LookWest 2023-2024

LOOKWEST

WESTERN WAKEA Bird’s-Eye View

A VIBRANT MODERN MEXICAN DINING EXPERIENCE.

The vision of “Top Chef ” alum Katsuji Tanabe, he brings his Mexican heritage and adds a selection of over 140 tequilas, mezcal, cocktail towers, and edgy cocktails to this menu of modern Mexican dishes.

Our award-winning menu intentionally emphasizes the goodness of NC’s best seasonal ingredients or the lastest culinary movement, all with gluten-friendly, dairy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

LUNCH & DINNER

10:30 am - 4:00 pm AWARDS

Served Daily

WEEKEND BRUNCH

2300 Walnut Street

Cary, NC 27518

• 984.200.3469 AVERDECARY.COM

Photos: FMasonMedia

Photos: Chelsea Santos

DISCOVER new talents & new friends

On any given day, you’ll find a range of options to fuel your passions, meet new friends and enjoy a lifestyle rich with interesting and exciting educational and engaging programs. Learn more about senior living at TheTempletonOfCary.com or schedule a visit at 984.230.4595 INDEPENDENT

LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING

© 2023 The Templeton of Cary

North Carolina’s Research Triangle is a one-of-a-kind area to call home. Right in the heart of Cary, fascinating folks from all walks of life are coming to Searstone to create a retirement living experience like nowhere else in the world.

Renovations to our beautiful Winston Clubhouse will reshape gathering spaces and introduce innovative design to our wide range of existing amenities. Plus, The Highview at Searstone — our upcoming four-story expansion featuring dozens of new amenities, including three unique dining venues — is 100% reserved and scheduled to open in 2024.

By placing a refundable deposit, along with an application fee, you’ll secure your spot on our single Wait List should a residence become available either in The Highview or across our campus.

Ready for the best decision you’ll make all day? Schedule your personal appointment. To learn more, call 919.897.7471 or visit searstone.com.

RETIREMENT LIVING with INTEREST

searstone.com

17001 SEARSTONE DRIVE, CARY, NC 27513

Recipe for Better Health

A dash of caring. Ample amounts of compassion. A pinch of virtual visits. Season with online appointments and mix with 919-350-9100. Add experience, expertise and primary care practices just about everywhere. And you have the highest quality primary care for you and your family. Care that’s as accessible as it is convenient. Served up as only the nurses and providers at WakeMed can. Learn more at wakemed.org/primary-care. Because, when it comes to the health of your family, only the nest ingredients will do.

INGREDIENTS

• Adult & Family Medicine

• Physical Exams & Medicare Annual Wellness Visits

• Tobacco Cessation Program

• Behavioral Health Services

• Chronic Disease Management

• Dermatology

• Preventive Medicine & Wellness

• Weight Management

• Women’s Health

• Vaccines

EDITOR’S LETTER

Welcome to the wonderful world of Western Wake! Whether you are new to the area or a longtime resident, there is no shortage of things to explore in the area, both new and old. Take a journey with me to some of my favorite local finds in the pages of this relocation guide (listed in no particular order — I love them all equally)!

Rush Hour Karting and Urban Air Adventure Park. Whether you are into zooming around a track or soaring through the air, these new spots in town offer all the thrills you could want. I tried indoor sky diving at Urban Air, and the experience was AH-MAZING! Do I wish I could flip and fly around in the sky diving tunnel like the instructor? Obviously, but I shall leave that to the pros.

Fenton. A one-stop shop for fun, Fenton is a beautiful spot to spend a day. Enjoy shopping, dining, free events, and hanging out on the square. End the day with a movie, a rooftop bar, or a ride on the mechanical bull at PBR!

The Soccer Tournament. This annual event was held in June this year, and I had the pleasure of sitting field side and hanging out with the West Ham United Football Club (I’d call it soccer, but I’ve seen these guys in person, and I’d rather not throw hands). It was an exciting day watching two teams battle it out for the million-dollar prize. I’ve always loved a good championship celebration, but witnessing the Newtown Pride Football Club celebration was incredible! Cary is becoming the amateur sports capital of North Carolina, and I’m here for it!

Peck & Plume at The Mayton. Not to play favorites, but Chef Jason Daniels’ menu is truly a treat to your taste buds. I recommend going for brunch and getting the red eye barbecue gravy shrimp and grits then finishing the meal off by splitting the French toast brick with a friend (or just eat it yourself — no judgment here!).

Koka Booth Amphitheatre. A favorite of mine for years, I have always loved going to concerts at Koka Booth. The venue is so intimate, there really isn’t a bad seat in the house. Last year I finally had the chance to attend the Chinese Lantern Festival, an awe-inspiring event featuring glowing, silken works of art. It was magical! As the perfect destination for festivals and spectacular fireworks shows, Koka Booth Amphitheatre is always worth a visit, year-round!

I hope you find something within this letter and these pages to add to your bucket list — life is not meant to be lived in one place! Western Wake is packed with fabulous food, adventure, shopping, and people loving life, so go out and find your happy place!

Thanks for reading!

Lauren Morris Managing Editor & Creative Director

Arlem Mora

Arlem Mora

Indoor Skydiving at Urban Air Adventure Park in Morrisville

Hanging with the boys from West Ham United Football Club at The Soccer Tournament in Cary.

ANNUAL EVENTS

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

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

JANUARY

MLK 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

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 Ting Stadium in Holly Springs. hollyspringsnc.us/360/spring-fling

SPRING DAZE ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

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. carync.gov/springdaze

MAY

ARTSPLOSURE –

THE RALEIGH ARTS FESTIVAL

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

Daze

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

WILD ABOUT NATURE

Discover and play alongside animals from around the world and learn about conservation efforts from experts and local leaders at Sugg Farm Park in Holly Springs. hollyspringsnc. gov/361/Wild-About-Nature

WHEELS ON ACADEMY

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

Spring

Arts & Crafts Festival, Cary

Sushi Suyu, Apex

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

FIREWORKS FRENZY

Celebrate Independence Day early with music, food trucks, bounce houses, and a fireworks display over Hunter Street Park in downtown Apex. apexnc.org/532/Fourth-ofJuly-Celebrations

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. carync.gov/ 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 two days of concerts featuring 100-plus artists and eight stages in downtown Raleigh. worldofbluegrass.org

OCTOBER

CARY DIWALI

Also known as The Festival of Lights, Diwali encourages artistic expression through vibrant performances, unique exhibits, and colorful decorations. carync.gov/diwali

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 Diwali

Peak City Pig Fest, Apex

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; carync.gov

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 W. 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 a decorated 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/date-specific-tickets

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/tree-lighting

Cary Kwanzaa Celebration

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. carync.gov/heartoftheholidays

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. carync.gov/kwanzaa

FIRST NIGHT RALEIGH

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

Best place to bank.

In North Carolina, we have a “best of” list for everything. For hikes, many say it’s Black Balsam Knob near Asheville. For barbecue, people love Prime Barbecue in Knightdale. For credit unions, Forbes Magazine says it’s us. Experience why at bankbetter.org. Best hike. Best barbecue.

• BODY SKIN TIGHTENING • VAGINAL REVITALIZATION • SNORING TREATMENT

• ACNE & SCAR REVISION • LASER HAIR REMOVAL • URINARY INCONTINENCE

• COSMETIC INJECTIONS • FOTONA 4D FACE LIFT

• MEDICAL GRADE SKIN CARE

• NAIL FUNGUS • SCARS AND STRETCH MARKS • EYE REJUVENATION

• BODY CONTOURING • CELLULITE REDUCTION • LIP TREATMENTS • RESURFACING

• FACIAL SKIN TIGHTENING AND FACE REJUVENATION • HAIR RESTORATION • VEIN TREATMENTS

cary

PLACES PRIORITY ON QUALITY OF LIFE

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.

attractions

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.

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 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.

The Koka Booth Amphitheatre 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.

Downtown Cary Park, the result of nearly 20 years of dreaming and planning, will be complete this year!

This iconic public space will be a catalyst for future development of downtown, and a regional destination for central North Carolina. downtowncarypark.com

Cary

Page-Walker House

Bond Lake Spring Daze Arts and Crafts Festival

DISCOVER WHY IT’S KNOWN AS “THE PEAK OF GOOD LIVING” apex

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

Cary

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 jewelry making, 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 Festival 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.

Pleasant Park is set to open this summer! 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

Downtown Apex Greenway Davis Drive Park

morrisville LIVE CONNECTED, LIVE WELL IN attractions

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

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. 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.

The renovated Morrisville Aquatics and Fitness Center offers a six-lane lap pool, a recreation pool, and a zero-depth 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

Western Wake Competition Center

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.

GROWTH AND THE GOOD LIFE IN attractions

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

Holly Springs Cultural Center

Dog Park at Sugg Farm

HollyFest

Bass Lake Park

fuquay varina A DASH MORE IN

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 totaling 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

Willow Oak Farms

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 ... great schools, a wide variety of housing options, 20 parks, a thriving social scene, and much more!

TownofFuquayVarina

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Making outside plans in NC is not always easy, no matter what the season. Whether it’s soul-sucking humidity, unexpected afternoon thunderstorms, or freezing rain, anxious locals often have to tentatively schedule events with their fingers crossed firmly behind their back (or with a solid “plan B” in place). Thankfully, plenty of local adventures await rain or shine (no emergency umbrella needed).

Adventure Awaits

(AROUND THE CORNER)

Instructor Jet Thornton experiences the rush of free fall at Urban Air Adventure Park. Indoor skydiving provides all the thrills without the risk!

Urban Air Adventure Park

YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW IT’S THERE, but Urban Air Adventure Park located in Morrisville, inside the Wake Competition Center — officially opened its doors on April 1. Owned by Michael Villopoto and his business partner, German Garcia-Fresco, Urban Air provides a safe place for families to jump, soar, race, climb, and play.

“I have been in the hospitality industry most of my life, owning restaurants and recreational parks for over 30 years,” said Villopoto, who started Amante Pizza in 1990 in Carrboro and expanded to six locations over the years. “After a divorce in 2005, I decided to diversify outside the restaurant industry and sold several of my pizza restaurants to get involved in other businesses.”

In 2008, Villopoto and his business partner, Garcia-Fresco, decided to open a paintball field called Xtreme Kombat, which evolved over time to become Xtreme Park Adventures in Durham. Always looking to diversify, Villopoto and Garcia-Fresco continued to add attractions to Xtreme Park Adventures

but their quest to bring fun to the Triangle didn’t end there. In 2017, after hearing about a Texas-based indoor recreational company called Urban Air, the pair decided to open a location in Morrisville — convenient for residents throughout the Triangle.

“We wanted this Urban Air to offer as much as possible, so we added everything they had to offer — including being the Triangle’s first indoor skydiving facility,” said Villopoto. “We added all the extras like Spin Zone bumper cars, virtual reality, a Snapology lab, and Urban Air’s newest attraction, a Drop Zone tower. We are also the first Urban Air in the country to offer a Glamour Salon where guests can get a manicure or pedicure and have a princess birthday party! And being in the pizza business for 30 years, I was allowed to offer Amante pizza in the restaurant instead of the typical Urban Air food.”

The best thing about Urban Air Adventure Park? It’s for everyone, regardless of age, and there’s PLENTY to do — from skydiving, a ropes course, climbing walls, bumper cars, trampolines, virtual reality, dodgeball, a slam dunk zone, and much more. Urban Air is also a fantastic destination for birthday parties.

“We have 14 birthday party rooms for groups of 10 or 40,” said Garcia-Fresco. “Our favorite rooms are the Glamour Salon princess rooms, where girls can celebrate their birthdays, get their nails done and a facial, and then play! Or

come on a Wednesday and have a mommy-daughter spa day. Finally, we have a STEAM room for science and engineering called Snapology, where kids can come and learn about programming, building, and more. We offer after-school programs and summer camps as well!”

Whether you’re there for a party or as a fun way to beat the heat, Urban Air is there to make sure your dreams take flight. Remember — if you don’t jump, you’ll never fly!

urbanair.com/north-carolina-morrisville/

Have a flipping good time on one of Urban Air's indoor trampolines.

ABOVE: Test your speed, strength, and agility at Urban Air — with a ball pit to cushion your falls!

LEFT: Take your fun to new heights on Urban Air’s Sky Rider.

There are bumper cars, and then there are SPIN ZONE bumper cars. Hit and runs have never been so fun!

Sports & Social, PBR Cowboy Bar, AVA Rooftop Bar

TREAT YOURSELF TO A TRIFECTA OF GOOD TIMES at Sports & Social, PBR Cowboy Bar, and AVA Rooftop Bar — all owned by Live! Hospitality & Entertainment and located in the same building at Fenton, an upscale mixed-use development in the heart of Cary.

With 11 current locations and 3 more openings planned, Sports & Social combines

the traditional elements of a sports tavern with classic games and live entertainment.

“We opened in early February, just before the Super Bowl, in order to show off our 42-foot HD media wall and solidify our position as the premier sports watch location,” said Emily Almond, director of marketing. “Sports & Social offers fans an immersive sports entertainment atmosphere with the next-best game-watching experience outside of a stadium or arena. We have fan cams. We have live entertainment. We have games. We also host large-scale events that create additional enter-

tainment experiences for guests, including themed Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween, and more events!”

Open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 a.m. to midnight and Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m., Sports & Social is the perfect go-to for late-night entertainment — from watching the game to playing Skee-Ball, hoops, and shuffleboard.

“We also have a James Beard-nominated chef that has curated our entire menu,” added Almond.

Menu highlights include the quesabirria egg rolls, truffle mushroom flatbread, Nashville hot chicken sandwich, Southwest bowl, and beef barbacoa tacos — as well as a variety of signature Crush drinks, including the Orange Crush, Tequila Crush, and Paloma Crush.

