Find this CBD and THC infused bev at Trophy Brewing. | Photo by RALtoday
Goals for 2025? To be a trendsetter. The New York Times put together a list of food trend predictions for 2025, and we’re giving you the insider scoop on where to try some of these food trends in Raleigh.
Cut out the alcohol
Could we see Dry January trends throughout 2025? NYT thinks so. High seltzers are increasingly popular and local spot Trophy Brewing are meeting the demand with its Starry Eyes THC Seltzer.
Grab-and-go
It seems like we’re always on the move, and the NYT says 2025 shouldn’t be any different, so grab-and-go fare is expected to rise up the ranks. We love shopping at Giorgios Epicurean Market for local, pre-made meals and sauces + rubs.
Hospitality
NYT predicts that people will crave companionship this year, and will look for more intimate + cozy dining experiences that emphasize eating together. To experience this, you should try 2024 James Beard Hospitality finalist Crawford & Son.
I Can Buy Myself Flowers Bouquet Workshop | 6:30-7:30 p.m. | Blackbird Brewery, Wake Forest | $45 | Give yourself the gift of flowers + create your own floral arrangement.
Pals & Gals Vintage Valentine’s Party | 7-9 p.m. | City of Raleigh Museum | $23+ | Make vintage-inspired V-Day cards while sipping wine and snacking on local chocolates.
Friday, Feb. 14
Love Stories & Broken Hearts Walking Tour | Friday, Feb. 14 + Saturday, Feb. 15 | Times vary | Raleigh Walking Tours, LLC | Pay what you want | Take your sweetheart on this walking tour featuring historic local love stories — advanced registration required.
Valentine’s Day Dinner at The Merchant | 5-11 p.m. | The Merchant NC | $160 | Enjoy a five course pre-fixe dinner and cocktail pairing in a romantic atmosphere.
Saturday, Feb. 15
Galentine’s Day Market and Karaoke | 3 p.m. | Raleigh Brewing Company | Price of purchase | Shop + groove all in the same place while exploring this local pop-up market.
The Town of Cary approved rezoning for Alston Yards, a mixed-use development featuring 815 apartments, a 380-room hotel, office space, commercial areas, and a town park. The project, spanning 46 acres along NC 55, includes plans to address local traffic concerns and affordable housing. (The News & Observer)
Try This
Local maker’s market + community space Hartwell is hosting a Jazzentine’s Day event tomorrow, Feb. 14 from 4 to 9 p.m. Attendees can expect live music by the Dan Davis Trio, food from Smash Masters Burgers, plus sweet treats from Nova Dough Doughnuts.
Tech
Duke Energy is constructing a 100-megawatt battery storage facility in Knightdale to support the Triangle’s growing energy needs. The 11.3-acre project aims to expand grid capacity and enhance energy infrastructure + is slated for completion by the end of the year. (Triangle Business Journal)
Eat
A study of 97 Triangle pizzerias found Big Cheese Pizza & Wings offers the best value for a large one-topping pizza. The price is based on the pizza’s size and cost per square inch, excluding delivery fees and tips. Check out the full price comparison + more study details. (The News & Observer)
Community
The City of Raleigh launched Eproval, an online platform for applying and tracking special event permits. This system simplifies event planning by using public spaces, providing real-time status updates, and encourages collaboration to enhance communication and efficiency for organizers.
Health
Wake County and the American Heart Association are partnering to offer blood pressure monitors at six local libraries including Green Road + Richard B. Harrison. The pilot program, aimed at promoting heart health, allows residents to check out monitors for free, providing essential tools for early detection and management of blood pressure.
Travel
Raleigh, are you ready to experience the charm of Louisville? With Breeze Airways’ nonstop flights from RDU, you can immerse yourself in world-famous bourbon, thrilling horse racing, and a vibrant food scene. Fly affordably and comfortably with Breeze’s seriously nice service. Book your trip.*
Open
Diamonds Direct is relocating this fall to a stunning new 6,100 sqft showroom next to Crabtree. But don’t worry — you can still find Valentine’s Day gifts at their current location in the meantime. Stay updated on the grand opening this way.*
Home
How much did you spend on home repairs last year? The average homeowner shells out nearly $6,000 annually on upkeep — but some of these costs can be offset by a home warranty. American Home Shield is now offering $150 off their plans. See important disclaimers on web.*
Category
Outdoors
🐦 Look out, look out wherever you are
Keep a lookout for North Carolina’s state bird. | Photo by RALtoday
Look up, what do you see? The Great Backyard Global Bird Count is a global event spanning four days where people spend time observing, learning, counting, and celebrating birds. This year’s count takes flight from tomorrow, Feb. 14 to Monday, Feb. 17.
Whether you’re flying alone or soaring with others, here’s how to start:
First, decide where you will watch birds by checking out one of Oak City’s many parks.
Next, watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once during four day event.
Lastly, identify all the birds you see or hear and share your sightings on apps like Merlin Bird ID if you’re a beginner or eBird Mobile for intermediate to pro watchers.
Bonus: If you want to bird watch in a community atmosphere, William B. Umstead State Park is hosting a watch event on Saturday, Feb. 15.
The Buy
The Buy
Le Creuset’s Signature Round Dutch Oven in the color Berry. In case you haven’t heard the news, this popular hue is back after being discontinued in 2019 — and the internet is freaking out. It’s also available in the Signature Oval Dutch Oven. Grab it before it’s gone again.
If you try the Mac ‘N’ Smashed burger, add bacon to take the flavor up a notch. | Photo by RALtoday
The gloomy weather this week has me craving comfort food. My go-to meal is a burger and fries, so I tried Smashed Burgers & Cocktails, a casual burger spot in Holly Springs. I ordered the Cali burger, and it didn’t disappoint. Pro tip: Ask about the cocktail of the month — it’s usually cheaper.
}})
