OUR TOWN 2026

OUR TOWN 2026

A curated guide to Raleigh living by the editors of WALTER

E XC L U S I V E L Y AT

EDITOR’S LETTER

OUR TOWN 2026

PUBLISHER & CEO DAVID WORONOFF

Ayn-Monique Klahre Editor On the cover: Illustration by Autumn Cobeland

2 | OUR TOWN

EDITORIAL Editor AYN-MONIQUE KLAHRE Creative Director LAURA PETRIDES WALL Contributing Writers Kendall Campos, Bailey Garrison Luca Muehlbauer Contributing Graphic Designers Scarlett Cain, Vivian Krause

BUSINESS Advertising Sales Manager JULIE NICKENS Senior Account Executive & Operations CRISTINA BAKER Finance HENRY HOGAN Distribution JAMES KAY Owners Jack Andrews, Frank Daniels III, David Woronoff In memoriam Frank Daniels, Jr.

GENERAL Inquiries WALTER OFFICE 984-286-0928 info@waltermagazine.com Address all correspondence to: OUR TOWN c/o WALTER magazine 421 Fayetteville Street, Suite 104 Raleigh, N.C. 27601

Laura Wall

O

ne of my favorite questions is: What should we do this weekend? That’s because Raleigh offers so many great answers!

You could spend it relishing urban living: browsing shops, walking to museums, grabbing a meal and a drink at some hip new place. Or you could fill it with nature, packing a picnic before taking a gentle hike through a shady grove. If you have little ones, there are plenty of parks with great playgrounds — and plenty of eateries with ample room to feed a group. If you’re looking for something quieter, grab a book or a friend and head to an upscale restaurant where you can find immersive cuisine and attentive service, then catch a show at one of our varied performing arts venues.

It’s that balance of offerings that I love the most about this town.

We’ve got big-city amenities with small-town heart. We don’t just want to shop at a store — we want to know who started the business and how they’re carrying it forward. When you try someplace new, you can feel like a regular by the end of the night. And there’s about a 95% chance you’ll run into someone you know every time you leave the house, whether that’s to go to the grocery store or to the neighborhood watering hole.

At WALTER, we have the privilege of being the first to learn about what’s new around town — restaurants and bars, art exhibits and performances, retail developments — but we’re also deeply invested in making sure we honor and patronize the stalwarts that built the Raleigh we love.

So that’s what OUR TOWN is: a giant list of our recommendations, broken down into the categories that we think will be most useful to you.

We hope this inspires you to broaden your palate, appreciate what we’ve got and, most of all, live to the fullest in the City of Oaks.

We know the good coffee shops ...and a whole lot more!

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TABLE OF CONTENTS IN EVERY ISSUE

2 4

Editor’s Letter Welcome to OUR TOWN! Masthead Table of Contents

21

EXPLORE

9 Introduction 11 Walkable Raleigh

Get to know the history and personalities of our signature residential neighborhoods

16 Destination Districts

These newly developed retail and entertainment areas each have their own vibe

21 Where to Shop

Guides to finding the perfect gift, a finishing touch for your home or a new outfit

26 Arts & Culture

Noteworthy performing arts companies, music venues, galleries and studios

28 Museums

Where to learn about history, nature and more

30 Nature & Recreation

Get outside and enjoy yourself at these green spaces, gardens and play areas

32 Recreational Lakes

Spots for fishing, boating, paddling and more

35 Living Well

Businesses that help you make the most of living in Raleigh

4 | OUR TOWN

16

clockwise from top left: TK; the Williard Rooftop; TK

46

Clockwise from left: Smoky Hollow; Green Rabbit Plants; Wolfe & Porter.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

37 Introduction 38 Coffee & Baked Goods

The best espresso, drip coffee, croissants and other treats

40 Breakfast

Sit-down spots to start your day right

41 Local Haunts

Low-key neighborhood bars to grab a drink with friends

42 Casual Fare

Easygoing lunch and dinner locales

44 A Night Out

Restaurants with ambience and inventive menus

46 Cocktail & Wine Bars

Places where you can get a well-crafted beverage or the perfect glass of wine

END NOTE

48 Raleigh through the Seasons The annual traditions that make the City of Oaks feel like home

courtesy Smoky Hollow (SMOKY HOLLOW); courtesy Green Rabbit Plants (GREEN RABBIT); Forrest Mason (WOLFE & PORTRE)

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EXPLORE Wondering what to do around town? We’ve got a few ideas for where to shop, wander, browse and more.

Joshua Steadman

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Raleigh boasts a unique blend of civic pride and creative energy. We’ve got all the amenities that pull in tourists — nationally renowned museums, acclaimed performing arts companies — but for us, they’re part of the local scene. Our urban areas and retail centers hum with energy, while nearby residential neighborhoods offer a break from the bustle. A walk in the woods is never far away — but neither is a cute boutique. Read on and get inspired to explore the best in our City of Oaks.

OUR TOWN | 9

Joshua Steadman

EXPLORE

Hayes Barton

WALKABLE RALEIGH

W

hile Raleigh may be in the national spotlight for its current rapid growth, it’s the city’s deep and complex history that lends it interest and charm.

Raleigh sits on Tuscarora and Siouan territory, two Native American tribes whose roots in North Carolina date back thousands of years. The earliest English settlers arrived along the coast in 1585, followed by the infamous “Lost Colony” two years later, and began to displace the Native Americans through relocation, disease and brutal battles. In 1663, the Province of Carolina was established by King Charles II, and in 1712 was divided into North and South Carolina.

In the wake of the American Revolution and newfound inde-

pendence, Raleigh was founded as North Carolina’s new state capital in 1792 on land purchased from plantation owner Joel Lane. The city was named after Sir Walter Raleigh, a 16th-century English explorer who never set foot in North America, but was an essential player in establishing North Carolina as a colony.

(He had his own colorful history: After secretly marrying Elizabeth Throckmorton, a lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth I, he was convicted of treason by King James I and spent over a decade in the Tower of London before he was beheaded.)

Raleigh remained mostly agricultural, dominated by plantations and small farms, well into the 19th century. But after the invention of the railroad and the Civil War, many politicians and businessmen flocked to the area, settling down with their families after Reconstruction.

The city grew steadily for the next

hundred years, navigating Jim Crow laws and segregationist practices through the 1960s. Raleigh hosted several sit-ins, led by students from Shaw University and Saint Augustine’s College, and was the site of legislative battles that compelled statewide desegregation in the early 1970s.

Over the last 50 years, Raleigh has seen surges and lulls in its development, with a spike of growth in the early 2000s. Today, Raleigh is one of the fastest-growing cities in the U.S., attracting students, families and professionals as a hub for universities, cultural institutions and the technology sector. But amidst this modern development, Raleigh has made a commitment to historic preservation and green spaces that make it a uniquely livable city with a small-town feel. Here are a few of the signature residential neighborhoods in the City of Oaks.

BOYLAN HEIGHTS

Just south of downtown, Boylan Heights is known for its Colonialstyle architecture, vibrant art scene and easy access to the nearby Dorothea Dix Park. The neighborhood dates back to the early 19th century, when William Montford Boylan Sr. purchased nearly 200 acres of land, including what is now Boylan Heights. In 1858, Boylan commissioned the construction of Montford Hall, an ornate mansion that is now the historic Heights House Hotel. Boylan’s land was passed down through his family and was even used as camping grounds for Confederate soldiers during the Civil War, and the Greater Raleigh Land Company purchased the land in 1907. Today, Boylan Heights maintains much of its history as an early-20th-century development OUR TOWN | 11

EXPLORE and is a welcoming neighborhood in the midst of a growing city.

Nearby, Dix Park is a prime location for a long walk or picnic, and every December, the neighborhood hosts the popular Boylan Heights ArtWalk, where local artists turn the porches and yards of historic homes into a pop-up market selling unique, handmade art and gifts.

At the heart of Raleigh lies the historic downtown and its iconic city skyline. Originally centered around the Capitol Building and bordered

by North, South, East and West Streets, this area has slowly built up to include high-rises for business and residences. On the southwest side of downtown, the Warehouse District has seen recent revitalization, with landmarks like the train station and the Dillon, the home of an old hardware supply company, being repurposed into apartments and event spaces while maintaining their industrial roots, making them some of the city’s best examples of adaptive reuse. Quintessential downtown spots also include Moore and Nash Squares, which often host outdoor music and markets, as well as the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts and Red Hat Amphitheater, which host dozens of acts each year and solidify downtown as a vibrant entertainment district. Hargett Street is a destination for its collection of unique shops, and City Market, which dates back to 1914, retains its charm with narrow cobblestone streets.

FOREST PARK

The development of Forest Park — the roughly triangular area between Hillsborough Street, St. Mary’s

12 | OUR TOWN

Clockwise from top left: North Hills, Oakwood, Village District.

Street and Clark Avenue — began in 1910, growing simultaneously with the Boylan Heights and Glenwood-Brooklyn neighborhoods.

The neighborhood was originally christened Cameron Park, named after Paul Cameron and his family, wealthy landowners in antebellum North Carolina who used thousands of enslaved people to run their plantation. In 2022, the residents of Cameron Park voted to change the neighborhood’s name to Forest Park; the nearby shopping area was also renamed The Village District. Today, Forest Park offers a walkable mix of old and new architecture, showcasing historic 20th-century houses, modern townhomes and everything in between. Residents include an eclectic mix of college students and professors, longtime residents and young families attracted to features like Fred Fletcher Park and the Oberlin Regional Library.

HAYES BARTON & FIVE POINTS

Farther removed from downtown, the Hayes Barton neighborhood is unique for offering both historic homes and a vibrant business area.

In the 19th century, Hayes Barton was “Fairview Farm,” a productive 50-acre farm owned by Civil War veteran Captain B. P. Williamson.

After Williamson’s death in 1919, the land was purchased for development and named “Hayes Barton,” an homage to Sir Walter Raleigh’s birthplace in England. Raleighites who wanted quiet away from the city center flocked to the neighborhood as it developed, constructing period revival homes that still stand today. Over one hundred years later, the neighborhood is walkable and family-friendly while being centered around essential routes like Glenwood Avenue and Oberlin Road that meet at the Five Points

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EXPLORE intersection, a collection of shops and restaurants that began growing in the 1930s. The intersection is an iconic Raleigh landmark and feels like a trip back to the fifties. Catch a new or classic movie at The Rialto Theatre, grab a slice of pizza at Lilly’s or sit and linger over lunch and dessert at Hayes Barton Cafe and Dessertery, a local 1940s-style diner next to the old Hayes Barton Pharmacy.

HISTORIC OAKWOOD

Thanks to its ardent residents, Raleigh’s oldest residential neighborhood has been thoughtfully preserved and offers a quiet oasis at the heart of the city. Many of the houses in Oakwood date back to the 19th century, the time when local business and political leaders settled with their families after the Civil War. In 1972, the city planned the construction of a major road straight through the neighborhood, and residents formed the Society for the Preservation of Historic Oakwood to prevent it — and succeeded.

Today, Oakwood’s Victorian-era houses are characterized by their pastel color palette and distinct personalities, with features like wrap-around porches, turrets and arched windows. The neighborhood is also known for exuberantly celebrating every holiday; its annual Candlelight Tour invites guests into its historic homes, and the Halloween decorations are a growing draw.

Other favorite Oakwood gems are SmokeStacks Cafe, a destination for traditional Southern food, and Side Street Restaurant, an old-fashioned sandwich shop that has called Oakwood home since 1979.

