Luxury resident event service company SocialHub expands into the Triangle.
Even those who live in a 250+ unit apartment complex can sometimes get lonely—especially in our post-pandemic world. And it’s that growing epidemic that David and Monica Hickman have set out to tackle with SocialHub.
Launched in Charlotte in 2021—aka the “the perfect time,” according to Monica—the luxe event services venture aims to facilitate meaningful connections among apartment residents via unique and interactive experiences to drive resident engagement. While these intimate residential communities offer ample opportunities for connections, many people struggle to take that first step.
“Having been on the vendor side of multifamily properties and providing community-building services for almost a decade,” explains Monica, “we realized how much we loved helping people build connections and bridging the gap between residents and their new community.”
Previous rental-complex residents themselves, the duo has also experienced the positive impact community can have on overall living experience. “We made some of our best friends during that time,” she notes.
Photo courtesy of SocialHub
Photo courtesy of SocialHub
Photo courtesy of SocialHub
To facilitate that feel, SocialHub’s events and games run the gamut from karaoke and trivia to crafts, cocktail hours and pool parties. More elaborate ops include the likes of a Master’s “par-tee” complete with putting greens, tasty themed bites and John Daly cocktails to succulent terrarium-building for Earth Day and a taco and margarita bar for Cinco de Mayo. “We always like to give management companies options for holidays or special events,” shares Monica. “The companies can choose from a packet of events and decide what they feel would be the best fit for their particular community.”
By serving up relaxed, stress-free functions, the interactive hangs encourage residents to mix, mingle and ideally build lasting connections—and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Partnering with some of the largest property management companies in the country (think Greystar and Willow Bridge), the social platform has hosted events in over 120 apartment complexes in Charlotte, Charleston—and now the Triangle.
Raleighites can experience socials at various local complexes, including 927 West Morgan, Level at 401, Mira, Elan City Center and more. “We’ve heard so many amazing stories about people building connections and making friends at our events,” shares Monica, “and to play just a small role in that has been so fulfilling for us.” After all, at the end of the day, a stranger is just a friend you haven’t met yet. socialhubcompany.com
Boston—aka “The Hub,” “Titletown” and “Athens of America”—more than lives up to its many nicknames. Here, history, culture and wicked-good cuisine collide for a unique urban experience that feels at once distinctly American with a touch of European charm—from its walkable streets and stunning historic neighborhoods to its beautiful parks and waterfront. Both timeless and trendy, the cosmopolitan vibe of the city continues to attract all walks of life, lending to its all-around vibrant feel.
History buffs can immerse themselves in the city’s revolutionary roots, while foodies can feast their way through the city’s infinite award-winning restos and bars. And sports fans? Between the Red Sox, Pats, Bruins and Celtics, let’s just say Beantown plays to win. With so much to do, see and devour, narrowing down the must-visit spots is nearly impossible. But if you want to experience the absolute best of Boston, here’s where to start.
DO
Fenway Park You don’t have to be a Sox fan to appreciate the magic of MLB’s most beloved—and oldest!—ballpark. Snag a Fenway Frank, sit above the Green Monster (the iconic left field wall), and belt out “Sweet Caroline” in the eighth. After all, it’s not just a game, it’s a lifestyle. mlb.com
SoWa Boston Packed with galleries, funky boutiques and incredible eats, the Art + Design District in the South End is a creative paradise. Whether you’re an art lover or just a cool vibe connoisseur, there’s something for everyone. Pro tip: Hit up First Fridays to rub elbows with local artists, shop small and try out some of the city’s best food trucks.sowaboston.com
Whale-watching photo Ludwig-stock.adobe.com
Whale Watching Fun fact: Thanks to its prime location near the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, Boston is one of the best spots in the world for whale watching. Hop on a three- to four-hour excursion from Long Wharf for a chance to get up-close and personal with the gentle giants of the ocean.cityexperiences.com
Citizens Opera House For an evening of culture, swing by the beautifully restored 1920s-era theater that plays host to the Boston Ballet, Broadway hits and world-class musicians. The only surviving Boston work of iconic American theater architect Thomas Lamb, the theater itself is a destination offering historical, architectural and backstage tours. Show-stopping, indeed! citizensoperahouse.com
