April Dudash is a former newspaper reporter who loves sharing Durham’s stories. By day, she leads operations for Mettlesome Theater and works in community engagement at the Durham Performing Arts Center. She teaches and performs improv comedy and holds a master of business administration from Elon University. She lives in north Durham with her husband, Charles Givens, and their pup, Sammy
Cornell Watson is a photographer based in Durham. He frequently contributes to national publications such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal as well as NPR, and he has photographed national advertising campaigns for companies such as T-Mobile, MeUndies, Bombas and Adidas. His photography centers Black stories and has been featured in Time magazine and exhibited in museums such as The Mint Museum, the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University and the National Civil Rights Museum. When he’s not watching the 1,000th episode of “Cocomelon,” being the best spouse in the world or editing photos while his two kids edit the furniture with nonwashable crayons, you can find him passed out from exhaustion on the living room couch.
Lucinda Poole lucinda.poole@trianglemediapartners.com
Abigail Celoria is a writer-of-alltrades with a passion for stories that connect people and community. She holds a bachelor’s in creative writing from UNC Wilmington, along with a certificate in publishing and a minor in journalism. When she’s not writing for Triangle Media Partners and other outlets, she can be found reading, drinking coffee and eating her way around town.
Alex Boerner grew up in a dive bar in Minnetonka, Minnesota, which was owned by his father and a partner. In the beginning, his mom worked there as a bouncer, and Alex had a bunch of jobs including janitor, dishwasher, busser, host and a short-lived stint waiting tables.
Hannah Lee works in corporate marketing at CBRE, but previously served in several editor roles at Shannon Media (now Triangle Media Partners). A graduate of UNC, Hannah loves running and exploring new restaurants in Durham, where she resides with her husband, Brendan Marks, and their dog, Kona
He spent 16 years as a photojournalist, digging into the world around him while working for news organizations in Iowa, Florida and North Carolina. He now creates portraiture and lifestyle photography for a variety of editorial and commercial clients while paying special attention to people and their spirits.
He lives in Durham with his wife, Kallyn Boerner (a former photojournalist turned doula and documentary family photographer), their dogs, Mazzy and Kip, 10 chickens and a bunch of outdoor neighborhood cats that he tries to befriend.
2 | durhammag.com | june/july 2025
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Durham Magazine is published six times a year by Triangle Media Partners, founded in 2006 by Dan and Ellen Shannon. Subscriptions, $38 for two years, are available at durhammag.com To purchase copies, call 919.933.1551.
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june/july 2025
28 BEST OF DURHAM
32 Next-Level Newcomers
We asked the folks behind Durham’s hottest new restaurants what makes each one stand out
38 Pour Quality
What makes a truly exceptional wine list? Uncork the secrets behind the best selections in town, from expert pairings to rare vintages that keep wine lovers coming back for more.
44 Noodle on This
Get your noodles, spice and everything nice at these flavor-packed spots serving Durham’s most mouthwatering Asian and Italian cuisine
50 Stay Awhile
A downtown landmark marks 10 years while evolving to better meet the Bull City’s needs
56 Recipe for Success
Matt Kelly’s award as one of the best chefs in Durham isn’t his alone
60 Discover the DIY District
This vibrant pocket is brimming with Best of Durham award winners
66 Starting Strong
Inside our readers’ fave new Bull City businesses
76 Style of the Season
Durham’s most fashionable shops showcase signature summer styles
80 Shine On
Celebrate local brilliance with dazzling pieces –trendy paperclip chain necklaces to sculptural rings – from this year’s best jewelry stores
84 A Cut Above
Ego Barber Lounge earns the title as one of Durham’s best hair salons by turning everyday haircuts into moments of connection, growth and community
88 Road Trip Ready
Expert advice from Durham’s top auto pros for a smooth summer on the road
94 Perfect Patios
A look at inspired outdoor living projects from several of Durham’s top home and garden experts
108 More Than a Museum
Inside the award-winning historic hub where Pauli Murray’s spirit still guides the fight for justice
114 Art After Dark Durham’s nightlife, in focus
124 Best of Durham 2025 Award Winners
140 A New Chapter
This year’s Best of Durham Social Impact Award goes to Book Harvest
FEATURES
20 Summer Reset
Advice on caring for your bodies and minds this season
144 Purrfect Passenger
A cyclist and his shoulder-riding cat redefine how to explore the Triangle –one ride (and brewery) at a time
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
8 Letter from the Editor
10 Go.See.Do.
Our top picks for a sensational summer
18 News Bites
Now serving: the latest Bull City restaurant news
160 Wedding Cross & Kerr
PEOPLE & PLACES
148 Kidznotes’ Pitch Perfect Evening Gala
150 Weird Productions’ The Salon Durham
152 Durham Art Guild’s Swing Into Spring
153 Kidzu Children’s Museum’s The Makery Grand Opening
154 Full Frame Documentary Film Festival
156 The Junior League of Durham and Orange Counties’ Community Leaders Breakfast
158 The Durham (NC) Chapter of The Links Inc.’s Shades of Green Fashion Show
In Good Company
The past month has taken me on trips from the Midwest to the coast – officiating my best friend’s wedding in Rochelle, Illinois (congrats to Stephanie Moore and Marc Moore!) then spending a bit of time in the Windy City; celebrating a law school graduation and birthday of a dear friend in Alexandria, Virginia, while also soaking up time with my cousin and her two boys; and capping it all off with a birthday beach week at Carolina Beach with my partner, Evan, and awesome neighbors (shouts to the crew: Harvey Thomas, Ellie Brain and Sarah Brain!). Each stop was memorable, not just because of the places, but because of the people – being surrounded by loved ones is what makes any trip worthwhile. And yet, no matter where I go, I’m always glad to come back to Durham. The Bull City continues to captivate me – with its energy, creativity and the deep sense of community that pulses through every neighborhood and small business. Each year for the past 15 years, we’ve invited our readers to celebrate that spirit by voting in our Best of Durham poll. It’s become one of our favorite traditions – a chance to recognize the people and places that make this city feel like home. From the chefs who plate bold, unforgettable meals to the local makers, stylists, designers, artists and business owners who pour heart and hustle into their craft – this issue is a celebration of them all – a true love letter to the local gems you’ve lifted up.
While the list of award winners is impressive – find them all beginning on page 124 – it’s the people behind these businesses that make it all meaningful. Whether you’re grabbing a pastry at your favorite corner café, trusting a local vet with your pup or seeking out a new yoga studio, these choices reflect not only quality, but connection. Durham continues to grow and change, but what remains constant is the spirit of support and recognition our readers bring to this annual issue. We’re grateful to help tell these stories.
See one of your favorites on these pages? Send them a note or a positive review. Stop by their business. Share the love. There’s a lot to be proud of here – and a lot to explore, right in your own backyard.
amanda.maclaren@durhammag.com
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THE COVER
Pop Star Rising This custom-designed, handmade poptart from Little Barb’s Bakery – named one of our readers’ favorite spots for desserts and pastries – steals the spotlight with its buttery crust, nostalgic charm and just-sweet-enough filling. Photo by John Michael Simpson
READ ALL ABOUT IT
Flip through The Triangle Weekender, our newest guide to all there is to do, see, eat and explore in the Triangle.
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We post the latest Durham news, events, giveaways and more on Instagram!
MAKE PLANS
Head to our Triangle-wide event calendar for the top events in Durham and beyond.
Music Near the Gardens
JUNE 4, 11, 18 & 25
Gather your friends and family on Duke University’s East Campus for a special edition of the long-running summer concert series Music in the Gardens while Sarah P. Duke Gardens undergoes renovations. Local artists perform during this free Duke Arts Presents and The Pinhook collaboration that celebrates the latter venue’s legacy as a nurturing space for the city’s creative community and a champion for marginalized voices for more than 15 years. Pinhook owner Kym Register curates the season, and artist and performer Stormie Daie hosts. Each night features two live acts, followed by a free after-party concert at The Pinhook.
presents this free music series at parks throughout the Bull City. Attendees can bring their own food or choose from a rotating lineup of local vendors on-site. Grab a blanket or lawn chair, and head to some of the city’s beautiful outdoor spaces – Forest Hills Park on June 14, Duke Park on July 12 and Piney Wood Park on Aug. 9 – to catch emerging local artists with genre-defining talents.
do see go
‘Some Like It Hot’
JUNE 17-22
Grab your tickets to the most award-winning musical of the season at the Durham Performing Arts Center, featuring a captivating story of two musicians fleeing across the country from Chicago during the Prohibition era. Delight in this Tony Awardwinning combination of heart, laughs, song and dance that entertainment website Deadline calls “a tap-dancing, razzle-dazzling embrace of everything you love about musical theater.”
OUR TOP PICKS FOR A SENSATIONAL SUMMER
Compiled by Emily Gessner
Kindred Spirits: A Convergence of African American Quilters
JUNE 19-21
The Durham Convention Center plays host to African American quilters, artists and guests for a weekend of workshops and networking honoring Juneteenth, sisterhood and creative expression. All are welcome to pore over rich, storied fabrics at the pop-up quilt exhibition and reception “Space and Time: Quilting Afrofuturism” on Friday, June 20, from 6-9 p.m. This weekend of cloth, needle and thread invites attendees to stitch new futures and honor their roots.
Unbox the Unexpected
Boxyard RTP is where the Triangle comes alive. Tucked into the west side of Hub RTP—Research Triangle Park’s vibrant 100acre downtown district—this community of 40 repurposed shipping containers is anything but ordinary. With weekly events, live music and a lineup of local legends in food, drink and retail, it’s a destination for culture, connection and everything that gives the Triangle its spark.
Come for the vibe, stay for the flavor. Make your next meetup, night out or lunch break something worth talking about.
Nate Smith Trio
JUNE 27-28
Missy Lane’s Assembly Room presents two evenings of high-level musical conversation and groove-driven improvisation from a group that delivers raw emotion, masterful technique and serious stage chemistry. The Nate Smith Trio, featuring Charlie Hunter and Ciara Moser, produces a genre-bending combination of dynamic, soul-charged percussion, guitar virtuosity and lyrical bass that will have you tapping your foot, nodding your head and leaving inspired.
Children’s Independence Day Parade
JULY 4
Bring the whole family down to Durham Central Park for this Fourth of July celebration! Decorate your bike, tricycle, wagon or stroller with ribbons, trinkets and other fun items from The Scrap Exchange, then parade through the park to tunes from DJ Piddipat. Cool off and recharge afterward with hot dogs and brews from The Glass Jug Beer Lab, plus free popsicles and fire truck tours.
Family Farm Animal Day
JUNE 28
Duke Homestead invites adults and kids alike to meet critters of all shapes and sizes stationed across the state historic site. Learn about the historical and current importance of animals, pollinators, birds and reptiles with demonstrations, handson activities, crafts and more. Furry, scaled and feathered friends from local farms and organizations await!
W. Kamau Bell
JULY 12
The Carolina Theatre welcomes the acclaimed comedian to the Fletcher Hall stage, bringing a fresh mix of big questions, sharp observations and a heavy dose of silliness in his standup routine. Kamau believes the only way through life in these hectic times is together – so he’s asking, “Who’s with me?”
2025 American Dance FestivaL
We invite you to gather your friends and family to experience a spectacular season of dance! June 12–July 26
Tickets On Sale April 29
Pilobolus
Photo by Jason Hudson
AMAZING
ON VIEW THROUGH AUGUST 31, 2025
Radical Clay: Contemporary Women Artists from Japan is organized by the Art Institute of Chicago.
TOGETHER
Cannupa Hanska Luger, Wealth 2023. Ceramic, synthetic hair, ammunition can, steel, and artificial sinew. 24 x 14 x 12 inches (61 x 35.6 x 30.5 cm). Private collection. Courtesy of the artist and Garth Greennan Gallery, New York.
Photo by Wendy McEarhern.
Cannupa Hanska Luger: Speechless is organized by the Nevada Museum of Art in Reno. Sponsors: Anonymous; Roswitha Kima Smale, PhD Supporting Sponsors: Maureen Mullarkey and Steve Miller
Additional Support: Garth Greenan Gallery, New York
At the Nasher Museum, this exhibition is made possible by The Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family Fund for Exhibitions; the A. Courtney Shives Endowment Fund; the Sunny Rosenberg Endowment Fund; the J. Horst and Ruth Mary Meyer Fund; the Prakash and Anjali Melwani Fund; and the Wallace Fowlie Endowment Fund.
BEST IN FEST
Our readers voted, and these summer festivals earned their spots at the top of our annual Best of Durham awards:
BEST OF DURHAM
AMERICAN DANCE FESTIVAL
JUNE 12 – JULY 26
One of the largest and most influential modern dance festivals in the world marks its 92nd annual season, featuring 22 acclaimed choreographers and dance companies taking part in 40 performances across Durham, including 10 world premieres, 13 ADF commissions and 11 ADF debuts. This season spotlights the iconic choreography of Trisha Brown, Merce Cunningham and Paul Taylor, united in a powerful program honoring their collaborations with visual artist Robert Rauschenberg. “Expect joyful and athletic performances that celebrate the resilience of the human spirit, with pieces exploring darker themes that are as thought-provoking as they are uplifting and moving,” says ADF Executive Director Jodee Nimerichter. “From immersive experiences and multimedia productions to unconventional stagecraft and even joyous dance parties, we invite the community to celebrate alongside the artists. And, of course, we’ll highlight the brilliant ADF alumni who continue to shape the now and future of dance.”
46TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL FOR THE ENO
JULY 4-5
One of the region’s premier Fourth of July celebrations includes music from more than 60 artists on four stages, a craft show, local foods and a beer garden – all on the banks of the Eno River at West Point on the Eno city park. Proceeds benefit the Eno River Association’s efforts to preserve this beautiful area’s natural, cultural and historic resources.
(Photo credits, clockwise from top left)
Page 10 Music Near the Gardens photo by Evan Benally Atwood; ‘Some Like It Hot’ photo by Matthew Murphy; A Convergence of African American Quilters photo By T. Hunter; Concerts in the Park photo by Kyesha Jennings Page 12 Nate
Smith Trio photo by Tyler Scheerschmidt; Children’s Independence Day Parade photo courtesy of Durham Central Park; W. Kamau Bell photo by Aundre Larrow; Family Farm Animal Day photo courtesy of Duke Homestead State Historic Site
Page 16 46th Annual Festival for the Eno photo by Dave Burbank; American Dance Festival photo by Richard Termine
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Now serving:
the latest Bull City restaurant news
COMPILED BY ALEXANDRA BORDA AND
SHARON KINSELLA
• Fizzwerks opened March 27 at 618 Ramseur St., Ste. 103, introducing a breezy rooftop escape designed as a welcoming “third space” for gathering, relaxing and reconnecting. The taproom pours house-brewed craft seltzers, cocktails, beer and zero-proof options, paired with light, seasonal fare that leans into fresh, veggie-forward ingredients. With skyline views and an easygoing vibe, it’s a fresh addition to the city’s social scene – perfect for catching up with friends or sparking new conversations.
• Big Apple flavor is headed to Horseshoe at Hub RTP Di Fara Pizza – a Brooklyn-born pizzeria often named the best pizza in New York by the likes of New York Magazine, Serious Eats and even Anthony Bourdain – is opening its second Triangle location in late 2025. The nearly 4,000-square-foot space includes: 145 seats inside and out, including a massive patio with 90 seats; a private dining room; and a walkup window for Italian ice, imported gelato and drinks! This beloved brand driven by the legacy of Dominic DeMarco (who opened the OG Brooklyn spot in 1965) brings its classic handcrafted round and square pies, pizza by the slice, calzones, meatballs, cannoli, rainbow cookies and more to RTP.
• The owners of Mirchi’s Indian Kitchen and Bar in Cary took over the former Indian Monsoon space at 105 W. Morgan St., Ste. 100, relaunching it as Barsa – a name that means “rain” in several Indian languages – in March. The new concept blends traditional flavors with modern flair, offering street food–inspired bites and refined, chefdriven dishes in a sleek, inviting space that channels the freshness and renewal of the monsoon season.
• Big news is brewing downtown! Triangle-based coffee trailer Narrative Coffee Company is slated to open its first brick-and-mortar shop at 300 Morris St. in the heart of the Durham Innovation District in June. The new space promises the same cozy, community-first vibe fans have come to love – but now with a permanent home.
• La Buena Vida opened its third location April 28 at 4416 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd. Known for its housemade tortillas, birria tacos, fresh ceviches and creative cocktails, the restaurant continues its mission to unite people over great food, drinks and the spirit of “the good life.”
• Bookworms and coffee lovers, rejoice! Daughters Coffee and Books celebrated its grand opening April 12 at 5410 NC Hwy. 55, Ste. AF. This cozy spot offers a welcoming retreat where guests can settle into a comfortable chair with a handcrafted drink and explore a thoughtfully curated selection of books in a space that’s perfect for quiet work or friendly conversation.
• Executive chef Oscar Diaz and Mezcalito Group opened TaTaco – an airy, vibrant eatery that channels the energy of a traditional Mexican mercado – at 620 Foster St. The restaurant draws from Oscar’s heritage and summers in Jalisco, blending ancestral culinary techniques with a playful, immersive atmosphere, featuring an open kitchen, raw bar and a menu full of fresh, locally sourced seafood and creative shared plates.
