Sunday, September 25, 2011
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
The Votes Are In … Readers of The Pilot Select Moore County’s Best This August, we asked The Pilot’s readers to let us know what they liked best about Moore County. In nearly 70 categories, ranging from the best barbecue (The Pik N Pig) to best hardware store (Burney’s Hardware Co.), our readers told us which restaurants, businesses and services are the best Moore County has to offer. The response was tremendous. Hundreds of ballots flooded into The Pilot’s office in response to the Readers’ Choice Best of Moore County 2011 contest, which was open to all readers of the newspaper. We thank our readers for helping us put together this section that highlights the best of our community. We thank our advertisers for continuing to support The Pilot. We also congratulate the winners. You’ve worked hard to earn the title, so sit back, bask in the limelight and continue doing whatever it is that you’ve been doing. Obviously, our
readers think it’s working. The votes have been counted, the numbers tallied and the readers have spoken. Following are the businesses and categories that were voted by readers of The Pilot as the best in Moore County for 2011.
Food and Drink Places BEST BREAKFAST Mac’s Breakfast Anytime Whether you get up early for breakfast or choose to enjoy your sausage and eggs later in the day, readers of The Pilot say Mac’s Breakfast Anytime continues to be the county’s best place for breakfast. Served up fresh, hot and made-to-order, the breakfast menu at
Thanks Moore County For Voting…
see BEST, page 3
DOWNTOWN PINEHURST
(Best Thing To Show Out Of Town Guests) AND
CANNON PARK/CAMELOT PLAYGROUND (Best Park)
“Best In Moore 2011”
Pinehurst Parks and Recreation Department 395 Magnolia Rd. • Village of Pinehurst • 910-295-2817 www.villageofpinehurst.org parks&rec@villageofpinehurst.org
HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot
Readers of The Pilot say Robyn James and the folks at The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room offer the county’s best wine selection.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
Best From Page 2 Mac’s Breakfast Anytime ranges from eggs and bacon to pancakes, grits and oatmeal with plenty of hot coffee to wash it all down. RUNNERS-UP: Cracker Barrel • Sizzlin’ Steak or Eggs
BEST HAMBURGER The Squire’s Pub What does an authentic British pub know about the all-American favorite hamburger? Quite a bit, apparently. While the majority of the fare at Squire’s Pub features delights from across the pond, their Revolutionary Burger reminds us why we fought to win our independence. RUNNERS-UP: Cook Out • Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge
BEST ICE CREAM Cold Stone Creamery I scream. You scream. We all scream for ice cream, and readers know that if it has anything to do with ice cream, it has everything to do with Cold Stone Creamery. With unique ice cream creations to smoothies, shakes and cakes, and flavors that range from vanilla bean, chocolate and banana to bubble gum,
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. cake batter and cotton candy, it’s no wonder Moore County screams for Cold Stone Creamery’s ice cream. RUNNERS-UP: Dairy Queen • The Ice Cream Parlor
BEST SWEET TEA Ledo Pizza
BEST CUP OF COFFEE Starbucks
According to Wikipedia, coffee is a widely consumed stimulant beverage prepared from roasted seeds of the coffee plant, commonly called coffee beans. This basic definition of coffee in no way describes the experience of sipping a skinny vanilla latte or caramel macchiato from Starbucks. Voted the home of the county’s best cup of coffee, Starbucks offers an extensive and sometimes exotic selection of coffees. Of course, for the purists, one can always enjoy a basic cup, black. RUNNERS-UP: Mac’s Breakfast HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot Anytime • Larry Russell, owner of Russell’s Seafood McDonald’s
In a bit of an upset, a newcomer has unseeded a perennial winner in this highly competitive category. Although Bojangles’ version is referred to as “legendary,” Ledo Pizza is now the place to go in the county to clinch one’s thirst for a truly sublime serving of the Southern-staple beverage, according to The Pilot’s readers. While this pizzeria specializes in pasta, square pizza pies and and Southern Buffet, offers the best senior chicken wings, it also clearly places some special, according to readers of The Pilot. BEST PIZZA serious focus on Ledo Pizza serving up a consistently satisfying glass of icecold sweet tea. When it comes to concocting the perfect RUNNERS-UP: McDonald’s • Bojangles blend of cheese, homemade dough and tomato sauce, there is a new sheriff in town.
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With its square-style rolled crust and thick pepperoni, Ledo serves up a pie worthy to write home about. As a result, it has won over the voters’ taste buds this year, making it The Pilot readers’ top choice for pizza in the county. Whether it’s to pick up up a large pie to share with the family at home or to savor the flavor while dining out on a date, Ledo is the smart bet. Oh, and don’t forget to wash it down with its 2011 “Best of” sweet tea. RUNNERS-UP: Vito’s Ristorante and Pizzeria • Mellow Mushroom
BEST SALAD BAR Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge No trip to Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge — the longtime downtown Southern Pines’ dining institution — is considered complete without at least one trip to its celebrated salad bar. With more tasty toppings and veggie choices then you can shake a stick at, the only problem may be deciding what to include in your bowl and how to make it all fit and arrive safely back to the table. Back at your table, you are certain to be satisfied as every selection on the bar is fresh and of high quality. But, be careful or you may not have any room remaining for the main course. RUNNERS-UP: Ruby Tuesday Restaurant • The Lob Steer Inn
see BEST, page 4
The Pik-N-Pig family would like to extend our sincere thanks to our loyal customers who voted for us in the Best of Moore contest. Your continued support has made our business more successful than we dared to dream.
