Five Worth-the-Drive Spots Near Raleigh
Eat, shop and splurge outside city limits
Jean’s by the Sea | Durham
Coastal fish shack meets city energy at Jean’s—no beach trip required. Taking over the old Durham Filling Station/Wimpy’s Grill outpost to much buzz, the seafood spot leans all-in on beachy decor, old-school booths and a big patio that channels peak seaside vibes (read: the kind of place you linger). It’s casual, a little kitschy and exactly the kind of place that turns a quick stop into a full night out. Dive into cold snacks like oysters, smoked fish dip and ceviche before moving on to Calabash baskets, peel-and-eat shrimp, and sandwiches. Not sure where to start? Go classic with a basket and work your way out. A cold beer—or colder marg—seals the deal, ensuring a shuckin’ good experience that hits just right on a warm night, especially when the patio’s packed. jeansbythesea.com
Stylish Living | APEX
If your love language is a good find, this is your spot. The ever-rotating boutique and gift shop stocks a smattering of everything. Think clothes, jewelry, beauty, gifts, and home goods like mugs and candles—even snacks—with just enough local flair to make it feel personal. New drops keep regulars coming back, so no two visits hit the same. Perfect for last-minute birthday gifts, hostess saves or a little midweek mood boost. Consider it your go-to when you need something fast—but still want it to feel thoughtful. Translation? Easy gifting, zero overthinking—minus explaining how you popped in for a candle and came out with a full bag. But go ahead and treat yo’self—you deserve it (and yes, they’ll gift-wrap it). @stylish_living_apex
Matsumoto Craft Ramen | Cary
Slurp happens—and at this popular ramen resto, it’s practically encouraged. With decades of combined experience behind the counter, the ramen spot delivers rich broths and handmade noodles that have you checking you didn’t wake up in Asia—think flavorful ramens like tonkotsu, miso and curry, alongside black garlic chicken and fried tofu. The menu covers the spectrum, so whether you’re craving something rich and indulgent or lighter and brothy, there’s a lane. Apps like karaage, gyoza and edamame round it out, but the real draw is the depth of umami in every bowl, so when you come hungry, you’ll leave warm and fully satisfied—no late-night snack required. tasuasianbistro.com
Market on Market | Durham
Three birds—er, brands—one stone. The Market Street retail incubator (hence the name) lets you shop—and support—three Black women-owned businesses all in one pass, from mod apothecary Be Well Co. to eco-minded lifestyle brand EKO and stationery-meets-gift shop BLNK SPCE Designs. It’s an easy way to discover new brands and a mix of practical and playful goodies without committing to a full day of shopping. Part boutique, part test lab for emerging brands, the program lets entrepreneurs experiment and grow while giving you the opp to get first dibs while they build what’s next—botanical facial toner, statement necklaces and cheeky stickers in tow. @marketonmarketstreet
Baekho Coffee & Ice Cream | RTP
Coffee and ice cream—name a better duo, we’ll wait. Fuel up and cool down with a stop at the Boxyard RTP ~cool~ spot, where the crew behind Namu, Bulkogi and The Can Opener is turning out Korean-inspired drinks that go beyond your usual order and raise the bar on traditional coffees via playful well-balanced pours running the gamut from a creamy Butterscotch Candy Latte to the Berry Blush Matcha and Yuzu Citron Espresso Tonic that actually works. When it comes to dessert, scratchmade ops come by the cup, waffle cone, topped with matcha or in milkshake form. Basically, your summertime afternoon reset, post-work treat or casual date spot, handled. Come for a pick-me-up, stay because you turned it into a treat run. @baekhonc