“Sports & Social is for everyone,” said Almond. “Sports fans, families, men and/or women of all ages. Our goal is to make this a space where people want to spend time with their friends and family.”

sportsandsocial.com/cary/

IF YOU WANT TO PUT THE WILD IN WILD, WILD WEST,

grab some friends and head to PBR Cowboy Bar, located in the same building as Sports & Social.

“PBR Cowboy Bar is a partnership with Professional Bull Riders that fuses the spirit of independence with first-class hospitality, bringing an authentic country

Raising the (sports) bar: Sports & Social is a fan's paradise, offering a 42-foot HD media wall for the ultimate game experience.

Take a ride on PBR's professionally endorsed mechanical riding bull.

Western experience to the Triangle,” said Almond. “PBR Cary features the only professionally endorsed mechanical riding bull, as well as multiple signature bars, private VIP booths, and 1,300 square feet of outdoor patio space. We opened in early February and have been riding the wave ever since.”

The perfect venue for a fun night out, PBR’s bull riding, line dancing, and live music can get a little rowdy — but cowboys aren’t known for their pretty manners! Customers are invited to let their hair down and experience premier nightlife without ever leaving town.

“We offer line dancing classes every

other week and live music every Friday and Saturday from 6 to 8 p.m.,” said Almond. “PBR also hosts Freedom Friday on the first Friday of every month, Buckin’ Birthdays on the second Friday of each month, and a monthly mayhem themed party on the third Friday of each month.”

pbrcowboybar.com/cary/

FAR LEFT: Sports & Social, PBR Cowboy Bar, and AVA Rooftop Bar are all located in the same building — your one-stop shop for fun!

LEFT: PBR offers 1,300 square feet of outdoor patio space, perfect for warm summer nights.

LOOKING FOR A CALMER VIBE?

Visit the AVA Rooftop Bar, carefully curated to bring an elevated rooftop experience to Cary. Situated on top of Sports & Social,

a short ride up the elevator will transport you from the world of sports and cowboys to lush greenery, lounge-style seating, and Mediterranean-inspired small plates, wine, and cocktails.

“AVA Rooftop Bar is a rooftop oasis great for date nights, girl time, and gathering with friends,” said Almond. “We host a sunset toast every night and have monthly experiences like sunset yoga. DJs, live entertainment, and Instagrammable moments make this the place to be.”

Whether you’re on a date night or enjoying some much-needed cocktails with coworkers, AVA Rooftop is a perfect relaxing oasis with a delicious curated food and drink menu. Highlights include the mezze platter, cauliflower tabbouleh, grilled lemon chicken, grilled merguez, and grilled shrimp skewers. For drinks, try the Aqua de Valencia, Watermelon Spritz, or the AVA Margarita — perfect for cooling down on a hot summer’s day.

avarooftopbar.com

TOP: Bring your friends and experience a sunset toast at AVA Rooftop Bar.

ABOVE: AVA Rooftop Bar offers the perfect space to wind down with friends and coworkers over drinks and Mediterranean bites.

RUSH HOUR KARTING

WITH A NEW LOCATION right next door to Urban Air Adventure Park, Rush Hour Karting — owned by Adam and Tamer Saad — has everything you need to fuel your need for speed.

“We finally opened up a second location in Morrisville (we actually call it RTP), which is night and day different from the track in Garner,” said Adam Saad. “Where Garner has gas go-karts, RTP has electric karts that drive completely differently. It is nice to experience the difference! Also, RTP is a multi-level track, where Garner is a longer, single-level track. Since the karts are electric in RTP, there is no noise or fumes

that can bother some people, and the whole facility is climate controlled.”

For companies looking for great teambuilding opportunities, Rush Hour’s RTP location is top-notch, offering a giant meeting room that can hold up to 300 people and a smaller board room equipped with golfing simulators (because why not?). In addition to the racing, Rush Hour provides a giant 34-passenger luxury bus to pick up and drop off corporate clients.

“We offer many entertainment activities — from karting, to axe throwing, to golf sims,” said Saad. “We even have five racing simulators, which are the real deal — com-

pletely motion-activated seating and three screens make you feel as if you are in a real F1 race car! We can cater an amazing meal, including cocktails, beer, and wine. There is a great restaurant/sports bar in both locations, where everything is made from scratch. We even make our own dough and pizza sauce for the pizzas! Best in town!”

With a mezzanine overlooking the whole track for a bird’s-eye view, don’t forget to bring your camera (and your A-game, for bragging rights). Whether you’re new to the track or a serious racing enthusiast, it’s time to hop in for the ride. t

rushhourkarting.com

At Rush Hour Karting, crew members work to ensure that every driver has a fun (and safe) experience.

An electric go-kart races (quietly) around the track at Rush Hour’s RTP Morrisville location.

Apex Eye Associates | Ophthalmology Clinic

919-568-1782

| Fax: 571-543-0127

300 Ashville Ave, Suite 280, Cary, NC 27518 www.apexeyenc.com

Conveniently located to serve both Cary and Apex, Apex Eye Associates is now accepting new patients. With board-certified ophthalmologists Dr. Jonathan Feng and Dr. Erin Petersen, our clinic provides urgent and comprehensive eye exams along with surgical expertise in cataracts and glaucoma. Experience the latest in dropless dry eye and aesthetic services with Lumenis OptiLight. Enjoy flexible scheduling options, including same-day visits. Plus, our clinic is in-network with most major insurances, making quality eye care accessible.

CARY Downtown Farmers Market

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRYAN REGAN

When visiting the Cary Downtown Farmers Market (CDFM), it’s easy to forget that our not-so-little corner of Wake County has a population of over 176,000 people.

“Cary feels like a small town when you come to the farmers market,” said Market Manager Brett Pinsent. “I see our regulars that I know by name every week, waiting in line for those fruits and vegetables. I see the relationships that are being built every week just by them standing and talking and sharing coffee while they’re waiting. As much as I absolutely love the food, I think the sense of community is equally as important.”

CDFM, which began in 1996, meets rain or shine every Saturday and welcomes farmers and artisans who live and grow or raise their products within a 100-mile radius of downtown Cary. The winter Market runs November through March from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by the Traditional Market from April to October, 8 a.m. to noon. Currently, the market meets in the side parking lot of The Perfect Piece, located at 200 E. Chatham St. in Downtown Cary.

Unlike the State Farmers Market, CDFM does not allow any resale, meaning all vendors and farmers must bring only what they grew, made, or produced themselves. As a result, you will never find any vegetables out of season.

After years of working in the restaurant industry, Chef Mitch Samples, board vice president, relies on the market’s season-sensitive offerings to provide accessible recipes to the community every other week via CDFM’s Chef’s Corner. Patrons are encouraged to stop by his table and taste the dishes he’s created and ask him a question (or three). All of Samples’ recipes are available on the Cary Downtown Farmers Market website.

“I started doing the Chef’s Corner and doing little demos,” said Samples. “We like to keep it accessible — recipes that are produced with items that are available at the market, in season that week, to kind of illustrate seasonality. This is not time for me to show off and say look what kind of fancy stuff I can do after a career in cooking. I do like to put them a little outside of the box so they’re interesting, but they’re all easily creatable at home.”

At the Cary Downtown Farmers Market, farm-fresh carrots, nestled alongside green onions, are some of the best you'll ever taste.

At the market, vegetable offerings are based on seasonality. Radishes, for example, can be harvested in NC from late September until the first frost and early April to early June.

"The product is far better; it’s superior to almost all your grocery store food. Case in point, tomatoes. Even our market tomatoes in December are better than grocery store tomatoes in July," said Dan Pike, board president.

In addition to supporting the local economy, the market also offers familyfriendly fun — children of all ages are invited to pick up a Farmers Market Passport and participate in the Eat-A-Rainbow children’s nutrition program.

“I tried to come up with another way to get children more interested in eating all the colors of the rainbow, and not the Skittles way, and it was this passport,” said Pinsent. “They get their own lanyard with a little holder and a passport that opens up and folds out. It’s got all the different colors of the rainbow. They write their name on the front, and each week they come up to the info booth when they first get there and show me their passport or get a passport, and then I give them $5 in a special Eat-A-Rainbow bill that they can use at certain booths. They can go buy fresh fruits or veggies or bread with that. When they’re all done shopping for the day — and it doesn’t have to be just things that they use their $5 on — they stop by on the way out and they show me all the colors, and we try to get as many colors off of that passport as we can. When they’ve gotten all the colors of the rainbow, they get a grand prize.”

The program has been an unmitigated success — prior to the passport program, CDFM was giving out between $5-15 a week. Now, they average anywhere between $40-80.

“I think it’s important for kids and families to shop from the farmers market because people want to know where their food is sourced,” said Dan Pike, board president. “It’s fun to know who’s producing the food that you’re eating, who raised the meat that you’re eating. Our patrons have relationships with the vendors.”

Ultimately, CDFM’s goal is to make sure that everyone in the community has access to fresh, healthy, locally grown food. The market accepts Snap/EBT, and accord-

From left: Mitch Samples, board vice president; Brett Pinsent, market manager; and Dan Pike, board president.

Don't be shy! A customer loads up on nutritious fresh fruits and vegetables for the week.

"I see our regulars that I know by name every week, and they’re there right at opening to get in line and wait for those fruits and vegetables," said Brett Pinsent, market manager.

ing to the website — which provides specific instructions on how to use your SNAP/EBT card — “if you buy $30 in farmers market tokens (usable at SNAP approved vendors), we will give you an additional $30 in tokens for free.” The market also offers an additional $30 in tokens for fresh produce when patrons use their WIC or Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program coupons.

Pinsent strongly believes in the importance of building relationships between consumers, farmers, and the community, and CDFM is always looking for volunteers and donors to help support their mission.

“We would love to have more support with events that we do, especially during the traditional season,” said Pike. “It might be the Dog Days of Summer, because we love having dogs at the

market, or something for the 4th of July, but to have some extra people to help with those quarterly events would be fantastic.”

For those who don’t have time to volunteer but want to help the market grow and better serve the community, one-time or monthly recurring donations are always needed.

“I understand the ease that comes with going to a big grocery store and getting everything in one place, but there is something to be said about supporting local farmers or local artisans and bakers who really put everything they have into owning these small businesses,” said Pinsent. “Growing up with parents who owned a small business for 40 years, we do not do it for the money — we do it because we love what we do, and I think that’s the case with every single one of our vendors.” t

To learn more about CDFM and subscribe to their mailing list, visit caryfarmersmarket.com.

More than produce: Local bakeries offer fresh pastries made with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.

Many local vendors bring their handmade products to the market, like these adorable crocheted hats by Loops and Whirls.

Treasure Legends in Corolla.

Find Your Way to Corolla, NC

This year, head north up Hwy. 12 to Corolla, best known for its awe-inspiring remote beaches, and where the legendary Corolla Wild Horses still roam. Here you can also find Historic Corolla Park featuring iconic historic sites. Find your treasure on the Corolla Outer Banks.

DOWNTOWN CARY PARK: ANOTHER WORLD, WITHIN YOURS

LONG GONE ARE THE DAYS

when Downtown Cary was considered a sleepy, dormant destination. Once-quiet streets now echo with jovial conversations and the rhythm of bustling footsteps, as locals and visitors alike revel in the many incredible restaurants, entertainment venues, and businesses. Soon there will be a new amenity that will delight all who visit.

Later this year, the much-anticipated Downtown Cary Park will open after more than 20 years of dreaming and planning. This urban park spans 7 acres between Academy, Walker, Park, and Walnut Streets in Downtown Cary.

“This Park truly is for everyone,” said Joy Ennis, general manager of Downtown Cary Park. “It has been thoughtfully and intentionally designed to ensure that any -

one can enjoy all the amenities and vast programming.”

From active recreation at Park Street Courts to the respite of the botanical gardens, this park will appeal to all visitors. Here’s a look at what you can expect to find inside once the fence comes down.

Towne Square

Towne Square encompasses the corner of Academy Street and Dry Avenue. This area will be a major entrance point to the Park, as it includes Cary’s iconic fountain and a multipurpose lawn for programs like pop-up markets and fitness classes.

During construction, the fountain has been reclad in granite, which is better suited to withstand the effects of exposure to moisture. The granite also coordinates with

the aesthetic of other architectural elements throughout the Park.

Beyond the fountain and the lawn, Towne Square includes a space for rotating public art and the permanent Sense of Place art installation.

Academy Pavilion & Plaza

Directly north of Towne Square stands

Academy Pavilion. Inside you’ll find Market 317, a grab-and-go style café that will serve locally sourced, healthy food options such as wraps, sandwiches, and charcuterie boards.

Academy Pavilion also features a programmable and rentable event space. The event space is adorned with beautiful Western Red Cedar along the walls and ceiling and curved Panda Doors that open and spill out onto Academy Plaza.

Academy Plaza overlooks the rest of the Park. Here visitors can enjoy lunches and meetings while being shaded by mature oak trees.

The Nest Play Area

The Nest is the perfect spot for all to partake in imaginative play. Inspired by the natural elements of the Park, this play area features two iconic 20-foot-tall cardinals. These cardinals are surrounded by a tangle of scrambles and logs for climbing, and visitors can even venture inside to get a bird’s-eyeview of the Park.

Beyond the cardinals, The Nest also encompasses a toddler play area nestled amongst towering pine trees, multiple slides, and a splash pad for cooling off on hot days.

Great Lawn and Great Lawn Pavilion

At the heart of the Park, a wellequipped performance pavilion provides infrastructure to host large events while also

allowing for more intimate experiences. The Great Lawn Pavilion sports the same Western Red Cedar that you’ll find in the Academy Pavilion.

From the expansive Great Lawn, visitors will enjoy concerts, movies, yoga classes, and much more. Beyond programming and events, it will be a great spot to set up a picnic or relax in the sunshine.

