by Lauren Kruchten | May 30, 2023 | Eat, June 2023
The Wandering Moose to open first brick-and-mortar
Not all who wander are lost… And this fan-fave food truck has found its new brick-and-mortar home in North Raleigh, expected to open end of June/early July. The tavern-style outpost boasts a batch of rough-cut barn wood details throughout the interior, complete with barstools, tables and chairs sourced from recently shuttered Sawmill Taproom (co-owner Matt Lundgren previously tended bar there for 10 years)—plus pinball machines (!) and a patio area with sunshades, tea lights and plants. The food truck will be stationed outside, dishing all your Wandering Moose faves—with the op to get food to-go—while the full bar will feature 10 beers on tap and five to six signature ’tails (think an old fashioned, margarita, bloody mary, etc.). “We want to have that just kind of simple neighborhood bar feel,” says Lundgren. “We’re not doing anything over the top; it’s gonna be really simplistic. Our goal is to have a bar for everybody.” That includes sports fans… as the entire space—both indoors and out—is littered with TVs, making it a prime game day spot. @wanderingmoosenc
by Lauren Kruchten | May 30, 2023 | Eat, June 2023
The NCRLA Chef Showdown isn’t just a competition—it’s a platform.
Like a simplified local version of Top Chef, the NCRLA Chef Showdown is a big deal. The annual competition—now in its seventh season—pits chefs, pastry chefs, mixologists and distilleries from across the state against each other to battle it out for the crown of NCRLA Chef of the Year, Pastry Chef of the Year, Bartender of the Year and Distillery of the Year.
But let it be known that these aren’t your Ashley Christensen, Vivian Howard or Scott Crawford gourmands. Instead, the Showdown provides a platform for industry peeps on the comeup to stand out, get noticed and make a name
for themselves.
Take rising star chef Saif Rahman, NCRLA Chef of the Year in 2021 who returned in 2022 to judge the competition—and hopes to return to judge this year as well. “You get a lot of local media attention,” he says. “[Winning] gives you a platform—but it also helps the chefs to represent North Carolina in a different way versus just in their own restaurants.”
Rahman says winning provided him a career boost, local recognition—and bragging rights, natch. And he’s just one of many local names the comp has bolstered—see also: Asheville’s Steven Goff, 2019 NCRLA Chef of the Year and now the owner and executive chef of Tastee Diner; 2022 NCRLA Chef of the Year Oscar Johnson, co-owner of Jimmy Pearls in Charlotte; and 2022 NCRLA Pastry Chef of the Year Lydia Greene of Machete in Greensboro.
“The Chef Showdown has become the place to showcase the incredible talent of the North Carolina hospitality industry,” says NCRLA President and CEO Lynn Minges. And this year’s competition promises to be fierce—and perhaps the most competitive and star-studded yet—with an elite cast of 62 chefs, 14 pastry chefs, and 18 teams of bartenders and distillers in the mix (the most in any year to date) making their way through the rounds from May to August.
And Raleigh came not just to play—but to win (!)—repping in both strength and numbers in this year’s lineup—from culinary contenders Longleaf Swine BBQ’s chef Marc Russell and Cheeni Indian Food Emporium’s Preeti Waas (hey, 2023 James Beard Award semifinalist!) to mixology contenders Wye Hill’s Zac Rogerson and The Willard’s Jessica Rossabi (also the 2022 Bartender of the Year first runner-up. (See the full list of competitors at raleighmag.com.)
Each preliminary round takes place at community colleges across the state, with Raleigh’s own Wake Tech Community College School of Baking and Pastry Arts hosting July 12. A partner of the Chef Showdown for several years now, the college offers ample room and great equipment for the competitors—NTM “the culinary students are so interested in helping where they can,” says Heidi Billotto, a Charlotte-based restaurant, food and travel writer who conceptualized the Chef Showdown in 2016 and continues to contract with the NCRLA to organize the event.
Only 15 chefs and five pastry chefs will move on to compete in the regional rounds and grand finale—with the final elite six of the highest scoring mixology teams set to shake and stir things up for the public at the grand finale. “I’m proud to say this is our biggest year ever—and it’s going to be spectacular,” adds Billotto. Clearly, this year’s NCRLA Chef Showdown will be one for the books. Grande Finale, open to the public, Aug. 14, The Pavilion at Angus Barn, ncrla.org
by Anna Beth Adcock | May 30, 2023 | Eat, June 2023
Sit and sip at Trig Modern’s wine/cocktail bar—coming soon.
Channel your inner Olivia Pope a la Scandal and sip a glass of vino on a nice couch at Trig Modern’s upcoming wine + cocktail bar (cheers to that!). Situated at the front of the store, the bar will serve up boujee alcoholic ops and an unparalleled experience in Raleigh.
New owner Ryan Riek is excited to implement his vision for the updated vibe of the space while maintaining the seasoned mod spot’s signature style and brand as a furniture + lighting showroom.
“We are creating a designer experience,” he says—“a hospitable space where people can bring clients or come hang out on comfy furniture with a glass of wine.” Riek plans for the store’s hours to extend a bit later to accommodate earlier evening bar hangs—not to be confused with a nightclub atmosphere—when the in-store sippin’ commences by the end of summer (*fingers crossed*).