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Best
Chicken ’n Bar-B-Q
From Page 3
BEST BARBECUE The Pik N Pig
The menu at Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge, voted by readers as the best dessert in Moore County, lists the delectable dessert choices under the heading Sweet Thoughts. And, oh, how sweet it is! Mississippi fudge cake, lime sherbert, French silk pie, hot pecan pie, chocolate nut sundae, Grace’s homemade coconut cream pie … need we go on? There also is a low-carb, low-sugar cheesecake for those who want a bite of sweet without the calories. RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Ledo Pizza
The Pik N Pig was voted as having the county’s best barbecue. Proving that it is all about the meat, the barbecue at The Pik N Pig is hickory-smoked until it is melt-in-your-mouth tender. The wood-fired meat is extra juicy with an intense flavor that stands on its own. However, if you feel the need to add a bit of sauce, The Pik N Pig has two types to choose from, a vinegar-based hot and spicy barbecue sauce and a tomato-based, honey barbecue sauce. But, before you squirt on the sauce, taste the meat and discover for yourself why it was voted as the county’s best. RUNNERS-UP: Smithfield’s Chicken ’n BarB-Q • Dickey’s Barbecue Pit
BEST FRIED CHICKEN
BEST STEAKS
KFC
Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge
It doesn’t matter how you fry it — KFC of Southern Pines is the winner for the best fried chicken for the sixth year in a row. Whether you prefer original recipe, extra crispy, grilled, legs, thighs, wings, breasts, chicken strips, barbecue sandwiches or some of their delicious homestyle sides, readers of The Pilot say that nobody does fried chicken better. The Colonel would be proud. RUNNERS-UP: Lowes Foods • Smithfield’s
With a name like Beefeater’s, you can be sure they know a thing or two about beef. According to the readers of The Pilot, Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge not only understands beef, but also has served up the county’s best steaks six years running. The only tough thing you’ll encounter at Beefeater’s is the decision of trying to choose between the filet mignon, the ribeye, the New York strip or the Beefeater’s broil.
BEST DESSERT Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge
2011 BEST OF MOORE COUNTY CASH PRIZE WINNERS Congratulations to Martha Jack, of Pinehurst, and Phylis McCrimmon, of Southern Pines. These lucky ladies were the winners of the two $50 cash prizes awarded as part of the 2011 Readers’ Choice Best of Moore County contest.
Zwiebel’s Auto Repair, Inc.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011 RUNNERS-UP: Outback Steakhouse • The Lob Steer Inn
BEST WINGS Ledo Pizza So the votes have been tallied, and Ledo Pizza has the best wings in the county this year, according to The Pilot’s voters. With three types, in plain, buffalo-style and barbecue, this pizza joint located in Southern Pines has a wing choice for everyone. No need to worry about any scrimping either, because Ledo Pizza’s wings are well-known for their jumbo size. Should you go with barbecue and the sauce has some kick — relax ‚ Ledo’s sweet tea was also voted as the best in the county this year and works as a quick and enjoyable way to quell the heat. RUNNERS-UP: Hickory Tavern • Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge
BEST MEXICAN FOOD San Felipe Restaurante Mexicano The colorful atmosphere and delicious authentic, homemade Mexican cuisine have attracted a lot of attention from The Pilot’s readers, who voted San Felipe Restaurante Mexicano as the best Mexican restaurant in Moore County five years in a row. San Felipe’s menu features favorites like tacos, enchiladas,
see BEST, page 5
®
12 Month 12,000 Mile Warranty
ALL TYPES OF AUTO REPAIR
THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR S HOP Computerized Alignment • NC State Inspections 27 Years - Same Location • One Year Warranty On All Repairs Foreign and Domestic Cars
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
PAGE 5
Best From Page 4 burritos, fajitas, quesadillas and tamales, as well as combination dinners and speciality dishes, all of which are served in a casual setting that is suitable for the entire family. RUNNERS-UP: Casa Garcia • Casa Mexicana
BEST SEAFOOD Bonefish Grill
With a menu marked by its distinct assortment of fish selections, Bonefish Grill offers the best seafood in Moore County, according to The Pilot’s readers. With a wide variety of grilled specialties that span the globe — from Alaskan halibut to Norwegian trout — along with numerous baked and sauteed items, the restaurant is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of seafood lovers. All fish is market fresh and comes prepared with one of several signature sauces. Other items include handheld fare, soups and salads. RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Shucker’s, Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge • Mama’s Kitchen
BEST ASIAN FOOD Thai Orchid
HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot
Dave Whitney, owner of Mac’s Breakfast Anytime, flips some eggs on the grill. Mac’s once again earned the top spot as the county’s best place for breakfast. County can be found at the family-owned Thai Orchid. The authentic Thai menu includes specialties like Bangkok chicken or duck, and has three levels of heat: hot, spicy and Thai. You’ll need to cut the heat with a traditional Thai beer or a creamy, spiced Thai iced tea. And while we love the food, personally, it’s the swan-shaped carrots that always make us smile. RUNNERS-UP: China Buffet • Mt. Fuji Japanese Steakhouse
Readers say the best Asian food in Moore
see BEST, page 6
