Wilmington Magazine July/Aug 2023
Wilmington NC - The official city magazine for Wilmington, North Carolina since 2013. Wilmington Magazine is the authority on living well in Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, showcasing restaurants, home and design, arts, fashion, business and more.
Wilmington NC - The official city magazine for Wilmington, North Carolina since 2013. Wilmington Magazine is the authority on living well in Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, showcasing restaurants, home and design, arts, fashion, business and more.
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JULY / AUGUST <strong>2023</strong><br />
Revitalization<br />
of the Cotton<br />
Exchange<br />
Discover Unique<br />
Shops, Services<br />
& Entertainment<br />
Summer<br />
Fashion<br />
Light and Airy<br />
Styles for a Day<br />
Out on the Water<br />
THE COTTON<br />
EXCHANGE<br />
NHCE BILLION-<br />
DOLLAR<br />
ENDOWMENT<br />
AT HOME IN<br />
LANDFALL
2420 Morgans Ridge SE<br />
Bolivia<br />
$2,690,000<br />
One of a kind opportunity<br />
to own this waterside farm<br />
on 25 acres<br />
2208 Ocean Point Drive<br />
Landfall<br />
$1,895,000<br />
Immaculate all brick home<br />
overlooking the third green<br />
and fairway<br />
3009 Sunnybranch Drive<br />
Demarest Landing<br />
$1,685,000<br />
Community clubhouse, pool,<br />
tennis court, boathouse and<br />
nature trails<br />
803 Schloss Street<br />
Wrightsville Beach<br />
$1,499,999<br />
Classic cottage located on<br />
the desirable South end<br />
2 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Hello, summer.<br />
Bring the sweetness of the season home.<br />
167 Porters Neck Rd. (Beyond Lowe’s Shopping Center) | sugarwoodnc.com | 910.319.7779<br />
STORE HOURS: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm • Sat 10am-3pm<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 1
custom window treatments, bedding, furniture & more<br />
fabrics and trims to customize your home<br />
7016 B Market St, <strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC • 910-686-2950 • Monday–Saturday from 10am to 5pm<br />
ArteeFabricsAndHome.com<br />
2 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Relax & Enjoy the Flavor<br />
of Havana’s Restaurant<br />
Thanks for Voting us<br />
Best Sunday Brunch!<br />
DINNER &<br />
SUNDAY BRUNCH<br />
Open daily at 3pm and we serve<br />
Sunday Brunch 10am-1pm<br />
Serving fresh seafood,<br />
scratch-made pastas and<br />
hand-cut steaks with indoor<br />
and outdoor dining options.<br />
1 N. Lake Park Boulevard, Carolina Beach | 910-458-2822 | havanasrestaurant.com<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 3
INDULGE<br />
your palate<br />
&<br />
your passions<br />
© <strong>2023</strong> Brightmore of <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
On any given day, you’ll find a range of options to fuel your passions,<br />
meet new friends and enjoy a lifestyle rich with interesting and exciting<br />
educational and engaging programs. Learn more about senior living at<br />
BrightmoreOf<strong>Wilmington</strong>.com or schedule a visit at 910.507.7384.<br />
INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE<br />
2324 S 41st Street<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC 28403<br />
4 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
Senior Living Choices offered by Liberty Senior Living
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 5
<strong>July</strong>/<strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong><br />
82<br />
A Landfall<br />
Landscape<br />
How one family<br />
transformed their<br />
Landfall home into a<br />
stunning waterfront<br />
haven<br />
By Lori Wilson<br />
90<br />
Revitalizing a<br />
Historic Gem<br />
The Cotton Exchange<br />
becomes a destination<br />
of choice for locals<br />
seeking unique<br />
shops, services and<br />
entertainment<br />
By Jen Reed<br />
61<br />
<strong>2023</strong> Best of<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Awards<br />
Our readers voted<br />
for their favorite<br />
places around the<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> area<br />
By Carin Hall and<br />
Fanny Slater<br />
PHOTO G. FRANK HART<br />
6 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
THANKS FOR VOTING US #1!<br />
RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL | MOVE IN/OUT | REAL ESTATE | EVENTS | CONSTRUCTION CLEAN UP<br />
Creating Free Time For Busy People !<br />
311 Judges Rd, <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910.777.7665<br />
www.carolina.cleaning<br />
Family owned, professional<br />
cleaning services since 1994.<br />
Offering custom residential<br />
and commercial cleaning with<br />
outstanding quality and a<br />
personal touch.<br />
Licensed, bonded and insured<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 7
JULY / AUGUST <strong>2023</strong><br />
Departments » <strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong><br />
Buzz<br />
15 Ceramics in the Cargo<br />
District Meet Ashley<br />
Marklinger, Owner of<br />
Bookworm Pottery & Co<br />
16 Calendar Our five<br />
highlights for <strong>July</strong>–<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust<br />
15<br />
18 Events The rundown on<br />
what to do this summer<br />
28 Entertainment TV &<br />
Music<br />
30 Staff Picks Non-fiction<br />
books we love<br />
32 Business Outlook<br />
Understanding New<br />
Hanover County’s Billion-<br />
Dollar Endowment<br />
36 Newsmaker The success<br />
story of <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air<br />
40 ArtSeen A beloved local<br />
ceramics shop shares the<br />
therapeutic art of pottery<br />
with students of all levels<br />
49 97 117<br />
Well Styled Food+Drink Travel<br />
49 A Day on the Water<br />
Island hop in the latest<br />
styles from local boutiques<br />
50 Boating After 20<br />
years, faith, family and<br />
fun continue to anchor<br />
Anglers Marine NC<br />
52 Fashion Light and airy<br />
styles for sunny days<br />
ahead<br />
58 Shop Local A guide to<br />
local farmers markets<br />
and why it’s important to<br />
support them<br />
50<br />
97 Dining with a View A<br />
classic <strong>Wilmington</strong>ian<br />
spot gets a new menu<br />
98 Dining Review<br />
Revamped Southern<br />
fare with an Asian twist<br />
breathes new life into The<br />
George on the Riverwalk<br />
100 Libations The Sorrow<br />
Drowner is an immersive<br />
tiki-noir bar experience<br />
you can’t miss<br />
104 In the Kitchen Cool<br />
& easy summer recipes<br />
showcase the colors of the<br />
season<br />
110 Restaurant Guide<br />
Select spots for eating and<br />
drinking in <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
100<br />
117 Travel From<br />
Michelangelo's bridges<br />
to culinary delights,<br />
uncovers some of Rome's<br />
best-kept secrets courtesy<br />
of the Sofitel Villa<br />
Borghese Hotel<br />
Fundamentals<br />
12 Reader Services<br />
14 Editor's Letter<br />
120 The Last Reflection<br />
46 Southern Drawl A<br />
scientist and UNCW<br />
professor is on a quest<br />
to protect and spread<br />
awareness around North<br />
Carolina’s ecosystems<br />
<strong>July</strong>/<strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong><br />
Best of <strong>Wilmington</strong> Awards | The Revitalization of the Cotton Exchange | Summer Styles <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
Revitalization<br />
of the Cotton<br />
Exchange<br />
Discover Unique<br />
Shops, Services<br />
& Entertainment<br />
Summer<br />
Fashion<br />
Light and Airy<br />
Styles for a Day<br />
Out on the Water<br />
NHCE BILLION-<br />
THE COTTON<br />
AT HOME IN<br />
DOLLAR<br />
EXCHANGE<br />
LANDFALL<br />
ENDOWMENT<br />
ON THE COVER »<br />
A fashion shoot, featuring a trip<br />
to Masonboro Island with<br />
Jeff Brown Yachts<br />
IMAGE BY DARIA AMATO<br />
8 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 9
CEO & Publisher<br />
Robert Sweeney<br />
Executive Director of Operations<br />
Emily Sweeney<br />
Managing Editor<br />
Carin Hall<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
Advertising Director<br />
Sybil Stokes, 910-508-5158<br />
Art Director<br />
Shanna Thomson<br />
Graphic Designers<br />
Kristina Parolla<br />
Shanna Thomson<br />
Carl Turner<br />
Travel Director<br />
Katie McElveen<br />
1331 LANDFALL DRIVE , WILMINGTON • $1,895,000<br />
Incredible Landfall location…with views of the Intracoastal Waterway from<br />
the backyard, unobstructed views of Dye #8 across the street, just down the<br />
street from the neighborhood’s historical Temple Garden and a stone’s throw<br />
to the Dye Clubhouse. This 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath home sits on large .91 acre<br />
corner homesite, and the upstairs Bonus Room boasts views of the waterway<br />
all the way to the beach. Extensive renovations have been made to include<br />
brand new gourmet kitchen, new wide plank flooring, new carpeting,<br />
updated bathrooms, Travertine tile entry stairs, beautiful Mahogany front<br />
door, new windows, all new light fixtures, and fresh interior and exterior<br />
paint. This graceful home is like new and is a true gem!<br />
Contributing Writers<br />
Demia Avery, Kaitlin Gooding,<br />
Carin Hall, Kim Henry, Denise K. James,<br />
Joe Jancsurak, Katie McElveen, Jen Reed,<br />
Judy Royal, Fanny Slater, Lori Wilson,<br />
Vera Wilson<br />
Photographers<br />
Daria Amato, Allison Eding,<br />
Kaitlin Gooding, Madeline Gray,<br />
Carin Hall, G. Frank Hart, Jeff Janowski,<br />
Bradley Pearce, Dale Shew, Karen Zip<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
Distribution Coordinator<br />
Joy Brown<br />
■ ■ ■<br />
Customer Service<br />
Corporate Office: 843-856-2532<br />
1720 Drysdale Dr, <strong>Wilmington</strong> • 910-256-6111 • landfallrealty.com<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong> (Vol. 11, No. 2)<br />