• New downtown restaurant and bar The Lenny opened its doors April 9. Perched on the 11th floor of 555 S. Mangum St., this rooftop gem founded by brothers Joel Ibarra and Charlie Ibarra offers brasserie-style dishes, bold craft cocktails and 180-degree panoramic views of downtown and the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. It’s quickly becoming the spot for front-row seats to Durham Bulls’ Friday night fireworks and post-game hangs as well as dinner-beforethe-show at Durham Performing Arts Center or happy hour drinks for workers at American Tobacco Campus
• Lutra Cafe and Bakery, known for its wildly popular sweet and savory buns, will open a permanent counter-service location at American Tobacco Campus by the end of 2025. Founded by chef Chris McLaurin in early 2024, the bakery gained a loyal following through pop-ups, markets and coffee shop collaborations. The new 2,600-square-foot space at 312 Blackwell St., Noell Building, Ste. 102, will serve breakfast, lunch and baked goods, offering indoor and patio seating just steps from Ment Beverage Co. on the north side of campus.
• Del Taco, as of press time, was slated to make its North Carolina debut in May at 4716 Apex Hwy The California-based fast-casual chain known for its blend of Mexican favorites and American classics like crispy tacos, loaded fries and burgers, all under one roof, has built a loyal following across the country. Plans are already underway for a second location in Sanford and three more to follow.
• La Taqueria by Katsuji opened April 22 in Boxyard RTP, serving bold, Mexico City-style tacos in a vibrant, fast-casual setting. Created by “Top Chef” alum Katsuji Tanabe and Raleigh restaurateur Anthony Rapillo, the eatery focuses on simple, flavor-packed street food and a laid-back atmosphere. “I grew up eating these tacos on the streets of Mexico City, so this is personal for me,” Katsuji says.
• KoKyu expanded its restaurant at 245 E. Hwy 54, Ste. 105, in April with a 6,000-square-foot open-air deck perched 25 feet above the protected Crooked Creek watershed. Outfitted with antique furniture from Nomadic Trading Co., the front deck offers cozy character, while the modern back deck features a catering kitchen, laser projector and large outdoor screen for events. A new 40-seat dining room next door highlights local artwork, adding to the eclectic atmosphere. KoKyu continues to serve globally inspired barbecue, tacos, sandwiches and burgers made with fresh, local ingredients.
PHOTO BY STACEY SPRENZ
PHOTO BY LAUREN VIED ALLEN
Stay Cool At
Coffee dates, ice cream breaks, drinks with friends –15 places to eat, drink, and chill out this summer. Your BEST summer day starts at American Tobacco Campus.
SUMMER RESET
BY TAYLOR MOTLEY
PHOTOGRAPHY AT YOGA OFF EAST
BY ANNA ROUTH BARZIN
The promise of warmer weather, longer days and the glow of the sun create a perfect opportunity to reflect and find a new balance in life. We’ve turned to some of Durham’s most trusted wellness professionals –winners from this year’s Best of Durham poll – for their advice on caring for your bodies and minds this season. Take a deep breath, and let’s dive in:
Taking time to simply slow down, observe your being and find present moment awareness will help move you into a more inward state, which can lead to a sense of peace, clarity and spaciousness.
– Kim Tupper, co-owner, Yoga Off East
Start Fresh
We often try to reflect on and make changes in our lives at the start of a new year or a new week, but the coming of a new season can be just as powerful a time for personal growth. “It is easy to reflect on where that season left us during its last iteration and the growth, or transitions, we may have experienced in the interim, for better or for worse,” says Elizabeth Christy, a clinical social worker and therapist at Duke Integrative Medicine Center.
“A reset is the opportunity to come back to center, to regulate your body and mind, and to provide space for a deep listening of your soul,” says Kim Tupper, co-owner of Yoga Off East
How you approach this seasonal shift is deeply personal. It might mean carving out more time for yourself, reevaluating your routine or reaching out for support. For Savannah Hopps, owner of Neighborhood Barre Durham, a reset means “looking at where you are at that moment, that day, that week, etc., and just deciding you want something different in order to live more fully.”
Step Outside
Summer offers an ideal chance to explore Durham’s many parks and outdoor spaces. Bennett Kirkpatrick, the creator of Insight Counseling Center, says research shows that spending time in nature can reduce stress and improve cognitive function. Exposure to sunlight also helps restore natural sleep cycles.
“Connecting to nature reminds us of the many cycles of life – the many opportunities we have to start and restart again and again,” says Radical Healing co-founder David Young Oh
My favorite mantra is ‘as able’ – to reinforce my ability to follow through with tasks and aspirations as I feel equal to them rather than feeling propelled by my anxiety to complete them.
– Elizabeth Christy, clinical social worker and therapist, Duke Integrative Medicine Center
Time outdoors can help clear your mind, whether you’re exploring Eno River State Park or wandering through Sarah P. Duke Gardens. “Go outside for a stroll, turn your phone to silent, and allow your mind to wander, reflect and let nature heal you,” Bennett says. “Your whole being will thank you!”
Move Your Body
Movement is essential to keeping our bodies healthy and our minds happy, and Durham’s yoga, Pilates and barre studios provide ample opportunities for indoor movement. “Through the practice of yoga, body, mind and breath unite to create space physically, emotionally and mentally,” Kim says. “Taking time to simply slow down, observe your being and find present moment awareness will help move you into a more inward state, which can lead to a sense of peace, clarity and spaciousness.”
These workouts come with challenges, but the rewards are worth it. “At the end of the sets, when you’re in the stretches and the endorphins are flowing, you have a second to really be proud of yourself and the work you just put in,” Savannah says.
Movement can also be communal. “When we move and flow together, connecting with our own strength and with our place inside of our community, change happens,” says Deborah Matthews, the founder and co-owner of InsideOut Body Therapies.
We are honored to have been voted best Periodontist in Durham for the second year in a row and will continue to provide the best possible periodontal care!
• Dental Implant Therapy
• Laser Periodontal Therapy (LANAP)
• Periodontal Plastic Surgery (Soft Tissue Grafting)
• Bone & Periodontal Regenerative Surgery
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• IV/Conscious Sedation
• Dental Cleanings
Build a Healthy Mindset
Caring for your mental health is equally as important as maintaining your physical health. Bennett says therapy can help people move beyond simply “functioning fine” to truly thriving with joy.
Therapy can be transformative and a great resource for people seeking to better their mental health, but it isn’t the only way to strengthen emotional well-being. “Finding environments that make you feel at ease, considering what activities or relationships help you to feel nourished and seen; these are all deeply meaningful aspects of supporting our individual wellbeing and fostering further growth,” Elizabeth says.
Find Balance
“Moving from burnout to balance requires protecting your time at all costs,” Bennett says. “Routine is vital for our minds to not be on high alert.” Establishing healthy habits like setting aside 20 minutes to go on a daily walk or sticking to a consistent bedtime can create space away from everyday stress.
Routines should also reflect what brings you joy – and what drains you. “I’d suggest evaluating what you can let go of,” says Kelly Smedley, owner and founder of Waypoint Counseling & Maternal Wellness “It’s OK to say ‘no’ to activities, to set boundaries for yourself at work, or with family or friends.”
Elizabeth says it’s important to consider that balance is a moving target and means different things for different people on different days. “By recognizing that balance may look different to you day to day, it allows you to reassess what is most meaningful to you and prioritize those aspects of your day accordingly,” she says.
I think a reset can come at any time where it feels like you need to realign your habits, your emotions and/or your lifestyle to how you want to live your life.
Whatever it is, make it your priority to set aside a small moment for yourself to do nothing related to being ‘productive,’ but rather being restorative.
– Bennett Kirkpatrick, creator, Insight Counseling Center
Embrace Joy
Take time to reconnect with what lights you up this summer, whether it’s a weekend getaway to the beach or going out to dinner with friends. “The best way to move out of burnout is through joy and connection,” David says. “Only you will know what brings you joy and what helps you feel connected.”
Finding joy and laughter plays a huge role in resetting yourself – it’s essential. “Joy should be on your to-do list,” says Marvice Marcus, director of training and internship at Radical Healing. “Cultivating joy, however small, is an integral component of wellness.”
In Loving Memory
I’m deeply honored to receive this award, and I want to dedicate it to my late father. Though he’s not here to witness this moment, I carry him with me always. His example continues to guide how I serve my clients every day. Thank you for everything.
–
Kelly Smedley, founder and owner, Waypoint Counseling & Maternal Wellness
THE
TENSOFTHOUSANDS OF VOTES WERE CAST ACROSS 115+CATEGORIESIN
DURHAM POLL.
THISYEAR’SWINNERSREPRESENT THESOULANDSPIRITOFOUR COMMUNITY _ DYNAMIC,CREATIVE ANDPROUDLYLOCAL. PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON
THE SWEET STUFF Blueberry poptarts from Little Barb’s Bakery, whose desserts and pastries were voted as some of the best in the Bull City.
2025-26 Chamber Arts Series
The 80th season of the Chamber Arts Series features eight performances by world-renowned ensembles, including Rachel Barton Pine, Takács Quartet, Manhattan Chamber Players, and more. Celebrate a legacy of excellence in Baldwin Auditorium—one of the region’s most acclaimed venues for classical music.
Pine
piano Sat, Sep 6 at 7:30pm Baldwin Auditorium
Rachel Barton
with Gilles Vonsattel,
Chef Oscar Diaz opened Aaktun this past fall, and it’s already earned a spot among Durham’s best new restaurants, according to our readers.
NEXT- LEVEL
NEWCOMERS
We asked the folks behind Durham’s hottest new restaurants what makes each one stand out
BY RENEE AMBROSO
AAKTUN
The Ramseur Street building was vacant. It stood empty while neighbors Mezcalito and Ponysaurus Brewing Co. teemed with activity.
Envisioning the space as an elevated eatery was a tall task, even for the creative mind of two-time James Beard Award semifinalist chef Oscar Diaz. “[We learned] there were only windows in the front,” he says. “I thought, ‘I’m not sure I’ve ever been to a restaurant with no windows.’” The structure presented a challenge that might have deterred a less inspired entrepreneur, but Oscar’s inventive nature spurred him to think up solutions.
He drew upon his passion for design – “I’m subscribed to Architectural Digest,” he says – and memories of vacationing in Tulum, Mexico, to develop a concept tailored to the unique characteristics of the space.
“We started thinking of it like a cenote,” Oscar says, referencing deep sinkholes that draw tourists wanting to swim in these natural phenomena found within the Yucatan Peninsula. “We wanted to make it cave-like.” It felt fitting to name the spot Aaktun, which means cave in Mayan, he says.
The fragrance of freshly brewed espresso and the hiss of a steam wand fills Aaktun’s brightly decorated foyer, which operates as a casual cafe. Down a dimly lit hallway, the dining room and bar appear like a hidden oasis where organic shapes, natural textures and clusters of leafy plants create the vibe of a lively, secluded terrarium. Skylights dot the ceiling, allowing natural light to filter in.
“The design came first,” Oscar says, but the food was far from an afterthought. The chef – who opened Little Bull, named one of Durham’s best overall restaurants by our readers – saw in Aaktun an opportunity to explore multiple cuisines, as well as modes of food service, all under one roof.
Peruvian, Colombian and Chilean influences shape the breakfast, lunch and dinner menus, which Oscar developed in collaboration with chef de cuisine Juan Camilo Espada, he says. “We [researched] dishes that are popular [in Latin America] and began tasting them and working on making them ours,” Oscar says.
Traditional Latin American flavor profiles and techniques serve as blueprints, while ingredients common in other cuisines, such as fish sauce, add unexpected flair. “I love that playfulness of mixing cultures,” Oscar says. “I don’t want to follow rules.”
Aaktun’s atypical layout also allows for this creative dining experience to pair with a drop-in cafe. “I had always wanted to [open] a coffee shop but felt that an independent one might be difficult to make [profitable] if not in a high-volume area,” Oscar says. Aaktun’s coffee bar serves grab-and-go baked goods, including everyday Latin American pastries with a twist, such as the pan de bono, a “Colombian-inspired, gluten-free yucca bread” stuffed with guava paste.
The Mexican American hails from Chicago and performed as a DJ before sharpening his skills as a chef at Michelinstarred restaurants. Oscar first made his mark locally at Raleigh’s now-shuttered
Cortez. He says that subsequently spearheading his own eateries has affirmed his sense of self: “[After] all these years of traveling and cooking in different types of kitchens, I think I’m starting to find an identity.”
Like Oscar, Aaktun has a lively, upbeat side. In May, extended late-night hours on Saturdays paired with performances by local DJs, turning the dining room and bar into a dance club. “I wanted to bring [that element of] entertainment [to Aaktun],” Oscar says. “We don’t take ourselves that seriously.”
Oscar and his business partners at the Mezcalito Group haven’t let up off the gas since Aaktun opened this past fall: They opened both a Clayton outpost of the restaurant as well as TaTaco, a casual, mercadoinspired spot in the DIY District, in March. They’re also partnering to revamp the former Lonerider Distillery and Taproom location adjacent to Aaktun and Mezcalito, and plan to transform the space into a dive bar called Barbaro, which will serve build-yourown instant ramen bowls, barbacoa and smoked meats. Oscar’s also working to open Adios! at Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s Terminal 2
Oscar’s momentum, evidently, is only growing. It’s just as well, as many Durhamites have welcomed his originality and willingness to push the envelope; our readers named Aaktun one of the city’s best new restaurants. “I wanted to be a little out-of-the-box,” Oscar says. “Everything I do is unorthodox – why stop now when it’s become my calling card?”
EMMY SQUARED
Emmy Squared serves up Detroit-style pies in Brightleaf Square, but it doesn’t stop at that: The menu rounds out with delectable appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches and craft cocktails. The Brooklyn-born concept also serves locally brewed beer: favorites from Fullsteam, Durty Bull Brewing Company, Ponysaurus Brewing Co. and Bull City Ciderworks can be found on tap, plus North Carolina-based brands such as Red Oak Brewery and Sycamore Brewing.
The stacked lineup of local craft brews is part of the national brand’s attempt to create a dining experience that weaves together its signature slices with the foodie culture of the area. Durham’s abundance of diverse foodways is part of what drew Emmy Squared to the city, says its head of marketing, Senior Vice President Sergio Pérez. “We looked at hubs where there was an intersection [among] food, culture, art and just an appreciation for elevated culinary experiences,” he says.
Each outpost of Emmy Squared is designed with decor that incorporates local art and special menu items tailored to the location. “Durham, specifically, has a cocktail [on the menu] that gives a nod to Duke and the history and roots the university has in this part of the world,” Sergio says. Meanwhile the cocktail mixers – such as the Hibiscus Habanero featured in the margarita – come from Charlotte’s Spirits of Alchemy.
But back to the star of the show – the pizzas! The attention to detail all starts with the dough, which is made in small batches daily. “It’s a
caramelized, cheesy crust around the pizza that gives you a really nice bite … but it’s also light and airy because it’s a triple-rise dough,” Sergio says. If you can’t decide from the offerings that range from the “Meatsiah” (sausage, bacon and sirloin) to the four-cheese “Miranda,” go with the biggest crowd-pleaser: The most popular pie is the “Colony,” which comes with red sauce, house-pickled jalapenos, pepperoni and honey.
THAIANGLE
Jack Ungsriwong is no newbie in the restaurant biz, having operated Carrboro’s Cham Thai for close to three years. After struggling with health issues and staffing shortages, he retired to his native Thailand for a few months before realizing that he deeply missed the Triangle and his role as a restaurateur.
ABOVE Emmy Squared's bestselling pizza, the "Colony," has red sauce, house-pickled jalapenos, pepperoni and honey. BELOW The pizza spot also serves craft cocktails like espresso martinis.
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF EMMY SQUARED
Jack decided he wanted to be part of the growth he’d noticed taking place throughout Durham’s vibrant downtown. Here, he sought and found a tight-knit, supportive community, from local leaders to friends, who helped him open a new eatery in the former Dos Perros space.
Thaiangle opened in the Mangum Street building, where wide arched windows allow diners an unobstructed view of the city center, in February 2024. The vibrantly painted walls are decorated with pieces of art from Jack’s homeland, like a tapestry of Phaya Nak, a mythical creature with connections to Buddhism, monarchy, medicine and religion.
Thaiangle serves dishes you’d find in Thailand, including classics such as pad thai, tom yum, thai basil and thai fried rice. “[These] are the pillars of what you’d find at almost every Thai restaurant,” he says. “We serve food that reminds us of home [and that], hopefully, will provide you with comfort and warmth.” Yet, the menu is also interspersed with American Chinese flavors that Jack has come across during his years living in the United States, and he puts a “Thai spin” on kung pao and Mongolian favorites, too. Staple ingredients like fish sauce, curry paste, coconut milk, and Thai herbs and spices round out these dishes, achieving careful balance among salty, savory, sweet, sour and spicy.
This melding of American and Asian cuisines echoes the multiplicity of Thai culture itself.
“Thailand has a diverse population,” Jack says, pointing out that many Indian, Chinese, Malay and Burmese communities exist within the country. “As they have integrated into Thai society, so have their foods and cultures. … There are new dishes being made and popularized by the mixing of cultures – something we believe should be celebrated!”
Jack and his family members each have their own personal favorites that have earned spots on Thaiangle’s lunch and dinner menus. Jack is partial to the khao soi, a chicken dish with steamed egg noodles, scallions and cilantro, all tossed in a northern Thai-style curry and topped with crispy noodles. Khao soi is served with kimchi, red onions, bean sprouts and chiles steeped in oil on the side – an appropriate accoutrement to this hearty, flavorful meal. As for our recommendation, we’re eyeing the next open dinner reservation to dive into the “Thaiangle Trout” – a deep-fried, boneless whole fish piled high with fresh chiles, carrots, bell peppers, spicy garlic sauce and crispy basil.
Jack has crafted more than just a menu at Thaiangle – he’s created a warm, vibrant reflection of the many places and flavors that shaped him. From the downtown views through those sweeping windows to the fusion of tradition and reinvention on each plate, the restaurant is a love letter to both Thailand and the Triangle. And with Thaiangle landing on this year’s Best of Durham list for new restaurant, it seems the feeling is mutual.