About This Issue: The Readers’ Choice Best of Moore County section is published by The Pilot annually. On the Cover: Golfers play Pinehurst No. 2. The legendary course was voted by readers of The Pilot as the county’s best golf course. Cover Photography Hannah Sharpe Photography Hannah Sharpe and Glenn M. Sides Cover and Supplement Design/Layout Martha J. Henderson, Special Sections Editor Special thanks to F.W. Manning II for his contributions to the section. For advertising information, contact Pat Taylor at (910) 693-2505 or email advertise@thepilot.com
145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387 (910) 692-7271 • thepilot.com
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
Best From Page 5
BEST ITALIAN FOOD Ledo Pizza
Not only do The Pilot’s readers believe Ledo Pizza has the county’s best pizza, wings and sweet tea, they also gave this popular Southern Pines restaurant the nod for having Moore’s top Italian food. Ledo Pizza offers all the classics like chicken parmesan, fettuccine alfredo, spaghetti and cheese tortellini. It also provides some interesting twists on traditional dishes, such as the “Tortellini Fresnoâ€? and “Ledo Lasagna.â€? On top of all that, the establishment also bakes a seriously satisfying calzone and stromboli. RUNNERS-UP: Vito’s Ristorante and Pizzeria • Olive Garden
BEST BUFFET Golden Corral
When you’re hungry for all-you-can-eat, head to Golden Corral. With everything from steak, rotisserie chicken, fish and pork chops to side dishes, fresh salad fixings, fruit, cookies, cakes and fresh-baked yeast rolls, Golden Corral has something for every palate with quantities large
see BEST, page 7
HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot
Although it’s the new kid on the block, Ledo Pizza made an impressive debut this year, winning top recognition in 10 Best of categories, including Best Sweet Tea, Best Pizza, Best Wings, Best Italian Food, Best Catering, Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant, Best Friendly Service, Best Lunch Under $10, Best Fast Lunch, Best All-Around Restaurant. Above, Lia Brazile serves up a meat lover’s pizza, one of the more popular dishes at Ledo Pizza in Southern Pines.
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
Best From Page 6 enough to satisfy any size appetite. And with such a huge array of food choices, odds are the Golden Corral buffet is not only the best in Moore County, but also the biggest. RUNNERS-UP: Russell’s Seafood and Southern Buffet • Mama’s Kitchen
BEST BAKERY Broad Street Bakery and Cafe There is nothing quite like the taste of freshbaked bread and pastry, and our readers say the best place in Moore County to find these delicacies is Broad Street Bakery and Cafe. From bagels and pastries to sandwiches and cakes, Broad Street Bakery and Cafe is the place to go. RUNNERS-UP: The Bakehouse and Cafe • Panera Bread
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. three salad choices, four sandwich platter options, five different appetizers, box lunches and a brownie tray. RUNNERS-UP: Talbert’s Catering • Jordan’s Catering
BEST FAST FOOD Wendy’s Readers of The Pilot have chosen Wendy’s as the best place for fast food in the county. With a promise that “quality” is their recipe, Wendy’s promises it uses the freshest premium toppings on burgers that are “never frozen,” but fresh grilled and cooked to order, customizable to the customers’ wishes. With famous staples on the menu, such as the “Single,” “Carolina Classic,” “Spicy Chicken Sandwich” and the “Frosty,” it seems people know exactly what to expect when they make their way to Wendy’s for fast food and apparently they keep coming back again and again for more. RUNNERS-UP: Chick-fil-A • Cook Out
BEST COUNTRY-STYLE COOKING
BEST CATERING
Cracker Barrel
Ledo Pizza
Whether it’s buttermilk biscuits and gravy, meatloaf and mashed potatoes, corn muffins and turnip greens or baked apple dumpling, Cracker Barrel has got the country-style cooking the people of Moore County crave the most this year. As a result, The Pilot’s readers have chosen Cracker Barrel as the county’s best
Whether it’s a massive pizza party for an end-of-season sports banquet or a special finedining event, featuring quality, high-end Italian cuisine, readers of The Pilot say the county’s best catering choice is Ledo Pizza. The expansive menu includes five “Italian Favorites,”
PAGE 7
HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot
Shoppers stroll down Broad Street in Southern Pines, which was once again chosen by readers of The Pilot as the county’s best community/town. place to go when the cravin’ hits for some country-style cooking. Be it breakfast, lunch or dinner, when it comes to capturing the downhome feel, taste and atmosphere — expected to accompany delicious, country-style cooking at its best — Cracker Barrel seems to have nailed it. RUNNERS-UP: The Pik N Pig • Russell’s
Seafood and Southern Buffet
BEST DELI/SANDWICH SHOP Subway According to the readers of The Pilot, Subway
see BEST, page 8
PAGE 8
Best From Page 7
is this year’s best deli/sandwich shop in the county. At Subway, the service is fast, the bread and sandwich ingredients are fresh, and there is always a healthy variety of menu options to choose from. Not to be forgotten is the $5 dollar foot long, including seven sandwich choices that will fill your stomach without emptying your wallet. Other menu favorites include the salads, cookies and hot sandwiches (e.g., meatball sub all-the-way.) RUNNERS-UP: Panera Bread • Wedgies
BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT Ledo Pizza
