Chapel Hill Magazine's The Downtowner

THE

DOWNTOWNER CHAPEL HILL CARRBORO HILLSBOROUGH

YOUR INSIDER’S GUIDE TO REDISCOVERING DOWNTOWN

2019

Craft beer Live music Performing arts Sporting events Green spaces Shops & food

from excellent, affordable diners to high-end—including, not one, but two James Beard award-winning restaurants

This vibrant mix of culture is what we call downtown Chapel Hill.

DOWNTOWN CHAPEL HILL

So much to discover.

Discover more online at downtownchapelhill.com

Success is all about location. And so are we.

ALI CAT

LOVE & PEACE BOUTIQUE

ANNA’S CUSTOM TAILOR

MULBERRY SILKS & FINE FABRICS

B-SIDE LOUNGE

OASIS AT CARR MILL COFFEE SHOP

BE PURE

RINGS TRUE CUSTOM JEWELER

CARRBORO PIZZA OVEN

SOFIA’S BOUTIQUE

CAROLINA CORE PILATES

SOFIA’S SHOETIQUE

CVS

TANDEM

ELMO’S DINER

THIRTEEN WEST

FIREFLY THE FRAGRANCE SHOP HARRIS TEETER HEAD OVER HEELS HAIRCUTTERS

Historic Carr Mill Mall CarrMillMall.com

follow us  CarrMillMall  @carrmillmall

TOWNSEND BERTRAM & CO. THE STATION VENABLE ROTISSERIE BISTRO WEAVER STREET MARKET

Jessica Stringer

2019

CHAPEL HILL CARRBORO HILLSBOROUGH

DOWNTOWNER

THE

EDITOR

EDITORIAL EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR

Amanda MacLaren

MANAGING EDITOR/BUSINESS EDITOR

Michael McElroy

EXECUTIVE EDITOR, CHATHAM MAGAZINE

Matt White

ASSISTANT EDITOR

Hannah Lee

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Adam Phan, CC Kallam, Jamey Cross, Elizabeth Holmes

“I can’t go to downtown Chapel Hill without going to He’s Not. It’s the perfect gathering spot to meet up with old college friends when they’re back in town.”

CONTRIBUTOR

Katie Murray ART

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Kevin Brown

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Hunter McCumber Keith Warther PHOTOGRAPHER

Beth Mann

“I love All Day Records in Carrboro. They offer a well-curated selection of records from postpunk, world and dance music to everything in between. What I really love is their selection of vintage audio equipment such as turntables, receivers and speakers.”

ADVERTISING For advertising inquiries, email advertising@chapelhillmagazine.com Melissa Crane melissa@chapelhillmagazine.com Chris Elkins chris@chapelhillmagazine.com Kem Johnson kem@chapelhillmagazine.com

“Indulging at The Yogurt Pump and Blue Spoon Microcreamery are my downtown Chapel Hill favorites for a frozen treat!”

Lauren Phillips lauren@durhammag.com

What’s your downtown Chapel Hill, Carrboro or Hillsborough go-to event or spot?

AD TRAFFIC & DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

Lizzie Jones

CORPORATE Rory Kelly Gillis Chief Operating Officer Dan Shannon Founder Ellen Shannon Vice President of Planning & Development

“I love the many lunchtime choices that we have downtown – my go-to places are Top of the Hill, Lula’s, Al’s Burger Shack, Sutton’s, Crossroads Chapel Hill at The Carolina Inn or The Purple Bowl. And I love the new additional parking!”

“Radius is my Hillsborough go-to. They have a great selection of comfort foods including pizza, pasta and sandwiches. My favorites are the Farmers Market pizza and the Americana sandwich.”

Amy Bell Vice President of Finance & Administration Brittany Judy Administrative Assistant Charlotte White Marketing Manager McKenzie Reinhold Project & Events Coordinator Scott Schopler Distribution/Events Delivery Driver Chapel Hill Magazine is published 8 times per year by Shannon Media, Inc. 1777 Fordham Blvd., Suite 105, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 tel 919.933.1551 fax 919.933.1557 Subscriptions $38 for 2 years – subscribe at chapelhillmagazine.com

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

Explore for the day, or extend your stay!

SHOPS & GALLERIES • FINE DINING • RIVERWALK • HISTORIC SITES

visithillsboroughnc.com

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76

C H A P E L H I L L M A G A Z I N E . C O M 6

Letter from the Editor

8

The Ultimate Downtowner Checklist

In no specific order, here are 77 must-do, must-see attractions

T H E

22 Open Spaces

Seven ways to experience history downtown

58 An Ode to Hillsborough

The director of the Orange County Arts Commission on one of the country’s coolest small towns

Maps that will make parking a breeze 72 At Home

28 Arts Everywhere

From festivals and exhibits to murals and performances, here are some of our favorite ways to experience a range of culture downtown

One Carrboro native on growing up ­– and moving back to – downtown 76 Family Fun

Go-to downtown spots for local families

34 The State of Downtown

Matt Gladdek, the new executive director of Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership, shares his perspective

80 Four Seasons

Slices of downtown living from local Instagram accounts

40 Downtown Dining Guide 48 Spend a Night on the Town

at These Local Watering Holes

4

Must-order drinks, how to spot a regular and who’s behind the bar at five downtown spots CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

2 0 1 9

54 Blast From The Past

D O W N T O W N E R

T H E

C O V E R

Photo by Beth Mann

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

READERS’ FAVORITE

BEST OF CHAPEL HILL

www.acmecarrboro.com Carrboro, NC

MAGAZINE

Simple Food made the Hard Way 101 E. Franklin St. | 919.967.2678 | lulaschapelhill.com

Local Favorites, Local Flavors

Flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean 411 W. Franklin St. | 919.967.2782 | 411west.com

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

5

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

DOWNTOWN, EVERYTHING’S WAITING FOR YOU

F

or our second annual Downtowner publication, we chose to photograph Chapel Hill’s newest festival at 140 West Plaza, Bloom Fest. It was a sweltering May afternoon, and kids were making crafts alongside gorgeous flower displays and performances from bands and the Paperhand Puppet Intervention, among others. Our cover family – Carrboro architects Doug Pierson and Youn Choi and their kids, Oscar, 17, and Sora, 14 – tried a little bit of everything. They wore Paperhand Puppet costumes, jumped up together in perfect coordination and hula-hooped. It was hard picking our favorite image for the cover.

Their energy and enthusiasm is exactly how we hope you approach exploring downtown year-round. You’ll find plenty of useful information on the following pages, like where to park or how to find a coworking community. There’s 77 things to see and do on our Ultimate Downtowner Checklist, plus more festivals, seasonal events and favorites from a few locals. Whether you’re a visitor walking around for the first time or a native stopping by a longtime favorite, we hope you’ll feel welcome and try something new.

JESSICA STRINGER Editor

A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS •

My UNC dog leash from The Shrunken Head. My dog is a Tar Heel!

•

My coffee table I bought for $15 at the PTA Thrift Shop in Carrboro.

•

The chicken katsu sandwich and a cold beer at James Pharmacy.

•

•

Checking out the seasonal new arrivals at Beer Study. I’ll take all the summery sour beers, please.

The under-the-radar patio at The Northside District and the very visible one at Top of the Hill. There’s a spot for every mood in Chapel Hill.

•

The dog-friendly hour (8-9 a.m.) at the Eno River Farmers Market.

•

Any flavor baklava at Mediterranean Deli.

•

6

The Hillsborough Handmade Parade. It’s every other year so you’ll have to wait until fall 2020 to see just how fun it is.

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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THE ULTIMATE DOWNTOWNER CHECKLIST IN NO SPECIFIC ORDER, HERE ARE 77 MUST-DO, MUST-SEE ATTRACTIONS

1 Attend a Carolina Performing Arts’ CURRENT show 2 Head downtown for one of the many festivals year-round 3 Play with a dozen cats in a cage-free lounge at Cat Tales Cat Cafe 4 Line up at the Yogurt Pump (YoPo) and try one of the eight rotating flavors 5 Watch your favorite band perform at Cat’s Cradle 6 Rush Franklin Street after a UNC victory over Duke (or a national championship!)

7 See a movie at the classic Varsity Theatre 8 Walk around a historic neighborhood like the Franklin-Rosemary Historic District to admire the architecture

9 Play trivia at Vecino Brewing Co. with a pint of Hop Trópico Hazy IPA or NUX Indica Coconut Porter

10 Participate in 2nd Friday ArtWalk in Carrboro and Chapel Hill 11 View the latest exhibition at the Ackland Art Museum 12 Indulge in the shrimp and grits or Atlantic Beach Pie at Crook’s Corner 13 Relax on the lawn of Weaver Street Market in Carrboro with the most seasonal flavor of Maple View Farm Ice Cream 14 Sip a pint next to Layla the pug and other dogs at Beer Study 

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

9

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

15 Stop by and say hey to Al Bowers at Al’s Burger Shack and eat what Trip Advisor named the No. 1 best burger in the country (don’t forget the crinkle cut fries!)

16 Take a step back in town history at the Horace Williams House, home to Preservation Chapel Hill

17 Have a picnic in the Coker Arboretum 18 Challenge friends to a round of pool at Zog’s Art Bar & Pool Hall 19 Take your pick of pizzerias on Franklin Street, including Italian Pizzeria III. 20 Flip through records at Schoolkids Records, or at Volume, you have the option to drink from one of 12 rotating taps, too

21 Play your favorite old-school arcade game at The Baxter 22 Try Lula’s signature fried chicken and waffles for Sunday brunch 23 Pick up a six-pack at Carrboro Beverage Company 24 Enjoy an evening of music outside at Fridays on the Front Porch at The Carolina Inn (April-Oct.)

25 Tour Top of the Hill Distillery downtown and taste their line of spirits 26 Buy a cut of meat from Cliff’s Meat Market 27 Pick out new game-day gear at shops like Chapel Hill Sportswear 28 Walk along the banks of the Eno River on the Riverwalk  10

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

DOWNTOWNER My favorite event downtown is... The Bazaar at the Carrboro Town Commons.

My favorite spot for shopping downtown is... This & That.

My go-to meal downtown is... Spot’s Salad with tofu and lemon tamari dressing from The Spotted Dog. Something I’m looking forward to doing downtown is… reserving a time to visit Cat Tales Cat Cafe.

HOLLY MCKINNEY Director of Publishing Operations, The Sun

I would describe downtown as... vibrant, walkable and delicious.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is... at the Blue Dogwood Public Market.

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is... the walking audio tour of the Northside neighborhood, “Soundwalk of Northside.” (Thank you, Jackson Center.)

One hidden gem downtown is... Northside District restaurant/bar.

The Place to Be! CHAPEL HILL FAVORITE FOR 39 YEARS BEST PHILLY CHEESE STEAK IN THE TRIANGLE!

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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11

PHOTO COURTESY TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

ANNUAL MUST-DOS SPRING • Experience cultures from around the globe during Near & Far

29 Catch an afternoon show at Morehead Planetarium and Science

• Run through town during the Tar Heel 10 Miler in April

30 Get a book signed by an author at Purple Crow Books

Center

• Take your pick from a dozen food trucks parked downtown during Rodeo on Rosemary in April

31 Take a tour of the Civil War-era Burwell School, one of the first schools

• Sip local brews all over town during NC Beer Month in April

32 Pose in front of a downtown mural

• Take advantage of free cone day at Ben & Jerry’s in April • Bike, climb, dance and do activities in the streets during Carrboro Open Streets in April • Have your first Blue Ridge Blueberry Wheat of the season at Top of the Hill in April • Head to Carrboro Day the first Sunday in May

in the area to educate women

33 Grab a cone at Whit’s Frozen Custard and head to Gold Park with a blanket and ball

34 Try the daily skillet cornbread at ACME 35 Kiss your sweetheart below the Davie Poplar tree on UNC’s campus 36 Indulge in some Southern fixins at Mama Dip’s 37 Take a pottery or drawing class at The ArtsCenter 38 Get sloppy on Tuesdays at The Wooden Nickel for wing night

• Taste local produce during Strawberry Jamboree at Carrboro Farmers Market in May

39 Shop for trendy pieces at Uniquities

• Enjoy free outdoor concerts during the Freight Train Blues Music Series in May and June

41 Conquer El Gigante Burrito challenge at Bandido’s

40 Sit a spell at University Baptist Church’s Memorial Garden

42 Have brunch under the sun in the Rosé Garden at Oakleaf 

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CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

DOWNTOWNER My favorite event in downtown is… Carrboro Open Streets (in April).