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Publishing, LLC. The entire contents of<br />
this publication are fully protected and<br />
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SUBSCRIPTION price is $24.95 per year.<br />
10 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
High-quality cabinets,<br />
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 11
Thanks For<br />
Voting Us #1 and<br />
Your Continued<br />
Support!<br />
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family law, and civil litigation.<br />
910-763-8106 • 514 Princess St, <strong>Wilmington</strong> • masonmasonlaw.com<br />
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12 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
We’re Proud to have been<br />
Voted Best Bank in <strong>Wilmington</strong>.<br />
At SouthState, we are committed to delivering exceptional service and the best<br />
financial solutions, while investing in the customers and communities we serve.<br />
As your bank, your bankers and your neighbors, we’re incredibly proud to have<br />
been selected for this honor. Thank you, <strong>Wilmington</strong>!<br />
800.277.2175 • SouthStateBank.com<br />
Member FDIC<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 13
from the editor<br />
<strong>July</strong>/<strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong><br />
Best of <strong>Wilmington</strong> Awards | The Revitalization of the Cotton Exchange | Summer Styles <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
JULY / AUGUST <strong>2023</strong><br />
Revitalization<br />
of the Cotton<br />
Exchange<br />
Discover Unique<br />
Shops, Services<br />
& Entertainment<br />
Summer<br />
Fashion<br />
Light and Airy<br />
Styles for a Day<br />
Out on the Water<br />
THE COTTON<br />
EXCHANGE<br />
NHCE BILLION-<br />
DOLLAR<br />
ENDOWMENT<br />
AT HOME IN<br />
LANDFALL<br />
Give the gift<br />
that lasts<br />
all year long...<br />
a subscription to<br />
Subscribe online at<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
or by calling 843-856-2532<br />
SUMMER FUN IN<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> has officially<br />
arrived, and this issue is<br />
packed with great events,<br />
restaurants, things to do and<br />
places to explore. Not to mention, our<br />
annual Best of <strong>Wilmington</strong> Awards have<br />
officially been announced!<br />
When I moved to the area last fall, I<br />
consulted <strong>Wilmington</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>’s 2022<br />
Best of <strong>Wilmington</strong> awards list for<br />
everything we needed as we moved into<br />
our new home, finding top services for<br />
our four-year-old’s needs, and for things<br />
to do and places to visit as newbies to the<br />
area. It did not let us down. Consider this<br />
your sign to save this issue and bookmark<br />
the <strong>2023</strong> winners for all your service,<br />
health, wellness, beauty, dining and<br />
shopping needs.<br />
In another feature, we guide<br />
you through updates at the Cotton<br />
Exchange, including interviews with<br />
business owners and General Manager<br />
Cheryl Bullock, who discusses the rich<br />
history and present-day community of<br />
some 30 unique specialty shops and<br />
restaurants within the eight-building<br />
complex. Discover a few gems, including<br />
Momentum Distillery, Urban Goods and<br />
Gardens, a unique children’s clothing<br />
store and others. Like our restaurant<br />
feature on The George on the Riverwalk,<br />
discover what’s been revitalized in hopes<br />
to get more locals wanting to come back.<br />
We’ve also got some important<br />
information to share, including a guide to<br />
local farmers markets, all about the billiondollar<br />
NCHE endowment and a discussion<br />
around our “natural treasures” from<br />
scientist/UNCW professor Roger Shew.<br />
Our featured artist, ceramicist Ashley<br />
Merklinger at Bookworm Pottery & Co in<br />
the Cargo District, invites YOU to join her.<br />
With class offerings for varying interests<br />
and levels, she’s on a mission to get more<br />
people to incorporate creativity in their<br />
lives for their mental health, referring to<br />
her classes as “pockets of rest.”<br />
And for the evenings, do yourself a favor<br />
and check out the Sorrow Drowner, a<br />
unique tiki-noir experience downtown. To<br />
my surprise, this is not the most popular<br />
place in <strong>Wilmington</strong>… yet. I am so glad<br />
I found this<br />
unique spot and<br />
am determined<br />
to make it a<br />
“hidden gem no<br />
more.”<br />
Now let’s<br />
address the<br />
obvious: peakheat<br />
days are<br />
ahead of us.<br />
To survive the<br />
season in style,<br />
consider some bright and airy picks from<br />
select boutiques—perfect for beach days,<br />
window-shopping or island-hopping.<br />
After a day out on the water for this<br />
shoot with the Jeff Brown Yacht Club,<br />
I’m starting to see why people fall in love<br />
with this place. (Currently day-dreaming<br />
of one day owning the BRABUS Shadow<br />
500 T-Top➔ p 54-55).<br />
Speaking of water views, Nest Fine<br />
Gifts and Interiors owner, Monika<br />
Williams, gave us a special peek into<br />
her gorgeously transformed home in<br />
Landfall, and I’m living vicariously<br />
through the photos of their space.<br />
Now get out there and enjoy these<br />
sunny days while they last! See you on<br />
the water.<br />
Carin Hall<br />
Managing Editor<br />
editor@wilmingtonncmagazine.com<br />
FIND US ONLINE!<br />
Visit us on our website<br />
wilmingtonncmagazine.com<br />
Find us on Facebook and<br />
Instagram<br />
@wilmingtonmagazine<br />
14 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Your Local Rundown on News and Culture<br />
PHOTO ALLISON EDING OF LIGHTBLOOM PHOTOGRAPHY<br />
Ceramics in<br />
the Cargo<br />
District<br />
Meet Ashley Marklinger, Owner<br />
of Bookworm Pottery & Co<br />
See page 40<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 15
calendar<br />
The Reveal:<br />
JULY – AUGUST<br />
Our five highlights from this issue’s calendar of events.<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>’s Fourth of <strong>July</strong><br />
Celebration<br />
<strong>July</strong> 4<br />
The City of <strong>Wilmington</strong> extends an<br />
invitation to all to visit, shop, and dine in<br />
the historic downtown area, followed by a<br />
riverside celebration of Independence Day<br />
featuring music and more, culminating<br />
in a magnificent fireworks display. A<br />
family-friendly program, featuring the<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Symphony Orchestra, will<br />
take place at the Live Oak Bank Pavilion at<br />
Riverfront Park, with the fireworks visible<br />
along the nearly two-mile-long Riverwalk.<br />
For more information, including parking<br />
and traffic details closer to the event date,<br />
visit the city's website and social media.<br />
wilmingtonrecreation.com<br />
Fireworks by the Sea<br />
& Boardwalk Blast<br />
Thursdays <strong>July</strong>–<strong>Aug</strong>ust<br />
Pleasure Island summer officially kicks off<br />
with the weekly fireworks display on the<br />
Friday before Memorial Day, continuing<br />
every Thursday evening until the final<br />
fireworks show on the Friday before Labor<br />
Day. The beach strand in front of the<br />
historic Carolina Beach Boardwalk offers<br />
the best viewing spot for this spectacular<br />
Thursday show, accompanied by live music<br />
at the Gazebo stage. Gather the family<br />
and head to the Boardwalk in Carolina<br />
Beach. The music typically starts at<br />
6:30pm, followed by the fireworks at 9pm.<br />
carolinabeach.org<br />
Opera <strong>Wilmington</strong> presents<br />
Verdi's La Traviata<br />
<strong>July</strong> 21, 23, 28, 30<br />
Experience the tale of a beautiful<br />
courtesan with a heart of gold and her<br />
devoted suitor. Performances will take<br />
place on Friday, <strong>July</strong> 21 and Friday, <strong>July</strong><br />
28 at 7pm, as well as Sunday, <strong>July</strong> 23 and<br />
Sunday, <strong>July</strong> 30 at 3pm. A reception for<br />
donors contributing $250 or more will be<br />
held prior to the <strong>July</strong> 23 performance.<br />
An open reception will follow the final<br />
performance in the Cultural Arts Building<br />
lobby. operawilmington.org<br />
Wahine Classic<br />
Surfing Competition<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust 12–13<br />
The Wahine Classic, a beloved surfing<br />
tradition, attracts female surfers of all levels<br />
and ages. Divisions include Pro Short and<br />
Longboard, as well as Amateur Short and<br />
Longboard. The crowd favorite Tiny Wahine<br />
Division is also part of the event. Check the website and social media for updates,<br />
registration, and heat schedules. Jo Pickett, a legendary surfing instructor with over<br />
20 years of experience and the owner of Crystal South Surf Camp, organizes the event.<br />
Jo's expertise in teaching surfing and her incorporation of yoga for strength and balance<br />
have made her a popular and successful coach in competitive surfing. Many of her<br />
students have gone on to become surfing instructors themselves. Jo's instruction covers<br />
surf etiquette, ocean safety, coastal ecology, and marine life, helping surfers develop<br />
a comprehensive understanding of the ocean and enjoy surfing for pleasure or at the<br />
competition level. wahineclassic.com<br />
Free Summer Concerts<br />
at Fort Fisher<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust 11, 25<br />
Enjoy family-friendly, free Friday summer<br />
lawn concerts at the Fort Fisher Air Force<br />
Recreation Area. Located near both<br />
Carolina Beach and Kure Beach, relish<br />
the outdoors and bring blankets and<br />