MORDECAI

Next door to Oakwood, the neighborhood of Mordecai (pronounced

Mor-de-key) similarly features historic charm while within arm’s reach of up-and-coming modern districts like Seaboard Station and Smoky Hollow. The neighborhood owes its name to lawyer and planter Moses Mordecai, who married into the prominent Lane family, and, it’s said, changed the pronunciation in response to persistent antisemitism. The neighborhood is home to Raleigh’s oldest residence, the Mordecai House, which was commissioned by Joel Lane, the patriarch of the Lane family, in 1785 and still stands on its original foundation.

Around Mordecai, you’ll be able to spot both historic Southern cottages and newer developments, homes for both families and young professionals. While you might feel like you’ve stepped back in time, modern conveniences are an easy walk away, including local favorite stops like Standard Beer + Food, Two Roosters and the vintage Krispy Kreme around the corner.

NORTH HILLS

The northern parts of Raleigh were not developed until much later, as the city grew and expanded out of the city center. The neighborhood of Drewry Hills was developed in the 1950s, and today, many of the original ranch homes are being replaced by newer construction. In the 1960s, the North Hills Mall was the first indoor mall built between Atlanta and Washington, D.C., and in 1999, Kane Realty Corporation purchased the mall for redevelopment, converting it to an open-air shopping center that continues to expand. North Hills is now one of Raleigh’s fastestgrowing neighborhoods, with streets known for their plentiful trees and greenery on large lots. The bustling North Hills center offers upscale

shopping and restaurants, outdoor music events, the Midtown Farmers Market and apartments that many young professionals call home.

ST. MARY’S STREET

One of Raleigh’s most scenic streets, St. Mary’s is known for its broad lawns and picturesque Colonial architecture: brick houses, white columns and large, beautiful trees.

With close access to Five Points and the Village District, the route makes for a beautiful drive with that classic, Inside-the-Beltline charm. The branching neighborhood streets are known for their family-friendliness, with close access to schools and the Greenway Trails. St. Mary’s is the perfect locale for a springtime walk or drive; the trees shading the road blossom into vibrant pinks and whites, setting a postcard-worthy scene.

UNIVERSITY PARK

Bordering the North Carolina State University campus, University Park feels like a neighborhood nestled in a college town. Centered around quintessential Raleigh landmarks like Pullen Park and Raleigh Little Theatre, the quiet streets are tucked away from the bustling college scene while providing easy, walkable access to it. With its classic, red brick architecture, Hillsborough Street boasts a number of favorite local restaurants (especially for NC State alums!), including standbys like Cup A Joe, Mitch’s Tavern and Players Retreat. For shopping, Nice Price and Reader’s Corner are prime spots for books and records. And being near the university, you’re never far from catching an NC State football or basketball game.

OUR TOWN | 15

EXPLORE

DESTINATION DISTRICTS

BOXYARD AND THE HORSESHOE AT HUB RTP

Located within Research Triangle Park rather than Raleigh proper, Boxyard and Hub RTP are worth including as genuinely novel destinations (and not just for the nine-tofivers who work nearby). The more casual Boxyard RTP (constructed from old shipping containers) is an open-air food hall-style space with a roof for shade/rain cover. The Horseshoe at Hub RTP — three buildings wrapped around a courtyard — opened in 2025 with more sit-down fare.

BROWSE Nanny Goat is a boutique and bodega in the Horseshoe offering chef-prepared meals, local artisan goods, produce and drinks.

At Boxyard, check out Guildhall

16 | OUR TOWN

Clockwise from left: Mala Pata; a food truck parked at Gateway Plaza; Peyote mini bar.

Games for activities and toys, clean beauty brand Keisha Elise Cosmetics and Kindred Spirit home fragrances.

EAT James Beard Award-nominated chef Preeti Waas recently opened Cheeni Indian Food Emporium at the Horseshoe, a restaurant serving her acclaimed contemporary regional Indian menu.

Drift Coffee & Kitchen offers morning and midday fuel from a Wilmington-based brand. Coming soon: Prime STQ, a Texas barbecue-meets-steakhouse concept from Prime Barbecue pitmaster Christopher Prieto, and Di Fara Pizza Tavern, a Brooklyn pizza institution. Inside Boxyard, consider Baekho Coffee and Ice Cream for a pick-me-up, Bulkogi for Korean barbecue, La Taqueria by Katsuji for Mexican food or Will & Well, a locally grown spot for health-conscious salads, juices and smoothies.

DRINK In the Boxyard, Durhamborn Fullsteam RTP offers earth-conscious craft beer, and RTP Uncorked is a friendly wine bar.

Learn more at boxyard.rtp.org and hub.rtp.org.

EAST END MARKET

Just east of Five Points on Whitaker Mill Road, East End Market opened in 2022 and has earned a reputation as a sophisticated dining destination. Its brick-and-industrial aesthetic fits the neighborhood, and it boasts some accomplished culinary names.

EAT A high-end French steakhouse from the Giorgios Bakatsias restaurant group, East End Bistrot is led by executive chef William D’Auvray.

DRINK East Bower Cider Company is Raleigh’s first cidery, known for its innovative pours and airy indoor and outdoor spaces. Learn more at eastendraleigh.com.

Forrest Mason

A

s Raleigh grows, real estate developers have focused on aging and underutilized parts of town, reimagining them for the next generation of city living. Much of this involves the thoughtful integration of various amenities — residential living and retail, walkability and connectivity, for example, plus various forms of entertainment to draw in new guests.

These projects can take years to come to fruition, and even longer to settle into their own personalities.

But as savvy local and regional entrepreneurs fill them with business, they can offer a brand-new area to spend a few hours browsing, drinking or dining, right here in Raleigh.

Consider visiting one of these recently developed areas, each of which offers a mix of shops, restaurants and walkability.

courtesy Dogwood Country Club

When Dave and Elyssa Nastalski opened Dogwood Country Club in 2018, few expected it to last. Eight years later, it’s an ITB staple, pairing Dave’s PGA expertise with worldclass simulator technology. Elite members fine-tune their swings, while casual golfers and rookies drop in for hourly bay rentals, playing courses worldwide. The club also hosts private events, from corporate outings to weddings and baby showers, and recently expanded into luxury simulator installations for homes and businesses.

THE EXCHANGE

Raleigh’s newest midtown landmark, the 12-story 1000 Social tower at The Exchange, opened in 2024 on a 40-acre campus straddling Six Forks Road. While it’s primarily an office tower, its ground-floor hospitality has some of the city’s most talked-about venues.

EAT The anchor restaurant is Peregrine, a collaboration between artist-turned-restaurateur Patrick Shanahan and former Vidrio chef Saif Rahman. There, find a menu that weaves together travel-inspired flavors from South Asia and beyond. Toastique offers cold-pressed juices, açaí bowls and loaded toasts, and daytime lunch and aperitivo concept Pranzo is a new outpost from Lafayette Village institution Bongiorno & Son. Coming soon: Mezcalito, the regional Tex-Mex favorite, expands here with its signature oversized margaritas.

DRINK The Capulet Cocktail Club is another project from Shanahan: an Italian-inspired cocktail bar decorated in jewel tones, velvet curtains and Roman-inspired frescoes. Its courtyard fountain and outdoor bar make it a natural destination even on warmer evenings. The beverage director is Zack Thomas, formerly of Boatman Spirits Co. Learn more at theexchangeraleigh.com.

GATEWAY PLAZA

This 1960s-era strip mall off Crabtree Boulevard, just a little northeast of downtown, underwent a pretty dramatic makeover starting in 2018. It has since attracted an eclectic, hipster-ish mix of businesses, many of them run by established names in the hospitality scene.

BROWSE There’s always a beautiful selection of sweets perfect for host gifts at Escazū Chocolates, the artisanal brand started by Danielle Cen-

teno. Find video games and trading cards at Hidden Block Games. For your furry friends, there’s Woof Gang, a boutique pet supplies store with house-baked dog treats. If you have an afternoon to play, consider a round at Dogwood Country Club, a locally owned indoor golf studio with simulators, a putting green, a pro shop and more.

EAT Grab a loaf and a latte at Union Special Bread, Andrew Ullom’s bakery. Mala Pata is an inventive Latin-inspired restaurant that’s a collaboration between Zack Gragg, Angela Salamanca, Marshall Davis, Eric Montagne and Justin Pasfield.

It was recently awarded the Bib Gourmand from MICHELIN for its masa-forward menu. The family-owned Miso Ramen Bar offers cozy, housemade noodle soups.

Longtime vegan restaurant Fiction Kitchen moved here to continue offering its hearty, plant-based dishes. For a healthy snack, check out Bomb Bar, which offers smoothies and toasts.

DRINK Mordecai Beverage Co. is a friendly brewery and taproom with plenty of space to gather with a crew. Next door, Natural Science is a more cocktail-forward spot, but with a welcoming atmosphere and a big patio out back. Learn more at gatewayplazaraleigh.com.

NORTH HILLS INNOVATION DISTRICT

You’re probably already familiar with North Hills, but its newest corner, the North Hills Innovation District (NHID), is a 33-acre development hugging Big Branch Creek, connected to the rest of North Hills by pedestrian bridges and greenway trails. At its heart is Makers Alley, a row of intentionally small retail spaces designed for local artisans, OUR TOWN | 17

makers and first-time store owners.

BROWSE The initial class of Makers Alley tenants skews female, minority-owned and deeply local. Green Rabbit Plants offers a verdant selection of houseplants and planters.

Ky’s Kandles, started by Kyla Smith as a college-era passion project, sells luxury refillable candles, hand-poured in NC. Teal HouZ is a clothing boutique for tweens and teens, and next door, The BalloonZ Shop handles event balloon décor.

Hellbent is a curated boutique of apparel, accessories and lifestyle goods. Dose Yoga + Smoothie Bar anchors the corner with hot yoga classes, smoothies and adaptogen lattes. Unlikely Professionals offers cool menswear and accessories, while TrenLend offers special occasion clothing rentals. A Lil’ R + R is a colorful gift boutique from illustrator Emily Petrilla, stocked with her original wares alongside home goods and fun odds and ends.

EAT & DRINK Beloved Person Street brewery Standard Beer + Food recently opened its second location, surrounded by its most expansive outdoor space yet. Good Graces is a café and restaurant offering seasonal American dishes alongside coffee and pastries. Coming soon: Benchwarmers Bagels’ wood-fired bagels, breakfast sandwiches and pizza. Learn more at nhid.com.

RALEIGH IRON WORKS

On an 18-acre former industrial site off Atlantic Avenue that once housed Peden Steel Co., Raleigh Iron Works leans into its industrial bones — exposed brick, steel beams, open-air promenades — and has attracted an eclectic mix of retail shops, restaurants, breweries and experiential concepts.

BROWSE The Flourish Market is a

18 | OUR TOWN

Clockwise from top left: East Bower Cider Company; an offering at East End Bistrot; pizza at Ponysaurus Brewing Co.

purpose-driven women’s boutique and gift shop, and Beatniks brings classic menswear. Urban Pothos Houseplant Shop caters to plant lovers, and Hunky Dory Records offers a great selection (and beverages, too!). Fall Back Vintage offers curated used clothing and home accessories. As far as destination fitness goes, consider Solidcore or Yoba Studio.

EAT James Beard Award-nominated chef Scott Crawford’s Brodeto is an upscale Croatian-Italian restaurant. For more casual fare, consider Little Rey, which offers Tex-Mexstyle tacos and salads, or Eastcut Sandwich Bar, the second location for this Durham sandwich institution. And Andia’s Ice Cream offers small-batch sweets and Insta-worthy milkshakes. Botiwalla is a new outpost from Chai Pani chef Meherwan Irani that offers Indian street food.

DRINK Ponysaurus Brewing Co., the beloved Durham brewery known for its slow-sip craft beers, set up its second location here with 18 taps and specialty pizzas developed by former Royale chef Jeff Seizer. Saint-Pierre Wine Shop & Bar, a new concept from Anthony Guerra (Oakwood Pizza Box), rounds out the options with a curated natural wine selection and bites from chef Vivian Howard. Learn more at raleighironworks.com.