“Our goal is to change the furniture shop experience,” adds Riek. “We want to be the hub for your nontraditional, your modern and your eclectic.” Pour it up! trigmodern.com
by Kelsie Barton | May 30, 2023 | Do, June 2023
Sweating for that summer bod? We turn to Raleigh trainer JoJo Polk to find out what’s hot—and what’s not—on the local fitness scene.
TRENDING
The Great Outdoors
Whether it’s hitting the pickleball court or heading to Lake Johnson for a little SUP action, exercising alfresco is the way to go. “People are biking and running again now that they can get outside and get some fresh air,” says JoJo Polk, a personal trainer at the new FX Fitness located within Raleigh Iron Works. “All things outdoors are trending.” Go on, soak in that vitamin D—your body will thank you.
Futuristic Wearable Tech
Wearable tech has become an essential part of our workout culture thanks to OGs like Orangetheory Fitness. But now, Triangle newcomers such as OHM Fitness and Body20 are introducing even more high-tech experiences: think bodysuits designed with electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) to deliver the benefits of an intense two-hour workout in one quick low-impact session. Notes Polk, a former AFL athlete, “That’s the sports world finally starting to meet the fitness world.” Science rules!
Stability Training
While mobility training has taken TikTok by storm, Polk adds that stability training is also on the rise. “People are working on their balance and their core—and when I say core, I don’t just mean an ab workout,” the fitspert explains. “Everything has to work together, so you have to strengthen everything at once. … You’ve got to work your lower back, your glutes, your hamstrings, your quads.” And even though balance may seem natural, Polk says it actually requires constant practice, especially as people age. “The more you do it, the more comfortable you get with it and the stronger you feel.”
Mind, Body and Soul
If you’ve taken a Hot Girl Walk at any point in the past year, then you already know that mental health is the latest fitness craze (and certainly one we can all get behind). “I think that has always been important, but nowadays it’s taking the forefront,” says Polk. “The mind controls the body, and once you figure that out, the body can do what it’s supposed to because it’s in a good state.” Plus, more studios are jumping on the holistic health bandwagon, offering everything from meditation and breathwork classes to on-site physical therapists, nutritionists and massage therapists for nourishment inside and out. “That’s all part of wellness,” Polk continues. “We think that wellness is just working out and getting fit, but it is training the mind and calming the mind.”
FADING
At-Home Virtual Exercise
With the pandemic now in our rearview, at-home virtual workouts are being replaced by IRL classes. “Even Peloton has taken a big hit,” says Polk. “A lot of people want to engage again, they want to feel like we are normal again, so they are venturing back out.” However, many are still opting for hybrid workouts that combine online instruction with visits to a brick-and-mortar studio. “We don’t need them anymore, but I think they will always have a place,” Polk says of virtual sessions. “In case anything happens again, you can always go online.”
Old-School Pilates
Time to roll up those mats. Pilates is once again booming, but this ain’t your mama’s version of the full-body exercise. From the 3-2-8 method to wall Pilates, the new workout that has every fit-fluencer buzzing provides myriad ways to experiment. “Even places like FlowCORPS and Mega that have the Reformers—a lot of people are moving toward that,” Polk says of the trendy variation involving a machine that focuses on core strength and proper muscle engagement. Talk about a big flex.
Big-Box Gyms
Bye-bye, big box. “[They] are not as trendy as they used to be,” Polk reveals. Instead, there’s been an explosion in small-group fitness boutiques that offer camaraderie as well as clear, personalized instruction. “A lot of people don’t want to go and not know what they’re doing, so they are taking more classes or doing more of a personal studio type,” Polk continues. “At some point in your day, you just want to go and be told what to do and just let that person take over for a little bit.” (It’s me, hi.)
Lengthy Sessions
Forget sweating it out for hours at a time—shorter, optimized workouts and even workout “stacking,” are the next big thing. And the popularity of HIIT, which involves short bursts of vigorous exercise, has certainly helped drive this shift. The most important thing is to simply move your body, even if it’s only in 10- or 20-minute chunks. “Whether it’s a walk, whether it’s a jog, whether it’s Pilates or another workout, just make sure you’re moving every day,” says Polk. “If you can do that, you’re already winning.”
by Anna Beth Adcock | May 30, 2023 | Do, June 2023
Press play on our trail mix of adventures for your summer travel itinerary.
Calling all NC adventurers! It’s the Year of the Trail (!), aka time to walk the walk(s)—literally—and tout our state’s fab and far-reaching network of trails, greenways and blueways reaching from the coastal region to the peaks (fun fact: NC is nicknamed the Great Trails State!). Beyond enjoying natural beauty and a bit of fresh air, trail trekking offers a bevy of benefits, from balance to strength to improved heart, mental and relational health—so bring a walking buddy!
And there’s no better time to tackle our state’s tantalizing trail ops, whether you’re seeking a relaxing refuge or ready to rough it out in the wild like Bear Grylls. Here, we offer up four fun trails around NC fit for a day trip or overnight excursion, along with some spots to sate your appetite afterward and cheers to a successful trek. … Ready to choose your adventure?