chairs for the whole family. Pack a picnic<br />
to enjoy dinner accompanied by the lively<br />
tunes of live music. Some restrictions<br />
apply. pleasureislandnc.org<br />
W<br />
16 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 17
“For more than twenty<br />
years, Kevin Pfirman has<br />
been practicing architecture,<br />
designing projects of many<br />
ranges of cost, type and<br />
scale, mainly in the coastal<br />
environments of North Carolina<br />
and South Carolina.”<br />
Battle for Independence Road Race <strong>July</strong> 4<br />
Kickstart Independence Day with a thrilling race! On the morning of <strong>July</strong> 4th,<br />
runners can compete in either a 5K or one-mile race along Independence Boulevard<br />
on <strong>Wilmington</strong>'s scenic Gary Shell Cross City Trail. The course is flat and speedy,<br />
attracting agile competitors, yet it's also suitable for runners and spectators of<br />
all ages. Embrace the spirit of Independence Day, honor the birth of our nation,<br />
and pay tribute to those who served. runsignup.com/Race/NC/<strong>Wilmington</strong>/<br />
BattleforIndependenceRoadRace<br />
307 Martin Street<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC<br />
910.538.2170<br />
Event Calendar<br />
Looking to fill your social calendar? We've got the<br />
rundown on what to do this summer season.<br />
5018 Oleander Dr. • <strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC<br />
shopofseagate.com • 910-791-6622<br />
OPEN MON-SAT 10AM-5PM<br />
Live Oak Bank Pavilion<br />
at Riverfront Park<br />
livenation.com<br />
Riley Green, <strong>July</strong> 13<br />
Barenaked Ladies: Last Summer On<br />
Earth <strong>2023</strong>, <strong>July</strong> 14<br />
Phish, <strong>July</strong> 18–19<br />
Darius Rucker: Starting Fires Tour,<br />
<strong>July</strong> 21<br />
GRIZMAS in <strong>July</strong> Featuring GRiZ,<br />
<strong>July</strong> 28-29<br />
Slightly SToopid and Sublime with Rome<br />
wsg Atmosphere, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 6<br />
Tyler Childers: Send in the Hounds Tour<br />
with S.G. Goodman, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 18<br />
Masters of the Mic, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 19<br />
The Wilson Center at CFCC<br />
wilsoncentertickets.com<br />
Stars & Stripes by NC Symphony, <strong>July</strong> 2<br />
Kenny G, <strong>July</strong> 15<br />
Travis Tritt, <strong>July</strong> 22<br />
Masterpiece of the First Order, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 4<br />
A Riot of the Senses, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 5<br />
The Greatest Prodigy, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 6<br />
Flight of Fantasies, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 10<br />
Enchantments, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 12<br />
Brit Floyd, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 13<br />
Brooklyn Arts Center + The Annex<br />
brooklynartsnc.com<br />
Summertime Market, <strong>July</strong> 15–16<br />
School of Rock <strong>Wilmington</strong> Concert,<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust 27<br />
Butterfly Releases<br />
at Airlie Gardens<br />
Tuesdays,<br />
<strong>July</strong> 4-Sept 12<br />
Witness the<br />
enchantment of<br />
butterfly releases<br />
accompanied by an<br />
educator's insights<br />
into the butterfly life cycle and the<br />
diverse species of butterflies present that<br />
week in the Butterfly House. In the event<br />
of rain, an educator will be available in<br />
the classroom, ensuring guests can still<br />
observe the butterflies. After visiting<br />
the Butterfly House, take a stroll<br />
through the nearby Pollinator Garden,<br />
specially planted with flowers that<br />
attract pollinators year-round, including<br />
butterflies, bees, moths, hummingbirds,<br />
and more! airliegardens.org<br />
18 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
PAYSAGE HOME<br />
WILMINGTON<br />
LUMINA STATION<br />
910-256-6050<br />
@ P A Y S A G E H O M E<br />
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NORTH HILLS<br />
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 19
Story Time by<br />
the Sea<br />
Recurring<br />
Wednesdays<br />
through <strong>Aug</strong>ust<br />
16<br />
Immerse yourself in a magical experience<br />
as the Princess and her fairytale<br />
companions host engaging activities for the<br />
whole family at Kure Beach's Ocean Front<br />
Park & Pavilion. Delight in stories, crafts,<br />
and games suitable for both boys and girls.<br />
The Princess and her fairytale friends<br />
will grace the park every Wednesday, so<br />
don't forget to bring your phone or camera<br />
to capture these unforgettable moments.<br />
townofkurebeach.org<br />
Passionate About Making You Feel Confident!<br />
We are a MULTI-SERVICE BEAUTY STUDIO specializing in eyelash<br />
extensions, hair, permanent makeup, facial waxing and lash lifts.<br />
Taylor Keeping<br />
Smith – Owner,<br />
Certified eyelash<br />
extension artist<br />
and eyelash<br />
extension trainer.<br />
326 Nutt Street, <strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC (Located in The Cotton Exchange)<br />
910-338-1133 | keepingitglam.com | Open: Mon-Sat 10-5<br />
East Coast “Got-<br />
Em-On” King<br />
Mackerel Classic<br />
<strong>July</strong> 7-9<br />
Prepare your<br />
fishing gear for<br />
the Annual East<br />
Coast Got Em On<br />
King Mackerel<br />
Classic! It's time to compete and vie<br />
for your next significant catch and the<br />
ultimate bragging rights in this renowned<br />
fishing tournament. The captains meeting<br />
will be held on Friday, followed by two<br />
days of fishing on Saturday and Sunday,<br />
culminating in an Awards Ceremony to<br />
celebrate the participants' achievements.<br />
gotemonliveclassic.com<br />
Tri-Span 5K & 10K<br />
<strong>July</strong> 8<br />
Join the celebration of<br />
the 40th Anniversary<br />
and participate in the oldest 3-bridge 5K or<br />
10K Run or Run/Walk on the East Coast!<br />
The 10K course traverses the Memorial<br />
Bridge and two additional bridges before<br />
concluding on Water Street. Additionally,<br />
there will be a brief loop down Battleship<br />
Road, where runners will pass in front of the<br />
Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, enjoying<br />
the scenic view of downtown <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
across the picturesque Cape Fear River.<br />
The 5K point-to-point course commences<br />
at the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA and<br />
finishes riverside in historic downtown.<br />
Shuttle/transportation to the starting line<br />
will be provided. All 5K participants will<br />
experience two of the three bridges from the<br />
20 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Fine Antiques, Home Decor<br />
AnD VintAge<br />
6213 Market Street<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC<br />
910-444-8881<br />
portcitypeddler.com<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 21
AT THE BEACH<br />
AG Jeans<br />
Nic & Zoe<br />
Michael Stars<br />
Lilla P<br />
Wilt<br />
Mod-O-Doc<br />
Bella Dahl<br />
KinRoss Cashmere<br />
1051 Military Cutoff Road<br />
Suite 103<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC<br />
910.509.0273<br />
coolsweatsatthebeach.com<br />
910-228-6637<br />
facebook.com/DeBruhls<br />
225 Pine Grove Dr.<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC<br />
Mon-Sat from 10am-5pm<br />
10K course, as well as the scenic downtown<br />
Riverwalk. runsignup.com/Race/Info/NC/<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>/TriSpan5k10k<br />
Summer Jazz Series at the Mansion<br />
<strong>July</strong> 13, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 10<br />
Indulge in the captivating melodies of live<br />
music during the Jazz at the Mansion<br />
Concert Series, held on the second<br />
Thursday of each month between May<br />
and September. Bring the entire family,<br />
relax on blankets or chairs, and savor your<br />
favorite snacks while immersing yourself<br />
in an evening of smooth tunes amidst the<br />
stunning grounds of the historic Bellamy<br />
Mansion. For details, exclusions, and the<br />
latest updates, visit their website and<br />
social media. In the event of inclement<br />
weather, the concert will be canceled.<br />
Musicians will be announced closer to the<br />
event. bellamymansion.org<br />
Poplar Grove's<br />
Full & New<br />
Moon Ghost<br />
Tours<br />
<strong>July</strong> 17, <strong>Aug</strong>ust<br />
1, 16, 30<br />
Embark on an evening tour of the Manor<br />
House during the full moon or New Moon,<br />
guided by an expert. Discover the lingering<br />
presence of deceased members of the Foy<br />
family in specific rooms of the house and<br />
hear captivating stories of how they have<br />
made their presence known over the years.<br />
As the trees silhouette the night sky, you'll<br />
also encounter the echoes of former slaves<br />
and tenant farmers. Receive a Scroll of<br />
the Dead, which lists the names of family<br />
members who have passed away in the<br />
house. poplargrove.org<br />
Greenfield Lake<br />
Walking Eco-<br />
Tour<br />
<strong>July</strong> 20<br />
Join Cape Fear<br />
River Watch<br />
for a leisurely<br />
Eco-Tour of Greenfield Lake, a cypress<br />
dome ecosystem nestled in the heart of<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>. Learn about the flora and<br />
fauna while your knowledgeable guide<br />
identifies plants and animals along the<br />
way, highlighting the best practices for<br />
preserving the natural beauty of the area.<br />
Greenfield Lake is a habitat for a diverse<br />
22 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 23
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range of wildlife, including alligators,<br />