My favorite spot for shopping downtown is... Carr Mill Mall for Harris Teeter and Townsend Bertram & Company.

My go-to meal downtown is… Italian Pizzeria III. I would describe downtown as… somewhat bike friendly, accessible, comfortable.

The best part about working downtown is… being able to train Spoke’n Revolutions youth and bike right outside the office door.

KEVIN HICKS Founder and Executive Director, Triangle Bikeworks

The one thing I’d love to see downtown is… teens from Triangle Bikeworks biking.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… Beer Study.

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is… outdoor movie nights.

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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PHOTO BY ALICIA STEMPER PHOTOGRAPHY, LLC

THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

ANNUAL MUST-DOS SUMMER • Watch a summer movie on top of the Wallace Parking Deck • Try different brews during Cardinal Directions Beer Festival in June • Commemorate the Stonewall riots and celebrate our LGBT community during Carrboro Pride Month in June • Have a happy Fourth of July during the parade in Carrboro • Savor tomatoes as the star of dishes at the annual ACME Tomato Festival in July • Enjoy peak tomato season during Tomato Day at Carrboro Farmers Market in July

43 Grab a milkshake at Sutton’s Drug Store

44 Shop local produce from the Carrboro Farmers Market and the Eno River Farmers Market

45 Head to The Crunkleton for a cocktail 46 People-watch on the patio of The Purple Bowl with an acai bowl in hand 47 Find a mix of eclectic gifts at This & That 48 Dine out for a cause on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Glasshalfull 49 Get late-night cheese fries at Linda’s Bar & Grill 50 Be wowed by Patrick Dougherty’s stickwork sculpture in front of the Ackland

51 Cozy on up to the Lantern bar – or sit outside – for creative dishes from

Andrea Reusing, who won the James Beard Award for Best Chef Southeast

52 Explore the vendors at the food hall Blue Dogwood Public Market 53 Check out live, local bands at Nash Street Tavern 54 Stroll the sidewalks and gallery hop during Last Fridays in Hillsborough 55 Have your fill of south Indian cuisine at CholaNad 56 Watch a UNC game at Four Corners 

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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CHAPEL HILL M E E T S O P P O RT U N I T Y

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DOWNTOWNER My favorite event in downtown is... Last Fridays [in Hillsborough].

The music and art vendors have so much heart!

My favorite spot for shopping in downtown is... Volume for records and beer. They pair well with each other at this cozy shop.

My go-to meal in downtown is... the wings and tots at The Wooden Nickel.

BJ PATEL Partner, Rasoi Ventures

I’m looking forward to... the new global tapas bistro coming to King Street in downtown.

I would describe downtown as... quaint, charming and a bit Hallmark-ish!

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is… the Riverwalk. It’s definitely one of the most serene places around.

One hidden gem in downtown is... Matthew’s Chocolates. It’s a must see and taste!

My favorite event in downtown is... rushing Franklin Street after a Tar Heel victory!

My go-to meal downtown is… any place that serves anything dark chocolate.

I’m looking forward to... downtown being filled with fans and friends on Carolina game days.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… sitting on the sidewalk brick benches.

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is… the UNC Visitors Center when we open in the fall. Until then, come visit us in the rotunda in Hill Hall!

One hidden gem downtown is… the Ackland Art Museum. It always has great exhibitions and displays to enjoy.

What makes Chapel Hill’s downtown special is… on any given day, you can see its connection to the Carolina community and its unique sense of place.

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

RHONDA HUBBARD BEATTY Director, The UNC Visitors Center

chapel hILL

weLcoMe to ouR playGRound.

Home to UNC-Chapel Hill, this is the college town on which all college towns are modeled, a hub of trend-setting sights, sounds, and tastes.

caRRboRo

Nestled in the rolling hills of the North Carolina Piedmont, Orange County is the perfect setting for a trio of unique and charming southern cities: idyllic college-town Chapel Hill; progressive, former railroad and mill town Carrboro; and historic and artsy Hillsborough.

Plug in and chill out with plenty of places to relax, eat, drink, shop, hear wonderful music, see great art, or just people watch.

hILLsboRouGh

ORANGECOUNTYNC.GOV 919.732.8181 VISITCHAPELHILL.ORG 888.968.2060

A small town with a big history boasting a writer’s colony, gourmet restaurants, unique stores, and pastoral views.

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

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THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

ANNUAL MUST-DOS FALL

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

• Listen to bluegrass, jazz and country bands performing each Sunday in September and October and the first Sunday in November during Sundays In Hillsborough • Rock out to dozens of bands during Carrboro Music Festival in September • Experience local bands, contests and games and an original barbecue cook-off contest at Hillsborough Hog Day in September • Join chefs and market farmers for Harvest Dinner, a locally sourced meal at Town Commons in September • Browse more than 100 artists’ booths along West Franklin Street during Festifall in October • Have a day of family-friendly music and community featuring local food and beer during River Park Concert in October • Attend readings, workshops and panels during the West End Poetry Festival in October • Celebrate Halloween in a big way on Franklin Street • Watch films of every length and genre during the Carrboro Film Festival in November

57 Find vegetarian-friendly dishes at Vimala’s and The Spotted Dog 58 Dig through the vintage finds at Rumors 59 Ride the Sky Blue Express to home football games after a beer at Carolina Brewery

60 Shop for unique jewelry at Melissa Designer Jewelry, 108 Churton, Carlisle & Linny Vintage Jewelry or Spiral Studios

61 Take advantage of the margarita special at TRU on Wednesdays 62 Take the kiddos to Radius for some truffle fries and live music on Thursdays and first/last Sundays of the month

63 Explore the historic Alexander Dickson House which also serves as Hillsborough’s Visitors Center

64 Satisfy your caffeine needs at Open Eye Cafe in Carrboro, Perennial in Chapel Hill or Cup A Joe in Hillsborough

65 Shop for a Carolina blue tie at Julian’s 66 Let your creativity run wild and build your own burger at Buns 67 Take your pick from all the different salsas at Carrburritos 

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST

68 Treat what ails you with a cup of kava at Krave, the only kava bar in Orange County

ANNUAL MUST-DOS

69 Try something new to this year’s downtown scene, like Peño

WINTER

Mediterranean Grill, Pho Happiness or Epilogue

• Stroll all three downtowns to check out the decorated shop windows

70 Grab some ‘cue at Hillsborough BBQ Company 71 Peruse contemporary fine art at Eno Gallery

• Grab a seat for the Light Up The Night Holiday Parade in December in downtown Hillsborough

72 Pick up some CBD coffee bags from The Hemp Store NC to kickstart your morning

73 Treat yourself at Monarch Brow & Facial Studio

• Ring in the season with the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade in December

74 Bike around town one sunny afternoon 75 Sip wine on the roof deck at West End Wine Bar

• Deck the halls with festive meals, breakfast with Santa, cookie decorating, holiday teas and markets during the Twelve Days of Christmas at The Carolina Inn in December

76 Slurp on some boba at Cha House or Yaya Tea 77 Finish a blue cup at He’s Not Here CHM

• Tour homes decorated for the holidays during the annual Hillsborough Candlelight Tour • Experience local history during Revolutionary War Living History Day in February • Celebrate Chinese New Year during LIGHTUP Festival in February

PHOTO BY WENJIN YU

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

LOCAL. HANGOUT. F R A N K L I N S T R E E T, C H A P E L H I L L

Scratch kitchen 20 Hi-Def TV’s Voted Best Place to watch a game

8 times!

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CHAPEL HILL | CARRBORO | HILLSBOROUGH

COPYRIGHT TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL

OPEN SPACES IN ANY DOWNTOWN, PARKING CAN BE A HASSLE IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHERE TO LOOK. REFERENCE THESE HANDY MAPS FOR PARKING DECKS, LOTS AND METERED PARKING. 1 Cameron/Graham St. Lot (602 W. Cameron St.) Available weekdays after 5 p.m.; $1/hour; Free on weekends 2 Graham St. Lot (108 S. Graham St.) Available after 6 p.m. & weekends; $1.50/hour; Free after 8 p.m.

3 427 West Franklin Lot (next to Lantern Restaurant) $1.50/hour (4-hour max); Free after 8 p.m., 4 Courtyard Lot (access from S. Roberson St.) $1.50/hour (4-hour max); Free after 8 p.m.

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CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

5 415 West Franklin Lot (next to 411 West) $1.50/hour (4-hour max); Free after 8 p.m.

6 West Franklin Valet (400 W. Franklin St.) Monday-Saturday, 5-9 p.m.; Free to participating restaurants; $5 for others 7 UNC 440 South Lot (400 W. Rosemary St.) Available weekdays after 5 p.m.; $1/hour; Free on weekends 8 UNC 440 North Lot (401 W. Rosemary St.) Available weekdays after 5 p.m.; $1/hour; Free on weekends

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

DOWNTOWN CHAPEL HILL 9 Mallette Street Lot (106 Mallette St.) 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday-Saturday; $1.50/hour; Free after 8 p.m. & all day Sunday

E Rosemary Street nL

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TOWN HALL

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13

17 Swain Lot (access on E. Cameron Ave.) Available weekdays after 5 p.m.; $1/hour; Free on weekends 18 Wallace Deck (150 E. Rosemary St.) 8 a.m.- 8 p.m., Monday-Saturday; $1/hour; Free after 8 p.m. & all day Sunday

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16

Bl

14 Columbia Street

12 Pritchard Ave

11

14 Rosemary/Columbia Lot (100 E. Rosemary St.) 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday-Saturday; $1.50/hour; Free after 8 p.m. & all day Sunday

16 Porthole Alley Lot (access near 101 S. Columbia St.) Available weekdays after 5 p.m.; $1/hour; Free on weekends

18

Cameron Avenue

rti

North St

Ma

13 PNC/Sea Turtle Lot (164 N. Columbia St.) Available after 6 p.m.

Church St

10 Metered Parking On-street meters are $1.75/ hr; off-street meters are $1.50/ hr. Both accept coin & credit (2-hour max) Free after 6 p.m. & all day Sunday Lot Parking All lots are free on Sunday except the Morehead Planetarium & 140 West Garage

8

W Franklin Street

15 Rosemary Deck (125 E. Rosemary St.) 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday-Saturday; $1/hour; Free after 8 p.m. & all day Sunday

UNC CAMPUS

Henderson St

9

Mit

Mallette St

Kenan St

7 che

ll Ln

6

5 Yates Court

3 Rob

4

erso

S Roberson St

n St

All paid lots accept coin and card Visit parkonthehill.com for more information

Carrboro

12 104 West Rosemary Lot (104 W. Rosemary St.) 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday-Saturday; $1.50/ hour; Free after 8 p.m. & all day Sunday

19 Old Well

10 UNC Development Lot (307 W. Rosemary St.) Available weekdays after 5 p.m.; $1/hour; Free on weekends 11 140 West Deck (access at 201 W. Rosemary St.) 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Monday-Saturday; $1/ hour; Free after 8 p.m. & all day Sunday

E Franklin Street

Raleigh St

S Graham St

2

1

Merritt Mill Rd

19 Morehead Planetarium Lot (250 E. Franklin St.) $1.75/hour THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

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Fidelity St

PARKING Bim St

Farmers Market

1

DOWNTOWN CARRBORO

Carrboro Town Hall

1

1 Town Commons/Farmers Market Additional parking available to Saturday farmers market patrons.

Ashe St

Laurel Ave

es Jon

1 n

y Rd Ferr

ai

W

St

2 Chapel Hill Tire Lot Lot available to Saturday farmers market patrons.

Elm St

M

3 Akai Hana Lot Lot available to Saturday farmers market patrons.

2 3

Lindsay St

4 West Weaver Street Lot Enter off Weaver Street across from PNC Bank.

4

Poplar St

W Weaver St

W Main St

5 PNC Bank Lot Lot available to Saturday farmers market patrons.

5 Oak Ave

Center St Short St

Fitch Lumber

7 Carr Mill Parking Spaces for Carr Mill Mall only. Free for customers.

6 Greensboro St

W

7

ea v

e

Carr Mill Mall

er

Maple Av

8 Municipal Parking Lot across Roberson Street from Open Eye.

E

9 Municipal Parking Lot behind ACME. Follow municipal signs and enter the lot off East Main Street and Roberson Street.

St

Harris Teeter

St

10

7

Weaver Street Market

E Main St

Roberson

9

11

12 ArtsCenter Lot Free parking for customers only.

Lloyd St

Cat’s Cradle

12

13 Hampton Inn Parking Deck Access to deck behind Hampton Inn is off East Main Street and Boyd Street. See signage for free parking directions.

