Village District’s first full-fledged cocktail bar Mr. Henry—from the mind of local hospitality vet Matt Bettinger—is now open, pouring classics like cosmos, spritzes and a top-notch martini in a British pub-esque environment. Cheers to that, guv’nor!
Giorgios Bakatsias is on a roll—literally. His newest concept, Tomi Sushi, has landed at East End Market with elevated contemporary Japanese selects, from signature rolls and nigiri to traditional starters, protein-heavy entrees, and soups and salads.
In ~sweet~ news, Bittersweet and Johnson Street Yacht Club owners Kim Hammer and Lewis Norton’s Bitter Social is now open above Centro. Combining happy hour and social hour, the hot spot features cocktails and recurring events like Trashy Wine Club, DJ dance parties, smut poetry nights and more. It’s like Friends meets dive bar.
Bitter Social
Oh, how sweet it is (to be loved by Tifa)! Tifa Chocolate & Gelato is now open in North Hills. A sweets lover’s dream, the shop offers chocolate, gelato, cookies, coffee and tea, and other treats.
Pour it up! DTR’s first ABC storein ~40 years has bowed with over 2,000 bottles (including NC products) in the former Kimbrell’s Furniture location next door to Deco on Salisbury Street. Downtown spirits—officially lifted.
A taste of Cabo is coming to Brier Creek Commons early this month via the local Torres family’s Cabo Mexican Cuisine feat. a Baja California-inspired menu with the likes of tacos, ceviche, and mezcal + tequila drinks. No sunscreen necessary.
Pasta la vista! Smoky Hollow’s newest restaurant La Cucina Italiana is now slinging pasta, pizza, subs, salads and other Italian favorites alongside a full bar.
Set your alarms (snooze button optional) for not one, but three new brunch offerings around Raleigh: plant-based dishes at Fiction Kitchen, Mexican and Latin American fare at Mala Pata, and classic faves at The Crunkleton.
Pho real? Following Mofu Shoppe’s closing this summer, new Vietnamese restaurant Saigon Kitchen is expected to fill the space at City Market.
ISO NYC-style bagels right here in Raleigh? Check out V Pizza’s weekend pop-up From Queens With Love, feat. bagels mixed, mastered and kettle-boiled in NYC and finished in the Cary location’s wood-fired ovens.
Buzzy news in 3, 2, 1… 321 Coffee has moved into a larger roastery—its second roastery expansion in three years (!)—that will more than triple its current roasting capacity. Stay tuned for roastery tours and tasting experiences coming soon.
A farewell to inclusive venues The Wicked Witch and The Night Rider, both shuttering for good Nov. 2.
Fresh squeeze, who dis? Stirring up something new at North Hills, STIR has unveiled a revamped menu + bar program feat. in-house juices and dishes like bone-in ribeye, dover sole and shrimp scampi—NTM a signature housemade tonic syrup.
Have you herd? James Beard Award-nominated chef Preeti Waas is opening a second location of her boutique bodega Nanny Goat at the bottom floor of the GeerHouse apartment building in downtown Durham with a spotlight on grab-and-go prepared foods from local chefs.
Japanese and Italian cuisine combine at recently bowed Shinmai Kumo in Cary—from the same team behind Shinmai Shokudo—with unique menu items such as wasabi fries, chicken curry flatbread and tonkatsu tagliatelle. Talk about an international crossover episode.
Slice, slice, baby! Popular Raleigh pizza joint Timber Pizza Co. is headed to Durham in December with a new 2,000-square-foot space at The Shops at Wye Junction offering its signature pies, local brews and a “pizza party-meets-summer camp” vibe.
Timber Pizza Co. | Photo courtesy of NiceDay
DTR nightclub Aura Lounge is back open with a reno’d exterior, plus new state-of-the-art DJ booth, lasers and CO2 cannons. Cue the confetti drop!
And we’ll all drift on, OK… The firstDrift coffee shop + kitchen (as opposed to its restaurant-style “cafes”) is coming to Hub RTP in early November.