Chicken Satay, tom kha soup with chicken, papaya salad, Thai iced tea, Thaiangle Trout and drunken noodles with shrimp.
PATTY BOY
Marshall Davis and Angela Salamanca had their sights set on a vacant stall in the Durham Food Hall. It was just a few steps from Ex-Voto, their playful Mexican food haven. The bigger leap would be piecing together a fresh concept centered on American fast-casual staples, a departure from the foodways they’d focused on since they first partnered up as proprietors of Raleigh’s Gallo Pelón Mezcaleria, which operated from 2015 till May 2025.
“We studied what was missing in the food hall and had a conversation with our chef [Dallas Howard],” Marshall says. “He’s from rural North Carolina and is a meat-and-potatoes kind of guy. [We noticed] ever since Old North Meats & Provisions left, there’s no one doing burgers or fried chicken.” The team also noted the lack of fare geared toward families. “There weren’t many [nearby dining] options for families [enjoying] Durham Central Park and that community space, which is why we opened Patty Boy,” Marshall says. “[Our kids meal] has been super popular, and we have a Big Kid’s meal for adults with a Lego set – something [many] adults enjoy.”
Patty Boy offers Oklahoma-style, onion-heavy smashburgers that are pressed “pretty darn thin,” Marshall says, creating crispy, lacy edges. The
patties are sandwiched between buttery Martin’s Famous Potato Rolls and Bread sliders and dressed with a secret sauce based on “the holy trinity of mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup,” plus cherry peppers for a spicy kick. A vegetarian burger is available, made with patties that are shaped and proportioned specially for Patty Boy by Impossible Foods. The menu is imbued with eastern North Carolina influences as well, Marshall says, in the techniques that are used for preparing fried chicken and composing sauces: The “Redneck Polynesian” is a blend of vinegar-based barbecue sauce –sourced from Kinston’s Kings Restaurant – ketchup and Texas Pete. Other North Carolina products and produce are highlighted throughout the menu, such as hoop cheese from Ashe County, green tomatoes from Wendell’s Blue Sky Farms and shrimp from Durham Food Hall neighbor and fellow Best of Durham winner Locals Seafood.
“There are lots of great burgers in Durham,” Marshall concedes, but he believes what makes Patty Boy stand out isn’t the crispy patties or even its slick, ’50s-inspired branding. “I think a major part of the experience of eating a Patty Burger is that it’s served by a team that is genuinely invested in your having an [exceptional] meal,” Marshall says. “If we ever fall short, I guarantee we’ll make it right if given the chance, and that isn’t the case everywhere else.”
Patty Boy offers a special Burger of the Month, often created in partnership with local makers, such as the pimento cheese burger that featured pimento cheese from Raleighbased Nation’s Pantry paired with fried green tomatoes, cherry pepper jelly and bacon.
PHOTO BY FORREST MASON
PHOTO BY MARSHALL DAVIS
POUR QUALITY
What makes a truly exceptional wine list? Uncork the secrets behind the best selections in town, from expert pairings to rare vintages that keep wine lovers coming back for more.
BY SHARON KINSELLA
PRIME PAIRINGS
Nothing pairs better with a well-cooked steak than a delicious glass of wine, and no one understands that better than the team behind NanaSteak. Managing Partner Graham Weddington has been at the helm of the American Tobacco Campus staple since 2016, and was joined by Wine Director Paul DiMario last year. Graham brings 27 years of industry experience to the table, having tended bar at Nanas and Margaux’s Restaurant in Raleigh before coming to NanaSteak. Paul, on the other hand, is an advanced-level sommelier who has created wine lists for restaurants in Boston, Massachusetts, and Vail, Colorado, before transitioning to wholesale distribution here in North Carolina. He joined the team at NanaSteak in October 2024.
The team presents a globally diverse wine list featuring selections from top growing regions. Of course, plenty of steak-friendly options are available, but the list showcases a wide range of styles and varietals to suit every palate and budget – from value-priced picks to age-worthy collectibles. About 25 core wines remain consistently available, and the rest of the list is in constant rotation, with limited-availability selections keeping things fresh and dynamic. The team updates wines by the glass regularly, and a featured wine is almost always on offer. Graham says it’s important that the wines he selects tell a story about where they come from, so wine lovers have something meaningful to explore. The focus is firmly on quality above all else – uniqueness alone doesn’t guarantee a great wine.
That said, one standout aspect of the menu that delivers both character and excellence is NanaSteak’s selection of aged offerings, including bottles with a decade or more of maturity, like an
Old World 2013 red from Chateau Belle-Vue or a 2012 Colgin cabernet sauvignon. The latter appears on the “Captain’s List” – NanaSteak’s collection of rare and limited selections from around the world – and is priced at a luxurious $925 per bottle.
Visit NanaSteak for dinner any day of the week to take advantage of the thoughtfully curated wine list and rotating glass pours, all expertly selected to elevate every bite.
BEYOND THE BOTTLE
Killer Queen Wine Bar on East Main Street is as eclectic in flavor as it is in style. Its impressively diverse and unusual – yet approachable – list of more than 50 wines reflects deep knowledge and respect for the grape, without forgetting that wine is, and should be, fun. “I love having hidden gems that wine connoisseurs will appreciate,” says wine director Ryan Branagan. “But I prefer to cater to those who come in lost. Plenty of folks know they like wine and would love to explore it, but don’t know where to start – that’s who our list is meant to speak to directly.” Ryan happily accommodates fans of familiar varietals like sauvignon blanc, chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon, but also encourages them to explore higher quality expressions of those varietals. “If a guest is used to domestic chardonnay, why not give them a taste of a Chablis Premier Cru? If they love a big, bold nebbiolo from the Piedmont, why not try one from Baja California, [Mexico]? There’s usually more to learn and taste and experience even of those well-known varietals, and that discovery process is half the fun.”
Ryan’s approach to accessible education extends to Killer Queen’s pricing. Wines by the glass range from $12 to $25, with most of the unusual
NanaSteak Wine Director Paul DiMario curates a wine list that caters to every occasion, palate and plate.
options landing on the lower end. “There’s a vast and vibrant world of wine out there that’s progressing and changing all the time,” Ryan says. “If you incentivize folks to explore it, they often leave grateful that they stepped out of their comfort zone – and are more curious and daring during their next visit.”
The team also follows the 95/5 rule popularized by Will Guidara’s bestseller “Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect” – that is, they keep pricing tight and margins comfortable for 95% of their menu items, and throw those rules out the window for that last 5% to treat guests to special offerings regardless of the cost. “It’s usually that unreasonable 5% that turns a memorable experience into a truly unforgettable one,” Ryan reports.
Ryan brings more than a decade of industry experience to the table across diverse bars and eateries, on top of training as a historian and educator. His background gives him a unique perspective when it comes to sourcing wines for “downtown Durham’s social living room.” He actively seeks out indigenous-, Black- and womanowned vineyards where possible, and deeply considers politics of land ownership, agricultural labor and sustainable and ecologically-responsible viticulture (the cultivation and harvesting of grapes).
One of his favorite wines to recommend is Cremisan Baladi from Palestine, which comes from the first winery in the West Bank to use indigenous Palestinian grapes. It was founded by Salesian monks in the late 19th century to guarantee work opportunities for the poor in the area and create a revenue source for the monastery’s orphanage. The medium-bodied red wine has a food-friendly, lively acidity and soft tannins, with a nice balance between the grape’s plum and red fruit flavors and the vanilla and allspice notes imbued by oak
aging. Ryan says almost every day he hears remarks like, ‘Oh, wow, I’ve never tried wine from Palestine!’ or ‘I didn’t know there were Maori-owned vineyards in New Zealand!’ “That’s extremely meaningful to me,” he says.
Killer Queen’s accessible wine education and selection are unique, but the bar’s real magic lies in the harmony of the complete experience, which includes exceptional culinary offerings from head chef Kyle West and an unrivaled whimsical ambiance. Founder Silvia Gallo curated the bar’s playful aesthetic and artistic selections, complete with maximalist decor, bold colors, comfortable couches and a charming patio. Current owners Sean Umstead and Michelle Vanderwalker continue to refine that vision with thoughtful and creative choices while honoring its roots. They collaborate with Ryan and Kyle to maintain a cohesive and holistic approach that informs every detail of the guest experience. “We really try to be as intentional about our guests’ experiences as possible … from the moment they walk in the door to the moment they depart,” Ryan says.
Killer Queen Wine Bar is an inclusive, rebellious and community-oriented space that’s serious about quality food and beverage service. The bar is open daily and also hosts private events. Guests can take advantage of weekly specials, including half-off bottles on Mondays and half-off bottles to-go every day. Free tastings, live music and creative arts-and-crafts events add extra excitement throughout the summer and fall. The bar delivers a vibrant downtown experience, whether you’re after standout service, thoughtful food-and-wine pairings or simply a welcoming place to relax.
GRAPE EXPECTATIONS
The Wine Feed is an all-in-one restaurant, wine bar and retail space known for partnering with hundreds of small and family-owned producers from around the
STANDOUT PICKS
NanaSteak
Remelluri Reserva Rioja 2016
Reynolds Family Winery Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Produttori del Barbaresco 2020
Soter Vineyards Estates Pinot Noir 2020
world. The Wine Feed became a full-service restaurant last summer and has since focused on maintaining regional diversity while selecting wines that play well with its dishes – from light fare to the richest course on the menu.
General Manager Erin Emmerling forges personal connections with both guests and wine producers to thoughtfully curate The Wine Feed’s monthly rotation of by-the-glass selections. “We always strive to offer something for everyone to ensure that all visitors will discover something that appeals to them,” Erin says. The rotating list gives guests the chance to sample more than 150 different wines each year – not including the additional offerings featured at free tastings and special events – and invites guests to explore new styles, regions and expressions of their favorite grape varieties.
Erin says many folks are eager to branch out and expand their palates. She finds they’re intrigued by unusual or unfamiliar styles, so she balances offering well-known wines with more adventurous or lesser-known picks by subverting certain expectations. “If we pick a well-known grape varietal,” she explains, “we might choose one grown in an unexpected place. For example, we recently had a tempranillo from California on the menu – a grape most people usually associate with Spain!”
Erin regularly leads immersive tours through renowned wine regions across the globe, offering guests hands-on experiences that
deepen their understanding and appreciation of wine. Current destinations include Eastern Spain, Portugal, Tuscany and the Rhône Valley and Provence in France. One of the April menu’s hidden gems was a riesling from Marziano Abbona, a beloved producer The Wine Feed team recently visited during their travels in Italy. Erin says that spending time with winemakers – sharing meals, hearing their stories and learning about their traditions firsthand – fosters a deep sense of connection between their communities and ours. “This is what it’s all about!” she says.
The Wine Feed also offers a tiered wine club featuring two handpicked bottles each month, with options tailored to different quality levels. Seasonal and specialty options include a rosé club from April through September and a collectors’ club focused on ageable wines. Members enjoy a range of perks, including discounts, class credits, exclusive giveaways and invitations to special events.
The team at The Wine Feed prides itself on helping each person find the perfect glass or bottle to complement their day or meal. Hospitality and approachability are at the heart of the experience, with wine education that meets people where they are on their wine journey. Enjoy everything from thoughtfully paired dinners and curated events to guided tours, subscription-based selections and quick stops to grab a high-quality bottle for your next meal.
with a couple of soy-marinated soft eggs and cocktails that live up to their names: Not Your Average Highball and A Better Old Fashioned.
NOODLE
A duo of ramen dreams at Dashi — chuka soba and tonkotsu paired
Get your noodles, spice and everything nice at these flavor-packed spots serving Durham’s most mouthwatering Asian and Italian cuisine
BY HANNAH LEE
ON THIS
TONKOTSU
SEASONAL BONUS: CHUKA SOBA
Before Dashi debuted back in 2015, Nick Hawthorne-Johnson made it a point to take his entire opening night team – chefs, operations staff, everyone – to Tokyo so they could experience firsthand the kind of restaurant and cuisine he hoped to emulate.
The group tried everything, including more bowls and varieties of ramen noodles than they could count, over the course of 10 days in Japan. “Ramen is like the Wild West,” Nick says. “It’s acceptable to do whatever you want, and so everyone’s ramen is different.” But out of all the specialties Nick and his staff sampled, they kept coming back to one type they couldn’t get enough of: tonkotsu, the traditional pork broth that inspired many modern takes.
It’s no wonder, then, that Dashi’s version of tonkotsu – featuring a healthy portion of Japanese pork belly (known as chashu) and broth that simmers for more than 24 hours –has similarly emerged as a favorite of diners back home in Durham.
“It’s comfort food,” Nick says. “That broth is so wonderful, and the chashu is so delicious – just the whole thing is part of why we started doing ramen.”
As delectable as Dashi’s tonkotsu and other classic ramens are, Nick alters the menu seasonally to showcase various esteemed noodle dishes found within Japanese culture. He’s welcoming the summer season with what he says “might be my favorite dish on the menu.” Chuka soba features cold noodles, homemade egg omelet (known as tamago) and plenty of locally sourced vegetables. “The goal, really, is to express the best produce of the season, whatever season you’re coming into,” Nick says, “because that’s so much a part of what Japanese cuisine is about.”
TAGLIATELLE AL RAGU
If five months of hand-rolling pasta in Italy taught Josh DeCarolis anything, it’s that there’s no substitute for the classics. Or the right rolling pin.
Before taking his current position as the chef at Mothers & Sons Trattoria, Josh spent almost half a year studying at “pasta school” in Bologna, learning the ins and outs of authentic Italian cooking. The style he made most often, Tagliatelle al Ragu, is the Bologna-specific version of a dish served nationwide. What separates the recipe Josh learned – the one he personally brought back to Durham – is the specific ragu sauce native to Bologna with its ground beef, ground pork, carrots, celery, onions and garlic. “Every [Italian] town has their own style,” Josh says. “Each town claims that theirs is the best, but in my humble opinion, this is the best.”
To ensure the quality, he follows the same pasta-making process he did overseas, down to using a wooden rolling pin and cutting board to flatten every batch of dough. In theory, Josh could use a machine or steel rolling pin to save himself some elbow grease, but there’s a reason he doesn’t. Using the wood, he explains, gives the dough “texture” that you lose if you use flawless steel – texture, he adds, “which helps hold the ragu.”
That dedication underscores the recipe he spent months perfecting. “It’s not just because I like making more work for myself, you know what I mean?” Josh jokes. “It has an impact.”
SPICY VODKA TOMATO CREAM RIGATONI
Jimmy Kim does not claim to have created one of the most popular pasta dishes in the world.
Still, after seven years of fine-tuning his version – one of the only dishes left from Cucciolo Osteria’s original menu – he takes great pride in the result.
“I guess there’s a reason why people call it a classic,” Jimmy, the owner of the West Main Street restaurant, says, “because you don’t get tired of eating it.”
Two things separate his take on the staple, starting with how long he lets his spicy tomato sauce base simmer. “It’s always very important to not rush that process,” he says. Beyond that, a healthy dollop of housemade ricotta on top gives the dish the perfect amount of creaminess to balance out its inherent heat.
Jimmy first fell in love with the recipe at Cucciolo’s sister (and original) location in South Korea, which was founded by his cousin in 2015. He had a taste – and was so stricken by the flavor that he made it the mainstay of his restaurant back in Durham. Thankfully, diners flocking to his newest venture – Cucciolo Famiglia in Sutton Station, which opens in late June – will find the fan favorite on that menu, too.
“It’s more of a classic Italian dish,” Jimmy says, “but I think we nailed the recipe exactly the way we want – and the guests have been enjoying it.”
STAY AWHILE
A downtown landmark marks 10 years while evolving to better meet the Bull City’s needs
BY RENEE AMBROSO | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE DURHAM HOTEL
Visitors have crossed The Durham Hotel’s threshold throughout the past decade, seeking steaming cappuccinos from the ground floor coffee bar or something stronger from The Roof restaurant and bar.
The circa 1968 East Chapel Hill Street structure first housed the office headquarters of the Home Savings and Loan Association before entering a new era as a chic boutique hotel in 2015. Renovations preserved the building’s mid-century facade, cementing it as a charming downtown landmark.
The Durham recently received a subtle refresh: cosmetic upgrades that began in August 2024 quietly transformed its gathering spaces, says general manager Emily Strickland. “You may walk in and not immediately notice, because we stayed true to our original design,” she says. “The carpet, chairs and banquettes [on the ground floor] are all the original design, but completely new.
On the roof, there’s all new furniture, from the tables and chairs to couches, [as well as new] bar flooring.”
The refresh wrapped in April, as The Durham announced extended coffee bar hours (with counter service from 7 a.m. on weekdays and 7:30 a.m. on weekends until 9 p.m., seven days a week) plus updates to the menu. The fresh lineup of breakfast and brunch items, small plates, shareable entrees and desserts is structured to fill a gap for both early birds and night owls seeking meal options throughout the day, which the hotel’s management team identified as a need for its clientele, while also encouraging the daytime crowd to stick around the lobby area well into the evening.
“The community in that space has really grown,”
The Roof's sixth-floor deck offers panoramic views of CCB Plaza and the city center.
Emily says. “It’s evolved, and people come each day to work and [conduct] meetings or social lunches – it’s rarely empty. … We felt the [atmosphere] this space had during the day was vibrant, and we wanted to make that option available at night as well.”
The inventive menu highlights local ingredients, from a housemade wild-caught North Carolina shrimp burger to mac-andcheese arancini served with a housemade honey mustard, which has a kick thanks to the addition of Ponysaurus Brewing Co.’s
LEFT The Coffee Bar at The Durham is a great hangout with plenty of natural light, Counter Culture Coffee, strong WiFi and lots of room to spread out. RIGHT The coffee soda features Markola coffee syrup, club soda and lemon for a refreshing nonalcoholic sip.