The Bark Bar and Barkyard

The Bark Bar is an open-air pavilion that offers drinks and lights snacks. With 12 taps, a selection of wines, and refreshing nonalcoholic options, it is bound to be an attractive 5 o’clock meetup spot.

The bar is adjacent to the Barkyard — a dog park divided into two sections for smaller and larger breeds. This dog park will feature tunnels, logs, and interactive water features. Your four-legged friend can access the dog park by purchasing a pass that grants you access to all Cary dog parks — if you already have a pass, you are good to go.

Park Street Courts

Lining Park Street is the Park’s active recreation area. This piece of the Park will include table tennis, foosball tables, a putting green, and the arena. The turf-clad arena, which is surrounded by breathtaking river birch trees, will be utilized for volleyball, bocce ball, cornhole, theater–in–the-round, and much more.

In addition to all the active recreation, Park Street Courts will be a source for delicious bites and fresh produce via food trucks and the Cary Downtown Farmers Market.

Gathering House

Situated in a quiet corner of the Park, the Gathering House features 28 French doors, which open to create an indoor/outdoor space for events and rentals. The building features warm wooden beams to create a cozy atmosphere.

Beyond the doors lies the Gathering Garden, which further extends the house’s

Academy Pavilion and Plaza

“This Park truly is for everyone. It has been thoughtfully and intentionally designed to ensure that anyone can enjoy all the amenities and vast programming.”

Joy Ennis, general manager of Downtown Cary Park

event space. The garden incorporates existing trees and many new native and adaptive regional plants.

Tiered Water Feature

From the onset, stormwater and flood plain management were a high priority in the design of Downtown Cary Park.

The tiered water feature in the center of the Park includes the babbling brook,

middle pond, and lower pond. It was thoughtfully designed to improve water quality and significantly mitigate flooding downstream while also being a key feature of the Park’s aesthetics.

The Skywalk

Floating about 17 feet above the eastern side of the Park is the Skywalk — a 471-foot-long elevated walkway that lifts you into the tree canopy.

While walking among a few of the 36 heritage trees that were saved on-site, you can look below in wonder at one the Park’s botanical gardens. These gardens, and the landscaping throughout the Park, will be decorated with more than 66,000 plants.

“We cannot wait to invite everyone inside,” said Ennis. “My team and I are so excited to see people make this Park their own — to see them create memories, start new traditions, and embrace the story of Cary’s excellence that this Park will contribute to.”

You can learn more about Downtown Cary Park by signing up for their monthly newsletter at downtowncarypark.com

TOP: Aerial view of the Downtown Cary Park ABOVE: The Bark Bar

Kinston is known FOR HISTORIC BATTLES including this morning’s

THROW DOWN FOR THE last cheese biscuit.

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.

We have been proud to serve the Triangle as mortgage professionals for over 30 years.

Mark Wooten

First Home Mortgage

Your Mortgage Expert

Feel free to call us today so that we can help you with your specific needs. We will work to apply the best mortgage instrument available to achieve the overall financial goals of your family.

Peak City Circuit

Select Saturdays

July 1 - Sept 2

We’ll be offering family-friendly movies & concerts throughout Apex’s beautiful parks system. So, load up the kids, the lawn chairs, blankets, and even a picnic (Formerlydinner! called the "Summer Outdoor Movie and Music Series)"

FREE EVENTS

SuperFun

Saturday!

Join us on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month for "super" fun arts & crafts!

Ages 4-12. 10:30am-12:30pm

Wednesday

Night Flicks

Join us on Wednesday, July 5th for a free movie geared for teens & adults! 7:30pm

Wednesday

Morning Movie

Join us on the 3rd Wednesday of every month for your favorite family-friendly movies on the big screen! 10:00am

Rent the Halle

Jazz affair: All White Attire

July 28 at 8pm

Featuring saxophonist Darryl "Soul Sax" Murrill and band Jazzpel. Darryl started his musical journey at the age of 13 and has mastered his talents over the years for a smooth sound!

Tickets are $25, plus entertainment fees and available at The Halle boxoffice or on etix.com

A classic renovation of urban style and design

Call us for more details and rates

Reunions weddings performances lectures receptions business meetings

237 N. Salem Street

Historic Downtown Apex

From galas to weddings, intimate gatherings to everyday arrangements… flowers add the spark that make every occasion memorable.

Contact us and we’ll make your next occasion memorable.

LIVING WALLS

A Blossoming Trend

IF YOU’VE VENTURED INTO a restaurant, bar, office building, or shopping district recently, you’ve likely come across a living wall. Also called vertical gardens, green walls, and plant walls, these installations are not only aesthetically pleasing, but provide a host of other benefits. But first thing’s first … most people just want to know how you do it!

WRITTEN BY ERICA HINTON | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

City Garden Design installed this moss wall at the offices of Ovesco in Cary.

How they work

“People are fascinated with how they work and the designs we are able to put on these walls,” said Leslie Herndon, VP of Operations at Greenscape in Holly Springs, which has installed and maintains several living walls in Raleigh’s Village District. “Our walls at the Village District require quite a bit of maintenance, as they are outside and designed to be changed out frequently. We water them in the summer almost daily, and they are heavily pruned due to the aesthetic we are looking for. We treat these as living art.”

Interior living walls that are more permanent are watered less frequently due to the reduced heat of the environment. However, they all need to be scouted for insects and diseases and fertilized frequently. Irrigation systems, which are installed behind the plants, also need to be monitored regularly, as the slightest issue can create problems with plant life.

While Herndon has installed an entire edible wall for Village District in the past

— complete with mini tomatoes and herbs — they stick to mostly annual flowers in the summer, including lantana, coleus, scaevola, salvia, firetails, and many more. In the winter, selections change to pansies, violas, heuchera, and ivy.

Sarah Marks of Atlantic Designscapes, which designed and maintains a living wall in the bar area of Cary’s kō•än restaurant, adds that indoor environments require just as much technical care as they do creativity. “The design changes with plants periodically and through the seasons. Also, plant care is much more than watering,” said Marks. “That environment goes through changes along with our regular seasons. Heating and air conditioning shifts the needs of a green wall, as well. It is made up of many smaller trays, so that allows us to use plants with different water needs.”

The wall at kō•än, filled with dracaena, pothos, philodendron, and bromeliad, is cared for once a week.

Benefits

“You get the opportunity to green up gray spaces, which provides environmental and aesthetic benefits,” said Herndon. “We also want to encourage people to get outside and create enjoyable spaces for them to be in. Go have your photo taken at one of the many walls in the Village District, including a double-sided one you can put your face in the middle of for the photo op.”

Inside, they are good at providing clean air, noise reduction, and simply creating something beautiful to admire. At Bond Brothers Eastside, their 12-foot by 12-foot living wall greets you on the right just after passing through the door. Installed in 2021 with the help of Cary’s Garden Supply Company, this wall boasts ferns; several varieties of pothos; pink, neon, and white butterfly Syngonium; Hypoestes (polka dot plant); and nerve plants.

“They supplied the plants, and my brother and I made and installed it,” said co-owner Jay Bond. “We initially planned on making it at our other location, so I did

Jarrod Homan pours a cocktail in front of the living wall at ko•än.

research probably over six years ago and had the design in my head. But it wasn't until we opened here that we realized this is just a perfect spot for it.”

Bond and his brother Jeremy made the drip irrigation system themselves. They also do all the maintenance. “You have to maintain it just like a house,” said Bond. Every once in a while, I walk up and just take off some dead pieces or, as things grow bigger, I take cuttings off and I propagate them in little glass jars. When they root, I put them back in the wall.”

They also installed three grow lights overhead that are on a schedule to give the plants light during the night. “They come on until the morning, so they’re pretty much getting sunlight all the time,” said Bond.

Caring for the wall comes naturally to Bond. “I was in horticulture with a small company that grew herbs and flowers years before I started working in the beer industry,” he said. “I have always loved plants, and it was on my bucket list to do something where I can come in and play with it, look at it, watch it grow, and take care of it.”

Go Maintenance-Free with Moss!

Moss walls are a great way to bring nature into your home, but without the all the upkeep of a living wall. We chatted with Paula Higdon, owner and buyer for Cary’s City Garden Design, to learn more about this trend.

How does a moss wall differ from a living wall?

The moss is preserved, so it's no longer living. Unlike living walls, moss walls do not require any light or water. A lot of people assume that moss walls need to be misted for moisture, but there really is zero maintenance required. Much like a potted plant, living walls need regular maintenance like irrigation, light, and sometimes pest control. For the most part, moss walls are one and done.

What kind of moss is used, and how is it preserved?

There are lots of options: mood, sheet, reindeer, shag, and Spanish moss. The moss is preserved with a plant-based glycerin and natural dyes. The glycerin is used to keep the moss fresh and moist looking, and the dye is used for long-lasting color. There are many shades of greens and color options. A lot of the moss we use comes from the mountains of North Carolina and Kentucky.

How do you make a moss wall last?

The moss will last for years. Since it’s dyed, it’s best used inside away from the elements such as rain and direct sun. Avoid using it in really arid areas and around fireplaces.

Is there unlimited potential as far as design goes?

Moss walls offer a lot of room for creativity and personalization. They can be simple and offer a more natural, organic look or be bold and abstract like a piece of modern art. For a more natural look, we'll incorporate pieces of driftwood, preserved ferns, lichen, or mushrooms. Or for something fun, we'll use geodes, crystals, and feathers.

Why have these become so popular?

Moss walls are a great way to add greenery and bring nature indoors without any maintenance. They can be used in almost any setting as a fun and interesting way to express creativity. Pinterest and social media sites such as Instagram and Facebook are a great way to see how people are using moss. The possibilities seem to be endless.

What are the benefits?

Studies have shown biophilic interiors, such as moss walls, can help reduce stress and anxiety. Moss walls are created using sustainable, natural materials and allow us to feel more connected with nature while indoors at either home or work.

A living wall in Raleigh's Village District was installed and is cared for by Greenscape out of Holly Springs.

"You get the opportunity to green up gray spaces, which provides environmental and aesthetic benefits."

Leslie Herndon, VP of Operations at Greenscape

Jay Bond enjoys working on the living wall at Bond Brothers Eastside, which he installed and maintains with his brother, Jeremy. The plants were supplied by Garden Supply Company.

A living wall was the plan for kō•än from the very beginning, when they opened in 2019. “The concept for the restaurant was to make it open, airy, and fresh, and that’s where all the plants and the plant wall come into play,” said manager Brandy Ray. “The customers love it. They take pictures in front of it, and are always asking if it’s real because they can’t believe we have such a big wall that is watered and maintained.”

Where to begin

Shannon Theis with Garden Supply Company suggests an easy way to get the look and feel of a living garden at home. “While we do not offer installation of living walls, we do feature picture frame

planters to create a small living wall space,” she said. The planters come is three sizes up to 8 inches by 10 inches. They lay flat for watering, then get hung back up. There is a drip reservoir for the remaining water.

There are also plenty of DIY opportunities that homeowners can explore via YouTube or Pinterest, said Herndon. “Anything from reusing pallets, to gutters, to prefab panels off Amazon, or reused plastic bottles. You are only limited by your imagination and budget,” she said. “Some important things to consider are the type of plants, sun exposure, drainage, and ability to water. Also, what type of structure are they going onto, and do you need to protect the wall from water damage in any way?”

Starting simple with a little help is always a good approach, said Herndon. “I always recommend starting with a regular container garden first. Work with a local garden center to pick plants out that fit your environment and time commitment,” she said. “Once you get the hang of that, then you can explore the world of living walls. Think of living walls as the advanced stage of container gardening.” t

TOP: Paula Higdon of City Garden Design works on a moss wall in their Cary store.

ABOVE: Preserved moss is easy to maintain because it requires no light or water.

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.

PATIENT-FOCUSED DENTAL CARE FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry has proudly served families across the Triangle for over 20 years with comprehensive, patient-focused dental care. Through the use of stateof-the-art technology, the highly trained team works to educate patients and provide them with the information they need to make the best decisions about their dental health.

In May of 2000, Dr. Michael Riccobene opened his doors with the goal of bringing affordable,

quality dental care to the Triangle. He founded Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry on the principles that his parents instilled him: “Do the right thing, treat people well, and always take care of family.”

Since then, his first practice has grown to over 40 offices across North Carolina. Riccobene Associates has been voted Best Dentist in Wake and Johnston counties for more than 10 years and was recently named a Fast 50 Company by Triangle Business Journal

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry delivers both general and specialty care with a team of general dentists, orthodontists, pediatric

RICCOBENE ASSOCIATES FAMILY DENTISTRY

dentists, prosthodontists, periodontists, oral surgeons, and endodontists.

Dr. Leena Rao and Dr. Evita McAdoo help lead the care team at the Cary Family office. Dr. Rao has practiced for over 20 years, and her holistic approach to dentistry helps patients overcome their dental anxiety while empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. Dr. McAdoo prides herself on establishing meaningful relationships with her patients while providing personalized treatment plans that cater to their specific needs. Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry looks forward to brightening your smile!

Leena Rao, BDS, DMD, AEGD, left Evita McAdoo, DDS, right

CREATING A FUN DENTAL EXPERIENCE FOR CHILDREN

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry has a state-of-the-art facility just for kids conveniently located in Cary, just down the hall from the Cary Family office. Walk across the drawbridge and into the lobby where patients will be transported into a magical world of castles and dragons.

Seeing patients from their first tooth to age 13, Dr. Leslie Gazdeck and Dr. Jackie Garner provide gentle, comprehensive care specifically for

children. The brand new office space allows Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry to put a greater emphasis on pediatric dental care, including complete dental exams, routine teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental procedures, restorations, and more.

