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General Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry

Endodontics

Oral Surgery

Sedation Dentistry

Pediatric Dentistry

Dental Implants

Orthodontics

Periodontics

Prosthodontics

Pick-Your-Own Staycation: Get away just down the road

ABOUT OUR TOWNS

Go Above and Beyond: Thrills for everyone at new Bond Park Challenge Course

22 Cary Places Priority on Quality of Life

23 Discover why Apex is Known as the “Peak of Good Living”

24 ‘Live Connected, Live Well’ in Morrisville

25 Growth and the Good Life in Holly Springs

26 A Dash More in Fuquay-Varina

THINGS TO DO

48 Sweet on Pickleball: Western Wake towns adapt to fast-growing sport

52 Wall to Wall: Explore murals in Western

A’verde Cocina + Tequila Library: A Top Chef’s dream becomes a reality

Recipe for Better Health

A dash of caring. Ample amounts of compassion. A pinch of virtual visits. Add online wait times and appointments. Mix in experience, expertise and primary care practices just about everywhere. And, voila, you have the highest quality care for you and your family. Primary care that’s as accessible as it is convenient. Served up as only the nurses and physicians at WakeMed can. Learn more at wakemed.org/primary-care. Because, when it comes to the health of your family, we recommend only the very best ingredients.

INGREDIENTS

• Adult & Family Medicine

• Behavioral Health Services

• Chronic Disease Management

• Dermatology

• Preventive Medicine & Wellness

• Physical Exams & Medicare Annual Wellness Visits

• Tobacco Cessation Program

• Weight Loss

• Women’s Health

• Vaccines

DYNAMIC DISCOVERERS

an introduction to western wake

2022-2023 • Volume 5

EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher

Kris Schultz, Publisher

EDITORIAL

Lauren Earley, Managing Editor & Creative Director

Erica Hinton, Associate Editor

Dena Daw, Staff Writer

Tara Shiver, Copy Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

David McCreary

Amber Keister

Marty Simpkins

Emily Uhland

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

PRODUCTION

Atiya Batts, Graphic Designer

Jennifer Casey, Graphic Designer

Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer

Beth Harris, Graphic Designer

Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO

Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer

Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Manager

Natalia Ortega, Account Executive

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications

Chuck Norman, APR

ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting

Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager

Lisa White, Circulation Coordinator

Valerie Renard, Human Resources

Arlem Mora, Social Media Coordinator

PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Ron Smith

Look West © is published annually by Cherokee Media Group. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

CHEROKEE MEDIA GROUP

Westview at Weston

701 Cascade Pointe Lane, Cary, North Carolina 27513 (919) 674-6020 • (800) 608-7500 • Fax (919) 674-6027 www.carymagazine.com

This publication does not endorse, either directly or implicitly, the people, activities, products or advertising published herein. Information in the magazine is deemed credible to the best of our knowledge.

Cary Magazine is a proud member and supporter of all five chambers in Western Wake County: the Cary Chamber of Commerce, Apex Chamber of Commerce, Morrisville Chamber of Commerce, Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and Garner Chamber of Commerce. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All dwellings advertised are available on an equal-opportunity basis.

Jean Guevarra You, DDS

Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Now Accepting New Patients

Early Morning, Late Afternoon & Friday Appointments Available.

In-Network with Most Insurance Carriers.

In-House Membership Plan Available

Now Accepting New Patients

Video Games, T.V.s, Photo Booth, Wi-Fi, Phone Charging Station, Coffee Bar & More

“...Dr. You was amazing. She was so kind, patient and down-to-earth, and that not only put my son at ease, but me as well. We’re thrilled to have found such a warm, welcoming practice and we look forward to being patients for many years to come!”

“Dr. You is so knowledgeable, kind and patient...Highly recommend!”

“...Dr. You was amazing. She was so kind, patient and down-to-earth, and that not only put my son at ease, but me as well. We’re thrilled to have found such a warm, welcoming practice and we look forward to being patients for many years to come!”

-Ayub A.

-Brendan

S.

“Dr. You is so knowledgeable, kind and patient...Highly recommend!”

-Ayub

A.

“I can not say enough good things about Dr. Jean You! She and her staff were extremely welcoming to my son and me at our recent visit. Dr. Jean was amazing with my son - very calm and comforting. She explained everything she was going to do before doing anything. You can tell that Dr. Jean has a true passion for this profession and loves what she does. We had an awesome experience at Little Tooth Co. and are so appreciative of the care that we received. If you are looking for a wonderful dentist to take your child to, you definitely need to become a patient of this practice!”

“I can not say enough good things about Dr. Jean You! She and her staff were extremely welcoming to my son and me at our recent visit. Dr. Jean was amazing with my son - very calm and comforting. She explained everything she was going to do before doing anything. You can tell that Dr. Jean has a true passion for this profession and loves what she does. We had an awesome experience at Little Tooth Co. and are so appreciative of the care that we received. If you are looking for a wonderful dentist to take your child to, you definitely need to become a patient of this practice!”

-Erin D. Tel

-Erin

D.

The Raleigh-Durham area is often described as a large city with smalltown charm, and as a resident of the Triangle for the past 12 years, I’m here to tell you — they’re not wrong! Thanks to a plethora of elite colleges, top-ofthe-line health care, plentiful green space, and a smorgasbord of festivals and community activities, this area has been recognized as one of the best places to live in the US for years!

Yes, our population is growing, but so is our appeal — the City of Oaks and its surrounding areas have an “I love me” wall that puts other cities to shame. Here’s just a smattering of what the area has to offer!

CARY: In 2022, Cary was ranked the #7 Safest City and #1 Most Affordable Safe City in the US, according to smartasset.com . In 2021, Cary was ranked #1 as the nation’s safest mid-sized city by AdvisorSmith, a resource for business advice and original research.

APEX: Apex was named #1 Best Place to Live in the US by Money Magazine in August 2015. More recently, Apex was named the fastest-growing suburb in the US by realtor.com and the #3 Best Suburb to Raise a Family in NC by Niche in 2022.

MORRISVILLE: In 2021, the Town of Morrisville was honored as a recipient of the All-America City award, recognizing the town’s inclusive civic engagement to build equity and create stronger connections among residents, businesses, nonprofits, and government leaders. Morrisville was also ranked as the #1 Place to Live in NC in 2019 by Housing Predictor, a national real estate survey company. Thanks to its efforts to go green, Morrisville was named the Greenest City in NC in 2019 by Insurify.

HOLLY SPRINGS : For the past five years, Holly Springs has been ranked the #1 Safest City in NC according to Homesnacks and SafeWise. In 2019, the town was ranked #1 in ippia.com ’s Best City for Jobs in NC and was named the safest municipality in the Triangle.

FUQUAY-VARINA : Just south of Holly Springs sits Fuquay-Varina, ranked #1 by MonkeyGeek as the Safest Small Town in NC in both 2021 and 2022. The town was also ranked #6 Best Suburb in the Country to Move To in 2021 by homes.com — the only NC suburb represented in the top 10.

As anyone who lives here will tell you, these highlights are only a sampling of the benefits of living and working in Wake County! Enjoy this overview of our beautiful little corner of the world, whether you’re new here or you’ve never left.

Stay healthy and happy, neighbors!

Lauren Morris Earley Managing Editor & Creative Director, Cary Magazine

“Dr. Lawrence, Dr. C., the hygienists, and the office

–TIM H

ANNUAL EVENTS

JANUARY

MLK JR. DREAMFEST

Join others in the community to remember the life and efforts of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in downtown Cary through music, film, and service. townofcary.org/dreamfest

TRIANGLE RESTAURANT WEEK

Nearly 100 area restaurants cook up special dishes and menus for this annual event. trirestaurantweek.com

FEBRUARY

KRISPY KREME CHALLENGE

The best way to run 5 miles is to eat a dozen Krispy Kreme donuts in the middle of it. That’s exactly what you’ll do when you participate in the Krispy Kreme Challenge held every year in Raleigh. krispykremechallenge.com

MARCH

RALEIGH ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL

Don’t forget to wear green to this fun-filled and family-friendly parade that makes its way through downtown Raleigh. raleighstpats.org

There’s always something going on in Western Wake. These annual events and festivals bring people out to listen to music, enjoy great food, and celebrate the community.

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN FREDIN

APRIL

BREWGALOO

If you love craft beer, you won’t want to miss this. North Carolina brewers team up with food trucks and vendors to take over downtown Raleigh for a weekend of food, drink, and fun. shoplocalraleigh.org/brewgaloo

HOLLY SPRINGS SPRING FLING

Celebrate springtime with music, inflatables, and fun for the whole family at Jefferson L. Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park. hollyspringsnc.us/360/spring-fling

SPRING DAZE ARTS MARKET

Get crafty at the annual Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, where you can enjoy local North Carolina art, food, and entertainment in beautiful Bond Park. townofcary.org/recreation-enjoyment/events/ festivals/spring-daze-arts-and-crafts-festival

MAY

ARTSPLOSURE –THE RALEIGH ARTS FESTIVAL

See Raleigh in full color at this weekend-long event to celebrate the arts. raleighartsfestival.com

MORRISVILLE SPRINGFEST

See Morrisville’s Town Hall Drive transformed into a carnival with games, rides, food trucks, and fun for the whole family. townofmorrisville.org

TURTLEFEST

Meet live animals and complete a scavenger hunt at this fun, family-friendly event at Bass Lake Park in Holly Springs. hollyspringsnc.us/361/turtlefest

WHEELS ON ACADEMY

Calling all car fans! Go back in time and see the wheels of yesteryear line Academy Street in downtown Cary. townofcary.org/wheels

APEX PEAKFEST

Celebrate the Peak of Good Living with live music, carnival rides, fair food, and fun. apexpeakfest.com

FEST IN THE WEST

Head to USA Baseball Training Complex at Cary’s Thomas Brooks Park for pie-eating contests, a food truck rodeo, and plenty of live music! festinthewest.com

JUNE

AMERICAN DANCE FESTIVAL

If you love to dance, or just love watching it, check out this annual summer showcase of great performances. americandancefestival.org

TRIANGLE RESTAURANT WEEK

All around the Triangle, your favorite restaurants offer special dining menus and deals during this week of good eats. trirestaurantweek.com

Artsplosure, The Raleigh Arts Festival

Please check websites for the most up-to-date event information.

O-Ku, Raleigh

JULY

ICE CREAM SOCIAL

Any day is a good day to eat ice cream, but head to Fuquay-Varina for National Ice Cream Day. Free ice cream, tea, and lemonade will be served. fuquay-varina.org/844/Ice-Cream-Social

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

Get patriotic with live music, kids’ rides, and fireworks at South Park in Fuquay-Varina. fuquay-varina.org/840/Independence-DayCelebration

JULY 4TH CELEBRATION AT KOKA BOOTH AMPHITHEATRE

You won’t want to miss the rides, patriotic music, and fireworks at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre. boothamphitheatre.com

JULY 4TH PANCAKE BREAKFAST

The Morrisville Fire Department serves up a pancake breakfast for the community, complete with flapjacks, sausage, and orange juice. townofmorrisville.org

OLDE FASHIONED FOURTH OF JULY

Celebrate America’s birthday in Apex at this patriotic street fair. The highlight is Uncle Sam’s Parade of Wheels, which features kids and their decorated vehicles. apexnc.org/532/Olde-Fashioned-Fourth-of-July

PEAK CITY PIG FEST

Highlighting all things smoky and saucy with a barbecue-cooking competition, street vendors, and pig races in the heart of Apex. peakcitypigfest.com

HOLLY SPRINGS JULY 5TH

Face painting, fireworks, food, rides, crafts, and skydiving are all at this celebration of America’s birthday. hollyspringsnc.us/358/July-5th

AUGUST

LAZY DAZE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

The Town of Cary’s largest festival of the year, this two-day downtown event features more than 300 artists, food vendors, a beer garden, performances, and a kids’ zone. townofcary.org/lazydaze

SEPTEMBER

HOPSCOTCH MUSIC FESTIVAL

With 120 bands over three days, Hopscotch is known for adventurous lineups, memorable performances, and a fan-friendly atmosphere in downtown Raleigh. hopscotchmusicfest.com

WORLD OF BLUEGRASS

This week-long bluegrass experience includes Wide Open Bluegrass, two days of concerts featuring 100-plus artists and eight stages in downtown Raleigh. worldofbluegrass.org

OCTOBER

BASS LAKE DAY

Pack up the family and head to Bass Lake Park for a day of live music, interactive nature exhibits, crafts, and live animals. hollyspringsnc.us/350/Bass-Lake-Day

CARY DIWALI

Also known as The Festival of Lights, Diwali encourages artistic expression through vibrant performances, unique exhibits, and colorful decorations. townofcary.org/recreation-enjoyment/ events/holiday-events/diwali-celebration

CELEBRATE FUQUAY-VARINA FESTIVAL

A festive event with live entertainment, craft beer, food, a chili cook-off, art vendors, and a free kids’ zone. celebratefv.com

Cary’s Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Fesitval

Koka Booth Amphitheatre

ARTS & CULTURAL VENUES

There’s no need to go far to enjoy a great live performance or art exhibit. The Western Wake arts scene is vibrant and growing, attracting nationally known musicians and homegrown talent.

CARY ARTS CENTER

101 Dry Ave., Cary; (919) 469-4069; townofcary.org

The downtown hub of arts activity, the Arts Center has a 431-seat theater, open studio space, youth classes and camps, and a variety of exhibitions. It is also the home of two performance programs — the Marvelous Music Series and Applause! Cary Youth Theatre.

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

123 E. Vance St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 567-3909; fvarts.org

The facility, which opened in March 2019, includes a 294-seat theater, an art gallery, studio space, classrooms and meeting spaces.

HALLE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

237 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 249-1120; thehalle.org

The beautifully restored 1912 building hosts a variety of cultural performances, visual art exhibits, and movies. Camps and classes for children and seniors are also offered.

HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

300 West Ballentine St., Holly Springs; (919) 567-4000; hollyspringsnc.us

Performance and meeting spaces include an intimate 184-seat theater, a conference center, a spacious lawn for outdoor concerts, and a lobby exhibition space for rotating art shows. The Holly Springs Community Library is also housed in the same complex.

FUQUAY-VARINA HAUNTED TRAIL

Choose the sunny, family-friendly walk through the park or the Full Fright option after dark. fuquay-varina.org/714/Halloween-Trail

HOLLYFEST

The Town of Holly Springs joins with churches, civic organizations, and businesses for this annual community celebration at Jefferson L. Sugg Farm Park. hollyspringsnc.us/356/HollyFest

NC STATE FAIR

A first-class, family-oriented entertainment and educational event complete with rides, fried food, livestock, and giant vegetables. ncstatefair.org

TRICK OR TREAT THE TRAIL

Collect goodies from costumed characters on the paved Hatcher Creek Trail at Morrisville Community Park. The Morrisville Police and Fire Departments also sponsor a Trunk or Treat. townofmorrisville.org/government/ departments-services/parks-recreationcultural-resources/special-events/trick-or-treatthe-trail-trunk-or-treat

TOUCH-A-TRUCK

Leave the toys at home and see the real thing in Apex. Get up close and personal with fire, police, garbage trucks, and the people who operate them.

apexnc.org/959/touch-a-truck

NOVEMBER

APEX TURKEY TROT 5K RUN

Chase down that turkey at Apex Community Park! The race course takes you through the park and around a scenic lake. apexnc.org/538/Turkey-Trot-5K-Run

NC CHINESE LANTERN FESTIVAL

See more than 20 larger-than-life lanterns, including the spectacular dragon on Symphony Lake at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. boothamphitheatre.com/events-tickets/ events/chinese-lantern-festival/

RALEIGH CHRISTMAS PARADE

Floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus meander through downtown Raleigh. grma.org/christmas-parade

DECEMBER

MORRISVILLE TREE LIGHTING

Kick off the holiday season at Morrisville’s Indian Creek Trailhead (101 Town Hall Drive). It’s an evening of musical entertainment, crafts for the children, trackless train rides, a visit from Santa, and refreshments.

townofmorrisville.org/government/ departments-services/parks-recreationcultural-resources/special-events

CHRISTMAS ON SALEM

Apex’s annual three-day launch of the holiday season means carols at the Depot, the lighting of the Christmas tree, carriage rides, and Santa and Mrs. Claus.

apexdowntown.com

HEART OF THE HOLIDAYS

Cary ushers in the season with the annual tree lighting, Santa’s workshop, the Ole Time Winter Festival, and other family activities. townofcary.org/recreation-enjoyment/ events/holiday-events/heart-of-theholidays-celebration

HAPPY HOLLY DAYS PARADE

Floats, bands, dancers, decorated vehicles, marching groups, and all sorts of entertaining entries travel Main Street through downtown.

hollyspringsnc.us/270/happy-holly-days-parade

CARY KWANZAA CELEBRATION

Kwanzaa is a communal cultural celebration that honors African American people and their heritage. It focuses on family, friends, and the fruits of the earth.

townofcary.org/kwanzaa

FIRST NIGHT RALEIGH

Ring in the new year in downtown Raleigh with art, live music, and the famous acorn drop! firstnightraleigh.com

The N.C. Chinese Lantern Festival at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre is a holiday tradition.

homes bost

Signature luxury is achieved with careful procurement, an art that has earned us recognizable distinction. We believe your desired home is deeply personal and your experience in achieving it should be too.

Bond Park is one of the largest municipal parks in Wake County. Its 310 acres include a lake, a community center, a ropes course, athletic fields, a playground, and miles of trails.

The Page-Walker Arts & History Center offers a glimpse of Cary’s past, but don’t miss the serene gardens.

CARY IS A THRIVING COMMUNITY that is home to renowned restaurants, plentiful shopping, booming business, quality entertainment, acres of parkland, miles of greenways, and an unforgettable cultural experience.

Money Magazine named Cary the hottest town in the East and one of six Hottest Towns in America. The town was also recognized by Money Magazine as one of the Best Small Cities in America, ranking fifth on one of the magazine’s annual lists of Best Places to Live. Cary has also been recognized as one of the Most Livable Mid-Sized Cities in America, and one of the Best Places to Retire and to Raise a Family in the United States.

More than two-thirds of adult residents hold a college degree, and nearly all Cary citizens have access to the internet. Hundreds of businesses have responded by establishing headquarters, offices, and major facilities in the town including SAS Institute Inc.; ABB Inc.; Lord Corporation; MetLife; Oxford University Press, and Epic Games.

Cary has more than 30 public parks, more than 80 miles of trails, cultural arts classes, and programs, as well as free concerts and other special events. Cary’s annual Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival is a juried art show and highly anticipated community event that draws visitors and artists from all over the country.

CARY PLACES PRIORITY ON Quality of Life ATTRACTIONS

Booth

is a state-of-the-art performance center nestled in a picturesque outdoor setting.

USA Baseball National Training Complex brings top young players to Cary for the NCAA Championships and other tournaments. The Cary Tennis Park is one of the largest tennis facilities in the South.

WakeMed Soccer Park hosts professional soccer teams the North Carolina Football Club, and the Carolina Courage.

Construction is underway on the next phase of the Downtown Cary Park! This one-ofa-kind oasis in the heart of downtown will welcome visitors in 2023.

Bond Lake

Lazy Daze Arts and Crafts Festival

Page-Walker House

The Koka

Amphitheatre

Future Downtown Cary Park

DISCOVER WHY APEX IS KNOWN AS

“The Peak of Good Living”

ONE OF THE FASTEST-GROWING suburbs in the US, Apex has nearly doubled the number of people who call it home since 2010.