One word, when uttered, that garners (most) all kids’ attention is pizza. As this year’s “best of” winner in said category, it is not too hard to understand why this year The Pilot’s readers have picked Ledo Pizza as the best kid-friendly restaurant in the county. With a kids’ menu that offers a wide array of choices, even the most finicky children should find some acceptable dining option to order. Plus every option is served with a dessert treat and one side. RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • (tie) McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A
BEST SENIOR SPECIAL Russell’s Seafood and Southern Buffet Because of the number of retired persons who call Moore County home, many local restaurants offer specials to attract the senior clientele. With so many options to choose from, readers of The Pilot say Russell’s Seafood and Southern Buffet in Southern Pines has the best senior special in the county. The restaurant’s senior discount is available to seniors 55 and over. A Sandhills tradition, Russell’s Seafood and Southern Buffet offers both buffet and menu service, featuring seafood, barbecue and so much more. RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Bojangles, Mac’s Breakfast Anytime • Golden Corral
BEST FRIENDLY SERVICE Ledo Pizza Notch yet another “Best of” win for Ledo Pizza, as The Pilot’s readers have voted it as having the best friendly service. The staff at Ledo Pizza is always attentive, pleasant and anxious to enhance your dining experience. Whether it is cleaning up a dropped drink, making sure orders are correct or simply offering a smile and warm welcome, the servers at this popular pizza parlor seemingly always go out of their way to be downright nice. RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
BEST LUNCH UNDER $10 Ledo Pizza The Pilot’s readers have spoken and according to their votes, Ledo Pizza has the Best Lunch Under $10 in the county. With an eight-inch personal pizza, 10-plus sandwiches, calzones and much more to choose from at lunch, all coming in under $10, it is easy to understand how the voting swung in favor of Ledo Pizza for this particular category. RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • The Lunch Box That Rocks
BEST FAST LUNCH Ledo Pizza The Pilot’s readers have named Ledo Pizza as the best fast lunch in the county. If you have a limited amount of time, yet still want this year’s “Best of” pizza, Italian food, friendly service and kid-friendly restaurant — as voted by The Pilot’s readers — then Ledo Pizza is the place for you. Tons of choices confront you, including several specialty pizzas, subs, ciabatta sandwiches, salads, calzones and stromboli. There are so many that if you are really pressed for time, you might want to sneak a peek at the menu beforehand. RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Wendy’s
BEST ALL-AROUND RESTAURANT Ledo Pizza Ledo Pizza is much more than just a pizzeria. It is also great place to bring the kids and is capable of catering nearly any event. Ledo Pizza’s menu has a wide variety of classic Italian dishes, as well as calzones and stromboli. Also available to order are several subs, ciabattas and an array of appetizers. When you throw in its tasty sweet tea, reasonable pricing and friendly, fast service, it is no wonder that Ledo Pizza won this year’s title of Moore County’s best all-around restaurant. RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge
BEST BEER SELECTION Hickory Tavern The Hickory Tavern is this year’s winner for best beer selection, according to The Pilot’s readers. With a craft beer, import beer, discovery beer and overall beer of the month, this place takes the brewed alcoholic beverage quite seriously. Other regular spotlight specials include a bartender’s choice of the month and brewery spotlight of the month. The beer menu is almost too comprehensive and detailed to grasp on your first visit. However, have no fear, you are bound to find your old standby. Plus, Hickory Tavern categorizes its brews into styles, including ales, ambers, fruits, stouts and lagers. The draft selection is impressive, as is the overall
see BEST, page 9
HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot
The friendly, helpful staff at The Country Bookshop, including Kimberly Daniels, manager, above, and the wide selection of fiction, nonfiction and children’s books available, as well as the opportunity to meet authors and established writers, has once again earned the Sandhills literary landmark recognition as the best bookstore in Moore County.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
Best From Page 8 selection and Hickory Tavern has just added more than 30 beers to the mix. RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub; Mellow Mushroom
BEST WINE SELECTION The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room In addition to offering the best wine selection in Moore County, The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room is a place to meet with friends, to buy (often at fire-sale prices) bottles of vino, or to find out anything you ever wanted to know about the fruit of the vine. RUNNERS-UP: The Barn • Squire’s Pub and Restaurant
BEST MARGARITA Chili’s Although this nationwide food franchise might best be known for its baby back ribs, according to The Pilot’s readers, Chili’s mixes the best margarita in Moore County. With six tempting choices on the rocks and three flavors of the frozen variety, it seems the possibilities involving this spirited concoction are endless at Chili’s. RUNNERS-UP: San Felipe Restaurante
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. Mexicano; Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge
About Town BEST LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Hickory Tavern For the best live entertainment in Moore County, The Pilot’s readers feel you get the most delight per dollar at Hickory Tavern. The Hickory Tavern has a large dining area, as well as a spacious high-top section bar side. With a huge list of beers and spirits on the drink menu, it provides the perfect environment to relax, unwind and enjoy good music and crowdpleasing karaoke. Each Friday, the Hickory Tavern brings in a DJ to start the night right and that is followed by karaoke. Saturday night is for booked bands with gigs starting near 10 p.m. RUNNERS-UP: Pure Gold • The Jefferson Inn
