St. @tavernaagora A lively Mediterranean-esque oasis topped off with an open-air rooftop sets the stage for authentic Greek fare, from tzatziki and hummus to flambéed saganaki, which literally arrives at your table on fire.

SMOKY HOLLOW Five Star $$ 301 N. West St., Ste. 101 @fivestarraleigh For a five-star experience sans the stuffiness, head to this legendary locale for its celebrated unparalleled vibe, weekly local DJs and authentic Asian cuisine—think fried rice, lo mein, heat seeker shrimp, crab rangoons and more.

Flour & Barrel $ 400 W. North St., Ste. 120 @flourandbarrelnc Flour is, naturally, the name of the game at this intimate rustic Italian spot/ craft brewery—spotlighted in housemade pastas like tableside

mafaldine and seafood-laden chitarra, plus small plates made to share with the table.

Madre $$ 518 N. West St. @madreraleigh Oh, mother!

S m o k y Hollow’s ubersexy, sophisticated sup spot showcases rotating small plates from the hands of its Michelin-starred chef—think beef tartare, roasted cauliflower and Calabrian chicken—that expertly mirror its sultry-meets-chic atmosphere.

RM’S BEST

BRUNCHES

Tucker Street Diner $ 421 N. Harrington St., Ste. 110 @tuckerstreetdiner Not your mama’s diner, the nostalgic establishment by the same team behind The Shiny Diner serves up all-day comforting eats like pancakes and waffles, egg plates, and blue plate specials in a hip yet homey space.

SEABOARD & PERSON STREET DISTRICT Crawford and Son $$$ 618 N. Person St. @crawfordnson Drawing inspiration from local products, plus a medley of classic and modern techniques, chef/owner Scott Crawford’s menu is like a work of art—almost too pretty to eat.

Seasonal dishes include everything from showstopping crudos and elevated beef short ribs to must-order manchego-herb biscuits and tartare.

Gringo A Go Go $ 100 N. Person St. @gringo_a_gogo With its playful vibe, plant-filled patio, and authentic food and drinks (those housemade margs though!), this sup spot has been sating local Mexican-food lovers—including vegans—since 2014 with its tortas, tacos, burritos and the like. Guac on!

Jolie $$ 620 N. Person St. @jolierestaurant Inspired by a trip to Paris and named for chef/owner Scott Crawford’s daughter, Jolie pairs modern Euro elegance with classic French fare (think escargot, onion soup and bubbles to pair, natch) in an intimate setting where the dreamy rooftop stars.

Omakase by Kai $$$ 15 Seaboard Ave. @omakasekai Upping the sushi game at Seaboard Station is this stunning woodcovered outpost offering a wide array of luxe and contemporary plates, from specialty rolls and bento boxes to omakase, natch.

Stanbury $$ 938 N. Blount St. @stanburyraleigh Come as you are to an eclectic outpost serving elevated ever-rotating fare such as Asian-inspired fried oysters and creamy cauliflower bisque. While feasting (sharing is caring!), sip on a cocktail or glass of wine and take in the eclectic surrounds.

The Station at Person Street $ 701 N. Person St. @stationraleigh Station yourself at this chill neighborhood hangout offering the perfect perch—either in the energy-filled dining room or out on the spacious patio—for a brewski or bite of craveable bar food like chipotle chicken tenders, burgers and wings.

MOORE SQUARE DISTRICT Beasley’s Chicken + Honey $$ 237 S. Wilmington St. RM’S BEST BRUNCHES @beasleys_raleigh Southern comfort fare at its finest is found at Ashley Christensen’s casual dining oasis, serving up the likes of fried chicken, Carolina catfish and collard greens—NTM buzzy brunch selects. Biscuits and gravy, anyone?

Bida Manda $$ 222 S. Blount St. @bidamanda Escape to the Far East via flavorpacked authentic Laotian fare inspired by family recipes. Pro tip:

Get the crispy pork belly soup.

And be sure to sate your postmeal sweet tooth with the purple sticky rice.

Big Ed’s City Market $ 220 Wolfe St. @bigedsnc Staying true to its best-in-class country cookin’ legacy since 1989, good eats are always abundant at Ed’s. The mainstay features downhome fare like fried okra, grits, and chicken and pastry, plus daylong breakfast ops. Come hungry!

Brewery Bhavana $ 218 S. Blount St. @brewerybhavana Sharing is caring, so belly up with your brood at this culinary nirvana for a bevy of bamboo steamers dishing all that and dim sum—or peck into the hoisin-honey-sauced peking duck.

And the dumplings? Do it.

Caffé Luna $$ 136 E. Hargett St. @caffe.luna Craving pasta with personality?

Dive into dishes like chicken Parm and ravioli Fiorentina in a charming white-tablecloth spot made for date nights and family dinners—and yes, the neon sign’s basically begging for a photo op.

City Market Sushi $$ 315 Blake St. @citymarketsushi Pull up and roll out for a smattering of specialty and classic rolls (s/o the Crazy Monkey), appetizers, nigiri and sashimi at this sleek sushi hideaway—and save room for the mochi ice cream as a post-dinner sweet treat.

Daijobu $$ 170 E. Davie St. @daijobu_us From the same team behind City Market Sushi, this slurpworthy hot spot serves up comforting bowls of ramen—plus an array of seafoodfocused hand rolls and Asian small plates.

