Local love: RALtoday’s growing guide to reader-recommended small businesses

Help us create a growing guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local makers, restaurants, and professionals, and sharing this page with a friend.

A chalkboard sign from Edge of Urge that says "Only you can keep the local economy thriving."

Support the local economy with small businesses.

Photo by RALtoday

Table of Contents

Raleighites are so good at supporting local that the Milken Institute named us the No. 5 best-performing city for business in 2026. In honor of our many movers and shakers, we’re asking readers to nominate small businesses they love so we can share them with the whole audience.

We’ll be here to share a new batch of small businesses every month, so you’ll want to come back for more, especially if you’ve enjoyed our Small Business Week and Today’s Best coverage. Submit your business or a business you love with our online form.

Editor Allie’s picks

Edge of Urge | Gift store
If this quirky store ever gets mentioned in the newsletter, it’s because of me. With an endless supply of fun items, it’s my go-to spot for a gift for a loved one or myself. Plus, Person Street Plaza has other great tenants like Wine Authorities, Yellow Dog, and So & So Books across the street.

TrunkShow | Vintage
This vintage store is a treasure trove. I especially love looking through all the home decor and finding unique pieces for my home. Plus, regular vintage markets bring in even more cool vendors.

Sound Off Records & Hi-Fi | Music
This woman-owned used music store is a lot of fun, and I love bringing in my less-loved vinyl and trading it in for new-to-me records. They even offer turntable repairs if your player has seen better days.

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