by Carson Sellers | May 29, 2024 | Do, June 2024
Booze, java and Far East fare fixes this month—right outside Raleigh
Akami Sushi • Apex
Hear us out: Gas station sushi slaps. (Don’t knock it till you try it!) Rules were meant to be broken, and the Han-Dee Hugo’s-housed unorthodox seafood joint feat. fresh fare is breaking all the normalities on a massive scale—in the best way. With seasoned chef Wanchalerm Owattragool at the helm producing infinite flavor combos, the unassuming spot is poised to roll out your horizons via the likes of such unique ingredients as Cajun-pepper salmon, coconut shrimp, Japanese pickles, Maine lobster and VooDoo sauce. Essentially, the sushi’s totally gas (!). @akami.sushibar
Atomic Clock Brewing Co. • Durham
Time flies when you’re having fun—read: drinking beer with your buds. Belly up to this just-bowed brother/sister-owned biz brewing up community and atomically slurpworthy sips (hey, handcrafted beer, craveable cocktails and boutique wine selects!). Flaunting a full-service kitchen and taproom, the Warehouse District-based outpost also showcases an elevated menu created by chef David Lopez. Pro tip: Try the Brooklyn chopped cheese sammy or the chef’s grandmother’s beef and cheese empanadas—aka *chef’s kiss.* Consider all our boxes ticked! @atomicclockbrewing
Milo’s Cafe • Morrisville
Love is in the air, and—spoiler alert—it smells like coffee. Combining family and business, this globally infused hot spot blends Colombian and French/Algerian cultures together to create a raw concept consistently brewing up good vibes. Java drinkers, grab your fave latte or branch out with a fruity or flowery homemade syrup; then fill your belly to the brim with fresh salads, morning bowls and scratchmade focaccia sandwiches promising an Instaworthy bite. Beyond the sips and sups, browse bundles of blooms and gifts (think punny mugs and incense holders)—all positioning this quaint cafe to be quite the pit stop. Mugs and kisses! @milos_europeancafe
Kingfisher • Durham
Sultry Prohibition vibes found via Sean Umstead and Michelle Vanderwalker’s moody eccentric basement hideout. Take it back to the 1920s with live smooth jazz on Tuesdays (ya like jazz?!) and artful “ground-to-glass” libations incorporating perhaps unfamiliar ingredients like maitake mushrooms, parsnips, brown butter and toasted coconut tea, to name just a few. And if you’re coming for the unconventional yet gorge bevs, you might as well stay for the delish chef-inspired snacks—think deviled dip, chicharrones and charcuterie from sister resto Queeny’s. Consider us o-fish-ially impressed. @kingfisherdurham
Thai Station • Carrboro
Choo, choo! The flavor train has reached the (Thai) station—and we’re totally on board. Bangin’ out all the classics with a twist, this inclusive international locale posted up in an old boxcar is giving quintessential adventure eating. On the next-level Far East menu, you’ll find authentic Thai cuisine (think multiple curries, stir-fried dishes, salads and noodle soups), plus all the Thai fare you know and love (pad thai, fried rice and papaya salad—NTM a classic coconut ice cream feat. sticky rice). No confusion on these fusions. Aroi maak! @thaistation_carrboro_nc
by Carson Sellers | Apr 29, 2024 | May 2024, Stuff
Your May workout, flower and jewelry hot spot selects
Cropping up at the NC State Farmers Market’s garden center site in 2025, Logan’s Garden Shop is returning to its roots—literally (its first location was at the OG Hodges Street farmers market ~60 years ago). @logantrd
Like to move it, move it? Free People’s unique fitness-themed boutique FP Movement is making moves to Village District, with chic activewear, bags, wellness products and other cute workout apparel that’ll allow you to slay while you sweat. @fpmovement
“Face the facts”—your friends’ skincare ain’t for you. Treat yourself to a glow-up while giving some love to the skin you’re via Lizzie Hanes’ new Five Points skincare studio offering customized facials, brow services and more. Jelly mask, anyone? @lizzy_hanes
It’s a charmed life, indeed, as Bofémme’s charm bar, hat bar and permanent jewelry boutique brings the sparkle to Makers Alley—from dainty gold delicacies to standout statement pieces. @shopbofemme
One yoga class away from a good mood? Your (second) daily dose is now in Midtown a la Dose Yoga’s newly bowed Makers Alley oasis, complete with smoothies—plus a contrast therapy flex. @doseyoga
OK, bloomer! Growing good vibes in Makers Alley, Nashville-based flower truck-turned-shop Amelia’s Flowers’ gives you the op to stop and smell the roses—and take some home, natch—as it lays roots in Raleigh. @ameliasflowertruck
It’s giving high-intensity and low-impact at its finest. Reform yourself at RIW’s newest feel-good Pilates-inspired fitness hub Solidcore opening this month. Trust us, it’s a [solid] workout. @solidcore
by Carson Sellers | Apr 29, 2024 | Do, May 2024
Where to eat, stay and play for your Pinehurst vacay.