For children nervous about visiting the dentist, the Cary Kids office offers behavior management with nitrous oxide and sedation.

Dr. Garner has had a passion for working with children since she began practicing over 10 years ago. She is proficient in numerous areas of dentistry, including fillings, extractions,

RICCOBENE ASSOCIATES

crowns, and utilizing nitrous oxide. Dr. Garner’s goal is to provide a fun, educational visit for every patient.

Dr. Yuan Gazdeck is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist who grew up in Cary! Her goal is to create positive dental experiences for her patients so they can become adults who enjoy going to the dentist. She believes in the large role of diet causing cavities, and the importance of treating primary teeth in ways that are predictable and successful. Dr. Gazdeck and Dr. Garner are excited to serve the children of the Triangle.

CARY KIDS, 1000 CRESCENT GREEN DRIVE, SUITE 200, CARY, NC 27518 | (919) 851-0011 BRUSHANDFLOSS.COM

Leslie Yuan Gazdeck, DDS, MSD, left Jacqueline Garner, DDS, right

ASHWORTH DRUGS

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 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

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 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.

YOU. RENEWED.

That’s the mantra at Cary’s Azura Skin Care Center, led by 14-year aesthetics industry veteran Jennie Kowaleski, PA-C. In a practice where one of the most common client concerns heard is, “I don’t want to look unnatural,” Azura’s goal for any aesthetic treatment is to enhance your unique, natural beauty and never to overdo it or make you look like someone else. With an experienced provider, a plan can be created to ensure you’re comfortable with your treatments and happy with the outcome.

2023 marked Azura’s sixth year

AZURA SKIN CARE

in the Cary community providing medical aesthetics, spa services, and professional-grade skin care products. But what exactly is included under the umbrella of “medical aesthetics”? Injectable treatments like BOTOX®, JUVÉDERM, and KYBELLA® are, of course, client favorites. In addition to injectables, clients can reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain a healthy glow with facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, lasers such as Halo™, photofacials such as BBL – BroadBand Light™, and laser hair reduction.

Azura has also expanded in recent

years to include cosmetic procedures like liposuction, lipotransfer, scarless breast reduction, and skin tightening under direction of Dr. Angelo Tellis, Azura’s medical director.

In March of 2021, Azura proudly moved to 1149 Kildaire Farm Road, offering the growing practice room to offer even more procedures and appointments to clients visiting from across the Triangle area — and beyond! Consultations and appointments are offered Monday through Saturday and can be requested online at azuraskin.com/ contact/request-an-appointment/ or by calling (919) 307-8033.

1149 KILDAIRE FARM ROAD, CARY, NC 27511

(919) 307-8033 | AZURASKIN.COM

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 donation of $25 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.

AWARD-WINNING PLASTIC SURGERY

- SINCE THE VERY BEGINNING CARE PLASTIC SURGERY

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,

NC, 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.

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 everything 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!

INDEPENDENT EYE CARE IN CARY

Cary Family Eye Care has been a leader in eye care in the Triangle since 2008. Owned by husband-andwife optometrists, Drs. Dwight and Kelly Barnes, Cary Family Eye Care is dedicated to understanding their patients’ needs. With the landscape of eye care becoming more and more dominated by large commercial entities, Cary Family Eye Care will remain fiercely independent and committed to providing personalized care in a friendly, professional environment.

Cary Family Eye Care focuses on preventive care and invests in

CARY FAMILY EYE CARE

the latest technology to provide a more thorough evaluation of eye health than traditional methods. The Optomap retinal exam allows evaluation of more than 80% of the retina without dilating drops. The iWellness exam can view the individual layers of the retina to detect issues before they are visible with traditional examination. The Quantifeye macular pigment test can detect an important modifiable risk factor for macular degeneration and lower your risk for future vision loss. Their optical gallery has a wide variety of carefully selected eyewear to help you see and look your best. They focus on independent brands that put quality and style first, allowing you to express your personality. Their

optical team is experienced and can help find just the right look for you.

Cary Family Eye Care is committed to continually improving to provide the highest possible level of care. Having outgrown their current space, they will be moving in the fall of 2023 to a larger space at 7560 CarpenterFirestation Road (right around the corner from the current location). With this larger office, they will have additional doctor availability and an even greater selection of eyewear. In addition, the clinic will be adding a new Vision Therapy specialty, while expanding their dry eye and myopia control clinics. These improvements will help Cary Family Eye Care continue to be your trusted provider for all your eye care needs.

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 “Teethin-a-DayTM” treatment concept. The process yields a better esthetic outcome, while reducing the postsurgical discomfort — 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 patient 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.

Dr. Lim and Dr. Kofford received their master’s degrees in Prosthodontics, specializing in the most complex dental problems. Their advanced training includes fullmouth rehabilitation, dental implants, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, jaw joint issues, bridges, crowns, and veneers.

In addition, Dr. Renata Camino is the newest member of the Cary Prosthodontics team. Dr. Camino served as an assistant professor in the Department of Prosthodontics in the Division of Comprehensive Oral Health at The University of North Carolina - Adams School of Dentistry from 2019-2022. Her duties involved teaching didactic and clinical courses at the predoctoral level and graduate level, including patient care. Her interest lies in continuing to implement innovative workflows that simplify treatment, to enhance provider communication skills and facilitate interdisciplinary care. Dr. Camino is accepting new patients at Cary Prosthodontics and looks forward to serving our community.

CULTIVATING A NEW GENERATION OF HEALTHY SMILES

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday in order to prevent dental problems. Board-certified pediatric dentists Dr. Jean You and Dr. Cyelee Kulkarni are experts in treating the unique dental needs of children and babies. Taking your child to see a pediatric dentist is similar to taking them to see a pediatrician. Dr. Jean and Dr. Cyelee are not just tooth doctors!

As pediatric dentists, they are also trained in child psychology, behavior modification, child pharmacology, and the pediatric airway.

Did you know that Dr. Cyelee is a recognized professor and clinician in her field? Before joining our practice, she served as program director of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania. Both Dr. Jean and Dr. Cyelee understand that they play a key role as a resource of pediatric dental knowledge in the community. Being mothers themselves, they bring a gentle and calming approach to their patient care and believe in working hand-inhand with parents to achieve optimal dental health for their kids.

At Little Tooth Co., we place great importance on prevention and education. Our team takes the time to explain preventative care, hygiene, and treatment needs at every visit. Our office is geared towards the comfort of your child, with specially designed equipment in a fun and safe atmosphere for them to enjoy! We offer a wide range of treatment options, as well as expertise and training to care for your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth. When your pediatrician suggests that your child receive a dental exam, you can rest assured that our team will provide the best possible care. If you haven’t done so already, don’t forget to schedule your child’s first dental check-up with our doctors!

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-the-art 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 by treating their patients as

LOWERY SMILES

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 stateof-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!

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.”

NAY ORTHODONTICS

For Dr. Nay, the relationships he builds with patients 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.

to give patients with sleep problems a one-stop shop for all their sleep needs.

For patients with sleep apnea or other sleep disorders, coordinating care between several practices can be, well, a nightmare. Patients may find themselves needing a sleep doctor, a sleep lab or hospital, and a durable medical equipment provider.

Enter Parkway SleepHealth Centers, a comprehensive sleep center designed

PARKWAY SLEEP HEALTH CENTERS

Founded in Cary in 2004, Parkway SleepHealth Centers is locally owned and operated by Brian June and his daughter and son-in-law, Meghan and Brandon Giegling. They understand the importance of high-quality sleep and the health issues that can arise from untreated sleep disorders.

Parkway offers consultations and follow ups with their board-certified sleep physicians and knowledgeable

physician assistants, sleep studies in their comfortable and homey sleep lab, and provides CPAP machines and supplies, as well. Patients of Parkway often find that the cost of sleep studies and CPAP equipment is much lower at Parkway than other area providers — for the exact same services and supplies.

Parkway is accredited with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and is committed to providing quality, comprehensive care to its community.

FIND YOUR SMILE®

There is never a dull moment for local family dentists Drs. Robert and Bobbi Stanley. The Cary-based practice owners are parents of four and proud partners 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, and have been providing world-class dental care in central Cary since 1995.

Initially, Dr. Robert Stanley was a partner in business, and Dr. Bobbi was the only dentist. However, in 2008, Dr. Robert joined the clinical side as a full-

time dentist. “It just made sense 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.”

In the practice, Dr. Rob enjoys procedures like dental implants, oral surgery, and sedation dentistry, while Dr. Bobbi focuses on cosmetics and Invisalign. In addition, Dr. David Baranowski and Dr. Monica Wheeler joined the practice to focus on general, restorative, and pediatric

dentistry. The result is a practice that serves the dental needs of the entire family under one roof.

Today, three generations of Stanleys work together to provide ethical and exceptional dental care to patients from all over the Triangle. Dr. Rob’s father, Robert Sr., leverages decades of business experience to lead operations at the practice, and Drs. Stanleys’ daughter Megan is an integral part of the operations team. Together, the team at Stanley Dentistry strives to not only provide exceptional care, but to help patients find their smiles. If you’re looking for a family owned and operated dental practice in Cary, look no further than Stanley Dentistry.

EVERY MEMBER IS UNIQUE

Tell us your philosophy/mission as a banker and financial professional.

I aim to be the preferred provider of financial services to those who value a personalized service approach to banking. Providing guidance and interacting closely with members, assisting them in reaching their financial goals and achieving success is the most important thing I do!

What makes you and TowneBank different?

At TowneBank, every member is unique, and our member experience

is too. We are accessible and responsive and can make decisions at the local level. We live and work in the same communities, and we know the people and the businesses. We invest in the communities we serve, support nonprofit organizations, and work closely with our members to help achieve personal and business goals.

What certifications do you hold?

Bachelor of Arts with Honors and Master of Education.

What services do you provide?

I serve the needs of both my business and consumer members, from business lines of credit for

building facilities, merchant services, or commercial mortgages to home equity lines and depository services. I can also provide access to our Towne family of services, including insurance+, benefits, personal mortgages, and even vacation rentals. I consider myself multifunctional in the financial world, but more importantly, I know I can make a difference in my members’ lives.

Maintaining your dental health starts right here at TrueCare Dentistry. Our services include general dentistry, same-day crowns, Invisalign, Zoom teeth whitening, implant restoration, pediatric dentistry, and more. We utilize all the latest technology and superior materials with numerous amenities for your comfort.

Schedule a new patient exam today and receive a complimentary take-home tooth-whitening kit or an Oral B electric toothbrush as our gift to you.

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

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Downtown Cary’s most versatile restaurant rests squarely in the center of The Mayton hotel’s main level. Welcome to Peck & Plume, which features modern American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Whether you sit in the main dining room, the bar, the cozy study, or the open-air terrace, you’re assured to experience first-rate service, ambiance, and flavor. Among the restaurant’s most striking décor is wallpaper created by Hillsborough-based artist Katie M. Hayes and produced by Durham’s Spoonflower, a print-on-demand textile company. New tables, flooring, and lighting further enhance the warm, comfortable space.

Veteran chef Jason Daniels helms Peck & Plume’s kitchen. The softspoken Arkansas native served a decade as executive chef at the Forbes four-star-rated Inn at Willow Grove near Charlottesville, Virginia. Daniels has spent most of his career running kitchens at various resorts, country clubs, and award-winning historic inns.

“I’ve been stirring pots for 35 years,” the humble chef said recently during an exclusive sit-down conversation following a bustling Friday lunch service. “Being in a hotel keeps me on my toes and keeps my knives sharp. I never get complacent, and I have a great team working with me.”

Daniels says modern American fare comprises the “bones

of the operation,” but he also draws inspiration from Asian, French, Mediterranean, and Latin cultures.

“The menu contains home favorites that are dressed up and brought to town,” he said with a smile. “Consistency is the biggest piece of the puzzle for me, so I enjoy spending time teaching others in the kitchen how to maintain a high level of quality.”

No matter which meal you partake at Peck & Plume, you’ll be presented with a well-composed dish made from locally sourced ingredients.

At breakfast, consider the spinach, tomato, and feta frittata with apple smoked bacon, pork or chicken sausage, and breakfast potatoes or garlic cheese grits. Or relish the black pepper biscuits crowned with caramelized onion gravy.

We strongly suggest you plan a brunch outing on a Saturday or Sunday, as the menu will provide plenty of specialties to contemplate.

Whenever you go, don’t skip the sublime and substantial French toast brick.

“We bake the semolina dough and soak it overnight in a heavy egg mixture,” Daniels revealed. “It has a crème brûléeesque texture.”

Splendid shrimp and grits are prepared with a coffee-based red eye barbecue sauce fashioned with garlic, ketchup, onion, and vinegar. The entrée includes a hearty sausage egg roll.

For an impeccable sweet-and-savory option, go for the chicken and waffle. The tender, crispy chicken breast comes drizzled with a chipotle-infused hot honey that will tingle your taste buds.

Among the tempting lunch options, order the open-faced seared salmon sandwich on sourdough. We found the fish to be as fresh and flaky as you’d find at the coast’s finest seafood eatery.

“The balsamic mustard is what makes it stand out,” Daniels said. “We make it in house and ferment it for 24 hours.”

Pan-griddled meatloaf sliders paired with kettle chips make for a generously portioned meal.

At lunchtime and dinner, a selection of For the Table features include items like fried green tomatoes, red eye barbecue quail, and roasted heirloom cauliflower — all of which are gluten free.

“We have made a concerted effort to offer plenty of gluten-free options for the guests,” Daniels said. “This is a priority that’s here to stay.”

The red eye barbecue shrimp and grits are infused with garlic and include a tasty sausage egg roll.

Craft cocktails include the Seneca Old Fashioned and the Basil Smash.

Peck & Plume’s airy main dining room features modern décor and plenty of seating.

