Figulina’s new menu includes new entrees like these pan-seared scallops. | Photo by Jeff Bramwell
Figulina, one of downtown’s favorite spots for Italian, got a $20,000 kitchen renovation — including a grill and fryer — for chef-owner David Ellis to further expand appetizer + entree options.
“Handmade pasta remains our foundation, often enjoyed as a smaller, focused course — now joined by seasonal, composed dishes that reflect how we initially wanted to approach our menu,” Ellis said in a press release.
Grab a reservation to get a taste of the nduja Scotch egg, picanha steak, pan-seared scallops, and more off the new menu.
Wake County Animal Center will temporarily close starting this Friday, Jan. 16 though March 2 to complete building repairs + maintenance. During that time, there will be no animal intake or adoptions. Many dogs at the at-capacity shelter will be moved to off-site boarding, and Animal Control will still operate.
Development
A new downtown hotel may be joining the cylindrical Holiday Inn. Tidal Real Estate Partners — which is leading the Holiday Inn’s $34 million renovation — has submitted plans for a 13-story, 180-room hotel in the vacant lot next door. There’s no word yet on the potential new hotel’s branding. (Axios Raleigh)
Open
Carroll’s Kitchen, a local fave providing jobs to women in crisis, has moved just steps away into a new space on Wilmington Street, formerly home to Amitie Macaron. This weather’s got us craving a cup of chicken velvet soup and a kolache.
Eat
Chipotle will open a downtown location at the southern end of Glenwood South near Vic’s Pizzeria and Dram & Draught on May 28. With the fast-casual Mexican spot joining, Bloc[83] is now 97% leased. (Raleigh Magazine)
Coming Soon
Sauna House is set to open its $4 million bathhouse in Boylan Heights next month, the Asheville-based company’s biggest yet. With single visits starting at $50, Sauna House offers contrast therapy with cold plunge pools and saunas, and this location will offer massages for a more spa-like feel. (Triangle Business Journal)
Concert
To mark the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, Pinecone will present a live reading of the Declaration of Independence and responses from local singer-songwriters, including Rissi Palmer. Head to the Martin Marietta Center on April 10 for “Well, I Declare!” — tickets are already on sale.
Read
Raleigh’s 911 call takers are now able to send a mental health professional to someone in a mental health crisis as part of its crisis call diversion program and Raleigh CARES, Crisis Alternative Response for Empathy and Support. Read more about the program so far.
Shop
Never sacrifice comfort for style again thanks to this elevated casual cardigan. With a lightweight + layerable design, the versatile piece is perfect for year-round wear. Need something a little cozier? We love this wool blend option with gold button detailing.*
✈️ Travel trends taking off in 2026
RDU is the Triangle’s connection to 70+ nonstop destinations across the nation and globe. | Photo by Brady Lambert via Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority
The new year is here, making it a natural time to lean into wanderlust — especially if “travel more” tops your resolutions.
Inspired by Airbnb’s 2026 travel predictions, we paired next year’s biggest trends with nonstop destinations from Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Buckle up.
Max adventure, minimum commitment: Portland, Maine
Younger travelers are looking for 1-2 day getaways that offer a slew of exciting activities, so why not head north during the dog days of summer?
Touch grass at national parks: Denver
Denver puts you right atop the Rocky Mountains and not far from Arches National Park, Black Canyon National Park, and more western beauties.
The best app to learn a new language — now 65% off. With Babbel, just 10 minutes a day is enough to start speaking a new language and keep a New Year’s resolution that actually sticks. Fit bite-sized lessons, engaging podcasts, and interactive speaking practice into your morning routine, commute, or coffee break.*
I’m not a soccer fan, but the FIFA World Cup will be a blast this summer. In fact, Raleigh has direct flights to every World Cup city except Monterrey and Guadalajara — better get your tickets now.
}})