When Bob Dylan crooned about the “land of the pines,” he must’ve been talking about Pinehurst. Also known as the Golf Capital of the World, the foliage-filled town only about an hour and a half away from the City of Oaks promises a satisfying getaway *par* none—whether just headed down for the day or looking to stay and play awhile.
As you start your sojourn in an oasis oozing with sprawling green surrounds, bask in the sunshine via a stroll throughout its many locally owned boutiques, grab a seat at one of the several impressive bars and restaurants, snooze heavy at a cozy stay spot, or swing by one of the many golf courses, filling your après tee time with all the village’s various sips, shops and nips. We’ll see you there.
DO
Pinehurst Resort | No. 2
Get ready for a tee party! The “pounding heart of Pinehurst Resort,” and the site of the first U.S. Open Anchor—boasting the most golf championships countrywide—means these greens are just begging to be played. A Donald Ross masterpiece, the evergreen paradise emphasizes a well-rounded unique vibe and a legacy lineup of golf pros who’ve graced the fairway—think Arnold Palmer and “Tiger Tiger Woods, y’all.” Def worth stroking out over. pinehurst.com
Pine Needles
A legend in its own right—one of a pine, if you will—this top-five NC course (and Golfweek’s top 25 in the U.S.!) famously bought and restored by LPGA icon Peggy Kirk Bell and husband Warren “Bullet” Bell remains in the fam to this day. Another feather in Donald Ross’ design cap and the first course to be awarded four U.S. Women’s Championships, the storied course promises a ~pine~ link of playing indeed. pineneedleslodge.com
Sandhills Horticultural Gardens
Feeling less the greatest game and more nature is calling? Get botanical in one of nature’s most lush habitats across 30+ acres of enchanting gardens leaning into the NC Sandhills’ unique natural environment—think even a Sir Walter Raleigh garden repping a Sunken Garden. A major area attraction, the passion project of Sandhills Community College students is open year-round dawn to dusk. … OK, Mother Nature, we see you flexing. sandhills.edu
EAT
Ironwood
“Don’t play with your food”—said no one ever on the culinary team at Ironwood, repping innovative cuisine coming out of the kitchen in droves. Sashay through the signature patchwork door to be greeted by classy yet casual surrounds feat. an alfresco ambiance with old Southern magnolias swaying in the wind. Keeping its appeal meaty, the restaurant is the area’s sole spot serving certified prime Angus beef, NTM a smattering of delish signatures appealing to all palates. ironwoodpinehurst.com
Elliott’s on Linden
Right from the farm to your table—and redefining the meaning of fresh—the masterful fare promises to feed your soul (and your belly) via imaginative dishes displaying the flavor of farm-sourced ingredients that showcase a slew of Southern delicacies with a twist. Think staples like shrimp and grits and stuffed chicken and waffles, plus unique offerings such as crab hushpuppies and grilled octopus. And don’t sleep on the global wine program. elliottsonlinden.com