SEABOARD STATION

Just north of Peace Street and west of William Peace University, this longtime retail area was reinvented as a modern mixed-use district in 2023. Here, visitors will find the Hyatt House hotel alongside a growing lineup of restaurants, nightlife options and wellness brands. It was also approved as a Sip-n-Stroll social district in 2025,

courtesy East end Market; Forrest Mason (EAST END BISTRO, PONYSAURUS)

EXPLORE

courtesy Smoky Hollow

SMOKY HOLLOW

Clockwise from top left: The pedestrian walkway in Smoky Hollow; the bar at The Crunkleton; residential areas of Smoky Hollow.

so you can walk around with a drink in hand.

BROWSE Here it’s less about shopping than wellness (that said, if you’re looking for a new pair of glasses, The Eye Institute has great options!). For fitness, check out Club Pilates for reformer classes; O2 Fitness, a general gym with classes; or BodyFit Training for group strength building. Sweathouz is a sauna-plunge studio and Seaboard Nails is a Raleigh stalwart for mani-pedis.

EAT Hungry? Head to Biscuit Belly, a Louisville import, which specializes in indulgent Southern fare (very popular on the weekends!). Palm Berries is another regional chain that offers fruit-driven açaí bowls and smoothies. For an afternoon pick-me-up, visit Ammi’s Dessert & Chai House for Indian-influenced sweets and teas or Tous Les Jours for Korean-inspired breads,

cakes and pastries. Omakase by Kai is a second outpost from chef/ owner James Chung, who also operates Kai Sushi & Sake Bar in North Raleigh. Here, he offers an intimate, chef-driven sushi tasting experience. Neighborhood favorite Peace China offers Chinese fare to stay or to go. Tacos Mamá Chava is a family-owned, brick-and-mortar outpost for authentic Mexican food that grew from a (still popular) food truck. K38 Baja Grill brings the beach-town flavors of the Wilmington original to the table with Baja tacos, ceviche and cold drinks. The Yard Milkshake Bar serves photogenic, over-the-top shakes.

DRINK For a big-city feel, head to High Rail, a rooftop bar with skyline views. Boatman Spirits Co. is a 7,000-square-foot craft distillery and Mediterranean restaurant from a team of local hospitality veterans.

Learn more at seaboardstation.com.

Just east of the popular Glenwood South entertainment district, Smoky Hollow offers a fun but slightly more grown-up take on nightlife and daytime living. This development, which opened in 2020, has a large pedestrian-friendly courtyard which has hosted everything from fashion festivals to the City of Oaks Marathon finish line.

BROWSE Hause of Dogs is a bake shop and spa for furry friends. Dose Yoga + Smoothie Bar has both classes and inventive snack blends; you can also get your fitness at JetSet Pilates. Head to Noire the Nail Bar for self-care.

EAT One of Smoky Hollow’s first tenants, Madre is a chic tapas restaurant. Midwood Smokehouse offers all-hickory-smoked barbecue to a Raleigh audience. Tucker Street Diner, from the husbandand-wife team behind Raleigh’s Shiny Diner and Apex’s Peak City Diner, offers all-day breakfast and other American classics. La Cucina Italiana rounds things out with Italian classics in a warm, approachable setting. For a snack, head to Morelia Gourmet Paletas, which offers Mexican popsicles and ice creams, or MILKLAB, where you’ll find milk teas, fruit teas and unique rolled ice cream combos.

DRINK Moon Room, by the same folks as Madre, is a cocktail and jazz bar with live music most nights. The Crunkleton — a Chapel Hill craft cocktail institution since 2008 — has a vast spirits collection and Prohibition-era sensibility. (It also has a full menu!) Barrio Tacos + Tequila + Whiskey serves build-your-own tacos alongside creative cocktails in a lively setting. Learn more at smokyhollowraleigh.com.

OUR TOWN | 19

H O M ES

INNOVATIVE DESIGNS • SUPERIOR QUALITY INTRICATE TRIM DETAILS EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SATISFACTION

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ICGHomes.com 919-876-5802

EXPLORE es, this team of designers, craftsmen and installers partners with clients to create functional, beautiful custom storage solutions. 4580 Atlantic Avenue; closetsbydesign.com Copperline Plant Co. Within its window-lined corner location, this boutique shop has the information and resources for plant lovers of all experience levels. 23 W. Hargett Street; copperlineplants.com

courtesy Copperline Plant Co.

Father and Son Antiques This fun corner of the Warehouse District offers a curated collection of mostly mid-century furniture, gifts and records. 302 S. West Street; instagram.com/fatherandsonraleigh Copperline Plant Co. owner Molly Williams in the shop.

WHERE TO SHOP

O

ften clustered into walkable shopping districts — Downtown, North Hills and The Village District are go-tos — our one-of-a-kind retailers offer character and Southern hospitality. From fine furniture and designer clothing to artisanal goods and indie bookstores, Raleigh has a great mix of new shops and long-standing businesses worth browsing.

HOME & GARDEN

Looking for a new touch of style for your home or the tools to transform your garden into a corner of paradise? Between sprawling garden centers and curated home stores, everyone from novice plant owners to experienced interior designers can find what they need.

ArtSource Fine Art Find the perfect piece for your home at this well-curated store, which recently entered its second generation of family ownership.

4421 Six Forks Road, Suite 123; artsourcefineart.com Atlantic Gardening Company This award-winning gardening center features indoor and outdoor plants and a coffee bar. 5217 Atlantic Avenue; instagram.com/atlanticgardening Cheshire Cat Antique Gallery This favorite antiques destination in the Village District offers unique pieces from over 100 dealers in its 20,000-square-foot underground gallery. 2050 Clark Avenue; instagram.com/cheshirecatgallery Closets by Design From walk-in closets to garage spac-

Fifth Season Gardening This plant shop, which specializes in indoor plants and organic gardening, also has an outdoor nursery housing organically grown shrubs, vegetables and herbs. 1930 Wake Forest Road; fifthseasongardening.com Fleur Boutique This boutique offers curated home collections, blending Southern sensibilities with a modern, polished edge. 4209-126 Lassiter Mill Road; fleur-boutique.com Gallery C A fine art gallery within a historic residence near Historic Oakwood, Gallery C features contemporary artists as well as unique historical pieces.

540 N. Blount Street; galleryc.net Green Front Furniture This showroom has a large, wellcurated selection of furniture, lighting, rugs and decorative accessories in a range of styles, from traditional to contemporary. 2004 Yonkers Road; greenfront.com OUR TOWN | 21

EXPLORE Homewood Nursery & Garden Center This sprawling paradise for plant lovers provides garden supplies, landscaping and houseplants at its four-acre lot. 10809 Honeycutt Road; homewoodnursery.com

La Maison This home boutique offers furniture, art and lighting with a traditional Southern bent, plus a floral shop next door. 4421 Six Forks Road, Suite 101; lamaisonraleigh.com Logan’s Garden Shop Family-owned since 1965, Logan’s is a favorite for indoor and outdoor plants, birdseed, planters and gardening needs. 1208 Farmers Market Drive; logantrd.com Pigfish Lane Antiques This award-winning small business offers a diverse collection of antique finds including lighting, furniture, jewelry, rugs and art. 5425 Hillsborough Street; pigfishlane.com Union Camp Collective Head here for a trove of vintage and antique finds, curated by Raleigh tastemaker Charlotte Smith Jeffers.

115 Old Williamson Road; unioncampcollective.com Urban Pothos Houseplant Shop At this shop, find dozens of shelves full of vibrant plants and accessories. 1101 E. Whitaker Mill Road; urbanpothoshouseplantshopnc.com

22 | OUR TOWN

Clockwise from top left: TrenLend; Main & Taylor; Fox & Bailey.

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Fink’s Jewelers Family-owned since 1930, Fink’s is an authorized Rolex retailer. Besides watches, it also sells a variety of jewelry, including engagement rings and designer brands. 4321 Lassiter Mill Road, Suite 120; finks.com

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry Family-owned for three generations and the largest jewelry store in North Carolina, Bailey’s offers a wide selection of fine jewelry, crystal, silver and other gifts. Find watches in its speakeasy-style storewithin-a-store, Fox & Bailey. 415 Daniels Street; baileybox.com

The Flourish Market A mission-driven store from entrepreneur Emily Grey, this is a great spot for trend-forward dresses and other clothing, plus giftables like bath goods, accessories, books and candles. 2201 Iron Works Drive, Suite 101; theflourishmarket.com

Our city has no shortage of passion for fashion, and many trend-savvy natives have opened their own boutiques, jewelry stores and curated shops. These are locals’ favorite destinations for the next great outfit.

Charlotte’s It’s known as a clothing shop, but here you can also find a beautiful piece of jewelry, a thoughtful gift and home décor all in one place.

2034 Cameron Street; charlottesinc. com

Great Outdoor Provision Co. Best known as an outfitter for nature-lover gear like fishing and camping supplies, this shop has a great selection of men’s and women’s clothing from outdoorsy brands like Vuori and Patagonia. 2017 Cameron Street; greatoutdoorprovision.com

courtesy Trenlend, Main & Taylor, Fox & Bailey

Keel & Company Founders Charlie Keeling and Keely Beal specialize in collecting American and Dutch-made mid-century furniture, and their inventory changes weekly. 111 Old Williamson Road, Suite 103; keelandcompany.com

and accessories. 4361 Lassiter Mill Road, Suite C-100; petermillar.com

courtesy Haydon & Co.; Tim Lytvinenko (RALEIGH DENIM); courtesy Fab Foo / Stephen Thrift

Raleigh Denim Workshop Every pair of jeans here is hand cut, sewn and signed in small batches at this downtown workshop that’s known for dressing musicians and celebs even beyond Raleigh. 319 W. Martin Street; raleighdenim.com Reliable Jewelry A Raleigh establishment for nearly 80 years, this family-owned jeweler offers expert design, customer service and customization, plus a selection of estate jewelry. 345 S. Wilmington Street; reliablejewelry.com

Clockwise from left: Haydon & Co.; Raleigh Denim Workshop; The Fab Foo.

Haydon & Co. This Raleigh-only jeweler is a small company offering personal customer service and high-end jewelry, independent of the big brands. 1803 Oberlin Road; haydonco.com Kannon’s Family-owned for four generations, Kannon’s offers timeless clothing and in-store alterations with expert tailors. Women’s location at 2015 Cameron Street, men’s location at 435 Daniels Street; kannonsclothing.com Main & Taylor A premier small business selling women’s designer shoes and handbags while prioritizing hospitality and love for its community. 4421 Six Forks Road; mainandtaylorshoes.com MODE Find gently loved items from highend brands including Chanel and

Lululemon at this upscale consignment shop. 510 Daniels Street; modeconsignment.com Monkee’s This women’s boutique offers curated high-end designer fashion and personal styling appointments. 4158 Main at North Hills Street, Suite 100; monkeesofraleigh.com Nashona This African-inspired women’s boutique offers a selection of colorful clothing, all handmade from Tanzanian fabrics. A portion of all proceeds goes directly to the Shalom Orphanage in Karatu, Tanzania. 21 W. Hargett Street; nashona.com Peter Millar A national chain with Raleigh roots, this upscale men’s store has a wide selection of button-downs, cashmere sweaters, golf apparel, shoes

Revolver This longtime consignment shop offers sustainably sourced designer clothing. 610-101 Hillsborough Street; revolverboutique.com TrenLend Perfect for finding an outfit for that one special occasion, this curated boutique started by two NC State students offers dresses both for rental and for purchase. 540 St. Albans Drive, Suite 122; trenlend.com Uniquities With locations at both North Hills and the Village District, this boutique is a destination for elevated and timeless women’s fashion. 4209 Lassiter Mill Road or 450 Daniels Street; uniquities.com Vermillion This female-owned, 20-year-old store stocks directional designer clothing, shoes, bags and jewelry with an eye for statement-making pieces. 4350 Lassiter at North Hills Avenue, Suite 110; vermillionstyle.com

OUR TOWN | 23

EXPLORE GIFTS & BOOKS

There are hidden gems all over town to fill out any kind of collection.