Gravy $$ 135 S. Wilmington St. @gravyraleigh Carb-loading has never tasted so right. Get lost in the sauce—er, gravy—via daily-made batches and Italian-American selects straight from the stove. Pro tip: Don’t skip the spaghetti and meatballs or lasagna.

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Sitti $$ 137 S. Wilmington St. @sittirestaurant The Lebanese grandmother (Sitti) you wish you had is serving up love in the form of pizzettes, kabobs, shawarma and swoonworthy dips— the hummus and baba ghanouj are *chef’s kiss*! And the vibes?

As welcoming as the food. Just like grandma’s house.

ORO $$ 18 E. Martin St. @oro_restaurant A global tour awaits in this chic two-story sup spot via droolworthy seasonal tapas from the garden, land and sea (the burrata salad, wild mushroom carbonara and pork belly skewers are musts!), paired with extravagant craft cocktails (see: the Bathtub Hooch) and a full wine bar.

St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar $$ 223 S. Wilmington St. @strochraleigh

Embracing the spirit of the namesake NOLA neighborhood from which chef Sunny Gerhart’s family hails, St. Roch serves standout raw and roasted oysters alongside craveworthy ops like crawfish hushpuppies, gator Bolognese, red beans and rice, and fried seafood platters.

Poole’s Diner $$ 428 S. McDowell St. @poolesdiner The No. 1 rule at this circa-1945 restored pie shop of the same name is that you must order the macaroni au gratin. Beyond the cult classic, settle into a signature red booth for more modern rotating diner fare (sometimes daily) and a craft cocktail, natch.

Vic’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria $ Moore Square District, West Raleigh & Glenwood South @vicslakeboone Authentic old-world Italian cuisine and traditional New York-style pizza collide at this family-run fave, dishing comforting fare for 30+ years. You can’t go wrong with the pasta and calzone—and those garlic knots are nonnegotiable.

FAYETTEVILLE STREET DISTRICT Centro Mexican $ 106 S. Wilmington St. @centroraleigh Queso is the name of the game at this brightly colored Downtown staple serving up dank tacos, a smattering of mouthwatering mains (think tamarind/chipotle-glazed salmon, flautas and a 20-ingredient mole poblano) and craveable cocktails.

Jimmy V’s Osteria + Bar $$ 420 Fayetteville St. @jimmyvsraleigh Another dub, NC State coach Jim Valvano’s namesake resto takes classic Italian eats—spaghetti and meatballs, chicken Parm, wood-fired pizza—next-level, NTM a spirited lineup of libations (s/o the housemade sangria).

Never give up!

Mecca $ 13 E. Martin St. @themeccarestaurant Serving up Southern comfort fare for almost a century, this old-fashioned and family-owned DTR staple offers breakfast all day (hey, pancakes and omelets!), plus a lunch- and dinnertime burger bar, meatloaf, salads and more.

The Raleigh Times $ 14 E. Hargett St. @raleightimesbar Extra, extra! Belly up to the twiceexpanded watering hole housed in the 100-year-old building formerly home to The Raleigh Times newspaper for a generous selection of elevated bar food (pro tip: always the Times Nachos) and craft beers.

Sono $ 319 Fayetteville St.

@sonosushiraleigh Let the good times

roll at this chic-butapproachable vibrant sushi spot serving up world-class rolls (the Screaming “O” deserves a, ahem, standing ovation); bento boxes; ramen; and other Japanese faves like nigiri/sashimi, gyoza and miso soup—with a vast cocktail and sake selection to boot.

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT Barcelona Wine Bar $$ 430 W. Martin St. @barcelonawinebar It’s always tapas time at the cozy yet rustic Spanish-inspired spot on the ground floor of The Dillon feat. such shareable snacks as charcuterie, patatas bravas and pork belly— best washed down with a pitcher of sangria to share.

Figulina $$ 317 S. Harrington St. @figulina.raleigh Pasta la vista, baby!

Twirling up creative rotating pasta delights is chef David Ellis via his refreshing concept boasting both lesser-known shapes and classic pasta dishes—from rigatoni and risotto to tagliatelle and doppio ravioli.

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Irregardless Café $$ 901 W. Morgan St. @irregardlessnc RM’S BEST BRUNCHES Meat eaters and veggie lovers alike thrive at this circa-1975 Raleigh eatery showcasing everything from tofu-forward dishes to salmon and shrimp selects. Don’t sleep on brunch—and check the cal for live music.

La Terrazza $$

223 S. West St.,

9th floor @laterrazzaraleigh

Post up on The Dillon rooftop for approachable spins on Mediterranean meets Southern Italian ops spanning to-die-for tuna tartare, burrata and cheesy cauliflower to pizzas, homemade pastas (porro ravioli is a must), meaty entrees—and a bubbles program that will send you.

O-Ku Sushi $$ 411 W. Hargett St. @okuraleigh Roll up for authentic Asian eats with Southern nods and sophisticated presentations, from petite plates and sushi specialties to contemporary robata-style dishes and even a multicourse omakase tasting.

Oak Steakhouse $$$$ 417 W. Hargett St. @oakraleigh Let them eat steak! Carnivores will delight in the modern take on steakhouse dining offering a slew of signature chops and steaks (natch)— NTM housemade bread, oysters Rockefeller, bone marrow frites, tenderloin tartare and frog legs.