BEST CLUB Broad Street Bar and Grill For quite some time now, Broad Street Bar and Grill has been a popular spot for its members to hang out, after work and before they make their way home or just to check in with friends and have a drink while finding out the latest scuttlebutt. With an expansive patio section outside, which includes a full sit-down
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PAGE 9
bar, along with billiards, darts, dancing and video games inside, Broad Street Bar and Grill has been voted by readers of The Pilot as this year’s best club in Moore County. RUNNERS-UP: Neville’s • Pinehurst Country Club
challenge. Many players consider it a privilege to play the course, and many Moore Countians consider the legendary Pinehurst No. 2 the best golf course all around. RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Pinehurst No. 4, Legacy Golf Links • Mid-Pines Inn and Golf Club
BEST BAR
BEST ART GALLERY
Hickory Tavern
The Artist Gallery of Southern Pines (Formerly Artist Alley)
Try to find a parking spot at Hickory Tavern on a Saturday night — or a table for that matter — and you will get a sense of why The Pilot’s readers voted it as the best bar in the county. Any and every live sporting event you could hope to see is shown live on one of the bar’s countless wide-screen televisions, making it an ideal spot to follow your favorite hometown team in the big game. Maybe live entertainment is more your thing, or karaoke is what you dig the most; well, this place has both those bases covered and more. With a stunning beer selection, a massive food menu and two outside dining areas, it is clear the Hickory Tavern is more than your everyday run-of-the-mill bar. RUNNERS-UP: Neville’s • (tie) The Bell Tree, Squire’s Pub and Restaurant
BEST GOLF COURSE Pinehurst No. 2 In the golfing world, each golf course has its own features that make it unique. Pinehurst No. 2 is world-renowned for its design and
Voted the county’s best art gallery by readers of The Pilot, The Artist Gallery of Southern Pines showcases affordable artwork created by North Carolina artists. The Artist Gallery of Southern Pines offers a wide range of works, from pottery to jewelry, painting to collage, sculpture to glass, in a casual and relaxed environment. RUNNERS-UP: Broadhurst Gallery • Campbell House
BEST INN/HOTEL The Carolina Hotel From sitting on a rocker on its gracious porch or strolling its impeccable grounds to dining on haute cuisine or planning a weekend getaway, the Carolina Hotel offers all of the charms of a bygone era when elegance defined grand hotels. With its charm and hospitality, the Queen of the South welcomes with true Southern style, and Moore Countians voted the
see BEST, page 10
1
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1704 N. Sandhills Blvd. US #1 • Aberdeen
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
Best
Park in Southern Pines
From Page 9
BEST HALFWAY HOUSE
National Historical Landmark the county’s best inn/hotel. RUNNERS-UP: Hampton Inn and Suites • The Jefferson Inn
BEST SCHOOL Pinecrest High School
The mission of Pinecrest High School is to ensure its graduates are inquiring, knowledgeable, respectful and caring citizens of a global community. As faculty and students work together to achieve this goal, readers of The Pilot acknowledged the goal by voting Pinecrest High School as the county’s best school. RUNNERS-UP: Sandhills Community College • Union Pines High School
BEST PUBLIC PARK Camelot Playground at Cannon Park
Kids can let their imaginations run free at Camelot Playground at Cannon Park. Whether they are playing at being King Arthur or a swashbuckling pirate, this playground is chockfull of swings, slides, tires and ropes for hours of fun. RUNNERS-UP: Reservoir Park • Downtown
Pinehurst No. 6 While secondary to any round of golf, a halfway house with that certain mix of charm, convenience and class will stay in a player’s mind long after a round in the same fashion a well-struck approach shot to a tightly guarded flagstick does. According to readers of The Pilot, the halfway house at Pinehurst No. 6 must have perfected that important mixture because it was voted as the best halfway house in the county. With a small grill, conveniently located right at the turn behind the ninth hole’s green, it provides golfers with a well-needed breather as a place to refuel before embarking on one of the most challenging back nines in the Sandhills. RUNNERS-UP: Country Club of North Carolina • Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club
RUNNERS-UP: Pinehurst • Aberdeen
fresh seasonal produce from around the country. RUNNERS-UP: Fresh Market • Lowes Food
BEST THING TO SHOW OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS
BEST PRO SHOP
Downtown Pinehurst
The Pro Shop at Pinehurst
While Pinehurst is best known for its worldclass golf courses, locals know “the home of American golf” has so much more to offer, including a village center full of New England charm and Southern hospitality, elegant accommodations and historic homes, all nestled beneath majestic pine trees amid a quiet and tranquil atmosphere. That’s why readers of The Pilot say the best thing to show out-of-town guests in the county is downtown Pinehurst. RUNNERS-UP: Sandhills Horticultural Gardens • Downtown Southern Pines