These Raleigh-owned stores offer stationery, gifts, records and books and are beloved for the unique P.O.V. that only a local shop can offer.

The Bittery Restock the bar cart at this tiny cocktail supply shop that sells bitters, syrups and dried fruits. 501 E. Davie Street; thebittery.xyz Blackbird Books & Coffee Part bookstore and part coffee shop, Blackbird is a friendly spot in City Market where you can sip a seasonal latte while you shop the latest bestsellers. 323 Blake Street; blackbirdbooksandcoffee.com Bright Side Books & Wine This recent addition to the Raleigh bookstore scene stocks its shelves with romance novels and giftables.

600 W. Cabarrus Street; brightsidebooksandwine.com Dalhouse Inside its pink storefront (that does indeed resemble a dollhouse), this children’s boutique offers darling clothing and gifts for young ones.

2003 Fairview Road, Suite C; wearedalhouse.com DECO Raleigh This colorful shop has thoughtful items from housewares to toys to art — many by local makers — plus great Raleigh souvenirs. 207 S. Salisbury Street; decoraleigh.com Edge of Urge The shelves of this quirky shop are filled to the brim with stylish, edgy and entertaining oddities, many of which are made by independent

24 | OUR TOWN

and local designers. 215 E. Franklin Street, #110; edgeofurge.com Escazú Chocolates A specialty shop selling handmade, micro-batch chocolates, with ice cream, guided tours and monthly chocolate subscriptions available.

2409 Crabtree Boulevard, Suite 124; escazuchocolates.com The Fab Foo The prime shopping location for vintage-inspired glassware and fun cocktail gear for celebrations and general enjoyment. 606 Wade Avenue; thefabfoo.com The Fort A semi-secret neighborhood hideaway with a thoughtfully selected collection of new and vintage gifts and home goods — but you have to get on its email list to find out when it’s open. 3512 Clark Avenue; thefort3512.com Hunky Dory Records A quirky record shop with new and used vinyl that also offers a selection of craft beers from local breweries, so you can sip while you shop. 1101 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Suite 114; hunkydoryvinyl.com If It’s Paper A family-owned local business that’s a one-stop shop for stationery, paper products and all things party-related. 445 Daniels Street; ifitspaper.org NOFO @ The Pig Housed inside a former Piggly Wiggly, NOFO’s shelves brim with giftables from scarves and jewelry to children’s toys, candles and home décor. 2014 Fairview Road; nofo.com

Paper Buzz A local shop with a robust collection of classic Southern gifts and stationery. 209 Lassiter Mill Road; paperbuzz.com Quail Ridge Books This longtime indie bookstore features a large, bright space full of best-sellers and local reads and frequently hosts author events and book clubs. 4209 Lassiter Mill Road, Suite 100; quailridgebooks.com Quintessentials This tabletop and linens destination stocks fine china, crystal and luxury bed and bath essentials from coveted brands, plus a bridal registry.

4209 Lassiter Mill Road, Suite 119; shopquintessentials.com Schoolkids Records A Raleigh record destination since 1974, buying and selling vinyls, CDs, cassettes and turntables. 2237 Avent Ferry Road, Suite 101; schoolkidsrecords.com So & So Books A classic indie bookstore with all the must-reads, plus tables dedicated to regional authors, gifts and more. 719 N. Person Street; soandsobooks.com Unlikely Professionals A quirky men’s general store located in the new Makers Alley that also doubles as a dive bar, carrying a wide selection of outdoorsy clothing, shoes and gifts. 540 Saint Albans Drive; unlikelyprofessionals.com Videri Chocolate Factory This charming shop sells stunning confections made in its on-site factory. 327 W. Davie Street, Suite 100; viderichocolatefactory.com

EXPLORE

ARTS & CULTURE

F

ANCHORLIGHT A warehouse-turned-studio space, Anchorlight was co-founded in 2017 and hosts regular exhibits, a residency program and a biannual open house, where collectors may find work for purchase. 1407 S. Bloodworth Street; anchorlightraleigh.com ARTSPACE This nonprofit studio and exhibit space hosts a mix of established and emerging artists. Its First Fridays offer creative programming, unique exhibits and, often, a great DJ. 201 E. Davie Street; artspacenc.org CAROLINA BALLET Based in Raleigh, this professional ballet company presents a mix of beloved classics and contemporary works, pairing world-class dancers with innovative choreography. carolinaballet.com CAROLINA THEATRE This ornate historic venue hosts indie films, live concerts and eclectic performances. 309 W. Morgan Street, Durham; carolinatheatre.org

26 | OUR TOWN

The Carolina Ballet at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts.

CAT’S CRADLE A legendary institution where indie rock, cult-favorite bands and rising touring acts collide in an intimate setting. 300 E. Main Street, Carrboro; catscradle.com CHAMBER MUSIC RALEIGH This organization brings acclaimed musicians together for immersive, high-caliber small-ensemble concerts. chambermusicraleigh.org COASTAL CREDIT UNION MUSIC PARK Tucked into the woods near Walnut Creek Park, this massive openair amphitheater brings in some of the biggest artists in the world.

3801 Rock Quarry Road; coastalcreditunionmusicpark.com DURHAM PERFORMING ARTS CENTER (DPAC) This polished venue brings in

Broadway musicals, comedy giants and large-scale productions. 123 Vivian Street, Durham; dpacnc.com KINGS RALEIGH This upstairs venue books local bands and touring indie talent. A popular annual showcase: The Great Cover Up, which features Triangle talent performing as famous groups.

14 W. Martin Street; kingsraleigh.com KOKA BOOTH AMPHITHEATRE This picturesque outdoor venue hosts the North Carolina Symphony in the summer, along with concerts, cultural festivals and movie nights year-round. 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary; boothamphitheatre.com LINCOLN THEATRE This historic club venue hosts live music ranging from rising local acts to nationally touring rock, indie and alternative artists in a high-energy

Justin Kase Conder

rom intimate sets by emerging musicians to expert staging of Broadway hits, you can find every kind of performing and visual arts event in Raleigh and the Triangle. Here, we’re lucky to be home to several of the state’s leading organizations, but also a big enough market to attract touring musicians and exhibits. Whether you’re looking to see a ballet, concert, musical, art exhibit or more, look to one of these companies, venues and galleries for your next night out.

Joshua Steadman (MICHELLE WILKIE); courtesy NC Symphony

world’s most important makers, plus the largest collection of sculptures

by Auguste Rodin in the region.

The adjoining Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park spans 164 acres with paths leading past large-scale outdoor art. 2110 Blue Ridge Road; ncartmuseum.org NORTH CAROLINA SYMPHONY Based in Raleigh, the state’s flagship orchestra performs everything from classical masterworks to pops concerts, drawing acclaimed guest artists, with statewide performances and music education initiatives year-round. ncsymphony.org

Top: Michelle Wilkie’s studio in Artspace.

Bottom: A symphony performance.

setting with a general admission floor and an upstairs balcony. 126 E. Cabarrus Street; lincolntheatre.com MARTIN MARIETTA CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS Raleigh’s performing arts complex includes three halls, which regularly host the symphony, opera and ballet, plus touring acts. 2 E. South Street; martinmariettacenter.com NORTH CAROLINA MASTER CHORALE This semi-professional choral organization hosts several concerts throughout the year and provides choral support for the symphony and ballet. ncmasterchorale.org NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART (NCMA) With more than 40 galleries spanning 5,000 years, the People’s Collection includes some of the

THE POUR HOUSE MUSIC HALL & RECORD SHOP This intimate live music venue doubles as an upstairs record shop and bar, showcasing everything from local up-and-coming acts to nationally touring indie and alternative artists. 224 S. Blount Street; pourhouseraleigh.com PULLEN ARTS CENTER Inside Pullen Park, this arts center showcases diverse local work in regular exhibitions that support artists of all ages in various practices. 105 Pullen Road; raleighnc.gov RALEIGH LITTLE THEATRE Opened in 1936, this is one of the oldest continuously operating theaters in the country. In warm weather, it hosts shows outside in the Stephenson Amphitheatre. 301 Pogue Street; raleighlittletheatre.org THE RALEIGH RINGERS This internationally acclaimed handbell ensemble is known for its popular holiday performances, plus touring programs across the U.S. and abroad. rr.org

RED HAT AMPHITHEATER This open-air downtown venue showcases big-name artists and is within walking distance of tons of restaurants and bars. 500 S. McDowell Street until 2027, then 205 W. Lenoir Street; redhatamphitheater.com THE RIALTO A restored 1940s cinema and event space, The Rialto showcases indie films, cult classics, live music, comedy, special screenings and more.

1620 Glenwood Avenue; therialto.com THE RITZ This lovably grungy club venue pulls in a diverse range of talent, from country crooners to rap artists.

2820 Industrial Drive; ritzraleigh.com SERTOMA ARTS CENTER Housed within Shelley Lake Park, this City of Raleigh arts center serves as a creative hub for visual artists of all levels with rotating exhibitions, studio spaces and instruction that support hands-on practice across multiple mediums. 1400 W. Millbrook Road; raleighnc.gov THEATRE IN THE PARK Tucked inside Pullen Park, this black box theatre delivers bold, up-close productions ranging from classic plays to inventive new works in a space that makes every seat feel immersive. 107 Pullen Road; theatreinthepark.com THEATRE RALEIGH This theater produces both bigname shows and productions by emerging artists, often bringing in Broadway headliners. Young ones will particularly love the performances from its Raleigh ACT children’s programs. 6638 Old Wake Forest Road; theatreraleigh.com OUR TOWN | 27

EXPLORE

MUSEUMS

CITY OF RALEIGH MUSEUM Housed in the historic 1874 Briggs Hardware Building on Fayetteville Street, this free museum explores Raleigh’s past, present and future through rotating exhibits and interactive storytelling. 220 Fayetteville Street; raleighnc.gov GREGG MUSEUM OF ART & DESIGN Part of North Carolina State University, this museum holds a massive collection that encompasses more than 35,000 objects including textiles, Native American art, photography and outsider art. 1903 Hillsborough Street; gregg.arts.ncsu.edu JOEL LANE MUSEUM HOUSE This nonprofit museum preserves the home of Colonel Joel Lane, the man considered the founding father of Raleigh, with contextual history about his use of enslaved labor. 160 S. St. Mary’s Street; joellane.org MARBLES KIDS MUSEUM Designed for children ages 0-10, this hands-on museum turns learning into play with interactive exhibits, imaginative adventures and an IMAX theater. 201 E. Hargett Street; marbleskidsmuseum.org MORDECAI HISTORIC PARK The Mordecai House is the oldest

28 | OUR TOWN

Clockwise from top left: City of Raleigh Museum; Gregg Museum of Art & Design; Randleigh Dairy Heritage Museum.

house in Raleigh in its original location, built by Colonel Joel Lane for his son Henry in 1785. 1 Mimosa Street; raleighnc.gov NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF HISTORY This museum shares our state’s story through engaging artifacts and exhibitions. The flagship building is closed for renovations, but you can find online programming and traveling exhibits at historic sites across the state. ncmuseumofhistory.org NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCES The largest natural sciences museum in the Southeast and one of the most visited museums in the state, this institution brings science to life through live animal exhibits and real-time research labs. 11 W. Jones Street; naturalsciences.org

NORTH CAROLINA STATE CAPITOL This historic building once housed all three branches of state government.