Parkside $ 301 W. Martin St. @parksideraleigh “Parked” at the entrance to the Warehouse District, this DTR staple slays brunch, lunch and dinner with its chef-inspired fare (burgers, bowls, shrimp and grits, and more).

Plus, sate your thirst via the bevy of beers on tap.

The Pit $$ 328 W. Davie St. @thepitbbq Continuing NC’s barbecue legacy, this DTR gem doles authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked BBQ worth pigging out over—and the sides and starters are worth shouting out as well (think pimento cheese balls, fried green tomatoes, deviled eggs and more).

Trophy Brewing & Pizza $$ 827 W. Morgan St. @trophybrewing A “Local Celebrity” indeed, the pie of the same name keeps Raleighites “Most Loyal”—NTM the salads provide

~balance~. Wash it all down with the seasonally rotating brews that made Trophy a true winner in our hearts.

Tuscan Blu $$ 327 W. Davie St. @tuscanbluitalianrestaurant Send your taste buds on a trip to Tuscany when digging into the myriad pasta, meat and rotating specials at this Italian eatery.

Standouts include the gnocchi pesto con pollo, linguine with meatballs and homemade lasagna.

Whiskey Kitchen $ 201 W. Martin St. RM’S BEST BRUNCHES

@whiskey.kitchen

It’s more than just whiskey business when dining out at this hip indoor-outdoor haven. Beyond the impressive bar program, find a slew of Southern-inspired plates for pairing, from a bangin’ fried chicken sandwich to curried mahi to fried Brussels and more. And brunch is a vibe.

Wye Hill $$ 201 S. Boylan Ave. @wyehill For brews and chews with epic views, Wye Hill serves up the best patio around with daylong foodie ops that always hit. To name but a few, the dill pickle pimento cheese is a crowd fave; the everything Brussels sprouts make vegetables delectable; and the Wye Hill burger is mouthwatering.

BEST BRUNCHES RM’S

HILLSBOROUGH STREET CORRIDOR Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar $ 105 Friendly Drive, Ste. 101 @limenlemon_indiangrill Journey through India’s many regions in a modern atmosphere via the likes of authentic tikka masala, veggie samosas, chicken curry, naan and much more—plus specialty cocktails with an Indian twist Lobera Tacos and Tequila $ 2100 Hillsborough St. @lobera.raleigh Nosh on classic Tex-Mex dishes like enchiladas and burritos—plus creative standouts like birria ramen and Mexican-inspired sushi—below the Belltower at this family- and NCSU alumni-owned tacos and tequila spot translating to “the place where all the wolves gather” in Spanish.

Players Retreat $ 2105 Oberlin Road @players_retreat

One of Raleigh’s favorite OG sports bars since 1951, PR (as it’s affectionately called) is both a

game day and everyday go-to for Raleighites—esp. State fans, obv— for its laid-back vibe; lively outdoor patio (with TVs!); and elevated bar food like specialty burgers, baby back ribs and chicken wings.

VILLAGE DISTRICT Cantina 18 $ 433 Daniels St. @cantina18 Chef/owner Jason Smith serves up dank Mexican-fusion dishes aplenty at this decidedly upscale and urban local fave—famed as much for its heated patio and garage-door open-air edifice as for its tasty tacos and margs.

Cape Fear Seafood Company $$ Village District & North Raleigh @capefearseafoodcompany Seafood lovers are gonna want to post up at this award-winning restaurant specializing in fresh regional seafood, signature dishes and handcut steaks in a chill and relaxed setting.

Piccola Italia $ 423 Woodburn Road @ncpiccolaitalia Since 1982, Sicily native Frank Amato has been dishing classic Italian meals at this relaxed lunch and dinner spot via handmade pizzas, homemade soups and salads, traditional pasta dishes— and of course vino.

Tazza Kitchen $$ 432 Woodburn Ave. @tazzakitchen High ceilings lend a simple urban ambiance that aligns with the wood-fired menu selects (tacos, pizzas, etc.) sourced from dozens of local farmers, paired perfectly with one of Tazza’s “serious libations.”

Village Draft House $ 428 Daniels St. @villagedrafthousenc The game is always on at this fanfave sports bar. Go for the relaxed neighborhood vibe, chill patio and 100-plus ever-evolving brews on tap; stay for the extensive menu of burgers, sammies, dinners and more.

GLENWOOD SOUTH Botanical Lounge $ 419 Glenwood Ave. @botanicalraleigh Velvet couches and marble tables set a luxuriant stage for the likes of patatas bravas, crispy pickled okra and the market catch paired with classic cocktails, wine and beer at the indoor-outdoor rooftop restaurant, bar and lounge.

Cuya Cocina Latina $$ 413 Glenwood Ave. @cuyacocina Take your taste buds on a trip through vibrant Caribbean, Mexican and South American flavors via colorful dishes like tuna ceviche, pastelon (Puerto Ricanstyle lasagna) and fried yuca balls— complemented by a high-energy music-filled space and refreshing ’tails.

Hibernian Irish Pub $$ Glenwood South & North Raleigh @hibernianpub Sláinte! Raleigh has the luck of the Irish indeed at this storied staple, famed for its beer and liquor selections, and delish Irish dishes perfect for both the start of a night out and the day after.

