What will the Michelin Guide American South mean for Raleigh?
Raleigh may finally be seeing stars. The Michelin Guide announced the launch of its Guide American South, encompassing NC, alongside five states including Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina and Tennessee, plus the preexisting Atlanta Guide. Inspectors are already scouting out the South’s top culinary gems to be featured in North America’s first regional guide—meaning they could be right here in Raleigh already.
Long the gold standard of culinary excellence, Michelin is the authority on the best dining across the globe, only launching guides in dining destinations it deems worthy. These guides impart a host of short reviews and symbols for restaurants, the most esteemed being the star—which can be added or taken away. And, no doubt, the star’s reverence is in how hard it is to achieve.
Man of the Hour Yes—this Michelin is the same one fitting up your ride. Before “Michelin” became a beacon of foodie fame, it was—and still is—the French-born tire company that splashed onto the resto scene with the launch of its first guide in 1900.
For years, Raleigh restaurateurs have been working to raise the bar within our local food scene, and, clearly, it’s already paying off. The Cap City has definitely earned its pushpin on the foodie map—for starters, see this year’s list of James Beard Foundation Awards semifinalists. But as illustrious as Beard is, Michelin is next-level.
The exclusivity factor alone tells most of the story. Michelin dropped its inaugural North American Guide in New York City in 2005 (expanding to include Westchester County in 2020), continuing its U.S. rollout with editions in Chicago, DC and San Francisco—the latter marking Michelin’s first statewide expansion to California in 2019, created in partnership with Visit California. And, in 2022, Michelin launched its premiere Florida Guide in collab with Visit Florida, spanning Tampa, Miami and Orlando—with three additional destinations added this year to include Greater Fort Lauderdale, The Palm Beaches and St. Pete-Clearwater.
Making the Cut
Michelin awards up to three stars based on five criteria:
Quality of ingredients/products used
Mastery of flavor and cooking techniques
Personality of the chef in cuisine
Harmony of flavors
Consistency between visits
Beyond winning bragging rights and exclusive status, stars translate to tourism—and dollars. Pundits have long postured that restaurants play a significant role in a city’s economic prosperity. Researchers observing Michelin’s impact in Chicago found “an increase of one Michelin Guide restaurant leads to a .5% increase (or roughly $1,141) in the home value of the median home in a neighborhood.”
The undeniable boost in business aside, Michelin recognition can represent the pinnacle of a chef’s aspirations. “…I never dreamed Michelin would come to the South,” reminisces Crawford Hospitality’s Scott Crawford. “Having cooked in the American South most of my career, it is amazing to see Michelin recognize our region as one worthy of a guide. Southern cities can now attract more hospitality professionals with aspirations of opening or working in Michelin-star restaurants.” Beyond Raleigh, culinary hot spots across the South will finally get the recognition they deserve.
Who Judges? Inspecting potential star-studded restaurants are highly trained and educated critics with seasoned résumés. And adding that certain je ne sais quoi factor—and ensuring they receive the real resto experience—the true identities of inspectors are kept quiet. Think Central Intelligence Agency meets Culinary Institute of America.
Which local restos—if any—make the list won’t be unveiled until the annual Michelin Guide ceremony for the American South (date TBD). Until then, you’ll find us still wishing on that star.
Got a hankering for some hooch? These speakeasies within five hours of Raleigh are worth the drive.
Here to add a little more je ne sais quoi to your nightlife routine are six more juice joints worth daytripping for. Offering a change of scenery, a little mystery (secret entrances and passwords, oh my!) and some serious booze-forward libations, these blind pig picks also promise to be the bee’s knees for back-alley boozehounds. Pro tip: Grab a hotel and turn your speakeasy sesh into a weekend stay. Or make a 2024 bucket list to try them all. Cheers!
Mirror, mirror, what are you hiding behind that wall? Located only three blocks from The White House, The Mirror is accessible by heading down some concrete stairs next to an empty office building and pulling back a mirror (pretty on brand, right?). Over 100 years after Prohibition, the intimate speakeasy keeps the party going with drinking, dancing and breaking the rules.
We’ll have some Jailhouse… on the rocks! This historic 1960s era bar and cigar lounge is located within the cells of downtown Belmont’s former jail—so criminal. So if you’re into whiskeybusiness, steal around to the back of the building for entry. Once inside, explore the concrete-covered rooms with snaps from the past; then snag a seat at the steel-top bar or puff on a cigar in the downstairs lounge. And don’t worry: Here, you’re only potential crime is ordering too many cocktails. But, hey, when in jail…
Once a grocery (hence the name), this circa 1820 building now houses restaurant Tavern & Grocery… but creep down the back staircase and you’ll find cellar cocktail bar Lost Saint, which boasts a relaxed and friendly yet sophisticated vintage atmosphere and an impressive wine and cocktail menu totes worth descending for.