Now, it offers free guided tours that bring North Carolina’s political history and architecture to life. 1 E. Edenton Street; historicsites.nc.gov POPE HOUSE MUSEUM This 1901 home was the residence of Dr. Manassa Thomas Pope, a man who challenged voting laws and became the only African American to run for mayor of a capital city in the South during the Jim Crow era. 511 S. Wilmington Street; raleighnc.gov RANDLEIGH DAIRY HERITAGE MUSEUM This interactive museum at NC State’s Dairy Farm offers a behindthe-scenes look at how milk gets from the farm to the table. Plus, visitors get to sample ice cream! 301 Dairy Lane; howlingcow.ncsu.edu

courtesy COR Museum; courtesy Gregg Museum of Art & Design; courtesy Randleigh Dairy Heritage Museum

N

o wonder Raleigh has earned the unofficial title of “the Smithsonian of the South”: here, we have everything from major institutions housing internationally recognized collections to niche cultural spaces, highlighting nature, history and diverse perspectives across every corner of cultural life.

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EXPLORE

NATURE & RECREATION

R

aleigh makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the city behind. Here, you’ll find wooded trails, scenic lakes, public gardens and expansive parks that offer everything from energizing hikes to quiet picnic spots. With mostly mild weather throughout the year, these green spaces remain accessible across the seasons, whether you’re seeking adventure, exercise or a quiet place to relax.

This sprawling park on the North Carolina Museum of Art grounds features various art installations, including Thomas Sayre’s iconic Gyre, a favorite postcard shot. Sit in the courtyard near the amphitheater, head to the Ellipse lawn for the views or follow the trails deeper into the park to set up shop away from the crowd. Bonus: Picnicking here offers easy access to the museum, where you can find restrooms, coffee and to-go food options in the West Building. 2110 Blue Ridge Road; ncartmuseum.org

CAPITAL AREA GREENWAY SYSTEM

Raleigh’s extensive greenway system connects more than 100 miles of paved trails that wind through wetlands, forests, neighborhoods and along scenic waterways, offering some of the city’s most accessible outdoor recreation. Popular for walking, running and cycling, the network also makes it easy to move between different parts of the city while staying surrounded by nature.

Various access points; raleighnc.gov

30 | OUR TOWN

Gipson Play Plaza at Dorothea Dix Park.

CARL ALWIN SCHENCK MEMORIAL FOREST

Schenck is managed by NC State’s College of Natural Resources. It’s named for Carl Alwin Schenck, a pioneer in American forestry education. Here, unpaved trails wind through pine stands and rolling terrain, making it a destination for hiking and trail running. Reedy Creek Road; schenckforest.ncsu.edu

DOROTHEA DIX PARK

Dix Park’s 308 acres have something for everyone. There are art installations throughout, and Flowers Field offers a photogenic view of the downtown skyline.

At the Stone Houses you can find restrooms and snacks. If you have little ones, the Gipson Play Plaza is a must with its towering climbing structures, giant waterfall, sensory garden and sand bowl. At the nearby House of Many Porches,

find restrooms plus beer, wine and snacks. 1030 Richardson Drive; dorotheadixpark.org

FALLS LAKE STATE RECREATION AREA

Falls Lake offers miles of forested trails that weave between quiet coves and sandy shorelines. The terrain feels remote, making it a favorite for longer hikes and weekend resets. 13304 Creedmoor Road, Wake Forest; ncparks.gov

HISTORIC OAK VIEW COUNTY PARK

This Wake County-run historic park includes a pecan grove, picturesque white gazebos and a broad lawn, which is not far from the animals on the property (including goats and chickens!). There are restrooms in the visitors center, where you can find history exhibits and activities for kids. 4028 Carya Drive; wake.gov

Art Howard

ANN AND JIM GOODNIGHT MUSEUM PARK

Gus Samarco (ANN AND JIM GOODNIGHT MUSEUM PARK); Juli Leonard (WRAL AZALEA GARDEN)

JOHN CHAVIS MEMORIAL PARK

Chavis Park in Southeast Raleigh was founded in 1937 as one of the few parks of its size accessible to Black Americans in the South. Its community center has an exhibit that pays homage to its complex history, but outside, it’s all about the kids, with unique climbing structures, sky-high slides and a splash pad. 505 Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard; raleighnc.gov

LAKE JOHNSON PARK

Top: The Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. Bottom: WRAL Azalea Garden.

HISTORIC YATES MILL COUNTY PARK

Step back in time at this park surrounding the 20-acre Yates Mill Pond, where you can see water run through the county’s oldest still-running water-powered grist mill. Set up in the picnic shelters around the property or walk the trails that circle the lake. There are public restrooms in the visitors center. 4620 Lake Wheeler Road; wake.gov

JC RAULSTON ARBORETUM

This botanical garden associated with NC State boasts an expansive collection of native and exotic plants, with something to see at every turn. Visit the Japanese Garden, Elm Circle or Finley-Nottingham Rose Garden to see what’s in bloom — with 10 acres to meander, there are a variety of settings to explore.

Find public restrooms in the visitors center. 4415 Beryl Road; jcra.ncsu.edu

Centered around a calm urban lake, this park features a mix of wooded boardwalks and lakeside trails that balance convenience with an immersive natural feel. The loop trail offers water views, occasional wildlife sightings and a peaceful escape just minutes from downtown. 4601 Avent Ferry Road, Raleigh; raleighnc.gov

MOORE SQUARE

Nestled right into downtown, Moore Square is a great spot for peoplewatching, especially on evenings and weekends. Here, you’ll find a wideopen lawn, small play area, picnic tables and bench seating along its sidewalks, plus public restrooms and the Lucky Tree Bakery and Coffeehouse on the grounds. 201 S. Blount Street; raleighnc.gov

PULLEN PARK

Founded in 1887, Raleigh’s beloved Pullen Park is the oldest public park in North Carolina. The park blends nostalgia with adventure, featuring old-school amusements like a carousel and train, as well as a modern-day playground with structures for all ages. Shade trees and paddle boats make it a family favorite for generations. 520 Ashe Avenue; raleighnc.gov

RALEIGH-DURHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OBSERVATION PARK

This under-the-radar spot is near the airport’s traffic control tower, offering excellent runway views from the second level of an openair overlook, where you can watch flights arrive and depart. There’s also a ground-level grassy area with a few picnic benches and play structures, public restrooms and free parking. W. International Drive, Morrisville; rdu.com/observation-park

RALEIGH ROSE GARDEN

Maintained by city employees and volunteers, this garden offers beautiful scents and colors in the warmer months, with a wide lawn surrounded by old-growth trees.

Note: no restrooms on site. 301 Pogue Street; raleighlittletheatre.org

WILLIAM B. UMSTEAD STATE PARK

Built in 1810, a mill flourished here for about a century before the family moved. Then the mill and surrounding farmland, which had been worked to depletion, were purchased by the federal government. Trees were planted and the area became a state park. Today, find trails for hiking and biking — and you can still see remains of a dam wall, as well as a millstone, near the trail on the north bank of Crabtree Creek. 2100 N. Harrison Avenue, Cary; ncparks.gov

WRAL AZALEA GARDENS

At this 1.5-acre park, find fountains, artwork and peaceful trails underneath tall trees. In early spring, it’s alive with color from prolifically blooming azaleas and rhododendrons. 2619 Western Boulevard; wralgardens.com OUR TOWN | 31

EXPLORE

RECREATIONAL LAKES

T

he Raleigh area is home to several public lakes that make it easy to spend a day on the water. From the busier, motorboatfriendly Falls Lake to the quiet Lake Crabtree, these lakes offer opportunities for all sorts of recreation, from paddling and boating to fishing and swimming.

About 30 minutes from downtown Raleigh in the Fred G. Bond Metro Park, this lake is run by the Town of Cary. Here, you can rent kayaks, pedal boats, paddleboards and sailboats or bring your own to the public boat launch; note that no gas-powered vessels are allowed. 801 High House Road, Cary; carync.gov

FALLS LAKE

About 45 minutes from downtown, Falls Lake State Recreation Area has three designated swimming areas, plus numerous spots to drop in kayaks or boats. You can also rent pontoon and speed boats, jet skis, tubes and fishing boats through Motor-Boatin’ at Falls Lake (motor-boatin.com) or BBB Boat Rentals (bbbboatrentals.com). 13304 Creedmoor Road, Wake Forest; ncparks.gov

JORDAN LAKE

Jordan Lake offers more than 13,000 acres of water about 30 miles from downtown. Nine access points offer spots to swim, put in a boat, hike or camp near the water.

It’s especially popular for fishing and birdwatching. Visitors can rent kayaks and paddleboards through WakeRack (wakerack.com). 280 State Park Road, Apex; ncparks.gov

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Clockwise from top left: Falls Lake; Lake Crabtree; Bond Lake.

LAKE CRABTREE

This quiet lake has a swim access spot and offers free rentals for double and single kayaks, pedal boats and stand-up paddleboards.

It’s also popular for leisure fishing, as you can cast a line from the platform near the boathouse. Note: motorized vessels are prohibited.

1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville; wake.gov

LAKE JOHNSON

Ten minutes from downtown, this tranquil lake is surrounded by more than 300 acres of woodlands. Access points include the Waterfront Center and Thomas G. Crowder Woodland Center, as well as two trailheads. Visitors can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards via WakeRack (wakerack.com), and the pier by Avent Ferry Road is a popular fishing spot. 4601 Avent Ferry Road; raleighnc.gov

LAKE RALEIGH

A hidden gem for nature lovers, this lake on NC State’s Centennial Campus is great for launching your own canoes, kayaks or stand-up paddleboards. There isn’t an official swimming area, but there are plenty of spots to tuck in for a picnic, as well as a fishing pier. 2300 Main Campus Drive; centennial.ncsu.edu

LAKE WHEELER

Less than 20 minutes south of downtown, Lake Wheeler Park offers shaded, sandy spots to relax near the water, as well as a canoe drop-in spot and personal boat launch. Small motorized boats (excluding jet skis), skiing and tubing are allowed, but swimming is not; visitors can also rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards via WakeRack (wakerack.com). 6404 Lake Wheeler Road; raleighnc.gov

Geoff Wood

BOND LAKE

“Raleigh’s Best Retail Wine Selection” — WINE SEARCHER

For tickets and full calendar visit westgatewinestore.com Weekly delivery to the Triangle!

Thoughtfully curated selections including everything from everyday favorites to sought-after bottles for collectors and special celebrations.

6405 WESTGATE ROAD #115, RALEIGH 27617 919.787.4290

PARTNERS

courtesy ICG Homes (HOME); Liz Condo (HL CATERING); Anna Barzin for The Umstead Hotel and Spa (POOL)

THE JIM ALLEN GROUP Led by an award-winning, longtime Raleigh realtor, The Jim Allen Group employs more than 50 local professionals — plus a proprietary Sold It in a Snap program — to make selling a home a simple and smooth process. 5000 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 100; jimallen.com NORTH STATE BANK This North Carolina-owned bank is truly committed to the community, from its annual fundraiser for Transitions LifeCare to partnerships with local home services. Multiple locations including 6204 Falls of Neuse Road or 4270 The Circle at North Hills; northstatebank.com Clockwise from left: ICG Homes; HL Catering; The Umstead Hotel and Spa.

LIVING WELL

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o matter where you are in your journey — settling into a first home, eyeing a new neighborhood or streamlining your lifestyle — these resources can help you make the most of Raleigh.