The customer service and outstanding inventory of golf equipment offered by The Pro Shop at Pinehurst is what makes amateur players and touring pros alike return. They all know they can rely on The Pro Shop at Pinehurst to carry the latest golf clubs and equipment to help improve a weak swing, and to assist you in making the most of every round. They’ve got what you need to look stunning and play better than ever. RUNNERS-UP: Robert’s Golf Shop • National Golf Club
Services
BEST GOLF STORE
BEST COMMUNITY/TOWN
BEST GROCERY STORE
Southern Pines
Harris Teeter
Southern Pines is a wonderful little cosmopolitan oasis surrounded by horse farms and golf courses. Tree-lined streets, quaint homes and the marvelously eclectic and very interesting cross section of people who call Southern Pines home all blend nicely, giving the town its charm and character. That’s why readers of The Pilot once again voted Southern Pines as the county’s best community/town.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
Harris Teeter is more than just a neighborhood food market — it’s been voted the best grocery store in Moore County for its friendly service and great selections at just the right prices. Harris Teeter offers deli-cut meats, cheese, prepared meals and sandwiches in the deli, a bakery filled with mousses, trifles, tortes, cakes and parfaits, and fresh-cut beef, chicken, pork and market-fresh seafood, along with
Robert’s Golf Shop Fore! Robert’s Golf Shop in Aberdeen has been voted the best golf shop in Moore County for the sixth year in a row. In an area known for its predilection for golf, a golf shop must offer clubs, clothes and other equipment essential for avid golfers, and Robert’s Golf Shop has hit another hole-in-one by offering everything golf. RUNNERS-UP: Golf Augusta • The Pro Shop at Pinehurst
see BEST, page 11
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
PAGE 11
Pilot’s readers voted Burney Hardware Co. the best for the sixth year in a row. RUNNERS-UP: Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse • Seven Lakes Hardware and Building Supply
Best From Page 10
BEST BOOKSTORE
BEST PET STORE
The Country Bookshop
PetSmart
A literary landmark in the Sandhills for more than 50 years, The Country Bookshop is one of the most successful independent bookstores in the South. They offer a wide selection of fiction, nonfiction and children’s books, and the opportunity to meet authors and established writers. And the friendly, knowledgeable staff is always happy to special order any book you can’t find in the shop. RUNNERS-UP: Waldenbooks • Tucker Jo’s Used Books
You can find something for all of your furred, feathered, finned or scaled friends at PetSmart. You can even bring your pets along so they can pick out their very own toys and treats. And with grooming services, excellent obedience training and veterinary care, it’s no wonder voters selected PetSmart as the best pet store five years in a row. RUNNERS-UP: The Cared for Canine and Cat • (tie) Robin’s Nest • Aberdeen Supply Co.
BEST NURSERY/LANDSCAPING
BEST BANK BB&T
Gulley’s
Welcome to planet Gulley’s. Walk through its park-like nursery and you’ll find almost every form of flora you need for your yard and home. From simple ground cover to exotic flowering bushes, Gulley’s will help you make your yard the best in your neighborhood. If gardening isn’t your thing, Gulley’s offers professional landscaping services to help you along. And don’t forget to stop in its Christmas shop, country store or military museum while you’re there. With its variety and helpful service,
GLENN M. SIDES/The Pilot
The enthusiasm over Cracker Barrel’s much-anticipated opening in June continues as readers of The Pilot voted the restaurant the county’s best for country-style cooking. Gulley’s has been voted the best by readers five years in a row. RUNNERS-UP: Turfscape Designs • (threeway tie) McKenzie Landscaping and Farm, Etheridge Landscape and Design/Garden Center, Town & Country Landscape Management
BEST HARDWARE Burney Hardware Co. Whether you’re looking for a hinge, a hasp or a cast-iron stove, Burney Hardware Co. has it, can get it or knows who makes it. And with such great service, it’s no wonder that The
Moore Countians work hard for their money, and they want to make sure it’s kept safe and secure. Maybe their money’s security was what readers of The Pilot had in mind when they voted BB&T as the county’s best bank for the fifth year in a row. It could also be the combination of friendly, helpful service and the availability of a large selection of financial products and services, ranging from checking
see BEST, page 12
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
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and savings accounts to loans, mortgages, investments and more for both personal and business accounts, that helped earn BB&T the top spot again. RUNNERS-UP: First Bank • State Employees Credit Union
BEST DRY CLEANERS American Cleaners Dry cleaning keeps fabrics looking new longer and extends the life of the garment. Whether it’s your favorite dress or blouse, your husband’s workshirts or your wedding dress, you don’t want to trust your dry cleaning to just anyone. According to readers of The Pilot, American Cleaners in Aberdeen is the best dry cleaners in the county, which means this is who Moore Countians trust to keep their best finery looking its best. RUNNERS-UP: The Valet Dry Cleaners • Olmsted Cleaners
BEST DAY CARE FACILITY In Loving Arms
HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot
One of the toughest decisions facing parents
see BEST, page 13
Ashley Mattingly plays with Jack Walker while his mother looks on at Camelot Playground in Pinehurst July 9. Mattingly and Walker’s mother, Allison, brought their children to the park to play and enjoy the shade. Camelot Playground at Cannon Park was selected by readers of The Pilot as the county’s best park.