La Mala $$ 126 N. West St. lamalamx.com La Santa’s sister concept delivers a triple dose of color, flavor and culture to DTR—not to mention a vibrant energy setting the tone for Mexican-inspired cocktails and authentic street food (think tacos, chilaquiles and ceviche) for lunch and dinner alike. Keep the party going all night long with a shot or two of high-quality tequila.

La Santa $ 222 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 107 @lasantaraleigh Transport your taste buds to Mexico via this family-owned resto serving up the owner’s mother’s recipes from Guadalajara—think handmade tortillas, bolillo, and enchiladas, which are best served with a freshly squeezed fruit marg.

MoJoe’s Burger Joint $ 620 Glenwood Ave. @mojoesburgers With a dozen-ish styles, MoJoe’s signature awardwinning handpressed burgers are 100% Sterling Silver Choice beef and 100% delicious. Prop up on the patio with a side of the famous MoJoe’s sauce and a signature shake for the full experience.

My Way Tavern $ 22 St. Mary’s St. @mywayraleigh With a Cheers-esque vibe and TVs on every wall, this neighborhood tavern is a great spot to catch the game with friends over cocktails, brews and bar food—with a late-night menu on offer to keep the party going. 5 Soul Flavorscape of India $ 301 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 190 @soulflavorscape The family-owned restaurant literally delivers a modern SEPTEMBER 2025 | 101

flavorscape of authentic Indian cuisine to the table—from samosa chickpea chaat and paneer tikka to chicken 65 and lamb seekh kebabs.

Sullivan’s Steakhouse $$ 410 Glenwood Ave. @sullivanssteakhouse Lively jazz and smooth martinis serve as a bonus to a luxe interior and enhanced housecut steaks at this fine-dining Creamery Building mainstay.

Sushi Blues $ 301 Glenwood Ave. @sushibluescafe The BOGO rolls (try the Wolfpack) and half-price wine bottles on Sun. & Wed. will bring you in, while the wide selection of fresh sushi and sashimi, craft cocktails, and bustling patio overlooking Glenwood Avenue will keep you coming back.

Tobacco Road Sports Cafe $ 505 W. Jones St. @tobaccoroadnc Born out of owners Amra brothers’ vision for combining good food and great teams, TR is the quintessential spot for cheering on your team with a world-class beer in hand and fresh scratchmade fare on the table.

Vidrio $$$ 500 Glenwood Ave. @vidrioraleigh A array of blown-glass plates provide a backdrop for the likes of fig and bleu cheese flatbread, salmon, and stuffed peppers—NTM a craft cocktail or vino select from the 50-plus wines on tap.

The Willard Rooftop Lounge $ 9 Glenwood Ave. @thewillardraleigh Bites with a view? Don’t mind if we do. In addition to en plein air Mediterranean small plates atop Glenwood South’s chic AC Hotel, The Willard also offers a spirited bar program featuring classic cocktails and specialty concoctions.

FIVE POINTS Ajja $$ 209 Bickett Blvd. @ajjaeats For flavorful fare taking inspo from the Mediterranean and Middle Eat in a groovy atmosphere, belly up to Cheetie Kumar’s vibey eatery boasting cuisine “of the world, for the world”—think kebabs, amba-glazed pork belly, plus curated cocktails.

Bloomsbury Bistro $$$ 509 W. Whitaker Mill Road @bloomsburybistro A Raleigh staple for a reason, this

longtime gem curates a seasonal menu blending vibrant French flavors with traditional American fare, feat. the likes of oysters, steak frites and beef sliders dished up in a quaint yet classy bistro setting. C’est la vie!

Glenwood Grill $$ 2603-151 Glenwood Ave. glenwoodgrill.com Putting an elegant spin on Southern and low-country favorites, the neighborhood resto sources locally harvested/produced products to create delectably comforting dishes like seafood and grits, fried green tomatoes, and catfish.

Hako $ 2603 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 155 hakosushinc.com Feast your eyes—and stomach— on the plethora of Japanese dishes found at this Glenwood Village sushi spot and restaurant serving up specialty rolls, sashimi, apps, and entrees like yakiniku and katsu chicken and pork.

Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery $ 2000 Fairview Road @hayesbartoncafeanddessertery Go for the famed Americana cuisine (pro tip: dial “M” for meatloaf), stay for the huge slices of delish homemade cake—all enjoyed in the ’40s-indebted atmosphere boasting black-and-whitecheckerboard flooring and historic photo-adorned walls. Swoon!

J. Betski’s $$ 1916 Bernard St. @betskisofficial Prost to Raleigh’s only resto cooking up German/Polish faves like those famed pierogies, spaetzle and bratwurst—plus beer, wine and ’tails for pairing—complete with rollup garage doors and a covered patio.

Lola’s Beach Bar $ 1803 Glenwood Ave. @lolasbeachbar Be on island time year-round at this tropical cantina with islandinspired bar fare and housemade margs and cocktails repping 100% agave tequilas and freshly squeezed juices.

Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie $$ 518 Pershing Road @neuseriverbrewingco Belgian-inspired, locally crafted dishes including poutine, steak frites and mussels perfectly complement a range of brews in a relaxed setting—with a patio and outdoor herb garden to boot.