ArtsCenter

13

10 Carr Mill Employee Lot Lot available for long-term parking on weekends.

11 Municipal Parking Gravel lot across the street from the Armadillo Grill.

Hampton Inn

14 Rosemary Street Lot Enter off Sunset Drive.

St

ain

St

W Rosemary

Boyd

EM

Carr St

Century Center

8

6 Municipal Parking Lot Across from the Century Center, behind Cliff’s Meat Market.

Sunset Dr

St

14 r Me

Farmers Market Parking

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ill R

M ritt

Municipal Parking 2-hour limit, 7 a.m.– 5:30 p.m.; Unlimited after 5:30 p.m.

Additional Public Parking On-Street Parking

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Spend an hour in the company of our 12 friendly adoptable cats.

Our 2 Story space is a happy place for feline fanatics to interact with kitties in a comfortable, free-roaming environment.

Offering coffee, tea, beer, wine, other fun beverages, and tasty sweet treats.

A great place for private parties and special events.

RESERVATIONS STRONGLY RECOMENDED

For more information and to make your reservation, please visit Cattalescatcafe.com 431 W. Franklin St., Suite 210 Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Sophisticated Farm to Table Dining in the heart of Downtown Carrboro

COME EXPERIENCE THE ROSÉ GARDEN OUTDOOR DINING & DRINKING TROPICAL OASIS Lunch • Brunch • Dinner • Drinks

East Main Square • 310 East Main St., Carrboro, NC (Next to Cat’s Cradle) • 984.234.0054 • oakleafnc.com Lunch: Mon-Fri 11-2 • Brunch: Sat & Sun 10-2 • Dinner: Mon-Thurs 5-9, Fri & Sat 5-10 • Bar & Patio Open All Day

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PARKING

Rd

To US 70, NC 86N, NC 57

ar y’s

N Churton St

Hillsborough Police Station

St M

4 E King St

Wake St

Orange County Public Library

Orange County Campus West Office Building

Orange County Courthouse

Hillsborough Visitors Center

Link Center

5

Gateway Center

1

Public Market

EnoHouse River Farmers Market

Nash & Kollock St

Ex ch

an

ge

Pa r

kL

n

2

To I-85, I-40, NC 86S

DOWNTOWN HILLSBOROUGH Public parking is FREE!

1 Eno River Parking Deck Public parking. No time limit.

2 Link Center/Cameron Street Lot Public parking. No time limit.

3 Mayo Park Parking Lot Public parking. 3-hour time limit.

Public Parking No Time Limit

4 King Street Parking Lot Public parking. 3-hour time limit.

On-Street Parking On-Street Parking

5 David Price Farmers Market Pavilion Parking Lot Public parking. No time limit.

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Public Parking 3-Hour Time Limit

Parking time limits applied 8 a.m.

- 6 p.m., Monday-Saturday CHM

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

Cameron St

Margaret Ln

Historic Courthouse

Court St

3

S Churton St

Wake St

W King St

GET THE APP Download the Parkmobile app and pay using your smartphone! If you’re driving a different car than the one you registered, you can quickly change the license plate number to activate your parking session. You can get notifications, and extend your parking session!

FEEL FREE TO PARK FREE 1. Enjoy FREE valet parking at nine downtown restaurants!

2. Parking is FREE on Sundays, holidays, or with your Accessible Parking placard!

3. Shop, eat, and enjoy downtown with FREE parking every Saturday in July and December!

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAROLINA PERFORMING ARTS

CHAPEL HILL | CARRBORO | HILLSBOROUGH

ARTS FROM FESTIVALS AND EXHIBITS TO MURALS AND PERFORMANCES, HERE ARE SOME OF OUR FAVORITE WAYS TO EXPERIENCE A RANGE OF CULTURE DOWNTOWN Carolina Performing Arts opened CURRENT ArtSpace + Studio off West Franklin Street in Carolina Square in early 2018

PHOTO BY JON GARDINER/UNC-CHAPEL HILL

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

with the interactive “Sound Maze” installation (left). The nearly 7,000-square-foot space is divided into two areas: the ArtSpace, the main performance space, and the Studio, a multipurpose rehearsal and performance space. Recent performances include Kid Koala sharing an innovative collection of dreamy, atmospheric tracks while audience members (above) had the chance to contribute to his fluid stream of sounds through mini turntable stations.

PHOTO BY JOSHUA STEADMAN

ABOVE People of all ages and

backgrounds partnered up and gathered for an evening of contra dancing in March. Join them every week at the Carrboro Century Center.

LEFT The Wood Brothers,

PHOTO BY ELIZABETH SARNO

pictured here, performed at the fourth annual River Park Concert last fall. This year’s lineup includes Anders Osborne, Samantha Fish, Ruby Velle & The Soulphonics, and local favorite The Eno Mountain Boys on Oct. 19.

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ARTS

Community and UNC cultural groups like Huepa Culture & Arts Institute, a Latin

American performing arts organization, shared their heritage through a performance at Near & Far Fest, a festival held in April at 140 West Plaza in Chapel Hill.

PHOTO BY STEVEN PAUL WHITSITT PHOTOGRAPHY

DOWNTOWNER My favorite event in downtown is... when Franklin Street is rushed after a win over Duke or a national championship!

My go-to meal downtown is… a chicken biscuit from Lula’s or loaded sweet potato tots from Linda’s.

I would describe downtown as… passionate, friendly and spirited.

The one thing I’d love to see downtown is… argyle crosswalks and more Carolina blue.

ELIZABETH FLAKE Vice Chair, Downtown Partnership Board of Directors

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… CURRENT or just people-watching anywhere on Franklin Street.

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is… Sup Dogs and the view from TOPO. One hidden gem downtown is… the Bitter Southerner No. 8 Cocktail at The Crunkleton.

What makes Chapel Hill’s downtown special is… the people. Our energy and love for our downtown is contagious!

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Take time to create.

Thank you for voting us your Favorite Performing Arts Venue!

• Art Classes • Summer Camps • Performances • Exhibitions

Serving Carrboro, Chapel Hill and Orange County for 45 years

artscenterlive.org

@ artscenterlive

300-G East Main Street, Carrboro, NC • (919) 929-2787

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ARTS

Around Chapel Hill, you’ll spot a string of beloved murals ranging from sea turtles to paint-by-number football players that were created by artist Michael Brown.

Another popular mural is “Greetings from Chapel Hill” (2013), which wallpapers the backside of Chapel Hill’s legendary bar He’s Not Here and was created by artist Scott Nurkin. Here Carrboro architects Doug Pierson and Youn Choi and their children, Oscar, 17, and Sora, 14, pose in front of the iconic mural. CHM

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

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CHAPEL HILL

THE STATE OF DOWNTOWN MATT GLADDEK, THE NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE CHAPEL HILL DOWNTOWN PARTNERSHIP, SHARES HIS PERSPECTIVE

by Michael McElroy | photo courtesy Town of Chapel Hill

D

owntown Chapel Hill

stretches only .31 square miles across two parallel spines, but its heart is vast. It beats in the masses of UNC alumni, current students and future students coursing through Franklin and Rosemary streets. It beats in the transplants lured by the town’s laid-back and high-end charms.

And it beats in those who moved here, fell in love, left and, when enough was enough, just had to move back.

Matt Gladdek, the new executive director of the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership, is a little of all three.

Matt is a Massachusetts native, went to grad school at UNC and then worked for Downtown Durham, Inc. In January he was hired to oversee the partnership’s mission: to drive economic development and to “maintain, enhance and promote downtown as the social, cultural and spiritual center of Chapel Hill.”

It’s a wide purview, and there is plenty of material to work with.

Downtown has a bustling retail and hospitality district worthy of larger cities, offering premier restaurants, high-end clothing stores, bike shops, bars, coffee shops, hotels, and, as the saying goes, so much more.

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BUSINESS RESOURCES WHERE TO GET STARTED

Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce 104 S. Estes Dr., Chapel Hill 919-967-7075 carolinachamber.org Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership 308 W. Rosemary St., Ste. 202, Chapel Hill 919-967-9440 downtownchapelhill.com Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce 200 N. Churton St., Hillsborough 919-732-8156 hillsboroughchamber.com

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Chapel Hill Economic Development 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Chapel Hill 919-969-5010 open2.biz What they provide: Information about retaining and supporting existing jobs and attracting new jobs within the context of the Town of Chapel Hill’s adopted comprehensive plan.

Carrboro Economic and Community Development 301 W. Main St., Carrboro 919-918-7319 townofcarrboro.org What they provide: Business support, including a revolving loan program available to new and existing Carrboro endeavors.

Orange County Economic Development 131 W. Margaret Ln., Ste. 205, Hillsborough 919-245-2325 growinorangenc.com What they provide: Free information and assistance on topics including demographics and statistics for the county and region, available office and industrial space, explanations of local government regulations and procedures and contacts for small business counseling and financing.

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BUSINESS

You can also get your shirts pressed, retain a lawyer, attend prayer services, meditate after a yoga class, get your teeth cleaned and get your tires rotated, all within walking distance.

The future is well represented too, as Google has an office here and Launch Chapel Hill spends its days nurturing startups and the next generation of entrepreneurial leadership.

And nearly 8,000 people live downtown, creating the blueprint for a self-sustainable community and commercial district.

“There are a lot of really fantastic people,” Matt says, “who really have invested a lot in this place, who are working very hard to keep downtown Chapel Hill a unique and vibrant place.”

It is the partnership’s job, he says to “make sure we are promoting the local people who are investing their blood, sweat and tears in our community and making sure they are set up for success.”

Chapel Hill “needs to be the best urban village,” he says, “and that’s the best way I can think to describe it and maybe there’s a better term.”

Chapel Hill can indeed be difficult to fully encapsulate, if not to define. And that is part of the challenge.

In many ways, Chapel Hill is still trying to figure out what it wants to be, as residents, businesses and city leaders seek to retain both the town’s traditional charm and its power to lure innovators from rapidly evolving industries. Nostalgia and innovation can sometimes pull in opposite directions, and smart people who love this town have often clashing views on how to negotiate that balance.

“Those challenges and struggles are very real,” Matt says, and the town is “dealing with a lot of changes in the office and retail market.”

Despite the challenges and conflicting visions, however, he says that common ground is not just possible, it’s right under foot.

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AN INCUBATOR Launch Chapel Hill is a business accelerator on Franklin Street that provides mentoring, networking opportunities, workspace and other resources to select startups. Each year the group offers two 16-week programs and has an alumni roster of more than 75 members.

The startups in its program offer a glimpse of the town’s entrepreneurial reach. Below is Launch’s most recent roster: Acta: A digital platform that streamlines “the collection of insightful data from residents to drive better decision making by local governments.”

Anansi: An app platform that matches “students with teachers in their communities so that anyone can share and learn skills for free.”