The Roof at The Durham now accepts reservations for tables under the covered portion and for the couch pods on the open-air portion of the rooftop for parties larger than six. Walk-ins are always welcome. Make a reservation at thedurham.com/ roof or by calling 919-768-8831.
Choose your own adventure with the deconstructed martini, which comes with your choice of gin or vodka plus add-ins: Carpano Dry vermouth, olive
cherry sour. Produce is often sourced from the Durham Farmers Market
Pair your meal with a cocktail, mocktail, tea or Counter Culture Coffee brew. The lineup of libations is centered on classics served in fresh ways; the new deconstructed martini is an interactive, “choose your own adventure” experience, Emily says, with patrons getting to take their pick of toppings from Castelvetrano olives to blue cheese.
The formal place settings and dim lighting that previously made the dining area suited to a special occasion meal have been swapped for a welcoming ambience. Now it’s acceptable – encouraged, even – to linger over your meal while enjoying a board game, puzzle, new read (browse the rotating selection curated by Letters Bookshop) or simply chatting with friends.
Meanwhile, six stories up, The Roof also got a menu revamp with seasonal standouts like a build-your-own spritz bar on Sundays and fresh-shucked oysters – a former offering that’s returned due to customer demand, Emily says.
“We’ve pivoted back to being open at The Roof during the day on Sundays,” she adds. “Those hours are 1-8 p.m., while during the week it’s open from 4 or 5 till 11 p.m.”
Head to The Roof this summer to enjoy live jazz from Grammy-nominated trumpeter Al Strong on Thursday evenings, sets from rotating local DJs on Sundays, monthly story times for all ages hosted by the Durham County Library and more.
brine, blue cheese and Castelvetrano or queen olives.
The Roof recently underwent some flooring updates, but still features the same golden hour drinks, shareable bites and downtown views that never get old.
PHOTO BY SPENCER LOWELL
D urham P rostho D ontics
s P ecialists in aesthetic oral restoration
Geoffrey R. Cunningham, DDS, MS, FACP
R. Kyle Gazdeck, DDS, MS, FACP
Drs. Geoffrey Cunningham and Kyle Gazdeck are Board Certified Prosthodontists serving the Triangle region. They specialize in creating custom smiles with dental implants, crowns, veneers, and dentures. Their board certification achievement makes Durham Prosthodontics stand out as the only prosthodontic practice in the RaleighDurham area with dually Boarded Specialists. In addition, Durham Prosthodontics is proud to be honored with the American College of Prosthodontics Private Practice Award. This award is only given out to four prosthodontic practices in the nation annually.
RECIPE FOR SUCCESS M
Matt Kelly’s award as one of the best chefs in Durham isn’t his alone
BY HANNAH LEE
att Kelly didn’t come to Durham with the intention of building a dining empire. He just wanted a job.
“A straight-up gig,” he says. This was back in the early 2000s, when celebrated restaurateur Giorgios
Bakatsias was seeking a chef for Vin Rouge, his vision for a French bistro that he hoped could become a local mainstay. And Matt, an up-and-coming young chef eager to grow, was looking to stretch his culinary legs.
“I saw a great canvas,” he recalls, “and thought I could practice cooking there.”
Practice he did, and in the process, he turned Vin Rouge (which he now co-owns) into a cornerstone of Durham’s burgeoning dining scene. That was the first of many restaurants Matt would help transform into local favorites over the next two decades, including Mateo, Mothers & Sons and the recently revived Nanas.
This impressive track record earned him the recognition of one of Durham’s best chefs from Durham Magazine readers for the 10th time – the most in the publication’s history.
Just don’t let Matt hear you giving him all the credit.
“When you build a larger brand, people always want to focus on you,” Matt says, “and it’s a huge appreciation – but at the same time, there’s all these amazing people who are working their a**** off who also need to start building their own name. I try to be a pretty big proponent of that.”
Matt hopes this latest accolade brings overdue (and well-deserved) recognition to the chefs driving his restaurants forward:
Steven McRae, the head chef at Vin Rouge; Abby Bangs at Mateo; Josh DeCarolis at
Kelly and Tom Cuomo inside their
Matt
soon-to-open pizza joint, Dino's, at University Hill.
Mothers & Sons; and Tom Cuomo, who will be the executive chef at Dino’s, which is set to open in June. (Matt remains the executive chef at Nanas, which he bought from former owner Scott Howell in 2022. Scott originally founded Nana’s in 1992, but when pandemic pressures shuttered the iconic restaurant, Matt stepped in and revived it with a new menu, interior makeover and slight name tweak.)
Now, Matt has come full circle and is doing for his culinary team, who he believes are Durham’s next wave of star chefs, what Giorgios once did for him – give them the canvas.
“I just hope they’re the catalysts who make Durham a tastier place,” Matt says. “[That] they get to practice what they want, make a good livelihood, balance life for themselves and keep Durham tasty, as the chefs and small business owners before us have.”
A SLICE OF WHAT’S N EXT
Matt Kelly and Tom Cuomo cook up a new family-friendly pizzeria
Before Dino’s, there was Dean As in, Tom Cuomo’s 8-year-old son. But the name behind Tom and Matt Kelly’s new pizza joint, which opens at University Hill this summer, isn’t just a sentimental nod to Tom’s firstborn. It’s a testament to what Tom and Matt hope Dino’s becomes: “A place where our families could go,” Matt says.
While Matt’s other restaurants – including Mateo, where Tom once served as sous chef – are family-welcoming, both he and Tom acknowledge that taking a toddler to a fancier establishment can sometimes be more trouble than it’s worth.
“I think about trying to bring my kids in [Nanas], and they would just tear the dining room apart,” Tom says. “Especially my 16-monthold. So to think about being able to create a place where those things are the norm – where we can look forward to having those groups in there – was exciting.”
That family-friendly ethos doesn’t mean that diners should expect a basic menu aimed at picky eaters. Not at all. For the past year, the chefs have been refining recipes in the oven at Alimentari at Mothers & Sons, perfecting their “crispy and crunchy” dough that works with every topping (including Dean’s favorite, pepperoni). “I was eating pizza five nights a week during those times,” Tom says. The pies will be the star, but Dino’s will also serve complementary classics, including crispy wings, cheesy strombolis and simple salads.
The buzz has already exceeded expectations. Matt says he’s heard more hype for the forthcoming casual eatery than he did for Nanas and the now-shuttered Saint James’ reopenings combined. Even Dean, who always kept his family nickname a secret, now wears it like a badge of honor. Pride can do that.
“He tells all of his friends,” Tom says, “to call him Dino now.”
DIY DISCOVER THE DISTRICT
This vibrant pocket is brimming with Best of Durham award winners. Here’s how to spend an average Saturday enjoying it:
BY RENEE AMBROSO
8 a.m. – Start the day with a freshly brewed coffee or tea from Cocoa Cinnamon – which roasts its own beans as best artisan food product award winner Little Waves Coffee Roasters – or Foster Street Coffee. Round out your breakfast with a treat from Little Barb’s Bakery (we’re partial to the poptarts and s’mores bars) located inside the nearby Durham Food Hall
8:30 a.m. – The Durham Farmers Market brings a bustle of activity to Durham Central Park on Saturday mornings and Wednesday afternoons. Stroll through the pavilion to stock up on artisan goods from several of our readers’ favorite vendors: handmade ravioli, pasta and sauces from Melina’s Fresh Pasta, a baker’s dozen from Isaac’s Bagels and body care products from Lo & Behold at the adjacent Durham Craft Market.
A toast to the roast! Cheers to local flavor with Cocoa Cinnamon and Foster Street Coffee, named two of the best coffee shops in Durham.
11 a.m. – Nourish your body and mind during a vinyasa or mat pilates class at Virge Yoga, which opened at 200 Morris St., Ste. 140, in February 2025, then recharge with a smoothie from the studio’s &Exhale Bar. Virge was named by readers as one of Durham’s best new businesses as well as a best place to get in shape and best yoga/Pilates/barre center – read why starting on page 66.
Noon – Head to Hutchins Garage at 402 W. Geer St. for lunch. This pizza joint occupying a circa 1948 former auto supply shop and warehouse has a sizable patio perfect for enjoying its beloved
“Grandma-style” pies with a thick crust shaped in a distinctive rectangle. Try the mojo beef and potato pizza, which features an olive oil base piled high with mojo-braised beef and red onion, plus housemade chimichurri, crispy potato sticks, pecorino cheese and parsley.
1 p.m. – Cool off with a sublime scoop or pop from LocoShop on Foster Street, where you’ll find LocoPops treats –including cakes and pies – and a variety of sundries such as locally crafted home goods, grocery items and more.
2 p.m. – Venture to Welcome Tattoo, where you can walk in each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Choose a flash design, or try your luck at the “Get What You Get” machine, which provides a surprise tattoo design for the price of $150.
3 p.m. – Head on up to LouElla Wine, Beer & Beverage, a bottle shop, bar and intimate event space on Geer Street that highlights curated selections from familyowned vineyards as well as local craft beer. Take your favorite sip to go while you stroll through The Bullpen – the social district extends throughout most of the DIY District.
4 p.m. – Stock up on CBD- and THCinfused products from Foster Street’s Heal Tree and Sherlocks Glass & Dispensary on Broadway Street, both of which garnered Best of Durham nods.
Little Barb’s Bakery serves up nostalgia by the bite, from toasted s’mores bars to fruity poptarts.
Bluebird Meadows' Stuart White hands Cheryl Turney a bouquet of flowers at the Durham Farmers Market.
5
p.m. – The DIY District is home to two of Durham Magazine readers’ favorite craft breweries: newcomer Atomic Clock Brewing Co. and established institution The Glass Jug Beer Lab.
7
p.m. – Return to the Durham Food Hall to dine at Locals Seafood, named one of the best spots to find seafood in the Bull City. The menu varies depending on the availability of North Carolina-based ocean fare, though you’re sure to find both fresh and roasted oysters in addition to its delectable smoked fish dip available any day you drop by.
8
p.m. – Corpse Reviver Cocktail Bar & Lounge’s art deco-inspired underground watering hole serves award-winning Conniption gins crafted at the Durham Distillery space that occupies the floor above it. Order one of its six signature martinis – the “Subzero Purple Rain” features Conniption’s popular Kinship Gin, which imparts a lavender hue – or a cocktail from the seasonally rotating menu, plus beer, wine, bubbly, spirits, small bites and desserts.
9 p.m. – The DIY District lights up at night: rock out at Motorco Music Hall or rack up points playing arcade games, air hockey, pingpong and more at Boxcar Bar + Arcade.
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STARTING
STRONG
Inside our readers’ fave new Bull City businesses
BY APRIL DUDASH PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX BOERNER
ROOTED & RISING
Virge Yoga’s dedicated community can be found flowing through rooftop sessions at Unscripted Durham, moving mindfully beside the produce and flower stalls at the Durham Farmers Market, or stretching in the courtyard within the Durham Innovation District.
The studio itself transitioned from a temporary space along Rigsbee Avenue to a more permanent home at Durham ID on Morris Street just a few months ago. That journey is reflected in its name, Virge, which combines the Latin word for strength, “vi,” with the word “surge.”
“We are strong, and we are on the verge together,” says Jodi Myers, owner and CEO, adding she chose Durham because its vibe “of authenticity, of keeping it real,” closely aligned with her vision to start a yoga business.
Jodi combined the business lessons learned in her 25 years as an owner of a spray foam installation company with her passion for
Jodi Myers performs a modified warrior pose in a studio at Virge Yoga.
dance and holistic wellness. Virge currently offers five class styles, from nonheated, gentle beginner exercises to heated power yoga for more advanced practitioners.
The business’ growth continues. Jodi opened a second location in Holly Springs in February, and she’s onboarding new instructors to provide more classes and creative community events in order to meet the Durham demand. What means the most to her, though, are the heartwarming stories she hears directly from students – how yoga at Virge has helped individuals reduce stress and build body awareness and strength.
“I have been blown away by the positive reception of the Bull City,” Jodi says. “Without a shadow of a doubt, it’s exactly where we are supposed to be. It’s surpassed all my hopes and dreams.”
RIGHT Jodi is a native of western North Carolina and a graduate of the North Carolina School of the Arts.
BELOW Color-changing lights and a heated room set the stage for an energizing, immersive workout experience at Virge.
PLAY IT FORWARD
Ayesha Moore originally planned to stick to sports when she first came up with the idea to offer child development drop-in sessions and day camps. But that vision soon evolved to include math tutoring, Spanish lessons, grief support and more.
Ayesha grew up in Currie, North Carolina, but she considers Durham home. The city’s proximity to different schools and Research Triangle Park, as well as its growing number of families inspired her to launch Major Minors in January 2024. She blended her three passions – Spanish tutoring, a math-focused upbringing (she participated in her school’s math league as a teen) and her master’s degree focused on children and playbased learning.
“People underestimate the power of play, and it’s so important with children,” Ayesha says. “Children will take in more information, or they will communicate more through play versus any other communication style.”
Major Minors hosts everything from team kickball games to summer camps – complete with water games and pizza parties –for ages 4 to 12 at South Durham’s Piney Wood Park Ayesha plans to expand further with birthday parties, movie nights and local
Major Minors founder Ayesha Moore, center, shares a moment with Lucas Siesser, 11, Zia’Mari Newkirk-Penders, 10, and Lauren Hankins, 12, during a weekend session at Piney Wood Park.
partnerships for parents’ nights out. She’s also searching for a permanent home for the program.
Ayesha says, for her, the greatest reward is in witnessing the growth of the children she serves.
Success is “a child coming out of their comfort zone,” she says, “to see or hear later that a child tried something new, or they joined a team at school because of what they do at Major Minors.”
ABOVE Zia’Mari scales the playground equipment with ease.
RIGHT Team sports are just one part of the action-packed programming that keep Major Minors kids moving and learning.
DRIVEN TO SERVE
Kevin Tarpley didn’t have to look far to find the perfect spot for his new automotive business. He opened Champion Tire & Automotive just a mile from his childhood neighborhood of Eno Trace and his current home off Horton Road. Kevin, who’s worked as a technician, service manager and more throughout his 21 years in the automotive industry, knew he was ready to launch his own shop. When the North Roxboro Street lot became available, he seized the opportunity and opened doors on May 1, 2024.
The business offers a range of auto repair services, from tire replacements and oil changes to engine diagnostics and inspections. Kevin’s team includes specialists in diesel, hybrid and construction vehicles. The positive reception from customers has encouraged him to expand, and he’s working on doubling the number of vehicle lifts in his space and growing his staff, which is 60% women.
“I’m very proud of my team,” Kevin says. “The majority of my customers come from word of mouth because of how well I take care of my customers, because of how honest I am. It spreads. You make somebody happy, they’re going to tell one more person.”
That same spirit of integrity shapes his community service. After Hurricane Helene, Kevin took time to deliver toiletries and food to affected western North
LEFT Champion Tire & Automotive owner Kevin Tarpley keeps things rolling at his north Durham shop.
BELOW Ally O’Hare, right, observes as Bear O’Brien gets under the hood.
Carolina areas. Recently, he offered an oil change promotion in exchange for nonperishable food donations to help combat local food insecurity.
Every service at Champion Tire & Automotive starts with a complimentary courtesy check complete with technician photos and notes. The sign in front of the shop proudly says it best: Here you’ll find “professionals you can trust.”
“My goal when I started [the] business was to make an impact in my community,” says Kevin, who has his sights on creating a franchise.
“The bigger this business becomes, the more impact I can make.”
NAILED IT
Chelsea Combs says she didn’t just want to start a business – she wanted to help preserve Durham’s character. A fourthgeneration Durham native, she founded Green Hill Contracting in 2023 with a mission to breathe new life into the city’s older homes. “I wanted to be able to keep that Durham charm,” she says.
Green Hill specializes in kitchen and bath remodels but also handles full-home renovations, condo upfits, and attic conversions. The company has already garnered recognition for its work, earning four awards for its remodel work from the Home Builders Association of Durham, Orange & Chatham Counties in 2024.
Chelsea has added a project manager and a coordinator to her team and expects to hire more. She says she’s seen firsthand how her presence as a woman in construction resonates. Many of Green Hill’s referrals come from local moms’ groups, and both vendors and industry peers help to support and uplift her business. She also finds that women homeowners who are looking for renovation help “tend to connect with me a little better,” Chelsea says. “As a result, they choose to move forward with us.”
Chelsea Combs partnered with her husband, Ken Combs – owner of fellow Best of Durham winner CQC Home – to launch Green Hill, extending CQC’s signature quality and communication to renovation projects outside its typical scope.
OF THE STYLE
SEASON
COMPILED
BY
CHARLOTTE COOPER
urham’s most fashionable shops – named best clothing stores in Durham by our readers –showcase their signature summer style with curated, head-to-toe looks that blend trend, personality and plenty of local flair. These outfits prove that Bull City style is anything but ordinary, whether it’s through bold accessories, breezy silhouettes or designer pieces with major draw. See how each store styled a standout summer ensemble – from vintage vibes to runway-ready polish – and find inspiration for your next warm-weather refresh.
NATURALLY CHIC
TIGRESS
This elegant styling makes a bold yet balanced statement with its color-blocked palette and clean lines. The outfit features a matching set from SKFK – an abstractprint top and coordinating skirt in bright shades of orange, cobalt, navy and white. The geometric pattern brings a modern, artistic flair, while the breezy fabric and structured silhouette keep the look polished and wearable.
The fit rounds out with bold, eco-friendly accessories: large earrings with a waterfall of tagua slices in complementary colors and a chunky bracelet from Organic Tagua Jewelry, both crafted from sustainable tagua nut. Simple brown Nikola Boho sandals keep the focus on the standout set, adding understated ease.