Open 7 Days 11AM thru 10PM
WE ARE TRULY HONORED AND BLESSED
“Thank you”
The Best Jewelry Store in Moore County for the 2nd year in a row
Authentic Mexican Food 1840 N. Sandhills Blvd. (Hwy 1) Aberdeen, NC
San Felipe Mexican Restaurant would like to thank all of the Moore County community that voted us best Mexican restaurant 5th year in a row. It's an honor to be recognized by all the patrons of Moore County. We will continue providing the greatest dining experience so you can relax with family and friends, accompanied by friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere.
ONCE AGAIN THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!!
For voting us
910-693-2979
CHOOSE ANY OF THESE APPETIZERS as a compliment
- JALAPENOS POPPERS - NACHOS SUPREME - FRESH GUACAMOLE SALAD - CHORI QUESO - GUACAMOLE DIP - CHEESE DIP - BEEF OR CHICKEN NACHOS Some Restrictions May Apply
Kim Tucker, Owner 119 Wicker St. Sanford, NC 27330 (919) 774-4855 Mon.-Fri. 10-5:30 • Sat 10-2
This would not have happened without my wonderful staff and my customers by my side.
4 Pinecrest Plaza Southern Pines, NC 28387 (910) 692-8785 Mon.-Sat. 10-7
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011
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today is putting their child in day care. Finding a high-quality facility where your child feels safe and loved is just as daunting. Parents in Moore County know that In Loving Arms offers first-rate child care, and voted it the county’s best. RUNNERS-UP: Humpty Dumpty • Kiddie Korner Day Care
THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. rations, even give your yard a landscaping lift. For more than 30 years, Aberdeen Florist and Garden Center has offered a broad variety of plants, garden ornaments, containers, soil and amendments suited to this area and to customers’ individual tastes, whether they be minimalist, extravagant or somewhere in between. RUNNERS-UP: Carmen’s Flower Boutique • Aldena Frye Floral Designs
BEST PHARMACY Aberdeen Prescription Shoppe
Pine trees and the Sandhills are beautiful, but sticky sap, yellow pollen and gritty sand can wreak havoc on an automobile’s finish. The remedy, according to those who voted, is a trip to Par 3 Car Wash and Detail Center. Par 3 attendants work hard to make vehicles shine like new again. RUNNERS-UP: Champion Car Wash and Detail Center • (tie) Valvoline Express Care • PJ’s Auto Care
Being sick or dealing with an injury or disease can be stressful enough without the added pressure of making sure your medications work together without creating any adverse reactions. From filling prescriptions to providing health and wellness information and products, the Aberdeen Prescription Shoppe is the county’s best, according to readers of The Pilot. They know they can rely on the friendly professional staff at the Aberdeen Prescription Shoppe to put the well-being of its customers first. RUNNERS-UP: Town Center Pharmacy • Walmart Supercenter Pharmacy
BEST FLORIST
BEST BEAUTY SALON
Aberdeen Florist and Garden Center
Bamboo, A Boutique Salon
BEST CAR WASH Par 3 Car Wash and Detail Center
Aberdeen Florist and Garden Center, voted best florist in the county, is a full-service florist. They can deliver flowers locally or send them out of town, design your perfect wedding deco-
According to readers of The Pilot, Bamboo, A Boutique Salon is the best beauty salon in Moore County. Being one of four salons in North Carolina that carries the exclusive Oribe
hair care product line is not the only thing that sets Bamboo apart from the rest. The Bamboo experience is a pleasing mixture of Southern hospitality and 21st-century style. The dedicated, involved and talented staff stays upto-date on new styles, trends and techniques in order to offer its diverse clientele a wide array of hair services while staying focused on each client’s needs. RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Barbara’s Hair Team, Famous Hair • Bliss, A Salon Experience
BEST SPA The Spa at Pinehurst Relax the mind and body, rejuvenate and invigorate the spirit, and pamper and delight your senses at The Spa at Pinehurst. You’ll feel your worries melt away as you enjoy any of the 40 services this spa offers. After your service, plan on spending many hours relaxing in the hot tub or the steam rooms, or swimming in the pool. Voted Moore County’s best spa, the Spa at Pinehurst delivers what it promises: a delightfully pampering experience you’ll want to repeat. RUNNERS-UP: Euro-Body Therapies • FirstSpa
BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP Zwiebel’s Auto Repair One thing that most people figure out as they grow into adulthood is, once you find a quality
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mechanic — one you can truly trust — you better darn well hang on to him. Zwiebel’s Auto Repair, voted by the The Pilot’s readers as the best automotive shop in Moore County, is a place where you will find plenty of trustworthy mechanics. Located in Pinebluff, this longtime local garage has a large and loyal contingent of regular clientele who keep returning to rest their automobile’s well-being in the capable hands of Zwiebel’s knowledgeable and professional staff. RUNNERS-UP: Jason’s Tire and Auto • Bulloch’s Service Center
Shopping BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR ANTIQUES Russell’s Auction Service Whether you are searching for a specific piece or just like to discover hidden treasures, Russell’s Auction Service in Seven Lakes is the best place to shop for antiques in Moore County; so say readers of The Pilot. Since 1983, Russell’s Auction Service has offered an extensive and ever-changing inventory of antiques, collectibles and fine furniture to the public and dealers through estate and tag sales, consignments and auctions. RUNNERS-UP: Cameron • Medleyanna’s!