Freedom Trail Lace up your sneaks and stroll through time on the 2.5-mile trail connecting some of America’s most iconic landmarks—from the storied sanctuary of King’s Chapel to the Boston Massacre Site, Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution. thefreedomtrail.org
Beacon Hill Historic row houses, gas lamps, cobblestone streets? Say less. History meets major curb appeal in this residential neighborhood with a dashing dose of old-world charm. Stroll down the famous Acorn Street and pop into Tatte Bakery & Cafe or Beacon Hill Books & Cafe for a cozy caffeine pick-me-up. meetboston.com
EAT
Photo by Armani Thao, courtesy of The Banks
Photo by Armani Thao, courtesy of The Banks
The Banks When in Boston, eat as the New Englanders do. “Celebrating New England past and present,” Chris Himmel and executive chef/partner Robert Sisca’s fresh seafood spot dishes up all of the classics, from hearty New England clam chowder to melt-in-your-mouth lobster rolls. For a good time, roll up on Sundays for jazz brunch feat. an extensive menu of breakfast faves with a New England twist—think fried clams & waffles and lobster hash. thebanksboston.com
Somaek It’s all about family at this James Beard 2025 Best New Restaurant semifinalist near Boston Common, which pays homage to chef Jamie Bissonnette’s mother-in-law—also the casual resto’s official consulting chef. Traditional Korean dishes such as seogogi mandu (beef and scallion dumplings), kimchi jjigae (kimchi stew) and jabchae (sweet potato starch noodles) make for an intimate and filling dining experience. somaek.com
Fox & the Knife Bringing a taste of Modena, Italy, to South Boston, the elevated Italian spot embodies the “spirit of aperitivo” via a curated selection of sharable starters such as housemade ricotta, prosciutto di Parma and harissa-marinated olives. When it comes to mains, dig into the tagliatelle Bolognese, pollo al mattone, pesce fritto or any of the other bold and comforting dishes. foxandtheknife.com
DRINK
Backbar Frequently topping the lists of Boston’s best bars, the eclectic spirit-forward speakeasy-style destination is a hidden gem of the city—literally. Down an alley through an understated orange door, street art-covered walls set the stage for carefully crafted cocktails like the Florida Man, The Kraken and the Jackalope. backbarunion.com
Bell in Hand Tavern Pouring pints since 1795, America’s oldest continuously operating tavern is worth a visit for a round or two and some tasty pub grub. Enjoy Revolutionary era-themed cocktails such as the Paul Revere Punch and Presidential Maple feat. Jefferson VSB Bourbon (naturally) in a cozy historic brick setting. Ring it on! thebellinhand.com
Courtesy of Blossom Bar at Sichuan Garden
Blossom Bar at Sichuan Garden A little bit of Tiki and a lot of Sichuan, this craft cocktail bar and restaurant located in Boston’s Brookline suburb perfectly encapsulates the art of the cocktail with award-winning sips such as the Gloria (Bacardi Cuatro Años, passion fruit, lime, cinnamon, coffee and mascarpone). Together, the beautiful ’tails and delicate light wood-filled and mint-colored interior make for the ultimate ’Gram-worthy experience. blossombarbrookline.com
STAY
The Liberty Hotel It doesn’t get more “quintessentially Boston” than this lavishly renovated Beacon Hill stay. In 2007, the historic and infamous Charles Street Jail ditched its cells for swanky suites, crafting a luxury experience in the heart of the city. Lean into the theme by dining at Clink., Alibi or one of the hotel’s other jailhouse-chic restaurants and bars.libertyhotel.com
Photo by Eric L. Levin, courtesy of The Verb
Photo by Christine Gatti, courtesy of The Verb
The Verb Hotel Rock ’n’ roll is the name of the game at this one-of-a-kind midcentury music lovers’ oasis tucked beside Fenway Park. Relax in a retro-luxe hotel room or opt for a one-of-a-kind experience in a music legend-inspired Backstage trailer. In addition to the ballpark, the surrounding neighborhood is home to the House of Blues, MGM Music Hall, and ample bars and restaurants. theverbhotel.com
The Langham Sleek and sophisticated, this centrally located hotel formerly housing the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston blends the new with the old through thoughtful nods to the city’s history—think art, architecture and other elements. From warming gold and plaid accents to British-inspired cocktail bar The Fed, you can also expect touches of Europe. langhamhotels.com
Get ready to slay the latest fashion trends at EVEREVE, a popular boutique coming to the Main District at North Hills this fall serving lewks from curated brands like Citizens of Humanity, Paige and Faherty. @evereveofficial
The Burrow is back! The pop-up vendor/small business collective by Sir Chance’s has found a new home on West Hargett Street offering the likes of clothes, books, art, antiques, jewelry and more. @theburrowraleigh
Just keep spinning. … Put the pedal to the metal at rhythm-based indoor cycling and strength studio HomeTurf, which recently rolled into North Hills Innovation District. @hometurfnc