This joyful summer look from Rumors radiates retro and trendy flair. The cropped magenta off-the-shoulder top is ruched for a flattering fit and framed by puffy sleeves, creating a flirty, feminine silhouette. Paired with a high-waisted midi skirt from Miaou, the ensemble pops with intricate, tapestry-style prints in shades of green, blue, purple and white – each panel telling its own visual story.
The accessories elevate the charm; a petite wicker handbag adds texture, while chunky lavender Melissa platform sandals deliver a punch of pastel power. Sparkling silver earrings, layered necklaces and rings round out the outfit with fun, expressive detail, all topped off with a standout chain belt.
Shop Cider Top $8
Miaou Skirt $32
Melissa Platform Sandals $30
Liz Claiborne Bag
Silver Earrings
$4
$8
Rings $8 each or 2 for $15
Pearl Necklace
$12
Purple Stone Bracelet
$4
Silver Bangle
Chain Belt
$16
$6
PAST PERFECT
DURHAM VINTAGE COLLECTIVE
This delightfully retro ensemble – modeled by “Mr. Parrish,” Durham Vintage Collective’s mascot and store icon – is a technicolor time capsule that captures the playful spirit of midcentury style layered with accessories from later decades, all handpicked by Bull City Vintage and Disco Designs Vintage. The window-worthy look centers on a vibrant floral shirt dress in a vivid mix of turquoise, blue, green, pink, yellow and orange. It’s belted at the waist for shape and paired with a bright pink scarf, bringing a touch of drama to the summer-ready palette.
Mr. Parrish accessorizes with a velour bucket hat, chunky turquoise and silver-plated necklaces, and gold tone bracelets, all echoing the eclectic, collected-overtime aesthetic of true vintage lovers. The baby blue cruiser bike parked alongside him completes the scene with a dose of nostalgic adventure. Surrounded by ’80s and ’90s tchotchkes and old-school treasures, this iconic fit proves that bold, fun-loving style never goes out of fashion.
REFINED FINDS
MODE CONSIGNMENT
Mode delivers luxe-for-less styling with this effortlessly romantic summer look that pairs soft textures with vintage charm. The outfit features a silky ivory ruched camisole that flatters with delicate straps and a subtle sheen. It’s paired with a high-waisted, flowy floral midi skirt in a warm cream base with red blooms and green foliage –bringing a timeless, feminine vibe. Accessories are kept minimal but chic; a structured brown leather shoulder bag adds sophistication and contrast, while strappy orange block-heel sandals give the outfit a modern pop of color and polish. The ensemble blends casual elegance with nostalgic flair –ideal for everything from coffee dates to garden parties.
Wilfred Top $28
Reformation Skirt $68
Prada Bag $448
Sarto Shoes $38
BULL CITY VINTAGE
’90s Velour Bucket Hat $15
’80s/’90s Gold Tone Belt $22
’80s/’90s Gold Tone
Bracelets $14 each
’90s Silver-Plated
Necklace $56
’90s Spherical
Necklace $22
DISCO
DESIGNS VINTAGE
’60s Polyester Dress $48
’50s/’60s Pink Scarf $8
SHINE ON
Celebrate local brilliance with dazzling pieces – trendy paperclip chain necklaces to sculptural rings – from this year’s best jewelry stores
FINK’S JEWELERS
Eternity Band, $3,125
Classic round diamond design in platinum.
Engagement Ring, $24,425 total 2.01-carat G VS2 emeraldcut diamond ($23,500) on a platinum band ($925).
‘Love in Verona’
Diamond Bangle, $10,500
Crafted in 18-karat gold with a signature romantic motif.
JEWELSMITH
Diamond Earrings, $2,050
Exquisitely hand-engraved in 18-karat yellow gold, these nature-inspired flower earrings add a brilliant sparkle to any look. A part of the Eno Collection, 10% of proceeds support the Eno River Association.
Pearl Ring, $2,180
This modern design features a white freshwater pearl set atop a bar intersected by an omegashaped yellow gold shank, with both scratch and matte finishes accentuating the luster.
Pearl/Chain Necklace, $3,095
An on-trend 18-karat yellow gold paperclip chain meets the elegance of a white Akoya pearl. At 18 inches, it’s perfect to wear solo or layered.
HAMILTON HILL JEWELRY
‘La Gondola’ Citrine Ring, $6,070
Designed by Georg Spreng, this platinum 950 ring features an 18x9mm yellow-green citrine (4.94 carats) with exceptional faceting. A matte finish band contrasts with the high-polish bowl setting.
‘Blub’ Pendant Necklace, $10,495 total This three-part piece includes a 14-karat yellow gold paperclip link chain (18 inches, $3,900), paired with two high-polish 18-karat yellow gold pendants: one with a 12mm smoky quartz (5.47 carats, $2,700) and another with a 10mm pink tourmaline (4.24 carats, $3,895).
‘Milanese’ Diamond Bracelet, $1,460 By designer Humphrey, this stainless steel bracelet features 0.16 carats of round brilliant-cut diamonds (G-H color, VS clarity) in a sleek 30mm width. Best for XS/15 cm wrists.
JOHN DAVID JEWELERS
Necklace, $2,700 14-karat yellow gold with channel-set rubies (1.22 carats) and diamonds (0.22 carat).
Matching Earrings, $1,600 14-karat yellow gold with rubies (0.20 carat) and diamonds (0.22 carat).
Custom Ring, $5,835 Hand-fabricated 18-karat yellow hand-engraved ring with a 1.61-carat pink sapphire.
LIGHT YEARS
Anne Vaughan
Bracelet, $66
Stone collage bracelet in sterling silver –artful and organic.
Hammered
Rectangle Ring, $22
14-karat gold-filled minimalist ring with a textural finish.
Gold Wire
Flower Earrings, $22
Gold-filled earrings by Susie Designs featuring a delicate floral motif.
ABOVE A CUT
Owner Jacob “Bags” Bagley gears up for another fresh cut at Ego Barber Lounge.
Ego Barber Lounge earns the title as one of Durham’s best hair salons by turning everyday haircuts into moments of connection, growth and community
BY ABIGAIL CELORIA
Walking into Ego Barber Lounge is an experience in and of itself. The strip of shops outside melts away the moment you enter the sleek, one-room den. Hollywood-style light fixtures glow above bold mirrors, while 10 throne-like barber chairs line the walls. The close-knit vibe encourages you to relax, connect and do exactly what inspired the name: “Experience a gentleman’s oasis.”
Ego first opened its doors at 3823 Guess Rd., Ste. K, 10 years ago. But owner and operating manager Jacob “Bags” Bagley’s relationship with hair started long before that. He received a set of clippers in high school, and started cutting and styling his own look. He then started offering trims to his friends and football teammates while attending North Carolina Central University.
“When I graduated, I got into banking, and cutting hair was something that I always did, something that I wanted to do,” Jacob says. “I always had dreams of opening a shop, but I never put any effort toward that goal. One day, I get laid off, and I said, ‘OK, maybe this is a time I can go to barber school and start progressing toward that goal.’”
He enrolled at the now-shuttered Park West Barber School and spent three years after graduation gaining experience at barbershops around Durham. His dream turned into a reality in 2015 when he opened Ego.
Jacob says Ego is about more than sharp cuts and stylish decor; he intentionally built a space where clients feel seen, heard and genuinely cared for – where personal interactions that unfold during time in the chair carry as much weight as the cut itself.
Those conversations, he says, are what make up the human factor of a barber’s job. There’s almost always a story behind the cut.
“Are they graduating, or are they in town for a holiday, are they about to have a date, and all of these good things,” he adds, “and then the very next client could be in here for the opposite. They could be getting a haircut for a funeral, they could be on their way to see a parent who they haven’t seen, who might be in hospice. It’s [about] not just having a canned response for every client.” The team at Ego is there to listen.
Beyond the barber chair, Jacob’s also seen how Ego has become a hub for community conversations – about sports, restaurants, life and even business. Clients walk in for a haircut and walk out with a new connection. Mills Whalen, Ego’s youngest barber, says he sees it all the time:
“The atmosphere is definitely different than my last shop,” Mills says. “Everyone’s talking the whole time, joking around.”
Ego operates with a tight, three-man crew. Martin Eastman joined in 2016, almost as long as Ego’s been open. Mills came aboard in 2023 after finishing barber school in Chicago and returning to his hometown of Durham.
Mills admits he felt nervous at first to join such an experienced team. But he’s found Ego to be the perfect place for growth.
“[Jacob and Martin are] always trying to give me chances with their clientele,” Mills says, adding that if someone comes in asking for a style they’re less comfortable with, the two will send them his way. It’s not about competition – each team member is all about helping the others out.
Ego is one of the few barbershops over the years to earn the title of best hair salon in our annual readers’ poll. Jacob says it feels especially rewarding “just to know that somebody recognizes the work that we’re doing. You can be so busy running a business, and it’s easy to not feel recognized or appreciated, so it definitely feels good.”
The acknowledgement, he says, also fuels his larger vision for Ego. He hopes to expand the team, boost marketing efforts, stock hair products for purchase and even offer classes to help train the next generation of barbers.
Above all, he wants Ego to remain what it’s always been: a welcoming, elevated space where every client’s story matters – and every cut does, too.
The crew behind the cuts: Martin Eastman, owner Jacob “Bags” Bagley and Mills Whalen bring skill, style and community to Ego Barber Lounge.
reAdy ROAD TRIP
A 2025 Subaru Forester at Hendrick Subaru Southpoint. “The single most important thing that anyone can do is stay up with all your maintenance services and be sure that you have your vehicle inspected by a factory-trained technician, no matter what brand you drive,” says service manager Michael Milligan. “Safety is always No. 1; never make any compromises.”
Whether you’re cruising to the coast or meandering through the mountains, getting your car road trip ready is essential to avoid breakdowns, keep your cool and make the most of your miles. We asked local experts – voted Best of Durham by our readers – what every driver should do before hitting the highway. Here’s what they said:
Pre-Trip Musts
“Before heading out on a summer road trip, we recommend checking tire pressure and tread, testing the battery, inspecting the brakes and ensuring all lights (including brake and turn signals) are working,” says Stephen Gade, owner of Wasp Automotive. “It’s also important to check fluid levels and inspect belts and hoses for wear or cracks –heat can make small issues worse quickly.”
Giselle Diaz of Mark Jacobson Toyota keeps it simple: “Check the tires, fluids, wipers and brakes.” Wipers can often be overlooked, but are critical if a major thunderstorm pops up along your route.
Michael Milligan, service manager at Hendrick Subaru Southpoint, emphasizes tire and fluid checks as well – don’t forget the spare. “If the miles for the trip exceed the remainder of miles to the next service,” he says, “the service should be done prior to the trip.”
Tire Talk
Experts agree: Tire care is crucial. Rotate every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, “and wilderness models should have a five-tire rotation,” Michael says. “Tires need to be replaced when the tread depth is 3mm or less. If going on [a] long trip, it is recommended that the tires have 4/32nds of tread or more.”
“Tire pressures should be checked and adjusted every few weeks due to temperature fluctuations,” says Marianne Massey of Massey Brothers Automotive.
Brake Check
“If your car pulls to one side, the brake pedal feels soft, or you notice longer stopping distances, it’s time for a brake inspection,” Stephen says. Marianne adds that the brakes need to be checked when you notice “any noises and/or vibrations while braking, a squealing noise when not braking and when any brake indicator lights illuminate.”
Fluids + Filters
The basics to check? Coolant, engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid and windshield washer fluid. “Summer heat puts extra stress on your cooling and steering systems,” Stephen notes. Michael also recommends replacing your cabin air filter post-pollen season.
Beat the Heat
Air conditioning performance testing is a must, especially in extreme heat, Michael says. At Wasp Automotive, they also suggest inspecting wiper blades, which can crack in the heat, and replacing batteries if they’re more than a few years old. Overheating engines and failed ACs are common issues this time of year.
Emergency Essentials
An emergency kit should include jumper cables, a flashlight, tire inflator and pressure gauge, bottled water and a first-aid kit. “You should keep a spare tire with the tools to change it, a flashlight, a hazard triangle or warning device ... and spare fluids,” Marianne says. Michael says Subaru offers an emergency roadside kit that has jumper cables, a first-aid kit, flashlight, emergency window reflector and poncho in case of wet weather; Stephen recommends a phone charger or power bank, a portable fan or sunshade for extra heat protection, sunscreen and a hat.
Avoiding Breakdowns
“The single most important thing that anyone can do is stay up with all your maintenance services,” Michael says. Marianne agrees: “A vehicle that is regularly maintained and serviced by a reputable mechanic is the best way to avoid having your vehicle break down.”
Stay Fresh and Clean
Pre- and post-trip car washes do more than make your ride look good. “The heat and UV from the intense summer sun will start the oxidation process on your car’s finish,” says Mike Notte of Edge Express Car Wash. “Regular washing will help keep contaminants off your car.” His go-to before a trip? A full-service graphene wash for UV and grime protection. “Then I wash it again after the trip to get the bugs, road grime and salt from the ocean air off my car,” he adds.
Wax On, And On Again
“Waxing will add an extra layer of protection to your car’s clear coat, helping to mitigate the UV damage from the sun and preventing bugs and other contaminants from eating into the finish,” Mike shares. “The best time to wax your car in the Carolinas is right after pollen season before the summer sun gets intense (May through early June), and again in late fall, early winter (November to early December) to protect against road contaminants and to keep the car on a six-month wax cycle.”
Interior Matters
“All-weather mats really make a big difference in containing messes,” Mike advises. “Keep some paper towels or baby wipes on hand to clean up messes right when they happen.” And for pet parents? A canvas seat cover and a temporary gate go a long way.
The Final Word
“Preventive maintenance is key,” Stephen says. “Address small issues early – what seems minor in town could become a major inconvenience on the road.”
At CQC Home, we specialize in transforming homes with creativity, craftsmanship, and precision. From custom kitchens to whole home renovations, additions, and ADUs, our expert team delivers. With our turnkey design-build approach, we seamlessly manage every detail—from the first sketch to the final reveal.
Schedule Your Personalized Consultation Today at cqchome.com or call 919.971.5119.
PORCH WITH PURPOSE
THE VISION
screened-in addition to a 1940s home in the Rockwood neighborhood that creates a unique, intimate and year-round entertaining space that blends with the home’s vintage style and evokes the owners’ New Orleans roots.
HOW THEY DID IT
The team at Little Corner Construction created a functional and stylish space that includes several features to support year-round use, like a vent-free fireplace for chilly winters, a fan dropped from the high ceiling for summer cooling and generous overhangs for shade and rain protection. The cooperative, which was named one of the best residential builders and best kitchen designers by our readers, implemented clever design solutions to seamlessly connect the existing chimney and deck on the back of the house. The porch also offers garden views, which was important for the plant-loving homeowners who wanted to keep an eye on their kids. Beautiful materials and finishes – including a copper standing seam roof, a stained wood Dutch door, sapele wood double doors, vintage light fixtures and a stucco chimney with a travertine stone tile hearth – bring this project to life, with architect Katie Dyer and tiler Paragon Tile helping to realize the vision.
STANDOUT FEATURE
The custom chimney, which anchors the space and brings together oldhome charm with thoughtful, lasting design.
NOW TRENDING
Homeowners are spending more time at home and seek outdoor spaces adequate for comfortably hosting and entertaining more than just their immediate families. There’s also a growing demand for elevated features like saunas, fireplaces and other amenities that enhance both relaxation and year-round use.
CORNER SANCTUARY
THE VISION
Anew build for a modern, lifestyle-driven family home on a 1-acre corner lot in the Hope Valley Farms neighborhood. The homeowner aimed to balance contemporary design with sensitivity to the surrounding 1920s-era colonial and Tudor revival architecture.
HOW THEY DID IT
Surface 678, one of our readers’ favorite landscape architects, collaborated closely with Louis Cherry Architecture from the earliest
PHOTO BY SCOTT VAN MANEN
stages of design to shape a site-sensitive landscape that would elevate the experience of a modern home while respecting its traditional neighborhood setting. The lot, situated 14 feet above a busy corner, presented both an opportunity for seclusion and a challenge in grading. The team used low retaining walls to create a private raised platform for outdoor living that buffers the home from the street and defines distinct zones for socializing, relaxing and recreation.
Exposed aggregate concrete and granite pavers signal one's arrival into the entry court, while an architectural wall provides subtle screening from the adjoining street and helps with the indoor-outdoor flow.
A sleek deck with a modern fire pit expands the home’s living area beyond the sliding glass doors of the kitchen and living room into the landscape, and a 50-foot lap pool with an infinity edge at the opposite end of the home establishes a workout zone,
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ART HOWARD PHOTOGRAPHY
offering both striking visuals and functional design. The garden path winds through the site, illuminating bedrooms with natural light and drawing residents outdoors into a landscape defined by boulders juxtaposed with soft, native grasses, shrubs, perennials and trees that minimize the need for watering and maintenance. Finally, overhead canopies connect the home’s structures and invite fluid movement among indoor and outdoor spaces. The result is a meticulously crafted landscape that reflects the client’s appreciation for precision and restraint, combining refined materials with thoughtful grading, drainage and planting design. The final layout is both elegant and enduring, offering a landscape that feels rooted in its surroundings while supporting everyday functionality, privacy and connection to nature.
STANDOUT FEATURE
The stone pathways that wind through the site and gardens are a special and discreet feature that reveal a diverse and rich planting palette as well as a rain garden visible from the home’s interior living room.
NOW TRENDING
Surface 678 observes a growing emphasis on extending livable space outdoors, with clients increasingly seeking designs that support health and wellness in personalized ways. They expect landscapes to offer meaningful value beyond curb appeal, enhancing daily life through thoughtful, functional design.
