🏡 Your all-in-one path to “home sweet home”
Presented by Coastal Credit Union
Photos by RALtoday
Buying real estate often feels like a relay race. Too many handoffs. Too many moving parts.
That’s why Coastal Credit Union and Daymark Realty keep everything under one roof, simplifying your journey from financing to move-in.
Whether you’re looking for your first place, upsizing, or just relocating to North Hills, their integrated team is here to help every step of the way.
đź’¸ Low rates, real guidance
You’ll start by connecting with one of Coastal Credit Union’s dedicated mortgage loan officers, who provide personalized guidance on everything from rates to refinancing.
They’ll help you choose the right mortgage, get pre-approved, and move forward with clarity — no pressure, no guesswork. (Loan subject to approval. Member eligibility required.)
🔑 Finding your “yes”
From there, Daymark Realty becomes your go-to resource.
As Coastal’s in-house real estate team, their experienced agents will already be familiar with your individual needs, and can help negotiate, spot value, and avoid costly errors.
You’ll have someone right there with you for the final paperwork, final walkthrough, and finally, keys in hand.
Liberation Station, North Carolina’s first Black-owned children’s bookstore, celebrated its grand reopening on Hill Street in Raleigh on Monday in front of a large crowd. Supporters can donate online through the store’s GoFundMe or join the membership program to help sustain the bookstore. (CBS17)
Coming Soon
Raleigh’s getting a new sushi spot. Shinjuku Station, known for its rotating sushi bar, is set to open at Capital Marketplace in northeast Raleigh. This would be the chain’s second NC location, joining High Point, with more planned across the state. The menu features nigiri, specialty rolls, and classic sushi favorites. (Triangle Business Journal)
Speaking of the holiday… city offices will be closed on Jan. 1. Triangle grocery stores are adjusting hours too — some close early on Dec. 31 or stay closed on New Year’s Day, so check this list before you go. (The News & Observer)
Environment
Give your Christmas tree a second life. Wake County Parks is accepting undecorated holiday trees for mulch through Jan. 31. Drop them off at designated locations — just note all facilities will be closed on New Year’s Day, Jan. 1.
Eat
Who’s making a comeback in Raleigh’s restaurant scene? From 42nd Street Oyster Bar to other local favorites, 2026 is shaping up to be a year of delicious returns. Check out the Triangle Business Journal’s roundup of the most anticipated restaurant comebacks. (Triangle Business Journal)
Jobs
240,000+. That’s how many active job listings you can find on our Job Board. Explore openings in healthcare, education, manufacturing, and beyond. Roles for all experience levels are hiring now. Find a new gig for 2026.
Featured Deal
Psst — choose between a free Nighttime Nourisher or High Dose Hero with any purchase of Canary’s science-backed supplements until tomorrow, December 31. Think: waking up rested with energy, easing joint pain the natural way, or optimizing urinary tract health.*
Number
$0. That’s how much 94% of patients pay to see a licensed dietitian with Nourish. Find a dietitian covered by insurance and build a personalized nutrition plan — a structured, supportive way to map out your 2026 wellness goals now.*
Mecca is a family-owned Southern comfort food staple in Raleigh since the 1930s. | Photo by @themeccarestaurant
Raleigh may be over 230 years old, but its oldest restaurants keep the city’s soul alive. Here’s a look at some of the longest-standing spots still serving today.
Mecca is located just a few blocks from the NC State Capitol and has long been known to serve NC politicians Southern classics. In 2014, the building housing the restaurant was named a historic landmark.
Clyde Cooper’s feels like a step back in time, with its stainless steel counter, wooden booths, and historic photos. The longtime spot has racked up a slew of awards and serves classic Eastern Carolina–style barbecue with a vinegar-based sauce.
Bonus: Celebrate 88 years at the longtime shop before it moves from its downtown location with a Southern-style buffet on New Year’s Day. Tickets are available online and at the door, plus there’s a “Donate a Plate” option to help someone enjoy a meal on New Year’s Day.
Ten minute daily language lessons, on sale for 65% off with Babbel’s New Year’s Sale. Unlock expert-built lessons, podcasts, and speaking practice to make learning a new language feel easy and actually stick — it’s a smart way to kick off the year with a habit you’ll be proud you started.*
It’s good to be back, RAL — hope you’re not sick of restaurant news. Over the holiday, we splurged for my husband’s 30th at Crawford Brothers Steakhouse, and it was a dream from start to finish — steakhouse rolls with whipped butter, tallow fries with truffle aioli, and main courses like Prime New York Strip and Faroe Island Salmon with truffled potato risotto. Word is, I need to come back for the chocolate cake.
Highly recommend for your next celebration — but make sure to book a reservation.