From the custom wallpaper, which features native bird species, to the light fixtures in the dining room, crafted to look like nests, many design details are inspired by The Mayton’s proximity to the 7-acre Downtown Cary Park, due to be completed later this year.

Dinner entrees range from cilantro-tinged fish tacos to fork-tender braised short ribs. You’ll also find bucatini pasta brimming with Italian sausage and grilled shrimp, and a pan-roasted chicken served atop asparagus risotto.

A three-course fixed price blue plate dinner provides a nice alternative at a reasonable cost.

“We love to be thought of as a go-to spot on date nights, but we also want to be a place where you come in for a burger on a Wednesday evening,” Daniels said, adding that perceived value is important these days.

An all-day menu featuring artisanal cheeses, ahi tuna, seared diver scallops, steak frites, and more is available from 11 a.m. to closing no matter where you choose to sit.

When it comes to libations, hand-crafted cocktails like the vodka-based Mayton Monarch, bourbon-imbued Honey Bee, and Seneca Old Fashioned with black walnut bitters will keep imbibers satisfied. Beer on draft includes offerings from local craft beer purveyors Bond Brothers and Fortnight Brewing, as well as Red Oak and Wicked Weed.

Hearty meatloaf sliders are paired with kettle chips.

Dishes such as barbecue quail, fried green tomatoes, and pan-roasted chicken are artfully presented and impeccably prepared.

“I’ve

been stirring pots for 35 years. Being in a hotel keeps me on my toes and keeps my knives sharp. I never get complacent, and I have a great team working with me.”

Jason

ABOVE

Be sure to save room for dessert. Aptly named chocolate sin cake will have you repenting of any gluttonous indiscretions, while the intense lemon tart delivers a tangy punch.

Reservations are strongly encouraged. Private dining is available for groups and special occasions. Check the website for operating hours.

Peck & Plume at The Mayton 301 S. Academy St., Cary (919) 804-1400

peckandplume.com

Daniels, chef, Peck & Plume

ABOVE: The otherworldly French toast brick is a weekend brunch standout that’s worth the price of admission.

RIGHT: Executive Chef Jason Daniels deftly combines masterful kitchen skills with a humble disposition. Chocolate sin cake is worth the caloric indiscretion.

Are bladder leaks disrupting you from living a normal life?

Do you get sudden, strong urges to urinate and are unable to control it? Do you go to the restroom eight or more times a day? Do you have accidental leakage before you make it to the restroom? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, you may suffer from overactive bladder or urinary incontinence.

What causes bladder leaks and incontinence?

Bladder leakage, urinary incontinence or overactive bladder symptoms are not a normal part of aging. Millions of people worldwide suffer from these life-altering symptoms.1,2 These symptoms may occur because of abnormal communication between the brain and the bladder. This may lead to the feeling of an urgent need to urinate and an unwanted bladder contraction. You may also experience a need to rush to the restroom and leak or lose urine before you make it in time.

The good news: there are treatment options available to help regain control of your bladder. The doctors at Associated Urologists of North Carolina are now offering Axonics® Therapy, a long-lasting solution that is clinically proven to regain bladder control and deliver clinically meaningful improvements in quality of life*.

What is Axonics Therapy?

Axonics Therapy is an advanced treatment option that is clinically proven for treating symptoms of overactive bladder (including urinary urgency incontinence), fecal incontinence and urinary retention.1

Axonics Therapy works by providing gentle stimulation to the nerves that control the bladder and bowel, which can restore normal control and result in symptom improvement.

If you and your doctor believe you are a candidate for Axonics Therapy, you will first try the therapy for a brief test period that allows you and your doctor to see if the therapy provides satisfactory reduction of your symptoms. If it is determined that the therapy is right for you, you will have an outpatient procedure where a miniaturized Axonics implant is placed just beneath the skin in the upper part of your buttock.

What are the benefits of Axonics Therapy?

Axonics Therapy provides the possibility of saying goodbye to bladder leaks!

Long-lasting symptom relief: Designed to provide a long-term solution for your symptoms.

Clinically proven results:

• 93% of treated patients achieved clinically significant improvements* at 2 years3

• 94% of patients were satisfied with their therapy3

*50% or greater reduction in symptoms

References:

1. Coyne KS, Sexton CC, Thompson CL, et al. The prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in the USA, the UK and Sweden: results from the Epidemiology of LUTS (EpiLUTS) study. BJU Int. 2009;104(3):352-360.

2. Census Reporter website. https://censusreporter.org/ profiles/01000us-united-states/. Accessed July 19, 2019.

3. Pezzella A, et al. Neurourol and Urodyn. 2021

IT’S TIME TO REGAIN CONTROL!

Take the first step toward symptom relief. Call us in Cary at (919) 459-5415 or in to schedule your Axonics Therapy consultation today.

Dr. Frank Tortora (919) 459-5415

110 Kildaire Park Drive, Suite 500 Cary, NC

Dr. Kevin Khoudary (919) 459-5415

110 Kildaire Park Drive, Suite 500 Cary, NC

Dr. William Kizer (919) 459-5415

110 Kildaire Park Drive, Suite 500 Cary, NC

Cocktails! Cocktails!

TRY YOUR HAND AT MIXOLOGY WITH THESE RECIPES FROM YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BARS AND RESTAURANTS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

1.5 oz. London Dry Gin

0.5 oz. triple sec

4 oz. cranberry orange cider (see below)

Fresh mint

Combine liquid ingredients and one ice cube in a shaker.

Shake and pour over fresh ice (called a whip shake).

Garnish with mint.

CRANBERRY

ORANGE CIDER

4 cups unsweetened cranberry juice

4 cups apple juice

2 cups orange juice

¾ cup sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground clove

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground allspice

Combine all ingredients in a pot and simmer for 20 minutes.

BUTTERFLY MARGARITA

1 oz. Lonerider Tequila Cask Finish Bourbon

1 oz. butterfly pea-infused tequila

1.5 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice

1 oz. agave nectar

In a shaker, mix bourbon, lemon juice, and agave nectar with ice cubes and shake for five seconds. Strain and pour onto new rocks in a short glass. Pour in the butterfly pea-infused tequila and watch the color transformation. Stir well for all flavors to come together and cheers!

THE RUBY LEAF

CONTRIBUTED BY KO•ÄN

1 ¼ oz. Del Maguey Vida Mezcal

½ oz. Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur

¾ oz. fresh lime juice

¼ oz. cinnamon syrup

Fever Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit Soda

Mix the first four ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake and pour into a highball glass in a highball glass over ice. Top with pink grapefruit soda. Garnish with an orange peel and a cherry.

ROMAN HOLIDAY

A lower-proof summer refresher that is bright and fresh with hidden flavors of botanicals, bitter orange, cherry, and vanilla.

Fresh mint

1 oz. Amaro Montenegro

1 oz. Cinzano Sweet Vermouth

¾ oz. lemon juice

½ oz. honey syrup

Muddle fresh mint in the bottom of a shaker. Add ice and liquid ingredients, shake, and strain over fresh ice. Garnish with mint and lemon.

WHY IS SALLY SO DANGEROUS?

SideBar Special

1 ½ oz. blanco tequila

½ oz. lime cordial

1 oz. red bell pepper syrup

1 oz. mango puree

Combine ingredients in shaker with crushed ice and shake. Pour entire contents of shaker into a glass rimmed with Tajin.

Float ½ oz. ancho liquor onto the drink.

Garnish with a cucumber.

Home Version

1 ½ oz. blanco tequila

¾ oz. lime juice

½ oz. agave syrup

1 oz. red bell pepper syrup*

1 oz. mango puree or juice

1 slice jalapeno pinch salt

Combine ingredients in shaker without ice and shake hard. Add crushed ice to shaker and shake again. Pour contents of shaker into a glass rimmed with Tajin.

Float ½ oz. Averna onto drink. Garnish with a cucumber.

*Red Bell Pepper Syrup

1 cup sugar

1 cup hot water

2 red bell peppers, seeds removed and cut into slices

Combine sugar and water in a pot and bring to a boil.

Take off heat and add peppers.

Allow to sit for 10 minutes.

Blend at high speed and strain.

Cool before using.

You may add an ounce of rum to increase shelf life.

Keep refrigerated.

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M Sushi AT FENTON

MICHAEL LEE isn’t just a prolific chef and restaurateur. He’s also a visionary.

Consider this: No sooner had he debuted his M Sushi location at Fenton in Cary than he began building out his sixth eatery called The Test Kitchen.

Since opening a quartet of highly regarded Asian-inspired eateries in Durham, Lee has shifted toward expanding his culinary horizons. Thankfully, the Korea native set his sights on Cary for his latest ventures.

M Sushi at Fenton, which opened in late 2022, earned an Honorable Mention in the Best New Restaurant category of the Cary Magazine Maggy Awards .

“The people in Cary have embraced us with a really warm welcome, and we are extremely grateful for it,” Lee said during a recent sit-down conversation at lunchtime.

Lee was quick to explain that the Cary location differs considerably from its Durham counterpart.

“We didn’t just want to cut and paste the same template at the new restaurant,” he said, adding that the Cary location not only has a different appearance, but it also has a distinctive menu.

“Here in Cary, we focus on nigiri and sashimi for a more traditional Japanese experience,” he said. “We also purposefully use a different type of rice and even two differ-

ent vinegars. We import the Koshihikari rice grain from Japan and have it milled at a special rice factory in New York.”

While purposely devoid of any windows or natural light, the restaurant’s modern interior features a narrow dining room, striking faux stone walls, and a long, sleek bar that allows guests to watch the sushi chefs meticulously assemble their masterful creations.

Among the tempting curated small plates are a nigiri sampler; truffle-infused tuna tartare; and crudo, which involves six pieces of raw fish with tangy ponzu sauce, sweet baby cherry peppers, fried shallots, matcha salt, and more.

Nigiri and sashimi selections range from sustainably farmed caviar and Japanese

black sea bream to amberjack, mackerel, and negitoro (otherwise known as fatty tuna).

When it comes to maki, standout signature rolls include Futomaki (sea trout, tuna, whitefish); Peruvian Rainbow with panko-crusted scallop and spicy tuna tartare; and Spider, which comprises tempurabattered softshell crab amid sweet chili aioli and eel sauce.

Traditional rolls are among Chef Lee’s favorites due to their simplicity and flavorforward ingredients. Order the sea trout with avocado or cucumber, the hamachi with scallion, or even the California roll. The vegan bento features seaweed salad, inari sushi, eggplant curry, maitake tempura, and potato croquette.

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

From top to bottom” The M Sushi sashimi sampler includes scallop, red sea bream, otoro fatty tuna, bluefin tuna, sea trout, and knifejaw.

Sea

Talented sushi chefs prepare traditional rolls plus sashimi and nigiri creations.

The citrus-forward Yuzu 5 Ways dessert is sure to please.

trout sashimi, one of numerous gluten-free items

“Our menu is constantly evolving, as I always want to push myself to innovate and improve.”

Michael lee, chef & restaurateur, m sushi

Seeking a next-level umami encounter?

M Sushi provides a nigiri omakase (Japanese for “entrust yourself to the chef”) experience that will deliver a multi-course meal to each person at the table. For extra zest, we recommend paying the upcharge and adding real grated wasabi.

“Our menu is constantly evolving, as I always want to push myself to innovate and improve,” Lee said.

Don’t pass up dessert. Best choice: the palate-pleasing Yuzu 5 Ways, a distinctive citrus-infused olive oil cake, ice cream, and meringue.

As for beverages, M Sushi covers all the bases with wine, liquor, sake, champagne, imported beer, and inventive craft cocktails. Try the inimitable wasabi martini or the lychee lime fizz with choice of Haku vodka or Roku gin with lychee puree, fresh lime juice, and prosecco.

Service is efficient and accommodating, with a harmonious, guest-first approach from start to finish.

M Sushi at Fenton is open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner and Sundays for lunch only. Reservations are strongly recommended. t

M Sushi

4 Fenton Main St., Suite 120, Cary (919) 729-5662 m-restaurants.com

Inventive cocktails like the lychee lime fizz and wasabi martini pair nicely with sushi.

The sea trout avocado roll, which is considered traditional maki.

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BELLINI ITALIAN CUISINE

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

IF BELLINI ITALIAN CUISINE in Holly Springs seems familiar, it’s because the restaurant originated in 2010 in Fuquay-Varina and then enjoyed a stint in Cary’s MacGregor Village. The new location is situated in a strip shopping center beside Walmart.

“Many of our most loyal patrons live in Holly Springs and Fuquay, so we felt it made sense to move back closer to them,” said humble chef Abel Atauchi, a native of Ecuador who runs the restaurant along with his brother and business partner, Adan. “This area continues to grow, so we look forward to serving our guests with fresh, homemade Italian food.”

With more than 35 years of experience as a chef, Atauchi spent over 20 years cooking in New York restaurant kitchens.

“When I moved to the US in 1985, my first job was working as a dishwasher,” Atauchi said. “In time I learned how to make pasta and other Italian dishes.”

Ultimately, he moved to North Carolina and opened a family restaurant with Adan. Since day one, the brothers have spent their days and evenings preparing, cooking, and finessing food at Bellini.

The expansive dining space features a balanced mix of tables and banquettes and a centrally positioned bar area. Consider Bellini an affordable eating establishment with a refined-but-unfussy vibe. You’ll find cloth napkins on the tables, but it’s the kind of place you can visit for a date night or with the entire family.

Friendly, attentive servers are well trained in the nuances of the cuisine and the libations.

Begin your meal with an appetizer such as the golden fried calamari with house-made marinara sauce; the ricotta- and spinach-infused rolled eggplant; or thinly sliced crispy fried zucchini. Cold antipasto with salami, prosciutto, mushrooms, and marinated artichoke hearts makes for the perfect shareable starter.

