Things To Do
The Third Place Coffee Shop
After the 2016 campaign, Katie lived a block away from Third Place. This was (and continues to be when we visit) our favorite coffee shop in town.
Players' Retreat
A true Raleigh institution! Katie's favorite is the Chicken Gus. Be sure to start with an order of Mimi's Sausage Dip and get a side of ranch with your homemade chips!
Village Deli and Grill
Katie rarely makes a trip to Raleigh without a stop at the Village Deli. The chicken salad cannot be missed!
Neomonde Mediterranean Raleigh
Neomonde offers a market, counter-service deli, and casual outdoor seating. Enjoy fresh dishes like shawarma, falafel, and hummus, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options.
Crawford and Son
For a top-tier dining experience, Crawford and Son offers inventive New American cuisine in a cozy, upscale setting. Reservations highly recommended.
Poole's
A Raleigh mainstay from multiple James Beard Award winning chef and owner, Ashley Christensen. Do not skip the mac and cheese! Reservations recommended.
Brewery Bhavana
Part brewery, part dim sum spot, and part flower shop, this place is unique and a local favorite. Get the char siu bao and crab fried rice!
Bida Manda
For a taste of Laotian cuisine, Bida Manda serves up flavorful, beautifully plated dishes. It’s perfect for guests looking for something unique and delicious in an upscale, yet relaxed atmosphere.
Trophy Brewing & Pizza
A local brewery with a cozy atmosphere and great pizza.
MoJoe's Burger Joint
A good place for great burgers, onion rings and boozy shakes.
Crafty Beer, Wine & Spirits
Drew joined Katie and some of her friends here the first weekend they met. Drew says it sealed the deal for him since he fit in so well with Katie's community of friends.
The Cardinal Bar
Cozy dive bar with great hot dogs and a juke box.
Goodberry's Frozen Custard
Goodberry's serves up the best frozen custard in Raleigh. Don’t miss their classic "concrete" — a frozen custard blended with toppings of your choice! Katie recommends mint chocolate chip (if it's the flavor of the day) or vanilla with Oreo and mint syrup.
North Carolina Museum of Art
A beautiful spot with a fantastic art collection and scenic walking trails.
William B. Umstead State Park
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts - great network of hiking trails.