OPEN-AIR LIVING
THE VISION
Anew, single-family home construction in the Colvard Farms neighborhood where the homeowners could raise their family, host both personal and professional gatherings, connect with neighbors and retreat into private, relaxing spaces. Central to their wishes was a strong sense of indoor-outdoor connectivity and an open, fluid experience when moving throughout the home.
HOW THEY DID IT
The team at Best of Durham award-winning architect Mint Architecture & Design considered indoor and outdoor spaces equally when designing a home to support a dynamic family lifestyle. The H-shaped layout of the house creates two distinct outdoor zones: a
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF HYPERBASE MEDIA
welcoming covered front porch that fosters neighborhood connection, and a private rear porch retreat with its own lounging, dining and kitchen areas. The latter spaces are an extension of the family room thanks to a 20-foot sliding glass door, and a grassy lawn beyond the porch is ideal for play and relaxation. Upstairs roof decks – one for the children and guests and another secluded off the primary suite – offer elevated spots to unwind, complete with sunset views and a pergola for filtered shade. Principal Architect Julie Scotchie Cohoon says window placement is everything, providing the opportunity to maximize natural lighting and ventilation while also directing attention to the outdoors. “My clients felt equally as ambitious as I did about transparency in the design – to always be connected to an outside view and oriented to their property no matter where they are in their home.” She collaborated with landscape designer Casey Collins and landscape installer Tim Lever to create a courtyard with a low granite fieldstone wall between the front porch and the sidewalk and a green privacy screen that softens the home’s street-facing exposure. The team selected durable materials like fiber cement siding and a recycled metal roof for longevity and aesthetics, reflecting a thoughtful approach to both sustainability and performance.
STANDOUT FEATURE
The H-shaped layout establishes multiple outdoor zones tailored to a family’s varied needs, all seamlessly connected to the main living areas by an expansive sliding glass door.
NOW TRENDING
Julie has observed that the pandemic sparked a lasting shift in how people value outdoor living, prompting a growing demand for functional, beautiful spaces with features like retractable screens, skylights, covered porches and fireplaces that allow for year-round enjoyment and truly feel like an extension of the home. After all, “Is there anything cozier than sitting outside in front of a fire?” Julie says.
SERENE BY DESIGN
THE VISION
A$15,000 xeriscape garden in the side courtyard and front yard of a home in The Courtyards at Andrews Chapel neighborhood. The client, a Colorado transplant, envisioned an alpine-inspired outdoor space that evoked the natural beauty of the western state. They were drawn to sensory elements – subtle color palettes, bird-attracting plants and the calming sound of water – to create a serene, mountain-like retreat.
HOW THEY DID IT
One of Durham’s best landscape design firms, Garden Environments, transformed the narrow courtyard and HOA-regulated front yard into a peaceful, low-maintenance escape that mimicked a mountainous ecosystem but used North Carolina native, drought-tolerant plantings. This project centered on creating a deeply personal, sensory-rich and
transportive environment that fosters a deep connection to nature, prioritizing atmosphere and experience over traditional patio features and functions like leisure or recreation. Layered, multicolored and textured gravel and stone add depth and dimension, while a bubbling boulder fountain and grasses adds sound and movement. A striking crevice garden uses space efficiently as both a sculpture and sustainable design – crafted from recycled materials and requiring virtually no upkeep. Thoughtful plant placement, environmental sensitivity and creative use of tight spaces reflect the firm’s mission to design landscapes that are both meaningful and ecologically beneficial.
STANDOUT FEATURE
The crevice garden showcases how small, overlooked spaces can transform into living works of art using recycled stone and low-maintenance plantings for yearround interest.
NOW TRENDING
Landscape designer Aurora Cloutier and operational assistant Cassandra Bridges note a growing awareness of the environmental downsides of traditional lawns and a rising interest in replacing or reducing them with native plant landscaping, such as pollinator gardens and pocket prairie meadows. They also point out that, as development increases in community-centered areas, private outdoor space is becoming more limited, prompting homeowners to find creative ways to transform small areas into personal slices of nature. Garden Environments specializes in retreats of all shapes and sizes, from stonebased, xeriscape projects like this one, to lush and colorful greenspaces.
SMART, STYLISH SIMPLICITY
THE VISION
A
paver patio and sitting wall in the 55-and-older Fendol Farms community. The homeowners wanted a functional area that optimized their limited backyard space while staying within the neighborhood’s impervious surface limits and boosting the curb appeal of their highly visible corner lot.
HOW THEY DID IT
The team at Carolina Garden Company – one of our readers’ favorite landscapers, led by husband-and-wife owners Brad Cook and Shelley Cook – transformed a tight backyard space into a polished, practical outdoor oasis that met aesthetic and regulatory requirements. They designed a clean, low-maintenance paver patio that maximized usability without overwhelming the space, incorporating a built-in wall to
GRANT GROUP
architecture
Group Architecture is a Durham-based residential architecture firm specializing in client-centered, sustainable design for new construction, additions and renovations.
Photos by Marilyn Peryer
PHOTO COURTESY OF GARDEN ENVIRONMENTS
provide ample seating, reducing the need for additional furniture that might clutter the footprint. The project cost around $10,000. The team places importance on tailoring each project to a client’s lifestyle, especially in 55-and-older communities where ease of use and long-term care are essential. Shelley uses her expertise as NCNLA Certified Plant Professional to carefully select and precisely place drought-tolerant plantings, ensuring beauty with minimal upkeep. Shelley and Brad also strive to educate their clients on annual landscaping maintenance so their designs continue to flourish and bring enjoyment for years to come. They install every hardscape element “by the book,” using only durable, high-quality materials, reflecting a commitment to longevity and sustainability.
STANDOUT FEATURE
The concrete pavers that make up the patio come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, offering maximum flexibility to tailor each design to a client’s unique style, preferences and site-specific constraints.
Shelley and Brad note that many clients desire elevated outdoor spaces but believe they can’t afford their dream yard. They encourage clients to make improvements in stages and even map out their long-term vision so they can add elements piecemeal with future plans in mind.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CAROLINA GARDEN COMPANY
COURTYARD CONNECTION
THE
Arenovation of an existing 1,200-square-foot home, including a 200-square-foot living room addition and a central courtyard space in a quiet Durham neighborhood.
HOW THEY DID IT
The team at Meadows Architecture, led by principal architect Jonathan Meadows, transformed a compact property into a serene retreat. A central courtyard, framed by a wraparound porch, is both a gathering space and an architectural anchor, with integrated planters and existing pavers creating an inviting outdoor room. Meadows selected natural wood siding to harmonize with the surrounding pine trees. Smart reuse of an existing carport structure allowed for the addition of a light-filled living room, creating a nature-oriented space.
NOW TRENDING
Homeowners are increasingly demanding sustainability in design, which Jonathan says can mean many things. For Meadows Architecture, which was named one of the best architecture firms in Durham, sustainability centers on energy efficiency, environmental harmony and the use of local materials and artisans.
PHOTO COURTESY OF MEADOWS ARCHITECTURE
MORE MUSEUM THAN A
Inside the award-winning historic hub where Pauli Murray’s spirit still guides the fight for justice
auli Murray Center for History and Social Justice Executive Director
Angela Thorpe Mason is the steward of a site both deeply historic and powerfully relevant as a hub for activism, dialogue and community connection. In this interview, she reflects on the organization’s recent recognition, speaks to the importance of grounding visitors in Pauli Murray’s humanity and addresses the challenges of navigating federal disinvestment.
*responses have been edited for length and clarity
How would you describe the Pauli Murray Center and its mission for readers who may be unfamiliar?* [Its] mission is to uplift the life and legacy of the Rev. Pauli Murray to address enduring inequities today. We are anchored in the childhood home of the civil rights activist, feminist, human rights activist, author, poet and theologian. I would describe our space as a sacred historical space but also an active center for history and social justice. We’re not a traditional house museum. We use this space to ground people in Pauli Murray’s
Angela Thorpe Mason shares how the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice continues to carry the historic figure’s legacy forward – from community-serving programming to educational initiatives – and issues a call to action rooted in courage, joy and truth-telling.
activist legacy and framework in order to give them tools to move social justice work forward in their communities today.
Pauli Murray’s legacy touches on so many aspects of justice and identity. How does the center work to reflect the complexity and intersectionality of their life and work? When people move through this space, we guide them through four themes: identity, activism, love and joy. It’s really important for people to understand that, though we revere Pauli Murray, they were not a deity. They’re an everyday person, and they were raised in this home in Durham. You don’t get Pauli Murray without their family, you don’t get Pauli Murray the activist without them being raised in Jim Crow Durham, you also don’t get Pauli Murray without
those rich themes that I mentioned. Our work to connect people thoughtfully to the complexities of Pauli Murray’s identity is one of those bridge-building tools. Pauli Murray lived in between; there were a lot of spaces they did not fit into, which really guided their work to develop a world where everybody belonged and everybody could express wholeness in their fullness of humanity.
Pauli Murray’s activism took a lot of different shapes over the course of a lifetime. It reminds us that we can approach activism today in a lot of different ways. Pauli Murray’s day job was an attorney, and they used legal theory as activism. They used writing and creativity as activism. They used faith and spiritual practice as activism. Pauli Murray gives us a menu of ways to contribute to society.
Pauli Murray did not exist or work in a vacuum. Pauli was deeply grounded in community. They had a beautiful relationship with their family, partners, best friends. We think it’s really important to ground people in that reality and help people understand that love and joy are some of what carries us through as humans and everyday people. Pauli was a dog parent, loved beer, smoking a pipe, going to the movies. Pauli is human, and we should feel invited to be, too. I think sometimes that feels difficult when it seems like the world is collapsing in around us, but Pauli Murray, too, lived [during] a period of time [when] it seemed like the world was collapsing in on them, and they still connected to their humanity. We should, too. Those are the stories that we ground people in to enliven that mission and give people access to tools that Pauli Murray also used.
“[Pauli] did not stop, they did not capitulate or fall into despair,” Angela says. “So I am moving forward in the way ancestor Pauli is guiding me to do in this moment.”
What do you think makes this museum unique – not just in Durham, but nationally? Pauli Murray lived at more than 50 addresses during the course of their lifetime, and this is one of the only ones that still stands. Furthermore, this is the space and place that raised Pauli and where their earliest concepts around democracy, justice, equity, wholeness and humanity were seeded. Those ideas were shaped by Pauli Murray’s family members, specifically their grandfather. This is quite literally the only place in the world where you can connect to Pauli Murray’s origin story.
How did it feel to be named one of the best museums in this year’s Best of Durham poll? It’s really exciting, especially when you consider we opened our doors to the community last September, and it took more than a decade to get there. We’re eagerly leaning into our new identity as an open space for community. It’s beautiful that, in that newness, people not only trust us but are also celebrating what we’re offering. It’s a signal that we’re doing something right, and that this place matters, our work matters. Being able to stand firm in a place that tells the truth is phenomenal. I’m glad people are responsive to that.
The center has become a space not just for history but also for dialogue and action. Can you speak to how you see it functioning as both a museum and a catalyst for social change? We have a couple of initiatives that really illuminate how we contribute to contemporary social justice work. Quarterly, we partner with the North Carolina Bar Foundation to host name- and gender-marker-change clinics in this space. Pauli Murray’s legacy –which means [not only] the ways that they navigated gender identity but also their work as an attorney – is a marriage of history and social justice. [It’s] being able to pull that thread forward and connect members of our LGBTQIA+ community to a service that’s lifeaffirming, life-changing and life-preserving.
We also work closely with educators through our Pauli Murray Social Justice Teaching Fellowship to support them in applying equity- and justice-centered teaching pedagogies in a way that allows them to retain their jobs in the state of North Carolina, because some educators are at risk for teaching stories like Pauli Murray’s.
How do you approach issues like historical erasure and representation in your exhibits and programming? By simply telling the truth. We pride ourselves on being memory keepers, memory workers and truth tellers. Because we’re an independent nonprofit, I think we’re able to do that work well and expansively without significant limitations. The story that we tell of Pauli – the story that you see in the exhibition – is simply the truth, and we’ve never been compelled to do anything otherwise.
In our efforts to be truth tellers, we’re certainly not naive. We’re thoughtful about the ways in which we engage with at-risk populations in our community, whether that be members of the LGBTQIA+ community or educators. We give people strategy so that they, too, can be truth-tellers in a way that’s thoughtful and responsive to the current reality.
What are some current or upcoming programs, exhibits or events that you’re particularly excited about? Pauli Murray was a doting dog parent, so we recently had a benefit dog walk where we invited people to connect with that piece of Pauli [by walking] around [to] learn more about this historically Black, historically working-class neighborhood. We’ll do that again next year. I am excited for ongoing tours at the PMC. We’re still welcoming a lot of people in for the first time, and I strongly encourage folks to sign up for a guided or self-guided tour. Every year we have the annual Pauli Murray pilgrimage, where we invite people to traverse to sites that were significant to Pauli Murray’s childhood and formative years here in Durham. At each stop on that pilgrimage, they learn a little bit more about Pauli, local Black history in Durham, and how these spaces contributed to Pauli’s faith practice. We [also] have an animated miniseries coming out on Pauli Murray’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement that is designed primarily for fifth through eighth graders, but I think is going to be super compelling for everybody.
Are there other ways that community members can get involved or support the center’s work? We have a growing online presence, so following us on social media is really key, and also [following us] via our newsletter. We have a lot of resources available online – everything from educational curriculum to biographical information about Pauli [to] a virtual tour. If Pauli Murray is somebody who is compelling to you, if the work the PMC is doing
feels attractive, we have a lot of [volunteer] opportunities. That can be something as simple as setting up for something like a dog walk event or guiding people through this space.
What do you think Pauli Murray would make of this space today? It’s really interesting – when Pauli Murray [was] an elder, they [did] an interview with then budding, now prolific historian, Genna Rae McNeil. [Pauli] said they [didn’t] think they’d been successful on all of their – they called [them] little – campaigns for social justice. I think, on its face, that is quite literally true. But, here we are, sitting in Pauli Murray’s childhood home, the space that shaped the activist who died thinking they failed. That is powerful. That is profound. I think Pauli Murray would be tickled and surprised that a space like this existed in their honor. I think that Pauli would be humbled as well that their modest childhood home now stands as a testament to the power and possibility of how history can help us think transformatively about social justice work today. I think Pauli would also caution us to not get distracted in our work to commemorate them and their legacy. They would want us to remember that the work does not stop here, and part of commemorating them requires that we continue to act. It’s profound to consider that Pauli got to a place [where] they thought they failed. But, they understood that they weren’t going to see what they were building. How do we get comfortable with just doing something for now, understanding that we may not see the fruit of it? That’s hard for us as microwave-instant-gratification people, but that is part of Pauli’s lesson.
Thanks for Voting Our Collective of Trauma Informed Therapists “Best of Durham” Again!
What was your first reaction when you received the notice that the Institute of Museum and Library Services grant had been terminated? I frankly was not surprised. My reaction was overall agitation. I had a sense that something was coming. It was specifically the language in the notice that was agitating.
How do you interpret that language – that the grant ‘no longer serves the interests of the United States’? Honestly, it’s not my place to interpret that language. When I read it, my gut instinct is simply to tell the truth in the face of a lie. It is an absurd lie. If we understand who Pauli Murray was – [that] their mission [was] to dismantle race-based and sex-based discrimination in the United States, to make that real so that everybody could live in this country unoppressed – if that is not American, I don’t know what is. What Pauli Murray did is quite literally the inverse of the statement that was made in that letter.
How does your dedication to highlighting Pauli Murray’s work shape your response to this event? What can we learn from their legacy when we’re faced with discrimination and censorship? In other words, how would Pauli Murray respond? Pauli Murray teaches us so much. I am a public historian by training, which means I ground very deeply in studying Pauli. I research Pauli, I read [their] writings, and [I] have the great fortune of stewarding this physical space. I find myself in deep relationship with ancestor Pauli. This relationship has helped me to understand that Pauli Murray, though they got angry, frustrated, exhausted, exasperated [and] agitated, they simply were not somebody who gave into despair. We can feel our feelings, but despair shall not swallow us whole. That is not how Pauli moved through the world. Pauli felt their feelings and kept going. [They] were courageous enough to be vocal, to fight whatever those fights required. Our work won’t stop, and it is my job to find ways to continue our work, to ensure that we are not deterred from telling the truth, to have enough courage to be vocal and say that this disinvestment is not right, and yet, we’re going to continue to move forward. I, too, have been angry, exasperated, tired – but I’m using that as fuel to move forward, because that is what Pauli Murray would do.
Are You Ready For A Change?
I think it’s really important to recognize that what the [Pauli Murray] Center is experiencing is part of a broader pattern of federal disinvestment happening nationally. That is by design. There is an active effort to transform how we understand American history – to erase the contributions of Black people, queer people, women and other marginalized groups. As a historian, this is one of the first things that we always see when leaders are building oppressive societies. It is very intentional, because our history gets at the very heart of our identities and gets to the heart of our education system and how we see ourselves as citizens in this nation. That’s why we seek to tell the truth, and why I’m committed to telling the truth here, because this experiment shall not succeed. – as told to Sharon Kinsella
Scan the QR code for our full conversation with Angela.
ART AFTER DARK
Durham’s nightlife, in focus
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY CORNELL WATSON
LIVE & LOCAL
A cornerstone of Durham’s music scene, Brett Chambers’ Open Mic night at The Blue Note Grill keeps the spotlight on area talent. Seasoned musicians, rising vocalists and first-time performers alike step up to the mic every Wednesday evening to share everything from blues and jazz to folk and spoken word, with a full backline provided. The event has maintained its signature mix of casual camaraderie and professional polish for nearly 30 years, with Brett’s welcoming presence setting the tone. Against the backdrop of smoky barbecue and cold drafts, this open mic offers more than a stage – it gives voice to the Bull City’s creative spirit.