DO: Blue Ridge Parkway
Erwins View Trail at Linville Falls
The Blue Ridge Parkway always brings its A-game—and this quick, fam-friendly 1.7-mile out-and-back trail is perf for a quick exploration to get your blood pumpin’ without missing your lunch rez back in town. NTM you’ll fall for the views. Trekkers can nab a glance of the base of Upper Linville Falls and view Lower Linville Falls from above. Never mind what TLC said—rules are meant to be broken. npplan.com
EAT
Stonewalls Restaurant
Nestled in Downtown Banner Elk—but serving Newland, Blowing Rock, Boone and Linville locals alike—this locally owned resto has been touting gourmet steaks, seafood (the crabcakes are fab!), fine wine, and olive oils and balsamics since 1985. Steakcation mode, activated. stonewallsrestaurant.com
DRINK
Blowing Rock Brewing Company
Hey, brew. For a peak experience, belly up to Downtown Blowing Rock for ales and ales of drink and food ops to curb those cravings after a long hike—think burgers, wings and sandwiches. P.S. There’s also wine and bubbly on offer if beer isn’t your thing. Cheers! blowingrockbrewing.com
DO: Appalachian Trail
Max Patch
Want to hike the Appalachian Trail without all the hoopla—or the five to seven month commitment? Take a walk along a section of the AT via this 4,600-foot bald mountain boasting 360 degrees of breathtaking views. To boot, if the weather’s nice, spy Mount Mitchell and the Great Smoky Mountains off in the distance—then stargaze, picnic and lay among the wildflowers. While there’s no camping on the bald, find overnight ops around town in Hot Springs. Trust us, this hike rocks! romanticasheville.com
EAT
The Grey Eagle Taqueria
We’re in our fillings for this authentic and fresh taco joint with a Hot Springs locale (the OG spot opened in Asheville’s The Grey Eagle Music Hall) less than an hour away from Max Patch to sate those post-trail munchies. Nosh on tacos, salads and other Latin American fare made with fresh ingredients prepped in-house. And wash it all down with a marg… you earned it! Can we get an encore?! greyeagletaqueria.com
SHOP
Trust General Store & Cafe
Stop here for some good ’ol Southern hospitality! Situated smack dab between Asheville and Hot Springs (and only a 10-minute commute from Max Patch), this historic and convenient stop is the perf place to nab all those last-minute hiking essentials—groceries, hardware supplies, tees, hats, outdoor accessories, etc.—while also spotting some friendly faces for insider go-tos and grabbing a bite to eat. Tell ’em we sent ya! trustgeneralstore.com
DO: Wilmington
Greenfield Lake Park Trail
A seaside stroll more your jam? Lace up your sneaks for a 3.9-mile jaunt around the loop at this happening Wilmington hot spot for walkers, fishers and bikers alike. A great go-to for families or solo sojourners, the trail touts beautiful views of the water, picnic perches and benches scattered around the park. … And we lake it a lot. wilmington-nc.com
EAT
Indochine
Been there, thai’d that! For authentic Far East eats (Vietnamese, Thai) on the East Coast, roll up hungry to this acclaimed resto where the fare is as fab as the atmosphere (think: outdoor huts, hanging lanterns and a decorated dining room). Fill up on Thai curries, fried rice/noodles, dumplings, house specialties—and don’t forget dessert! Pro tip: The mango sticky rice is a must. See you by the lotus pond? indochinewilmington.com
DRINK
Social Coffee
With an MO we can get behind—“to love others thru coffee”—this Wilmy caffeine staple is a perf stop for an energy boost pre- or post-trail. Find small-batch specialty coffee ops and know those dollars are going to good use as the org partners up with an array of nonprofits. Here’s to contributing to creating positive change—one cuppa at a time! socialcoffeesupply.com
DO: Charlotte
U.S. National Whitewater Center Loop
“Paddle faster, I hear banjos!” … Float on over to Charlotte’s Whitewater Center trail for a hike or bike ride to fit your fancy, whether you’re taking a break from the raging rapids or simply want to explore this moderately challenging 8.7-mile loop. Heads up, parking’ll cost ya $6, but it’s a small price to pay for those pristine outdoor adventure vibes. Let’s get trekking! whitewater.org
EAT
The Goodyear House
Good eats found here! “Built on good times,” this spacious eatery offers a stellar ambiance via its outdoor seating area and filling eats (shrimp and grits! pork belly! smoked cashew mac!)—and we’d be remiss not to give the seasonal cocktails a shoutout. Go on, pull up a chair (and bring along those hiking buddies!)—they’ve got a spot at the table for ya. thegoodyearhouse.com
DRINK
Birdsong Brewing Co.
Care for a brewski? In 2010, husband-and-wife dream team Chris and Tara Goulet joined forces with friends Conor Robinson and Michelle LeBeau to bring homebrewed beer to the Charlotte scene. Pro tip: Sip on its seasonal specialty, Rewind Lime, bringing crisp and refreshing fruity flavors through July. Go on, hop to it! birdsongbrewing.com