BLUE WATER SPA Owned and operated by board-certified plastic surgeon Michael Law, M.D., this award-winning medical spa offers Botox, dermal fillers, laser hair removal, facials and body treatments. 10941 Raven Ridge Road, Suite 103 or 4205 Corners Parkway, Suite 110; bluewaterspa.com G3 ROOFING Three Raleigh friends — Earl Johnson III, Lee Gregory III and Tommy King — started this statewide

company, which can take care of all residential roofing needs, from replacements to small leaks, working with materials like cedar, slate, metal and tile. 3008 Anderson Drive, Suite 210C; g3roof.com HL CATERING This full-service catering company crafts custom menus for weddings, corporate events and celebrations of all sizes, pairing extraordinary food with outstanding service to make sure every detail — and every guest — feels taken care of. 1632 N. Market Drive; hlcatering.com ICG HOMES ICG Homes, an award-winning company started by Ryan Perry, a Wake County native, builds gorgeous, top-quality custom homes, meant to stay in families for generations. 4020 Wake Forest Road, Suite 306; icghomes.com

THE OAKS AT WHITAKER GLEN A beautiful, highly rated senior living community in Five Points, The Oaks at Whitaker Glen offers residents wellness, recreation opportunities, fine dining, access to culture and qualified healthcare services. 501 E. Whitaker Mill Road; oaksatwhitakerglen.com THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA This five-star luxury hotel offers elegant rooms, a serene spa, a notable art collection and Herons, its exquisite farm-to-table restaurant, making it a favorite retreat for both Triangle locals and visitors seeking an elevated escape. 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary; theumstead.com WESTGATE WINE This wine shop stocks an impressive selection, from rare 100-point bottles to everyday favorites. The knowledgeable staff offers personalized recommendations for your collection, a dinner party or a special gift. 6405 Westgate Road, Suite 115; westgatewinestore.com OUR TOWN | 35

G3 ROofing COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

Quality of Work & Your Peace of Mind Are Our Top Priorities G3 is owned and operated by three Raleigh-born friends with roots going back to high school. Collectively we have over 65 years of roofing and construction experience. You will work directly with us -Earl, Tommy or Leefrom start to finish. We’re committed to serving our customers in our local community. This is what sets G3 Roofing apart.

(919) 213-6005 www.G3roof.com

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK As Raleigh has grown, its neighborhoods have evolved their own distinct personalities. Here are five worth exploring.

Forrest Mason

Barcelona Wine Bar

Longtime Raleighites will know that we’ve always had good food — some of our favorite restaurants have been serving up delicious dishes since the 1930s! But Raleigh’s hospitality scene has been growing alongside its population, bringing in a fresh wave of culinary experiences for every palate. In 2025, we celebrated our first appearance in the MICHELIN Guide for the American South, with 14 restaurants in the area earning placements on the Bib Gourmand and Recommended lists. Beyond the food, our beverage scene has expanded, offering everything from upscale cocktail concepts to local breweries to friendly neighborhood taverns. Whether you find yourself craving classic North Carolina barbecue or want to get adventurous with new-to-you flavors, you’ll find that options abound. Here are the spots we recommend.

OUR TOWN | 37

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

COFFEE & BAKED GOODS

321 COFFEE 321’s mission is to use its shops to bridge the employment gap for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities by providing career opportunities while simultaneously serving delicious brews. 615 Hillsborough Street & 1209 Farmers Market Drive; 321coffee.com 42 & LAWRENCE Just off Moore Square, this offshoot of local roaster Larry’s Coffee specializes in unique coffee, lattes, tea and seasonal beverages. 134 E. Martin Street; 42lawrence.com BLACK & WHITE Scents of Videri chocolate waft through the air at this Warehouse District locale with a private courtyard. It has a solid coffee and pastry program, with beans roasted in Raleigh. 327 W. Davie Street; blackwhiteroasters.com BLACKBIRD BOOKS & COFFEE This independent bookstore and cafe in City Market offers curated books, specialty coffee and a cozy community space with events and local goods. 323 Blake Street; blackbirdbooksandcoffee.com

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Clockwise from top left: Sir Walter Coffee; Blackbird Books & Coffee; The Optimist.

BOULTED BREAD A neighborhood bakery with national acclaim, Boulted often sells out of its pastries by the afternoon.

Here, find breads made from heirloom grains, milled in-house, in an airy, industrial atmosphere. 328 Dupont Circle; boultedbread.com CUP A JOE A go-to coffee spot for NC State students, professors and anyone else nearby, this longtime shop offers tons of roasts, a friendly staff and plenty of seating to post up with a laptop. 3100 Hillsborough Street; cupajoe.com DRIFT COFFEE & KITCHEN This surf-inspired cafe’s offerings include breakfast bowls, yogurt and a popular breakfast burrito. Stop by on Wade Avenue or at its new location in RTP. 3510 Wade Avenue; driftcoffee.kitchen

HEIRLOOM This airy downtown cafe serves coffee, tea and all-day dishes inspired by global flavors in an Instagram-worthy locale. 219 S. West Street; heirloom-raleigh.com IDLE HOUR COFFEE This inviting, city-style cafe features bright-yellow bistro tables, food from local businesses like Tepuy Donuts and work from rotating artists on its walls. 1818 Oberlin Road; idle-hour-coffee.square.site IRIS COFFEE LAB Coffee aficionados love this minimalist shop, which serves rotating specialty coffees as well as a full-service breakfast and lunch menu. 725 Tucker Street; iriscoffeelab.com JUBALA COFFEE Known for its delicious sandwiches and biscuits, Jubala has three

Joshua Steadman (BLACKBIRD BOOKS & COFFEE); Bryan Regan (SIR WALTER COFFEE, THE OPTIMIST)

R

aleigh’s coffee and bakery scene offers something for every palate and preference, with stellar roasters and folks who bake from scratch to get their dough just right. And as the city has grown, more artisanal cafes have popped up, with personalities as diverse as their neighborhoods.

Eamon Queeney (UNION SPECIAL); Bob Karp (LA FARM BAKERY); Bryan Regan (IRIS COFFEE LAB)

PAUL & JACK This European-style cafe serves decadent pastries and espresso drinks — and it’s open later than most bakeries. 911 N. West Street, Suite 107; instagram.com/paulandjack_nc PINE STATE COFFEE This quirky spot just off Capital Boulevard is a favorite for the running and biking crew. Make a new friend at one of its community tables! 1614 Automotive Way; pinestatecoffee.com

Clockwise from left: Union Special Bread; La Farm Bakery; Iris Coffee Lab.

modern locations that serve quality espresso, coffee and tea. Various locations; jubalacoffee.com LA FARM BAKERY Helmed by Lionel Vatinet, La Farm serves artisanal breads, breakfast and baked goods, all with French influences. 122 Glenwood Avenue & 404 E. Six Forks Road; lafarmbakery.com LITTLE NATIVE COFFEE CO. An oasis off bustling Person Street, Little Native is outfitted in dark hues and leather benches, with shaded seating outside. Ask about the secret tea room! 426 S. Person Street; drinklittlenative.com LUCETTEGRACE This downtown pastry shop offers French-inspired desserts, cakes and espresso drinks in a refined, modern setting. 235 S. Salisbury Street; lucettegrace.com

LUCKY TREE BAKERY AND COFFEEHOUSE Find great brews at this classic college coffeehouse across from Meredith College, or at its smaller sister location in Moore Square. 3801 Hillsborough Street, Suite 137 & 225 E. Martin Street; luckytreeraleigh.com THE MORNING TIMES This downtown cafe serves breakfast, brunch and coffee staples like biscuits, burritos and espresso drinks in a casual, lively space. 10 E. Hargett Street; morningtimes-raleigh.com THE OPTIMIST Here, you’ll find a full range of coffee, tea and pastries, along with signature drinks, in a spot that’s always bustling with remote workers. 1000 Brookside Drive, Suite 109; theoptimistraleigh.com

SIR WALTER COFFEE This lively coffee bar downtown offers espresso drinks, tea-based cocktails and light bites in a social, bar-style setting that transitions into a casual evening hangout spot.

145 E. Davie Street & 555 Fayetteville Street, Suite 110; sirwaltercoffee.com SOLA COFFEE CAFE A sweet family-run spot in North Raleigh that offers lunch alongside its coffee and breakfast program. In honor of the late co-owner Jeanne Luther, the cafe also hosts the popular and impactful Sola Hot Mini 5K to raise funds for ALS. 7705 Lead Mine Road; solacoffee.com UNION SPECIAL BREAD Union Special offers decadent pastries and breads, unique breakfast creations and great drip coffee, teas and espresso drinks in Gateway Plaza. 2409 Crabtree Boulevard, #102; unionspecialbread.com YELLOW DOG BREAD CO. This sunny, family-owned bakery in the Person Street corridor has fresh breads, fun coffee drinks and classic cafe seating inside and out to enjoy its goods. 219 E. Franklin Street; yellowdogbread.com OUR TOWN | 39

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

BREAKFAST

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A PLACE AT THE TABLE Part restaurant, part nonprofit, this pay-what-you-can spot founded

by Maggie Kane offers a menu of American classics. 300 W. Hargett Street, Suite 50; tableraleigh.org BENCHWARMERS BAGELS A well-loved morning spot for its wood-fired artisanal bagels, inventive spreads and sandwiches. 500 E. Davie Street, Suite 107 or 1015 S. Saunders Street; benchwarmersbagels. com BIG ED’S RESTAURANT Known for its giant portions, this Southern diner offers classic American fare — and often has a line out the door. 220 Wolfe Street & 5009 Falls of Neuse Road; bigedsnc.com CAFE CAROLINA AND BAKERY Find classic Southern fare at this longtime favorite. Locals love the sweet potato biscuits. 2130 Clark Avenue; cafecarolina.com CARROLL’S KITCHEN Serving breakfast and lunch (the quiches are a favorite!), this restaurant employs women recovering from trauma. 230 S. Wilmington Street; carrollskitchen.org COQUETTE BRASSERIE A classic French brasserie, Coquette offers delicious croquettes, quiches, frites and more. 4351 The Circle at North Hills; coquetteraleigh.com

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Clockwise from top left: Coquette; Good Graces; Cafe Carolina and Bakery.

GOOD GRACES Equal parts cafe, bar and market, Good Graces has a lovely, bright interior and something to sate you any time of day, from buttery biscuits in the mornings to espresso martinis at night. 540 Saint Albans Drive, Suite 130; goodgracesraleigh.com THE MECCA RESTAURANT Get a taste of old Raleigh at this classic eatery known for its hearty meals and diner feel. 13 E. Martin Street; mecca-restaurant.com PAM’S FARMHOUSE RESTAURANT A down-home Southern breakfast for a fair price — try the biscuits or the country ham plate. 5111 Western Boulevard; pams-farmhouse-restaurant.menu-world.com PRESS COFFEE, CRÊPES & COCKTAILS This European-influenced coffeehouse offers made-from-scratch

crêpes served all day, in addition to coffee and baked goods. 400 Hillsborough Street, Suite 108; pressccc.com RALEIGH RAW A health-conscious destination for coffee, delicious cold-pressed juices and lighter fare, where all menu items are made from scratch. 7 W. Hargett Street; raleighraw.com SOSTA CAFE A hidden gem downtown, Sosta serves French-infused breakfast dishes, fresh fruit and espresso in a casual setting. 130 E. Davie Street; sostacafe.com STATE FARMERS MARKET RESTAURANT Here, find a Southern breakfast featuring fresh, NC-grown ingredients from the nearby Farmers Market, famous for its fluffy, homemade biscuits. 1240 Farmers Market Drive; realbiscuits.com

courtesy Coquette (COQUETTE); Forrest Mason (GOOD GRACES); Cafe Carolina (TAYLOR McDONALD)

hether you like a healthy meal or a sky-high pile of pancakes, these breakfast spots will start your day right.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK NATURAL SCIENCE In Gateway Plaza, find well-made cocktails and a casual vibe, plus a big outdoor patio. 2409 Crabtree Boulevard, #126; instagram.com/natural_science_bar PELAGIC BEER & WINE This cozy bottle shop pours from 10 rotating draft taps and is a dog-friendly favorite. 300 Pace Street; pelagicbeerandwine.com

Forest Mason

PERSON STREET BAR An anchor of the Person Street corridor, this is a spot to watch a game with friends or to sate a rowdy late-night crew. 805 N. Person Street; instagram.com/personstreetbar Clockwise from left: Natural Science; The Bend Bar; Wolfe & Porter.