LIVE & LOCAL
Brett Chambers set the stage for a night of raw talent and real connection at this recent open mic.
STAGE PRESENCE
Nationally acclaimed R&B artist Kevin Ross brought silky vocals and smooth melodies to the intimate stage of Missy Lane’s Assembly Room. The show delivered a night of soul-stirring notes and magnetic energy. Missy Lane’s showroom proved the perfect backdrop for the singer-songwriter’s velvety performance – offering concertgoers plush seating, curated cocktails and an unmatched vibe, blending star power with the intimacy of a local lounge.
Color My World
Rings by Georg Spreng
DANCE FLOOR DREAMS
Durham’s beloved Black queer DJ collective, The Conjure, threw a high-energy celebration at The Pinhook in April to mark eight years of electrifying dance floors and creating safe, affirming spaces. The showcase brought the crew, including DJ Gemynii (pictured right), back to where it all began for a night pulsing with bounce, Afrobeats, hip-hop and deep, unfiltered joy. The $8 entry paid homage to the milestone, with a sliding scale that emphasized accessibility and mutual care. Beyond the beats, the night reflected The Conjure’s broader mission: supporting the Black trans community, uplifting new talent and championing Black queer greatness, one unforgettable party at a time.
Up to Date & Down to Earth
Dr. Lei Cao, Dr. Sutasinee Liu
2025
DANCE FLOOR DREAMS
The Conjure turned up the volume at The Pinhook, honoring their roots with a packed night of sound, self-expression and collective celebration.
NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
Art meets atmosphere at 21c Museum Hotel. This evening drew a mix of guests and locals who wandered through “Refuge: Needing, Seeking, Creating Shelter,” the hotel’s rotating contemporary art exhibit that ran through May, before settling into the moody glow of Counting House for cocktails and conversation. The juxtaposition of curated visual storytelling and high-end hospitality create a sensory experience that is both thought-provoking and effortlessly chic. Visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a space where creativity is always on display, whether lounging beneath large-scale installations in the gallery spaces or chatting over a craft drink at the bar.
Cheeni's
2025 WINNERS
Place
Guglhupf
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Steak
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At Patrick Law, PLLC, we’re honored to have been named among the Best of Durham for four consecutive years—a reflection of the trust our clients place in us. Led by Founder & Attorney Cheri Patrick, Senior Associate Ethan Timmins, Associate Willis Smith, III, and with the support of our skilled legal team, we offer thorough, compassionate legal solutions in:
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Your trust fuels our dedication to safeguarding what matters most your family, your future, and your peace of mind.
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Sushi
Koi Sushi & Hibachi
M Sushi
Shiki Sushi Asian Bistro
Sushi Love
Indian Food
Cheeni
Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar
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Viceroy
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Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken
Boricua Soul
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Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas
Greek/Mediterranean Food
Bleu Olive Mediterranean Bistro
Mediterranean Grill & Grocery
Neomonde Mediterranean
Nikos
Italian Food
Cucciolo Osteria
Gocciolina
Mothers & Sons Trattoria
Pulcinella’s Italian Restaurant
Pizza
Hutchins Garage
Pie Pushers
Pizzeria Toro
Randy’s Pizza
Wings
Bralie’s Sports Bar & Grill
Chicken Bee
Heavenly Buffaloes
Wingstop
Frozen Treats
Goodberry’s Frozen Custard
LocoPops
The Parlour
Two Roosters Ice Cream
Kid-Friendly Restaurant
Bull City Burger and Brewery
Elmo’s Diner
Lakewood Social
Makus Empanadas
Food Truck
Bulkogi Korean BBQ
Chirba Chirba Dumpling
El Jefecito
Gussy’s Sister Liu’s Kitchen
Chef
Oscar Diaz, Aaktun, Little Bull & TaTaco
Shawn Holland, Sophisticated Catering and Event Planning
Matt Kelly, Nanas
David Lopez, Atomic Clock Brewing Co.
Ricky Moore, Saltbox Seafood Joint
Restaurant Catering
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Makus Empanadas
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Southern Harvest Hospitality Group
Triangle Catering
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
Mocktails
Alley Twenty Six
Coupe & Stein Champagne Bar
Lakewood Social
The Velvet Hippo
Cocktails
Alley Twenty Six
Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge
Kingfisher
The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge
Craft Alcoholic Beverages
Bull City Ciderworks
Durham Distillery – Conniption
Ment Beverage Co.
– Honeygirl Meadery
Mystic Farm & Distillery
– Mystic Bourbon Liqueur
Wine Shop
Hope Valley Wine & Beverage
LouElla Wine, Beer & Beverage
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Wine Authorities
Wine Selection at a Bar or Restaurant
Killer Queen Wine Bar
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Atomic Clock Brewing Co.
Fullsteam
The Glass Jug Beer Lab
Hi-Wire Brewing
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Beer Study
The Glass Jug Beer Lab
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Total Wine & More
Ment Beverage Co. owner Robby Battle says Honeygirl Meadery, named a readers’ favorite craft alcoholic beverage, is the star brand for the company, which moved to a new location at American Tobacco Campus last year.
RETAIL
Bright Black owner
Tiffany Griffin has built her candle company around designing specific aromas that evoke Black narratives and recollections.
Pet
A few precious pups strike a pose at Camp Bow Wow – North Durham, one of the Bull City's favorite places to board their pets. Tail wags guaranteed.
PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN
Young students Sofia Turner, Greta Chleboun and Eleanor Campbell prance around one of our readers' favorite dance studios, Barriskill Dance Theatre School. Its summer camp programs were also named among the best in Durham.
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Anthony F. Armento, CPA, PC
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Thomas, Judy & Tucker, PA
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Fidelity Investments
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Bryan Wylie, Northwestern Mutual
Lawyer
Dori J. Dixon, Southpoint Estate Planning
Ellis Family Law
The Law Office of Julian M. Hall
Patrick Law, PLLC
Child Care
Butterfly Kisses Academy
Duke Memorial Weekday School
Kidz Kamp Drop In Care
Primary Colors Early Learning Center
Summer Camp
Barriskill Dance Theatre School
Hollow Rock Racquet & Swim Club
Museum of Life and Science
Schoolhouse of Wonder
Hotel/Bed and Breakfast
21c Museum Hotel
Arrowhead Inn Bed & Breakfast
The Durham Hotel
Morehead Manor Bed & Breakfast
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
Event Planner
Events by Rebs
Glitz N Glam Events NC
Imagery Events
Socialite Events
Event Rental Company
American Party Rentals
Best Tents & Events
Hamer’s Props & Party
Marsh’s Rentals
Professional Photographer
Fifty Two Hundred Photo
Nikia Williams Photography
Ripptowne Photography
Shoot with Bliss Photography
Videographer
Big Dog Little Bed Productions
Fifty Two Hundred Photo
Little Light Creative
Press Record Media
Tattoo Shop
Creative Tattoo Service
Dogstar Tattoo Company
Sacred Mandala Studio
Welcome Tattoo
Sports Club
Durham Queer Sports
Forge Fencing
Hollow Rock Racquet & Swim Club
United Thai Boxing & MMA
Place to Get in Shape
The BodyGames Center
Burn Boot Camp South Durham
Duke Health & Fitness Center
Neighborhood Barre Durham
Virge Yoga
Yoga/Pilates/Barre Center
InsideOut Body Therapies
Neighborhood Barre Durham
Virge Yoga
Yoga Off East
Hair Salon
Bella Trio Salon + Spa
Ego Barber Lounge
Posh The Salon
Wavelengths Salon
Willow & Fern Co.
Nail Salon
Bliss Nail Bar
H2O Hair Salon and Spa
Lee Spa Nails
Posh Nail Spa
Shine Brighter
*All results are listed in alphabetical order
**The presence of five or more winners is the result of a tie
Spa
Auroraflow
Beem Light Sauna Durham
Bella Trio Salon + Spa
The Retreat
Dermatologist
Dr. Garrett S. Bressler
Dr. Amy Stein Drumheller, Regional Dermatology of Durham
Dr. Brooke Jackson, Skin Wellness Dermatology Associates
Dr. Jeffrey Scales, North Carolina Center for Dermatology
Acupuncturist
Auroraflow
Austin Dixon Acupuncture at Practice Space
New Orchard Wellness
Janet Shaffer, Duke Integrative Medicine Center
Massage Therapy
Auroraflow
Duke Integrative Medicine Center
Fuzion Professional Massage Therapy Massage for Pain Relief
Therapist
Duke Integrative Medicine Center
Insight Counseling Center PLLC
North Carolina Therapy Professionals PLLC
Radical Healing
Waypoint Counseling & Maternal Wellness
Audiologist
Better Hearing Rehabilitation Center
Duke Speech Pathology and Audiology Clinic
Hearing Health Care Services
North Carolina Eye, Ear, Nose & Throat
Chiropractor
Dr. Valentina Degiovanni, Bella Vita Chiropractic
Dr. David Martin, Precision Chiropractic
Dr. Erick Peterson, Peterson Chiropractic University Chiropractic
Cosmetic/Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Dane Barrett, Duke Aesthetic Center
Gunn Plastic Surgery Center
Dr. Ronald E. Riefkohl
Dr. Julie Ann Woodward, Duke Aesthetic Center
Optometrist/Ophthalmologist
Academy Eye Associates
Duke Eye Center
Dr. Tonica Johnson, Eye Physicians & Surgeons of Durham
Rosenstein Vision Center
General Dentistry
Dr. Bill Argersinger, DurhamDDS
Bull City Smiles
Beyond Dental
Croasdaile Dental Arts
Dr. Scott Donner
BridgePoint General Contracting President Shelley McPhatter leads one of the best commercial building companies in Durham.
Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Jeffrey S. Jelic, Jelic Center
Dr. Andrew T. Ruvo, Oral & Maxillofacial
Surgery Associates
Dr. Debra M. Sacco, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates
Dr. Adam D. Serlo, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery Associates
Orthodontist
Dr. Gavin Heymann, Smith & Heymann Orthodontics
King Orthodontics
Mol Orthodontics
Dr. J. Dempsey Smith, Smith & Heymann Orthodontics
Dr. Michael J. Wilson, Wilson Orthodontics
Endodontist
Dr. Linda G. Levin, Levin Endodontics
Dr. A.K. Bobby Mallik
Dr. Roger A. McDougal, McDougal Endodontics
Ritter Endodontics
Pediatric Dentist
Dr. Robert Christensen, Durham Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Dr. Jenny Citineni, Smile First Dental
Dr. Amy C. Davidian, Southpoint Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Martha Ann Keels, Duke Street Pediatric Dentistry
Prosthodontist
Dr. Geoffrey R. Cunningham, Durham Prosthodontics
Dr. R. Kyle Gazdeck, Durham Prosthodontics
Dr. Mark S. Scurria, Triangle Restoration Dentistry
Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
Periodontist
Dr. Ellie Bash
Periodontics and Dental Implants of North Carolina
Dr. Samantha Robles
Tar Heel Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
HOME & GARDEN
Real Estate Agent
Liz Dean, Inhabit Real Estate
Lisa Ellis, Lisa Ellis & Company, Real Estate by Design
Amy Gretenstein, The Boone Team at Real Estate by Design
Carl Johnson, Carl Johnson Real Estate
Real Estate Company
Inhabit Real Estate
Nest Realty
Urban Durham Realty
West & Woodall Real Estate
Commercial Builder
BridgePoint General Contracting
CT Wilson Construction
Gateway Building Company
LeChase
Residential Builder
BuildSense
CoCreations Construction & Design
CQC Home
Little Corner Construction
Architect
BuildSense
Grant Group Architecture
Meadows Architecture
Mint Architecture + Design
Kitchen Design
CQC Home
The Kitchen Specialist
Little Corner Construction
Little Mangum Studio
Interior Design
12th State Design Co.
Dolce Design Co.
Little Mangum Studio
Max Hugo Interior Design
Landscaper
Carolina Garden Company
For Garden’s Sake
Lawns by Carlito
TROSA Lawn Care
Landscape Architect & Designer
For Garden’s Sake
Garden Environments
Surface 678
TMTLA Associates
Roofer
Accurate Renovations
Alpine Roofing
Baker Roofing Company
Pickard Roofing Company
Painting Company
Brush Up Painting
Gonzalez Painters & Contractors Inc.
Hansell Painting Co.
Zarazua Painting
HVAC Repair
Air Innovations Heating & Cooling LLC
Alternative Aire
JD Service Now
Streamline Services Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical
Electrician
Braco Electric Company
JD Service Now
Streamline Services Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical
Volt Doctors
Plumber
Brown Brothers Plumbing and Heating Company
Greene Hunt Inc.
JD Service Now
HammerStruck LLC
Streamline Services Plumbing, HVAC & Electrical
*All results are listed in alphabetical order
**The presence of five or more winners is the result of a tie
Cleaning Services
Lucie’s Home Services
The Maids
Spotless Clean & Carpet Care
You’ve Got Maids of Durham
Storage Facility
Brassfield Self Storage
Extra Space Storage
TROSA Moving and Storage
Truckin’ Movers
Moving Company
Miracle Movers USA
TROSA Moving and Storage
Truckin’ Movers
Two Men and a Truck
Florist
Bowerbird Flowers and Apothecary
Divine Designs by The Wedding Woman Ninth Street Flowers
Sanders Florist
Neighborhood
Garrett Farms
Hope Valley
Trinity Park
Woodcroft
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Dance Studio
American Dance Festival’s
Samuel H. Scripps Studios
Barriskill Dance Theatre School
Davis Dance Company
Fred Astaire Dance Studios
Venue for Community Theater
Carolina Theatre
Hayti Heritage Center
Mettlesome Theater
Walltown Children’s Theatre
Venue for Live Music (Large)
Baldwin Auditorium, Duke University
Boxyard RTP
Carolina Theatre
Durham Central Park
Durham Performing Arts Center
Venue for Live Music (Small)
The Blue Note Grill
Missy Lane’s Assembly Room
Motorco Music Hall
The Pinhook
TROSA Thrift Store was named one of the best for both home goods and clothing. You're sure to find a treasure, no matter what you're searching for!
This year’s Best of Durham Social Impact Award goes to Book Harvest
CHAPTER A NEW
Book Harvest is the recipient of Durham Magazine’s third annual Social Impact Award, highlighting the nonprofit’s dedication to supporting childhood literacy in the Bull City and beyond. It all started in founder and CEO Ginger Young’s garage in 2011. Activity ramped up quickly from there: Its Books on Break program, which supplies pre-K and elementary aged children with 10 books to read over summer break, launched the following year. Next was the debut of Book Babies in 2013, which provides a suite of home coaching support to assist parents in building their children’s literacy foundation from birth to kindergarten, followed by additional programs that offer support throughout the first decade of a child’s life. “We [grew] fairly quickly … with a trajectory that continues to this day,” Ginger says. The organization now employs 42, operates with an annual budget of $7.3 million and has distributed 2.5 million books since its inception.
Book Harvest’s mission remains steadfast since the very beginning: to work toward a world in which each child grows up in a home that has plenty of books. Ginger says this has led to the development of a number of initiatives “that work to meet children and families where they are in their everyday lives with the resources, support and most of all, books to build home libraries.”
Ginger and the team began to think bigger in 2022. “The work to create
In spring 2025, Book Harvest announced two partnerships and a grant award that amplify its impact throughout North Carolina:
• A partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, announced in April, allows Book Harvest to reach families in all 100 counties throughout the state. “[BCBS] is going to community events across the state and bringing books we have provided and [distributing them] to kids,” Ginger says.
• Book Harvest partnered with 19 local organizations and dozens of local leaders to supply books to schools and community groups throughout 17 counties impacted by Hurricane Helene’s destruction. The team delivered 15,331 books during trips to western North Carolina on Dec. 9, 2024, and March 7, 2025.
• A $250,000 grant from the William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust will allow Books on Break to expand statewide, enabling the program to serve an additional 3,900 students.
structural capacity for expansion of the core programs we found footholds of support for in Durham began [that year], with a decision by our board to put some time, energy and resources into figuring out what it would look like to take all that we have learned here in our flagship community and bring it to other places,” she says. This led to the hiring of executive director Tabitha Blackwell, who continues to oversee Book Harvest’s work locally while a national team
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BOOK HARVEST
focuses on expansion. Tabitha says she continues to develop initiatives in Durham while paying close attention to feedback from parents. “I think one of the best [parts of our work] is that we continue to listen to parents about how we evolve our programming to be more impactful.”
Under Tabitha’s leadership, Book Harvest Durham has established book hubs, which are both freestanding Book Boxes as well as community bookshelves at banks, hospitals, doctor’s offices, laundromats and other locations. “At the end of this year, we’ll have 109 book hubs all throughout Durham,” Tabitha says. These hubs help to ensure “the fabric of our community here in Durham is constantly including books for children to harvest everywhere they go in their daily lives,” Ginger adds.
In addition, the organization’s headquarters, community space and volunteer hub off University Drive underwent a renovation and expansion that wrapped in September
Julissa Sabat Harbaugh joined Book Harvest’s team as a literacy coach in April 2025 after “falling in love” with the organization, she says. Julissa moved to Durham two-and-a-half years ago from Mississippi with her husband and two young daughters.
“When we moved here, I was already pregnant,” Julissa says. She remembers attending Book Harvest’s annual Dream Big Book Drive & Community Celebration when her son, Santiago, was about 4 months old. There, she learned about the Book Babies program and enrolled him. “I was very excited,” Julissa says. “I had just moved here, and it was a period of trying to balance everything. Knowing that I would have somebody coming to my house bringing books and talking about [tips for early childhood literacy], it was such a nice support for me.”