Phoenyx: A company that “creates ethical and sustainable bags from recycled billboard to offer jobs to people experiencing homelessness.”

Phyta: An environmental company that, among other things, “designs new strategies for cultivating seaweed” for use as an alternative to plastic.

Quest2College: A web-based simulation that helps “underserved middle school students develop strategies to prepare for, get accepted to, afford and complete college.”

Raise Technologies: A company building a marketplace for entrepreneurs and social ventures to access funding opportunities and that uses artificial intelligence to improve connections.

SaniStation: A mobile “pod that houses basic hygiene essentials and hand washing water in public locations.”

Shearless: An online marketplace for digital sewing patterns.

Sp0t: A mobile app that allows a user to customize and share maps “of unique places” around them.

X2 Health: A healthcare company working to develop “the first low-cost, non-invasive, rapid-result device that detects the presence of high-risk strains of Human Papillomavirus.”

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

DOWNTOWNER My favorite spot for shopping downtown is… Chapel Hill Sportswear.

My go-to meal downtown is… Mediterranean Deli.

Something I’m looking forward to downtown is… seeing a more vibrant downtown that is biking/walking friendly with beautiful green streetscapes, high-quality building design, interesting history/ arts/cultural destinations and public spaces.

HONGBIN GU Member, Chapel Hill Town Council

I would describe downtown as… the living room and beating heart of Chapel Hill.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… Sutton’s Drug Store.

One hidden gem downtown is... The PIT Chapel Hill.

What makes Chapel Hill’s downtown special is… the opportunity to experience local restaurants, specialty stores and storied destinations.

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BUSINESS

COWORKING OPPORTUNITIES DOWNTOWN Bluedoor Studio 405 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill bluedoor.us Amenities: Rentable space for health and wellnessrelated workshops, events and companies with highspeed broadband, full-service bar and AV equipment.

C3 128 N. Churton St., Hillsborough c3hillsborough.com Amenities: Ergonomic chairs, electric desks, standing desks, high-speed internet, coffee, conference rooms, and restaurants that are within walking distance.

Cost: Day passes, $20 for 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Carolina Coworking, LLC 206 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill carolinacoworking.com Amenities: Break room with free coffee, shower and changing room, private call rooms, locking storage and laser printing, conference center with digital projection and 24-foot whiteboard, coworking desks with standup meeting areas, private offices for two with motorized sit/stand desks and large mobile whiteboards.

Cost: Coworking monthly subscriptions $249. Private office monthly subscriptions $400. Conference center $100 per hour for nonmembers. Coworking day passes $25.

Perch Coworking 106 S. Greensboro St., Suite E, Carrboro perch-coworking.com Amenities: Carrboro Coffee Roasters, fast, reliable WiFi, conference room, phone booth, office suites, personal desks and communal table, plus many events such as yoga, mindfulness and business seminars.

Cost: $175-$450.

“I’m not sure anyone needs to put down their idea of what Chapel Hill means, unless their idea is lots of skyscrapers downtown,” he says. “Chapel Hill is incredible and charming, and a beautiful space, but it also has things that we can improve.”

On the cultural side of the partnership’s mission, for the meantime, recent initiatives to increase the arts downtown have generated both excitement and results.

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Google’s Chapel Hill offices located are right on Franklin Street.

The partnership, along with Emil Kang, the executive and artistic director of Carolina Performing Arts, and Susan Brown, the town’s executive director for community arts and culture, have helped bring pop-up events to downtown at the former Ackland Art Museum Store space at 109 E. Franklin St., space donated by UNC. They hope to continue utilizing the space, offering a diverse collection of artists to help temporarily fill any empty storefronts.

This vibrant mix of arts and food, legacy businesses and startups help make Chapel Hill unique, Matt says, and despite his history here, in many ways he is walking these streets with fresh eyes.

He’s had more than 200 meetings and visits as many of the restaurants and shops as he can.

“Because my organization is funded by the businesses and properties in this area, it is imperative for me to spend just about every expendable dollar here.”

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

BUSINESS

He may see it as part of his job, but he makes it sound more like a perk.

“We have some really incredible restaurants. Al’s [Burger Shack] is fantastic, I get my haircut at Syd’s [Hair Shop], I routinely pick out beers to take home from Beer Study, I think Lula’s has some of the best fried chicken I’ve ever had, Lantern is incredible.

Elaine’s is great, 411 [West]. And we have diners that anyone else in the Triangle would kill for.”

Each of these individual parts, he says, helps explain the allure of the whole.

“Just last night, I went by myself and I got the shrimp and grits at Crook’s Corner, which was transcendent,” he says. He sat outside on the patio in the warm early evening. Afterward, he walked down Franklin Street at sunset. “It just felt like a quintessentially Chapel Hill evening,” he says.

“I don’t know,” he says, “it’s a beautiful town.” CHM PHOTO BY BETH MANN

Contemporary South Indian Cuisine.

Fine Dining. Patio Dining.

Complimentary Valet Parking.

308 West Franklin Street Downtown Chapel Hill 919.537.8258 | 1.800.CholaNad cholanad.com

Voted ‘Best in Class in the Triangle’ 6 years in a row.

We also serve at 3 locations on UNC Campus.

Catering for private parties & events available THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

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CHAPEL HILL | CARRBORO | HILLSBOROUGH

DINING GUIDE Ms. Mong Mongolian BBQ, banh mi, fusion burritos.

163 E. Franklin St.; 919-933-5277

CHAPEL HILL East Franklin Street Bandido’s Mexican Cafe Burritos, salads, quesadillas, tacos. 159-1/2 E. Franklin St.; 919-967-5048; bandidoscafe.com Benny Cappella’s Pizza, by the slice or whole pie.

122 E. Franklin St.; 919-240-5286; bennysva.com/ BennyCappellas Blue Spoon Microcreamery Homemade cryogenic ice cream and fresh brewed coffee and espresso drinks.

140 E. Franklin St. Carolina Coffee Shop The mainstay serves casual American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

138 E. Franklin St.; 919-942-6875; carolinacoffeeshop.com Cosmic Cantina Burritos, salads, quesadillas, tacos.

128 E. Franklin St.; 919-960-3955 Four Corners American fare, nachos, wings, pasta. 175 E. Franklin St.; 919-537-8230; fourcornersgrille.com

Epilogue Independent bookstore and Spanish-style chocolatería. 109 E. Franklin St., Ste. 100; 919-913-5055; epiloguebookcafe.com Hibachi & Company Japanese fast-casual spot serving healthy hibachi- and teriyaki-style dishes. 153 E. Franklin St.; 919-903-8428; hibachicompany.com Imbibe Bottle shop and restaurant featuring pizza, salads and appetizers. 108 Henderson St.; 919-636-6469; imbibenc.com Linda’s Bar & Grill Local beer, sweet potato tots, cheese fries, burgers. 203 E. Franklin St.; 919-933-6663; lindas-bar.com Lula’s “Simple food made the hard way,” like fried chicken, homemade biscuits, farm-to-table veggies and more. Go upstairs for meals served family-style. 101 E. Franklin St.; 919-967-2678; lulaschapelhill.com

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Peño Meditteranean Grill Signature dishes like gyrö sandwiches, gyrö bowls, sandwiches and salads prepared fresh daily.

105 E. Franklin St.; 919-391-3706; penogrill.com Shanghai Dumpling Dumplings, pork buns, hotpots.

143 E. Franklin St.; 919-914-6737 Sup Dogs Creative hot dogs and sides like jalapeño popper tots and funnel cake sticks. 107 E. Franklin St.; 919-903-9566; supdogs.com Sutton’s Drug Store Old-fashioned diner known for its hot dogs, burgers and sandwiches like the “Dean Dome Deluxe” and “Roy’s Reuben.” 159 E. Franklin St.; 919-942-5161; suttonsdrugstore.com Time-Out Southern comfort food 24 hours a day.

201 E. Franklin St.; 919-929-2425; timeout247.com Top of the Hill A Chapel Hill brewery that also offers American food, like burgers and flatbreads. 100 E. Franklin St.; 919-929-8676; thetopofthehill.com TRU Deli & Wine Sandwiches and wine. 114 Henderson St.; 919-240-7755; trudeli.com Yaya Tea Japanese cafe with a variety of bubble teas, onigiri (rice balls) and imported Japanese snacks.

157 E. Franklin St.; 919-914-6302; yayatea.com/nc Ye Olde Waffle Shoppe Waffles, pancakes, eggs. 173 E. Franklin St.; 919-929-9192; yeoldewaffleshoppe.com West Franklin Street

411 West The menu – including fresh pasta, seafood and pizzas – is inspired by the flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean, with a healthy California twist; outdoor dining; all ABC permits.

411 W. Franklin St.; 919-967-2782; 411west.com

Al’s Burger Shack Gourmet burgers and fries with local ingredients. 516 W. Franklin St.; 919-904-7659; alsburgershack.com

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

B. GOOD Seasonal, sustainably sourced burgers, salads and bowls that rotate with local harvests.

133 W. Franklin St.; 984-255-1455; bgood.com

Elaine’s on Franklin Fine regional American cuisine, made with the freshest local ingredients; all ABC permits. 454 W. Franklin St.; 919-960-2770; elainesonfranklin.com

Beer Study Bottle shop with in-store drafts and growlers to go. 106 N. Graham St.; 919-240-5423; beerstudy.com

Frutta Bowls Serves bowls with bases of acai, pitaya, oatmeal or kale, in addition to smoothies. 140 W. Franklin St., Ste. 120; 984-999-4427; fruttabowls.com

Blue Dogwood Public Market Food hall with individuallyowned food stalls. Choices include traditional Persian, BLUE DOGWOOD Southern soul food, LatinMarket. Food hall. Community. inspired vegan, North Carolina barbecue, gluten-free Italian desserts, homemade ice cream, local beer and cider on draft. 306 W. Franklin St.; 919-717-0404; bluedogwood.com

Boro Beverage Kombucha Bar Locally made kombucha and craft sodas on tap. 400 W. Rosemary St., Ste. 1005; 919-537-8001; borobeverage.com

Ice Lab Rolled ice cream and shaved ice.

405 W. Franklin St.; 919-240-5695 Italian Pizzeria III Pizza, calzones, subs. The “place to be” in Chapel Hill for 35+ years. 508 W. Franklin St.; 919-968-4671; italianpizzeria3.com Kipos Greek cuisine in a relaxed, upscale setting; outdoor dining. 431 W. Franklin St.; 919-425-0760; kiposchapelhill.com

Bread & Butter Bread, cinnamon rolls, scones, desserts. 503 W. Rosemary St.; 919-960-5998; chapelhillbakery.com Breadmen’s A variety of burgers, sandwiches, salads and grilled meat, with daily soup and specials. All-day breakfast; vegetarian options. Catering available.

324 W. Rosemary St.; 919-967-7110; breadmens.com BUNS Serves gourmet burgers, fries and shakes made from fresh ingredients. 107 N. Columbia St.; 919-240-4746; bunsofchapelhill.com

Kurama Sushi & Noodle Express Dumplings, salads, noodle dishes. 105 N. Columbia St.; 919-968-4747; kuramasushinoodle.com Lantern Pan-Asian cuisine. 423 W. Franklin St.; 919-969-8846; lanternrestaurant.com

L A

Carolina Brewery The fifth-oldest brewery in the state featuring Carolina cuisine. 460 W. Franklin St.; 919-942-1800; carolinabrewery.com

Cat Tales Cat Cafe A two-story coffee/beer/wine cafe home to 12 adoptable cats. 431 W. Franklin St.; cattalescatcafe.com

CholaNad Restaurant & Bar Contemporary and traditional South Indian cuisine. Catering available. 308 W. Franklin St.; 800-246-5262; cholanad.com Crook’s Corner Southern classics like shrimp and grits, Hoppin’ John and jalapeño-cheddar hushpuppies.