turtles, glossy anhingas, yellow-bellied<br />
sliders, and various species of herons<br />
and egrets. Meet at the Greenfield Lake<br />
Boathouse, and enjoy the scenic walk<br />
towards the lake, where the boathouse<br />
awaits on your right. capefearriverwatch.<br />
org/eco-tours/<br />
World Adventure Trivia Night at the<br />
Sorrow Drowner<br />
<strong>July</strong> 20, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 17<br />
On every third Thursday, visit the tiki-noir<br />
lounge for an exciting trivia night. Indulge<br />
in $9 Mai Tais while competing for fun<br />
prizes. sorrowdrowner.com<br />
History Comes<br />
Alive with Dr.<br />
Chris Fonvielle<br />
<strong>July</strong> 23,<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust 20<br />
Immerse yourself<br />
in a captivating<br />
two-hour cruise filled with the enthralling<br />
history of <strong>Wilmington</strong>. Local historian<br />
Dr. Chris Fonvielle will be on board,<br />
delivering an engaging talk that focuses on<br />
“<strong>Wilmington</strong> and the Lower Cape Fear,”<br />
encompassing the Civil War, Revolutionary<br />
War, pirates, and the shipping industry.<br />
This cruise will transport you back in<br />
time, breathing life into history. Relish the<br />
comfortable seating, the gentle morning<br />
breeze, and the serene ambiance of Cape<br />
Fear. wilmingtonwatertours.net<br />
Monthly Bird<br />
Walk<br />
<strong>July</strong> 26,<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust 23<br />
Embark on a guided<br />
bird walk led by park<br />
staff at Carolina Beach State Park along<br />
Snows Cut Trail. No previous experience is<br />
required. Starting at the Marina, the easy<br />
two-mile hike will take you through flat<br />
terrain, lasting approximately two hours.<br />
Both novice and avid birders will revel<br />
in the adventure of spotting resident and<br />
visiting bird species. Remember to bring<br />
sunscreen, binoculars, drinking water, and<br />
insect repellent. ncparks.gov/events<br />
Fourth Friday Gallery Nights<br />
<strong>July</strong> 28, <strong>Aug</strong>ust 25<br />
Immerse yourself in an evening of art and<br />
culture during the Fourth Friday Gallery<br />
24 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 25
Nights. Participating galleries and studios<br />
open their doors after hours for a celebration<br />
of various artistic genres, including oils,<br />
acrylics, watercolors, pastels, metals,<br />
ceramics, music, mixed media, and more.<br />
Engage in discussions with featured artists<br />
about their craft. Maps are available at all<br />
participating locations, including the Arts<br />
Council of <strong>Wilmington</strong>. artswilmington.<br />
org/four-Fridays<br />
Jamie's Port<br />
City Outlander<br />
Adventure<br />
<strong>July</strong> 29,<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust 26<br />
Embark on a time-traveling journey and<br />
tread the path of the beloved characters<br />
from Diana Gabaldon's acclaimed<br />
Outlander books, immortalized in a<br />
cinematic series. Experience a meticulously<br />
designed adventure tailored for Outlander<br />
history enthusiasts, offering private<br />
historic house tours, walking tours, ghost<br />
tours, a private Cape Fear River cruise, as<br />
well as snacks, lunch, and dinner options.<br />
Walk in the footsteps of the beloved Fraser<br />
family in <strong>Wilmington</strong>'s old Port City.<br />
Advanced registration for ages 13 and<br />
above is required, and please note that the<br />
tour involves extensive walking on uneven<br />
surfaces and stairs. Secure your spot in<br />
advance, as this limited tour, rain or shine,<br />
is expected to sell out. ncsassenachtours.<br />
com/tour/jamies-port-city-adventure<br />
Whomparama:<br />
Body Surfing<br />
Extravaganza<br />
<strong>Aug</strong>ust 12<br />
Join in the slightly<br />
off-the-wall fun<br />
near the awardwinning<br />
Carolina<br />
Beach Boardwalk<br />
for the Whomparama body surfing<br />
extravaganza! Delight in the participation<br />
and spectating of all ages as body surfers of<br />
various age divisions, from “Super Grom”<br />
(for the little ones) to “Old As Dirt,” take<br />
to the waves. The competition kicks off in<br />
the morning at Hamlet Avenue, followed<br />
by the after-party and award ceremony at<br />
the Carolina Beach Boardwalk Pavilion<br />
Stage, accompanied by live music. Further<br />
details and registration information will be<br />
available closer to the event.<br />
26 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 27
Reviews: TV & Music<br />
DENISE K. JAMES ON NEW FILMS AND MUSIC<br />
Kelly Clarkson<br />
Chemistry<br />
Kelly Clarkson, by far one of the standout<br />
talents to emerge from American Idol,<br />
returns with a collection of soulful pop<br />
ballads in her latest album, “Chemistry.”<br />
I eagerly downloaded the aptly titled track<br />
“me” and was delighted to rediscover<br />
everything I adore about this artist – the<br />
lyrical independence she exudes and the<br />
sheer vocal power she displays in those<br />
captivating bridges. It brought back fond<br />
memories of Mariah Carey's classic style,<br />
in the best possible way. I also highly<br />
recommend giving “I Hate Love” and<br />
“Mine” a listen. Bravo, Kelly. We are fully<br />
invested in this musical journey.<br />
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel<br />
Amazon Prime Video<br />
Starring Rachel Brosnahan, Tony Shalhoub, Alex Borstein<br />
5 STARS<br />
Jeff Bezos (or one of his representatives) kindly granted me a complimentary ticket to<br />
attend the series finale of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” arguably Prime Video's most<br />
successful original series, at my local cinema. To enhance the experience, popcorn and<br />
soda were provided free of charge. I settled into my seat just in time for a pre-show trivia<br />
game. Since I had started watching "Maisel" well before the pandemic disrupted my life, I<br />
wondered how much I would recall from the earlier seasons. As it turned out, I remembered<br />
a substantial amount. This show leaves a lasting impression.<br />
If you've seen even a few episodes of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” - or if you keep up<br />
with popular culture - you are aware of the exceptional performances by Rachel Brosnahan<br />
as Miriam, Tony Shalhoub as Abe, and Alex Borstein as Susie in this comedy-drama.<br />
Beyond showcasing Miriam's comedic career journey (a common experience in creative<br />
fields, wouldn't you agree?), the series treats us to various other delights: a captivating<br />
period setting (those dresses!), a glimpse into Jewish culture and family norms, and the<br />
relatable quest for love and self-discovery.<br />
For those who discontinued watching “Maisel” before the surge of content driven by<br />
the pandemic, I sincerely encourage you to give it another chance, regardless of any<br />
hearsay about the fifth and final season. It is widely acknowledged that series finales are<br />
challenging, and viewers often disagree on the desired outcome - and I won't claim that<br />
this is any different. In fact, I had my own criticisms of the ending. The true emotional<br />
resonance of the episode (and the entire series) lies in the moments leading up to the<br />
prolonged finale. While I lament that it didn't conclude where I had hoped, I understand<br />
the reasoning behind this decision.<br />
In summary, I implore you to watch the series for yourself and form your own opinions<br />
about the intricately portrayed characters and the unfolding of their lives. It reminds me of<br />
a book review I once wrote, where I concluded with the line, “You can't know all of anybody's<br />
story; you can only know your part in it.” Indeed, we can only comprehend the part we,<br />
as viewers, play in Miriam Maisel's journey to success and self-discovery. However, it is a<br />
highly rewarding part, deserving of a round of applause.<br />
Hiss Golden Messenger<br />
Jump for Joy<br />
For those unacquainted with Hiss Golden<br />
Messenger, a North Carolina-based<br />
band, this summer presents the perfect<br />
opportunity to acquaint yourself with their<br />
latest album, “Jump for Joy.” This group<br />
caters to lovers of folk rock and irresistible<br />
Southern melodies, striking all the right<br />
chords with tracks like the infectiously<br />
vibrant “Nu-Grape,” complemented by<br />
its charmingly offbeat music video. New<br />
listeners may also want to add the 2021<br />
releases “Glory Strums” and “Hardlytown”<br />
to their playlist to experience the band's<br />
exceptional songwriting prowess.<br />
28 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 29
staff picks<br />
Truth Be Told<br />
Non-fiction books we love<br />
A good vacation read is in the eye of the beholder and nonfiction readers need page-turners, too!<br />
Check out these nonfiction titles that are riveting, thrilling and heartfelt.<br />
“The Wager: A Tale of<br />
Shipwreck, Mutiny, and<br />
Murder” by David Grann<br />
David Grann is renowned for his<br />
captivating nonfiction narratives that<br />
possess the allure of fiction, and his<br />
latest work is no exception. “The Wager”<br />
presents a gripping historical account<br />
of a shipwreck in the 1740s off the<br />
South American coast, delving into the<br />
disintegration of the survivors' order<br />
into chaos and violence. Even prior to the<br />
calamity, the crew endures afflictions of illness and discord, with<br />
many sailors having been unwillingly press-ganged into service.<br />
The vessel constantly battles adverse weather conditions and a<br />
tempestuous ocean until it ultimately succumbs to destruction. It<br />
is then that the true turmoil ensues – starvation, internal strife,<br />
mutinous intentions, and even murder. Do not overlook this<br />