Eggplant alla Fiorentina

Rotating specials, such as the veal shank ossobuco, always impress.

Among the half dozen available salads, we recommend the gorgonzola-laden red beet served atop mixed greens with balsamic vinaigrette and olive oil.

When it comes to the main course, a plethora of chicken, veal, seafood, and pasta dishes vie for consideration. Portions are always plentiful.

Popular poultry dishes include chicken marsala with brown gravy and mushrooms and Chicken Bellini sauteed in white wine that’s served with fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, and Kalamata olives.

You can’t go wrong with any of the veal entrees, whether you choose parmesan, saltimbocca, piccata, or Genovese. These are served scaloppini style, meaning the meat is thinly sliced, with a side of penne or spaghetti.

The simple penne alla vodka pasta rates as solid as you’ll find anywhere.

“We make the sauce with Grey Goose vodka, heavy cream, and fresh basil,” said Atauchi.

Scratch-made fettuccine with alfredo sauce also hits all the right notes.

The pasta dish that left the biggest impression on us? By far, it’s the cheese ravioli with pine nut pesto sauce layered with fresh garlic, basil, and mozzarella.

“It’s an absolutely delicious dish that everyone who orders it loves,” Atauchi said.

If you’re in the mood for seafood, try the fresh clams served atop spaghetti; seafood risotto with shrimp, scallops, and calamari; or the Branzino Filet Milanese Capricciosa, a breaded and fried Mediterranean sea bass served with arugula, onions, tomato, lemon, and olive oil.

Off-menu daily food specials should not be ignored. These range from lobster tail linguine to grilled ribeye with gorgonzola to lamb shank alla Milanese and much more.

If it’s available when you visit, order the veal shank ossobuco with onions and carrots. The veal is fork tender and will melt in your mouth.

“It’s prepared with red wine, and we cook it in the oven at 500 degrees for three hours,” Atauchi said.

Italian favorites, from appetizers to desserts, are made from scratch and to order at Bellini Italian Cuisine in Holly Springs.

Stuffed mushrooms

Gluten-free menu items include chicken, veal, seafood, and pasta. All Bellini homemade salad dressings also contain no gluten.

Wine is available by the glass and bottle.

“We serve mostly Italian wine in both reds and whites,” Atauchi said. “It’s good quality wine for an affordable price, and we offer specials.”

In addition to wine, you’ll find specialty cocktails, cordials, and domestic and Italian beer.

If you manage to save room for any of the 10 tempting desserts like Limoncello cake, crème brulée, or chocolate souffle, don’t miss the exceptional — and sized to share — tiramisu. The coffee-flavored traditional Italian treat features ladyfingers soaked in Frangelico, Disaronno, Kahlua, and Grand Marnier liqueurs.

“When guests come in, the most important thing is for them to enjoy good food, great service, and nice ambiance,” Atauchi said. “We want them to come back again and again.”

Bellini is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week with continual service. Reservations are strongly encouraged. A private room accommodates 26-30 people (call in advance to book). If you need to feed a crowd but not at the restaurant, family-style meals are available for takeout. t

BELLINI ITALIAN CUISINE

7256 GB Alford Highway, Holly Springs (919) 552-0303

belliniitaliancuisinehollysprings.com

Chicken Marsala

ABOVE: Brothers Abel and Adan Atauchi own and run Bellini, serving fine Italian cuisine to Wake County residents for more than 10 years.

LEFT: House-made tiramisu

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. (919) 481-4434 abbeyroadnc.com

Academy Street Bistro

New American cuisine w ith a French flair.

200 S. Academy St. (919) 377-0509

academystreetbistro.com

Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream

Premium quality ice cream and sorbet. 10120 Green Level

Church Road #208 (919) 901-8560

1008 Ryan Road (919) 234-0037

andiasicecream.com

Annelore’s German Bakery

Authentic German pastries, breads, and pretzels.

308 W. Chatham St. (919) 267-6846

anneloresbakery.com

Asali Desserts & Café

Gourmet sweet shop crossed with a refined coffeehouse.

107 Edinburgh Drive, Suite 106-A (919) 362-7882

asalicafe.com

Ashworth Drugs

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

105 W. Chatham St. (919) 467-1877

ashworthdrugs.com

Awaze Ethiopian Cuisine

East African eatery showcasing vegetarian and vegan options. 904 NE Maynard Road (919) 377-2599

awazecuisine.com

A’Verde Cocina and Tequila Library

Not your traditional Mexican food. 2300 Walnut St. (984) 200-3469 averdecary.com

BB’s Crispy Chicken

Shatteringly crispy chicken. 1147 Parkside Main St. (984) 272-3500 bbscrispychicken.com

Big Dom’s Bagel Shop

Serving bagels, B’donuts, and sandwiches. 203 E Chatham St. (919) 377-1143 bigdomsbagelshop.com

The Big Easy Oven + Tap Modern Southern-inspired kitchen with New Orleans roots.

231 Grande Heights Drive (919) 468-6007 thebigeasyovenandtap.com

Big Mikes BBQ

Beers on tap to complement locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ. 1222 NW Maynard Road (919) 799-2023 brewnquenc.com

Bonefish Grill

Fresh is our signature. 2060 Renaissance Park Place (919) 677-1347 bonefishgrill.com

Bosphorus Restaurant

Traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. 329-A N. Harrison Ave. (919) 460-1300 bosphorus-nc.com

BottleDog Bites & Brews

A casual place for unconventional food and craft beer. 8306 Chapel Hill Road (919) 390-1617 bottledogcary.com

Bravo’s Mexican Grill

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

Brecotea Baking Studio

Abundant sweet and savory selections. 1144 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 234-1555 brecotea.com

Brewster’s Pub

Open late, serving a full food and drink menu. 1885 Lake Pine Drive (919) 650-1270 brewsterspubcary.com

Brigs

Breakfast creations, cool salads, and hot sandwich platters. 1225 NW Maynard Road (919) 481-9300 brigs.com

Buldaegi BBQ House

Contemporary Korean BBQ. 2470 Walnut St. (919) 703-0400

buldaegi.com

Bumble Brews

Play space for kids with a café serving coffee, beer, wine, and more. 2464 SW Cary Parkway (984) 465-0537

bumblebrews.fun

Burrito Shak

Quality fresh-Mex cuisine. 2982 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 267-6772

burritoshak.com

Cha House

Asian-inspired craft tea house. 1319 Kildaire Farm Road (984) 465-0498

chahouseusa.com

Chanticleer Café & Bakery

Family-owned restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and specialty coffees. 6490 Tryon Road (919) 781-4810

chanticleercafe.com

Chef’s Palette

Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service. 3460 Ten Ten Road, Suite 118 (919) 267-6011

chefspalette.net

Chelsea Café

Fresh, local American fare for breakfast and lunch (inside Raleigh Brewing). 2036 Renaissance Park Place (919) 474-8698

chelseacafe-rtp.com

Chicken Salad Chick

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

302 Colonades Way, Suite 202 (984) 207-5516

chickensaladchick.com/cary-nc/

Cilantro Indian Café

Northeast Indian cuisine with fresh ingredients. 107 Edinburgh S. Drive, Suite 107 (919) 234-1264

cilantroindia.com

DINING GUIDE

CinéBistro

Ultimate dinner-and-a-movie experience. 525 New Waverly Place, Suite 203 (919) 987-3500 cmxcinemas.com/locationdetail/ cinebistro-waverly

Cinnaholic

Plant-based bakery with create-your-own cinnamon rolls.

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

City Barbeque

Barbeque in its truest form. 1305 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 439-5191 citybbq.com

Coffee & Crepes

Freshly prepared sweet and savory crepes. 315 Crossroads Boulevard (919) 233-0288 coffeeandcrepes.com

Colletta Italian Food & Wine

Celebrating the best Italian American dishes. 1 Fenton Main St., Suite 170 (919) 766-0062 collettarestaurant.com/cary1/

Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar

Creative burgers and hot dogs with diverse bottled soda selection. 126 Kilmayne Drive (919) 466-0055 corbettsburgers.com

Craft Public House

Sociable neighborhood public house. 1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 601 (919) 851-9173 craftpublichouse.com

Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery

Family-owned and operated bakery and espresso bar.

1983 High House Road (919) 380-1840 cremacoffeeroaster.com

Crosstown Pub & Grill

A straight-forward menu covers all the bases. 154 E. Chatham St. (919) 650-2853 crosstowndowntown.com

Custom Confections

Custom cheesecakes made locally. 1187 W. Chatham St. customconfections.net

Danny’s Bar-B-Que

Slow-cooked on an open pit with hickory wood. 311 Ashville Ave. G (919) 851-5541 dannysbarbque.com

Di Fara Pizza Tavern

We don’t cut any corners when it comes to ingredients. 111 E. Chatham St. (919) 678-5300 difarapizzatavern.com

Doherty’s Irish Pub

Catch the game or listen to live music. 1979 High House Road (919) 388-9930 dohertysirishpubnc.com

Duck Donuts

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

100 Wrenn Drive, Suite 101 (919) 468-8722

duckdonuts.com/cary/

Enrigo Italian Bistro

Fresh food made from pure ingredients. 575 New Waverly, Suite 106 (919) 854-7731

dineenrigo.com

Esteamed Coffee

Building esteem and employment for adults with differing abilities. 114 S. Academy St. (919) 650-3470 esteamedcoffee.com

Famous Toastery

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

316 Colonades Way, Suite 201C (919) 655-1971

famoustoastery.com

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Made-to-order burgers and more. 1121 Parkside Main St. (919) 380-0450 fiveguys.com

Gamers Geekery & Tavern

Cary’s first board game café. 107 Edinburgh S. Drive #213 (919) 650-2366 carygametavern.com

Geluna Gelato

Traditional methods, modern flavors. 111 E. Chatham St. (919) 234-1216 gelunagelato.com

Goodberry’s Frozen Custard

Made fresh hourly since 1988. 1146 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 467-2386

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

Great Harvest Bread Co.

Real food that tastes great. 1220 NW Maynard Road (919) 460-8158 greatharvestcary.com

Gonza Tacos y Tequila

Award-winning Colombian-Mexican cuisine. 525-105 New Waverly Place (919) 653-7310

cary.gonzatacosytequila.com

Hank’s Downtown Dive

Your neighborhood bohemian dive. 111 E. Chatham St. (984) 464-2524

hanksdowntowndive.com

Herons

The signature restaurant of The Umstead Hotel and Spa. 100 Woodland Pond Drive (919) 447-4200

theumstead.com/dining/herons

Honey Pig

Authentic Korean BBQ. 1065 Darrington Drive (919) 234-0088

honeypignc.com

Honeysuckle Gelato

Creating delicious gelato and joyful experiences.

7 Fenton Main St. (919) 377-2029

honeysucklegelato.com

DINING GUIDE

JuiceVibes

Made-to-order juices from locally sourced produce.

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

Kababish Café

A celebration of deliciousness and creativity. 201 W. Chatham St., Suite 103 (919) 377-8794 kababishcafe.com

ko•än

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

La Farm Bakery

Handcrafted daily with only the freshest ingredients. 4248 NW Cary Parkway (919) 657-0657

220 W. Chatham St. (919) 650-3117

5055 Arco St. (in Whole Foods) (984) 228-0300 lafarmbakery.com

La Grassa Pastificio

Hand-crafted Italian cuisine. 908 NE Maynard Road (984) 465-0594 lagrassaitaliano.com

La Victoria

Celebrating Mexican heritage. 2025 Renaissance Park Place (919) 234-1276 lavictoriamex.com

LemonShark Poke

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

Los Tres Magueyes

We prepare our food fresh daily. 110 SW Maynard Road (919) 460-8757 lostresmagueyescary.com

10120 Green Level Church Road, Suite 202 lostresmagueyesgreenlevel.com

Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen

Exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes.

7307 Tryon Road (919) 233-1632 lucky32.com/cary

Lucky Chicken

All of our beautiful Peru, with every dish. 1851 N. Harrison Ave. (919) 678-3153

Lugano Ristorante

Italian dining in a comfortable and casual atmosphere. 1060 Darrington Drive (919) 468-7229 luganocary.com

Maximillians Grill & Wine Bar

Global cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

8314 Chapel Hill Road (919) 465-2455

maximilliansgrill.com

MC Modern Asian Cuisine

Bringing upscale Asian flair to downtown Cary.

324 S. Academy St. (919) 650-1738 mccuisines.com

Meeple’s Brew

850+ board games between two locations. 821 Bass Pro Lane meeplesbrew.com

Mellow Mushroom

Beer, calzones, and creative stone-baked pizzas. 4300 NW Cary Parkway (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. (919) 469-9651 mithaius.com

Mixed Desserts

Edible cookie dough, cookies, soft serve ice cream, and family-friendly treats. 107 Edinburgh S. Drive, Suite 115 (919) 377-0058

mixeddesserts.com

MOD Pizza

Serving artisan style pizzas, superfast. 316 Colonades Way, Suite 206-C (919) 241-7200

336 Sembler Lane, Suite 4001 (984) 208-7015 modpizza.com

Mookie’s New York Deli

A bona fide, no-frills sandwich spot. 1010 Tryon Village Drive (919) 900-7770 mookiesnydeli.com

M Sushi

Purposeful seasonal seafood. 4 Fenton Main St., Suite 120 (919) 729-5662 m-restaurants.com

Noodle Boulevard

Ten variations on the ramen theme, covering a pan-Asian spectrum. 1718 Walnut St. (984) 222-3003 noodleblvd.com

Once in a Blue Moon Bakery & Café

The fast track to sweet tooth satisfaction. 115-G W. Chatham St. (919) 319-6554 bluemoonbakery.com

The Original N.Y. Pizza Consistent every visit. 831 Bass Pro Lane (919) 677-8484 6458 Tryon Road (919) 852-2242 theoriginalnypizza.com

Peck & Plume

Modern American dining in downtown Cary. 301 S. Academy St. (919) 804-1400 peckandplume.com

Pineapple Sol

Offering picnics, charcuterie, high tea, and more.