610 W. Franklin St.; 919-929-7643; crookscorner.com Crossroads Chapel Hill at the Carolina Inn New American cuisine and seasonal specialties; all ABC permits. 211 Pittsboro St.; 919-918-2777; crossroadscuisine.com

Heavenly Buffaloes Chicken wings (bone-in and boneless) as well as vegan wings in more than 25 rubs and sauces. 407 W. Franklin St.; 919-914-6717; heavenlybuffaloes.com

R É S I D E N C E

La Résidence French-inspired cuisine made from fresh ingredients. 202 W. Rosemary St.; 919-967-2506; laresidencedining.com Lime & Basil Vietnamese fare. 200 W. Franklin St.; 919-967-5055; limeandbasil.com LOTSA Stone Fired Pizza Choose from a menu of signature pizzas or build your own with a variety of sauces, cheeses and toppings. 100 W. Franklin St.; 919-391-4100; lotsa.com Mama Dip’s Traditional Southern specialties, including a country breakfast and brunch and dinner classics like fried chicken and Brunswick stew. 408 W. Rosemary St.; 919-942-5837; mamadips.com Mediterranean Deli Offers healthy vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options as well as delicious meats from the grill. 410 W. Franklin St.; 919-967-2666; mediterraneandeli.com Mellow Mushroom Classic Southern pizza with glutenfree pizza options. 310 W. Franklin St.; 919-929-1941; mellowmushroom.com/store/chapel-hill

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DINING GUIDE

Might As Well Bar & Grill Bar favorites like cheese fries plus pizza, burgers, wings, salads and more.

206 W. Franklin St.; 984-234-3333; chapelhill.mightaswellbarandgrill.com Mint North Indian subz korma and chicken jalfrezi.

504 W. Franklin St.; 919-929-6188; mintunc.com

The Pizza Press Build your own pizza with dozens of ingredient choices or choose a pre-designed signature pizza. Also enjoy salads and a large selection of craft beer. 133 W. Franklin St., Ste. 120; 984-234-0081; thepizzapress.com The Purple Bowl Acai bowls, toast, smoothies, coffee. 306-B W. Franklin St.; 919-903-8511; purplebowlch.com

Moe’s Southwest Grill Made-to-order burritos, nachos, quesadillas and more. 110 W. Franklin St.; 919-914-6217; moes.com The Northside District Specialty cocktails and international small plates. 403 W. Rosemary St.; 919-391-7044; thenorthsidedistrict.com Perennial Coffee and pastries; 403 W. Franklin St.; 919-869-7517; perennial.cafe

Pho Happiness Pho noodle soup, rice plates, vermicelli plates and vegetarian/ gluten-free options. 508A W. Franklin St.; 919-942-8201; phohappiness.com

Spicy 9 Sushi Bar & Asian Restaurant Sushi, Thai curries, bibimbap and other Asian entrees. 140 W. Franklin St.; 919-903-9335; spicy9chapelhill.com Talulla’s Authentic Turkish cuisine; all ABC permits.

456 W. Franklin St.; 919-933-1177; talullas.com Trolly Stop - The Beach on Franklin Specialty hot dogs and burgers. 104 W. Franklin St.; 919-240-4206; trollystophotdogs.com Vimala’s Curryblossom Café Traditional Indian tandoori and thali. 431 W. Franklin St.; 919-929-3833; curryblossom.com West End Wine Bar Pastries, light tapas, 100 wines.

450 W. Franklin St.; 919-967-7599; westendwinebar.com Windows Restaurant at the Franklin Hotel New American breakfast cuisine. 311 W. Franklin St.; 919-442-9000

The Place to Chill on the Hill Since 1982 Burritos, Tacos, Nachos, Margaritas &

S A L S A! Discover what “Best Of” is made of!

Now Offering Catering Office Weddings Birthdays Showers 711 W Rosemary St. Carrboro carrburritos.com 919.933.8226

Downtown Chapel Hill • 106 W. Franklin St. 919.942.7867 • www.yogurtpump.com 42

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Monday - Saturday 11 am - 10 pm Closed Sunday

Bringing Chapel Hill Tradition to your table

Breakfast

Brunch

Porch Dining Parking Available

Lunch

Dinner

Catering for Every Occasion

Lunch & Dinner Mon-Sun 11 am - 9 pm Breakfast/Brunch Sat & Sun 8 am - 1 pm



Voted Favorite Comfort & Southern Food in Chapel Hill!

408 W. Rosemary St., Chapel Hill 919.942.5837 mamadips.com

DINING GUIDE

Yogurt Pump Since 1982, YoPo has served up frozen yogurt treats and shakes with unique flavors. 106 W. Franklin St.; 919-942-7867; yogurtpump.com

Glasshalfull Mediterranean-inspired food and wine; outdoor dining; all ABC permits. 106 S. Greensboro St.; 919-967-9784; glasshalfull.net Gourmet Kingdom Sichuan cuisine. 301 E. Main St.; 919-932-7222; thegourmetkingdom.com Honeysuckle Cafe and Bar Coffee house serving smoothies, tea and meads in addition to breakfast, lunch and dinner fare. 601 W. Main St.; 919-967-9398; thehoneysuckle.org/cafe-bar

CARRBORO Downtown Acme Food & Beverage Co. Soups, salads, seafood and entrees with a Southern touch.

110 E. Main St.; 919-929-2263; acmecarrboro.com

Krave Kava Bar & Tea Lounge Offers a wide range of tea and herbal drinks, all made from kava, Exotic Root Beverages & Teas a type of plant root. The tea has an earthy flavor and isMainsaid to• 919.408.9596 heal anxiety, pain and other ailments.

105 West Street, Carrboro facebook.com/kravekava 105 W. Main St.; 919-408-9596; kravekava.com Open 7 Days A Week 12pm-12am

12pm-1am Fri/Sat

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Akai Hana Japanese cuisine including sushi, tempura and teriyaki. 206 W. Main St.; 919-942-6848; akaihana.com Armadillo Grill Tex-Mex burritos, enchiladas, tacos, nachos. 120 E. Main St.; 919-929-4669; armadillogrill.com

5/16/19 11:14 PM

Market Street Coffee & Ice Cream Coffee, ice cream and pastries. 100 E. Weaver St.; 919-960-6776; marketstcoffee.com Mel’s Luncheonette & Catering Open for lunch, Mel’s serves up a changing menu of comfort food.

109 W. Main St.; 919-240-7700; melscarrboro.com

Carrburritos Burritos, tacos, nachos and margaritas.

711 W. Rosemary St.; 919-933-8226; carrburritos.com

240 SOUTH NASH STREET | HILLSBOROUGH | 919.245.8123  

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vecinobrewing.com 300 E MAIN ST C - CARRBORO, NC 27510 - 919.537.9591

DINING GUIDE

Napoli Cafe Wood-fired pizza, espresso, artisanal gelato made from scratch, teas and local craft beer and wines.

105 E. Main St.; 919-667-8288; napolicarrboro.com

Tyler’s Restaurant and Taproom Specialty import beers on tap and traditional pub fare. 102 E. Main St.; 919-9296881; tylerstaproom.com

Neal’s Deli Buttermilk biscuits and traditional deli fare.

100-C E. Main St.; 919-967-2185; nealsdeli.com

Wings Over Has 18 flavors of wings. 313 E. Main St.; 919-537-8271; wingsoverchapelhill.com

Oakleaf “Immediate” cuisine like pastas and seafood using ingredients from the chef’s own garden. 310 E. Main St.; 984-234-0054; oakleafnc.com

Open Eye Cafe Locally roasted Carrboro Coffee and espresso, tea, beer, wine and baked goods. 101 S. Greensboro St.; 919-968-9410; openeyecafe.com Pizzeria Mercato Pizza, antipasto, soups and fritti. 408 W. Weaver St.; 919-967-2277; pizzeriamercatonc.com

East Main Square Amante Gourmet Pizza Create-your-own pizzas. 300 E. Main St.; 919-929-3330; amantepizza.com Gray Squirrel Coffee Co. Roastery and espresso bar.

360 E. Main St., Ste. 100; graysquirrelcoffee.com Hickory Tavern Burgers, sandwiches and buildyour-own salads. 370-110 E. Main St.; 919-942-7417; thehickorytavern.com One Fish Two Fish Hawaiian poke restaurant offering the traditional raw fish over rice and salad bowls, as well as poke burritos, nachos and tacos. 370 E. Main St., Ste. 180; 919-240-5851; onefishtwofishpoke.com

Provence Southern French cuisine. 203 W. Weaver St.; 919-967-5008; provenceofcarrboro.com

Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken Biscuits, chicken and coffee. 310 E. Main St., Ste. 100; 919-9295115; risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Spotted Dog Vegetarian-friendly appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, desserts. 111 E. Main St.; 919-933-1117; thespotteddogrestaurant.com

Spike’s Hot Chicken N Dogs Nashville-style hot chicken and hot dogs. 370 E. Main St., Ste. 180; 919-240-5851; spikeshotchicken.com

BLUE DOGWOOD MEXICAN CAFE home of

"EL GIGANTE" the biggest burrito in the triangle 4 1/2 pounds!

Public market. Food hall. Community.

We thank you for your friendship and support, today and every day.

featuring our award winning salad bar catering for all occasions corporate, families - big & small

306 W Franklin St, Ch ap el Hill C lo sed Mon day an d Tuesday Free parking lot | 919.717.0404 bluedogwood.com   

"the bandido's taco truck available for all your events"

919 572 1677 bandidoscafe.com

chapel hill & hillsborough THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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DINING GUIDE

Vecino Brewing Company Dozens of craft beer choices plus dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Flavorful small plates, salads and sandwiches. 300 E. Main St., Ste. C; 919-537-9591; vecinobrewing.com Carr Mill Mall

HILLSBOROUGH Antonia’s Italian cuisine. 101 N. Churton St.; 919-643-7722; antoniashillsborough.com Bandido’s Mexican Cafe Burritos, salads, quesadillas, tacos. 122 S. Churton St.; 919-732-8662; bandidoscafe.com

B-Side Lounge Small plates like flatbread, baconwrapped dates and fondue. Plus, inspired cocktails.

919-904-7160; b-sidelounge.com

El Restaurante Ixtapa Authentic from-scratch Mexican dishes. 162 Exchange Park Ln.; 919-644-6944; ixtapa. homestead.com/homepage.html

Carrboro Pizza Oven Pizza, calzones. 919-904-7336; carrboropizzaoven.com

Hillsborough BBQ Company Barbecue plates and sandwiches, sides and desserts. 236 S. Nash St.; 919-732-4647; hillsboroughbbq.com

Elmo’s Diner Homemade Southern and American classics. 919-929-2909; elmosdinercarrboro.com Oasis Organic coffee, tea, beer and wine. 919-904-7343; oasisincarrmill.com Tandem Farm-to-table, modern American cuisine with full service bar. 919-240-7937; tandemcarrboro.com Venable Rotisserie Bistro Upscale comfort food with a heavy emphasis on locally sourced and seasonal ingredients; all ABC permits. 919-904-7160; venablebistro.com Weaver Street Market Hot bar and salad bar for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 919-929-0010; weaverstreetmarket.coop

Hot Tin Roof Games and specialty cocktails. 115 W. Margaret Ln.; 919-296-9113; hottinroofbar.com James Pharmacy Fresh North Carolina seafood with improved outdoor seating and an expanded beer and wine menu. 111 N. Churton St.; 919-932-0134 Los Altos Serving Mexican dishes, like tacos and chiles rellenos, for breakfast and lunch seven days a week and dinner on weekends. 126 W. King St.; 919-241-4177 Matthew’s Chocolates Gourmet chocolates, frozen treats and baked goods. 104 N. Churton St.; 919-732-0900 Panciuto Southern Italian cuisine. 110 S. Churton St.; 919-732-6261; panciuto.com

On Line Ordering Now Available

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The Triangle's Oldest Brewpub

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Mention this ad & receive 20% off your next visit.

Offer valid for parties up to four people. Alcohol excluded per NC law.