Residents love the small-town charm and bigcity amenities. A recent citizen survey revealed that 96% of residents rated Apex a great place to live, and it’s getting better all the time. Every year brings new shops, restaurants, breweries, and more! Many of these are located in Apex’s picturesque downtown, where multiple structures are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Annual street festivals also bring visitors downtown. PeakFest is the signature event, drawing artisans from all over the state with their unique wares. The Latino Arts Festival is a celebration of the senses with music, dancing, art- and jewelrymaking, and homemade Latin American foods. Dozens of barbecue teams from across the country roll into Apex for the Peak City Pig Fest, with the winning team walking away with thousands of dollars in prize money. New events like EarthFest, Pride Festival, and Juneteenth Freedom Fest join old favorites like the Olde Fashioned Fourth of July and Christmas on Salem.

ATTRACTIONS

The Halle Cultural Arts Center, dating to 1912, is a modern center for exhibitions, musicals, and plays.

Trackside Skate Plaza combines street-skating features with competition skateboarding elements.

The American Tobacco Trail spans more than 22 miles from Apex to Durham. The Town of Apex has more miles of the popular greenway in its town limits than any other Wake County community.

The Elevate Fitness course, at Apex Community Park, was inspired by obstacle courses seen on American Ninja Warrior and other television programs.

The Apex Nature Park outdoor amphitheater hosts a series of concerts during the summer. Don’t miss the park’s disc golf course, where you can see nighttime glow tournaments.

Kidstown Playground at Kelly Road

Park is one of few remaining wooden playgrounds in the area.

Stay tuned for the opening of Pleasant Park , currently under construction. From athletic fields and sport courts, to inclusive play areas and Apex’s first-ever splash pad, Pleasant Park will provide residents of all ages, abilities, and interests the opportunity to “Stay and Play” in town.

Elevate Fitness

Town of Apex

Greenway

Davis Drive Park

LIVE CONNECTED, LIVE WELL in Morrisville

MORRISVILLE IS ONE OF THE fastest-growing and most diverse towns in North Carolina, located adjacent to Research Triangle Park. The town’s economy is based on highly skilled professional and technology industries, and a population that is diverse, affluent, and highly educated. Residents have come to Morrisville from all over the globe, and the town celebrates a diverse population. The idea of living connected and living well guides the town’s development, growth, and quality of life in all areas, from greenways and roadways to recreational facilities and programs.

Morrisville was named one of 10 All-America City award winners for 2021, recognizing the town’s work in inclusive civic engagement to build equity and resilience, and to create stronger connections among residents, businesses, nonprofits, and government leaders.

Neighbors can also get to know each other at the town’s annual community events. In May, SpringFest turns Town Hall Drive into a carnival, with games, rides, food trucks, and entertainment. Throughout the summer, residents relax with a picnic and enjoy the free Music in the Park concert series. Morrisville’s July 3 fireworks event has music, entertainment, food trucks, and a fireworks display. For Halloween, children dress up and collect candy at the Trick-or-Treat event along the Hatcher Creek Greenway trail.

ATTRACTIONS

The Healthy Food Hub is a great place to visit in the Western Wake Farmers Market.

The renovated Morrisville Aquatics and Fitness Center offers a six-lane lap pool, a recreation pool, and zerodepth entry wade pool all covered by the glass natatorium.

Church Street Park has tennis courts, a walking trail, and a multipurpose field with a regulation cricket pitch.

At Cedar Fork District Park and Morrisville Community Park , kids and parents turn out for soccer, baseball, and softball leagues.

Morrisville Aquatic Center

Church Street Park

Western Wake Farmers Market

Park West Village

Morrisville Community Library

GROWTH AND THE GOOD LIFE in Holly Springs

WITH THE ENTIRE REGION experiencing rapid growth, Holly Springs is no exception.

This once-quiet town has seen a transformation of its downtown, welcoming restaurants, retail shopping, and vibrant community activity to the Holly Springs Village District.

UNC Health Rex Holly Springs Hospital opened in 2021, bringing top-quality care closer to the residents of Southern Wake County. With more than 50 patient beds, the hospital specializes in OB-GYN, orthopedic, and emergency services.

Now known as a hub for biomanufacturing and life sciences companies, Holly Springs is home to Seqirus, the world’s largest flu vaccine manufacturing facility, and soon-to-be home to life science companies Amgen and Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, both of which recently announced new facilities to be built in Holly Springs.

The town’s largest annual celebration is HollyFest in October. Enjoy food, music, crafts, games, and more in scenic Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park. Other annual events held at Sugg Farm include Spring Fling, Beericana Craft Beer and Music Festival, and the July 5th Celebration.

ATTRACTIONS

League, a summer league for college baseball players. Other facilities at Ting Park include tennis courts and lighted soccer fields.

The Holly Springs Cultural Center , with its 184-seat theater, provides an intimate setting for plays, concerts, and other performances. On a half

dozen Friday evenings in summer, enjoy free, family-friendly concerts on the Cultural Center lawn.

Ting Stadium is home to the Holly Springs Salamanders. The baseball team belongs to the Coastal Plain

Ting Stadium

Holly Springs Cultural Center

Dog Park at Sugg Farm

Bass Lake Park

A DASH MORE IN in Fuquay-Varina

ORIGINALLY, VISITORS FROM near and far traveled to the quaint town that is today called Fuquay-Varina seeking the healing powers of the Fuquay Mineral Spring. Today, Fuquay-Varina is one of the fastest-growing communities in North Carolina. With two beautiful downtown districts, an abundance of charm, a rich history, and plenty to see and do, Fuquay-Varina delivers for those seeking the good life. The town offers a thriving art scene, award-winning breweries, authentic festivals, a wide variety of housing, and exceptional dining and shopping.

Fuquay-Varina is consistently ranked among the safest towns in North Carolina and has received numerous accolades from regional and national sources including Best Suburb in the Country to Move To and Best Cities and Towns for First-Time Homebuyers.

ATTRACTIONS

The Fuquay-Varina Arts Center offers movies, visual and performing arts in the 294-seat theater. The Center also offers a wide variety of classes and a gallery with regular showings. The space is available for rent.

The Town has 20 parks with more than 500 acres. Take a walk at

Hilltop Needmore Park with more than 5 miles of trails!

History buffs will enjoy the FuquayVarina Museum and the adjoining Ashworth Park, which houses treasures from the town’s past as well as the first post office, school house, and a caboose.

The Fuquay Mineral Spring , from which the town gets the first part of its name, offers a picturesque setting for a picnic. It’s also a favorite spot for bridal and prom photos!

Splash Pad

Downtown Fuquay-Varina

Fuquay-Varina Arts Center

Hilltop Needmore Park

a dash more

Located 15 minutes south of Raleigh, Fuquay-Varina is one of the fastest growing towns in North Carolina. With two beautiful downtown districts, an abundance of charm, a rich history, and a superb quality of life. Fuquay-Varina offers a dash more of the good life! Great schools, a wide variety of housing options, 20 parks, a thriving social scene and much more.

/TownofFuquayVarina fuquay-varina.org @TownofFV

reasons

SEASON 2022-2023

JEROME ROBBINS’ THE CONCERT

SEPTEMBER 22-25, 2022

Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

DRACULA

OCTOBER 13-30, 2022

Fletcher Opera Theater

BEETHOVEN: SYMPHONY NO. 9

NOVEMBER 17-20, 2022

Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

THE NUTCRACKER

DECEMBER 10-24, 2022

DPAC/Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

GRIEG: PIANO CONCERTO

FEBRUARY 2-19, 2023

Fletcher Opera Theater

MOZART: SYMPHONY NO. 40

MARCH 9-26, 2023

Fletcher Opera Theater

ORPHEUS & EURYDICE

APRIL 27-30, 2023

Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

SLEEPING BEAUTY

MAY 18-21, 2023

Raleigh Memorial Auditorium

Presented by

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

REMEMBER WHEN we all made big travel plans at the beginning of 2020, only to cancel them a few months later? After a vaccine was created, a glimmer of hope had many of us packing our bags and renewing our passports, only to be met with widespread variations of the virus that put our nerves on edge and our plans on hold (again). Scheduling vacations hasn’t been easy, but the rise of staycations — a vacation spent at home or nearby — has been a lifesaver for those who are unable or unwilling to travel far.

Whether you enjoy living in the lap of luxury with a hot, buttered croissant or exploring the great outdoors, here are some local spots for a much-needed getaway — minus the gas money and expensive plane ticket.

For the Lover of Luxury Heights House, a boutique hotel in the historic Boylan Heights neighborhood in downtown Raleigh, is described on their website as “a historic landmark, resurrected.” Originally called Montfort Hall, the Italianate-style mansion was commissioned in 1858 by William Montfort Boylan under the guidance of British architect William Percival. Completed in 1860, the house has seen its fair share of change over the years — even housing a Baptist congregation in the 1950s — until 2018, when Sarah and Jeff Shepherd acquired the property and transformed it into what we see today.

“Maurer Architecture helped us to preserve this incredible home, and we collaborated on the interior design with Bryan Costello, a brilliant designer who really helped us bring our vintage-meets-modern vision to life,” said Sarah Shepherd. “From the architecture and design to food and interior

Heights House Hotel, an Italianate-style mansion in Raleigh, offers boutique accommodations for those who enjoy the finer things but aren’t willing to travel far.

“From the moment they arrive on the property, we hope that guests are transported to another time and place,” says owner Sarah Shepherd.

furnishings, we’ve made it a mission to seek out the exceptional local creatives who are right here in North Carolina.”

Heights House is meant to be enjoyed as if it is your own home, Shepherd says. Surrounded by elegant rooms, fabrics, and finishes, guests are free to mill around the gracious floor plan and enjoy complimentary bikes for perusing the neighborhood.

“We offer breakfast every morning, and our coffee program is available all day, so the dining room is a lovely place to sip a cup and read or work or talk with friends. The library is a cherished spot for enjoying coffee or wine and cheese in the afternoons, and the drawing room or living room is a grander room and located next to the parlor, or bar area, which lends well to hosting larger groups of friends. We also have two front porches where guests spend time throughout the day, as well as at the fire pit on our front lawn.”

For those who enjoy the finer things, but aren’t willing to travel far, Heights House is a great option. Rates start at $299 and include a delicious, locally sourced breakfast.

“Because this is such a transporting setting, you will really feel like you’ve traveled, even if it’s only 5 minutes from your home,” said Shepherd. “Reserve a horse-drawn carriage to travel to your dinner reservation after having cocktail hour in the parlor, or ride bikes downtown to take full advantage of your staycation!”

heightshousenc.com

For The Outdoor Enthusiast

Located just 20 minutes from downtown Raleigh, Lakeside Retreats is everything nature lovers never knew they needed and never knew was there. The brainchild of Tom Williamson and his son, Stephen Williamson, this ultimate glamping location sits on about 350 acres of family land — historically part of a much larger farm owned by the Williamson family since 1775.

Following his retirement, Tom Wil-

liamson started slowly transforming the property — which used to be nothing but a swamp — into Lakeside Retreats, complete with a picturesque lake, walking/biking trails, yurts, a tiny house, primitive camping sites, a gazebo, a sauna, and more. The land sits right next to the 405-acre Bailey and Sarah Williamson Preserve, originally a piece of the family farm, now owned by the Triangle Land Conservancy.

There are currently seven different-sized yurts, each with heating and air condition-

ing, a mini kitchenette, a fire pit, a picnic table, a charcoal grill, and sleeping arrangements for at least two people. Sheets and towels are included with each rental. The largest yurt is 30 feet, perfect for large meetings or parties. Although there is no inside plumbing, everyone who stays in a yurt has access to showers and toilets via what Stephen Williamson, who works in the concert industry, calls a “VIP-style bathroom trailer.” For tent campers, bathroom access is limited to portable toilets. Although the tiny house

Completed in 1860 in Raleigh’s historic Boylan Heights, Heights House Hotel is a local landmark that was renovated in 2018 to bring a “vintage-meets-modern vision to life.”

does have a real bathroom and a full kitchen, it is actually smaller than a yurt at only 200 square feet.

“We were starting to get more and more families, so we started to give families more options,” said Tom Williamson. “With the exception of the 24-foot yurt, which has a king-sized bed, all the other 20-foot yurts have queen-sized beds, and some of them have bunk beds. If the kids want to camp in a tent, they can just pop up a tent right next to the yurt at no extra cost.”

Yurts book for $125/night, and 10% of all profits support local and international causes. It’s clear that the Williamsons have a big heart — they support everything from animal therapy to the fight against bullying to dismantling structural racism and mass incarceration across North Carolina. A list of all the nonprofits supported in 2020-2021 can be found on their website.

Visitors are encouraged to explore the walking trails, go swimming or fishing, canoe and kayak, hike or bike on the

neighboring preserve, read a book in the lakeside gazebo, or relax in the sauna. You can bring your own boat or use one of the ones provided.

“Just enjoy it and feel closer to whoever you came with,” suggests Stephen Williamson. “That’s why we use the word retreat in it — it’s a chance to pull out a little bit from your regular routine.” lakeside-retreats.com

For the DIY-ers — A Private Oasis at Home Peacock Mansion is a lovingly restored vintage camper, graced with luxury linens, crystal sconces, a mini fridge, heated blankets, wild colors, a flower wall, and (of course) plenty of peacock decor.

“Everything that I couldn’t do in my house, I did in the camper,” said owner Jennifer Waller Waller. “The decorations were labor intensive, but nothing was expensive. It’s like the magical mystery bus.”

The 1972 Shasta Compact, graced

with wings, was originally rented out on Airbnb as part of a glamping experience in Waller’s backyard, complete with an outdoor clawfoot tub and other whimsical additions. Waller’s self-described “boho eclectic glam” did the trick — before she knew it, photographers were paying to use her space for photoshoots.

Once the pandemic hit, everything changed.

“When the shutdown happened, it wasn’t really worth the money for me. We didn’t really know what was happening back then, so I didn’t want to take any chances of someone coming here and getting sick,” said Waller. “My little camper sat there and nobody used her. Nobody appreciated her. So my husband and I decided to sell it — and we decided to make it as eccentric as humanly possibly because I knew it would sell.”

Waller and her husband were in that camper every weekend throughout quarantine, watching hours of YouTube videos on how to paint, decoupage, sew, build a flower

A lakeside yurt? Yes, please! Guests are encouraged to BYOB (bring-your-own-boat) or use the ones provided.

wall, cut tile, and more. By the end of a long summer, the Peacock Mansion was born. It now sits in Waller’s driveway to be enjoyed by friends and family.

“We thought, why are we going to sell this? This is really amazing! So we moved it from the back of our property to the driveway and said let’s just start staying here,” said Waller. “It was really convenient because we didn’t have to find a place for the dogs. We didn’t have to worry about somebody getting the mail. It got to be a lot of fun because I would dress up and make little menus about what we were going to serve in the camper.”

Shortly after the Peacock Mansion’s debut, friends started asking Waller to bring the party to their driveways, cham -

pagne in tow. It was perfect — Waller didn’t have to drive home after a night of drinking and she could fall asleep in her own camper. It soon became a tourist destination for everyone, says Waller, with her friends opting to sit in her camper rather than her house.

While socializing with the Shasta is certainly a perk, the Peacock Mansion also provides some much-needed solitude. Each morning Waller grabs her morning tea, walks the dogs, and sits in her camper for 20 minutes or two hours, depending on what she’s working on.

“I can just sit in there and be undisturbed, which is something we don’t really do anymore. It’s very cathartic,” she said. Although it was a lot of work, Waller

encourages others to think outside of the box and create a private oasis of their own. Travel is about a feeling, and you can recreate that feeling anywhere, she says. If you love Paris, bring Paris to your space. If you like the beach, create a tropicalthemed room, shed, camper, basement, you name it.

“Think about your favorite place and why it is your favorite place, and recreate it. The ambiance has a lot to do with your feelings,” said Waller. “One day you can look around and think, wow, I really love being at home.”

“Your space should bring you joy, no matter what it looks like. We travel to try and escape our daily life, but if you can do that right here, it’s just an added bonus.” t

Jennifer Devlin Waller often escapes to her restored vintage trailer, which is parked in her driveway. She turned the 1972 Shasta Compact into the colorfully whimsical Peacock Mansion.

PICTURE THIS — a peaceful night, sleeping under the stars, surrounded by natural wonders and the comfort of your own bed, waking up to birdsong, hiking adventures ,and welcome solitude. Sound appealing?

More than 11 million people in the US agree with you, and that number is climbing quickly.

Eleven million American households own recreational vehicles, however less than two years ago that number was only 8 million.

Interest in RV travel and ownership has surged, in large part due to the coronavirus pandemic health and safety concerns.

Dave Hofert, owner of D & H RV & Marine dealership in Apex, has felt that growth in his professional and personal life.

“The RV industry added 3 million units to the registry in 18 months,” Hofert said. “The whole economy has changed. I don’t go to my office anymore. I can work from anywhere. I might as well work from the beach.

“RV travel is safe travel. I don’t have to worry about (businesses) being closed. I don’t have to wear a mask in my RV,” he said.

22% of owners are between ages 18 and 34

20 Mediandaysannual usage for RV owners

11.2 million Households own an RV

72 million Americans plan on taking an RV trip in 2022. Up from 61 million the previous year.

Source: Rvia.org

RV destinations are largely outdoors, away from crowded urban areas. Another upside: pets are welcome.

“An RV is pet-friendly travel, and that’s a huge thing for people.” No more overnight boarding and Fido missing all the fun.

“It’s true travel independence in your own home,” Hofert said.

Hofert and his wife bought their first camper to live in while building a house in Wake County. When the house was finished, they tried renting out the camper.

“It rented every weekend, and we decided we were on to something,” Hofert said.

Now, Hofert’s dealership on highway 64 sells new and pre-owned RVs in a variety of classes, recently added an inventory of boats, and was named a nuCamp Top 5 Dealer in 2020 and 2021. (nuCamp is a popular brand of teardrop and truck campers.)

Surging RV ownership has ushered in challenges as well. Many manufacturers are struggling to meet demand, and service departments are often backed up, waiting on parts. Popular campsites often book up months in advance.

“The irony is that we were at Disney World (staying at Disney’s RV campground, Fort Wilderness). We usually go the week after Thanksgiving and it’s empty because people are at work or at school. It was slammed,” Hofert said.

Fuquay-Varina resident Nancy Kimsey is well underway with planning a cross-country RV trip for September.

“I’ve already got this very complicated spreadsheet about how I have to reserve six months out in order to get into this campground in Zion National Park, because the sites are available on a rolling basis,” Kimsey said.

“If it’s something really specific, that’s a very popular destination, you have to find out when they open the booking window and be ready to jump on it.”

Kimsey’s spreadsheet also includes Bryce Canyon National Park and Arches National Park — highly sought after bucketlist destinations.

A life-long tent and family camper, Kimsey and her husband never RV camped until — you guessed it — the pandemic hit in 2020.

“We wanted to get out and have an opportunity to go camping where we could have a little kitchen,” she said. “I’m in retirement age, so I’m not going to sleep on the ground anymore. During the pandemic, we didn’t

RVS CAN VARY IN SIZE, SHAPE AND FEATURES, PRICED FROM $30,000 TO MORE THAN $100,000, BUT GENERALLY INCLUDE SLEEPING SPACE, A KITCHEN AREA AND A BATHROOM.

really want to stay in hotels, so we started looking at it more seriously.”

When Kimsey and her husband discovered a brand of RVs that fit their needs, they drove to Tennessee to see them in person.

“We immediately decided that’s what we wanted, but had to wait four months for it to be built,” she said. “Now people are waiting 10 months.”

Variations in RV size, shape, price point, and features are plentiful.

Luxury models can sell for more than $100,000 with leather recliners, induction cooktops, solid wood cabinets, and even bunk beds.