West coast energy incoming at Oregon-founded coffee chain Dutch Bros, dropping its first NC location in Morrisville by the end of the year.
New name, same pour decisions. Fenton’s CRÚ Food & Wine Bar has entered a new era, rebranding to CRÚ Wine Bar and Bistro—plus launching a reimagined culinary and bev program featuring chef-driven dishes, an extensive wine list and a top-scale spirits selection.
Hidden in plain sight, North Raleigh’s newest speakeasy and cocktail escape
North Raleigh just got its first true cocktail bar—and it’s hiding in plain sight. Meet Dry Cleaners Cocktail Bar, a sultry speakeasy tucked inside a former dry cleaners near Hibernian Pub. The aptly named brainchild of Hibernian Hospitality Group’s Niall Hanley officially opened in late October, giving NR dwellers and passersby a swanky spot to sip without heading Downtown.
Sean Junqueira
“The North Raleigh neighborhood really deserves something like this,” says Hanley. “There’s a lot of people here who want to have a cocktail bar experience who don’t want to go Downtown.”
And this one’s a whole vibe—living up to the hype of Hanley’s roster of DTR drinking dens (Aunty Betty’s, Watts & Ward, Botanical Lounge). Think moody noir film-esque dark-gray walls, vibrant red sofas and wingback chairs, and seductive lamps that would make Mad Men’s Don Draper feel right at home.
“We’re trying to capture a nice and elevated vibe—without the pretension that comes along with that,” explains Manager Reese Hailey, formerly of Aunty Betty’s (and People’s Choice winner at our inaugural Cocktail Classic in 2023!). “I want people to feel fancy without being judged about liking what they like—to feel welcomed, and that they have a community here.”
That ethos extends to the cocktail menu—a collaborative lineup of refined yet unfussy libations, both classics-with-a-twist and inventive seasonal sips. And if nothing on that list speaks to you? “Just ask your bartender to whip something up!” says Hailey.
A true speakeasy, Dry Cleaners keeps things discreet—read: no sign—so only those willing to sleuth it out will be able to sidle up to the bar for a ’tail. Pro tip: Look next to the North Raleigh Hibernian. As Hanley spins it: “If you can find it, then you can enjoy it.” Happy hunting!
I do hope with us being here it opens the opportunity for people to expand outside of Downtown Raleigh in the cocktail scene—and also connects the community from Downtown to the rest of Raleigh.” —REESE HAILEY, MANAGER, DRY CLEANERS COCKTAIL BAR
How to spend a fall weekend on the Carolina coast.
If The Summer I Turned Pretty taught us anything, it’s that Wilmington is a bona fide storybook escape (IYKYK). The real-life backdrop for Cousins Beach is prime for a fall getaway, where cooler temps, golden-hour glow, and lighter crowds set the stage for exploring all the port city’s popular musts.
Scenic, sunny and steeped with standout stops, ILM seamlessly blends Southern charm with coastal cool across craveworthy cuisine, spirited bars, gallery gems, primo shops and more—perfect for a road trip or weekend escape when the mountains feel too obvious. Because, really—the coast is always calling.