Offer expires 7.1.20

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A modernist approach to Vietnamese food with traditional integrity.

Brunch on weekends

Starters | Wings | Banh Mi | Pho Vermicelli | Pan Fried | Rice Plates 508a West Franklin Street | Chapel Hill

919.942.8201

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PHOHAPPINESS.COM

Radius Wood-fired pizzas, housemade pastas, sandwiches, salads and desserts.

Outdoor dining. 112 N. Churton St.; 919-245-0601; radiuspizzeria.net Saratoga Grill New England-style cuisine. 108 S. Churton St.; 919-732-2214; saratogagrill.com Steve’s Garden Market & Butchery Local meat, produce, baked goods, plus Steve’s brand products like pimento cheese. 610 N. Churton St.; 919-732-4712; stevesgardenmarket.com

Healthy eating for the whole family!

Village Diner Southern breakfast, lunch, brunch and dinner. 600 W. King St.; 919-245-8915 Weaver Street Market Hot bar for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 228 S. Churton St.; 919-245-5050; weaverstreetmarket.coop Whit’s Frozen Custard Ice cream and frozen treats.

240 S. Nash St.; 919-245-8123; whitscustard.com Wooden Nickel Pub Pub fare like wings, sandwiches, tots and rotating drafts and specials. 113 N. Churton St.; 919-643-2223; thewnp.com Yonder: Southern Cocktails & Brew Beer, wine and specialty cocktails. 114 W. King St. CHM

306B West Franklin Street (919) 903-8511 www.purplebowlch.com || purplebowlch

People.Food.Music.

919.391.3706 | PENOGRILL.COM 105 E FRANKLIN ST. | CHAPEL HILL NC 27514 FLAVORFUL IS MEMORABLE! CALL US TO CATER YOUR NEXT EVENT.

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CHAPEL HILL | CARRBORO | HILLSBOROUGH

SPEND A NIGHT ON THE TOWN AT THESE LOCAL

WATERING HOLES MUST-ORDER DRINKS, HOW TO SPOT A REGULAR AND WHO’S BEHIND THE BAR AT FIVE DOWNTOWN SPOTS

by Jessica Stringer | photography by Beth Mann

REFUGE AT THE FRANKLIN culture we have. We have a very global kind of perspective in the communities here between Carrboro and Orange County and Chapel Hill.

Owner Jay Patel Past credentials

Launched and is currently the caretaker of The Franklin Hotel

The soundtrack

Open

We want it to be energetic and just really fun stuff that most people will appreciate. There’s a lot of world music and Latin stuff, African stuff, there’s some indie rock, there might be some bluegrass, there’s a lot of hip-hop, there’s some pop, electro pop.

Until midnight

Crafting cocktails

Year established

2007, renovated spring 2018

Most popular order

The Zombie is always fun. It’s a common drink on tiki menus, and we limit it to two because it’s so strong and potent. And there’s two Champagne drinks that are popular: The Beautiful Stranger and The Forgotten Promise.

The regulars include ...

It’s less about the demographics of the people and more about their mindset. So anybody who feeds off of the intellectual stimulation that is emanating from the university campus [and the] deep progressive 48

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We’re really making a commitment to respecting the craft of the cocktail and making sure everything is well-balanced and measured precisely. We don’t free pour. We have crystal clear large ice cubes that we use for the classic ice drinks.

Tiki to come

We’re going to start having a tiki night about once a week or twice a month. We’ll have really cool punch bowl-type drinks, stuff that’ll be flaming and lighting on fire and stuff that we don’t have on a regular basis. 

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Vanessa Watson and Connolly Walker at Refuge at The Franklin Hotel

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NIGHTLIFE

B E L LT R E E COCKTAIL CLUB Owner Nick Stroud Past credentials Bartending at Jack Sprat Cafe, general manager at Southern Rail, co-owner of The Baxter Year established

2016 Open

Until 2 a.m. Monday through Saturday; Until midnight Sunday Most popular order

Rosemary Collins. It’s gin, StGermain, cucumber, rosemary syrup and tonic.

The regulars include ...

A lot of lawyers, some professors, some doctors, finance people and then we definitely have a nice crowd of grad students.

Zach White behind the bar at Belltree Cocktail Club.

The look

I ended up going to England for a month, and I spent a lot of time checking out old pubs and speakeasies ... and really fell in love with that English-style bar.

When I came back, that’s what I modeled our decor after. My wife and I found hundreds of pieces that adorn the walls and the bar space. And we continue to add, subtract and switch things out.

into more of a signature style. We don’t want to be associated as just a strict speakeasy or a Prohibitionstyle bar. We really want our cocktails to take the center stage. We want to highlight on the new menu that we’re working with local farmers, vendors and producers.

The drinks

We did have the landlord put in awnings and outside lights. We also installed a window. That’s another reason we’re going for a cocktail club now – we don’t want to be secret. We want people to find us and to fall in love with us.

We wanted to go strict, Prohibition-style speakeasy at first, and we did a lot of classic cocktails, true to form. That’s really where we started, and since then we’ve kind of twisted it and morphed the cocktails 50

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Not so secret

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NIGHTLIFE

The decor

BOWBARR Owner Amanda Barr, along with husband John Bowman Past credentials

Amanda was house manager at The ArtsCenter and a bartender at The Flying Burrito and Provence; John was a bartender at Milltown.

Year established

2010 Open

Until 2 a.m.

Most popular order

The Mezcaltini. That’s a big deal for us because mezcal is from Oaxaca and that’s where my mom lives. The Mezcaltini is mezcal, ginger, fresh lime and worm salt on the rim.

The regulars include ...

an artsy crowd. The guys from Midway Barber Shop, tattoo artists from Glenn’s Tattoo Service, Rivers Agency, Carrburritos and Lantern cooks and UNC Art Department.

I graduated from Rhode Island School of Design, and I know how to make things. At the supply store, everything was fabricated for restaurants and we said, “Why spend all this money when we can make it from scratch?” So that’s what we did! Our friend Nora Rogers sewed all the seat cushions, and our friends, who were bartenders here later, painted the ceiling. It’s a classic community effort.

Freshly squeezed

We had been going down [to Mexico] for a long time where there are aguas – watermelon aguas, lemon aguas, orange aguas – that’s basically just juice, water and sugar, that’s it. It tastes so much better than what you get in the store. I applied that to the cocktail making at the bar.

Mixtape

As far as I know, there’s not another bar in the Triangle that does exclusively vinyl. The bartenders are not only bartending, but they are DJing. And we have an association with the Triangle Soul Society, a group of DJs who like soul music. They play on every first Friday and they also play every third Monday, called The Monday Mess-Around. 

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NIGHTLIFE

ORANGE COUNTY SOCIAL CLUB Owner Tricia Mesigian

to have the music curated. Some people come to the bar just to hear new music from what the bartenders play. I’ve learned about so many different bands from being in there on the right night when my colleague is playing a new record.

Past credentials Worked for Merge Records Year established

Eye-popping art [My husband, Charles Chace,] did the main color

2001 Open

Until 2 a.m.

wall when you walk in the door. It’s been there since 2014. It gets a little crinkled, but it still looks cool.

Most popular order

Good to know

Pabst Blue Ribbon or bourbon. Either a shot or on the rocks.

The regulars include ...

a very eclectic group of people. Students, professors, artists, musicians, veterinarians. The Chapel Hill/ Carrboro community is just so great, and we’re a little slice of that.

The soundtrack

There’s a jukebox that has 100 CDs in it. Music is a big deal at OCSC. There are those digital jukeboxes where you can basically pick anything in the world to play; we refuse to get that kind because we do like 52

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The membership thing does throw people off because we really are sticklers about it. It’s a $5 membership fee. You can also come with a member and be their guest. A lot of people aren’t used to that, but once you get past that threshold, just sit down and enjoy it. We play really good music and just let people chill out. It’s really no frills in a lot of ways, but that’s what we sought out to do from the beginning. When you walk in, you know what you’re gonna get.

Number of members

16,280

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NIGHTLIFE

YONDER: SOUTHERN COCKTAILS & BREW Co-owner Eryk Pruitt

them to margaritas. If you have one, you’re having a second.

Past credentials

The regulars include ...

Helped open and run Durham’s blu seafood for five years; managed King Street Bar with his wife, Lana Pierce, before buying the space from owner Tim Lyons in May 2019.

2019

Hillsborough folks coming out for a drink. But if we have a band playing from Chapel Hill, we’ll see a whole bunch of new faces we’ve never seen before.

Those are some of our crazier nights. Our regular locals get to see new bands, and new people come in to follow some of their favorite bands.

Open

Live music

Until midnight Tuesday through Saturday; Until 9 p.m. Sunday

Every Friday and Saturday, we have someone in from 8 to 11 p.m. Katharine Whalen has stopped in several times... Dex Romweber. One of my favorites is Cajammers. We had to move the tables out because everyone wants to dance.

Year established

Most popular order

Seasonal old fashioned. We’ve been doing a ginger old fashioned with ginger simple syrup with the bitters and bourbon. Previous to that, we’ve done it with sage. Also we’ve taken some habaneros that are growing in my yard and have been adding

Good to know

Tuesdays are open mic night, and it’s been crazy popular. CHM

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CHAPEL HILL | CARRBORO | HILLSBOROUGH

BLAST FROM THE PAST SEVEN WAYS TO EXPERIENCE HISTORY DOWNTOWN

O

range County’s history dates back centuries. Hillsborough, the Orange County seat, was founded in 1754 and served as the home of the North Carolina State Legislature and the military base for British General Charles Cornwallis during the Revolutionary War. Chapel Hill grew up around the University that was chartered in 1789 by the North Carolina General Assembly.

Downtown has always been the heart of town-gown relations with several businesses, like The Carolina Inn and Carolina Coffee Shop nearing a century old. And in Carrboro, a town dating back to 1882, its geographic location spurred a railroad, and later on, a steam power grist mill in 1898. Though all three towns have grown up, you can still spot history downtown if you know where to look.

THE BURWELL SCHOOL Learn about Elizabeth Keckley, an enslaved woman who served the family who ran the school for girls. She would go on to become Mary Todd Lincoln’s confidante and the author of a memoir about her years as a slave and working in the White House. Visitors can see the original brick classroom building of Robert and Margaret Anna Burwell and their residence.

ORANGE COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM The museum opened in 1957 and has more than 2,000 artifacts ranging from an 1891 Orange County map to historical photographs. Visit to see new and permanent collections, and during Last Fridays, the museum is open late.

Walk along the streets of all three downtowns and you’ll see markers pointing out notable events and figures from history. From one in Hillsborough honoring Billy Strayhorn, Duke Ellington’s longtime collaborator, to another in Carrboro noting blues musician Elizabeth “Libba” Cotten, you’ll see where history happened and be inspired to learn more. One recent addition on Franklin Street honors the Chapel Hill Nine, a group of African Americans who led a courageous sit-in at Colonial Drug Store.

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PHOTO BY MARK LOSEY/TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL

HISTORICAL MARKERS

The Rev. Albert Williams, James Merritt, David Mason, Jr. and Clyde Douglas Perry, the four surviving members of the Chapel Hill Nine.

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GET OUT ON THE GREENWAYS Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation maintains a system over 16 miles of paved urban greenways and natural surface park trails. Our greenways facilitate unobstructed pedestrian and bicycle travel between neighborhoods and key recreational, employment, and commercial centers.

Pick up our new Chapel Hill bike and greenways map at the Chapel Hill-Orange County Visitors Bureau, the Parks and Recreation Department, or Chapel Hill Town Hall at 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Access trail maps online at

www.townofchapelhill.org/greenways

HISTORY

AUDIO TOUR OF THE NORTHSIDE NEIGHBORHOOD The Marian Cheek Jackson Center’s mission

is to preserve the future of historically black neighborhoods in Chapel Hill, including the Northside community north of Rosemary Street.