302 Colonades Way, Suite 109 (919) 803-8533 pineapplesol.com

Pizzeria Faulisi

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

215 E. Chatham St., Suite 101 (919) 377-8244 pizzeriafaulisi.com

Prohibitive

Weekday hideaway cocktail bar. 317 W Chatham St. (919) 808-1788 prohibitivecary.com

Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café Gourmet market, café, and wine bar. 211 E. Chatham St. (919) 377-1788 prosepicurean.com

Pure Juicery Bar

Vegan eatery and juice bar. 716 Slash Pine Drive (919) 234-1572 purejuicerybar.com

RallyPoint Sport Grill

Lunch and dinner food in a pub atmosphere. 837 Bass Pro Lane (919) 678-1088 rallypointsportgrill.com

Red Bowl Asian Bistro

Each distinctive dish is handcrafted. 2020 Boulderstone Way (919) 388-9977 redbowlcary.com

Ricci’s Trattoria

Keeping true to tradition. 10110 Green Level Church Road (919) 380-8410 riccistrattoria.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

Great food always, with a side of good times. 8111-208 Tryon Woods Drive (919) 851-3999 ruckuspizza.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Cooked to perfection. 2010 Renaissance Park Place (919) 677-0033

ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/cary

BB’s Crispy Chicken

1147 PARKSIDE MAIN ST., PARKSIDE TOWN COMMONS, CARY (984) 272-3500 | BBSCRISPYCHICKEN.COM

BB’S SERVES ELEVATED CHICKEN SANDWICHES, wraps, salads, seasoned fries, and handspun milkshakes. The first location debuted in Raleigh, then Durham, and, most recently, at the emergent Parkside Town Commons in Cary.

“It’s really neat to focus on a singular concept that can be shared with many communities,” said owner Ashley Christensen, adding that the eatery was founded on her “love for the humble ingredient of chicken” and people’s “increased excitement for the crispy chicken sandwich.”

When it comes to BB’s primary menu offering, humanely harvested, antibiotic-free chicken is sourced from Bell & Evans, a family-run company founded in 1894. The poultry is air-chilled during processing to lock in natural juices, tenderize the meat, and reduce human handling.

According to Christensen, the bird is brined and then dipped in a buttermilk-tinged batter. “(It) then sees a two-part frying process at two different temperatures,” she explained. “Honing this technique was the most labor-intensive part of the development of the menu.”

Friendly, helpful staffers make the dining experience pleasant for guests. Christensen said BB’s is committed to creating a welcoming and safe work environment that is always evolving and refining.

“We consider our diners and supporters to be part of our process and community,” she said. “We are listening and learning from them every day.”

BB’s is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

— David McCreary

Jonathan Fredin

Colletta

1 FENTON MAIN ST., SUITE 170, FENTON IN CARY (919) 766-0062 | COLETTARESTAURANT.COM

COLLETTA, a modern Italian American restaurant located at Cary’s upscale Fenton development, offers an elevated dining experience in a comfortable, warm environment.

The menu at Colletta features a well-balanced assemblage of antipasti, pasta, pizza, seafood, and more. What’s more, friendly, knowledgeable servers provide guests helpful guidance regarding what to order.

Keyturah Yisrael, Coletta’s new executive chef, has added her own flair to the menu: ravioli with spinach, ricotta, and crispy artichokes; potato-crusted grouper; and new pastas and pizzas to enjoy indoors and outside on the patio. Colletta’s 15-layer signature dish, Lasagna Bolognese, incorporates a perfect blend of bechamel, Angus beef, whipped ricotta cheese, and basil.

For a rewarding communal dining experience, choose the chef-curated three-course meal served family style. An “a Tavola” (“hearty helpings for the table”) menu features selections like a tender Veal Chop Pizzaiola and a hearty 18-ounce Ribeye Florentine.

When it comes to dessert, pastry chef Helena Larson has got your sweet tooth covered with lemon ricotta cake, chocolate budino cake, sweet panzanella, and much more.

“I’m really excited to be part of a chef-driven restaurant group that encourages us as chefs to be creative and explore flavors and seasons, and tailor the experience for our guests,” said Larson.

Lunch: Thursday – Sunday | 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Dinner: 7 days/week | 5 p.m.

DINING GUIDE

Sassool

Homemade Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. 1347 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 300-5586 sassool.com

Seoul Garden

A wide-ranging menu provides plenty of bona fide Korean options. 815 W. Chatham St. (919) 234-6002 seoulgardennc.com

Serendipity Gourmet Deli

Discovering the unusual, valuable or pleasantly surprising.

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

Seol Grille

Scratch-made steamed beef and pork dumplings practically melt in your mouth. 2310 Walnut St. (984) 241-9112 seolgrille.com

So Hot

All-you-can-eat hot pot cooked at your table. 937 High House Road (919) 694-5510 sohotcary.com

Sophie’s Grill & Bar

Traditional pub fare along with Old-World cuisine. 2734 NC-55 (919) 355-2377 sophiesgrillandbar.com

Spirits Pub & Grub

Wide variety of menu items, all prepared in a scratch kitchen. 701 E. Chatham St. (919) 462-7001 spiritscary.com

Sports & Social

Big eats, even bigger screens. 301 Fenton Gateway Drive (919) 363-8888

sportsandsocial.com/cary

Superica

— David McCreary

Tex-Mex, straight from Texas. 25 Fenton Main St., Suite 110 (919) 443-0746

superica.com/cary/

Jonathan Fredin

DINING GUIDE So Hot

1937 HIGH HOUSE ROAD (CORNERSTONE), CARY (919) 694-5510 | SOHOTCARY.COM

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A communal dining experience that’s exciting and full of myriad flavors, So Hot in Cary provides a rewarding hotpot-style extravaganza. The restaurant is conveniently located in Cornerstone Shopping Center just a few doors down from Asian supermarket H Mart.

Steeped in ancient Chinese tradition, the hotpot concept involves a do-ityourself cooking method akin to fondue. A simmering vessel of flavored broth rests in the center of each guest’s table and is filled with assorted raw meats, vegetables, fungi, and noodles. Once cooked, diners can dip their food into various sauces and eat until satisfied.

When you arrive at the eatery, expect to be guided to your table by adorable robot host Alice. A printed guide on the table provides helpful instructions regarding how long to cook meat, vegetables, and noodles.

“We try to make it easy for customers to have an enjoyable meal,” said Lisa Liu, a native of China and the vivacious guest relations manager at So Hot. “It makes me happy when I see people socializing and liking the food.”

So Hot is open from noon to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and noon to 10 p.m. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

— David McCreary

Sugar Koi

Koiyaki fish waffle cones with Asian-inspired ice cream. 116 Kilmayne Drive (919) 757-2399

sugarkoi.com

Szechuan Mansion Hotpot

A cook-it-yourself meal using a cauldron of flavored broth and fresh ingredients. 1353 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 800-1802

szechuanmansion.com

Taco Addicts

West Coast-inspired tacos. 131 Crossroads Boulevard (919) 896-8043

taco-addicts.com

Taipei 101

Specializing in Szechuan, Zhejiang, and Taiwanese styles of cooking. 121 E. Chatham St. (919) 388-5885

carytaipei101nc.com

Taste of Jamaica

Family-owned, authentic dine-in and take-out Jamaican restaurant. 600 E. Chatham St. (919) 461-0045

tasteofjamaicanc.com

Tazza Kitchen

Wood-fired cooking and craft beverages. 600 Ledgestone Way (919) 651-8281

tazzakitchen.com/location/stonecreekvillage

Thai Spices & Sushi Freshest, most-authentic

Thai cuisine and sushi. 986 High House Road (919) 319-1818

thaispicesandsushi.com

The Agency Bar and Social Modern, rustic NC cuisine and cocktails. 21 Fenton Main St. (919) 473-9676

agencybarandsocial.com

Totopos Street Food & Tequila

A walk through Mexico City. 1388 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 678-3449

totoposfoodandtequila.com/cary

Jonathan Fredin

We are an Italian dining ristorante with a comfortable and casual atmosphere. We strive to provide each guest with an experience they will remember.

DINING GUIDE

Tribeca Tavern

Handcrafted burgers, homegrown beer.

500 Ledgestone Way (919) 465-3055 tribecatavernnc.com

Udupi Café

Authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. 590 E. Chatham St. (919) 465-0898 udupicafenc.com

V Pizza

True Neapolitan pizza, made with the absolute best ingredients.

1389 Kildaire Farm Road (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 (919) 977-6745 vomfassusa.com

Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill

Award-winning food in a non-conformist atmosphere.

8322 Chapel Hill Road (919) 380-7737 woodysportstavern.com

Yuri Japanese Restaurant

For sushi fans and connoisseurs of Japanese cuisine.

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

APEX

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

Great food. Outstanding live music. 1700 Center St. (919) 372-5383 abbeyroadnc.com

Anna’s Pizzeria

Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.

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

Apex Wings Restaurant & Pub

Fresh, crisp wings with sauces made in house.

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

A Taste of Brooklyn

Petite bakery with a cheery vibe.

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

Bonafide Bakeshop & Cafe

Scratch-made Northern classics and Southern comforts.

1232 W. Williams St. (919) 372-5000 bonafidebakeshop.com

Common Grounds Coffee

House & Desserts

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

Daniel’s Restaurant & Catering

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

1430 W. Williams St. (919) 303-1006 | danielsapex.com

Doherty’s Irish Pub

Catch the game or listen to live music. 5490 Apex Peakway (919) 387-4100 | dohertysirishpubnc.com

Five Guys Burgers & Fries

Made-to-order burgers and more. 1075 Pine Plaza Drive (919) 616-0011 fiveguys.com

J&S Pizza

Authentic Italian cuisine and New York-style pizza since 1995. 804 Perry Road (919) 363-0071 jandsnypizza.com

Mamma Mia Italian Bistro

A taste of Italy in every bite. 708 Laura Duncan Road (919) 363-2228 mammamianc.com

The Mission Market

A casual hangout to drink, eat, and shop. 124 N. Salem St. (919) 629-4064 shopthemission.com

Osteria G

Traditional Italian fare featuring housemade pasta. 5160 Sunset Lake Road (984) 229-7480 osteriag.com

The Peak on Salem Seasonal contemporary Southern cuisine. 126 N. Salem St. (919) 446-6060 | thepeakonsalem.com

Jonathan Fredin

A’Verde Cocina + Tequila Library, Cary

TapStation

TAPSTATION, a family-friendly restaurant and brewery, is situated on the busy corner of West Williams and South Salem streets near downtown. The twostory space includes a rooftop patio bar, a playground, and ample outdoor seating.

The building formerly housed Holt & Sons, a longtime automotive service station, and the new owners have gone to great lengths to preserve the nostalgic vibe.

“We wanted to maintain the essence and historic status of the building, so we designed the new concept around the service station theme,” explained Jonathan Pierce, founder and managing partner of TapStation along with his wife, Maggie Pierce, as well as Jeff and Meredith Kromenhoek.

There is much to like here, not the least of which is an impressive offering of craft beer and quality bourbon. “Many of the beers are from Mason Jar Lager Company, but a lot are being made on-site,” Pierce said. “We also have at least 60 varieties of curated bourbons.”

As for the food, elevated shareable appetizers abound. We strongly suggest you select several for the table, especially if you have hungry kids in tow.

For dessert, lean toward an adult milkshake, like the bourbon vanilla with salted bourbon caramel, or a house root beer float.

TapStation is open Tuesday through Sunday with continuous service for lunch and dinner.

—David McCreary

DINING GUIDE

The Provincial Fresh. Simple. 119 Salem St. (919) 372-5921 theprovincialapex.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

Great food always, with a side of good times. 1055 Pine Plaza Drive (919) 446-6333

ruckuspizza.com

Rudy’s Pub & Grill

Comfortable and familiar, just like home. 780 W. Williams St. (919) 303-5061

rudysofapex.com

Salem Street Pub

Burgers, brews, and moonshine. 113 N. Salem St. (919) 387-9992

salemstreetpub.com

Scratch Kitchen and Taproom

It’s better from scratch.

225 N. Salem St. (919) 372-5370

scratchkitchenandtaproom.com

Skippers Seafood & Smokehouse

The freshest seafood and BBQ available. 1001 E. Williams St. (919) 303-2400

skippersfish.com

SodaBox

Craft fountain drinks and tasty treats. 817 E. Williams St. (919) 267-6914 | sodabox.love

Sushi SUYU

Japanese cuisine with Korean-inspired flair.

301 N. Salem St. (919) 367-6419

sushisuyu.com

TapStation

Service station turned brewpub with an elevated menu.

320 S. Salem St.

tapstationapex.com

Jonathan Fredin

Vegan Community Kitchen

Wholesome multicultural vegan food.

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

Wake Oasis Coffee

Delivering cups of joy. 6108 Old Jenks Road (919) 267-4622 wakeoasiscoffee.com

FUQUAY-VARINA

Anna’s Pizzeria

Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.

138 S. Main St. (919) 285-2497 annaspizzeria.com

Aviator SmokeHouse

Wood-smoked food and local beer.

525 E. Broad St. (919) 557-7675 aviatorbrew.com/smokehouse

Cultivate Coffee Roasters

Roastery supporting addiction recovery.

128 S. Fuquay Ave. (919) 285-4067 cultivate.coffee

El Cantarito Bar & Grill

The full spectrum of Mexican cuisine.

155 S. Main St. (919) 285-3781 elcantaritobarandgrill.com

Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza Pasta French-inspired Italian cuisine.