Craving a post-pizza dinner adventure? Head to the unmarked entrance next door to Italian restaurant Fortunato and find yourself in this cozy speakeasy serving up classic and craft cocktails (set to reopen soon!). There’s no better way to lift your spirits.
If you’re into socializing and a smidge of tomfoolery, this small members-only speakeasy is for you. Known for its thoughtful cocktails (plus interesting wines and local and regional beers), Earnest Money & Sons is the captivating combination of your friendly neighborhood bar and the thrilling mystery of an old-time speakeasy.
Je ne regrette rien. No regrets indeed as you slip down the original historic staircase at this French Brasserie la Banque, where you’ll be instantly transported back in time (and across the Atlantic) via art deco-inspired furnishings and an intimate bar. Pop a squat and indulge in Parisian eats like French onion soup, steak frites, and duck leg while sipping on creative cocktails. Ooh, la, la!
We tapped top editors around the country for what’s hot right now—and what’s coming in 2024.
In almost every facet of life, what’s in fashion is cyclical (see: skinny brows, flare jeans, clear liquors…). But when it comes to our ever-evolving palates—flavors don’t just fall in and out of favor. What’s new and now seems to only sate our unending appetite for the next best thing for mere moments, leaving it hard to fathom what’s next. But, lucky for us, regions vary on their timing and fervor for the newest flavor… each trend-setting city teeming with critics—er, citizens—ready to deem the latest “it” factor or passing fad.
As we look ahead to the year to come, we know no one has a better vantage point into the looking glass than city mag editors. So, we tapped a handful of top brass around the country in cities we’re oft compared to or chasing to help us forecast what’s hot right now and what’s coming in 2024. And in my convos with these six foodie experts, one thing’s for certain—2024 is gonna be a vibe.
Retro classics: “One of Dallas’ hottest restaurants serves sole meunière, lamb Wellington, and lobster thermidor. We’re partying like it’s 1965.” Clubby Korean restaurants: “All-you-can-eat BBQ… and bottle service. Kimchi… and bouncers.” Beer-flavored beer: “After years of pushing various boundaries, Texas breweries are falling back in love with plain old light lagers, pilsners and pale ales.” Small business bonds: “Most unusual of all, a Dallas bakery recently issued small business bonds. Here’s an interview about it and the actual bond account.”
Photo by Carly Cooper
Atlanta —Carly Cooper, Writer & Editor Atlanta magazine
Headshot by Lia Picard
Influx of omakase: “Atlanta has seen an influx of omakase restaurants—from Omakase by Yun to Brush. Mujō and Hayakawa were even awarded one Michelin star for their offerings.” Vegan en vogue: “From plant-based burger enterprise Slutty Vegan to Latin-flavored La Semilla, vegan restaurants have burst onto the scene.” Modern Mexican: “Modern Mexican is taking Atlanta by storm with regional dishes like squash blossom quesadillas at Oaxaca, creative cocktails at Palo Santo, and seafood-forward fare at D Boca N Boca.”
Photo courtesy of Amar
Boston —Rachel Leah Blumenthal, Food Editor Boston magazine
Local seafood, global inspirations: “An increasing number of Greater Boston-area restaurants are showcasing global cuisines using our beautiful local products—like brilliant new Vietnamese cocktail bar The Eaves or new upscale Portuguese restaurant Amar. Ember-grilled Maine lobster with Azorean pineapple and preserved fennel, anyone?” Fine dining: “Special-occasion dining has taken a much more casual spin in recent years. Patrons—particularly young professionals—are excited to pay top dollar for incredible food in crowded, energetic restaurants with booming soundtracks; zero dress codes; service that’s friendly but far-removed from old-school fawning hospitality; and flavor-packed, hands-on small plates to be dug into with friends. Special-occasion dining has taken a much more casual spin in recent years. Take Lenox Sophia—one of the highest-ranking restaurants on our just-updated guide to Boston’s 50 best restaurants. You’ll pay upward of $100 per person for an elegant and expertly prepared prix fixe menu, but the vibe is casual, like you’re in chef-owner Shi Mei’s own home.” Dramatic cocktails: “We’re a little in danger of leaning too gimmicky on this front, but a lot of recent additions to Boston’s cocktail scene are carefully striking the right balance: Craft cocktails with fun, over-the-top presentations are having a big moment here right now. Secret passwords, plenty of things on fire, garnishes bigger than the drinking vessel, hair-related puns (see: Boston’s appropriately named Wig Shop)… sure!”