LOCAL HAUNTS

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hese spots have earned regulars by offering a casual, inviting atmosphere alongside great drinks and service.

THE BEND BAR This offering from the Trophy Brewing folks has lots of space on its patio and wooded lawn. 853 W. Morgan Street; trophybrewing.com THE CARDINAL BAR This no-frills bar is welcoming to all and offers beer, hot dogs and patio seating. 713 N. West Street; instagram.com/thecardinalbar CRAFTY BEER, WINE & SPIRITS This curated bottle shop has a friendly bar. 2005 Fairview Road; instagram.com/craftybeerwinespirits

EAST BOWER CIDER COMPANY With a great lounging area on the turf lawn, expect house-brewed ciders, rotating beverages from its Pilot Series and more. 2020 Progress Court, Suite 160; eastbowercider.com JOHNSON STREET YACHT CLUB This dive bar (with, yes, a slide) includes a heady cocktail list and a pool table. 710 W. Johnson Street; jsyachtclub.com LE DIVE BAR & FOOD This quirky, inclusive bar has frequent themed events and serves snacks late-night. 14 W. Martin Street; lediveraleigh.com LYNNWOOD BREWING CONCERN At Lynnwood, find house-brewed beers and lots of kid-friendly seating. 1053 E. Whitaker Mill Road; lynnwoodbrewing.com

ROSHAMBO BEVERAGE COMPANY Amid its various games (pinball, pool and foosball), this quirky spot serves beer, wine and even sake! 231A S. East Street; roshambobevco.com SLIM’S A classic dive bar — and Raleigh’s oldest music venue. 227 S. Wilmington Street; slimsraleigh.com SMASH SOCIAL CLUB This spot offers a full menu of bar food and cocktails, along with some old-fashioned fun including darts and shuffleboard. 500 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 300; smashraleigh.com TAP YARD This bar and beer garden offers a full acre of outdoor space, lawn games and food trucks with dogs and kids encouraged. 1610 Automotive Way; tapyardraleigh.com VAULT CRAFT BEER Find rotating taps and a fridge full of options in a restored bank. 518 W. South Street; vaultcraftbeer.com OUR TOWN | 41

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

CASUAL FARE

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AMEDEO’S This family-style Italian restaurant is decorated in NC State sports souvenirs. 3905 Western Boulevard; amedeosrestaurant.com BERKELEY CAFE A longtime Raleigh destination, Berkeley is known for its burgers and live music scene. 428 S. Dawson Street; instagram.com/berkeley_cafe BOWSTRING BREWYARD This warehouse-style space hosts frequent shows and has multiple full bars and pizza. 1930 Wake Forest Road; raleigh.bowstringbrewyard.com

Clockwise from top left: Standard; Amedeo’s; Lola’s Beach Bar.

CENTRO Here, find authentic Mexican fare in a vibrant setting, including tacos, enchiladas and flavorful bowls. 106 S. Wilmington Street; centroraleigh.com

FIVE STAR For more than two decades, Five Star has served fresh, modern Chinese and Asian cuisine in a sleek dining room. 301 N. West Street, Suite 101; fivestarraleigh.com

CHAR-GRILL A classic walk-up burger bar: use a tiny yellow pencil to make your order, then watch it being made. 618 Hillsborough Street; chargrillusa.com DICED A local salad bar that keeps it simple with fresh veggies and homemade dressings. 1028 Oberlin Road, Suite 234 or 121 Fayetteville Street, Suite 108; eatdiced.com EASTCUT SANDWICH BAR This spot serves giant sandwiches and salads in a bright, casual loca-

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tion. 1101 E. Whitaker Mill Road; eastcutsandwich.com

GRINGO A GO GO This quirky Mexican restaurant has a large patio surrounded by lush plants that always feels festive — plus fun rotating margaritas. 100 N. Person Street; gringoraleigh.com HAYES BARTON CAFE & DESSERTERY This 1940s-style diner offers classic burgers and sandwiches. Don’t miss its cakes! 2000 Fairview Road; hayesbartoncafeanddessertery.com IRREGARDLESS This longtime restaurant has lots

of vegetable-forward dishes and regular jazz nights. 901 W. Morgan Street; irregardless.com LILLY’S PIZZA This quirky pizzeria is known for its thick-crust pizzas. 1813 Glenwood Avenue; lillyspizza.com LOLA’S BEACH BAR This vacation-themed spot serves up frozen drinks along with a variety of signature tacos. 1803 Glenwood Avenue; lolasbeach.bar LONGLEAF SWINE BBQ Here, find classic Carolina BBQ to enjoy at picnic tables under a giant awning with great beverages. 300 E. Edenton Street; longleafswine.com MAMI’S LATIN STYLE ROTISSERIE CHICKEN This beloved Peruvian spot slowroasts its chicken and has irresistible

Bryan Regan (STANDARD); Forrest Mason (AMEDEO’S); Taylor McDonad (LOLA’S)

hese friendly eateries offer everything from classic burgers and sandwiches to international cuisine, perfect for a quick lunch break or a family dinner.

this award-winning BBQ joint. 502 W. Lenoir Street; samjonesbbq.com

Forrest Mason (CENTRO); Bryan Regan (EASTCUT); WALTER Archives (ROAST GRILL)

SIDE STREET RESTAURANT An old-fashioned Southern spot perfect for a cozy weekday lunch.

225 N. Bloodworth Street; sidestreetrestaurantraleigh.com SNOOPY’S An icon since 1978, Snoopy’s offers quick-serve hot dogs, cheeseburgers and homemade chicken salad. 1931 Wake Forest Road; snoopys.com

Clockwise from top left: Centro, The Roast Grill; Eastcut Sandwich Bar.

dipping sauces. 2401 Wake Forest Road; mamislatinchicken.com MITCH’S TAVERN Mitch’s is known for its classic pub fare, ice-cold beer and historic space. 2426 Hillsborough Street; mitchstavernraleigh.com MOJOE’S BURGER JOINT This spot is known for mouthwatering burgers, classic sandwiches and milkshakes. 620 Glenwood Avenue; mojoesburgerjoint.com MORGAN STREET FOOD HALL Inside an old warehouse, find over 20 vendors offering international cuisine, treats and more. 411 W. Morgan Street; morganfoodhall.com NEOMONDE Serving fresh Mediterranean food since 1977, to stay or to go. 3817 Beryl Road; neomonde.com

OAKWOOD PIZZA BOX This neighborhood pizzeria dishes out generously topped pies, wings and salads in a cozy space. 610 N. Person Street; oakwoodpizzabox.com PLAYERS RETREAT A classic sports bar and restaurant where kids still eat free on Sundays.

105 Oberlin Road; playersretreat.com PONYSAURUS BREWING CO. Ponysaurus features its own housebrewed beers, great appetizers and pizzas. Plus, there’s a slide! 2221 Iron Works Drive; ponysaurusbrewing.com THE ROAST GRILL This landmark only offers hot dogs one way: piled with chili, chopped onions and mustard. 7 S. West Street; instagram.com/theroastgrillhotweiners SAM JONES BBQ Order at the counter, then tuck in at

STANDARD BEER + FOOD Fresh but casual food, great frozen drinks and plenty of space for groups or kids who need to move.

205 E. Franklin Street; standardbeerandfood.com TRANSFER CO. FOOD HALL Plenty of options for quick-serve cuisine with international influences, and airy spots to enjoy it inside or outside. 500 E. Davie Street; transfercofoodhall.com TROPHY BREWING With three food-service locations, this local brewery offers great beer alongside pizzas, sandwiches, salads and more. 827 W. Morgan Street, 207 Bickett Boulevard and 853 W. Morgan Street; trophybrewing.com VIC’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA This classic, casual Italian spot is popular with families and groups.

331 Blake Street; citymarket.vicsitalianrestaurantnc.com WYE HILL KITCHEN & BREWING Here, find craft beers and chef-driven bar food — plus a sweeping view of downtown. 201 S. Boylan Avenue; wyehill.com OUR TOWN | 43

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

A NIGHT OUT

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hat makes for a special dinner? An atmosphere and menu that make you feel miles from home, with elevated service to smooth away any worries.

ANGUS BARN This destination steakhouse has been a fixture for over 50 years, known for its lodge-style interior and classic checkerboard tablecloths, plus an extensive wine list. 9401 Glenwood Avenue; angusbarn.com BIDA MANDA This Laotian restaurant has stylish interiors with a bohemian feel.

Here, enjoy inventive cocktails, plus delicately spiced curries and soups.

222 S. Blount Street; bidamanda.com BIG CAT This quirky spot offers fine dining with Mediterranean influences, plus a market and sandwich counter during the day. 1000 Brookside Drive, Suite 119; bigcatbrookside.com BIRDIE’S BARROOM & KITCHEN Offering contemporary American food in a chic atmosphere, this is a great option for a business dinner or pre-show meal. 150 Fayetteville Street; birdiesraleigh.com BLOOMSBURY BISTRO A French-inspired restaurant in Five Points, Bloomsbury has a seasonally

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Mala Pata

rotating menu and notable wine list. 509 W. Whitaker Mill Road; bloomsburybistro.com BREWERY BHAVANA This spacious restaurant and taproom has a lush but minimalist feel and offers upscale Chinese-influenced food. 218 S. Blount Street; brewerybhavana.com BRODETO Inspired by the Adriatic Sea, this airy, light-filled restaurant from chef Scott Crawford serves Croatian seafood and pastas. 2201 Iron Works Drive, Suite 137; brodeto.com CITY MARKET SUSHI Located just off Moore Square, this lively destination features creative sushi rolls, bento boxes and unique desserts. 315 Blake Street; citymarketsushi.com

CRAWFORD & SON This modern fine-dining restaurant from acclaimed chef Scott Crawford offers a menu of inventive, seasonal plates. 618 N. Person Street; crawfordandsonrestaurant.com CUCCIOLO TERRAZZA This Italian restaurant provides an upscale, yet friendly environment with private dining options to accommodate any occasion. 4200 Six Forks Road; cucciolonc.com DAIJOBU A tiny but formidable Japanese spot with a menu featuring hand rolls and ramen, outfitted in a chic black and blonde wood palette. Note that it’s walk-in only; get there early! 170 E. Davie Street; daijobu-raleigh.com DEATH & TAXES This upscale bistro by James Beard Award-winning chef Ashley Chris-

Forrest Mason

AJJA Ajja’s vibrant menu is full of shareable dishes — herbaceous dips, spiced kebabs — with Mediterranean, Asian and Middle Eastern influences. 209 Bickett Boulevard; ajjaeats.com

Forrest Mason (DAIJOBU); Baxter Miller (AJJA)

Top to bottom: Daijobu; Ajja.

tensen emphasizes wood-fired foods, a stellar wine list and excellent service. 105 W. Hargett Street; ac-restaurants.com/death-taxes EAST END BISTROT This French concept from restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias pairs classic technique with subtle Japanese influences. 2020 Progress Court, Suite 110; eastendbistrotraleigh.com FIGULINA Here, find handmade pasta with seasonal sauces inspired by chef David Ellis’ British heritage. The covered patio is a favorite in fine weather. 317 S. Harrington Street; figulinaraleigh.com GUSSIE’S Upscale but unfussy, this downtown bistro has a long bar, comfy seating and a complete food menu. 927 W. Morgan Street; gussiesraleigh.com

HERONS Inside The Umstead Hotel & Spa, find exquisite, locally sourced dishes with artistic flair from chef Steven Greene. Tip: If you can’t get a reservation, eat at the bar. 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary; theumstead.com

POOLE’S DINER Classic diner food gets a twist from chef Ashley Christensen. This is one of the OG hip downtown restaurants, and recently expanded into the space next door. 428 S. McDowell Street; ac-restaurants.com/pooles

JOLIE Chef Scott Crawford’s bistro blends French classics with contemporary interpretations, in a très chic setting. The rooftop level offers a lovely sunset view. 620 N. Person Street; restaurantjolie.com

SITTI A longtime, authentic Lebanese restaurant, this is a vegetarian-friendly choice for a pre-show meal. 137 S. Wilmington Street; sitti-raleigh.com

LAGANA Find inventive burgers and great drinks in this bustling, narrow space, plus periodic omakase menus and chef collaborations. 911 N. West Street, Suite 105; laganaraleigh.com

ST. ROCH FINE OYSTERS + BAR This oyster bar has a menu that leans on chef Sunny Gerhart’s New Orleans upbringing, with cozy booths and edgy art. 223 S. Wilmington Street; strochraleigh.com

MADRE Enjoy Mediterranean-style small plates, cocktails and wine in a sexy interior filled with candlelit alcoves and deep leather booths. 518 N. West Street; madreraleigh.com

STANBURY Helmed by Raleigh natives, this hip spot offers contemporary Southern dishes in an eclectic interior.