Courtesy of BK Pilates
Get your body and mind in check at BK Pilates’s new Rockway location, bringing NYC’s go-to reformer workout to Raleigh via expert trainers and overall wellness. @bkpilatesrdu
Workin’ on your fitness! Glenwood South’s March-slated total-health gym Volofit will have you pushing your limits through dynamic group interval-based training. @volofitglenwoodsouth
Friends don’t let friends skip leg day, so grab a pal and hustle for that muscle at local fitness coach Sammy Siegel’s new group fitness and strength training gym Empire Training Academy. @empiretrainingacademyraleigh
Courtesy of BFT Seaboard Station
Beast mode: activated. Channel your inner fitness fiend at brand-new BFT Seaboard Station, combining progressive programming, personal training and science-backed tech. @bft_seaboardstation
Scale to new heights at Triangle Rock Club’s recently bowed TRC-Salvage Yard. The largest climbing gym in NC boasts ample bouldering areas and rope-climbing walls—plus cardio space and a yoga studio. @trianglerockclub
Courtesy of Pin Point
Game on! Raleigh’s first indoor pickleball and golf facility Pin Point is now open, serving up 16 pickleball courts, eight golf simulators and two full-service bars. @pinpointraleigh
Ment Beverage Co. DURHAM It was ~ment~ to be! Adding to the roster of tenants at the American Tobacco Campus comes this bar by the makers of Honeygirl Meadery. Stroll the 3,000-square-foot tasting room and production facility while sipping on a variety of fermented bevs, from mead and cider to locally brewed beer and distilled spirits—NTM non-alc sparkling ops. Then grab a seat inside and stay awhile or take your bev on the go. “Durham’s Diverse Taproom,” indeed!mentbev.com
Bird’s Nest at Blackbird WAKE FOREST Classic cocktails meet a sophisticated feel at this elevated cocktail experience in the heart of Wake Forest. Indulge in a pre-dinner or après-dinner (or both!) drink from a carefully curated menu of timeless classics like an old-fashioned, cosmopolitan and sidecar, plus a selection of signature ’tails like the Rosarita (Lunazul blanco, housemade raspberry shrub, Lucid absinthe, basil) and the My Sharona (Cathead Vodka, housemade strawberry shrub, lemon, topped with prosecco). The adults-only hang also hosts a rotating selection of Blackbird Brewery beers, an extensive wine menu and a range of NA bevs. Get sipping! birdsnestatblackbird.com
Church Spirits & Cocktails CLAYTON & GOLDSBORO Taking us to church, this spirit-forward, Prohibition-inspired joint just expanded into the Triangle, shaking things up with a tasty menu of classic cocktails with everything from a Tom Collins and whiskey sour to a Moscow mule and a selection of flavor-packed seasonal cocktails. Why Church? Well, the swanky locale is designed to be a neighborhood bar—a place for conversation and fellowship. Of all the gin joints…churchspiritsandcocktails.com
Sauna House DURHAM As the Finnish proverb says, “A person without [a] sauna is like a body without a soul.” So, sweat out the stress and find your inner peace at this community- and wellness-focused Nordic-inspired bathhouse. Detox (literally) from tech while you spend quality screen-free time with yourself or with friends. Founder Andrew Lachlan delivered the vision from his own experience treating chronic pain with cold water, so sauna, cold plunge, relax and repeat for his ultimate healing experience. So ~chill~! saunahouse.com
Zayka Indian Grill & Bar CHAPEL HILL Fun fact: Zayka means “flavor” in Hindi, and that’s exactly what this Indian eatery brings to the table. Featuring an extensive menu inspired by the rich foodie history of India, the restaurant and its culinary creations are designed to bring people together. Pass around a small plate like Gobhi Manchurian, butter chicken nachos or samosa chaat before digging into the main course (think malabar fish curry, Saag chicken or Pindi chana). And complement your meal with an “unusual and unexpected” craft cocktail like the masala watermelon mojito or the Jamuntini. Curry up and eat! zaykauncchapelhill.com
Get ready to *ciao* down on new Italian faves in the City of Oaks. Chef Michael Bongiorno is slated to open an updated take on his Lafayette Village deli and Italian specialties market Bongiorno & Son at The Exchange Raleigh later this year, joining an ever-growing palatable menu of F&B outposts like now-open WRK by The Optimist and soon-bowing Peregrine.
The yet-to-be-named “deeply personal” concept for Bongiorno & Son, according to Bongiorno, will feat. a spacious market with grab-and-go salads, meals and pantry staples. Not to mention freshly prepared deli selections, pastries and elevated sammies at a classic counter—all complemented by dark wood accents and eye-catching graphics.
Taking things next level, the restaurant will also embrace the Italian-style afterwork aperitivo tradition of small plates and bevs—and stay tuned for seasonal osteria-style community dinners. “That legacy of bringing people together through food is something I’m proud to continue here in Raleigh,” says Bongiorno. We’ll salute to that!