enthralling true story of survival. –Megan Mathis<br />
“Breathless: The Scientific<br />
Race to Defeat a Deadly<br />
Virus” by David Quammen<br />
In “Breathless,” a finalist for the 2022<br />
National Book Award in nonfiction,<br />
acclaimed science writer Quammen<br />
forsakes the medical drama of the<br />
coronavirus pandemic to focus solely on<br />
the frantic efforts of scientists striving to<br />
unravel the origins of the outbreak and<br />
determine the most effective means of<br />
control. “Breathless” could be considered<br />
a quasi-sequel to Quammen's 2012 book, “Spillover: Animal<br />
Infections and the Next Human Pandemic.” In fact, he returns<br />
to interview many of the same scientists he engaged with for his<br />
earlier work. Patiently, he delves into the scientific discourse<br />
surrounding whether the virus originated directly from bats,<br />
passed through another animal intermediary, or possibly<br />
emerged due to a laboratory accident. The cast of characters is<br />
extensive, and Quammen provides a helpful Credits section at<br />
the end of the text, offering a brief biography of each scientist he<br />
interviewed. –Bland Lawson<br />
“Hijab Butch Blues”<br />
by Lamya H.<br />
This candid and heartfelt memoir by<br />
a queer Muslim woman chronicles a<br />
story of self-discovery through faith,<br />
while offering an intimate portrayal of<br />
the immigrant experience. Born in a<br />
Southeast Asian country and raised in the<br />
Middle East, Lamya grew up torn between<br />
the teachings and societal expectations of<br />
her cherished religion and her undeniable<br />
identity. As she immigrates to the United<br />
States to pursue a university education,<br />
her deep devotion to Islam serves as a guiding light as she<br />
endeavors to uncover her true self and determine her path. Each<br />
chapter is named after a significant figure from the Quran, and<br />
Lamya utilizes their stories to contextualize and comprehend<br />
various aspects of her own journey. The resulting narrative is an<br />
inspiring odyssey of seeking and finding authenticity in life and<br />
establishing genuine community. –Sarah Cameron<br />
“The Underworld: Journeys to<br />
the Depths of the Ocean”<br />
by Susan Casey<br />
Publication Date: <strong>Aug</strong>ust 1, <strong>2023</strong><br />
The depths of the ocean have long been<br />
enigmatic and miscalculated, mostly<br />
remaining a realm of the unknown.<br />
Throughout the centuries, humans have<br />
conjectured about the mysteries lurking at<br />
the ocean's floor, conjuring up nightmarish<br />
images of ravenous sea monsters thirsting<br />
for destruction. We have possessed<br />
greater knowledge of the farthest reaches<br />
of space than the profound depths of our oceans. Susan<br />
Casey accompanies you on her expedition alongside scientists<br />
endeavoring to delve to the ocean's abyss (pun intended) and<br />
make groundbreaking discoveries that will revolutionize our<br />
understanding of our planet. Seamlessly transitioning between<br />
the history of deep-sea exploration and her captivating encounters<br />
aboard research vessels, Casey interweaves the urgency of climate<br />
change action. –Morgan Ryan<br />
W<br />
30 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
914 S. Kerr Ave.<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC<br />
910.791.2222<br />
atlanticappliance.net<br />
Open: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm & Sat 10am-2pm<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 31
usiness outlook<br />
Grant partner organizations<br />
gather at a public meeting<br />
where grants were<br />
announced last year.<br />
Crafting a Roadmap<br />
for Change<br />
Understanding New Hanover County’s Billion-Dollar Endowment<br />
By VERA WILSON<br />
WILLIAM BUSTER, THE FIRST CEO<br />
and President of the New Hanover County<br />
Endowment (NHCE) sits in his large but<br />
modestly decorated new digs in the United<br />
Bank building across from <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s City<br />
Hall. In charge of managing the over one billion dollars set aside<br />
for the endowment from the sale of the county hospital in 2021, he<br />
has a lot to carry on his broad shoulders.<br />
But Buster’s not troubled by the challenge; in fact, he embraces it.<br />
Everything about his work history seems to have prepared<br />
him for this position. He’s worked for several philanthropic<br />
organizations, holding positions of increasing responsibility. He<br />
advised nonprofits as the owner of a consulting firm, served on<br />
several nonprofit boards, and even worked with the White House<br />
on the My Brother’s Keeper initiative.<br />
Most recently, he worked for Asheville-based Dogwood Health<br />
Trust. The trust is strikingly similar to the NHCE in that it was<br />
born out of the sale of a local hospital and is dedicated to improving<br />
the well-being of people in the surrounding communities.<br />
Buster is a big proponent of such place-based philanthropy which<br />
is focused on a location rather than a specific program or service.<br />
“The way I approach place-based grantmaking is you’re thinking<br />
holistically about the community, not just one nonprofit or one<br />
segment of the population,” he says.<br />
And NCHE is one of the largest.<br />
“There’s nothing like the NCHE anywhere in the country,” says<br />
Buster, as he explains why he applied for the job. “It’s unique in that<br />
it’s so big, but such a small area,” referring to New Hanover County.<br />
When Buster arrived, he was presented with a blank slate of<br />
sorts. When the endowment was created, the broad intent was to<br />
improve the community by working with existing nonprofits, but<br />
the vision needed to be finetuned, and how the board would go<br />
about accomplishing their mission was largely undecided.<br />
After hiring a skeleton crew, Buster and the NHCE held over<br />
100 sessions with nonprofit leaders and community advocates to<br />
get a lay of the land. The public was also invited to make their<br />
voices heard at several meetings.<br />
The results were instrumental in developing the recently<br />
published strategic plan for <strong>2023</strong>-2025 which will provide a sound<br />
roadmap for the years to come. Goals, detailed objectives and<br />
desired impacts were articulated for each of the NCHE’s strategic<br />
areas of focus: education, community development, social and<br />
health equity, and public safety.<br />
A community advisory committee, made up of a cross-section<br />
of volunteers, was formed to support the board in their decisionmaking,<br />
and a well-regarded investment manager, BlackRock<br />
Inc., was hired.<br />
Regardless of how one feels about the sale of the hospital, the<br />
PHOTOS NHCE<br />
32 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 33
usiness outlook<br />
110 organizations<br />
received about $9<br />
million from the<br />
endowment in 2022,<br />
needing to meet<br />
specific benchmarks in<br />
order to be selected.<br />
William Buster is the<br />
first CEO and President<br />
of the NHCE.<br />
impact the endowment will have on the<br />
community will be a game changer. A<br />
recent distribution of additional funds<br />
from the sale added $37.5 million to<br />
the already staggering $1.25 billion<br />
endowment.<br />
Per the IRS, the endowment can access<br />
4 percent of its market value annually,<br />
which equaled about $50 million during<br />
its first year. Although 291 nonprofits<br />
applied during its first grant cycle in<br />
2022, only around nine million dollars<br />
was distributed to 110 organizations.<br />
With so much money in their coffers, it<br />
might seem that the endowment could<br />
have easily funded all grant requests, but<br />
Buster explained why that didn’t happen.<br />
“We set benchmarks,” he says. “You<br />
had to be in operation for at least two<br />
years, and you couldn’t ask for more than<br />
25 percent of your annual budget. Turns<br />
out a lot of them didn’t meet those criteria. And the grant request<br />
had to fall within one of our strategic areas of focus. Many were<br />
asking for something completely outside of those four pillars.”<br />
Planned improvements to the upcoming grant cycle may include<br />
easing the two-year requirement and allowing for multi-year awards.<br />
“You don’t have to be a 501c3 to apply. If you have an innovative<br />
idea and you have some level of track record, just help us understand<br />
what you’ve done in our community,” says Buster. “And we know<br />
most issues nonprofits face last longer than a year.”<br />
Although no grants were awarded to public schools or churches<br />
in the first round, they are invited to apply with certain conditions.<br />
“When it comes to governmental entities [schools], we can’t<br />
supplant what they’re already supposed to be getting,” explains<br />
Buster. “And if churches apply for resources, those resources can’t<br />
be exclusionary.”<br />
“You don’t have to be a 501c3 to apply. If you<br />
have an innovative idea and you have some<br />
level of track record, just help us understand<br />
what you’ve done in our community.”<br />
A key objective for Buster moving forward is making staff<br />
available to nonprofits before, during and after the grant<br />
application process.<br />
“Now we have staff—we call them network leaders—that you’re<br />
going to be able to talk to and ask questions. I have an expectation<br />
that if you apply to us, you’re going to get our attention,” he says.<br />
“We really do want to be partners.”<br />
Buster and his staff ask for patience from the community. They<br />
hope to grow their team from the current four to ten by the end of<br />
the year.<br />
“Understand this. We are here for the long term,” he states. “But<br />