For Kimsey, solar panels and petite dimensions were must-have specs.

“Because it’s a little smaller, you can get into some of the national parks campgrounds. There are a lot of campgrounds that have only a few sites for really large RVs. We like that flexibility.”

Solar panels allow for boondocking, or camping without connection to water, sewer, or electricity, which expands campsite options to include remote destinations off the grid.

“We are really enjoying the flexibility of it. Just being able to go hiking and birdwatching early in the morning. You are already at your destination,” Kimsey said.

“RVing does give the freedom to make last-minute travel decisions with whatever you are interested in doing. Whether it’s fishing at the beach or staying in your grown kids’ driveway and having your own coffee pot, those are all pieces to the puzzle,” Hofert said. t

53% of travelers bring their pets with them.

NANCY KIMSEY, AUTHOR OF DEVOTIONAL BOOKS GRACE ON A RAMBLING ROAD AND JOY BY A ROARING CAMPFIRE, BEGAN RV CAMPING WITH HER HUSBAND IN EARLY 2020.

Kinston is known FOR HISTORIC BATTLES including this morning’s

FOOD HAS A WAY OF BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER. That’s why thousands of visitors follow the rumblings in their stomach to Kinston each year. Here, food isn’t just prepared and served, it’s crafted. Your farm to table meal happens at the place that invented farm to table meals. Your plate of barbecue isn’t just good, it’s best-in-the-nation good. And, that last homemade biscuit on the breakfast table, won’t be there for long. So, put your bathroom scales away, and head over to Kinston. One of the culinary capitals of the South awaits.

WRITTEN BY AMBER KEISTER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

ON A

CRISP WINTER

MORNING, 5-year-old Samaira Desai whizzed down the zipline, gripping white-knuckled the entire way. Nearby, several other children crawled through tunnels, inched along ropes, and navigated obstacles like the Spider Web and the Lily Pads. Enrolled in a Town of Cary track-out camp, the kids spent a fun-filled hour exploring the recently refurbished Challenge Course at Bond Park.

All the activity is just what Cary parks and recreation staff were aiming for when renovations to the park’s ropes course began last summer. During the planning stage, staff looked hard at requests that they couldn’t accommodate on the old course. Families and children under 10 were two obvious underserved populations.

“We’re trying to look at ways we can serve everybody,” said Andrew Marsden, recreation manager at Bond Park.

In the new design, a lower level was added, about 8 feet off the ground, along with eight new elements and a 90-foot youth zipline. Staff can now hold more family programs and activities for children as young as 5. Along with track-out camps, those include summer camps and Scout outings.

“We also made sure that the lower level could be used by adults as well. So if you come out and you want to do a group, but you don’t necessarily want to go up to 35 feet, you can still play around and have fun in an area that you’re comfortable with,” Marsden said.

The Bond Park Challenge Course, first built more than 25 years ago, is described as “an outdoor learning facility designed to stimulate teamwork, encourage cooperation, instill trust, and bolster confidence.” The original course was attached to the park’s trees, so participants could traverse Tarzanlike from tree platform to tree platform. But all that activity started to impact the health of the supporting trees.

The new Challenge Course was built around the existing trees in Bond Park to preserve the natural canopy.

“We were having to do some major modifications or repairs to that course, because of the trees. So instead of doing that, we transitioned to a pole course, which is just better for the trees and has a better life,” said Marsden, who was the project manager for the renovations.

Located in the same spot, the new course was planned around the existing trees, to preserve the natural canopy. Bonsai Design LLC, based in Colorado, first created a rough outline of the design. Then every tree in the area was tagged with a GPS location.

“Then they shifted the design around,

shifted where the anchors had to go, so that it would impact trees in the minimum amount possible,” Marsden said. “We did lose three trees in this entire process, but two of them were already dead.”

The $375,000 renovation was completed in November. The new course is longer, more connected, and finishes with a 300foot zipline.

“We’ve gone for a slightly longer plan that takes you all the way to the end. It’s a bit of a quicker ride, a bit more exciting changeup for people who have already been here,” Marsden said.

Seven-year-old Paul Arrange crawls through a tunnel at the Bond Park Challenge Course during a Town of Cary track-out camp.

Emily Boykin, the outdoor recreation program supervisor at Bond Park, makes sure straps are safely locked into place.

“The course is also more independent, so you can kind of go out by yourself, fully clipped in. There’s no way to get out, but you can then explore and kind of be free.”

That freedom comes thanks to updated safety equipment. But before anyone ascends, they must learn the rules of the course and how the safety gear works.

“There is a small ground-based course that we go through to demonstrate how everything works,” Marsden said. “We can watch you, and it gives you a chance to ask questions that you’re not sure about before you end up in the sky.”

Plans are in the works for birthday party packages, and staff is considering walk-up days, where individuals can sign up without enlisting a big group to come too.

Look for the return of Bond Park Adventure Days. On the third Saturday of every month, visitors can buy a $29 pass that includes a day of family fun at the Bond Park Challenge Course and Boathouse. t

Know the Ropes

• Open by reservation only, for groups of eight or more.

• High course is 35 feet above the ground and is geared more to individual challenges.

• New lower level is 8 feet up and appropriate for younger climbers and families.

• Low course is on or near the ground and focuses on team-building

• Fees vary, depending on type of program and resident status. Expect to pay $27-$75 per person for general visitors or $41-$85 each for corporate participants.

• Hours: open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closed on holidays.

• Learn more at myCary.org

Source: Town of Cary

Far left; A spider web-shaped rope course challenges the dexterity and balance of a youngster. Left; Emily Boykin demonstrates how to navigate the Firecrackers.

SWEET ON PICKLEBALL

Western Wake towns adapt to fast-growing sport

WRITTEN BY MARTY SIMPKINS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

social aspect of doubles play has helped the sport reach new heights recently, even in the middle of a pandemic.

Local Ambassadors

The local popularity of this contagious sport owes much to Mike Walsh of Cary, who started playing pickleball with his wife Lyn in 2010.

Walsh was officially named a USA Pickleball Association ambassador for Cary in 2011, and his friend Luis Vasquez was appointed as an ambassador later on. The two men promoted the sport at various parks and community centers in Cary and eventually started the town’s first tournament at Bond Park.

“It took considerable effort to launch pickleball in Cary and neighboring communities,” Walsh said.

PICKLEBALL IS ONE OF THE FASTEST-GROWING SPORTS in America, according to USA Pickleball. That growth has definitely hit the town of Cary, which has 21 pickleball courts at six locations with more on the way.

In Apex, the rate of which the sport is growing is nine new players per day, according to Craig Setzer of Apex’s parks and recreation department. That growth forced Apex to add 16 pickleball courts within the past three years.

In Morrisville, Travis St. Brice, a fitness specialist for the town’s parks and recreation department, says pickleball has a lower barrier of play, which helps people pick it up easily. At the Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center there are free clinics on the sport and reserved time to play.

Pickleball started out as a game mostly geared toward senior citizens, but now the popularity of the sport has grown to reach people of all ages. The combination of the easy-to-play style of the game along with the

“It took considerable effort to launch pickleball in Cary and neighboring communities,” Walsh said.

The biggest obstacle was that no one had ever heard of the sport.

“Our primary teaching emphasis was in Cary, but we also worked with Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Raleigh, Durham, Hope Mills, and Pinehurst,” Walsh said. “Once people experienced the game, they were hooked and spread the word.”

“Anybody can pick it up and start playing. It’s dependent on your hand-eye coordination. The more you work at it, the better you get, just like any other sport or game you play.”

— Marga Beasley, USAPA ambassador

Kevin Gordon congratulates Dana Rice after he and Ryan Semchenko, far right, played Rice and her husband, Matt, at Cary Tennis Park.

Pandemic Boost

Today, thousands of people in Western Wake play the sport. The Triangle Pickleball Enthusiasts Meetup group has over 700 members from Cary, Holly Springs, Apex, Morrisville, and Raleigh. The Pickleball Carolina Facebook page has more than 1,500 followers.

Marga Beasley, a USAPA ambassador since 2013, grew up playing tennis. However, after she got to a certain age, the Cary resident found that her body could not keep up with the harsh demands of the sport. When she heard about pickleball, and how it’s similar to tennis, but more easygoing, she took the introductory class in Cary. She was immediately hooked.

“Anybody can pick it up and start playing,” Beasley said. “It’s dependent on your hand-eye coordination. The more you work at it, the better you get, just like any other sport or game you play. It’s good for all ages and for people who have had injuries or joint problems in the past.”

After community centers, businesses, and gymnasiums started opening after the COVID-19 pandemic, pickleball was one of the first sports to hit the ground running.

Players felt comfortable, Beasley said, because the rules already include social distancing and staying apart from other players on the court.

“It’s a safe thing to do outdoors with others,” she said. “It’s not a contact sport. You can socially distance from your opponent the whole time. It’s perceived by many as a safe activity to do.”

Pickleball has elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. Two or four players use solid paddles made of wood or composite materials to hit a perforated polymer ball over a net.

The ball is served with an underarm stroke, so that contact with the ball is made below waist level in an upward arc. The server hits from behind the baseline on one side of the center line and aims diagonally to the opponent's service court.

Only the serving side may score a point. Play ends for a point when one side commits a fault, when the ball goes out of bounds, a player steps into the nonvolley zone, or when a player touches the net with their body or paddle.

The first side scoring 11 points, leading by at least two points, wins the game. If the two sides are tied at 10 points apiece, the side that goes ahead by two points wins the game.

JD Cunningham, of Apex, serves during a pickleball game.

Bond Park, 801 High House Road, Cary

Herbert Young Community Center, 101 Wilkinson Ave., Cary

Carpenter Park, 4420 Louis Stephens Drive, Cary

Cary Tennis Park, 2727 Louis Stephens Drive, Cary

White Oak Park 1216 Jenks Carpenter Road, Cary

Middle Creek School Park, 151 Middle Creek Park Ave., Apex

Apex Nature Park, 2600 Evans Road, Apex

Kelly Road Park, 1609 Kelly Road, Apex

Morrisville Community Park, 1520 Morrisville Parkway, Morrisville

For more information about playing pickleball, visit:

• Triangle Pickleball Enthusiasts: meetup.com/Triangle-Pickleball-Enthusiasts/

• Town of Cary: townofcary.org/recreation-enjoyment/ sports/adult-sports/adult-pickleball

• Morrisville Aquatics & Fitness Center: townofmorrisville.org, search MAFC Racket Sports

More Courts

Patrick Duffy has worked as a program specialist for the Town of Cary’s parks and recreation department for three years. No other program has grown faster than pickleball, he says.

“It appeals to the older crowd who are getting out of tennis for health reasons, but they still want that social element of playing sports together,” Duffy said.

“Pickleball exploded for the younger generations during the pandemic. …It gave people a chance to get out of the house and get some fresh air. We just can’t keep up with the growth.”

Paul Kuhn, the Cary parks and recreation department’s facilities design and construction manager, says several projects are in the works to serve local pickleballers.

Lights will be added to the three outdoor courts at Carpenter Park, allowing participants to keep playing at night. There are also two courts under construction at Walnut Street Park, and lights will be added there as well. Six pickleball courts are also planned for the new 20-acre park at McCrimmon Parkway and Green Level Church Road in west Cary.

Cary Tennis Park has four lighted pickleball courts.

Pleasant Park in Apex currently has three pickleball courts, but Setzer says three more should be added soon. The town also recently added an indoor court at the John M. Brown Community Center.

“The demand on our parks and tennis courts increased greatly during the pandemic as residents looked for alternatives to traditional gyms and programs,” he said. “The last year has required us to balance the need and demand of providing additional opportunities in many of the town’s programming areas, including pickleball. Within the last year we’ve set designated times for our outdoor multipurpose courts

to accommodate pickleball.”

The growth in Apex hasn’t fazed the parks and recreation department. Setzer welcomes the challenge of having more people engaged in the popular sport.

“Having residents interested in using our facilities, coming together to share a common recreation pursuit that is a benefit to their health is a great thing in our community,” he said.

In Morrisville, St. Brice expects more residents to pick up pickleball.

“I think it will continue to grow in popularity,” St. Brice said. “I hope pickleball courts will be built somewhere around town.

Craig Heinly, of Chapel Hill, chases down a well-placed ball during a game at Cary Tennis Park.

In the meantime, I will continue to build our community play here and begin to organize league play for our players.” t

A bucket of polymer balls await pickleball players.

White Oak Creek Greenway Tunnel

White Oak Creek Greenway segment between Macarthur Drive and Davis Drive, Cary

In 2020, artist Lisa Gaither began working with the Town of Cary to design a permanent mural for the headwalls of the greenway tunnel near Davis Drive Park. Completed earlier this year, the White Oak Creek Greenway project features realistically represented flowers and wildlife on one side and silhouettes of a biker and runners on the other side.

Wall TO WALL Wall TO WALL

“Dreams of Flight”

Village at Amberly Square

Completed in 2019, the mural by Scott Nurkin features a cardinal in flight and pink magnolia blossoms. An avid birdwatcher, the artist says he had wanted to paint a giant cardinal for a long time, but no spot seemed right, until he was hired for the Amberly job. “Cardinals are so brilliant and striking that we take (them) for granted,” Nurkin said. “We are so accustomed to seeing our state bird everywhere that it’s no big deal. But to someone visiting from another country or part of the world, it must be like seeing a macaw or parakeet in the wild. Both male and female cardinals are just flat out gorgeous-looking birds.”

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Cultivate Coffee Mural

128 S. Fuquay Avenue, Fuquay-Varina

Artist: Jason Clark

Artist Jason Clark approached the owners of Cultivate Coffee Roasters with a unique mural concept — paint the national animal from all the regions where the roastery sources their coffee beans. The resulting mural mixes striking black and white linocut animal forms with colorful sweeps of spray paint.

“Allison Francis & Catherine Page”

Highway 55 & 4010

Convenience Lane, Cary

Completed in 2014 by artist Seth Storck, this painting was commissioned by Sheetz, which has a nearby location. It depicts a young Allison Francis Page, the founder of Cary, and his wife, Catherine, surrounded by native wildlife.

“Destination Becomes Home”

105 Upchurch St., Apex

“The mural highlights feelings of home with bold, eye-catching colors that are inspired by the special aspects of Apex,” reads the town’s description of Max Dowdle’s mural. “From people, to history, to flora and fauna of nature, and topography itself, Apex has a unique kind of small town allure of its very own. The mural brings home the point that wherever you put down roots becomes a part of you.”

“Cary Then and Now”

220 W. Chatham

St., Cary

Finished in June 2003 by local artist Val Fox, the mural has faded over the years, but viewers can still follow the visual history of the Town of Cary. At the time, the building housed Loyd Sorrell’s paint and hardware store. He provided space inside for Fox’s gallery and the exterior wall for her mural. Beginning on the right with the large portrait of Samuel Cary over the train station, the mural depicts the people and places that were important to the founding and growth of the town. Fox also included several portraits important to her. Among those are singer Clay Aiken, Sorrell’s daughter and wife in a horse-drawn carriage, and teacher Ruth Cathey, who was Fox’s stepmother. The artist also painted herself, riding her horse.

I Love Fuquay-Varina Mural

409 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina

Artist: Sean Kernick

Completed in partnership with The United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County, this quintessential Fuquay-Varina mural was completed in less than two weeks by artist Sean Kernick, mixing town history with community spirit.

“All Aboard!”

122 W. Chatham St., Cary Raleigh-based artist Sean Kernick tackled this project in downtown Cary, partnering with the nonprofit Cary Visual Art. Juxtaposing the old with the new and celebrating creative communities, this mural was completed in May 2019. The mural was one of three recognized by the Town of Cary’s Public Art Advisory Board earlier this year with a Creative Placemaking Award. “Bond Lake” and “Dreams of Flight” also received the award.

Hello Mural

300 S. Main Street, Holly Springs Artist: Lacey Crime

The Hello Mural by artist Lacey Crime is one of three original murals at The Block on Main in the Holly Springs Village District. “It was another way to get the community involved in the project,” said building manager Chris Harol.

Wake Zone Coffee House

1750 Olive Chapel Road, Apex

The drive-through window at the Wake Zone Coffee House becomes a bird feeder in artist Lisa Gaither’s mural, finished in August 2019. A few native N.C. birds show the way toward food and refreshment.

Fuquay-Varina Arts Center Mural

Corner of Vance Street and Fuquay Avenue

Artist: Scott Nurkin

On the side of the longanticipated Fuquay-Varina

Arts Center, which opened in 2019, artist Scott Nurkin paid homage to the town’s roots, depicting the railroad through Varina Station, Mineral Spring Park and a historic one-room schoolhouse preserved in the Fuquay-Varina Museum Complex.

Grow Preschool Flower Mural

115 Commerce St., Apex Business owner Julia Beam partnered with Chapel Hill artist Michael Brown to create the vibrant mural in August 2019. She was involved in the downtown business association and wanted to give Commerce Street “some brightness and pop.”

“I really wanted to tie it in with Grow, and so we decided to use the flowers, the bright colors,” Beam said. “He felt it was important for the children and the parents to be able to enjoy it and for the children to understand that it was the flowers, the Grow, the look, the brightness and the cheery (feeling). He felt it would be easily interpreted and also loved by the community.”

The Rise of Board Game Cafés

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW

THINGS CAN GET pretty dicey at a board game café (pun absolutely intended), but if you haven’t tried it yet, it should be a RISK you’re willing to take (sorry, not sorry). If you think these exist solely for serious gamers, you’d be wrong — shelves are stacked with everything from Jenga and Monopoly to games you’ve never heard of and probably can’t even pronounce. In other words, board game cafés welcome newbies and hardcore gamers alike, so if you’re expecting something gate-keepy, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

When was the last time you put your phone down and played a game with your family with zero distractions? If you can’t remember, you’re missing out. Board games have risen rapidly in popularity, and sales of hobby games have increased every single year for the past decade. Capitalizing on this trend, board game cafés offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for those who want to learn how to play games, get lost in role play during a night of Dungeons and Dragons, or simply destroy a loved one over Scrabble and coffee. Don’t worry, you don’t have to head into the city to experience this novelty. What you’re looking for is closer than you think.

With a library of board games to choose from, Gamer’s Geekery & Tavern in Cary has something for all ages.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Gamer’s Geekery & Tavern

Tucked away on the second floor of the MacGregor Village shopping center in Cary, Gamer’s Geekery has been harboring an extensive collection of board games since it first opened as a retail-only location in 2013. From the beginning, owner Lance Shrader dreamed of eventually adding a restaurant and a bar. In August 2019, the dream became a reality.

“Nowadays we’re all on our phones or focused on work or things like that, and when you come in here, you feel at home,” said Allison Laidlaw, the bar manager at Gamer’s Geekery. “You grab a board game. You play with your family. You get delicious

food, a good atmosphere, and great bartenders. We like to get to know our regulars and what they order and things like that.”

Popular menu items include scratchmade chocolate chip and snickerdoodle cookies, Patchwork Pretzel Bites, and the Super Mario Sandwich. All of their dressings are made in-house. If you’re thirsty, they have local beer, cider, and mead on tap, plus nonalcoholic drinks and a wine list.

“People always come in here and expect a Hot Pocket,” said Shrader. “But we have cooks, and although it’s not a huge menu, it tries to be quality.”

For $10, customers can reserve a table for the day and play as many games as they want — and with approximately 530 board

games on the shelf, the choices are endless! Popular games include Catan, Ticket to Ride, Terraforming Mars, Werewolf, and (of course) Monopoly.

“It’s a place I thought needed to exist, and that’s why we’re in here doing it,” said Shrader. “Here, we never see families sitting on their phones.”