DO
The Cargo District Shop, eat, drink and play local at this happening hub crafted from repurposed shipping containers. Built to “create, contain and connect,” each of the district’s three sections offer their own unique charm, with a host of varied businesses to venture into. Elevate your fall wardrobe at Auggie & Zo, find a cozy new read at Burning Pages, snag a piece of permanent jewelry at Tiny Weld, then satiate your appetite at Banh Sai, Beat Street or Cheesesmith—to name just a few hot spots. cargodistrict.com
Cucalorus Film Festival Movie buffs, this one’s for you. Putting Wilmywood in the spotlight is one of the largest noncompetitive American film festivals in the South, now in its 31st year. Taking place Nov. 19–23, the fest packs in 100+ independent and international films; diverse original stage performances; and over 50 panels, speakers and workshops. A perf excuse for that fall escape. And… action! cucalorus.org
Olivero “Tastes like travel, feels like home.” So goes the MO of Sunny Gerhart’s (of Raleigh’s St. Roch) worldly restaurant evoking flavors of Sevilla, Sicily and beyond, as inspired by his family history and personal experiences. That culinary tapestry is weaved together in such dishes as bucatini with chorizo and charred broccoli, or coal-roasted NC fish—best washed down with a warming one-of-a-kind cocktail. oliveroilm.com
Elijah’s Oyster & Fish Camp Prepare to be hooked. Since 1984, Elijah’s has served as a trusted source for fresh seafood and genuine Southern coastal dining—also boasting the largest porch on the Riverwalk. Fall marks peak oyster season—so anchor down for roasted or raw shucked-to-order oysters, plus broiled, fried or blackened seafood platters and snacks like baked crap dip and shrimp & grits. elijahs.com
The Half Brooklyn Arts District’s cult-fave sando company is taking the lunch staple to a whole new level (seriously, your homemade version could never). Standouts include the Cuban-esque Mixto feat. pastrami, ham, salami, mozzarella, olive salad and mixto sauce; or the vegetarian Caprese loaded with mozzarella, basil pesto, tomato and balsamic. But you literally can’t go wrong with any order—trust. thehalfbev.com
DRINK
Hidden Grounds Coffee Channeling major T. rex appeal, the dino-themed hidden haven stays busy for good reason. The fall menu shines with seasonal lattes—from the caramel apple-inspired Sundance Kid to the Dubai Me A Latte. Once you secure your bev, head up to the jungle-esque backyard oasis to sip from a perch on a cozy couch, table or swing. The inevitable line is so worth it. hiddengroundscoffee.com
Bespoke “From first light to last call,” this recently reimagined all-day cafe and cocktail bar is there to quench your thirst. By day, swing by for espresso-heavy classics or seasonal lattes—then, by night, keep the buzz alive at the moody wood-clad bar via Italian-inspired aperitivo selects like Appy spritz and Negroni, plus house cocktails, beer and wine. bespokecoffeenc.com
End of Days Distillery The best hour starts at the end of the day—especially at the Wilm-based distillery’s craft cocktail bar, The Lounge. The rugged yet intimate and airy space—plus spacious patio—offers a bright spot to imbibe in artisanal libations made exclusively with End of Days’ distilled-in-house spirits, ranging rum, vodka, gin, agave or whiskey—tailor-made for sweater weather. eoddistillery.com
Matt Ray Photography
STAY
ARRIVE Wilmington At once quaint, chic and playful, this boutique stay checks all the boxes—and then some. Like a mod adult playground with designer details, the inn doubles as a serene escape complete with the courtyard Gazebo Bar, fire pits, a lush lawn with various games, and on-site Southern coastal restaurant Dram Yard serving breakfast and dinner + weekend brunch. Inside, each of the 34 guest rooms offers its own intimate, whimsical retreat with mod amenities (see: marble-accented bathrooms, plush robes and Apple TVs)—fit for a fall reboot. arrivehotels.com
The Cove Riverwalk Villas Life’s better on the water—and the proof is in these 35 custom-designed 1,200-square-foot luxe floating houseboats located directly on the Cape Fear River. Cozy, spacious and stocked with your standard amenities—including Wi-Fi, heat/AC and a loaded kitchen—each villa also boasts a private patio perf for basking in the sunrise and sunset hues. A first of its kind, The Cove sets the standard for a waterfront stay unlike any other. thecovewilmington.com
Front Street Inn History meets hospitality at Front Street’s award-winning boutique inn. Serving up a real home-away-from-home feel, each of the 12 themed suites blends modern touches with historic charm—plus the Coastal Cottage, a full two-bedroom home on the property. Also on-site, the Concorde Espresso Bar tempts with coffee and seasonal lattes by day (plus baked goodies like cookies, croissants and cruffins) and fall-ready espresso ’tini flights and fireside s’mores by night. Say less. frontstreetinn.com
Forget the cocoa—this year’s real holiday spirit comes shaken, stirred and served under twinkly lights. Raleigh bars are upping the seasonal buzz in more ways than one, with a plethora of themed pop-ups decking the halls with cheery cocktails, over-the-top decor and can’t-miss moments. Because after all, who needs mistletoe when you have mezcal. Here’s where to eat, drink and be merry.
