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Five must-try hot spots outside the City of Oaks
Sweet Talk Cafe | Garner
Pastel perfection meets Asian-inspired indulgence at this charming cafe dishing out swoonworthy desserts and specialty ’Grammable drinks (like, seriously, your feed will thank you). From fluffy Korean milk-based shaved-ice bingsoo piled high with fresh fruit and mochi to buttery croffles that are the ultimate crispy-meets-flaky treat, every bite is as pretty as it is delicious. And you can’t go wrong pairing with a bright-green matcha or strawberry latte. Sweet tooths, consider this your new happy place. sweettalkcafenc.com
Burlington Food Hall | Burlington
Packing serious flavor into the Alamance County small town is this dynamic food hall shaking up the local food scene with five unique eateries, a fully stocked bar and a buzzy communal atmosphere. With ops ranging from hibachi and boba tea to Turkish street food and Filipino cuisine, there’s certainly something for everyone—plus desserts for those wanting to end their meal on a sweet note. Not to mention regular live music and ample spots to sit and stay awhile both inside or out on the patio. OK, Burlington, we see you! burlingtonfoodhall.com
Nan Xiang Express | Durham
NYC’s cult-favorite hot spot has officially made its mark in the Bull City as the place to get ~dumped~. A household name in the Big Apple’s dim sum scene, the offshoot of the Michelin-rec’d dumpling darling is now serving up its famous xiao long bao (choose from pork, chicken, beef, and crab & pork), crispy-bottom buns and pot stickers, and rich beef noodle soup right near Duke’s campus. Pro tip: The scallion pancake is also a must-order. A Raleigh location is also in the works—but, until then, you know where to get your slurp on. nanxiangexpress.com
Annexe | Durham
Dimly lit, neon-drenched and oozing with funky flair, this underground escape is as electric as its drinks. Tucked beneath its sister bar, Bar Virgile, the upbeat hideaway thrives on tropical ’tails (some literally on fire), late-night grooves and immaculate vibes. Sip a Dragons Breath while DJs spin vinyl and heat up the dance floor, or cozy up in the lounge with next-level bites like crispy fried oysters, steak frites, risotto and a bangin’ burger. So whether you’re there to sip, snack or shake it, Annexe more than delivers. annexedurham.com
MoonRunners Saloon | South Garner, Dunn
From Bar Rescue to hometown hero, this lively saloon proves that a little grit—and a whole lot of moonshine!—goes a long way. Serving up Prohibition-era speakeasy meets honky-tonk energy, the old-timey watering hole is home to the world’s largest moonshine menu—plus ample traditional bar food and Southern comfort selects. Think award-winning wings and burgers, fall-off-the-bone ribs, and scratchmade Carolina classics that hit the spot every time (shrimp and grits, please!). While you nosh, enjoy a smoky craft cocktail, catch a live band or kick back with a Mason jar of shine and see what all the fuss is about. moonrunnerssaloon.com
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