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NOFO @ the Pig $ 2014 Fairview Road @nofo_at_the_pig RM’S BEST BRUNCHES This quirky two-story cafe, resto and gift shop lives in a renovated Piggly Wiggly and serves up a creative selection of Southern staples across lunch, brunch and dinner.

Red Dragon $ 2513 Fairview Road raleighreddragon.com This Five Points staple chefs up cozy dishes and authentic Chinese classics—from sesame chicken and coconut shrimp to lo mein and fried rice—as well as an extensive a la carte menu. Don’t sleep on the hot and sour soup.

Stellar $ 1912 Bernard St. @stellaritb An out-of-this-world flavor fest awaits at this fresh yet familiar eatery serving cozy vibes, thoughtful pours and elevated comfort food—think chicken liver mousse, ahi crudo, and risotto, plus bangin’ brunch selects—altogether crafting “soul, flavor and a stellar attitude.”

Timber Pizza Co. $ 627 E. Whitaker Mill Road @timberpizzaco_raleigh Your standard slice gets an upgrade with fresh high-quality ingredients like sous vide chicken thighs, peashoot pesto, Peruvian sweet peppers and cured chorizo in a myriad of pies.

IRON DISTRICT Brodeto $$$ 2201 Iron Works Drive, Ste. 137 @brodetorestaurant Scott Crawford’s love letter to Adriatic cuisine takes inspiration from his many trips to the Mediterranean through dishes like crudos, housemade pastas, breads and more—plus the resto’s namesake brodeto (aka fish soup), natch.

East End Bistrot $$$$ 2020 Progress Court, Ste. 110 @eastendbistrotraleigh C’est la vie! Offering theatrics for your taste buds is Giorgios Bakatsias’ French eatery expertly composing exquisite eats, bevs, atmosphere and service into a perfectly choreographed dance. The show must go on!

Hummingbird $$ 1053 E. Whitaker

Mill Road, Ste. 111, RM’S BEST

BRUNCHES @hummingbirdral

NOLA transplant chef/owner Coleen Speaks dishes up

eclectic fare in a bright and colorful dining room, as well as alfresco on the always-buzzy patio overlooking Dock 1053. Pro tip: Brunch!

WEST RALEIGH Amedeo’s $ 3905 Western Blvd. @amedeos_restaurant Founded in 1963 by Wolfpacker Amedeo “Dick” DeAngelis, the iconic Italian spot is famed for its pizzas, pastas, calzones, wings and sandwiches—plus signature and Wolfpack-themed cocktails.

Buon appetito!

Bella Monica $$ 3121 Edwards Mill Road @bellamonica.raleigh A nod to owners Corbett and Julie Monica’s Italian heritage, this family-run trattoria channels their Nana’s table via Neapolitan pizza, flatbreads and antipasto recipes handed down for generations.

Bru’s Public House $$ 5433 Wade Park Blvd., Ste. 100 @bruspublichouse Game day or not, good grub is always on deck in the Wake Park elevated sports bar where locals belly up all day for a beer, burgers, wings, pizza and cocktails.

The Iron Oaks Taproom and Lounge $ 3800 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 130 @the.iron.oaks Tee up a good time via golf simulators paired with beer and wine, cocktails, and elevated bar food (think charcuterie, truffle fries and handhelds) crafted with unique flavors.

Napa Bistro & Wine Bar $$ 3705 Exchange Glenwood Place @napa_restaurants Quench your thirst for a trip to the West Coast via myriad vinos and ’tails and wine-country cuisine—think small plates, soups and salads—plus an elevated ambiance to boot at this Golden State-inspired mainstay.

Lakeside Kitchen $ 2450 Alumni Drive @lakesidekitchenraleigh Southern-infused classics get a fresh lunch spin thanks to seasonal bounty from the NC State Farmers Market, nearby farms and the chef’s own patio garden—shining bright across a stunning from-scratch menu featuring standouts like burgers, sandos, salads and mains.

The Oak $$ 4035 Lake Boone Trail @theoakraleigh Friendly staff serves made-from-

scratch bar bites, entrees and sliders to pair with 100+ bourbons, including The Oak’s own in-house blend. And brunch is always a good idea.

State Farmers Market Restaurant $ 1240 Farmers Market Drive @statefarmersmarketrestaurant Southern comfort fare stands the test of time in this bright and bustling restaurant plus patio. Think homemade biscuits, local country ham and the like.

Sushi Mon $$ 3800 Glenwood Ave., Ste. 100 @sushimon_raleigh Fresh sushi, bento and sashimi/ nigiri dished in moody digs make Sushi Mon a Raleigh “roll model” for a reason. Don’t sleep on starters like spicy garlic edamame or gyoza.

Sushi Nine $ 3812 Western Blvd. @sushinine Long known for its bangin’ BOGO rolls, apps, noodles, stir-fries and hibachi, this sushi spot is also a fan-fave for its modern atmosphere and spacious patio. Pro tip: This is Wolfpack country—so the Mr. Wuf roll is a must. Go Pack!

NORTHWEST RALEIGH Angus Barn $$$$ 9401 Glenwood Ave. @angusbarn This nationally renowned upscale (literal) barn with an award-winning wine cellar turns out succulent steaks, seafood and more. Pro tip: Skip the rez and grab a drink or dinner in The Wild Turkey Lounge.