On Wednesdays, parents can bring their small children in for a game of Connect 4 or Guess Who? while the older kids participate in the Youth D&D Adventures League (ages 8–14). Other themed nights include MtG (Magic) Commander Nights on Mondays, adult D&D on Thursdays, and Tuesday night trivia once a month. For busier nights, especially Saturdays, feel

ABOVE: Raleigh gamer Harrison Perry looks over his cards while playing Magic: The Gathering at Gamer’s Geekery & Tavern.

RIGHT: A visitor chooses from hundreds of board games at Gamer’s Geekery & Tavern.

Gamer’s Geekery & Tavern offers a wide range of food and beverages, including flights of beer.

free to call ahead and make reservations in advance so you don’t have to worry about finding a table.

If you’re a regular, it might make sense to purchase a membership — $15 monthly or $150 yearly — and never pay a table fee! Members also receive 15% off of merchandise and $15 off renting the private room, which is often used for birthday parties, private D&D nights, bachelor parties, corporate events, you name it. If you’re a fan of video games, four TVs in the back are ready to roll, provided you bring your own electronics/consoles.

“ We attract all types of people from all walks of life,” said Laidlaw. “I just truly enjoy seeing people connect again, especially after Covid. Regulars come in all the time, and they light up when they walk in the door. It makes me so happy to see them as well. It feels like Cheers.”

carygametavern.com

Meeple’s Brew

Sandwiched between an Indian restaurant and an O2 Fitness sits Meeple’s Brew, a small-yet-inviting board game café in Morrisville that first opened its doors in January 2020. Owner Sean Kim and his husband, Justin Sargent, were inspired to open the café after visiting a similar one in Toronto, Canada.

“ We thought it was a really cool concept. It’s a coffee shop mainly, but they also had a large selection of board games, and you can purchase game passes to play instore,” said Kim.

Kim and Sargent, both avid board game fans since high school, took the idea and ran with it. The name Meeple’s Brew was inspired by the person-shaped tokens in the popular board game Carcassonne, in which “my people” got shortened to “meeple.”

“ When we first opened, 90% of our customers were board-game focused,” said

Kim. “After Covid hit, we lost most of those customers because no one could gather. That’s when we started focusing more on the coffee shop side.”

During lockdown, Kim came up with many new in-house recipes, making all of the syrups and batters from scratch. Meeple’s Brew currently offers breakfast items — the most popular being the waffles — as well as lunch items, hot and cold brews, smoothies, milkshakes, and more. They also serve beer and recently started offering cider and mead. At their newest location in Cary, they have begun experimenting with food geared more towards the evening crowd.

There are approximately 850 games between the two locations, with roughly 650 in the Morrisville location and the heavier, more involved games in Cary.

Joel Salda, the head game master and events planner, acts as a sort of game

Visitors participating in trivia night take advantage of Meeple’s Brew outdoor seating in Morrisville.

sommelier — walking people through the game selection, providing recommendations, and aiming to make learning a new game a quick and proficient experience.

“Many times people want to play a new game, but they don’t necessarily want to read all of the rules, or they may have processing issues, so I try to bring it down to a level where they can get started,” said Salda. “It’s a $5 game pass per person to play from sun up to sun down. Or they can pay $10 to rent a game from our library for seven days and then bring it back. We started doing that during the pandemic, which is another thing that kept the board game side of the business alive.”

Every week, six games are taken out of the library to play free of charge. In addition to a library day pass, customers can purchase a monthly pass for $25, giving you and one friend 30 days of access to the library. If you bring your own game, you play for free! You are only ever charged to play games from the

library. And children under 12 always play free with an adult.

“ In the library, we have games organized from easiest to hardest, so most of the things in the first third of the shelf tend to be the most popular,” said Salda. “As people continue to come in, I start moving them along the shelf.”

Weekly events include an ongoing D&D campaign on Tuesday nights, free play nights on Thursdays (where any purchase from the café gets you access to the board game library), weekend art markets, and monthly trivia nights.

“My favorite thing about owning Meeple’s Brew is getting to know the people, especially repeat customers,” said Kim. “On top of that, making specialty drinks and coming up with new recipes is really fun. Our staff is absolutely wonderful and very personable and friendly and always happy to see you walk through the door.” t meeplesbrew.com

Meeple’s Brew’s Morrisville location offers more than 500 board games to choose from.

Gamers work in teams to answer Star Wars trivia during trivia night at Meeple’s Brew.

A’Verde Cocina + Tequila Library

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

What a difference a change of scenery has made for Chef Katsuji Tanabe.

“The last few years have been like a roller coaster ride,” the Bravo television series Top Chef alumnus said in a recent interview “Moving here from Los Angeles and opening a restaurant in Raleigh was amazing, but then suddenly everything fell apart (due to the pandemic). It was heartbreaking and soul-destroying.”

When Tanabe opened High Horse eatery in downtown’s City Market in 2019, local foodies rejoiced. But COVID-19 proved to be an insurmountable obstacle for the business, which closed its doors in July 2020.

The chef encountered some dark days following the setback. He turned to alcohol and became disheartened. In a moment of clarity, though, he realized he needed to make a positive change and venture back toward a thriving kitchen.

Chef Katsuji Tanabe celebrates his new culinary venture at A'Verde.

Enjoy chips with distinctive salsas and elevated veggies like salt crispy potatoes and al pastor cauliflower.

Fortunately, Tanabe connected with owners and restaurateurs Lou, Joy and Amber Moshakos of the Raleigh-based hospitality management group LM Restaurants.

A reenergized Tanabe is encouraged by the warm welcome he’s received since A’Verde opened this spring. The 5,500-square-foot restaurant provides guests with a vibrant, inviting oasis to enjoy the chef’s distinctive take on his native Mexico City cuisine.

“When you visit, you should go with an open mind,” he said. “Be willing to try new flavors, and don’t expect it to be traditional Mexican food. We don’t serve rice and beans with every dish.”

Raised in a home with a Mexican mother and Japanese father, Tanabe’s intriguing heritage is reflected in his cuisine.

“Sometimes people may think I’m going to serve carne asada sushi rolls or tempura chimichangas, but in reality I’m not trying to put two different cuisines together,” he explained. “What I do is build layers of flavor that balance well. Japanese food is rich with umami, and Mexican food is about acid and spice. My food has touches of my cultural background.”

A well-composed menu provides an approachable selection of small plates, veggie sides, greens, tacos, and “big deal” main course dishes.

Start your meal with a bowl of warm, house-made chips served alongside white habanero, tomatillo avocado, and creamy chipotle salsas.

Feeling adventurous? Try some seasonal guacamole and add grasshoppers on top. For what it’s worth, we sampled — and liked — the exotic, crunchy protein roasted with cumin, cinnamon, paprika, rosemary, and thyme.

Whatever you do, be sure to order a skillet of the sublime Grandma’s Cornbread. The sweet-and-savory offering is derived from a cherished family recipe dating back to the 1950s.

“This is a popular menu item that we bake every 45 minutes so it’s always hot and fresh,” Tanabe said. “It’s not traditional Southern cornbread, but people have embraced it.”

Among the stellar small plates, the ceviche tostada with Ahi tuna, serrano chiles, truffle soy, sesame macha salsa, and fresh lime juice reigns supreme. There’s also the chopped salad bursting with flavorful ingredients like Manchego cheese, fresh avocado, corn, bacon, egg, pickled red onion, and two types of greens. If you want something with amped-up spiciness, try the roasted local

Octopus tacos, local NC crispy pork rinds and kale, and Dad’s Refried Beans all vie for consideration.

oysters with fresh habanero peppers and chorizo aioli.

A can’t-go-wrong variety of veggies will tempt you six ways from Sunday. Consider, for example, street-charred corn inflected with togarashi pepper; pineapple-laden al pastor cauliflower; habanero-tinged salt crispy potatoes; and Dad’s Refried Beans, which, of course, have a backstory.

“My father does not understand the concept of refrying things,” Tanabe explained with a smile. “So, he makes beans with extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and onions, which takes them to the next level.”

Speaking of next-level goodness, the entrees at A’Verde will not disappoint. The artfully presented Cohinita Pibil, for instance, involves braised pork shank in miso, achiote, sour orange, and aromatic spices served with pickled onions, black beans, and blue corn tortillas.

“For our tortilla program, I bring in

corn from Mexico,” said Tanabe. “It is the only corn that is organic, heirloom, and non-GMO, so it’s very difficult to find. We use a stone grinder and make the tortillas by hand. It’s definitely a labor of love.”

Choose from five elevated taco selections, three of which include crispy pork belly with Arbol honey sauce; truffle mushroom encompassing Cotija and gruyere cheese; and octopus suffused with Castelvetrano olives, chimichurri, and mint.

Another hugely popular main dish arrives in the form of chicken enchiladas with cotija cheese and creamy green tomatillo sauce. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself licking every molecule of sauce from the plate.

More than 20 menu items are gluten free, and several are vegan.

If you manage to save room for dessert, order the red velvet tres leches cake or a Carajillo cocktail comprising Licor 43 Spanish

The popular chicken enchiladas entree with cotija cheese and green tomatillo sauce.

Items that emerge from the kitchen possess a wow factor, like this Ube flan dessert.

liqueur, espresso, spiced vanilla cream ice, and roasted marshmallow.

Cleverly named craft cocktails, like Hot Mess and Aloe You Longtime, emerge from an attractive and expansive bar. Just a few steps away, the tequila library contains shelves filled with diverse assortments of the potent agave-centric elixir.

A’Verde’s effervescent interior showcases hand-woven baskets, veladora candles situated on the tables, large-leaf plants, and striking murals by local artist Arianne Hemlein. Inspiration for the space came from Tanabe, Amber Moshakos, and renowned restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias, a longtime friend of the Moshakos family.

The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. Weekend brunch is available from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. t

A’Verde Cocina + Tequila Library 2300 Walnut St. Centrum at Crossroads, Cary (984) 200-3469

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“When you visit, you should go with an open mind. Be willing to try new flavors, and don’t expect it to be traditional Mexican food. We don’t serve rice and beans with every dish.”

— Chef Katsuji Tanabe

LITTLE PORTUGAL

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

FRESH SCRATCH-MADE food and exceptionally friendly service awaits you at Little Portugal, a quaint, full-service Portuguese restaurant in Fuquay-Varina that has steadily gained a devoted following.

Husband-and-wife owners Helder and Rosemary Pereira, who hail from Long Island, New York, are quick to mention they are both first-generation Portuguese. The dynamic couple has lived in Fuquay for five years and has three children.

“Our parents are from Portugal, so we know the traditional food well, because we both grew up eating it,” said Rosemary, whose quick wit and infectious smile might even win you over faster than the eatery’s delightful cuisine.

The Pereiras opened Little Portugal in June 2020, just a few months into the coronavirus pandemic. It took several months for business to gain traction, but people started coming through the door and haven’t stopped since.

“The support from the community has exceeded our expectations, and we are so grateful,” Helder said. “Now we know many of our customers by name.”

“I think people just like that there’s something different they can enjoy here in town,” Rosemary chimed in.

Appetizers, including fried cod fish fritters, spicy garlic shrimp, and a chargrilled chourico (similar to Mexican chorizo) sausage are tantalizingly tempting. So are flaky puff pastries filled with seasoned ground beef and shredded chicken.

Main dishes, such as sauteed pork cutlets, roasted cod with

FUQUAY’S LITTLE PORTUGAL DISHES UP FRESH AND CLASSIC PORTUGUESE FOOD AND IMPORTED PRODUCTS.

EGG CUSTARD TARTS ARE BESTSELLERS.

–

Helder Pereira

“

All our food is made from authentic family recipes . ”

peppers, onions and potatoes, and pan-seared salmon steak with lemon and herb butter will not disappoint. Nevermind the Prego sandwich consisting of thin steak cooked with wine and garlic and served on a Portuguese roll.

Far and away, the most popular among the entrees is the succulent churrasco char-grilled chicken, available in half-bird and wholebird portions. Be sure to order a side of crisp, hand-cut fries with your chicken.

While side items like rice, garden salad, and mixed veggies are all worthwhile, consider paying the small upcharge and ordering signature sides like green beans with hard-boiled egg slices, house specialty potato salad, or garlic-infused rapini, also known as broccoli rabe.

“All our food is made from authentic family recipes, and we keep things simple,” said Helder. Rosemary added, “When we say simple, we mean we use fresh garlic, house wine and some salt, not a lot of other seasonings, spices, or sauces to complicate the food.”

Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying at least one of the best-selling Portuguese egg custard tarts.

“It’s like crème brulee in a puff pastry,” Rosemary said. “People really love them.”

Prior to opening the restaurant, Rosemary ran a small business from home selling imported items like Portuguese olive oil, coffee, and lupini beans. Nowadays, a market section in Little Portugal is set apart for the aforementioned items plus butters, cheeses, smoked meats, sardines, and more.

The eatery’s modest dining room contains an assortment of two- and four-top tables with an open kitchen. A prevailing motif throughout the space is the brightly colored rooster, a well-known symbol of faith and good fortune in the Portuguese culture.

At the time we visited, Little Portugal boasted a stellar sanitation grade of 100, a score the owners are rightfully proud to display.

“We work hard to keep things clean and to consistently serve the best quality food we possibly can,” Helder said with a smile.

Little Portugal is open Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Online ordering and curbside delivery are available.

HUSBAND AND WIFE OWNERS, HELDER AND ROSEMARY PEREIRA.

OSTERIA G

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

from the kitchen. Consider the popular starter called Chowder Baked Oysters involving mollusks sourced from Prince Edward Island stuffed with a light cream sauce, diced bacon, and an oyster cracker crust.

A

RECENT AFTERNOON VISIT

to Italian-centric bistro Osteria G was punctuated by frequent phone rings. One patron after another called to make a dinner reservation for that night or the following evening.

“I’m convinced we have the best clientele in the state,” said convivial proprietor Joe Reinis, a Long Island, New York, native who runs the casual fine-dining restaurant along with his wife, Ashley Startek. “We’re a regulars-driven restaurant built on word of mouth.”

It’s easy to see why so many folks enjoy dining at Osteria G, which is situated in a small strip shopping center straddling the border of Apex and Holly Springs. For starters, the seasonal menu features locally sourced

ingredients, and inventive weekly specials draw a crowd.

“We have a minimum of five food specials daily, and they are always rotating,” Reinis said, adding that the eatery sources essentials from Raleigh-based Ford’s Produce and Charlotte-based Inland Seafood, among other purveyors.

Executive Chef Manny Lozano, who received his culinary training in France and has worked at high-end restaurants in New York City, finesses pasta, seafood and beef dishes with creativity and skill.

“He’s truly special, and all of his dishes are layered and well composed,” said Reinis, Evidence of Lozano’s prowess is witnessed in practically everything that emerges

Signature appetizer Meatball Wellington features puff pastry filled with a house mixture of veal, beef, and pork and topped with a Madeira mushroom sauce.

When it comes to entrees, order the Black Garlic Shrimp (owner Joe’s favorite dish), which comprises aged garlic that is slow-roasted for 27 days and tossed in a basil pesto sauce served with spaghetti and shrimp.

A deconstructed chicken pot pie shows off more of the chef’s gastronomic wizardry.

“He wraps white meat around dark meat with sous vide chicken and waffles made of puff pastry, and then there’s a fantastic demi-glace,” said Reinis.

Be sure to try the house-made butters — especially the honey and sea salt variety — with Italian bread.

Standout appetizer Chowder Baked Oysters will not disappoint.

On Wednesdays, Osteria G offers a special four-course menu for $32 a person (see sample menu).

“This allows chef to be even more creative and innovative, and it’s something unique that no one else (around here) is really doing,” said Reinis. “Since our menu is seasonal, sometimes even changing twice each season, we like to serve the freshest items possible.”

Don’t miss dessert. The classic, airy tiramisu is always on point. But you’ll fall in love with the chocolate Napoleon featuring mousse-filled French puff pastry crowned with hazelnut pralines.

Osteria G offers a full bar stocked with white and red wines from California and Italy. A rotating selection of locally brewed beers are available on draft. With more than 30 varieties of whiskey

FOUR-COURSE PRIX FIXE SAMPLE MENU

COURSE ONE

Prosciutto, asparagus & arugula salad

Shrimp cocktail

COURSE TWO

Charcuterie plate

Cheese plate

COURSE THREE

Chianti-braised chicken with bacon and mushrooms over egg noodles

Rolled eggplant over spaghetti

Diced steak with sauteed mushrooms

over cavatelli

COURSE FOUR

Chocolate chip cannoli

Tiramisu

The casual fine dining atmosphere at Osteria G entices many regular and date-night customers.

The Smoked Old Fashioned is among the restaurant’s most popular hand-crafted cocktails.

on hand, notable craft cocktails include a Smoked Old Fashioned and an espressospiked martini.

A certified sommelier, Reinis capably guides guests in pairing wine with the cuisine. Half-priced bottles of vino are offered every Tuesday.

“We are port tonging nicer bottles of wine,” said Reinis. “We also host a chef and sommelier dinner, usually the last Thursday of each month. Chef prepares dishes from a particular geographic region, and I incorporate it with wine. It’s always well received.”

Service at the restaurant is friendly and efficient. Reinis said the staff’s dedication to helping each other and serving others is

commendable, and he is committed to ensuring that guests feel like they are coming to his home for dinner.

“In the restaurant business, it’s known that there’s the ‘front of the house’ and the ‘back of the house,’” he explained. “We consider it one house because we’re one family, and that’s a beautiful thing.”

Closed on Sunday and Monday, Osteria G is open Tuesday through Saturday for dinner. Reservations are strongly encouraged and are accepted online and by phone. t

OSTERIA G

5160 SUNSET LAKE ROAD, SUITE 101, APEX (984) 229-7480

OSTERIAG.COM

Osteria G owners Joe Reinis and Ashley Startek

Signature starter Meatball Wellington involves puff pastry stuffed with a mixture of beef, pork and veal.

NOLAN R. PERRY J. DAVID MORGAN

DINING GUIDE

A selection of restaurants, bakeries, bistros and cafes in Cary, Apex, Fuquay-Varina, Holly Springs, Morrisville and Raleigh.

CARY

Abbey Road

Tavern & Grill

“Great food … outstanding live music.”

1195 W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 481-4434; ; abbeyroadnc.com

Academy Street Bistro

“A fresh take on eclectic cuisine in the heart of Cary.” 200 S. Academy St., Cary; (919) 377-0509; academystreetbistro.com

Alex & Teresa’s Italian Pizzeria & Trattoria

“Authentic Italian recipes and homemade pasta.”

941 N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 377-0742; alexandteresastrattoria.com

Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream

“Premium quality ice cream and sorbet.” 10120 Green Level Church Road #208, Cary; (919) 901-8560;

1008 Ryan Road, Cary; (919) 234-0037; andiasicecream.com

Annelore’s German Bakery

“Authentic German pastries, breads and pretzels”

308 W. Chatham St., Cary (919) 267-6846; anneloresbakery.com

Asali Desserts & Café

A gourmet sweet shop crossed with a refined coffeehouse.

107 Edinburgh Dr., Suite 106-A, Cary (919) 362-7882; asalicafe.com

Ashworth Drugs

“Quintessential place for fresh-squeezed lemonade, old-fashioned milkshakes and hot dogs.”

105 W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 467-1877; ashworthdrugs.com

A Taste of Jamaica

Family-owned, authentic dine-in and take-out Jamaican restaurant.

600 East Chatham St., Cary; (919) 461-0045; tasteofjamaicanc.com

Awaze Ethiopian Cuisine

“East African eatery showcasing vegetarian and vegan options.”