Drum and Quill
Add it to the docket. … Located in a 130-year-old judge’s chamber, the casual bar/eatery serves up bona fide tavern vibes—built on the legacy of golf writers, natch—and an array of classic ’tails via 150+ spirits, plus wine and beer to pair with droolworthy tacos, Angus burgers and the like. Pro tip: Don’t miss weekend brunch feat. eggs Benedict. Trade the club for the quill? Don’t mind if we do. @drumandquill
DRINK
The Village Wine Shop
“Wine. Coffee. Beer. Cheer.” Consider this the recipe for success of a quaint one-stop shop offering vino and relaxed vibes via its environs and scores of boutique wines primarily from small family-owned vineyards—NTM a smattering of sip selects for the non-wine-drinkers. Hint: You’ll want to gather your pals for a private tasting on the gorge patio—trust us. Cheers to wine dinner weather! thevillagewineshoppinehurst.com
Pinehurst Brewery
BBQ and beer 🤝 Pinehurst Brewery. What better way to wind down from a long day of golfing (or shopping!) by guzzling finger-lickin’ BBQ and brews—smokehouse style. Situated in an old steam plant, the vintage space radiates old-fashioned charm—from its food and drink to its brick-walled ambiance nodding to its past life (hey, repurposed pipes as table legs!). So crafty. pinehurstbrewing.com
North and South Bar
Take a trip down memory lane upon stepping inside a laidback historic bar located in The Manor pouring out oodles of old-school appeal—and more importantly, ~150 styles of bourbons, whiskeys, ryes and Scotch. … In the mood for some sax? Grab a drink and enjoy jazz wafting throughout the space—or wander alfresco to the sprawling patio (with fire pit for that random cold NC day in May). pinehurst.com
STAY
The Manor
This circa-1923 historic gem gives boujee cigar lounge vibes—in the best way. The old-fashioned yet modern inn “wrapped in classic charm” touts a duo of hospitality suites and guest rooms dripping with elevated environs and indulgent comfort. And in true Pinehurst fashion, it’s surrounded by golf courses and bars on-site (ahem, North and South Bar). How well-manored! pinehurst.com
The Magnolia Inn
Picture it: You’re kicking back at an intimate sanctuary, taking in the fresh air while sitting and swaying out on the porch before traveling back in time as you enter your recently revamped yet unique accommodations feat. parlor chairs, clawfoot tubs and an inoperable fireplace, depending on your room selection. Ah, heavenly. pinehurst.com
The Holly Inn
Pinehurst’s OG hotel has been inviting those seeking a high-quality snooze through its striped awning since the late 1800s. Nestled in the center of the action, the overnight oasis flaunts Queen Anne-style architecture and something simply “pure Pinehurst.” From the acute attention to detail (s/o Tiffany lamps) to the swimming pool to the bar from Scotland, a stay at the inn gives relaxation at its finest. pinehurst.com
by Carson Sellers | Apr 29, 2024 | Do, May 2024
Get your coffee, beer and sweets fix this month just outside Raleigh.
