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Five of the best bites, sips & screenings just outside Raleigh
Tonya’s Cafe | Chapel Hill
Tonya Council—yes, that Tonya of Oprah-approved baked good fame (!) and the late Mama Dip’s granddaughter—is serving up a fresh take on Southern comfort food at her latest tasty venture. An extension of her popular Tonya’s Cookies & Bake Shop, the soulful spot dishes out mouthwatering classics like chicken-fried steak, smothered pork chops, Monte Cristo sandos and a must-try cornbread flight—not to mention an irresistibly refreshing mango peach lemonade and desserts like banana pudding… because everyone knows a Southern meal isn’t complete without something sweet. tonyascookies.com
Killer Queen Wine Bar | Durham
Part funky hideaway, part community hub, this eclectic art-filled “social living room” is where great wines meet spectacular vibes in the heart of downtown Durham. Serving up the ultimate third place, it’s ideal for any sort of rendezvous—whether you’re sipping solo, deep in convo with friends or making an unexpected new one (two-legged or four!). With more than 50 wines by the glass, a curated small plates menu and a back patio straight out of a Brooklyn-meets-Southerner’s dream (wings mural by Collette Miller included), there’s always something—or someone—worth toasting to, making for a ~killer~ time indeed. killerqueendurham.com
Downtown Cary Park Movie Night Series | Cary
Bring on the popcorn and park it for the ultimate outdoor cinema experience. From Moana 2 (May 23) to Top Gun (July 3) to Wicked (Aug. 20), The Cary Theater-curated lineup is stacked with crowd favorites, all screened free on the Great Lawn. Come early to snag the best seat, hit up food trucks for movie munchies, and dive into themed preshow activities. Pro tip: BYO blankets and beach chairs for max comfort. downtowncarypark.com
Faulisi Caffé & Enoteca | Cary
One of the Triangle’s top pizzerias has flipped the script—literally. Once wood-fired pizza hot spot Pizzeria Faulisi has transformed into a vibrant breakfast-and-lunch cafe, offering a cozy neighborhood spot to linger over some grub. OG fans can still get their pie fix via the weekday margherita pizza and a few weekend specials, but, now, the real star is the rotating lineup of unique pastries, stacked sammies, fresh salads and expertly brewed coffee bevs. Cater to an all-day fest by indulging in a sfogliatella (cream-filled pastry) with a rich cioccolato con caffe, then savor an order of housemade gnocchi, or plan your return for an upcoming wine dinner. One thing’s for sure—this isn’t just a pivot, it’s a glow-up. pizzeriafaulisi.com
French Bleue | Apex
Step into a little slice of Provence via this charming spot where elegance meets everyday living and centuries-old European antiques are blended with modern pieces. Owner Libby Padula scoured markets across Europe to curate the dreamy collection of vintage treasures, luxe decor and design-forward finds that feel both storied and effortlessly chic—think weathered patina frames, gilded mirrors, plush velvet furniture and ceramic kitchenware. Enhance that Parisian vibe by grabbing a sandwich, salad or macaron from new in-house petite cafe Marché—in partnership with Raleigh’s own lucettegrace—as you peruse. frenchbleue.com
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