904 Northeast Maynard Road, Cary (919) 377-2599 awazecuisine.com

Baked Cookies & Dough

“Edible cookie dough, soft serve ice cream and family-friendly treats.”

107 Edinburgh South Dr., Cary (919) 377-0058; bakedcary.com

Big Dom’s Bagel Shop

“Serving bagels, B’donuts and sandwiches”

203 E Chatham St., Cary; (919) 377-1143; bigdomsbagelshop.com

The Big Easy Oven & Tap

“Modern, Southern kitchen with New Orleans roots.” 231 Grande Heights Drive, Cary; (919) 468-6007; thebigeasyovenandtap.com

Big Mike’s BBQ

“Beers on tap to compliment locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ.”

1222 NW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 799-2023; brewnquenc.com

Bonefish Grill

“Fresh is our signature.”

2060 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-1347; bonefishgrill.com

Bosphorus Restaurant

“Traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.”

329-A N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 460-1300; bosphorus-nc.com

BottleDog Bites & Brews

“A casual place to relax and enjoy unconventional food and craft beer”

8306 Chapel Hill Road, Cary; (919) 390-1617; bottledogcary.com

Bravo’s Mexican Grill

“Extensive menu raises the ante considerably above the typical Tex-Mex.” 208 Grande Heights Drive, Cary (919) 481-3811; bravosmexicangrill.net

Brecotea Baking Studio

“Abundant sweet and savory selections.” 1144 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 234-1555; brecotea.com

Brewster’s Pub

“Open late, serving a full food and drink menu.”

1885 Lake Pine Drive, Cary (919) 650-1270; brewsterspubcary.com

Brig’s

“Breakfast creations, cool salads and hot sandwich platters.”

1225 NW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 481-9300; 1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 604, Cary; (919) 859-2151; brigs.com

Buldaegi BBQ House

“Contemporary Korean BBQ.”

2470 Walnut St., Cary; (919) 703-0400; buldaegi.com

Burrito Shak

“Quality fresh-Mex cuisine, featuring slow-roasted pulled pork, house-rubbed chicken breast, carne asada and battered Atlantic cod.”

2982 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 267-6772; Burritoshak.com

Cha House

“A relaxing place to sip quality tea and enjoy good conversation”

1319 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (984) 465-0498; chahouseusa.com

Chanticleer Café & Bakery

“Family-owned restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch and specialty coffees.”

6490 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 781-4810; chanticleercafe.com

Chef’s Palette

“Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service.”

3460 Ten Ten Road, Cary; (919) 267-6011; chefspalette.net

Chicken Salad Chick

Gourmet chicken salad, called “the best in America.”

302 Colonades Way, Suite 202 (Waverly Place), Cary (984) 207-5516; chickensaladchick.com/cary-nc/

Cilantro Indian Café

“Northeast Indian cuisine with fresh ingredients and halal meats.”

107 Edinburgh S. Drive , Suite 107, Cary; (919) 234-1264; cilantroindia.com

CinéBistro

“Ultimate dinner-and-a-movie experience.”

525 New Waverly Place, Cary; (919) 987-3500; cinebistro.com/waverly

CARY | BEDFORD | HOLLY SPRINGS | RALEIGH | WAKE FOREST

DINING GUIDE

Cinnaholic

“Over-the-top, decadent cinnamon rolls.”

1209 Parkside Main St., Cary; (919) 650-1407; cinnaholiccary.com

City Barbeque

“Barbeque in its truest form.”

1305 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 439-5191; citybbq.com

Coffee & Crepes

“Freshly prepared sweet and savory crepes.” 315 Crossroads Blvd., Cary; (919) 233-0288; coffeeandcrepes.com

Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar

“Good old-fashioned burgers and bottled soda.”

126 Kilmayne Drive, Cary; (919) 466-0055; corbettsburgers.com

Craft Public House

“Casual family restaurant.”

1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 601, Cary; (919) 851-9173; craftpublichouse.com

Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery

“Family-owned and operated.”

1983 High House Road, Cary; (919) 380-1840; cremacoffeebakery.com

Crosstown Pub & Grill

“A straight-forward menu covers all the bases.”

140 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 650-2853; crosstowndowntown.com

Crumbl Cookies

“Cookies baked fresh all day, every day.”

1105 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 364-1100 crumblcookies.com

Custom Confections

“Custom cheesecakes made locally.”

1187 West Chatham St., Cary; customconfections.net; instagram.com/cary_confections

Danny’s Bar-B-Que

“All slow-cooked on an open pit with hickory wood.”

311 Ashville Ave. G, Cary; (919) 851-5541; dannysbarbque.com

Di Fara Pizza Tavern

“We don’t cut any corners when it comes to ingredients.”

111 East Chatham St., Cary; (919) 678-5300; difarapizzatavern.com

Doherty’s Irish Pub

“Catch the game or listen to live music.”

1979 High House Road, Cary; (919) 388-9930; dohertysirishpubnc.com

Duck Donuts

“Warm, delicious and just the way you like them.”

100 Wrenn Drive #10, Cary; (919) 468-8722; duckdonuts.com/location/cary-nc

Enrigo Italian Bistro

“Fresh food made from pure ingredients.”

575 New Waverly, Suite 106, Cary; (919) 854-7731; dineenrigo.com

Famous Toastery

“Top-notch service for breakfast, brunch and lunch.”

Waverly Place Shopping Center,

316 Colonades Way, Suite 201C, Cary; (919) 655-1971; famoustoastery.com

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

1121 Parkside Main St., Cary; (919) 380-0450; fiveguys.com

Goodberry’s Frozen Custard

1146 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 467-2386

2325 Davis Drive, Cary; (919) 469-3350; goodberrys.com

Great Harvest Bread Co.

“Real food that tastes great.”

1220 NW Maynard Road, Cary (919) 460-8158; greatharvestcary.com

Gonza Tacos y Tequila

“Award-winning Colombian-Mexican cuisine.” 525-105 New Waverly Place, Cary; (919) 653-7310; gonzatacosytequila.com

Hank’s Downtown Dive

“Relaxed restaurant serving local and Mexican eats.”

111 East Chatham St., Cary; (984) 464-2524; hanksdowntowndive.com

Herons

“The signature restaurant of The Umstead Hotel and Spa.”

100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary; (919) 447-4200; theumstead.com/dining/restaurants-raleigh-nc

Honey Pig

“Count on generous portions and friendly service at this expansive Korean restaurant.” 1065 Darrington Drive, Cary; (919) 234-0088 honeypignc.com

J&S Pizza

Authentic Italian cuisine and New York-style pizza since 1995. Locations in Apex, Cary and Fuquay-Varina. jandsnypizza.com

JuiceVibes

“Made-to-order juices from locally sourced produce.”

1369 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 377-8923; juicevibes.com

Kababish Café

“A celebration of deliciousness and creativity.”

201 W. Chatham St., Suite 103, Cary; (919) 377-8794; kababishcafe.com

ko•än

“Upscale, contemporary Southeast Asian dishes.” 2800 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-9229; koancary.com

La Farm Bakery

“Handcrafted daily … only the freshest ingredients.”

4248 N.W. Cary Parkway, Cary; 220 W. Chatham St., Cary; 5055 Arco St., Cary; (919) 657-0657; lafarmbakery.com

DINING GUIDE

La Grassa Pastificio

“Hand-crafted Italian cuisine”

908 NE Maynard Road, Cary (984) 465-0594 lagrassaitaliano.com

LemonShark Poke

“The finest poke ingredients and local brews on tap.” 2000 Boulderstone Way, Cary; (919) 333-0066; lemonsharkpoke.com

Los Tres Magueyes

“We prepare our food fresh daily.” 110 S.W. Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 460-8757; lostresmagueyescary.com

Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen

“Exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes.” 7307 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 233-1632 lucky32.com/cary

Lucky Chicken

“All of our beautiful Peru, with every dish.”

1851 N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 338-4325; luckychickennc.net

Lugano Ristorante

“Italian dining in a comfortable and casual atmosphere.”

1060 Darrington Drive, Cary; (919) 468-7229; luganocary.com

Marco Pollo

“Peruvian rotisserie chicken.”

1871 Lake Pine Drive, Cary; (919) 694-5524; marcopollocary.com

Maximillians Grill & Wine Bar

“Global cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.”

8314 Chapel Hill Road, Cary; (919) 465-2455; maximilliansgrill.com

MC Modern Asian Cuisine

“Bringing upscale Asian flair to downtown Cary.”

324 South Academy St., Cary; (919) 650-1738; mccuisines.com

Mellow Mushroom

“Beer, calzones and creative stone-baked pizzas.”

4300 N.W. Cary Parkway, Cary; (919) 463-7779; mellowmushroom.com

Mithai Indian Café

“Bengali-style sweet and savory selections free of preservatives and artificial flavors.”

744-F E. Chatham St., Cary (919) 469-9651; mithaius.com

MOD Pizza

“Serving artisan style pizzas, superfast.”

316 Colonades Way Suite 206-C, Cary (919) 241-72001; modpizza.com/locations/ waverly

Mookie’s New York Deli

“A bona fide, no-frills sandwich spot”

1010 Tryon Village Drive, Cary (919) 900-7770; mookiesnydeli.com

Noodle Boulevard

“Ten variations on the ramen theme, covering a pan-Asian spectrum.”

1718 Walnut St., Cary; (984) 222-3003; noodleblvd.com

Once in a Blue Moon Bakery & Café

“The fast track to sweet tooth satisfaction.”

115-G W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 319-6554; bluemoonbakery.com

The Original N.Y. Pizza

“Consistent every visit.”

831 Bass Pro Lane, Cary; (919) 677-8484

6458 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 852-2242 theoriginalnypizza.com

Peck and Plume

“Modern American dining in downtown Cary.”

301 S Academy St, Cary ; (919) 804-1400; peckandplume.com

Pizzeria Faulisi

“Simple foods from a simple way of cooking: a wood-burning oven.”

215 E. Chatham St., Suite 101, Cary; pizzeriafaulisi.com

Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café

“Gourmet market, café and wine bar.”

211 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 377-1788; prosepicurean.com

Pure Juicery Bar

“The Triangle’s only all-vegan juice bar.”

716 Slash Pine Drive, Cary; (919) 234-1572; purejuicerybar.com

Rally Point Sport Grill

“Lunch and dinner food in a pub atmosphere.”

837 Bass Pro Lane, Cary; (919) 678-1088; rallypointsportgrill.com

Red Bowl Asian Bistro

“Each distinctive dish is handcrafted.”

2020 Boulderstone Way, Cary; (919) 388-9977; redbowlcary.com

Ricci’s Trattoria

“Keeping true to tradition.”

10110 Green Level Church Road, Cary; (919) 380-8410; riccistrattoria.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

“Great food always, with a side of good times.”

8111-208 Tryon Woods Drive, Cary; (919) 851-3999; ruckuspizza.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

“Cooked to perfection.”

2010 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-0033; ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/cary

Sassool

“Serving authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine.”

1347 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 300-5586; sassool.com

Seoul Garden

“A wide-ranging menu provides plenty of bona fide Korean options.”

815 W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 234-6002; seoulgardennc.com

Serendipity Gourmet Deli

“Discovering the unusual, valuable or pleasantly surprising.”

118 S. Academy St., Cary; (919) 469-1655; serendipitygourmetdelinc.com

Seol Grille

“Scratch-made steamed beef and pork dumplings practically melt in your mouth.”

2310 Walnut St.

(Centrum at Crossroads), Cary (984) 241-9112; seolgrille.com

Bibibop Asian Grill

Sophie’s Grill & Bar

“Traditional pub fare along with Old-World cuisine.”

2734 NC-55, Cary; (919) 355-2377; sophiesgrillandbar.com

Spirits Pub & Grub

“Wide variety of menu items, all prepared in a scratch kitchen.”

701 E. Chatham St., Cary (919) 462-7001; spiritscary.com

Sugar Buzz Bakery

“Custom cakes … and more.”

1231 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 238-7224; sugarbuzzbakery.com

Szechuan Mansion Hotpot

“A cook-it-yourself meal using a cauldron of flavored broth and fresh ingredients.”

1353 Kildaire Farm Road

(Shoppes at Kildaire), Cary (919) 800-1802; szechuanmansion.com

Taco Addicts

“West-coast inspired tacos.”

131 Crossroads Boulevard, Cary; (919) 896-8043; taco-addicts.com

Taipei 101

“Chinese and Taiwanese. Serves lunch and dinner.”

121 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 388-5885; facebook.com/carytaipei101

Tangerine Café

“From Thai to Vietnamese to Korean to Indonesian.”

2422 S.W. Cary Parkway, Cary; (919) 468-8688; tangerinecafecary.com

A Taste of Jamaica

“A Jamaican food outpost”

600 E. Chatham St., Suite B, Cary (919) 461-0045

Tazza Kitchen

“Wood-fired cooking and craft beverages.”

600 Ledgestone Way, Cary; (919) 651-8281; tazzakitchen.com/location/stonecreekvillage

INSPIRED BY the traditional Korean dish bibimbap, fast-casual eatery Bibibop Asian Grill in Cary offers a 100% gluten-free concept in a pristine, modern setting. The restaurant’s mission is all about well-being.

Whether you select a signature meal or build your own bowl, there are plenty of healthy, unprocessed options to consider. Proteins include grilled chicken, steak, and tofu, while toppings range from bean sprouts and kimchi to cage-free egg and toasted sesame broccoli. Never mind your choice of purple or white rice, supergreen salad, or sweet potato noodles.

“With the exception of the chicken and steak proteins and some sauces, the side items and toppings are all vegan,” said General Manager Lyn McClellan, who hails from Thailand. “People seem to enjoy all the options that are available, and we have continued to see a good number of customers coming in each week.”

Complimentary miso soup is available with every meal. Self-serve drinks include passionfruit lemonade, black currant black tea, and green tea, plus typical soda selections. Finish your meal with a dairy-free coconut milk pudding with mango for dessert. Bibibop is open daily for lunch and dinner. Indoor and outdoor dining is available. Order online for carryout or delivery.

— David McCreary

2007 WALNUT ST., CROSSROADS SHOPPING CENTER, CARY BIBIBOP.COM

Jonathan Fredin

Pineapple Sol

302 COLONADES WAY, SUITE 109, CARY PINEAPPLESOL.COM

DINING GUIDE

Terra Bonum Salad Cafe & Coffee

“Salads, wraps and other healthy lunch options.”

821 Bass Pro Lane, Cary; (984) 664-3030

Thai Spices & Sushi

“Freshest, most-authentic Thai cuisine and sushi.” 986 High House Road, Cary; (919) 319-1818; thaispicesandsushi.com

Totopos Street Food & Tequila

“A walk through Mexico City.”

1388 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 678-3449; totoposfoodandtequila.com/cary

Tribeca Tavern

“Handcrafted burgers, homegrown beer.”

500 Ledgestone Way, Cary; (919) 465-3055; facebook.com/TribecaTavern’

Udupi Café

“Authentic south Indian vegetarian cuisine.”

590 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 465-0898; sriudupicafe.com

V Pizza

“True Neapolitan pizza, made with the absolute best ingredients.”

FOUNDED BY two women of international heritage, fast-casual breakfast/ brunch/lunch café Pineapple Sol represents the fulfilment of a dream by Aleena Azhar and Dahiana Vitabar. Their vision involved creating a gathering spot inspired by their love of quality food and sense of community.

Instead of debuting their restaurant at the height of Covid-19, Azhar and Vitabar, who hails from Uruguay, decided to offer unique event experiences like luxury picnics and high teas. In addition, they sold charcuterie boards and custom cakes. The strategy paid off, as word spread about their fledgling brand.

If you’re in the mood for breakfast or brunch cuisine, you can’t go wrong with lavender pancakes topped with mascarpone cheese, a steak, egg and cheese sandwich, or the acai bowl filled with seasonal berries, coconut flakes, honey, granola and peanut butter.

A convenient grab-and-go cooler is stocked with salads, yogurt parfaits, fruit cups and, occasionally, charcuterie boxes.

At any given time, 10 flavors of gelato are available as well as a tempting assortment of pastries such as macaroons, muffins, cupcakes and slices of cake.

Pineapple Sol is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Covered patio seating is available. For more details about picnics, high tea or other catering options, see the restaurant’s website.

— David McCreary

1389 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 650-1821; vpizza.com

VomFass Vinegar, Oil & Spice Shop

“Taste our premium olive oils and specialty vinegars before you buy.”

302 Colonades Way Suite 203, Cary; (919) 977-6745; vomfassusa.com

Yuri Japanese Restaurant

“For sushi fans and connoisseurs of Japanese cuisine.”

1361 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 481-0068; yurijapaneserestaurant.com

APEX

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

1700 Center St., Apex; (919) 372-5383; abbeyroadnc.com

Jonathan Fredin

DINING GUIDE Vieni Ristobar

242 SOUTH MAIN ST., HOLLY SPRINGS VIENIRISTOBAR.COM

Anna’s Pizzeria

“Piping hot pizzas and mouth watering Italian food.”

100 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 267-6237; annaspizzeria.com

Apex Wings Restaurant & Pub

“Time-tested eatery serving up chicken wings and craft beers.”

518 E. Williams St., Apex; (919) 387-0082; apexwings.com

A Taste of Brooklyn

“Petite bakery with a cheery vibe.”

101 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 362-8408; atasteofbrooklynnc.com

Bonafide Bakeshop & Cafe

“A blend of Northern classics and Southern comforts.”

1232 W. Williams St., Apex 919-372-5000; BonafideBakeshop.com

Big Mike’s BBQ

“Beers on tap to compliment locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ.”

2045 Creekside Landing Drive, Apex; (919) 338-2591; brewnquenc.com

Common Grounds

Coffee House & Desserts

IT’S USUALLY A GOOD SIGN that a restaurant is worth visiting when all the tables are filled with patrons. Since opening in mid-2020, business at Vieni Ristobar Italian eatery in downtown Holly Springs has been bustling.

So, why is Vieni so popular? For starters, virtually everything is made from scratch daily, including the pasta. What’s more, friendly, efficient service is executed by well-trained staff.

But make no mistake when it comes to what sets this restaurant apart from many others: It’s the presence of vivacious proprietor Randi Cinelli, a woman who makes every customer feel welcome and appreciated.

“The main reason we are here is to create a memorable experience for each guest,” said Cinelli, whose family is well-regarded in the Triangle’s Italian restaurant scene. “We want you to order something that we have created and know that it was made fresh to order.”

Whether you go for the pizza, the entrees or even the appetizers, there’s plenty to like about Vieni’s mouthwatering menu.

Vieni is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Reservations are accepted for parties of six or more. Al fresco dining is available but be sure to arrive early to snag one of these choice tables.

— David McCreary

“The highest-quality, locally roasted coffee.” 219 N. Salem St., Suite 101, Apex; (919) 387-0873; commongroundsapex.com

Daniel’s Restaurant & Catering

“Pasta dishes, hand-stretched pizzas and scratch-made desserts.”

1430 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-1006; danielsapex.com

Doherty’s Irish Pub

“Catch the game or listen to live music.”

5490 Apex Peakway, Apex; (919) 387-4100; dohertysirishpubnc.com

Five Guys Burgers & Fries

1075 Pine Plaza Drive, Apex; (919) 616-0011; fiveguys.com

Mamma Mia Italian Bistro

“A taste of Italy in every bite”

708 Laura Duncan Road, Apex; (919) 363-2228; mammamianc.com

Jonathan Fredin

DINING GUIDE

The Mission Market

“A casual hangout to drink, eat and shop.”

124 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 629-4064; shopthemission.com

Monifa’s Southern Food

“Take-out restaurant serving traditional fare.”