The Grounds
CHAPEL HILL
Build-your-own lattes and spiked coffees? Ahem, grounds for posting up for, say, a strawberry Baileys white chocolate latte—or literally whatever liquid therapy floats your boat (even coffee-alts like Lotus energy sips for the non-java junkies). Brewing up good vibes and jolts of energy, the student/alumni-run java joint percolates community from its post in the popular entrepreneurial hub The Pitch—never mind its creative toppings (Oreos, anyone?) and signatures (cookie monster, please!)… and those local pastries to boot. Life’s a grind, indeed. thepitchchapelhill.com
The Carolina Manor House + Treehouses
FRANKLINTON
Childhood nostalgia meets boujee adulthood in these charming and rustic wooded treehouses—er, the perf retreat for living that Walden life after a day spent frolicking in Franklinton. Channel Thoreau as you settle into the Adirondack rockers over a cuppa and good book in the morning, and by night, park it in front of the fire pit while you toast up some s’mores. Events at the Manor House further fill in your free time—think a Bourbon, Blues and BBQ fest May 18 feat. live music and food trucks. And, don’t worry, if you start to miss reality (as if), there’s a TV in the cabin to boot. Your childhood treehouse could never. thecarolinamanorhouse.com
Sugar Koi
CARY
Life’s sweeter with sugar. And this sweet ice cream shop relocated from Durham takes dessert next-level thanks to fresh Asian-inspired ice cream served in Koiyaki fish waffle cones. So ’Grammable! Stay in your comfort zone with traditional flavors like chocolate and vanilla, or branch out and indulge in the likes of matcha green tea, cappuccino crunch, raspberry sorbet or brown butter bourbon truffle. Not to mention seasonal specials—for spring, there’s a peach of a feature, literally. And don’t forget the sprinkles and whipped cream. Scoop, there it is! @sugarkoiicecream
The Daily Beer Bar
DURHAM
Beer, coffee, sandwiches—check. If ever there were a spot for all your daily needs, it’d have to be, well, The Daily. Perk up the mornings with a flight trio of farm-to-cup filtered coffee (!), a ganache shot (filter coffee + dark chocolate) or pretty much any crafty full-gravity concoction you can think up—including more tea than you can spill during a GNO. Sandos, salads, sweets (hey, Tepuy Donuts!) and snack boards’ll sate any daily craving—while those spirited suds promise to keep you in the zone (or zoned out—no judgment). And don’t sleep on brunch. Translation? Consider the bar raised. thedailybeerbar.com
Seraphine
DURHAM
Hola, NoLa! Brothers and NanaSteak managing partners Brad and Graham Weddington are bringing a taste of Louisiana to the Bull City. A bevy of modern takes on Cajun standouts will have you checking your location—from a classic gumbo and housemade boudin sausage to seafood snacks (hey, shrimp and crawfish croquettes!) to fluffy beignets, natch, plus an array of crafty cocktails, beer and wine. Make like Iggy or Reba and be fancy in the classy dining room, or go full Big Easy on the intimate outdoor patio, complete with string lights and a fountain. Bayou vibes only. seraphinedurham.com
by Carson Sellers | Apr 29, 2024 | Eat, May 2024
Gotta hankering for huevos? Spice up your weekend brunch with these spins.
Mexican for breakfast? Say less. Trade your classic eggs and toast for huevos rancheros to kick-start your day with a fiesta of flavor—and perhaps your mimosa for a marg if you’re really feeling spicy! For those unfamiliar, the Mexican breakfast/brunch staple packs a punch with a base of tortillas topped with zesty ingredients like eggs, salsa, avocado, refried beans and more. A relatively hard-to-find standout—here’s where to nosh on our fave spins around town.
La Santa
Arrrrrriba! Transport yourself to Guadalajara with this bona fide take feat. simple ingredients (think chorizo, jalapenos, rice and beans) and bangin’ flavor. lasantanc.com
Hummingbird
This one’s a hum-dinger (!). The New Orleans-inspired resto adds feta and avo for a fresh twist—aka brunch goals. hummingbirdraleigh.com
a’Verde
Dubbed “Grounds for Divorce Huevos” and starring a pool of both red and green salsa, this one’s sure to leave you shell-shocked. averdecary.com
A Place at the Table
Creamy, citrusy, spicy and fresh combine in this classic mouthwatering combo starring a special lime crema you’re gonna want extra of. *Lime* me up! tableraleigh.org
Irregardless Cafe
~Irregardless~ of your brunch cravings, this loaded dish—amped up with tomatillo salsa, sour cream, queso fresco and pickled onions—is sure to satisfy with a burst of flavor in every bite. irregardless.com