With oral history as one of their cornerstones, they’ve put together an audio tour, “Histories of Home: A Walk with Northside Neighbors,” narrated by natives of Northside and meant to be listened to as you’re strolling through the neighborhood. Stream it from your phone, download it, or visit the Jackson Center to borrow a portable player and get a map of the tour.

PHOTO BY MATTHEW NOVIK

REVOLUTIONARY WAR LIVING HISTORY DAY In February each year, the Alliance for Historic Hillsborough hosts a free day of cooking demonstrations, games, storytelling and military reenactments in the town that has plenty of Revolutionary War history.

HORACE WILLIAMS HOUSE

C H A P E L H I L L’ S 2 0 0 T H ANNIVERSARY

The home was built in 1854 by Benjamin Hedrick, a chemistry professor at UNC, and plays host to art exhibitions, concerts and more. Preservation Chapel Hill operates the only historic house open to the public in Chapel Hill.

The Town of Chapel Hill is commemorating its 200th year with a series of events beginning in August and throughout the fall. Don’t miss the chance to learn from its complicated, colorful history and shape its dynamic future together. CHM

DOWNTOWNER My favorite spot for shopping downtown is... Weaver Street for groceries. I can always count on any of the downtown shops for unique and locally made gifts.

My go-to meal downtown is… The Village Diner. The new owners are cooking up some great food. Killer takeout pizzas on the weekend.

I’m looking forward to... The Colonial Inn opening again.

DAVE SWANSON Owner, Swanson Violins

I would describe downtown as… eclectic, booming and always buzzing.

The best part about working downtown is… besides being able to walk to work, it’s so close to Durham/Chapel Hill and central for my customers who live all over the state.

The one thing I’d love to see downtown is… a movie theater, a really, really good bakery and Thai/Vietnamese takeout restaurant.

One hidden gem downtown is… gelato at Matthew’s Chocolates.

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F l o w e r B a r + T i nc tures + To p i c a l s + Va p e s + E dible s + C aps u le s + P e t P rodu ct s

Th e Tr i an g l e ’s 1 s t Tr us te d S o u rce f o r C B D P EA C E • L O V E • H E M P

R A L E I GH

WAK E F OR EST

CHA PEL HI LL

1000 Old Milburn ie Rd. Ste. 1 Raleigh, NC 27604 919-607-7444

1002 Durham Rd. Ste. 1100 Wake Fore st, NC 27587 984-237-0032

115 E. Franklin St. Chapel Hill, NC 27514 919-240-4887

Seni or, Mi l i ta ry & S t u de n t Dis cou n t s

th ehem pstorenc.com • @ t hehem p s t o renc   

HILLSBOROUGH

AN ODE TO HILLSBOROUGH THE DIRECTOR OF THE ORANGE COUNTY ARTS COMMISSION ON ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S COOLEST SMALL TOWNS

PHOTO BY DONN YOUNG

by Katie Murray

O

ne month after I started my job as director of the Orange County Arts Commission in 2016, I agreed to be part of a float in the Hillsborough Handmade Parade. I had no idea what it was, but I heard the word “handmade” and I love a parade, so, of course I agreed. What I discovered was hundreds of people of all types dressed up as enormous, crazy critter puppets parading down Churton Street dancing, laughing, playing and basically having the best time ever. It was weird and 58

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CHAPEL HILL TRANSIT FARE-FREE AND FRIENDLY People who live, work, play and visit Chapel Hill can get around town easily on Chapel Hill Transit, the second largest transit system in North Carolina, which serves Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and the UNC community. To plan your trip or learn more, please visit: bit.ly/2XuvaSB Chapel Hill Transit also provides park and ride service at four lots in different areas of Chapel Hill and Carrboro that provide easy access for customers commuting to the area. For more information, visit bit.ly/2BlfS9X.

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PHOTO BY DONN YOUNG

wonderful. I realized I had found my place.

Hillsborough is weird in the best sense of the word. It’s a compliment meaning unique, authentic, different and something not easily replicated. These words describe Hillsborough, especially downtown, and I’ve often wondered why.

Is it the unique mix of people?

The town is certainly a portrait of a community in transition, featuring an interesting mix of farmers, young families, artists, tattooed hipsters and many, many writers. Or maybe it’s the historic Southern charm. Hillsborough has been called “a museum without walls,” and for good reason. You can’t walk a block downtown without running into a historic site or marker.

I think these things contribute to its unique vibe, but my theory? It’s the overflowing and encouraged creativity 60

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THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

– not just “the arts” in the classic sense, but the wonderful weirdness present everywhere you look. It’s the handmade scarves hanging on a tree in front of the fire station downtown for folks to take if they’re cold. It’s the public art, both official and not so official, along the Riverwalk. There was the “castle made of sticks” by world renowned Hillsborough artist Patrick Dougherty, but there’s also tree stump hobbit houses made by unknown renegade artists. It’s even in the graffiti, which is some of the most positive graffiti that’s ever been graffitied (if that’s a word). Judging by #hillsboroughnc Instagram posts, I share two favorites with many other people: “All things are difficult before they are easy” and “Harder than you think is a beautiful thing.”

The business community is further proof creativity is supported

DOWNTOWNER My favorite event in downtown is... the music festival we do called Hillmatic, a celebration of Chapel Hill’s secretly legendary hip-hop history. Next year will be the fourth annual.

My go-to meal downtown is… Mediterranean Deli, Heavenly Buffaloes and Mellow Mushroom. I support my neighbors.

In three words, I would describe downtown as… a cultural mosaic.

The one thing I’d love to see downtown is… more live music. We’re here for that.

KEVIN “KAZE” THOMAS Co-Owner/ Creative Director, VibeHouse405

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… at any VibeHouse405 music or art event. We have hosted eight independent artists gallery shows in our space and regularly do music events at Local 506 and Cat’s Cradle.

One hidden gem downtown is… Hibachi & Company, for the win.

Carrboro

Keep it local

What makes downtown special is… the people and the hospitality.

Talking to some good local folks will definitely brighten your day.

Voted Favorite Gift Store – Best of Chapel Hill 2019 –

118 East Main Street Carrboro | 919-636-3092 Facebook.com/thisandthatgiftgallery

NOW OFFERING DRY-MOUNTING SERVICES! THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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PHOTO BY DONN YOUNG

COOLEST SMALL TOWN

in Hillsborough. A quick walk down Churton Street proves my point. You’ll see Carlisle & Linny Vintage Jewelry, Hillsborough Yarn Shop, Melissa Designer Jewelry, not to mention six galleries within a three-block radius.

You’ll see artist-designed outdoor seating areas filled with people enjoying seriously creative (and yummy) food at places like Panciuto and The Wooden Nickel.

You’ll find one of only two independently owned bookstores in Orange County, Purple Crow Books, featuring a large section of North Carolina writers, including the many who call this “writer’s haven” home.

The weirdness continues in West Hillsborough, or what my family calls “Steve’s Perfect World,” because it has everything my husband loves: good

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beer and music, dogs, barbecue and ice cream – all in a perfect row. You can get your beer and church at the same time during Beer & Hymns Sundays at Nash Street Tavern, or see local live musicians perform most other nights.

Next door, Paws at the Corner hosts events like “West Fest Dog Beer Floats and Pupcakes.” Next is Whit’s Frozen Custard and then Hillsborough BBQ Company, which are not weird at all. In fact, they offer some of the best ice cream and barbecue money can buy (in our house, we’re tough critics of each). But I digress … back to the weird.

Hillsborough didn’t become an artsy community by chance. Support for the creators, or the people who make a community an enjoyable place to live, doesn’t just happen. Especially with the

DOWNTOWNER My favorite event in downtown is... Northside’s Neighborhood Night Out in September.

My favorite spot for shopping downtown is… Julian’s.

My go-to meal downtown is… Vimala’s Curryblossom Café.

I’m looking forward to… walking downtown for exercise.

I would describe downtown as… a quaint place to be.

DELORES BAILEY

The best part about working downtown is… free buses and I can walk to wherever I want to go.

Executive Director, EmPOWERment

The one thing I’d love to see downtown is… children playing.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… CURRENT, UNC’s new artistic space near Target. I have been there several times.

What makes Carrboro’s downtown special is… it seems like everyone is nice and having fun, no matter what time of day.

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PHOTO BY BETH MANN

COOLEST SMALL TOWN

Stay in the Know!

Join the

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rapid growth we’re experiencing in the Triangle, it’s tempting for community leaders to sacrifice local character and sell to the highest bidder. But it is somehow different here. The mayor, Tom Stevens, is an accomplished artist and owner of a downtown gallery. The town’s public space manager, Stephanie Trueblood, earned her undergraduate degree in public art and her desire to keep Hillsborough authentic and beautiful is demonstrated in every aspect of her work. The town council and local boards also get it. Each year they contribute significant public funds to support the work of the Hillsborough Arts Council.

Without the arts council, the community wouldn’t enjoy some

For your next adventure in town, across the country, or around the world

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DOWNTOWNER My favorite event in downtown is... Night Lights: A Family New Year’s Eve at Morehead.

My go-to meal downtown is… boneless wings at Four Corners.

I’m looking forward to... opening a reimagined Morehead Planetarium and Science Center in downtown.

I would describe downtown as… vibrant and diverse.

The best part about working downtown is… the energy level, especially during the academic year.

TODD BOYETTE Director, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… Ackland Art Museum.

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is… a show at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center.

One hidden gem downtown is... The Dead Mule Club.

What makes Chapel Hill’s downtown special is… the students.

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INSPIRING CREATIVITY AND CELEBRATING COMMUNITY FOR A BETTER CHAPEL HILL. Near & Far. Colorful Crosswalks. Festifall. Pop Up Art Galleries. Movies Under the Stars.

Through public art, arts programming, and festivals and special events, the Town of Chapel Hill’s Division of Community Arts & Culture makes Chapel Hill better by inspiring creativity and celebrating community. We love being a partner in making downtown Chapel Hill a fun, funky, and all-around more artsy place. Keep an eye out for new art installations and community celebrations – and please get in touch if you have an idea you’d like to share.

TOWNOFCHAPELHILL.ORG THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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PHOTO BY TOREY MISHOE

COOLEST SMALL TOWN

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of the most original, not to mention wildly successful, events this former festival planner has ever had the privilege of being a part of, including the Handmade Parade, Last Fridays Art Walk and the magical Solstice Lantern Walk each December.

Indeed, this is a magical little town.

As a self-identified weirdo, I feel fortunate to have stumbled into this job in this community. I love it so much I almost hesitate telling people about it because I’m afraid the secret will get out. But I think it’s too late … creativity is contagious and in this expanding metropolis of clear-cut forests and fabricated communities, people are desperate for something that is different, unique and true.

So here’s to Hillsborough, the writer’s haven, the museum without walls … may it stay forever weird. CHM

DOWNTOWNER My favorite spot for shopping downtown is... Julian’s.

My go-to meal downtown is… the eggplant curry at Vimala’s Curryblossom Café.

Something I’m looking forward to downtown is... more pop-up art installations.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… CURRENT ArtSpace + Studio.

EMIL KANG Executive and Artistic Director of Carolina Performing Arts, and Special Assistant to the Chancellor for the Arts, UNC

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is… Ackland Art Museum.

One hidden gem downtown is… Back Bar at TOPO! What makes downtown special is… the growth of locally owned businesses.

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AT HOME ONE CARRBORO NATIVE ON GROWING UP – AND MOVING BACK TO – DOWNTOWN photo by Beth Mann

L

orie Clark grew up in Carrboro, and

along with her siblings, walked everywhere.

College and her career took her out of state for two decades, but she returned to Carrboro in 1998 to work with Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation, The Sonja Haynes Stone Center and currently Blue Ribbon MentorAdvocate (BRMA). She now lives in a family home on land that’s been in her family for seven generations.

Tell us about your family’s history in Carrboro.

What do you remember about growing up downtown?

I don’t really remember Carr Mill functioning. I just remember that it just used to be a rundown mill. I went to Carrboro Elementary School, I went to Grey Culbreth Middle School, I graduated from Chapel Hill High School. I’ve seen the transformation of Carrboro. The Century Center used to be a church – it was a white church. Where Tyler’s is used to be a grocery store; where Jade Palace is used to be a clothing store. Over the years, we’ve seen the change.