the issues facing our community didn’t become issues overnight<br />
and we are really trying to lean into long-term solutions.” W<br />
34 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 35
PARTNER CONTENT<br />
newsmaker<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air’s<br />
team consists of over<br />
50 dedicated, skilled<br />
tradespeople.<br />
Redefining the Dream Job<br />
The success story of <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air<br />
By JEN REED » Photos G. FRANK HART<br />
THE CONCEPT OF A<br />
"dream job" encompasses<br />
various definitions, but at its<br />
core, it involves leveraging<br />
one's innate abilities and<br />
talents to make a positive impact on the<br />
world. If you were to ask Jessica Manuel<br />
for her take on the matter, she would<br />
undoubtedly agree, asserting that she has<br />
found her true calling at <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air.<br />
Unbeknownst to many, as the Office<br />
Manager of <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
Air, Manuel serves as<br />
the lifeblood that keeps<br />
the company thriving.<br />
However, it is not merely<br />
the day-to-day tasks she<br />
performs that make this<br />
place truly exceptional;<br />
rather, it is the collective<br />
vision and unwavering<br />
attitude shared by<br />
everyone working for<br />
the company that turns<br />
it into the stuff dreams<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air’s office at<br />
1306 N 23rd St offers 24-hour<br />
emergency HVAC, plumbing<br />
and electrical service<br />
throughout <strong>Wilmington</strong>.<br />
are made of.<br />
“We are like a big family, a cohesive team<br />
of individuals who complement one another<br />
and share a common goal: prioritizing our<br />
customers and delivering the best possible<br />
service,” Manuel explains.<br />
Over a decade ago, Manuel joined<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air when it was just a small<br />
office on Market Street, employing only<br />
a handful of individuals. Since then, the<br />
business has experienced exponential<br />
growth, expanding its team to over 50<br />
dedicated employees and relocating to a<br />
much larger space near the <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
International Airport on 23rd Street.<br />
Furthermore, the addition of electricians<br />
and plumbers to the team has allowed<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air to broaden its range<br />
of services, ensuring a comprehensive<br />
solution for customers.<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air was established in 2007<br />
as a business priding itself on its strong<br />
work ethic. The company<br />
has actively contributed<br />
to the community,<br />
supporting various<br />
veteran causes such as<br />
the Wounded Warrior<br />
Project. Additionally,<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air has<br />
sponsored teams within<br />
the Dixie Youth Baseball<br />
League and volunteered<br />
with the <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
Area Rebuilding<br />
Ministry (WARM),<br />
36 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 37
newsmaker<br />
(top) Despite fierce competition in the HVAC industry,<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air is fully prepared to meet the area’s<br />
growing demand for air conditioning services. (middle)<br />
Adding plumbing and electrical services to its roster<br />
in 2022, the company is thrilled to be able to better<br />
serve the local community. (bottom) To attract skilled<br />
tradespeople, <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air is proactively partnering<br />
with Cape Fear Community College to identify<br />
talented individuals who can thrive in an environment<br />
that prioritizes training and development.<br />
helping underprivileged families restore<br />
heating services.<br />
“There is just something so important about<br />
being able to give back to the community, whatever<br />
that means—and it’s something everyone who<br />
works here appreciates,” Manuel says.<br />
Undoubtedly, the HVAC industry in the<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> area is fiercely competitive, owing<br />
to the region's temperate climate and the<br />
constant demand for air conditioning installation,<br />
maintenance, and replacement.<br />
“People can manage without heat, but they<br />
absolutely refuse to live without air conditioning,”<br />
Manuel humorously remarks.<br />
In Manuel's estimation, the region has ample<br />
opportunities for growth, and <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air<br />
shows no signs of slowing down. That is why<br />
in 2022 <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air added both plumbing<br />
and electrical services to its roster, thus giving<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air the ability to fully service the<br />
community needs throughout the coast of North<br />
Carolina! That’s why their motto is “<strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
Air is Everywhere!”<br />
As they enter their busiest season, extending<br />
well into the fall months, the company anticipates<br />
projected growth in southeastern North Carolina<br />
in the years to come. Although <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
Air generally does not engage in new building<br />
construction projects, the surge in construction in<br />
the region means an increasing number of families<br />
in need of HVAC services, and <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air is<br />
determined to be there for them.<br />
One of the challenges on the horizon, Manuel<br />
anticipates, is the scarcity of skilled tradespeople, such<br />
as service technicians, electricians, and plumbers,<br />
as fewer individuals seem to be gravitating toward<br />
these trades. Nevertheless, she has proactively forged<br />
a partnership with Cape Fear Community College,<br />
hoping to identify and attract talented individuals<br />
who can thrive in an environment that prioritizes<br />
training and development.<br />
While future challenges lie ahead, for now, the<br />
team at <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air remains committed to its<br />
core strength: delivering unparalleled service to<br />
its customers. Evidenced by their 4.9-star rating<br />
from over 1,000 reviews, as Jessica proudly shares,<br />
the name <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air speaks for itself. W<br />
38 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 39
art seen<br />
Ashley Merklinger (bottom<br />
left) brings joy to the Cargo<br />
District with a variety of<br />
ceramics class offerings.<br />
These Are a Few of My<br />
Favorite Things<br />
A beloved local ceramics shop shares the therapeutic art of pottery<br />
with students of all levels<br />
By KIM HENRY » Photos by ALLISON EDING of LIGHTBLOOM PHOTOGRAPHY<br />
IF YOU HAD TO PUT A FEW<br />
of your favorite things into one<br />
endeavor, what would it look like?<br />
And perhaps more importantly, what<br />
would it feel like? For Ashley Merklinger<br />
the answers to these questions became<br />
clear in the shape of Bookworm Pottery &<br />
Co. A lover of clay, cats, coffee and books,<br />
Merklinger’s logo encapsulates the essence<br />
of her gorgeous Cargo District ceramic<br />
studio, where people are encouraged to<br />
leave their expectations and business at<br />
the door and enjoy the experience of getting<br />
their hands on some clay. The creative<br />
dream of Merklinger, Bookworm Pottery &<br />
Co is a reflection of this innovative young<br />
woman’s gentle nature and easy-going<br />
vibe, and just walking through the door<br />
makes you want to sit down, turn off your<br />
phone and get a little messy.<br />
As an avid lover of books and a writer,<br />
Merklinger started out as an English<br />
major at UNCW, until a chance ceramics<br />
class changed the course of her life. “My<br />
boyfriend’s sister convinced me to do a<br />
pottery class with her and I agreed just<br />
for fun. Then I fell in love with it! It makes<br />
me happy,” smiles Merklinger, lovingly<br />
cutting up slabs of clay into workable, light<br />
grey mounds.<br />
40 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Merklinger believes<br />
that making time<br />
to be creative<br />
is beneficial for<br />
overall wellness and<br />
describes her classes<br />
as “pockets of rest.”<br />
Our office focuses on a wonderful patient<br />
experience by providing excellent care and<br />
outcomes. Our goal is to enhance, restore, and<br />
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Graduating just as the pandemic hit<br />
meant that there was little time to get<br />
a career going and Merklinger felt the<br />
intense stress negatively impacting<br />
her mental health. Thankfully, she<br />
space in <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s evolving Cargo<br />
District in the fall of 2021, and it’s been<br />
unfolding ever since.<br />
With a wide range of options available<br />
to suit all levels and a welcoming<br />
“My classes are like little pockets of rest.”<br />
gravitated back towards the things<br />
that made her feel good, and pottery<br />
was high on that list. Dedicated to her<br />
passion, despite an empty bank account,<br />
Merklinger managed to secure a great<br />
atmosphere, the studio’s success is<br />
not surprising. From a fun date night<br />
adventure to family-friendly handson<br />
clay classes to courses to help you<br />
get comfortable with a pottery wheel,<br />
910-547-1980<br />
@bluewatersurfaces<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 41
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Bookworm has something for everyone,<br />
regardless of experience with clay or<br />