Tinned fish: “Move over, ceviche! Conservas have become the ‘it’ appetizer, with briny options popping up on menus— from hotel bars to hot restaurants.” Nonalcoholic scene has gotten huge: “There are NA drinks on every menu; tons of zero-proof brands based here; and Austin is home to the country’s first NA bar, Sans Bar.” Restaurant bathroom decor: “Featuring custom murals, neon signs and even disco balls, these eye-catching loos all but demand a selfie.” IG-worthy cocktails: Beyond ’Grammable ’tails, “speakeasies are everywhere, shrimp cocktail seems to be having a moment and burgers in general seem to be everywhere.”
Photo courtesy of Tuk Tuk
Chicago —Amy Cavanaugh, Dining Editor Chicago magazine
Hyper-regional fare: “We’re seeing new spots open focusing on hyper-regional cuisines, such as at Thattu, which serves the food of Kerala, and Tuk Tuk, which serves Isan fare.” Sober curious: “Low and no-alcohol drinks continue to grow in popularity, and we’ve especially been seeing nonalcoholic wines recently.” Affordable fine dining: “Chicago is known for its fine-dining scene, and the past couple of years more affordable tasting menus have sprung up. It’s a reaction to the pandemic and the issues that restaurants still face, and it makes luxe meals more approachable for diners.”
Photo courtesy of Gallery Armada
DC —Jessica Sidman, Food Editor Washingtonian
Maximalism is in: “The TikTok boom, increased prices and pent-up pandemic demand have all converged to make dining out feel more like an event. The result is over-the-top decor, plus dishes and drinks that come with a show.” Food halls gone fancy: “Food halls aren’t just glorified food courts anymore. They’re home to Michelin restaurants and high-end omakase menus, and they’re attracting talent from some of the city’s top restaurants. The Square and Love, Makoto—which both opened in 2023—are two prime examples.” French food wave: “Maybe because it’s a familiar cuisine in uncertain times. Maybe it’s just another example of a cyclical food trend. But the DC area has seen a lot of French restaurant openings over the past year—from the refined regional cooking at Petite Cerise to comforting bistro classics at Josephine.” Everything’s a vibe: “We’re seeing lots of restaurants that are more about the scene than what’s on the plate.” Service fees everywhere: “In 2022, DC residents voted to phase out the tipped wage system that allows restaurants to subsidize the base pay of servers and bartenders with gratuity from diners. To make up for increased labor costs, many restaurants have implemented mandatory service fees, which can range from 3 to 22%. That’s causing a lot of confusion among diners about tipping expectations.”
Sorry, Buddy the Elf, but the best way to spread Christmas cheer is raising a glass of spiked eggnog at a festive pop-up bar—we don’t make the rules! Ring in the season at these holly jolly watering holes across the Carolinas that have decked their halls with themed cocktails, twinkling lights and so much more.
Miracle at The Haymaker Raleigh
Ready to get lit like a Christmas tree? Once again, DTR cocktail bar The Haymaker transforms into a whimsical holiday haven complete with playful cocktails, like the new Marshmallows & Unicorns or fan-fave Yippie Ki Yay Mother F****r—all served in Miracle’s signature kitschy glassware.
Insider tip: This hot spot is first come, first serve, so be prepared to stand in line—however, General Manager Josh Gagne says, “our goal is to operate so you don’t have to wait once you get inside.” Or, try going early in the week when the crowd’s not as intense. Through Dec. 31, thehaymakerraleigh.com
St. Nick’s Raleigh
“St. Nick’s is the embodiment of holiday cheer and festive fun,” says owner Mikhail Wright of this Raleigh pop-up that touts a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Featuring signature cocktails, interactive art installations and a cozy fireplace, it’s the ideal destination for any crew looking to start a new Christmas tradition. Keep an eye out for special events including live music, themed parties and an appearance by Santa himself. Santa, I know him!
Insider tip: While reservations aren’t required, they are recommended for larger groups to ensure a comfortable experience. Tickets are $10 per person and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Through Jan. 5, stnicksnc.com
Photo by Randy Schmidt, courtesy of Wye Hill
Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill Raleigh
Santa’s gone on holiday to the tropics—er, Wye Hill. For the first time ever, Raleigh’s fave patio will be hosting a festive leisure-inspired oasis rooted in the celebration of “togetherness, relaxation and the importance of leisure time often overlooked by the bustle of the holidays,” says co-owner Sara Abernethy. Um, we’ll cheers to that (!). Surf into the season with tropical cocktails and memorable festivities alongside Wye’s regular food menus. Hang loose!