Miracle at Killjoy | Nov. 19–Dec. 31 It’s a Christmas miracle! The official Miracle pop-up is once again decking out Killjoy for the second year in a row with decor galore and, ahem, miraculous sips like the new Candy Cane Lane (white rum, vanilla liqueur, dark creme de cacao, minty amaro, candy cane, soy milk) and Dancing Sugarplums (gin, limoncello, plum wine, plum milk syrup, lemon, tiki bitters, nutmeg). Further raising spirits, Killjoy will host multiple events per week like Christmas karaoke, girly nights, DJs and more—ugly sweaters encouraged. And, yes, your fave glassware will be for sale. Yippee-ki-yay! @killjoycocktail
Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill | Nov. 14–Dec. 28 Cowabunga, dude! Santa’s surfin’ back into Wye Hill for the third season, bringing Christmas-in-July vibes a la a tropical theme feat. all-out interior + exterior lights and decorations (no corner untouched!), Tiki-inspired drinks, and memorable festivities. Escape the cold and surf straight to the warm West Coast with brand-new cocktails like the Frost Bite with tequila, sage, pineapple, lime, cranberry syrup and spiced cranberry bitters; and Coco Ho Ho Ho with gold Jamaican rum, lime, coconut, pineapple, pandan syrup and banana liqueur—plus a selection of mocktails to keep everyone merry. And stay tuned for a Christmas drag brunch and Santa photo ops—because we could all use a little extra leisure amid the holiday hustle. @wyehill
Nutcracker Pop-up at Clockwork | Nov. 10–Jan. 31 If the North Pole had fun boozy drinks, Christmas movies on repeat and house DJs, it would be Clockwork’s Nutcracker Pop-up. Delivering holiday vibes on high, the bar will be decked top-to-bottom with ornaments, lights and over 60 nutcrackers (natch)—with plenty of ’tails to get you in the spirit. And new this year: a Christmas Workshop with themed classes, from custom nutcracker painting to ornament making to cocktail classes and more. Let’s make magic! @nutcrackerpopupbar_raleigh
Boxcar Jingle Bar | Begins Nov. 18 Holiday cheer is on tap—in more ways than one—at Boxcar’s Christmas takeover. The arcade bar gets a jolly glow-up (think oodles of lights and decor), with extended hours to boot during the season. “Because sometimes the best part about being home for the holidays… is leaving the house.” @boxcarral
A Dickens Christmas at Watts & Ward | Nov. 20–Dec. 21 The ghost of Christmas past, present and future comes to life at Watts’ brand-new A Christmas Carol-inspired pop-up. The swanky speakeasy has transformed its Library into a Dickens-inspired escape, complete with moody twinkle lights and candles, vintage decor, and themed cocktails—think espresso martinis (original, peppermint, gingerbread and cinnamon) and a Scrooge & Marley number with Buffalo Trace bourbon creme and Buffalo Trace. @wattsandward
Tinsel Tavern at Sports & Social | Nov. 20–Dec. 28 An explosion of tinsel (naturally) and colorful twinkling lights set the scene for the Fenton sports bar’s immersive holiday pop-up experience, complete with several themed events (think cookie and decorating, ornament crafting, and holiday mixology), unique photo ops, holiday-inspired cocktails and small bites. Santa would be sooo jealous. @sportssocialnccary
Miracle at The Haymaker | Nov. 20–Dec. 30 ’Twas the night(mare) before Christmas when all through the bar the cocktails were flowing and the vibes were on par. … Raleigh’s longest-running Miracle pop-up is switching things up this year with a The Nightmare Before Christmas + Christmas Town theme feat. spooky-meets-jolly decor and TBD drinks and events. But if it’s anything like every other holiday season at Haymaker, you know it’s going to be a hit. @haymakerraleigh
Melissa Hom
Flask Cocktail Bar | Nov. 28–Jan. 1 The best time of the year… celebrated with a whole lot of cheer(s). Christmas cocktails, holiday music and colorful decor combine at Flask for a jolly-good time even Clark Griswold would be jealous of. Belly up for a special bev, catch a flick on one of the TVs and look out for visits from Santa—so be sure to stay on the nice list. @flaskcocktailbar