841 Perry Road, Apex; (919) 372-5072; monifassouthernfood.com

Osteria G

“Traditional italian fare featuring housemade pasta.”

5160 Sunset Lake Road, Apex; (984) 229-7480; osteriag.com

The Peak on Salem

“Seasonal contemporary Southern cuisine”

126 N. Salem St., Apex (919) 446-6060; thepeakonsalem.com

The Provincial “Fresh. Simple.”

119 Salem St., Apex; (919) 372-5921; theprovincialapex.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

“Great food always, with a side of good times.”

1055 Pine Plaza Drive, Apex; (919) 446-6333; ruckuspizza.com

Rudy’s Pub & Grill

“Comfortable and familiar, just like home.”

780 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-5061; rudysofapex.com

Salem Street Pub

“Friendly faces and extensive menu.”

113 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 387-9992; salemstreetpub.com

Scratch Kitchen and Taproom

“Asian-influenced American cuisine”

225 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 372-5370; scratchkitchenandtaproom.com

Skipper’s Fish Fry

“Homemade from our own special recipes.”

1001 E. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-2400; skippersfish.com

The Wake Zone Espresso

“Your special home away from home.”

6108 Old Jenks Road, Apex; (919) 267-4622; thewakezone.com

Utica Bakery

“Offering hand-crafted European/Italian pastries and baked goods.”

430 Upchurch St., Apex; (919) 267-5716; uticabakery.com

Vegan Community Kitchen

“Meatless with a Turkish spin.”

803 E. Williams St., Apex; (919) 372-5027; vegancommunitykitchen.com

Fish tacos with Spanish rice and hushpuppies from Skipper’s Fish Fry in Apex.

Zeera Indian Restaurant

1311

DINING GUIDE

FUQUAY-VARINA

Anna’s Pizzeria

“Piping hot pizzas and mouth watering Italian food.”

138 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 285-2497; annaspizzeria.com

Aviator SmokeHouse

BBQ Restaurant

“All of our food is made in-house.”

525 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 557-7675; aviatorbrew.com

Cultivate Coffee Roasters

“Modern industrial twist on a small town coffee shop.”

128 S. Fuquay Ave., Fuquay Varina (919) 285-4067; cultivate.coffe

Juicehaus

“Made-to-order fresh, raw juice.”

509 North Broad St, Fuquay Varina (919) 396-5588; juicehaus.or

SINCE OPENING IN 2017, Zeera Indian Restaurant has steadily built a reputation for its quality cuisine, friendly service and serene locale. Fittingly, the family-run establishment recently earned a 2022 Best of Main & Broad (a Cary Magazine sister publication) Maggy Award.

“We are grateful that the community has responded to this concept, and we are passionate about what we believe in — authentic goodness,” says proprietor Avis Price, who hails from central India. “Our guests have become part of the Zeera family, and we feel like we are serving them in our home dining room.”

Offering a variety of robust flavors based on family recipes, the full-service restaurant serves traditional Indian cuisine that has been adapted to suit the palates of local clientele. The distinctive dishes include spices like turmeric, ginger, carom seeds and cumin, which is synonymous with the word “zeera.”

Fourteen vegetarian main courses are available, half of which can be offered as vegan dishes. All entrees are served with Basmati rice. If you manage to save room for dessert, go for the carrot halwa with cashews and raisins or the mango custard with mixed fruit.

Zeera is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Reservations are accepted and are strongly recommended on Friday and Saturday evenings. Online ordering and takeout also are available.

—David McCreary

Los Tres Magueyes

“We prepare our food fresh daily.”

401 Wake Chapel Road, Fuquay-Varina; (919) 552-3957; lostresmagueyes.com

Stick Boy Bread Co.

“Handcrafted baked goods from scratch … all natural ingredients.”

127 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 557-2237; stickboyfuquay.com

The Mason Jar Tavern

“All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

305 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 762-5555; themasonjartavern.com

Wingin’ It Bar and Grille

“Serves lunch, dinner and drinks.”

1625 N. Main St., Suite 109, Fuquay-Varina; (919) 762-0962; facebook.com/ winginitbarandgrille

E. BROAD ST., FUQUAY-VARINA ZEERANC.COM

Jonathan Fredin

HOLLY SPRINGS

Acme Pizza Co.

“Chicago-style deep dish pizza.”

204 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 552-8800; acmepizzaco.com

The Blind Pelican

“First-rate fish, shrimp, lobster, crab, oysters and other ocean-centric delights.”

120 Bass Lake Road, Holly Springs; (984) 225-2471; blindpelicanseafood.com

Los Tres Magueyes

325 North Main St., Holly Springs; (919) 552-6272; lostresmagueyes.com

Mama Bird’s Cookies + Cream

“A unique spin on a timeless dessert.”

304 N. Main St., Holly Springs; (919) 762-7808; mamabirdsicecream.com

My Way Tavern

“Freshly made all-American foods.”

301 W. Center St., Holly Springs; (919) 285-2412; mywaytavern.com

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi

“Serving authentic Thai cuisine, fresh sushi and crafted cocktails.”

242 South Main St., Suite 100, Holly Springs (984) 538-6742; oshathaikitchennc.com

Rise Biscuits & Donuts

169 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs; (919) 586-7343; risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Thai Thai Cuisine

“Fresh authentic Thai food.” 108 Osterville Drive, Holly Springs; (919) 303-5700; thaithaicuisinenc.com

The Butcher’s Market

“Premium meats and specialty grocery.” 4200 Lassiter Road, Holly Springs; (919) 267-919); thebutchersmarkets.com

The Mason Jar Tavern

“All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

114 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs; (919) 964-5060; themasonjartavern.com

The sweet-and-savory biscuit, Sweet Country Blues, from Rise, arose when a frequent customer at downtown Durham’s Rise regularly ordered a glazed blueberry biscuit with all-natural pork sausage from Cooper River Farms.

Jonathan Fredin

Di Fara PIZZA TAVERN

111 EAST CHATHAM ST., CARY | DIFARAPIZZATAVERN.COM

DINING GUIDE

The Original N.Y. Pizza

634 Holly Springs Road, Holly Springs; (919) 567-0505;theoriginalnypizza.com

Vieni Ristobar

“Laid-back Italian fare.”

242 South Main St., Holly Springs; (984) 225-1134; vieniristobar.com

MORRISVILLE

Alpaca Peruvian

Charcoal Chicken

“Unforgettable rotisserie chicken.”

9575 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 378-9259; alpacachicken.com

Another Broken Egg Café

“A totally egg-ceptional experience.” 1121 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 465-1079; anotherbrokenegg.com

Babymoon Café

“Pizzas, pastas, seafood, veal, steaks, sandwiches and gourmet salads.” 100 Jerusalem Drive, Suite 106, Morrisville; (919) 465 9006; babymooncafe.com

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

WHEN GREGORY AND VALERIE NORTON moved from New York to North Carolina to open an authentic Brooklyn-style pizza joint, the couple thought through every conceivable facet — even down to replicating water from the Big Apple to make the dough.

It’s this kind of attention to detail that has made downtown Cary’s Di Fara Pizza Tavern such a popular dining destination.

“We don’t cut any corners when it comes to ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, Grana Padano cheese and snips of fresh basil. We only use the best items we can find,” said Gregory Norton.

You’ll find about half a dozen varieties of pizza available by the slice, either in traditional style or squares, all day, every day. Among the standout pies include the house classic with sausage, peppers, onions and mushrooms and the Chaos crowned with sausage, meatballs, cherry tomatoes, onions and fresh garlic.

The gooey calzone is big enough to feed four to five hungry people, and be sure to order a side of marinara sauce for dunking.

“The calzone has low-moisture mozzarella, buffalo mozzarella, seasoned ricotta and hand-grated Grana Padano with fresh-cut basil and house-made garlic oil sauce,” Norton said.

— David McCreary

“The quality of the beef and the toppings make our burgers stand apart.” 3300 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 297-0953; baddaddysburgerbar.com

Capital City Chop House

“Perfect place for a business lunch or dinner or a quick bite before catching a flight.”

151 Airgate Drive, Morrisville; (919) 484-7721; chophousesofnc.com

Clean Juice

“Organic juices, smoothies and acai bowls.”

3035 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 468-8286; cleanjuice.com

Crumbl Cookies

Super-sized treats with a rotating menu of classic and unusual flavors. 1105 Market Center Drive, Morrisville (919) 364-1100; crumblcookies.com

Jonathan Fredin

Desy’s Grill & Bar

“Straightforward pub grub at a relaxed sports bar.”

10255 Chapel Hill Road, Suite 200, Morrisville; (919) 380-1617; desysbar.com

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

“Steaks, seafood, chicken and ribs, all seared over local hickory, oak and pecan wood.”

3200 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 653-0111; morrisville.firebirdsrestaurants.com

Fount Coffee + Kitchen

“Coffee and a menu that is 100 percent gluten-free.”

10954 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (984) 888-5454; fountcoffee.com

The Full Moon Oyster Bar & Seafood Kitchen

“Homemade recipes handed down over the years.”

1600 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 378-9524; fullmoonoysterbar.com

G. 58 Modern Chinese Cuisine

“Master chefs from China create an unforgettable fine dining experience.”

10958 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 466-8858; g58cuisine.com

Georgina’s Pizzeria & Restaurant

“Mouthwatering homemade Italian dishes.”

3536 Davis Drive, Morrisville; (919) 388-3820; georginascary.com

HiPoke

“Fresh Fun Poke.”

9573 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 650-3398; hipokes.com

Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant

9605 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 481-9002; micancunmx.com

Neomonde

“A wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary Mediterranean menu items.”

10235 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 466-8100; neomonde.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes

“Cakes are baked fresh daily, in a variety of flavors and sizes.”

2008 Market Center Drive, Unit 17130, Morrisville; (919) 694-5300; nothingbundtcakes.com

Rise Biscuits & Donuts

“Old school, new school, and specialty donuts.”

1100 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 377-0385; risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

1101 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 388-3500; ruckuspizza.com

Smokey’s BBQ Shack

“Meats are dry rubbed with love and slow smoked with hickory wood.”

10800 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 469-1724; smokeysshack.com

Taste Vietnamese

“Prepared with passion and perfected through generations.”

152 Morrisville Square Way, Morrisville; (919) 234-6385; tastevietnamese.com

Village Deli & Grill

“Wholesome homemade foods.”

909 Aviation Parkway #100, Morrisville; (919) 462-6191; villagedeli.net

ZenFish Poké Bar

“Guilt-free, healthy, fast-casual dining.”

9924 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 234-0914; zenfishpokebar.com

RALEIGH

Angus Barn

“World-renowned for its service.”

9401 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh; (919) 781-2444; angusbarn.com

Annelore’s German Bakery

“Pastries using the finest local ingredients.”

1249 Farmers Market Drive, Raleigh (919) 294-8040; facebook.com/AnneloresGermanBakery

Flying Biscuit Café

“Southern-inspired menu of comfort food made with fresh ingredients.”

2016 Clark Ave., Raleigh; (919) 833-6924, flyingbiscuit.com/locations-2/Raleigh

Garland

“Indian and Asian cuisine with a Southern twist.”

14 W Martin St, Raleigh; (919) 833-6886; garlandraleigh.com

Rey’s

“Fine dining with a French Quarter flair.”

1130 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh (919) 380-0122; reysrestaurant.com

The Big Easy Oven & Tap

“Modern, Southern kitchen with New Orleans roots.”

222 Fayetteville St., Raleigh (919) 832-6082; thebigeasyovenandtap.com

The Pit

“Authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue.”

328 W. Davie St., Raleigh; (919) 890-4500; thepit-raleigh.com

At Hank’s Downtown Dive, brisket tacos come with Hank’s Sauce, shallots and cotija cheese.

Jonathan Fredin

MEET THE EXPERTS

Local professionals, here for you. SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Discover Wake County Public School System's Schools of Choice!

Our innovative and pioneering magnet programs challenge students to think creatively. Starting in kindergarten, students learn to see things from a different perspective. We offer programs with a focus in the arts, engineering, global studies, language immersion, leadership, and more. Visit www.wcpss.net/magnet and discover how creativity and critical thinking spark the curiosity of our students.

Frequently Asked Magnet Questions:

Q: How can I attend a magnet school?

A: You may apply to magnet schools during the application period, which begins in October and ends in January.

Q: Are there any entrance requirements for acceptance to a magnet school?

A: There are no tests or performance requirements for acceptance to a magnet school. However, the AIG Basics program at the middle school level does require AIG identification in order to apply for this program.

Q: Do I have to apply every year to keep my magnet seat?

A: Once you are accepted to a magnet school, there is guaranteed

assignment until the terminal grade. In order to continue in a magnet school from elementary to middle and from middle to high school, you must apply.

Q: If my child is accepted to a magnet elementary school, where does my child attend middle school?

A: Magnet elementary students have priority when applying to any magnet middle program. They have the highest priority for acceptance to a magnet middle school in their pathway.

Q: What is a magnet pathway?

A: Magnet program pathways allow students to continue with their chosen magnet theme from kindergarten through senior year of high school, if they choose. Students have a high priority for placement in a magnet middle school or magnet high school in their program pathway. Visit www. wcpss.net/magnet to access the K-12 pathways chart.

Q: To how many magnet and year-round schools may I apply?

A: You may apply to 1-5 magnet programs/schools and 1-2 year-round schools. You may rank your schools as first choice, second choice, etc.

For more information about magnet schools, please visit www.wcpss.net/ magnet. Or contact us by email at magnetcenter@wcpss.net or by calling 919-533-7289.

SMILES WITH STYLE

Smiles are always in Style! Lowery Smiles is a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile, using conservative, state-of-theart procedures that will result in beautiful, long lasting smiles! Led by Dr. Siti A. Lowery, they are proud to be an active part of the Cary community. A standard of excellence in personalized dental care enables the Lowery Smiles dental team to provide the quality dental services that patients deserve. This is what sets them apart. Lowery Smiles strives to build a firm foundation of trust

LOWERY SMILES

by treating their patients as special individuals. This is vital to success! The team at Lowery Smiles will do their utmost to create a relaxing and positive experience for you. They understand how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits. The entire team is dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized care and service to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Dr. Lowery (who has practiced in the field 25 years) completed her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) at the University of Maryland, after receiving a Bachelor of Science from Spelman College. In

addition, she completed a two-year General Practice Residency at Wake Forest University. Her repertoire includes cosmetic dentistry, advanced training in implant dentistry, Clear Aligners, and sleep apnea/snoring oral appliance therapy. Her team attends dental conventions, dental lectures, and meetings to stay informed of new techniques, the latest products, and the newest equipment that a modern dental office can utilize to provide state-of-the-art dental care. Dr. Lowery and her team would like to extend an invitation for you to enhance your Smile. Lowery Smiles, Dentistry with Style!

THE FACE OF GIVING BACK THROUGH SMILES

Being involved in the community is at the core of Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics. The team focuses on making a positive impact in people’s lives, and giving back to the community as much as possible. They sponsor local organizations, sports teams, and schools but also try to give back in whatever way they are

able whether that is donating school supplies or running a charitable drive in the office.

The practice has recently launched their new charity program, A Chance to Smile, that will cover the cost of orthodontic treatment for at least 10 children each year that are in foster care throughout the Triangle.Their desire is for each of these children to be proud of their smile and boost their self confidence. “We really love being able to be an integral part of our community. I am thrilled to have

the opportunity to come alongside these children during a pivotal time in their lives but more importantly, to help them feel more confident in their smiles.” says Dr. Bovenizer.

If you make a $25 donation, or more, then you get to adopt a plush version of their mascot, Seymour the Llama. Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics has teamed up with Friends of Wake Guardian at Litem and the funds raised will be donated back to them to help with any additional needs for the children.

BEAUTY AND CONFIDENCE

RESTORED TO YOUR SMILE

Cary Prosthodontics is proud to be an innovated leader in the replacement of missing and broken down teeth in Cary and nationwide.

Both Dr. Brandon Kofford and Dr. Kevin Lim have been involved in developing and educating other providers about a patent-pending process that has transformed the patient experience for the “Teeth-ina-DayTM” treatment concept. The process allows patients to have a better esthetic outcome, while reducing

the postsurgical discomfort. All this is achieved without compromising the integrity of the temporary fixed bridge during the healing period. Most patients can have their teeth removed, implants placed, and an interim prosthesis attached to the implants in the same appointment.

Cary Prosthodontics keeps the patient’s experience and satisfaction at the forefront of every procedure, customizing your smile to make sure your teeth not only look and feel great, but also function well. During the entire process of smile design, they will evaluate the jaw for adequate bone availability with a 3D x-ray. They then use a digital smile design process to fabricate teeth that can be used to replace your existing teeth.

Dr. Lim and Dr. Kofford received their master’s degrees in Prosthodontics, specializing in the most complex dental problems. Their advanced training includes full mouth rehabilitation, dental implants, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, jaw joint issues, bridges, crowns, and veneers. Their interest lies in the utilization of digital workflows to meet the complex needs of their patients whether it be a digital denture or in planning and executing digital implants.

Dr. Kofford and Dr. Lim find fulfillment in witnessing the positive impact that restoring someone’s smile can make in their life. Cary Prosthodontics keeps a welcoming and relaxing environment for all of their patients so that they enjoy coming to their dental office.

There is never a dull moment for Drs. Robert and Bobbi Stanley. The Cary family dentists are parents of four and owners of Stanley Dentistry, a comprehensive practice near Preston. They are founders and lead instructors at Stanley Institute for Comprehensive Dentistry, a dental continuing education organization. In late 2017, they both added Ironman to their already impressive list of accomplishments.

The Stanleys launched their practice, Stanley Dentistry, in 1995 with

a commitment to providing world-class dentistry with high-quality materials. Dr. Robert Stanley had always been a partner in the business side of the practice, and Dr. Bobbi was the only dentist. In 2008, Dr. Robert joined the clinical side of the family business as a full-time dentist.

“It just made sense personally and professionally for Rob to join me in practicing dentistry,” said Dr. Bobbi. “It is rare to go back to school for an entirely new career when you’re already a successful engineer. But he saw how much I truly enjoyed my work, and he had been interested in dentistry since spending time in his grandfather’s Chicago dental practice as a child.”

The Stanleys complement each other in life, in business, and in dentistry. Dr. Robert enjoys more detailed procedures like implants, root canals, and oral surgery, while Dr. Bobbi focuses on cosmetics, orthodontics, and Invisalign. In 2017, they added Dr. David Baranowski who focuses on general and restorative dentistry. The result is a practice that serves the dental needs of the entire family under one roof.

At Stanley Dentistry, Find Your Smile® is not just a catchy slogan, it’s a way of life. Creating smiles is their passion and life’s work.

GET YOUR BEST SMILE TODAY!

When it comes to having a beautiful, healthy smile, experience matters. Dr. Patrick Lawrence and Dr. Nicole Cucchi have the skills you want for your best smile ever.

Our practice offers exceptional general, restorative and cosmetic dentistry services, including sameday crowns and Invisalign. Call or

email info@TrueCareDentistryNC. com today. We take pride in providing exceptional dental care for the entire family and always welcome new patients!

Call TrueCare Dentistry today to schedule your next cleaning or talk about cosmetic options for brightening and whitening your smile. Schedule a new patient exam

and receive a complimentary takehome tooth-whitening kit or an Oral B electric toothbrush kit as our gift to you!

“They are absolutely a wonderful dental office. Always professional and nice. Clean, careful, and as gentle as can be.” Mary M.