Insider tip: Reservations are highly recommended. And, yes, you can purchase the nostalgic surf culture-esque glassware to take home with you. Through Dec. 31, wyehill.com
Tinseltown at Billy Sunday Charlotte
Located within Charlotte’s Optimist Hall, Billy Sunday ushers in a top-to-bottom holiday takeover to celebrate the most wine-derful time of the year. “Any surface that could be decorated, will be decorated,” says GM Annie Stevenson of the cocktail bar’s Tinseltown concept. “We want people to feel the same butterflies we felt as children when thinking about Christmas on its way.” Seasonal sips such as a sugar cookie martini, apple pie Old-Fashioned and housemade coquito make the experience even sweeter.
Insider tip: Arrive early or snag a spot on the waitlist, especially on weekends when the food hall is bustling with diners and shoppers. Through Dec. 31, billy-sunday.com
Miracle at The Golden Pineapple Asheville
“Imagine the most over-the-top, wild holiday party all your friends want to be at… that’s Miracle at The Golden Pineapple!” says co-owner Katey Devitt-Ryder of the buzzy West Asheville pop-up. Floor-to-ceiling decorations and Instagrammable sips—we’re talking cocktails served in mugs shaped like Santa pants, a Christmas T-rex and even a Krampus this year—set the backdrop for a magical night you may or may not remember…
Insider tip: For parties larger than eight guests, Miracle at The Golden Pineapple offers bar buyouts. Drink up, grinches! Through Dec. 31, goldenpineapplebar.com
White Christmas at Harold’s Cabin Charleston
If you’re headed to the Holy City, don’t miss this holiday bar that’s truly a feast for the senses. “Each year our upstairs lounge, The Pickled Beat, is transformed into a different world,” says owner John Schumacher. “We want our guests to escape for an hour (or more!) into the holidays.” Picture decor and lights galore, a rotating winter drink menu (the fermented eggnog and Naughty Ginger cocktails are must-trys), holiday movies on TV and more.
Insider tip: Look for the upside-down Christmas tree as it makes “the perfect backdrop for fun group photos,” Schumacher shares. And for those who prefer a more intimate experience, Harold’s Cabin also offers a semiprivate rooftop Cabin Igloo that seats eight guests. Through Jan. 6, haroldscabin.com
Seeking a surprise-filled saunter? Well, buckle up. If you’ve ever wanted to take an adventurous and off-the-beaten-path road trip without all the planning, Guess Where Trips has got you covered.
The brainchild of Jessica Off, what began as a creative Christmas present to her parents has since blossomed into a full-blown biz sending travelers to a slew of surprise scenic spots based on their trip style. The road trip venture touts starting points in cities in Canada and the Southern U.S.—with NC most recently making the list (!).
Guess Where Trips offers five ubercool and curated NC trip itineraries—with Raleigh and Charlotte-area launch pads—ranging from a leisurely travel day to overnight/weekend excursions. For our Raleigh roamers, a “Sandhills Sauntering” could be just the ticket for a low-maintenance warm weather foray (hey, picturesque drives, trail trekking, art explorations and one-of-a-kind photo ops!).
Each trip includes four planned stops and an explanation of what to know before you go—with just enough deets to keep you prepped without ruining the surprise. To wit, the creative travel company doesn’t send travelers out on expeditions they haven’t tried and tested themselves. The team’s boots-on-the-ground approach ensures your mystery adventure will be well planned—with delightful destinations sprinkled along the road less traveled, plus myriad choices to appeal to all types of interests.
“It was so interesting to research all the hidden gems around North Carolina,” says Off. “There are so many historic and quaint towns, fantastic restaurants, photo moments, and scenic roads that made it really easy to plan a road trip there.”
And amping up Raleigh’s road trip appeal, the City of Oaks is Guess Where Trips’ most popular sauntering select in the state—leading Off to consider creating another Raleigh-area trip based on the high demand.
“There’s still so much you can do in the state. I didn’t think I wanted to come home—it was beautiful in North Carolina and I was very in love with it,” laughs Sydney Schouten, trip producer. … Obviously, we have to agree.
As they look to the horizon, the wanderlust enterprise plans to expand excursion opps into the Baltimore and DC area in the near future. … Ready to guess where you’re going next? guesswheretrips.com