Le Dive Griswold Family Christmas | Dec. 1–31 Get lit like the Griswolds’ house. Le Dive’s National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation pop-up is going full Griswold mayhem with wall-to-wall tinsel, “questionable” holiday cocktails and full-blown festival chaos. Call it a slapstick staycation. @le.dive.bar
Wolfe & Porter | Dec. 1–31 Equal parts festive and rowdy, Wolfe & Porter’s upstairs holiday pop-up ~sleighs~ with over-the-top decorations, special cocktails like peppermint mochas and pomegranate spritzes, Christmas karaoke, a gingerbread house showdown, and more chaotic (in the best way) cheer, all while raising funds for local charities—aka guaranteeing you a spot on the nice list. @wolfeandporter
Disco Candyland at North Street Beer Station | Dec. 4–Jan. 4 Boogie nights 🤝 holiday lights. Get down with your bad self at North Street, teeming with special cocktails, music and dance-party vibes to keep the holiday spirit on high. Here’s hoping they bring back the Disco Holiday Singalong Party so you can deck the halls with disco balls. @northstreetbeer
Junction West | Dec. 6, 13, 19, 20 Sleigh what?! The former bar hangout-turned-event venue is opening back up to the public to spread some holiday cheer(s) via festive cocktails and decor on select days in December. So make a list, check it twice, and plan for a jolly ole time. @junctionwestnc
The Grinch Pop-up at Peggy’s You’re a mean one… Peggy’s is bringing the Whoville vibes to Raleigh via its The Grinch pop-up feat. themed drinks like the Three Sizes Too Small old-fashioned, the bubbly Fah Who Foraze, and The Night Before espresso martini. Clear your schedule, find something nice to wear and drink up! @peggysatthepub
Downtown Raleigh’s hotel game is leveling up. Enter Raleigh hospitality titan Souheil Al-awar’s yet-to-be-named boutique Blount Street hotel, breaking ground this spring and set to debut about a year and a half thereafter. Approved by City Council last summer, the project will boast ~90 boutique rooms across ~seven stories—plus a local-leaning ground-floor restaurant and rooftop restaurant and bar.
“I hear people dismissing Downtown like it’s kind of done,” says the local developer, architect, and Clockwork + The Saint townhomes owner. “That’s such a wrong statement to me because you can never get the feeling of a downtown anywhere else.”
Bookending DTR opposite Longleaf on the northern end, the hotel’s first three stories will match the height of adjacent Prince Hall Masonic Lodge—with much of its facade echoing the hall’s signature red brick.
Beyond the edifice, “I want to give it an interior and a feel that is really original,” he adds. “A lot of hotels are becoming very generic—if you’ve been to one, you’ve been to many. So you have to also give it that feel of hominess—like you’re home when you get there.”
Rooted in Raleigh’s storied history while taking cues from distinctive downtowns like Charleston, the project promises a blend of authenticity and modern flair, reflecting a contemporary European aesthetic that will “thoughtfully integrate the character and history of the Prince Hall neighborhood,” muses Al-awar.
For the F&B-, design- and architecture-minded Al-awar, it’s another “very Raleigh” concept—one that adds a fresh chapter to a historic pocket of DTR. “I really want to do something very specific and very Raleigh at the same time,” he states—“make a splash, make it a destination.”
And there’s no doubt it will. The boutique stay is poised to draw both out-of-towners and locals back into the heart of the city. So, time to check into Raleigh’s next chapter.
“I want to lure people to come into Raleigh—and hospitality would be very important for that. I think Downtown will definitely come back and will come back strong. And I really want to be there for it when it happens.” —SOUHEIL AL-AWAR