My great-great-grandparents – Toney and Nellie Strayhorn WE GO TO OPEN EYE CAFE. WE GO TO – were slaves. Once they received HONEYSUCKLE CAFE. I GO TO O2 FITNESS, their freedom, they purchased 30 BUT THAT USED TO BE THE A&P STORE. acres of land in Carrboro – from I REMEMBER WHEN IT WAS A GROCERY STORE. the PTA Thrift Store all the way to almost across from OWASA in back. They ended up building a one-room log cabin. [They] were farmers, and they What was your favorite part of growing up did a lot of trading in Carrboro at the mill. Then my where you did? great-grandmother actually built a house a few yards I have loved living in an area where it’s centrally from what we call now the home place. And there she located. I walked to school. If I can share just a raised her family. little bit about race – I felt like I grew up in an integrated community, however, it was interesting, Do any relatives still live on the family and I don’t think for any particular reason at all, land? but most of the blacks lived on my side of the street My mom still owns the house next door. I still own and then the neighborhood surrounding and the my house and the lot behind me, which I’m planning white people lived in between, too. But then white to give to my youngest son. people lived across the street. But I always felt like

“

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Longtime Carrboro resident Lorie Clark in her family home under photos of her great-great-grandparents Toney and Nellie Strayhorn.

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LIVING DOWNTOWN

I grew up in a community that was integrated.

What was it like moving back to town with your young sons?

We moved back home when they were in elementary school. So they had a very similar experience to my experience. They would walk to Carrboro Elementary, they would ride their bikes. And at the time my grandmother was living. I was so grateful because they were able to get the wisdom and the love of their greatgrandmother.

What are some of your favorite spots to walk to from your house?

Oh, I love Weaver Street. I love Carr Mill Mall. I am literally steps away from the farmers market. I love everything about where I’m centrally located.

My family patronized Cliff’s Meat Market when I was little and continue to do so today.

In one direction, I can walk for groceries at Harris Teeter and in the other, to Food Lion. I love going to the farmers market on Wednesday and Saturday, and I love all of the restaurants that are currently located in Carrboro. I eat at Elmo’s a lot, I eat at Carrburritos. I call on the phone and they’re like, “Hi Miss Lorie, is it the same order?” Just being able to walk to those places and live in a community that is committed to good food and clean air I really appreciate. CHM 74

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“ “

I come from Washington, D.C., where I was able to walk a lot, which I loved.

Living in downtown Chapel Hill allows me that same freedom to walk to a whole range of places, most importantly my job at the Ackland Art Museum, but also to restaurants and shopping. The Dead Mule and The Crunkleton are two of my favorite places to relax with a glass of wine.

Lantern and Kipos are two of my favorite restaurants.”

–Katie Ziglar, who lives within walking distance of her job as director of the Ackland Art Museum

Our family loves the vibrancy and convenience of living downtown. I work at UNC and ride my bike in while Alex has his home and office in Midway Business Center near to central Chapel Hill/ Carrboro projects that he completes with his build and design business, Argyle Building Company. Our 2.5-year-old knows that his red wagon is the preferred method of travel, whether it’s to The Carolina Inn on Friday evening for Fridays on the Front Porch, the Carrboro Farmers Market on Saturday morning to pick up fresh produce or to a neighbor’s house for a play date. Being able to hear football games from our backyard and celebrate with students from our porch when we win a basketball championship makes us feel part of the town and the community, which provides so much positive energy.”

–Kate Sayre, who lives off of West Franklin Street with her husband Alex, a Chapel Hill native, and two sons.

THE DOWNTOWNER 2019

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CHAPEL HILL | CARRBORO | HILLSBOROUGH

FAMILY FUN GO-TO DOWNTOWN SPOTS FOR LOCAL FAMILIES photography by Beth Mann

“

The Brown brothers enjoy going downtown often, and each have their own favorite experiences. My 14-year-old son, Jake, likes to start at Sutton’s with a vintage soda and a look at all the UNC sports photos and memorabilia and the walls. Then we progress down the street and stop in UNC merch shops from The Shrunken Head to Underground Printing to Chapel Hill Sportswear, because one can’t have too many UNC T-shirts. Then we end up way

at the other end of Franklin Street with a slice at Italian Pizzeria III (IP3), where he likes to look at all the UNC sports photos and memorabilia. Can you sense a theme here?

My 11-year-old son, Miller, is a West Franklin kind of guy. He likes to say hi to the kitties at Cat Tales Cat Cafe, grab a Cheerwine and a burger at Al’s Burger Shack, stop and pet a few dogs outside Beer Study, and then blow through a roll of quarters (or more) at The Baxter. He’s particularly fond of the Star Wars game there. I prefer to hop on Ms. Pac-Man myself.”

–Susan Brown

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LEFT AND BELOW Children listen to instructor Allison Tierney talk about pictographs at the monthly Art Adventures at the Ackland Art Museum.

M O N T H LY C L A S S E S A T T H E A C K L A N D G I V E KIDS AN OUTLET FOR CREATIVITY

I

t was a rainy Saturday afternoon, but inside the Ackland Art Museum, instructor Allison Tierney was gesturing at a few works hanging on a bold red wall. Her audience of eight kids sat on the carpet, listening with rapt attention. Allison kept them engaged as she discussed pictographs, asking a question every so often – “What is abstract art? How does yellow make you feel?” She talked about the background of the artists and their lives and deaths. That last point made a hand go up in the air: “What is death?” one of the kids asked.

That honesty is why one parent enjoys the classes geared for 6- to 9-year-olds. “I like that Allison describes a lot of things, and she talks about all of the emotions of the artist,” says Nina Browner.

“It’s not just a fluffy class that talks about butterflies. She makes sure that you see the sadness that created the art.”

After Allison’s lesson in the gallery, the group snakes through the hallways to a studio in the Hanes Art Center. The kids lead the way. Many come every month.

“We’ve been six times already,” says Nina.

As the teacher of the monthly Art Adventures class for the past three years, Allison has worked with the kids to do projects from beading and bookmaking to mosaics and collages. “One of my goals is to try and bring in as many new materials and ways of making art to the classes as I can, so we are never doing the same activity twice,” Allison says. “We spent this past summer inspired by self-portraiture and did some full body drawings, clay face sculptures and learned the proportions of the face.”

Today, Allison and her team go over the instructions for monoprinting, explaining that

they’ve only got one opportunity to make a print per original drawing. The kids jump right in, each covering a large tile with paint and using a cotton swab to draw. It’s a learning process, and the kids discover that simple prints come out better than intricate drawings.

By the end of the class, there are peace signs and cityscapes, forests and flowers drying on the table.

When asked about her favorite class now that she’s

been to six, Sophia Browner, 6, replies: “This one.

I like painting.”

Allison agrees with that assessment. “Play and experimentation are incredibly important in artmaking and therefore play a large role in how I teach, and I saw a lot of that going in this past class,” Allison says. “The kids always amaze me at how knowledgeable they are about art and how in tune they are with their feelings and observations about the work they are looking at.” –Jessica Stringer

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FAMILY FUN

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Rose, 17, Iris, 21, and I love to go

to our downtown events or visit the Ackland Art Museum when they are in town. We then go restauranthopping down Franklin Street to catch all the great tastes they missed while away from home.”

“

–Hongbin Gu

I love picking my teenage son up from Carolina’s football camp or the Roy Williams Carolina Basketball Camp and going downtown to enjoy

a special snack before heading home.”

–Rhonda Hubbard Beatty

Over the years, I have really enjoyed introducing my kids, Aja, 21, and Kai, 18, to some of my favorite downtown Chapel Hill hot spots like Sutton’s, The Varsity Theatre and TimeOut that I frequented as a kid. And now that they are older, I have been introduced to some of their favorites as well, like Hops Burger Bar, The Baxter and our Sunday go-to, TOPO. Nothing more fun than strolling the sidewalks of Franklin Street!”

–Eric White

Spending loads of time at to the woods salon on North Graham Street, my girls, Iggy, 11, and Georgie, 8, love to go to The Baxter and play games and then have a bite at Al’s Burger Shack. We especially love hanging out during basketball season when we can head to Alumni Hall for Tar Heels gear! Graham Street is such a cool little street for hanging out pre-game. The girls love checking out the cool accessories from Rumors where they get their fill of fun things even they can afford! In downtown Chapel Hill, it’s always a #GDTBATH!” –Jaime Phillips

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We find a variety of things to do as a family on any given weekend in Hillsborough. Our daughters, Nylah and Halyn, love going to the Eno River Farmers Market on Saturday, and after that, they are excited to walk to Purple Crow Books to play with the interesting toys they have there and pick out new books. As we approach lunchtime, Lindsay, my wife, loves barbecue so we go to Hillsborough BBQ Company, which makes everyone happy, and it gives the girls incentive to eat well because they know that Whit’s Frozen Custard is next door and they have the opportunity to get a sweet treat before their nap. During the week, Nylah and Halyn love going to the library in Hillsborough for storytime as they do an amazing job making reading fun and exciting for the girls.”

–Ulrick Edmonds

One of our favorite Sunday activities is to take our dog onto UNC’s campus and park by the Forest Theatre. The girls – Gabi, 17, Amelia, 14, Laurel Ann, 11, and Stella, 9 – like to sing on the stage or run the steps, and then we make our way down to Franklin Street where we sit outside at Sup Dogs and enjoy a burger. Our dog always makes friends, and we have a relaxing time as a whole family before the busy week begins.”

–Rachel Ruvo

My husband, Brockton, and I love to take our teenage daughter, May, to The Baxter to play video games during their kid-friendly hours.”

–Holly McKinney CHM

DOWNTOWNER My favorite event in downtown is... Movies Under the Stars.

My favorite spot for shopping downtown is... Carr Mill Mall.

My go-to meal downtown is… the chicken salad pita with a falafel salad at Mediterranean Deli.

Something I’m looking forward to downtown is... Latinx Pride in Carrboro on June 15.

VICKY CRUZ Community Specialist, El Centro Hispano

I would describe downtown as... inclusive, dream-come-true and cultured.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is... The ArtsCenter.

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is... the beauty of UNC’s campus.

What makes downtown so special is... the diversity.

My favorite event in downtown is… a national championship when we WIN! UNC born and UNC bred!

My favorite spot for shopping downtown is... Gentlemen’s Corner or Julian’s.

My go-to meal downtown is… Al’s Burger Shack.

I would describe downtown as… high school stomping grounds!

The one thing I’d love to see downtown is… a new Rathskeller.

The best place to soak up a little culture downtown is… soon-tobe 401 Main in Carrboro.

CHRIS BALDWIN Co-owner, 401 Main

The one thing I’d tell a visitor not to miss downtown is… a burger at Al’s and a pizza at IP3.

One hidden gem downtown is… The Crunkleton and being able to people-watch when the big window is open.

What makes downtown special is… the people and the low-key vibe of the town.

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CHAPEL HILL | CARRBORO | HILLSBOROUGH

FOUR SEASONS SLICES OF DOWNTOWN LIVING FROM LOCAL INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS

“Helen’s Garden at the Visitors Center is in full bloom.

It’s a beautiful place to catch a shady spot on a hot day like this. #visithillsboroughnc” Visit Hillsborough NC, @hillsboroughnc

“‘Summer in a cup’ As my friend the fabulous author @landsakes @beyond_the_novel calls it Photo: @bruna.spremberg” Shaka Shave Ice, @iheartshaka

“Fall weather did not show up to the party today, but the fun still went on. #fall #streetfestival #festifall #franklinst #chapelhill #localartists” Brooke Archambault, @nchomesbybrooke

“Because of the snow and likely freezing rain later today, the market is officially closed for the day.

Everyone stay safe out there & enjoy your snow day!”

Blue Dogwood Public Market, @bluedogwoodch

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