Azitra Indian $$ 8411 Brier Creek Parkway @azitranc Indulge in Indian classics and a few fusion surprises at this contemporary Indian eatery “encapsulating the essence of nirvana” with each dish. Dig into makhmali lamb, paneer, or tandoori surf and turf—and dessert is non-negotiable.

Brier Creek Beer Garden $ 8521 Brier Creek Parkway @bcbeergarden Get your garden fix sans plants and dirt with 50+ craft beers on draft and 100+ bottles; snarky signs lining the walls; and unique dishes including German nachos, Moroccan meatballs and a pint of bacon (!).

Casa Carbone $$ 6019 Glenwood Ave., Ste. A @casa_carbone_ It’s a family affair—and the legacy has been passed down since 1984. Nosh on authentic Italian fare like zuppa di clams,

fettuccine carbonara, chopped sirloin pizzaiola, and pizza and dessert galore.

Dos Taquitos $$ 6101 Glenwood Ave. @dostaquitos_official An institution on the Raleigh food scene, this Mexican haven channels the flavor and spirit of its homeland through staples like tacos, enchiladas, chilaquiles and delicious margs. And the trainserved queso is a must.

J. Alexander’s $$$ 4600 Crabtree Valley Ave. @jalexandersrestaurant Twinkling views abound from this contemporary resto’s perch above Crabtree Valley Mall, where you’ll find traditional woodfired American classics like oldfashioned cheeseburgers, Emerald Coast shrimp and slow-roasted prime rib.

Jalwa Indian Bistro $$ 6112 Falls of Neuse Road @jalwaindianbistronc It’s all about the presentation here. Creative Indian dishes (changezi raan flambé, palak paneer baklava, etc.) are served in such an artistic way they’re almost too pretty to eat—best paired with a classic or innovative cocktail for a true masterpiece.

Jose and Sons $$ 4112 Pleasant Valley Road @joseandsons Traditional Mexican comfort food fused with Southern influences found seven days a week in a festive high-energy atmosphere, where local ingredients enliven the flavors of staple dishes like enchiladas, chimichangas, nachos, soups and salads.

Kanki Japanese House of Steak and Sushi $$$ Northwest Raleigh & North Raleigh @kankirestaurant Prepare to catch the shrimp! This hibachi and sushi staple is best known for its talented tableside chefs who entertain as they expertly chop, dice and cook your meal before your eyes with the flip of a spatula.

The Mill $$ 3201 Edwards Mill Road @themillraleigh The name and vibe a nod to the OG Edwards Mill Bar & Grill (RIP), this upscale dive-meets-quality American steakhouse promises to make you a regular with steak frites, salads, smashburgers and more.

The Peddler $$$ 6005 Glenwood Ave. @peddlerraleigh A pillar of Raleigh’s restaurant scene, this old-school steakhouse SEPTEMBER 2025 | 103

has been peddling out seafood, chicken and steaks aged to perfection since 1969.

So Hot Hotpot $$ 4509 Creedmoor Road, Ste. 102 @sohot.raleigh Play chef by building your own allyou-can-eat pot of savory goodness via an interactive dining experience in a bright neon-lit setting.

Trali Irish Pub $$ 10370 Moncreiffe Road, @traliirishpub Authenticity is on tap at Trali’s traditional Irish gastropub dishing a “true slice of Ireland” in Raleigh via classic cuisine—plus Irish pints, local craft beers and live local tunes.

V Pizza $$ 7930 Skyland Ridge Parkway Ste. 100, @vpizzan Buongiorno! A bangin’ hot spot, V slices up “pizza so Italian it needs a translator”—not to mention a slew of must-nosh shareable apps, salads, sandwiches and desserts.

Waraji Japanese Restaurant $$ 5910 Duraleigh Road @warajisushi Sip on the large sake selection—plus extensive Japanese whiskey in its attached izakaya—to wash down the substantial selection of scrumptious specialty rolls, sashimi and donburi.

Wong’s Tacos $ 4251 Parklake Ave. @wongstacosglenlake The fusion of Mexican and Chinese cuisines found at this GlenLake taco haven are so right it’s “wong“—from tuna poke nachos to chorizo egg rolls and tacos filled with shrimp tempura, Korean brisket and more.

Zayka Indian Cuisine $$ 10410 Moncreiffe Road, Ste. 104 @zaykaraleigh Adding some spice to mealtime, one of the only local Punjabi Northern Indian restaurants serves a variety of paneer, seafood and naan with authentic spices and elevated flavors.

NORTH RALEIGH 13 Tacos & Taps $ 10511 Shadowlawn Drive @13tacosandtaps Specializing in authentic Mexican cuisine with a vibrant twist, this food truck-turned-brick-andmortar dishes a whole new style of taco fusion, burritos and nachos, making for the perf nosh spot for a fiesta.

Café Tiramisu $$ 6008 Falls of Neuse Road @cafetiramisu1 Originating from old Raleigh favorite

Piccolo Mondo, this quaint eatery with rich rustic decor has been dishing ravioli, stuffed clams, bruschetta and other authentic Northern Italian fare for ~30 years.

Chow $ 8311 Creedmoor Road @chowraleigh Prepare to chow down on burgers, handtossed pizzas, loaded fries and onion rings—best washed down with craft beers on the patio or inside surrounded by a multitude of TVs. Farina $$

8450 Honeycutt Road Ste. 100, @farinaraleigh Classic Italian bites with a modern take are all the rage at this casual American-Italian restaurant.