To learn more about our practice, please visit our website TrueCareDentistryNC.com

AN ORTHODONTIST WHO IS CLEARLY HELPING PATIENTS SMILE

When Dr. Robert B. Nay opened NAY orthodontics in 2013, it was to realize his dream of helping patients improve their smiles. “Moving teeth can transform not just one’s esthetics but overall selfconfidence,” he says. “When the patients are finished, all of their hard work is rewarded in their smile, which says it all, and that’s what I love the most.”

For Dr. Nay, it is the relationship he builds with patients that are paramount to his practice.

“We tend to schedule fewer patients per day so we can focus on not only the treatment but also on building rapport with patients. Patients can expect to come in and feel like they’re part of our family.”

Lately, many of Dr. Nay’s patients have been opting for Invisalign clear aligners over clear braces. “The research and design has refined Invisalign’s ability to better move teeth

with more precision and control.” Among many of the advantages is the ability to improve one’s smile with a clear and practically invisible tray that is removable while eating, brushing, and flossing. Invisalign is less invasive on oral tissues, and patients benefit from longer monthly intervals between appointments.

Dr. Nay welcomes you to come in for a complimentary smile evaluation to see if Invisalign or other orthodontic treatment can improve your smile.

DEDICATED AND EXPERIENCED EYE CARE

Preston Optometry Center, founded in 1995, is the private eye care practice of Dr. Ken Rousselo. In the days of large, impersonal corporate eye care practices, Dr. Rousselo strives to make your experience personable and efficient.

Preston Optometry provides comprehensive vision and eye health exams for the whole family. Having seen onae generation of Cary residents

grow up, Dr. Rousselo is excited to be seeing their children as patients. Our optical department boasts 1,000 unique and attractive eyeglass frames from designers like Kate Spade to Nike. We can also help contact lens wearers find what works best for them.

In addition, we are pleased to give back to the community and the world. We have donated more than 2,000 eye exams and pairs of glasses to individuals in need from Cary to Kenya. Dr. Rousselo helped found an eye-care

clinic at the Durham Rescue Mission, and for more than 10 years, he has volunteered his time, providing free eye exams to those coming to the mission.

Preston Optometry is proud to have the best staff — from front desk, to pretest, to experienced opticians who can help you pick a frame that is perfect for your face and individual sense of style. Our satisfied patients are our best advertisement, and we are grateful for all the five-star reviews we continue to receive from them.

HELPING CARY SEE BETTER SINCE 2008

Cary Family Eye Care has become a vital part of the community since its inception in 2008. Husband and wife optometrists, Drs. Dwight and Kelly Barnes, are committed to providing West Cary with the best eye care. With the landscape of eye care becoming more and more dominated by large commercial entities, Cary Family Eye Care will remain fiercely independent and determined to provide personalized care in a friendly professional environment.

Cary Family Eye Care focuses on preventative care and invests in the

CARY FAMILY EYE CARE

latest technology to provide a more thorough evaluation of eye health than traditional methods. Our Optomap retinal exam allows evaluation of more than 80% of the retina without dilation drops. The iWellness exam detects retinal issues before they are visible with standard examination. The Quantifeye macular pigment test allows us to detect a modifiable risk factor for macular degeneration and lower your risk for future vision loss.

Our optical gallery has a wide variety of carefully selected fun and exciting eyewear to help you see and look your best. We focus on unique independent brands and support small businesses like ourselves. Our optical team has extensive knowledge of the newest lens

technology and will find just the right frames and lenses for you.

Cary Family Eye Care is the Triangle’s leader in myopia (nearsightedness) control. Children who are nearsighted tend to worsen over time. Higher levels of myopia lead to a greater risk of ocular health conditions like retinal detachments. We now have technology to slow the progression of myopia. Dr. Dwight Barnes is a fellow of the Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control, one of fewer than 150 worldwide and the only one in the Triangle.

Our team of caring professionals at Cary Family Eye Care is dedicated to providing a comfortable environment and exceeding your expectations.

YOU DESERVE IT!

AJC Medical is a premier physician led practice that offers a variety of comprehensive aesthetic procedures. Specializing in liposculpture, skin rejuvenation, tightening, resurfacing, laser packages and treatments for erectile dysfunction. Conveniently located close to Cary Crossroads offering evening and weekend appointments. Our team knows results are important and we strive for patient satisfaction. Customer service

is a priority, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve you. Using the newest state of the art equipment to get you results! This allows us to treat a diverse population. We appreciate uniqueness and are here to support your goals. Given our advanced equipment most of our treatments are painless and require no downtime. We respectfully guard your privacy and take our time to treat you with compassion. Striving

to meet exceptional comfort as well as cleanliness. There is an emphasis on walking you through every procedure explaining the process in detail, engaging you in your results with convenient follow ups. Our team focuses on continued training and is always learning new advanced techniques and technologies. It is our privilege to be part of your enhancement journey. We offer competitive pricing but our results are NOT just average.

AWARD-WINNING PLASTIC SURGERY

- SINCE THE VERY BEGINNING

Putting patient safety, satisfaction and beautiful outcomes first has been the herald of CARE Plastic Surgery. Dr. Brian S. Coan, Founder of CARE, is an award-winning, nationally renowned, board certified plastic surgeon.

Recently voted Best Plastic Surgeon again in Cary, Dr. Coan and CARE are no strangers to awards for safety and beautiful aesthetic results. After being featured on the Emmy award winning television program “The Doctors,” and winning Best Plastic Surgeon in Durham,

N.C., for seven consecutive years, CARE moved to a larger facility to meet increasing patient demand. Located in Cary, the CARE office offers two state-of-the-art operating facilities in a contemporary setting. As a destination location for plastic surgery patients, the Cary location offers the convenience of a five-minute drive to the RDU airport and a variety of international restaurants and hotels for out-of-town guests.

Dr. Coan is an MIT graduate who brings his enthusiasm for technology in aesthetics and plastic surgery to CARE by incorporating virtual imaging to help patients visualize potential post-surgical results. CARE’s popular

slogan, “Results so natural we hate calling our surgery plastic,” was coined by a former patient who still raves about her CARE experience.

CARE’s most popular treatments include the lunchtime facelift, Botox & filler injectables, laser treatments, body contouring, liposuction, and plastic surgery of the breast, body and face.

Dr. Coan is also passionate about supporting local education and is active in non-profit and philanthropic endeavors.

When not consulting with patients or in the operating room, Dr. Coan enjoys spending time with his wife and two young daughters.

WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE YOU CAN TRUST

Walking into the waiting room of Triangle Physicians for Women and Triangle Midwifery , you’ll immediately feel the nurturing, welcoming, genuine care that our special team delivers. Our unique practice offers state-of-the-art medical advancements, coupled with highly trained Certified Nurse Midwifery methodologies, to bring you the ultimate in holistic women’s health care in the Triangle.

As women, you’re tasked with busy home and work lives. We know self-care often falls to the bottom of your to-do list. Triangle Physicians for Women optimizes the time you spend with us by providing a one-stop shop where all annual Ob/Gyn and 3D mammography screenings can take place in one place on the same day. Additionally, our innovative health offerings address all gynecological issues, no matter your age or stage in life. We are proud to offer unique services such as MonaLisa Touch (for vaginal dryness), Geneveve (for vaginal laxity) and Cutera truSculptiD (for

the elimination of fat cells) that can transform and rejuvenate your intimate relationship.

Welcome, Dr. Pearce

We are expanding and so excited to welcome our new physician Dr. Kaela Pearce. Dr. Pearce comes to us from the San Antonio Military Medical Center and will begin seeing patients in July 2021 at both our main office in Cary as well as our satellite office in Holly Springs. Visit our website at www. tp4w.com to learn more about Dr. Pearce and our team or call today to book an appointment 919-678-6900.

HELPING YOU LIVE A LONGER, HEALTHIER LIFE

Ashworth Drugs is celebrating 65 years of community pharmacy on the corner in downtown Cary. Pharmacists Cori Strickland and Paul Ashworth have been practicing together at Ashworth’s for more than 30 years, making them the most experienced pharmacist team in the Cary area.

Cori and Paul each received their pharmacy degrees from The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, the #1 ranked pharmacy school in the United States. Their mission is to help you

ASHWORTH DRUGS

understand your medicines; how they work to help you, how to take them appropriately, and how to manage side effects. Proper use of medicines is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself alive and out of the hospital. Put Cori’s and Paul’s expertise to work for you to help you get the most benefit out of your drug therapy. Ashworth’s works with most private insurance and Medicare Part D companies and are preferred providers with many carriers to ensure you get the lowest co-pays possible. In addition, non-covered medicines are heavily discounted, to give you the best value for your dollars spent. The pharmacy also provides free home

delivery of prescriptions to Cary zip codes 27511 and 27513.

In addition to helping you with prescriptions, Ashworth Drugs also has a wide selection of other specialty pharmacy products. They offer medical equipment for sales and rentals, such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches. They also stock bathroom equipment like bedside commodes, raised toilet seats, and shower chairs. Other items include bathroom safety rails and grab bars.

Other unique pharmacy products include specialized wound care dressings, Mueller sports medicine braces and supports, and Therafirm compression hosiery.

EXPECT TO BE TREATED LIKE FAMILY

Taking care of your body pays dividends. Yet, such a simple concept can still feel out of reach. Bridging this gap is where Dr. Dent has excelled sine beginning his private practice over 11 years ago. Working with his patients to understand the nature of their injury first, only then can they work as a team to develop a strategy and solution to meet patient goals. At Doc’s Spine & Sports Medicine, educating patients on the

nature of their injury and informing them on ways to help their body heal is key. Another objective is to helping patients take ownership of their health and lives independently without pain. Minor injuries can have significant consequences and when you’re in pain, your daily life suffers. Dr. Dent understands that and focuses on keeping you in the game for as long as you want to be in it. Everyone that enters his office can expect to be treated like family. His patient testimonials reflect an environment where Dr. Dent focuses on learning about a patient’s injury history, current condition, and future

goals. There is no better satisfaction and joy than the success of seeing his client’s health improve. Dr. Dent originally opened a private practice in Texas, interned at the Dallas VA hospital, was the onsite Chiropractor at Heavenly Hands Birthing Center, and was the Chiropractor for the Collin County Rattlers semi-pro football team. Dr. Dent and his family relocated to the Raleigh area in 2017 upon opening his practice at the Arboretum in Cary. He is boardcertified, specializing in chiropractic and physiotherapy. He resides in New Hill, NC, with his wife Kristi and their three sons, Jack, Carter, and Davis.

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS!

At Cary Car Care we want to know your name! We may not be the neighborhood hangout, but we strive to be a place people know and trust. We’re your local, familyowned and operated, full-service automotive repair shop!

Our team of 15 is dedicated to excellent service and personable care that has made us a pillar in the community for over 30 years.

CARY CAR CARE

Our goal is to provide every client with a transparent and respectful experience from knowing your name when you walk in the door, to easy to read and view repair orders with pictures.

Our process is seamless with multiple communication options, online bill payment, express check in/out and more. Not to mention, we are one of the few ASE certified

shops in Wake County with two Master certified technicians. Plus, we service all makes and models and do all but body work, so you can bring any of your vehicles to our shop. Your family can rest assured that this family-oriented group has you and your vehicles’ best interest at heart!

Give us a call or come on in and visit - we look forward to it!

YOUR HOMETOWN REALTOR®

Tracy Watson is one of the Triangle’s leading Realtors, having been voted Best of Wake County 2019 by Indy Week and WRAL, as well as runner up in 2020. She strives to put her client’s goals at the forefront, working together as a team to reach expectations. Keeping lines of communication open and client stresses to a minimum are

two very important tasks, as moving is stressful enough Tracy wants her clients to focus on their family and the exciting time ahead — not the small details that her team hurdles behind the scenes. With a background in construction, and certified in social media marketing, whether you are selling your home, selling and building/buying, or buying for the

MISSION FIRST REALTY

powered by Keller Williams Platinum

first time, you are in trusted hands. Tracy has an extensive list of trusted vendors to help you well after closing for all things related to your home, from landscapers and pet sitters to remodeling contractors.

If you’re thinking of making a move in and around the Triangle, contact Tracy today to get started. 919-761-0405

Relocating?

Moving to North Carolina Means It’s Time to Update Your Estate Plan

When relocating to a new state, job opportunities, housing, schools, healthcare, crime rates and moving expenses are all typically at the forefront of your mind and at the top of your “To Do” list. All too often, people forget one of the most important parts of the “To Do” list is updating your Estate Planning documents.

Will and Trust Documents

Laws vary from to state to state so it is extremely important to be certain that your Will and other Estate Planning documents are all valid in the state you are moving to. References to the laws of your previous home state can create complications that could require opinions from attorneys in two separate states. For this reason alone, it makes sense contact an attorney and have your Estate Plan reviewed.

State-Level Estate Taxes

Another reason to update your Estate Planning documents is that Estate taxes differ from state to state as well. Estate Planning documents often provide for gifts equal to the amount that can pass free of Estate or other transfer taxes. Depending on the laws of your home state, that amount may change and with it, the amount your Estate pays in taxes and who ultimately benefits from your Estate.

Your Named Executor

Moving to another state can also raise questions for your Executor. Does your named Executor meet the specific qualifications established in your new home state? Take into consideration that your move may also make it inconvenient or impractical and perhaps even costly for your named Executor to serve.

Powers of Attorney and Health Care Directives

Power of Attorney designations and health care directives, such as healthcare proxies and Living Wills, should always be updated after a move so they are consistent with the laws of the new state. While they may remain valid, some institutions may resist or delay the acceptance of documents that do not entirely conform to state statutory requirements or preferences. We advise all clients to have a North Carolina Statutory POA. Do yourself a favor and avoid any possibility of adding extra anxiety and stress especially in an emergency situation.

Irrevocable Trusts, Retirement Plan Beneficiaries, Domicile and Taxes can all also be affected.

McCollum Law is Here to Help

There is always so much to think about when moving whether it is to another town or to another state. At McCollum Law, we can help make this part of your process as easy as possible- from summarizing/ re-vamping your current plan to creating a plan that matches your needs. Contact Us at 919-861-4120 for a Complimentary review of your current documents or for creation of a new Estate Plan.

TOP DENTISTS

TO CREATE OUR 2022 LIST, Cary Magazine partnered with national survey company topDentists LLC, which sent ballots to dentists listed online with the American Dental Association and other local dental societies in Wake County, asking, “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?”

Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies, and physical results. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias, to use only their knowledge of their peers’ work when evaluating the other nominees. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists who they feel should be included in this list.

QUESTIONS?

More information about topDentists’ survey process can be found at usatopdentists.com

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are vetted with the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Of course, there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in North Carolina. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgments of his or her fellow dentists.

ENDODONTICS

Jeri Bills

875 Walnut St., Suite 200, Cary (919) 467-8227 rootcanalsincary.com

Steven W. Campbell Cary Endo 1400 Crescent Green Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 233-8830 caryendo.com

Marcus Curry Lane & Associates Family Dentistry 2613 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 589-0270 lanedds.com/dentist-cary-nc

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Allan M. Acton Cary Family Dental 915 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 238-6014 carydental.com

Michael E. Bass Bass & Watson Family Dental 1031 W. Williams St., Suite 101, Apex (919) 362-6789 bassfamilydentistryapex.com

Jonathan P. Beavers Beavers Family Dentistry

619 W. Chatham St., Apex (919) 362-0967 beaversfamilydentistry.com

Jennifer S. Bell

Signature Family Dentistry 5245 Sunset Lake Road, Holly Springs (919) 355-1170 sfdsmiles.com

Michael K. Bielinski 101 S.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 60, Cary (919) 467-7360 bielinskidds.com

Thomas E. Brooks 1142 Executive Circle, Suite A, Cary (919) 467-9651 steetdds.com

Josiah B. Chen Morrisville Family Dentistry

10290 Chapel Hill Road, Suite 600, Morrisville (919) 469-3669 morrisvillefamilydentistry.com

Nicole Cucchi

Truecare Family Dentistry 431 Keisler Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 859-1330 truecaredentistrync.com

Ashley DeSaix Kildaire Family Dental 3420 Ten-Ten Road, Suite 310, Cary (919) 342-8509 kildairefamilydental.com

Mike P. Hamby Hamby Family Dental Center 7628 Purfoy Road, Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-2431 mikehambydds.com

Ed Howard Lane & Associates Family Dentistry 2613 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 589-0270 lanedds.com/dentist-cary-nc

Blake Jones Royal Oak Dental Group 200 Cornerstone Drive, Suite 200 & 203, Cary (919) 468-4211 royaloakdentalgroup.com

Mark A. Jones Park West Dental 15200 Weston Parkway, Suite 1, Cary (919) 677-0995 parkwestsmiles.com

Darren G. Koch 100 Parkway Office Court, Suite 204, Cary (919) 859-6633 kochdds.com

Patrick A. Lawrence Truecare Family Dentistry 431 Keisler Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 859-1330

truecaredentistrync.com

Siti A. Lowery Lowery Smiles

110 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 104, Cary (919) 468-5501; lowerysmiles.com

Charles Ashley Mann

Charles Ashley Mann, DDS & Associates

315 E. Chatham St., Suite 100, Cary (919) 462-9338 smilemann.com

J. Gregory Mayes

Preston Dental Center 3761 N.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 100, Cary (888) 779-6401

prestondentalcenter.com

Lisa H. Mayes

Preston Dental Center 3761 N.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 100, Cary (888) 779-6401

prestondentalcenter.com

Meenal H. Patel

Preston Dental Loft 1140 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 467-6111

prestondentalloft.com

Michael Riccobene

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry 1000 Crescent Green Drive, Suite 202, Cary (919) 336-5338 brushandfloss.com

Matthew Schmitt

Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry 100 Ridgeview Drive, Suite 103, Cary (919) 467-2203

ssfamilydentistry.com

Sabine E. Schtakleff

Prime Family Dental 1600 Olive Chapel Road, Suite 120, Apex (919) 372-8352

primefamilydentalnc.com

Todd A. Sninski

Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry 100 Ridgeview Drive, Suite 103, Cary (919) 467-2203

ssfamilydentistry.com

Bobbi A. Stanley Stanley Dentistry 3731 N.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 201, Cary (919) 371-4454 stanleysmiles.com

WESTERN WAKE

John Tomasheski

Dorion & Associates 1783 W Williams St., Apex (919) 267-2457

ncimplantcenter.com

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL

William T. Benzing

Nu Image Surgical & Dental Implant Center 3600 N.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 105, Cary (844) 624-6752 ncimplant.com

Francis J. Cusumano Cusumano Oral Surgery & Implant Center 103 Parkway Office Court, Suite 200, Cary (919) 661-1995 wisdomtoothcenter.com

Robert A. Englehardt

Cary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 1010 High House Road, Suite 100, Cary (919) 461-0110 caryoralsurgery.com

Bruce A. Vande Berg

Cary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 1010 High House Road, Suite 100, Cary (919) 461-0110 caryoralsurgery.com

ORTHODONTICS

Edward R. Altherr Altherr Orthodontics 1011 W. Williams St., Suite 101, Apex (919) 363-2221 altherrorthodontics.com

Jesse Arbon

Carolina Orthodontics & Childrens Dentistry 7535 Carpenter Fire Station Road, Suite 201A, Cary (919) 846-7900 mycarolinasmile.com

Christopher L. Baker Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics 2625 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 303-4557 bovbakerortho.com

Todd S. Bovenizer Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics 2625 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 303-4557 bovorthodontics.com

Reid H. Brogden Brogden Orthodontics 103 Parkway Office Court, Suite 204, Cary (919) 858-0078 brogdenbraces.com

Kristen Fritz Fritz Orthodontics 363 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 285-4481 fritzorthodontics.com