When Julissa, who had worked as a music teacher, later learned that Book Harvest was hiring a literacy coach, it seemed like a natural fit for her. She now enjoys visiting families to provide ageappropriate books and guide parents in preparing their kids for school success.
“Coming from a Latina community, reading to your kids is not a habit – most of the time it’s not something that we grew up with,” Julissa says. “We’re trying to change that. It’s amazing that parents are not just being told ‘You need to read to your kids,’ but that [as a literacy coach, I’m] bringing them the tools that they need to do that with their kids.”
Book Harvest’s Mission
• Books for every child
• Support for every parent
• Literacy for every community
2024. The updated Family Space – a colorful community area where families can enjoy reading and playing together, which Ginger calls Durham’s “best kept secret,” – now includes an area for older children to read and relax. The adjacent center where volunteers help to sort and prepare books for distribution was also enhanced.
“It’s really an exciting time at Book Harvest,” Tabitha says. “Especially [because of] our family space, which is an amazing place for families to come in and engage not only with books but one another, and to create community.”
Ginger believes Book Harvest is uniquely positioned to lead the charge for literacy and book ownership. “My goal is to figure out with everybody here – volunteers, board, staff, book donors – how we normalize and create an expectation that every child has that fundamental right [to literacy] from birth without any barriers or thresholds. We’re on our way, but there’s a ton to do.”
Since 1985, Habitat for Humanity of Durham has worked to transform lives and communities, building nearly 500 homes for families in need of safe, affordable housing. Guided by our mission and supported by volunteers, donors, and community partners, we’ve been a beacon of hope for countless families in our city.
Together, we’re creating a Durham where everyone has a decent place to live. Join us as we honor our legacy and build a brighter future for generations to come.
Together, we will continue to build not only homes but also hope and opportunity for our neighbors. Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here’s to many more years of building a brighter future, side by side.
Purrfect Passenger
A cyclist and his shoulder-riding cat redefine how to explore the Triangle – one ride (and brewery) at a time
BY REBECCA
PHOTOGRAPHYSAVIDGE BY
JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON
Scott Weiner always considered himself a dog person – until two years ago when a friend’s wife brought home a kitten they didn’t want. Scott adopted the 5-week-old orange tabby and named him Keeley Jones after a character from the show “Ted Lasso.” The pair were an instant match.
“We just kind of bonded,” Scott says. Early on, Scott would place Keeley on his shoulder, but Keeley immediately hopped off. Not wanting to give up, Scott tried again – and Keeley clung on. That sparked the idea for a bike ride. He went five laps around their Van Alen Apartments building, gradually expanding their distance over
time. Keeley eventually got so comfortable that he would fall asleep – and Scott realized he could take their trick even further. “It’s his safe place,” Scott says. “He’s not gonna jump, he’s not gonna leave, he’s not gonna come off.”
Scott has biked for years and rides hundreds of miles each week. He first picked up the hobby to bond with his former stepson; their 30-mile rides became a way for them both to keep active and sparked a love for long-distance cycling in Scott. He now sometimes clocks 45 miles on the American Tobacco
Scott and Keeley at one of their fave breweries, Ponysaurus Brewing Co., which was also named one of the best in Durham by our readers!
“I’m so blessed to have a cat that’s this cool and makes people
smile.
– scott weiner
Trail in the morning before work at his company, Millwork Design Solutions, but when Keeley rides along – perched on Scott’s shoulder or backpack – they stick to 10 or 15 miles max.
The pair have garnered local fame, growing a social media presence as “The Bull Citty Kitty” on Instagram (@keeleyjonesdurham) – a nickname coined by Scott’s friend Ellery Adams, an author from Chapel Hill. The duo travel all across the Triangle – riding bikes, popping into events or just meeting new people out and about. “A lot of times, I get to a bar somewhere and see somebody’s eyes light up,” Scott says. “I know they know the cat, and I just go, ‘Hey, would you mind watching my cat for a minute?’ I go to the bathroom, get a beer, I come back, and they’re holding him. It’s just fun and just lights people up.” Their regular haunts include spots like Crank Arm Brewing, Ponysaurus Brewing Co., The Glass Jug Beer Lab and Bullseye Bicycle, some of which have bike riding clubs.
Not everyone in Scott’s household loves a group ride. In July 2024, while waiting to get his car cleaned, Scott spotted a dusty stray cat. He brought it to the vet, who confirmed she was pregnant. He named her Roy Kent –another “Ted Lasso” reference – and kept her after she gave birth. Her four kittens found great homes: One of the concierges in Scott’s building took two, and her daughter took the others, so Scott rests assured knowing they’re all close by. Even though Roy isn’t the same shoulder-riding adventurer Keeley is, she’s an integral part of the trio. “She’s never going to be a shoulder cat; she’s going to be a basket cat,” Scott says. “So we’re going to build a bike with a basket.”
These past two years with Keeley have meant more than viral photos to Scott – they’ve provided him with countless opportunities, from riding his bike more often to attending various Triangle events to connecting with people, which is Scott’s favorite part. The two (and sometimes Roy, too!) find the most joy just exploring Durham and learning new things about their city. “I’m so blessed to have a cat that’s this cool and makes people smile,” Scott says.
people &places
A Noteworthy Night
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES RIPPE, RIPPTOWNE PHOTOGRAPHY
Kidznotes hosted its Pitch Perfect Evening gala at The Rickhouse on March 25. Guests celebrated the nonprofit’s mission of making music education accessible to all children with a performance by Emmynominated composer, philanthropist and North Carolina native Ben Folds, a special showcase by the Kidznotes Abreu Orchestra, inspiring speeches from notable local figures – including City of Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams – and an exclusive auction of oneof-a-kind items personally donated by Ben Folds. A total of $57,500 raised from the event benefited Kidznotes’ efforts of driving social change through the transformative power of music education.
board members Shannon
The Kidznotes Abreu Orchestra and Ben Folds.
Kidznotes
Rutt, Nicole McCoy, Jessica Sperling, Sabrina Jones, Blake Shiver, Kidznotes Executive Director Thomas Howard Jr., and board members Beth Murgitroyd, Cassandra Anderson, Alice Turner and Kim Crouch.
The evening honored Ben Folds, who also performed at the gala, for his outstanding contributions to music and his dedication to youth through his Keys for Kids initiative.
City of Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams.
Kidznotes students perform at the Kidznotes Pitch Perfect Evening gala under the direction of Kenneth Stewart.
She-E-O Summit
BY CAITLIN CLIVE TOOMEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE COWBOY COLLECTIVE
Weird Productions hosted The Salon Durham on March 11, bringing together creative, community-minded women for an evening of connection, inspiration and celebration at Missy Lane’s Assembly Room. The event featured a powerful spoken word performance by Theresa Tha Songbird and a dynamic fireside chat with leaders including Jes Averhart, Shelley McPhatter, Tiffany Griffin and Kalle Simpson. Attendees enjoyed a chef’s potluck with dishes from Zweli Williams of Zweli’s Kitchen & Catering, Anna Gibala of Moonbelly Meat Co., Roselia Flores of La Superior and Super Taqueria, and Shayda Wilson of Sweets by Shayda. An art showcase highlighted the work of eight women artists across disciplines, from fiber and visual art to photography and millinery, while DJ Uymami set the tone with femmeforward music. Designed to spark meaningful conversations and community-building, The Salon offered a vibrant, inclusive space for women to connect across industries.
Jes & Co. CEO Jes Averhart, Discover Night founder Kalle Simpson and Bridgepoint General Contracting President Shelly McPhatter.
Kate’s Korner Learning Center’s Kate Goodwin and Ella West Gallery’s Linda Shropshire.
Inhabit Real Estate’s Tammi Brooks and Durham Magazine’s Melissa Cooley mingle with new friends.
Cisco Principal Corporate Counsel Tracy Gaskins.
Bright Black’s Tiffany Griffin, who spoke during the fireside chat.
McNab & Company Principal Margaret McNab.
Lexari Group CEO Martine Jackson and Third Degree Solutions CEO Me’chelle Degree.
—Todd P.
came to Ignite Wellness because I was unable to tie my shoe or bend because of arthritis in my hip. The arthritis was so severe that I began walking with a limp. I am also an avid bowler and hip pain was interfering with my game. After a few short weeks of decompression therapy to my hip and 4 shockwave treatments, I can walk without a limp and can bend more comfortably to tie my shoe!”
Drawn Together
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SABRINA
SHAW
The Durham Art Guild welcomed more than 100 guests to its annual Swing Into Spring fundraiser and auction at its gallery space in Golden Belt. The event raised $23,322 to support the organization’s mission of enriching the Durham community through the arts and paid special tribute to acclaimed artist Beverly McIver, who received a commemorative plaque recognizing her achievements. Surrounded by students, friends and family, Beverly’s influence and legacy were celebrated throughout the night.
Guests embraced the vibrant atmosphere, donning florals and sampling bites and sips from local favorites like M Sushi, Monuts, Kingfisher, Ponysaurus Brewing Co., Durham Distillery and Pure Soul. Activities included clay-making, live art exhibitions and “Doodle Jam,” a drawing contest hosted by Weird Productions
DJ Gemynii kept the energy high as attendees explored the studios and creative spaces. VIP ticket holders enjoyed exclusive access to a private exhibit and a whiskey tasting curated by Weldon Mills Durham Distillery, rounding out an evening dedicated to artistic expression and community celebration.
Jordan Moyd, Yuchi Chang and April Fan, students of Beverly McIver.
Malcolm Morris-Griffin and Michaella Kosia.
Eleanor Bruton and Kasey Sorrell.
Weird Productions founder Lindsay Hebert.
Rena Norwood.
Full STEAM Ahead
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RESEARCH TRIANGLE FOUNDATION OF NORTH CAROLINA
Kidzu Children’s Museum celebrated the grand opening of The Makery at Boxyard RTP with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, open house, hands-on projects and performances by Meadowlark Music and DJ Shahzad. The program also included remarks by Rep. David Price and RTP Executive Vice President & COO Andrew Holton. This new dynamic maker space blends traditional craftsmanship with advanced technology like 3D printing and robotics, allowing upper elementary-aged kids, tweens, teens and adults to explore interactive creativity through STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) learning. CEO Jamie DeMent Holcomb also announced the experiential learning institution’s new name – the North Carolina Children’s Museum – along with plans to expand its operations to a 47-acre site on Mount Carmel Church Road. The forthcoming state-of-the-art campus will feature a multi-wing educational facility, central lawn and learning gardens, amphitheaters, adventure trails and ropes courses, all designed to bring innovative programming to families across the state.
RTP Executive Vice President & COO Andrew Holton.
The Makery staff members Caleb Riggs and Jen Mazur.
CEO Jamie DeMent Holcomb delivers opening remarks. Meadowlark Music leads a singalong.
The Reel Deal
WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY RENEE AMBROSO
The 27th annual Full Frame Documentary Film Festival – a partnership between Duke University’s Center for Documentary Studies and Venue & Production Management – took place downtown April 3-6, bringing 49 films from 30 countries to screens at the Carolina Theatre, the Durham Convention Center and Durham Central Park. The event included four free doc showcases that were open to the public, as well as Q-and-As with filmmakers.
Saladelia and Parizade provided on-site provisions to keep festivalgoers fueled between films, while The Durham Hotel hosted free “Speakeasy Conversations,” which allowed filmmakers, industry insiders and attendees to engage in nuanced conversations on issues central to the documentary community.
The Durham Armory hosted an opening night party as well as an awards barbecue, during which nine awards and a total of $45,000 in cash prizes were distributed among the 20 features and 15 short films that competed in the New Docs category.
Evelyn Shue, Gi Chun and Lucas Lin.
Chuck Catotti, former Durham City Council member Diane Catotti and Patrick Baker.
Dorcas Williams, Brooke Doss and Chris White.
Full Frame Documentary Film Festival Programming Committee Member and Film Durham Artistic Director Penelope Bartlett, Film Durham Executive Director Alece Oxendine and Lisa Cortés.
Claude Burton and Marjorie Yarbrough Burton.
Rise
& Shine
The Junior League of Durham and Orange Counties hosted its inspiring annual Community Leaders Breakfast March 7 to celebrate women who lead with purpose and navigate change with courage. The morning began with breakfast and conversation among attendees at the Hill House, followed by meaningful conversations around leadership, community impact and collective action – echoing the words of Margaret J. Wheatley: “There is no power for change greater than a community discovering what it cares about.”
FLAGS FOR HEROES
PLATINUM SPONSOR
Junior League Community Vice President Dr. Marika Coffman; speakers Susan Ross, Kels Bowman and Sarah Woodard; Junior League President Nakisha Boulware Watts; and moderator and Junior League Nominating Assistant Chair Rachel White.
The Perfect Place to Come Home To
Epcon’s Durham-area communities allow you to live life on your terms.
With landscape maintenance included, you will finally experience freedom from time-consuming yard work and the flexibility to lock and leave when you please.
Whether you’re traveling across the state, the country or the world, you can rest assured that your new Epcon home is well cared for and maintained, just the way it should be. But that’s not all.
Once your travel concludes, you’ll always return to a luxury ranch home with an open floor plan, generous natural light, sophisticated features and a private, garden courtyard.
“With all the traveling we do, our Epcon home allows us to lock and leave without a care.”
TODD & VICKI Happy Epcon Homeowners
A Runway to Remember
BY TAYLOR MOTLEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEVEN PAUL WHITSITT PHOTOGRAPHY
More than 620 guests gathered at the Durham Convention Center on March 22 for The Durham (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated’s 10th annual Shades of Green Fashion Show. The high-energy event celebrated The Links’ mission to enrich the lives of people of African descent through service. Local models strutted down the runway in bold, eyecatching designs, drawing cheers from the stylish crowd. After the show, guests enjoyed brunch and browsed boutique fashion vendors for the perfect statement pieces.
Chloe Blackmon.
Duke University Assistant Cheer Coach Alexis Brown.
Azani Couture Boutique co-owner Jasmine Bryson.
Erin Imafidon and Cheryl Smith.
Miss North Carolina 2024 Carrie Everett.
Wanda Garrett and Shades of Green Fashion Show co-chair Michelle Stanback.
Carla Nunn, Stephanie Williams and Melba Uzzell.
Nikkida Perry, Aura Salon & Boutique owner Gia Peebles and hair stylist Janika Williams.
1. Stonewood Estates, Durham, NC
$600s
2. Watkins Grove, Raleigh, NC
● Single-family homes from the mid $400s
● Easy access to I-540
3. Carpenters Pointe, Cary, NC
● Townhomes from the mid $500s
● Panther Creek High
4. Friendship Village – Apex, NC
● Single-family and townhomes coming late summer
● Across the street from Apex Friendship schools
Jason Cross & Zachary Kerr
BY TAYLOR MOTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY SHERROW, ASSORTED POPPIES PHOTO, ASSORTEDPOPPIESPHOTO.COM
Wedding Date Aug. 3, 2024
Occupations Jason and Zack both work at UNC – Jason as an IT manager and Zack as an associate professor in the exercise and sport science department.
Crossed Paths Jason, originally from Lexington, North Carolina, has lived in Durham since graduating from UNC. Zack moved from Maui, Hawai’i, to pursue a Ph.D. at UNC. The two met on a dating app in summer 2019 and quickly arranged a first date at Alpine Bagel Cafe on campus, conveniently located near their offices. “We’ve been pretty inseparable since,” Zack says.
The Proposal Zack popped the question outside Queeny’s, one of their favorite bars, by pretending to trip and then pulling out a ring. “Oh, my God, it’s happening, it’s really happening!” Jason remembers thinking amid welling tears and the feeling that time had stopped. The couple continued inside to celebrate, where they posed for a Polaroid now displayed on the bar’s “family wall.”
The Big Day The pair said their vows at The Velvet Hippo in a ceremony and reception that honored both their roots and love for Durham. Little Barb’s Bakery crafted a vintage-style cake adorned in white and red frosting ribbons while Strong Arm Bakery out of Oxford provided catering. Jason partnered with University Florist to import leis from Hawai’i. Paper cranes hung around the venue paid homage to Zack’s Japanese heritage. The wedding party stayed at 21c Museum Hotel, just steps from the celebration. Jorden the DJ kept the party going, and photographer Ashley Sherrow captured every heartfelt moment. Favorite Moments Zack took Jason on a series of dates in the weeks leading up to the big day, including Ideal’s Sandwich and Grocery; Little Bull; The Oak House Durham; Viceroy; EverLou Coffee Co.; Union Ramen Bar in New Orleans; Queeny’s for a “J-Date,” (Jason’s term for outings with friends); Atomic Clock Brewing Co.; Yamazushi
Majin-An Tea House; the South Durham Farmers Market; Oakleaf in Carrboro and Ninth Street Bakery. Jason had no idea that the first letters of each location spelled out a secret message:
“I love U, Jayson,” which Zack revealed during his vows. He intentionally misspelled Jason’s name – a playful nod to Jason’s well-known dislike of it within an otherwise heartfelt message.
“I remember starting the reveal, hearing gasps from everyone and seeing Jason’s face, shocked and then tearing up,” Zack says. Jason’s favorite moment was slipping back to Queeny’s between the ceremony and reception to toast with champagne and take another Polaroid –now hanging next to the first.
Do you live in Durham or are from here and want your wedding or engagement featured in our magazine? Scan this code to send us your info.
Best Museum
Best Family Outing
Best Summer Camps
The Museum of Life and Science is one of North Carolina’s top-rated destinations. It’s an interactive science center, a nature park with animals, and 84 acres of openended experiences. We’ve got bears, dinosaurs, train rides, treehouses, NASA artifacts, and butterflies from around the world. See you soon!