see BEST, page 14
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THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C.
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place to shop for appliances for the sixth year in a row. RUNNERS-UP: Kees Appliance Center • Sears
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR POTTERY
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR EYEWEAR
Seagrove
The Vision Center at Walmart
When it comes to purchasing the wares of the area’s talented potters, The Pilot’s readers know you can’t limit yourself to one shop. That’s why they voted Seagrove as the best place to shop for pottery. With nearly a hundred potters in a 25-mile radius, Seagrove is becoming known as the pottery capital of the world. Not only can you purchase outstanding pieces of pottery, but you also can watch the potters at work. RUNNERS-UP: Nichols Pottery Shop • Westmoore Pottery
You don’t need to have vision problems to appreciate The Vision Center at Walmart. With a wide selection of designer frames for men, women and children, sunglasses and eyeglass accessories, as well as eye examinations available by an independent doctor of optometry, it’s easy to see why readers of The Pilot voted the Vision Center at Walmart the best place to shop for eyewear in the county. RUNNERS-UP: Doctor’s Vision Center • Eye Care Associates
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR APPLIANCES
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR JEWELRY
Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse
Brenda’s Jewelers
From cooktops, microwave ovens and ranges to dishwashers, refrigerators, washers and dryers, Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse offers everyday low prices on the brands you know and trust. The selection and service offered by Lowe’s are so well known that it was voted by the readers of The Pilot as the best
For more than 30 years, Brenda’s Jewelers has been one of the most trusted names in jewelry in Moore County. Readers of The Pilot agree, voting Brenda’s Jewelers as the county’s best place to shop for jewelry. For brilliant diamonds, beautiful fine jewelry, elegant watches, treasured gifts, custom-made styles
and expert jewelry repairs, Brenda’s Jewelers helps Moore Countians celebrate their special occasions. RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Hawkins and Harkness, Fiskin & Fiskin, Inc. Jewelers • Honeycutt Jewelers
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR MEN’S CLOTHES Belk Women aren’t alone in taking pride in their appearance. Today, men don’t just grab the first thing off the rack. Men are taking an interest in fashion and the latest trends, and The Pilot readers voted Belk as the place to shop for men’s clothing. Whether they need to round out their work wardrobe, pick out a few golf shirts or fill their closets with the latest trends, Belk makes it a one-stop shop. RUNNERS-UP: Ross Dress for Less • Gentlemen’s Corner
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR WOMEN’S CLOTHES Belk Looking good has never been so easy. Belk has the season’s hottest looks in fashion and accessories. Evening wear, career clothing, the latest in trends or good old denim jeans are all found at Belk. Staying on top of the latest
Thank you, Moore County, for your continued patronage!
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011 fashions is easy when it’s all there for you. That’s why readers voted Belk as the best place to shop for women’s clothes. RUNNERS-UP: T.J. Maxx • Ross Dress for Less
BEST PLACE TO SHOP FOR CHILDREN’S CLOTHES Belk Whether they’re dressing up, hanging out, attending class or a big party, kids want to fit in. Voted the county’s best place to shop for children’s clothes, Belk carries the styles kids want at the prices that parents loves. It’s a winwin situation. RUNNERS-UP: Walmart • Ross Dress for Less
BEST PLACE FOR SHOES Shoe Carnival A new pair of shoes is always sure to bring a smile to even the sullenest of faces. With a bevy of styles to choose from in women’s, men’s, kid’s, athletic and work categories, it’s a safe bet that at Shoe Carnival — voted the best place for shoes in the county by readers of The Pilot — you will find exactly what you are looking for and more when it comes to fashionably covering up your feet. RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Belk, Rack Room Shoes • Shoe Show