Kick off the meal with antipasti paired with a signature cocktail, followed by primo pizza and pasta.

Gonza Tacos y Tequila $ 7713 Lead Mine Road, Ste. 39 @gonzatacosytequila Go for the hippie-chic vibe— complete with neon colors fashioned into modern Day of the Dead decor—and stay for the enchiladas, passion fruit salmon, tacos and fab handcrafted cocktails.

Margaux’s $$$ 8111 Creedmoor Road @margauxsrest Southern hospitality meets a “highenergy metropolis” at this staple eatery established circa 1992 that specializes in international takes on classic dishes like gnocchi, grouper, spiced lamb and lobster.

Milton’s Pizza $ 8853 Six Forks Road 14520 Falls of Neuse Road @miltonspizza A comfort-food go-to since the early ’80s, Milton’s is the place for traditional to-diefor ’za, calzones and pastas, plus sammies and wings to boot. Pro tip: The lunch buffet is the stuff of legends.

Northside Bistro & Cocktails $$ 832 Spring Forest Road @northsidebistroraleigh John Scarangella’s bistro evokes a sense of nostalgia with its neighborhood-friendly vibe and classic New American-style menu including sausage-stuffed mushroom caps, duck confit and beef Wellington.

North Ridge Pub $$ 6010 Falls of Neuse Road @northridgepub his upscale tavern dishes elevated versions of classic pub fare like burgers, wings, crabcakes and

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nachos—best paired with plenty of wine and beer to wash it down.

Peri Brothers Modern Italian $$ 7321 Six Forks Road @peribrothersitalian An upscale yet inviting atmosphere tempts diners to tuck into refined takes on classic dishes—from handcrafted pastas like clamstudded vongole and truffle tagliatelle to premium proteins— best paried with a glass or two from the curated wine list.

Peri Brothers Pizza $ 7321 Six Forks Road @peribrotherspizza For authentic NY-style pizza, look no further than this longtime outpost, also serving up homemade pasta, hot subs, and desserts like cannoli and tiramisu.

Buon appetito!

Poppyseed Market $$ 8801 Lead Mine Road, Ste. 107 @poppyseedmarket By day, the popular homey cafe serves elevated comfort dishes and vino—plus a handtossed pizza program, best enjoyed with microbrews or a cocktail from the full bar.

Sushi One $$ 8470 Honeycutt Road @sushione_raleigh Putting the swank in sushi, the mod family-owned spot rolls out tempura, teriyaki, Thai and hibachi selects, and classic rolls—plus a smattering of signature ’tails perf for pairing.

The Piper’s Tavern $$ 8304 Falls of Neuse Road @thepiperstavern Irish heritage, traditional sports pub and homey family resto collide in this fam-friendly neighborhood tavern with a menu to satisfy all appetites—from soups to sammies to burgers and beyond.

Relish Craft Kitchen & Bourbon Bar $ 5625 Creedmoor Road @relishraleigh RM’S BEST BRUNCHES Relish in this craft kitchen and bourbon bar specializing in fresh comfort food with a “new Southern” twist via a menu showcasing NC’s best ingredients. Hot take: You can’t go wrong with a mac and cheese skillet.

Thaiphoon Bistro $ 7496 Creedmoor Road thaiphoonbistro.com Known for dishing out bold, flavorpacked plates from every corner of Thailand, this go-to spot also boasts a generous lineup of vegetarian ops. The zesty papaya salad,

fragrant green curry, and any of the craveworthy house noodle dishes are sure bets.

Salt & Lime Cabo Grill $$ 6006 Falls of Neuse Road 4800 Grove Barton Road @saltlimecabo Live your best island life via Baja peninsula-inspired flavorful fare like street tacos, seafood, quesadillas and burritos in a tropical cantinaesque setting. And don’t forget the signature margs.

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern $$$$ 7440 Six Forks Road @vinniessteakhouse Succulent steaks and classic a la carte sides like mashed potatoes, spinach and the like meet an extensive wine list, impeccable service and retro vibes at this nee-1987 mainstay.

Life hack: Dessert is a must.

Vinos Finos $ 8450 Honeycutt Road, Ste. 110 @vinosfinosraleigh South American small plate dreams delivered at this sip and sup spot serving up delish tapas—from lamb sliders to burrata—and a wide selection of rotating wines by the glass.

Winston’s Grille $$ 6401 Falls of Neuse Road @winstonsgrill A Raleigh staple since 1986, this traditional upscale resto is a hit for its selection of prime rib, pastas and fresh salads—NTM its expansive outdoor terrace and signature cocktails.

MIDTOWN CO 101 Park at North Hills St. @eatatcoral Bright and bold flavors from Southeast Asia—think dumplings, noodles and rice/poke bowls— boast unique and modern tweaks in a sleek setting.

Coquette Brasserie $$ 4351 The Circle at North Hills RM’S BEST BRUNCHES @coquetteraleigh C’est la vie! Escargot, frites, tartare and more French cuisine gets infused with local farmfresh ingredients in a sophisticated Parisian-esque setting, with tables open to the sidewalks for that European feel.