limited time to learn something new.<br />
“One of the many things I love about<br />
pottery is that you can’t really fail,” says<br />
Merklinger as the pottery wheels in the<br />
background gently hum. “You can always<br />
reuse the clay or keep working it until you<br />
create something you like.”<br />
As one of the oldest art forms known to<br />
humans, ceramics spans many cultures<br />
and geographical areas, making it a<br />
timeless and tactile point of connection.<br />
Merklinger emphasizes that part of her<br />
42 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 43
art seen<br />
THANK YOU for<br />
voting us “Best<br />
of <strong>Wilmington</strong>”<br />
<strong>2023</strong>. It is and will<br />
always be our<br />
privilege to serve<br />
the great people<br />
of this beautiful<br />
city! Please stop<br />
by and see our<br />
new location.<br />
“One of the many things I love about pottery<br />
is that you can’t really fail.”<br />
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vision is to link as many people with<br />
ceramics as possible, firmly believing<br />
that being creative and trying new<br />
things is beneficial for overall wellness.<br />
And in a culture that hypes the need<br />
to overachieve, ceramics can provide a<br />
therapeutic outlet.<br />
“My classes are like little pockets of<br />
rest,” says Merklinger, surrounded by<br />
students’ pottery pieces, including some<br />
beautiful items on display for sale, and<br />
a comfy sofa complete with cushions in<br />
the corner. “I kind of wanted the studio to<br />
feel like you're in someone’s living room.”<br />
Well, mission accomplished. Bookworm is<br />
the least intimidating pottery studio I’ve<br />
ever been in. Merklinger and her fellow<br />
teaching artists expertly guide students to<br />
learn ceramic techniques and explore ideas<br />
but, at the end of the day, the ultimate gift<br />
is being able to provide a warm, safe space<br />
for people to play, discover and, perhaps, be<br />
pleasantly surprised by what they’re able<br />
to create.<br />
Between Merklinger and her team,<br />
Bookworm Pottery & Co has classes and<br />
workshops almost every day of the week.<br />
“It’s important to me that as a small,<br />
local business I can employ other people,”<br />
Merklinger says.<br />
A talented ceramicist herself, Merklinger<br />
credits these words of wisdom as the source<br />
of her inspiration: “I intentionally make<br />
my work colorful and inviting to remind<br />
others that life is beautiful, and its magic<br />
is endless. And I want to encourage people<br />
to use a piece made with intention in their<br />
daily life to remind them to slow down and<br />
truly enjoy it.” W<br />
44 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
THANKS FOR VOTING US<br />
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AD23_030D<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 45
A tree grows on the back<br />
side of barrier islands<br />
behind the dunes on<br />
Masonboro Island. The<br />
presence of the tree<br />
indicates the island is<br />
migrating landward, which<br />
is called island rollover, a<br />
natural process that occurs<br />
with storm activity and sea<br />
level rise.<br />
Sharing the Secrets of<br />
Our Natural Treasures<br />
A scientist and UNCW professor is on a quest to protect and<br />
spread awareness around North Carolina’s ecosystems<br />
By VERA WILSON<br />
HOW LUCKY ARE WE NATURE LOVERS WHO<br />
work and play in Southeastern North Carolina where,<br />
on any given day, we might leave our footprints in the<br />
golden sands of Carolina Beach, or observe a heron<br />
clutching a branch in her beak on her way to building a nest?<br />
According to Professor Roger Shew, scientist and senior lecturer<br />
of Geology and Environmental Science at UNC-<strong>Wilmington</strong>, we<br />
ain’t seen nothin’ yet.<br />
Shew is on a mission to share what he calls our area’s natural<br />
treasures. He believes that most of us who reside or visit the region<br />
are unaware of the beauty and mystique of the coastal plains<br />
around us, and he says it’s time to reveal its secrets.<br />
Shew has done this beautifully through a documentary called<br />
“Shew’s Natural Treasures.” The hour-long film takes us into the<br />
nooks and crannies of seven natural ecosystems: Carolina bays,<br />
longleaf pine savannas, carnivorous plants, the Cape Fear and<br />
Black River, old-growth cypress trees, salt marshes and barrier<br />
islands. In the film, we are introduced to native flora like some of<br />
the oldest living trees in the world and the enigmatic Venus flytrap<br />
that truly does exist outside of the movie “Little Shop of Horrors.”<br />
A native of Brunswick County, Shew has spent years educating<br />
not just UNCW students but local schoolchildren, community<br />
groups and lawmakers on the wonders of these treasures and how<br />
vital they are to our local way of life. Wanting to move beyond<br />
the PowerPoint slides he normally presents—“I wanted something<br />
that’s more than me just talking”—so he reached out to UNCW ‘s<br />
Director of Media Production, Jesse Bradley, about making a film.<br />
Bradley was quickly on board, and he and his production team<br />
worked for four years documenting the coastal plain with Shew.<br />
Of the experience, Bradley wrote: “Nature requires a certain<br />
PHOTO BRADLEY PEARCE, UNC WILMINGTON<br />
46 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 47
Roger Shew<br />
stands next to a<br />
Bald Cypress on<br />
the Black River in<br />
Pender County,<br />
one of the oldest<br />
trees east of the<br />
Rocky Mountains<br />
and 5th oldest<br />
tree in world at<br />
2,629 years old.<br />
Shew holds a<br />
tree core from<br />
one of the pines<br />
in Longleaf Pine<br />
Forest in the Green<br />
Swamp Preserve to<br />
illustrate the age<br />
of trees to his class.<br />
balance. Without our awe of nature, the balance seems uncertain.<br />
This experience enhanced my awe and connection to life.”<br />
Which takes us to another reason Shew made the film: to create<br />
awareness about the serious threats to these natural resources.<br />
“The film is a way to show people why they should be thinking<br />
about protecting these treasures,” says Shew. “There are three<br />
main threats to biodiversity: overexploitation, agriculture and<br />
urbanization. And we have all three in spades in Southeastern<br />
North Carolina. With all the development in the area, we are at<br />
risk of losing some of these wonders.”<br />
Shew cites dangers such as hazardous substances flowing<br />
from animal operations into the Cape Fear River, stormwater<br />
runoff impairing our tidal creeks, deforestation to make way for<br />
development and silviculture, the practice of controlling forests for<br />
desired outcomes (mainly for timber production).<br />
But Shew doesn’t seem like the kind of guy to tie himself<br />
to a tree to safeguard it. He believes that there are steps that<br />
environmentalists, developers and the government can take<br />
together to preserve our natural resources.<br />
“I understand private ownership, but sometimes it doesn’t make<br />
sense to do certain things,” he explains. Shew uses the proposal<br />
for a hotel on Eagle Island as an example, believing development<br />
there would lead to safety issues. Instead, he would like to discuss<br />
alternative uses for the land. “For instance, it could become an<br />
ecotourism destination and be a perfect complement to the<br />
battleship,” he says.<br />
He also believes that developers and regulators may sometimes<br />
have the best of intentions in preserving natural space, but don’t<br />
quite understand what these ecosystems need to survive.<br />
“Take, for example, the red-headed woodpecker. One family<br />
unit needs a habitat of about 180 to 200 acres,” says Shew. “If you<br />
start fragmenting the land and bisecting it by roads, you’ve lost<br />
that ability.”<br />
Committed land management is also important, such as<br />
controlled burns.<br />
“One of the things people need to be understanding of is fire,”<br />
he says. “Fire is also restorative. We need support for places like<br />
the Nature Conservancy and the Forest Service to make sure it’s<br />
done correctly.”<br />
Shew is not all gloom and doom. He’s happy to report<br />
the successes.<br />
“Where I grew up in Brunswick County in the ‘60s, you could<br />
hardly see a black bear and never saw turkey because they were<br />
hunted out,” he says. “If you went to the beach, you never saw brown<br />
pelicans due to the DDT, but today they all have healthy populations.”<br />
Shew weaves storytelling into the film to peak interest, like the<br />
belief by some that a giant prehistoric fish created the Carolina<br />
bays as a result of a mating ritual. Native Waccamaw Siouans<br />
believe a star fell from heaven causing all the surrounding waters<br />
to flow in the ensuing crater, creating Lake Waccamaw.<br />
One thing’s for sure, Shew won’t rest until his natural treasures<br />
are preserved for future generations.<br />
“With the documentary, I want to make sure that people realize<br />
what some of these treasures really are and how they look in their<br />
healthy state,” he says. “And if they see them that way, I think<br />
they’ll cherish them and try to protect them a little bit more.”<br />
To find out about future screenings, please visit Shew’s website:<br />
people.uncw.edu/shewr. W<br />
BALD CYPRESS PHOTO DALE SHEW; GREEN SWAMP PHOTO JEFF JANOWSKI, UNC WILMINGTON<br />
48 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
oating fashion farmers market<br />
Models sporting<br />
the latest styles<br />
on a day trip to<br />
Masonboro Island<br />
from boutiques<br />
CoolSweats at the<br />
Beach and Bloke<br />
Apparel & Supply.<br />
A Day on<br />
the Water<br />