It doesn’t take reservations, so get there early to put your name in. 938 N. Blount Street; stanburyraleigh.com

MALA PATA Inside this cool black-and-gold space, find Latin American dishes centered around masa, a traditionally prepared corn mixture. 2431 Crabtree Boulevard; malapatanc.com

TAMASHA MODERN INDIAN Acclaimed chef Bhavan Chhatwani serves up nuanced Indian cuisine within a glamorous atmosphere.

4200 Six Forks Road, Suite 130; tamashanc.com

OMAKASE BY KAI This Japanese-Korean fusion restaurant has sushi, bento boxes and inventive multi-course omakase. 15 Seaboard Avenue; omakasekai.com

TAZZA KITCHEN This full-service restaurant offers pizza, tacos, salads, shareable starters and mains, with lunch and dinner seven days a week. 432 Woodburn Road; tazzakitchen.com

PEREGRINE With a menu inspired by chef Saif Rahman’s travels, find contemporary global cuisine in a cool, modern space. 1000 Social Street, Suite 150; peregrineraleigh.com

WHISKEY KITCHEN Near Nash Square, find elevated Southern food and a whiskey-forward cocktail list. 201 W. Martin Street; whiskey.kitchen OUR TOWN | 45

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK

COCKTAIL & WINE BARS

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hether you’re looking for a glass of wine to enjoy at happy hour or a cocktail to end a romantic night out, these bars and lounges offer quality drinks for your evening.

BITTER SOCIAL This spot above Centro restaurant focuses on quirky events from singles pitch nights to trashy wine clubs. 104 S. Wilmington Street; bittersocialraleigh.com BITTERSWEET Open for more than 10 years, this spot boasts lines out the door on weekends and drinks that double as dessert. 16 E. Martin Street; bittersweetraleigh.com BOATMAN SPIRITS CO. With a suite of martinis as its specialty, this new addition to the scene is also a distillery. 713 Seaboard Station Drive; boatmanspirits.com THE CAPULET COCKTAIL CLUB A chic and intimate environment that pays homage to the House of Capulet with its romantic, Italian architecture and premier wines and cocktails. 1000 Social Street, Suite 110; capuletclub.com THE CRUNKLETON Featuring a big, brassy bar with shelves lined with spirits, this newto-Raleigh cocktail bar in Smoky

46 | OUR TOWN

Saint-Pierre Wine Shop & Bar

Hollow also has a full menu. 403 W. Johnson Street; thecrunkleton.com DRAM AND DRAUGHT This unfussy bar, known for its excellent mixology, offers everything from espresso martinis to a range of whiskeys. 1 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 101; dramanddraught.com FOUNDATION Opened in 2009, Foundation is considered to be the first real craft cocktail bar in town. The menu features an impressive collection of American spirits. 213 Fayetteville Street, Suite 010; foundationnc.com THE GREEN LIGHT Make a reservation to get into this speakeasy, known for its classic drinks and secret entrance (it’s hidden behind a bookcase). 108 ½ E. Hargett Street; greenlightbar.com

THE HAYMAKER A giant floral mural outfits this tucked-away spot, which is a convenient pre- or post-show stop if you’re headed to the performing arts center. It’s especially festive around the holidays. 555 Fayetteville Street, #115; thehaymakerraleigh.com THE HIPPO WINE BAR & SHOP A respite in the heart of downtown, this comfortable, modern space draws guests with weekly wine tastings and big front windows. 123 E. Martin Street; hippowinebar.com KILLJOY A cocktail bar with a colorful interior and specialty cocktails. Small bites, bar snacks and charcuterie are also on the menu. 116 N. West Street; killjoycocktail.com THE LONGLEAF LOUNGE Located at the northern gateway to

Forrest Mason

BARCELONA WINE BAR On the bottom floor of The Dillon, this chic wine and tapas spot has an energetic patio. 430 W. Martin Street; barcelonawinebar.com

THE PARLOR Find this ultra-chic bar inside Heights House, a restored Italianate mansion that’s now a boutique hotel. 308 S. Boylan Avenue; heightshousenc.com/parlor PEYOTE This mini-bar, an offshoot of Latin American eatery Mala Pata, offers exotic small plates and agave-focused cocktails. 2431 Crabtree Boulevard; malapatanc.com

Forrest Mason

POSTINO Order a bottle of wine and a custom bruschetta board to share among friends at this 1980s music-inspired wine cafe in the Village District.

401 Daniels Street; postino.com Top to bottom: Mr. Henry; Sous Terre.

downtown, this spot features a heated patio, retro-chic indoor bar and signature cocktails. 300 N. Dawson Street; thelongleafhotel.com MOON ROOM This recently opened jazz lounge has low lighting and a relaxed, bohemian vibe. 500 N. West Street; moonroomraleigh.com MR. HENRY This cozy bar has an upscale feel with an equestrian-inspired design.

Here, find great twists on classic cocktails mixed by well-dressed bartenders. 413 Woodburn Road; instagram.com/mrhenrybar NEPTUNES A favorite for its late-night DJ sets, this underground bar has great craft cocktails, moody red lighting and a dance-inclined crowd. 14 W. Martin Street; neptunesraleigh.com

THE RALEIGH WINE SHOP This shop carries artisanal wines from around the world, with an eye toward affordability. Inside and outside seating — plus a cozy room in the back — make it great for a hang. 317 S. Bloodworth Street; theraleighwineshop.com RH ROOFTOP Surprise: On the third floor of the RH retail store is an upscale eatery with a strong selection of wines and champagnes, for a skylit escape.

4120 Lassiter Mill Road; rh.com ROSEBUD This downtown cocktail lounge was inspired by Japanese whiskey lounges and Hollywood films — enjoy one of its specialty cocktails or a glass of fine wine. 103 E. Martin Street; rosebudraleigh.com SAINT-PIERRE WINE SHOP & BAR This well-appointed bar and retail shop offers a knowledgeable staff and an excellent wine selection, pri-

marily from independent vineyards.

1101 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Suite 118; stpierrewine.com SOUS TERRE From the pros at Crawford Hospitality, you need a key to get into this upscale underground bar — or a reservation at one of its sister restaurants upstairs. 620 N. Person Street; instagram.com/barsousterre URBAN OAK This rooftop bar and restaurant in downtown’s Tempo by Hilton Hotel offers skyline views, excellent cocktails and an energetic crowd. 200 W. Davie Street; urbanoakraleigh.com WATTS & WARD With a nod to the rebellious spirit of 1920s America, this labyrinthine bar is great for a group, with a full cocktail menu. 200 S. Blount Street; wattsandward.com WILLIAM & COMPANY This hip spot is populated by livedin sofas, lots of plants and eclectic local artwork; on weekends, DJs transform it from lounge to dance floor. 616 N. Person Street; williamcobar.com WINE AUTHORITIES Find the perfect estate wine at this local shop that sells small-farm European wines at a variety of price points. Cafe tables outside and a DIY wine dispenser make this a sit-down destination. 211 E. Franklin Street; wineauthorities.com WOLFE & PORTER Enjoy a rotation of food trucks, see live music on the outdoor stage or attend an event at the sophisticated cellar space. 905 W. Morgan Street; wolfeandporter.com OUR TOWN | 47

RALEIGH THROUGH THE SEASONS

A

sk four Raleigh residents to name their favorite season, and you just might get four different answers. Beyond the natural beauty of watching spring blooms emerge and fall leaves change color, our annual events calendar brings a rhythm of beloved opportunities to experience the city.

Here are a few of our favorites — which will become a new tradition for you?

Dix Park sunflowers

SUMMER

Summer leans into long evenings and full itineraries. Dix Park’s sunflower fields draw steady crowds as they bloom across the hillside, becoming one of the city’s most recognizable seasonal sights.

Energetic crowds enjoy live music outside at Red Hat Amphitheater, Coastal Credit Union Music Park and Koka Booth Amphitheatre.

Weekends bring lively cheering opportunities from the stands of the North Carolina Courage and the Durham Bulls. Another simple pleasure is finding perfect peaches, tomatoes, watermelon and more at the NC State Farmers Market.

Art in Bloom at the NCMA

SPRING

Spring carries a sense of movement across the city. Art in Bloom fills the North Carolina Museum of Art with floral interpretations that reframe familiar works, while Artsplosure brings downtown Fayetteville Street alive with artists and installations that spill into the surrounding blocks.

At Lenovo Center, the Carolina Hurricanes’ home games keep crowds loud as the NHL season peaks, and the college basketball season energizes local alums’ old rivalries.

As flowers start to bloom, look for events at the JC Raulston Arboretum and Juniper Level Botanic Garden.

48 | OUR TOWN

Historic Yates Mill

FALL

Fall kicks off a fresh wave of things to do around town. The Hopscotch Music Festival and Raleigh Wide Open bluegrass festival fill the downtown streets with music and crowds.

Bugfest is a quirky event from the NC Museum of Natural Sciences

with interactive exhibits and insect-filled food, too! Saturdays often revolve around football — and tailgating! — at NC State’s Carter-Finley Stadium. The NC State Fair transforms the fairgrounds into a familiar gathering place, where the crazy food, giant veggies and rides draw steady crowds year after year. Cooler weekends invite time outdoors at Historic Yates Mill and Lake Crabtree, two of the best local spots for leaf-peeping.

Raleigh Ringers

WINTER

Winter keeps the city bright with activity. The Raleigh Christmas Parade kicks off the season before Thanksgiving. There are holiday performances galore, among them: Carolina Ballet’s The Nutcracker, Ira David Wood’s A Christmas Carol and Raleigh Little Theatre’s Cinderella, plus shows from the North Carolina Symphony, Raleigh Ringers and North Carolina Master Chorale. Oakwood’s Candlelight Tour draws thousands to peek into historic houses, and Pullen Park’s Holiday Express is a thrill for the kids. Nights at the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival add color and glow, and ice skating at The Rink is a fun jaunt. Closing out the year: the Acorn Drop downtown, our own spin on a festive New Year’s Eve tradition.

Laura Wall (ART IN BLOOM); Bob Karp (SUNFLOWEERS): Kate Medley (HISTORIC YATES MILL); John Hansen (RALEIGH RINGERS)

END NOTE

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