900 N. Main St. (919) 552-8868 garbalditrattoria.com

The Gyro Spot

Authentic Greek food.

1005 E. Broad St. (919) 285-3608 thegyrospotnc.com

J&S New York Pizza

Authentic Italian cuisine and New York-style pizza since 1995.

500 Broad St. (919) 557-6921 | jandsnypizza.com

Little Portugal

Authentic Portuguese cuisine including churrasco char-grilled chicken. 736 N. Main St. (919) 586-7144 littleportugalnc.com

Los Tres Magueyes

A little taste of Mexico.

401 Wake Chapel Road (919) 552-3957 lostresmagueyes.com

The Mason Jar Tavern

All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.

305 S. Main St. (919) 762-5555 themasonjartavern.com

Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine

Creative Mediterranean delights.

513 E. Broad St. (919) 762-6609 nilscafefuquayvarina.com

Stick Boy Bread Co.

Handcrafted baked goods from scratch with all-natural ingredients.

127 S. Main St. (919) 557-2237 stickboyfuquay.com

Wingin’ It Bar and Grille

Hearty fare and tasty treats.

1625 N. Main St., Suite 109 (919) 762-0962 | winginitbarandgrille.com

Zaxby’s

Indescribably good chicken. 1341 N. Main St. (919) 552-3981 zaxbys.com

Zeera Indian

Traditional Indian cuisine adapted to the local palate. 1311 E. Broad St. (919) 762-6215 zeeranc.com

HOLLY SPRINGS

ACME Pizza Co.

Chicago-style deep dish pizza.

204 Village Walk Drive (919) 552-8800 | acmepizzaco.com

Bellini Italian Cuisine

Handcrafted food and specialty drinks. 7256 GB Alford Highway (919) 552-0303 bellinitaliancuisinehollysprings.com

The Blind Pelican

First-rate fish, shrimp, lobster, crab, oysters, and other ocean-centric delights. 120 Bass Lake Road (984) 225-2471 blindpelicanseafood.com

JT’s Creamery

Ice cream handcrafted daily.

300 S. Main St. Suite 112 (984) 268-6321 jtscreamery.com

Los Tres Magueyes

A little taste of Mexico.

325 N. Main St. (919) 552-6272 lostresmagueyes.com

Lovegrass Kitchen

Gluten-free whole foods and packaged mixes.

300 S. Main St., Suite 108 (919) 205-8426 lovegrasskitchen.com

Mama Bird’s Cookies + Cream

A unique spin on a timeless dessert.

304 N. Main St. (919) 762-7808 mamabirdsicecream.com

Mamma Mia Italian Bistro

A taste of Italy in every bite.

300 S. Main St. Suite 200 (919) 766-8000 mammamianc.com

The Mason Jar Tavern

All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.

114 Grand Hill Place (919) 964-5060 themasonjartavern.com

My Way Tavern

Freshly made all-American foods.

301 W. Center St. (919) 285-2412 mywaytavern.com

Nil’s MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE

513 E. BROAD ST., FUQUAY-VARINA (919) 567-0887 | NILSCAFEFUQUAYVARINA.COM

SINCE BECOMING the owner of Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine in the Varina business district more than a year ago, Tan Uckan has refreshed the café’s menu and décor to provide a more modern approach to dining. Patrons have embraced the changes, so much so that the eatery nabbed Main & Broad magazine’s Best Mediterranean Restaurant and Best Healthy-Dining Options honors in the 2023 Maggy Awards. In addition, Uckan’s Medi Bites food truck received Honorable Mention in the Best Food Truck category.

“We are so grateful for all the support from our loyal guests,” said Uckan, a native of Türkiye (formerly known as Turkey). “We have worked really hard to provide fresh, healthy food that is flavorful and consistent in quality.”

Off-menu weekly specials have resonated well with regulars. The inventive offerings include fork-tender braised beef short ribs with mushroom wine sauce; pan-fried grouper with roasted vegetables; and lamb chops with demi-glace, roasted cherry tomatoes, and white rice.

A front-and-center positioned display case contains perfectly flaky baklava and pistachio-laden cannoli that are always on point.

New tables and chairs, wallpaper, lighting, and a large chalkboard menu lend a warm, comfortable vibe to the dining room.

“We are now offering live music from 6–8 on Friday nights,” Uckan shared. “People are reserving tables, which is great to see.”

Nil’s is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

— David McCreary

DINING GUIDE

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi

Authentic Thai cuisine, fresh sushi, and crafted cocktails.

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

Pimiento Tea Room

Eclectic café with a rotating menu of small plates.

200 N. Main St. (984) 225-4213 pimientotearoom.com

Rise

Southern biscuits, righteous chicken, and donuts.

169 Grand Hill Place (919) 586-7343 risebiscuitschicken.com

Thai Thai Cuisine

Fresh authentic Thai food. 108 Osterville Drive (919) 303-5700 thaithaicuisinenc.com

Vieni Ristobar

Laid-back Italian fare.

242 S. Main St. (984) 225-1134 | vieniristobar.com

MORRISVILLE

Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken Unforgettable rotisserie chicken. 9575 Chapel Hill Road (919) 378-9259 | alpacachicken.com

Another Broken Egg Café

A totally egg-ceptional experience. 1121 Market Center Drive, (919) 465-1079 | anotherbrokenegg.com

Babymoon Café

Pizzas, pastas, seafood, steaks, salads, and more.

100 Jerusalem Drive, Suite 106 (919) 465-9006 babymooncafe.com

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

Outrageous burgers and beers. 3300 Village Market Place (919) 297-0953 baddaddysburgerbar.com

Jonathan Fredin

Capital City Chop House

The best steaks, seafood, and chops we can find.

151 Airgate Drive (919) 484-7721 | chophousesofnc.com

Clean Juice

Organic juices, smoothies, and more.

3035 Village Market Place (919) 468-8286

cleanjuice.com

Crumbl Cookies

Super-sized treats with a rotating menu of classic and unusual flavors.

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

Desy’s Grill & Bar

Straightforward pub grub at a relaxed sports bar.

10255 Chapel Hill Road, Suite 200 (919) 380-1617

desysbar.com

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

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

3200 Village Market Place (919) 653-0111

firebirdsrestaurants.com/morrisville/

Fount Coffee + Kitchen

Coffee bar with 100% gluten-free food.

10954 Chapel Hill Road (984) 888-5454

fountcoffee.com

Full Moon Oyster Bar and Seafood Kitchen

Fresh seafood raw, steamed, grilled, baked, or fried.

1600 Village Market Place (919) 378-9524 | fullmoonoysterbar.com

G. 58 Modern Chinese Cuisine

A contemporary approach to traditional Chinese cuisine.

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

Georgina’s Pizzeria & Restaurant

Mouthwatering homemade Italian dishes.

3536 Davis Drive (919) 388-3820 georginasrestaurantnc.com

HiPoke

Fresh fun poké.

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

Meeple’s Brew

850+ board games between two locations. 9545 Chapel Hill Road meeplesbrew.com

Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant

Mexican with a modern twist.

9605 Chapel Hill Road (919) 481-9002

1106 Grace Park Drive (919) 650-1718 micancunmx.com

Neomonde

Contemporary and traditional Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes.

10235 Chapel Hill Road #400 (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 (919) 694-5300

nothingbundtcakes.com

Piada Italian Street Food

Fast-casual Italian. 2016 Market Center Drive (919) 371-0787 mypiada.com

Rise

Southern biscuits, righteous chicken, and donuts. 1100 Market Center Drive, (919) 377-0385 risebiscuitschicken.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

Great food always, with a side of good times.

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

Taste Vietnamese Cuisine

Authentic noodles and more.

152 Morrisville Square Way (919) 234-6385 | tastevietnamesetogo.com

Village Deli & Grill

Hearty homemade foods. 909 Aviation Parkway, #100 (919) 462-6191 | villagedeli.net

Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill

Award-winning food in a non-conformist atmosphere. 3107 Grace Park Drive (919) 650-3177 woodysportstavern.com

RALEIGH

Angus Barn

Steakhouse with world-renowned service. 9401 Glenwood Ave. (919) 781-2444 angusbarn.com

Annelore’s German Bakery

Authentic. Traditional. Exceptional. 1249 Farmers Market Drive (919) 267-6846 xiy.bwf.mybluehost.me

The Big Easy Restaurant & Bar

Southern favorites. Cajun inspiration. 222 Fayetteville St. (919) 832-6082 bigeasync.com

Flying Biscuit Café

Southern-inspired menu of comfort food made with fresh ingredients. 2016 Clark Ave. (919) 833-6924 flyingbiscuit.com/locations-2/raleigh

The Pit

Authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue. 328 W. Davie St. (919) 890-4500 thepit-raleigh.com

Rey’s

Fine dining with a French Quarter flair. 1130 Buck Jones Road (919) 380-0122 reysrestaurant.com

Slice Pie Company

State Fair blue ribbon pie, whole or by the slice. 1400 S. Saunders St. (919) 349-8499 slicepiecompany.com

TOP DENTISTS

TO CREATE OUR 2023 LIST, LookWest 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

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

William C. Windley III

Cary Endodontics

3637 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 468-1435 caryendodontics.com

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 SW Cary Parkway, Suite 60, Cary (919) 467-7360 bielinskidds.com

Vanessa M. Campbell

Campbell Family Dentistry

355 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 567-7484 hollyspringsdentist.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

Ben Davis

Blue Water Pediatric Dentistry

345 Earnie Lane, Holly Springs (919) 762-7013

bluewaterpediatricdentistry.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

Rylan J. Hansen

Hansen Dentistry

800 W. Williams St., Suite 240, Apex (919) 363-8444 hansendentistryapex.com

Ed Howard

Lane & Associates

Family Dentistry

2613 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 589-0270 lanedds.com/dentist-cary-nc

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 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 100, Cary (888) 779-6401 prestondentalcenter.com

Lisa H. Mayes

Preston Dental Center 3761 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 100, Cary (888) 779-6401 prestondentalcenter.com

Kelsey T. Meunier 401 Attain St., Suite 131, Fuquay Varina (919) 887-5030 fuquayfamilydentistry.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 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 201, Cary (919) 371-4454 stanleysmiles.com

Meredith Taylor

Holly Springs Family Dentistry 190 Rosewood Centre Drive, Holly Springs (919) 290-2772 hollyspringsfamilydentistry.com

John Tomasheski

Dorion & Associates

1783 W. Williams St., Apex (919) 267-2457 ncimplantcenter.com

Robert Watson

Bass & Watson

Family Dental

1031 W. Williams St., Suite 101, Apex (919) 362-6789 myapexdentist.com

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL

William T. Benzing

Nu Image Surgical & Dental Implant Center

3600 NW 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

Gabriel W. Fritz

Central Carolina Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

2081 Shepherds Vineyard Drive, Suite 100, Apex (919) 387-3388 centralcarolinaoralsurgery.com

Bruce A. Vande Berg

Cary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

1010 High House Road, Suite 100, Cary (919) 461-0110 caryoralsurgery.com

ORTHODONTICS

Jesse Arbon Carolina Orthodontics & Children’s Dentistry

7535 Carpenter Fire Station Road, Suite 201-A, 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

2023

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

Joseph W. Pittman

Pittman Family Orthodontics

609 Attain St., Suite 151, Fuquay Varina (919) 762-3001 pittmanfamilyortho.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 SW Cary Parkway, Suite 207, Cary (919) 249-4900 wmgortho.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 SW Cary Parkway, Suite 80, Cary (919) 467-0635

carypediatricdentist.com

Cyelee Kulkarni

504 W. Williams St., Apex (919) 303-2873 littletoothco.com

Boo Lee

Blue Water Pediatric Dentistry

2106 Werrington Drive, Holly Springs (919) 762-7013

bluewaterpediatricdentistry.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 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 106, Cary (919) 468-6410 kazmerperio.com

John D. Moriarty

Cary Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

1003 High House Road, Suite 102, Cary (919) 469-9986

caryperio.com

PROSTHODONTICS

Jeffrey S. Kearney

580 New Waverly Place, Suite 110, Cary (919) 859-4778 drjeffreykearney.com

Brandon D. Kofford

Cary Prosthodontics

1400 Crescent Green, Suite 210, Cary (919) 583-6445 caryprosthodontics.com

Kevin Lim

Cary Prosthodontics

1400 Crescent Green, Suite 210, Cary (919) 583-6445 caryprosthodontics.com

Renata Camino Navarro

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

Focus: A nonsectarian, college preparatory school that integrates a traditional education with emerging technologies. “We are a

Dave Davies

Wake County Public Schools

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.

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.

WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

With 159,000 students enrolled in 198 schools as of the 2022-23 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.

10,985 classroom teachers

34.3% of teachers have advanced degrees

1,521 National Board-certified teachers, more than any other district in the US

90% High school graduation rate for 2023

AWARDS: Washington Gifted and Talented Magnet Elementary School was named the top magnet elementary school in the nation in 2023.

In 2023, 44 district schools were honored by Magnet Schools of America (MSA) with National Merit Awards. Three schools were named Top Schools of Excellence, eight named Schools of Excellence, and 33 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.

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: PreK-8 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 E. 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.

FENTON

Fenton, Cary’s newest upscale shopping destination, provides a uniquely urban, pedestrian-focused experience where shopping, dining, and entertainment offerings come together. Highlighted by two lively greenspaces, The Backyard and Fenton Square, and filled with fashionable retailers and unforgettable artwork, Fenton continues to draw guests back for more.

Cary Towne Boulevard & Trinity Road (919) 701-5300 fentonnc.com

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 NW 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

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. NC 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

Belly up

As every homeowner knows, there’s no such thing as a squirrel-proof bird feeder. This resourceful critter discovers that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line.