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar $$ 4208 Six Forks Road @thecowfishsbb Burgushi (aka a bangin’ meat and seafood collision) rolls out in a vibrant space—with a famed

ultramod cylindrical fish tank centerpiece!—satisfying carnivores, seafood lovers and sushi fans alike.

Cucciolo Terrazza $$ 4200 Six Forks Road, Ste. 100 @cuccioloraleigh Ciao, bella! Escape to Italy sans plane ticket via upscale vibes with a side of antipasti, pasta, entrees, and other contemporary Italian dishes—including an Italianesque brunch (!).

Foxcroft Wine Co. $$ 4421 Six Forks Road, Ste. 115 @foxcroftwinecoraleigh There’s no “wining” when it comes to the charcuterie, flatbreads, housemade pasta, salads and ample bottles coming out of this lively restaurant, wine bar and bottle shop—complete with brunch and an outdoor patio.

Giorgio Pizza Bar $$ 141 Park at North Hills St., Ste. 112 @giorgiopizzabar Pull up a chair to watch the signature crispy, thin-crust sourdough pizzas spin through the air as you feast on handmade pastas, seasonal snacks and salads.

setting for sipping eclectic wines while dining on burrata, seafood and delectable veggies inspired by Mediterranean flavors.

STIR $$ 4242 Six Forks Road @stirraleighnc The upscale vibe, scratchmade entrees and craft cocktails have stirred up quite the following for dates, business meets and brunches alike. Pro tip: Oysters are a must.

Tamasha $$ 4200 Six Forks Road, Ste. 130 @tamashanc Slide into a seat at one of “America’s Most Beautiful Restaurants” for elevated Indian food—think tandoori paneer tikka, chaat and butter chicken—showcasing the rich and diverse flavors of the nation.

Vivace $$ 4209 Lassiter Mill Road @vivaceraleigh Long cushioned banquettes and a spacious outdoor patio serve as the ideal backdrop for fresh pastas made daily, pizzas and creative seasonal menu items.

Midtown Pho $ 424 E. Six Forks Road @midtownpho Oodles of noodles can be found at this authentic Vietnamese restaurant—along with rice dishes, banh mi, summer rolls and more.

The Fiction Kitchen $$ 2431 Crabtree Blvd., Ste. 103 @thefictionkitchen It’s not fiction—you won’t miss the meat at this 100% vegan kitchen cooking up a globally inspired menu of charcuterie boards, pastas and Impossible meatloaf, plus beer, wine, cocktails and NA bevs.

Rosewater Kitchen & Bar $$ 110 Park at North Hills Street @rosewaterkitchen A light-filled “garden party” atmosphere makes the perfect

RALEIGHMAG.COM @RALEIGHMAGAZINE EAST END BISTROT, 2024 RESTAURANT OF THE YEAR PHOTO BY FORREST MASON

Village Tavern $$ 4140 Lassiter Mill Road, Ste. 140 @villagetavern Elevated tavern eats in a mod setting await at this casual yet chic North Hills gem, with a menu running the gamut from hot crab dip and nachos to tacos, pizza, burgers, and meatand seafood-focused entrees.

Leo’s Italian Social $$ 141 Park at North Hills St., Ste. 112 @leositaliansocial Ample classic Italian faves are on deck—from pizza and pasta to Friday fish and seasonal selects to Italian street food (truffle chips FTW!). NTM stellar signature cocktails + housemade limoncello.

Peregrine $$$ 1000 Social St., Ste. 150 @peregrineraleigh Where “east meets west,” Saif Rahman and Patrick Shanahan’s contemporary American concept is a love letter to the places that shaped Rahman’s life. Inspired by America’s cultural mosaic, the menu boasts such standouts as dry-aged beef tartare, sheesh kabob, and Bengali wedding chicken—rounded out with fresh ’tails and inventive desserts.

Where to Eat Now?

MIDTOWN EAST

Mala Pata $$ 2431 Crabtree Blvd., Ste. 102 @malapata.molino Heirloom masa shines across modern dishes crafted by a starstuffed team of Raleigh F&B vets— see: tuna tartacos, flautas and tacos.

And be sure to end with a nightcap at next-door bar Peyote.

Miso Ramen Bar $ 2409 Crabtree Blvd., Ste. 104 @miso_ramen_bar Nood lovers give high praise to this super-popular ramen haven offering up slurpworthy selects feat. broth made in house daily and housebraised chashu—plus rice bowls, apps and signature drinks.

From legislation to libations, we take you inside the issues, events and flavors that matter most to our city.

If it happens in Raleigh, you hear it here first. Honest and passionate, we are the voice of Raleigh.

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SEPTEMBER 2025

LAST CALL

Light the candles: This month marks Raleigh Mag’s 10th anniversary issue (!). As the voice of Raleigh, we’re celebrating a decade of informing, entertaining and enlightening the City of Oaks—bringing you the stories that matter most across multichannel coverage. After 10 years of knowing the city inside and out, no burger or brunch has gone untasted, no legislation unread and no street undriven. From growth spurts to growing pains, wins to losses, we’ve been here for it all. Here’s to many more!

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BUILDING THE FUTURE OF MIDTOWN TOGETHER

GROW WITH US!

LEADERSHIP

NETWORKING

GROWTH

INFORMATION

LIVE WORK PLAY STAY Get connected.

MIDTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE Get information on who we are and how to become a member of MRA www.midtownraleighalliance.org

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