Thomas J. Griffin 540 New Waverly Place, Suite 110, Cary (919) 233-0668 griffinbraces.com

Nathan J. Kryn Lane & Associates Family Dentistry 2613 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 589-0270 lanedds.com/dentist-cary-nc

Matthew D. McNutt McNutt Orthodontics 301 Ashville Ave., Suite 101, Cary (919) 887-6350 thetoothmover.com

Robert B. Nay Nay Orthodontics 6406 McCrimmon Parkway, Suite 240, Morrisville (919) 380-9922 nayortho.com

Kelly W. Ritter 103 Parkway Office Court, Suite 204, Cary (919) 858-0078

kellyritterbraces.com

Alena R. Spielberg Spielberg Orthodontics 1600 Olive Chapel Road, Suite 112, Apex (919) 363-6330

spielberg-ortho.com

Mary H. G. Walton Walton, Maready & Goeckner Orthodontics 1505 S.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 207, Cary (919) 249-4900 ; mgortho.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Richard F. Brooks Boooks & Chandak Pediatric Dentistry 120 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 100, Cary (919) 468-9775

pediatricdentistcarync.com

Robert D. Elliott

Cary Pediatric Dentistry

540 New Waverly Place, Suite 300, Cary (919) 852-1322

carypediatricdentistry.com

Jean Guevarra-You Little Tooth Co. 504 W. Williams St., Apex (919) 303-2873 littletoothco.com

Daniel T. Howell 101 S.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 80, Cary (919) 467-0635 carypediatricdentist.com

Julie R. Molina Cary Pediatric Dentistry

540 New Waverly Place, Suite 300, Cary (919) 852-1322 carypediatricdentistry.com

Raymond J. Tseng High House Pediatric Dentistry

351 Wellesley Trade Lane, Suite 212, Cary (919) 267-4211 highhousepedo.com

PERIODONTICS

Michael J. Brenegan Cary Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

1003 High House Road, Suite 102, Cary (919) 469-9986 caryperio.com

Samuel J. DeAngelo 1142 Executive Circle, Suite B, Cary (919) 467-3213 executiveperioofcary.com

Paul C. Kazmer Jr. 3550 N.W. Cary Parkway, Suite 106, Cary (919) 468-6410 kazmerperio.com

Cary Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

1003 High House Road, Suite 102, Cary (919) 469-9986 caryperio.com

Douglas M. Walters Dorion & Associates

1783 W. Williams St., Apex (919) 267-2457; ncimplantcenter.com

PROSTHODONTICS

Brandon D. Kofford

Cary Prosthodontics

1400 Crescent Green, Suite 210, Cary (919) 858-8193

caryprosthodontics.com

Kevin Lim

Cary Prosthodontics

1400 Crescent Green, Suite 210, Cary (919) 858-8193

caryprosthodontics.com

SCHOOLS

Outstanding schools are one of the top reasons people choose to live in Wake County. The Wake County Public School System is one of the best school districts in the country and includes magnet and charter schools that cater to special needs or interests. In addition, Western Wake boasts a number of private schools from preschool to high school.

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

WAKE COUNTY MAGNET SCHOOLS

WCPSS Office of Magnet & Curriculum; 5625 Dillard Drive, Cary; (919) 533-7289

Grades: K-12 wcpss.net/magnet

Focus: Innovative and pioneering programs challenge students to think creatively and analytically to solve problems, while diverse student body populations enable students to learn and see things from a different perspective.

CHARTER SCHOOLS

CARDINAL CHARTER ACADEMY

1020 St. Charles Place, Cary (919) 653-5000

Grades: K-8 cardinalcharter.org

Focus: Cardinal Charter Academy strives to build a student-centered learning environment that is project-based and technology-driven in which students can reach their academic potential.

PEAK CHARTER ACADEMY

1601 Orchard Villas Ave., Apex (919) 377-1552

Grades: K-8 nhaschools.com/schools/peak-charteracademy/en

Focus: Peak Charter’s program is built on the pillars of moral focus, academic excellence, personal responsibility and parental partnerships.

PINE SPRINGS PREPARATORY ACADEMY

220 Rosewood Centre Drive, Holly Springs (919) 439-9448

Grades: K-8 pspa.teamcfa.school

Focus: Pine Springs strives to provide authentic learning experiences in a collaborative, nurturing environment that will build a foundation for students’ success in school, career and in life.

STERLING MONTESSORI ACADEMY

202 Treybrooke Drive, Morrisville (919) 462-8889

Grades: PreK-8 sterlingmontessori.org

Focus: At Sterling, teachers follow students’ individual needs to achieve personal academic excellence and to become life-long learners who respect themselves, others and their environment.

SOUTHERN WAKE ACADEMY

5108 Old Powell Road, Holly Springs (919) 567-9955

Grades: 6-12 swake.org

Focus: Southern Wake uses an integrated, community-based curriculum to sustain a challenging and supportive learning environment for students of all ability levels.

TRIANGLE MATH AND SCIENCE ACADEMY

312 Gregson Drive, Cary (919) 388-0077

Grades: K-12 tmsacademy.org

Focus: TMSA focuses on math, science and technology. Instruction is based on research-based teaching methods, performance-based accountability measures and dedicated leadership.

PRIVATE SCHOOLS

CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL

1401 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh; (919) 834-1625

Grades: 9-12 cghsnc.org

Focus: A college preparatory school that embraces critical thinking, creativity and collaboration in a caring Catholic community. students are challenged to develop to their full potential as independent thinkers, conscientious citizens and lifelong learners.

CARY ACADEMY

1500 N. Harrison Ave., Cary (919) 677-3873

Grades: 6-12 caryacademy.org

Dave Davies

Wake County Public Schools

Focus: A nonsectarian, college preparatory school that integrates a traditional education with emerging technologies. “We are a learning community committed to discovery, innovation, collaboration and excellence.”

CARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

1330 Old Apex Road, Cary (919) 303-2560

Grades: K-12 carychristianschool.org

Focus: Cary Christian School provides a classical Christian education, an integrated approach to learning which complements students’ natural learning stages while infusing academics with a biblical perspective.

GRACE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

1101 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh (919) 747-2020

Grades: K-6

801 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh (919) 747-2020

Grades: 7-12 gracechristian.net

Focus: The school’s academic, fine arts, athletic and social programs are designed to challenge and inspire students to develop their God-given gifts and talents as they grow and learn.

HEARTWOOD MONTESSORI SCHOOL

112 Byrum St., Cary (919) 465-2113

Grades: 18 months-12 heartwoodmontessori.com

Focus: Heartwood Montessori School is a child-centered community that focuses on providing an excellent, whole-child, Montessori education.

HILLTOP CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

10212 Fayetteville St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-5612

Grades: K-12 hilltopchristianschool.com

Focus: Hilltop aims to provide academic excellence through a biblical worldview and to develop students in a loving, safe, nurturing and structured environment.

HOPEWELL ACADEMY

101 Preston Executive Drive, Cary (919) 481-2123

Grades: 6-12 hopewellacademy.org

Focus: An international, global, learning community with small classes and personalized attention that help students become confident and responsible learners in a university preparatory environment.

JORDAN LAKE SCHOOL OF THE ARTS

1434 Farrington Road, Apex (919) 387-9440

Grades: K-12 jordanlakesa.org

Focus: Provides a progressive approach to education with a strong core curriculum while exploring nature and the arts.

MARIPOSA SCHOOL FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

203 Gregson Drive, Cary (919) 461-0600

Grades: 18 months-21 years mariposaschool.org

Focus: The Mariposa School strives to be a regional leader in providing education and therapeutic services to children with autism and other developmental disabilities.

NEW SCHOOL MONTESSORI CENTER

5617 Sunset Lake Road, Holly Springs (919) 303-3636

Grades: Infants-8 montessoricenter.org

Focus: An independent Montessori school that fosters a joy of learning, independence, confidence and creativity in each student with the goal of preparing them for a 21st-century globalized world.

PEACE MONTESSORI

2190 N. Salem St., Apex (919) 363-2461

Grades: 2-12 years old peacemontessorischool.com

Focus: Peace Montessori aims to create a carefully prepared environment that enables children to freely interact, reach their academic potential and grow in peaceful harmony with their friends, family and society.

WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

With 161,800 students enrolled in 194 schools as of the 2021-22 school year, the Wake County Public School System is the largest public school district in North Carolina and the 15th largest district in the United States.

10,899 classroom teachers

37.5 percent of teachers have advanced degrees

1,761 National Board-certified teachers, more than any other district in the U.S.

90.8% High school graduation rate for 2020, the most recent figure available

AWARDS: Forty-five magnet schools won national merit awards in the 2021-22 school year, with eight schools being named Schools of Excellence and 37 named Schools of Distinction.

These schools are judged and scored on their demonstrated ability to raise student academic achievement, promote racial and socioeconomic diversity, provide integrated curricula and instruction, and create strong family and community partnerships that enhance the school’s magnet theme.

For more information about the Wake County magnet school program, including the application process and important dates, visit wcpss.net/domain/90.

RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

2110 Trawick Road, Raleigh (919) 872-2215

Grades: Preschool-12 raleighchristian.com

Focus: Students at Raleigh Christian Academy receive a wholesome, well-rounded education designed to help them build strong character, to develop physically, emotionally and spiritually.

RAVENSCROFT

7409 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh; (919) 848-6470

Grades: Pre-K-12 why.ravenscroft.org

Focus: Ravenscroft is an independent, coeducational college preparatory day school that pairs leadership learning with hands-on learning and a stimulating curriculum.

RESURRECTION LUTHERAN SCHOOL

100 Lochmere Drive, Cary; (919) 851-7270

Grades: K-8 rlscary.org

Focus: The school offers a Christ-centered, academically challenging and dually accredited educational alternative for families living in Wake County.

ST. MARY MAGDALENE CATHOLIC SCHOOL

625 Magdala Place, Apex (919) 657-4800

Grades: PreK-8 school.stmm.net

Focus: St. Mary Magdalene combines academically challenging instruction with a foundation of spiritual values.

ST. MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL CATHOLIC SCHOOL

804 High House Road, Cary (919) 468-6150

Grades: PreK8 stmcary.org

Focus: St. Michael’s provides a Christ-centered Catholic education, with a focus on academic excellence, and development of each individual.

THALES ACADEMY

1177 Ambergate Station, Apex; (919) 303-3108; Grades: PreK-5

1300 N Salem St., Apex; (919) 629-4200; Grades: 6-12 thalesacademy.org

Focus: Thales’ mission is to provide an excellent and affordable education for students in Pre-K to 12th grades through the use of direct instruction and a classical curriculum.

PRESCHOOLS

CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY

130 Towne Village Drive, Cary (877) 959-4181;

Grades: 3 years-5 chesterbrookacademy.com

Focus: Beyond the core subjects, classes in art, music, technology, Spanish and physical education are essential to educating the whole child. Our curriculum is founded on rich and challenging content that engages students and inspires them to develop a love of learning.

THE GODDARD SCHOOL

1177 NW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 466-0008

4027 Davis Drive, Morrisville; (919) 467-0467

903 Olive Chapel Road, Apex; (919) 362-3999

655 Old Honeycutt Road, Fuquay-Varina

(919) 552-8359

801 Earp St., Holly Springs; (919) 552-3196

Grades: Infant - PreK goddardschool.com

Focus: The Goddard School uses the most current, academically endorsed methods to ensure that children have fun while learning the skills they need for long-term success in school and in life.

MORRISVILLE SQUARE CREATIVE SCHOOL

201 Morrisville Square Way, Morrisville (919) 460-6449

Grades: Infant - PreK creativeschools.com

Focus: Through a balance of child-initiated and teacher-directed activities, we strive to enrich a child’s social, emotional, intellectual and physical development.

PRESTON CHILDREN’S ACADEMY

551 James Jackson Ave., Cary (919) 297-0007

Grades: Infant - PreK prestonacademy.com

Focus: We are committed to ensuring your child’s success and developmental growth by providing a nurturing, caring environment for your child as they grow.

PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF CARY

1500 Evans Road, Cary (919) 481-3901

PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF WEST CARY 2511 NC 55, Cary

(919) 363-2700

PRIMROSE SCHOOL AT THE PARK

131 Lattner Court, Morrisville (919) 468-8880

PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF APEX

1710 Laura Duncan Road, Apex (919) 339-3874

PRIMROSE SCHOOL AT WEST LAKE

4501 West Lake Road, Apex (919) 662-1322

PRIMROSE SCHOOL AT HOLLY GROVE

1530 Avent Ferry Road, Holly Springs (919) 567-1114

Grades: Infant - PreK

PrimroseSchools.com

Focus: Primrose is a national family of dedicated leaders serving children, families and communities in our premier accredited early education and care schools.

RENAISSANCE MONTESSORI

610 Nottingham Drive, Cary (919) 439-0130

Grades: 18 months-6 years renaissancescholars.com

Focus: Renaissance Montessori teaches universal values and instills a global perspective and responsible citizenship. Our aim is to help develop young people who are lifelong learners, critical thinkers and active leaders.

Dave Davies

Primrose School

SHOPPING GUIDE

From small-town boutiques to national retail giants, Western Wake has a shopping experience to suit everyone. For convenience and selection, check out these local malls and business districts.

CARY

ALSTON TOWN CENTER

Whole Foods Market, La Farm Bakery and a dozen other businesses serve West Cary residents.

5000 NC-55 (919) 821-2700

shopalstontowncenter.com

THE ARBORETUM AT WESTON

High-end apartments overlook a mix of restaurants, boutiques and small businesses. 2025 Renaissance Park Place (919) 677-3845 thearboretumatweston.com

BRADFORD SHOPS

Part of the busy retail center at Davis Drive and High House Road, this center has a Publix supermarket and other amenities catering to nearby residents.

20000 Bradford Green Square (919) 674-3687 bradfordshops.com

CARY VILLAGE SQUARE

Head to Banana Leaf for some of the best Chinese food in Cary. 657 Cary Towne Blvd.

CHATHAM SQUARE

A visit to this strip mall is like taking a trip around the world without leaving Cary. Highlights include Mithai Indian Café, the Patel Brothers grocery store, Baghdad Bakery and the Tibetan Himalayan Gift Shop. 744 East Chatham St.

CROSSROADS PLAZA

Familiar stores like Stein Mart, Michaels, Old Navy and ULTA are clustered conveniently, but wear your walking shoes to explore the spread-out center.

213 Crossroads Blvd. (704) 362-6120 shopcrossroadsplaza.com

DOWNTOWN CARY

A great way to spend a Saturday morning is visiting the Cary Farmers Market and strolling along Chatham or Academy Street. When you tire of the restaurants and shops, sit a spell at the Downtown Park.

HARRISON SQUARE

Bass Pro Shops lures outdoor enthusiasts from all over the Triangle, and kids of all ages enjoy the giant fish tank. 1805 N. Harrison Ave., (919) 401-5500 harrisonsquareshoppingcenter.com

MACGREGOR VILLAGE

Destination restaurants at this outdoor center include Cilantro Indian Café, Jimmy V’s Steakhouse and the MacGregor Draft House. 107 Edinburgh South Drive (800) 759-2020; macgregorvillage.com

NORTHWOODS SHOPPING CENTER

An older plaza with pint-sized Walmart and lots of hidden gems, including Alex & Teresa’s Pizzeria & Trattoria, the Cary Quilting Company and Cat Angels Pet Adoptions.

973 N Harrison Ave

PARKSIDE TOWN COMMONS

Located in rapidly growing West Cary, this large shopping center has businesses from Autumn & Avery boutique to Zaniac Learning.

7119 O’Kelly Chapel Road (919) 337-0651 parksidetowncommons.com

PRESTON CORNERS SHOPPING CENTER

This shopping district straddles N.W. Cary Parkway, with Lowes Foods on one side and La Farm Bakery and Mellow Mushroom on the other.

994 High House Road, (919) 831-8200

SALTBOX VILLAGE

Anchored by Town and Country Hardware, this retail center also features The Butcher’s Market and Buffalo Brothers Pizza & Wings.

1241 Kildaire Farm Road

SHOPPES OF KILDAIRE

Staples and Trader Joe’s are the main attractions to this busy center. If you’re feeling peckish, pop into Sassool or Yuri Japanese.

1394 Kildaire Farm Road

(919) 831-4900

STONE CREEK VILLAGE

Part of the busy retail hub at Davis Drive and High House Road, this center boasts a Harris Teeter and the award-winning Preston Flowers among its nearly three dozen shops. stonecreekvillagecary.com

WAVERLY PLACE SHOPPING CENTER

With two levels of shopping, plentiful patio dining and a playground for the littles, this rejuvenated center is a great place to spend a summer evening.

307 Colonades Way (704) 365-0820

waverlycary.com

Shop looks like this ensemble from Swagger Boutique in Cary.

APEX

BEAVER CREEK COMMONS/CROSSINGS

These two shopping centers comprise a major shopping area anchored by A.C. Moore, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Lowe’s, Target and T.J. Maxx. 1581 Beaver Creek Commons Drive ddr.com/properties/A20139

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN APEX

Stroll along Salem Street to find boutiques, restaurants and other unique businesses. Pop into Buttercream’s Bakeshop or FRESH. Local Ice Cream for a treat, and don’t miss nationally known jewelry-maker Moon & Lola. apexdowntown.com

VINEYARD STATION

Anchored by Food Lion, this retail center also contains the Guardian Angel Thrift Store and Mamma Mia! Pasta & Pizza. 620 Laura Duncan Road vineyardstation.com; (919) 303-2117

MORRISVILLE

GRACE PARK

This mixed-use development has many shops serving nearby residents and restaurants including Mi Cancun, a local favorite. 3109 Grace Park Drive; graceparknc.com

MORRISVILLE STATION

Neomonde Bakery and Café is the most well-known of the center’s businesses. 10235 Chapel Hill Road

PARK WEST VILLAGE

The 100-acre mixed-use development includes major retailers like Target, BuyBuy Baby and PetSmart. When the weather permits, come out for the free concerts and community events. Village Market Place (919) 467-8880; parkwestvillage.net

HOLLY SPRINGS

HOLLY SPRINGS TOWNE CENTER

Dominated by big-box stores, this center also boasts local favorites like Rise Southern Biscuits and the Mason Jar Tavern. NC-55 and New Hill Road (888) 577-5600; shophollyspringstc.com

SOUTHPARK VILLAGE

Several fast-food restaurants, a Harris Teeter, the Hickory Tavern and the Holly Springs DMV are located in this retail center. N.C. 55 Bypass and Avent Ferry Road

SUNSET LAKE COMMONS

A Harris Teeter anchors this retail center, which also includes The Butcher’s Market, Aqua Tots Swim School and the Triangle Wine Company. 5277 Sunset Lake Road

FUQUAY-VARINA

HILLTOP SHOPPING CENTER

Anchored by Food Lion, Hilltop Shopping Center offers customers convenient dining options and a veterinarian’s office. 3417 N. Main St. (919) 847-2400; hilltopcrossings.com

DOWNTOWN FUQUAY-VARINA

In two business districts, you’ll find a unique and eclectic mix of restaurants and merchants. Don’t miss Ashworth’s Clothing & Shoes, Cousin Couture, the Mason Jar Tavern and Aviator Smokehouse. fuquay-varina.org/919/Downtown

VIEW FROM HERE

by Jonathan Fredin

Heron hideaway

A great blue heron silhouette in a fog-shrouded scene on the Neuse River in Raleigh.

Find Your Way to Corolla, NC

This year, many families are simply planning to come together here. It is nice to know that the legendary Corolla Wild Horses, awe-inspiring remote beaches, iconic historical sites and the finest accommodations await you less than a day’s drive away, in Corolla.