Island hop in the latest<br />
styles from local boutiques<br />
See page 52<br />
PHOTO DARIA AMATO<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 49
PARTNER CONTENT<br />
boating<br />
Navigating<br />
Success<br />
After 20 Years, Faith, Family and Fun continue<br />
to anchor Anglers Marine NC<br />
By JOE JANCSURAK<br />
tournament fishermen.”<br />
“When we fish with our customers,<br />
they get to see how our boats perform<br />
in tournament conditions,” C.W. says.<br />
“And we, in turn, can gain a first-hand<br />
understanding of their needs such as<br />
state-of-the-art electronics and equipment<br />
necessary for a successful trip. We also get<br />
to share in their joy and excitement when<br />
they land a big fish.”<br />
Dual Commitment<br />
The Anglers family and 26-person team<br />
remain committed to meeting the needs<br />
of their customers. “We have hundreds of<br />
boats and the area’s most knowledgeable<br />
sales staff,” says Carol, who also stresses<br />
the team’s faith-based commitment, which<br />
she believes has enabled them to overcome<br />
business challenges over the years and to<br />
take risks.<br />
“With any business, you can’t be afraid<br />
to take risks, and we’re not,” Carol says.<br />
“Though we have much to be grateful for,<br />
we’ve had our share of bumps along the<br />
way. When we started in 2003, the economy<br />
and the boating industry were strong. Then<br />
came the 2008 recession. We were small<br />
with just five employees and a lot of money<br />
tied up in inventory. There were times when<br />
we had to tap our home equity line of credit.<br />
Through it all, we prayed.”<br />
Despite supply chain issues during the<br />
pandemic, sales skyrocketed as people<br />
turned more to outdoor activities. And,<br />
perhaps, because God is central to Anglers’<br />
way of doing business, “We always depend<br />
on God to make a way for us,” Carol<br />
proclaims. “He did 20 years ago, and He<br />
continues to do so today.” W<br />
PHOTOS ANGLERS MARINE<br />
SELLING FAMILY FUN, ONE<br />
boat at a time, and practicing<br />
their faith one day at a time has<br />
proven to be a successful business<br />
formula for Anglers Marine NC, a 20-year<br />
family-owned and operated business with<br />
locations in Supply, Clayton, and its newest<br />
store in Morehead City.<br />
Overseeing operations is C.W. Hamilton,<br />
president; his wife Carol, chief financial<br />
officer; their son Wes, vice president and<br />
general manager; and their daughter Dana<br />
Hobbs, account executive.<br />
“There’s something very special about<br />
being on a boat, where you disengage from<br />
your devices and instead engage with<br />
family and friends and just have fun,”<br />
Carol says. C.W. and Carol raised their two<br />
children out on the water and know what<br />
valuable memories await other families<br />
and their friends, who also share a love for<br />
the water.<br />
“Wes grew up fishing and winning<br />
tournaments,” Carol says. “Now with<br />
families of their own, the tradition is passed<br />
onto the Hamilton (Wes) and Hobbs (Dana)<br />
children. “Our customers embrace us as<br />
a family business that promotes family<br />
fun, and they appreciate the experience<br />
that Wes and C.W. bring with them as<br />
50 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 51
CoolSweats at the Beach<br />
coolsweatsatthebeach.com<br />
Purple top by WILT,<br />
$122; White shorts by<br />
mododoc, $82.<br />
A Day<br />
on the Water<br />
When in <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
especially during its<br />
hottest months, nothing<br />
beats a day out on the<br />
water. Enjoy spectacular<br />
views of Wrightsville’s<br />
salt marshes on the way<br />
to Masonboro Island and<br />
back with these laidback,<br />
summer styles that are<br />
the perfect complement for<br />
your next island-hopping<br />
adventure, complete with<br />
more dressed up options<br />
for exploring the town<br />
dockside.<br />
52 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Bloke Apparel & Supply<br />
blokeapparel.com<br />
I-SEA polarized El Morro<br />
glasses in gold, $32;<br />
Havana Weekend shirt<br />
by Mavrans, $99; Havana<br />
Weekend swim shorts by<br />
Mavrans, $99.<br />
Photos: DARIA AMATO<br />
Models: PAYTON DEITRICK (p 52), FINLAY AUSTIN<br />
(p 53), KRISTINA DI GIOVANNI (p 56)<br />
Stylist: DANIELLE HARRIS, The Modified Style<br />
Location: Day trip to Masonboro Island with<br />
Jeff Brown Yachts<br />
A special thank you to Nate Evans for showing us around<br />
Masonboro Island in-style on a luxurious BRABUS<br />
Shadow 500 T-Top. Jeff Brown Yachts has recently<br />
expanded their services from the West Coast to the East<br />
Coast at Wrightsville Beach; you'll find the office at<br />
100 Keel Street near Mott's Channel Seafood. If you're<br />
interested in learning how to expand your adventures<br />
in an exciting new breed of Axopar or BRABUS marine<br />
vessel, give Nate a call at 910-612-7651 or email him<br />
at nate@jeffbrownyachts.com.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 53
Bloke Apparel & Supply<br />
blokeapparel.com<br />
I-SEA polarized Sawy<br />
glasses in black, $65;<br />
Short sleeve cotton<br />
tencel shirt in b&w<br />
floral, $85; Stretch<br />
knit jacquard shorts in<br />
white by postmarc, $89;<br />
SeaChange white leather<br />
shoes, $92.<br />
54 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
CoolSweats at the Beach<br />
coolsweatsatthebeach.com<br />
Pink dress by STARKx, $198.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 55
'edet by Island Passage<br />
edetbyislandpassage.com<br />
C.C Exclusives straw hat,<br />
$34; Sweater in cream by By<br />
Together, $44; Mika tank<br />
in adobe by Z Supply, $54;<br />
Georgie short in indigo<br />
by Steve Madden, $48;<br />
Vegan belt bag from Urban<br />
Expressions, $54; Acrylic<br />
hoop earrings by 'edet,<br />
$16; Cowry shell necklace<br />
by 'edet, $12; Knox slide in<br />
navy by Steve Madden, $58.<br />
56 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
'edet by Island Passage<br />
edetbyislandpassage.com<br />
B&W dress by Steve<br />
Madden, $118; Gene<br />
raffia shoe by Steve<br />
Madden, $84.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 57
farmers market<br />
The Riverfront Farmers<br />
Market is <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s<br />
longest running<br />
downtown farmers<br />
market, celebrating 20<br />
years this year.<br />
Know Your Growers<br />
A guide to local farmers markets and why it’s important to support them<br />
By JUDY ROYAL » Photos CARIN HALL<br />
YOU KNOW SUMMER IS<br />
near when the farmers<br />
markets start popping back<br />
up. No matter where you<br />
are in the <strong>Wilmington</strong> area,<br />
you won’t have to travel too far to find an<br />
outdoor gathering place that showcases<br />
fresh local produce and connects<br />
consumers directly with those who grow<br />
the food.<br />
Farmers markets are more fun than<br />
your typical trip to the grocery store,<br />
offering shoppers a unique experience.<br />
But they also directly support the local<br />
economy and give access to products that<br />
have traveled just a few miles from where<br />
they originated.<br />
Get to know your growers at the<br />
following markets this summer and fall:<br />
Riverfront Farmers Market<br />
Saturday<br />
riverfrontfarmersmarket.org<br />
Celebrating 20 years, the Riverfront<br />
Farmers Market has been a prime spot<br />
for locally grown and produced foods in<br />
downtown <strong>Wilmington</strong> since 2003. The<br />
market sets up on Dock Street between<br />
Second and Water streets Saturdays from<br />
8am–1pm, April 1–November 18.<br />
“This was envisioned as an event<br />
that would enrich the community by<br />
providing a social gathering and a source<br />
of healthy foods for the community,” says<br />
James Christopher of Cool <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
who manages the market. “We are the<br />
longest continuously running farmers<br />
market in <strong>Wilmington</strong>, and the market<br />
has changed quite a bit over the last two<br />
decades. The <strong>Wilmington</strong> community<br />
has really embraced this market. We are<br />
now probably five times the size of our<br />
first markets.”<br />
Farmers markets are an integral part of<br />
the community, he says.<br />
“Our members are your neighbors,”<br />
says Christopher. “When you buy from the<br />
farmers market, you are buying locally<br />
grown produce and you are supporting<br />
your friends and neighbors. Most of the<br />
food that is purchased at local grocery<br />
chains has been transported over 1,300<br />
miles and touched by dozens of people<br />
before it ends up on your table. That is<br />
not the case with the Riverfront Farmers<br />
Market, where the person who is selling<br />
the product to you is the person who<br />
planted it, cultivated it and harvested it.”<br />
58 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
The Riverfront Farmers Market, which<br />
has an average attendance of 2,500 to<br />
3,000 visitors per week, often acts as an<br />
incubator for small businesses, he adds.<br />
“By providing a wealth of marketing<br />
and outreach to the <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
community, we provide our members<br />
with an amazing opportunity to begin a<br />
small business and connect one on one<br />
with their clientele,” says Christopher.<br />
“In many instances, our members have<br />
decided to take the next step and open<br />
brick-and-mortar storefronts. I think they<br />
feel confident in doing this because they<br />
know they have built a consumer base and<br />
built their brand through the Riverfront<br />
Farmers Market.”<br />
Vegan restaurant Panacea Brewing<br />
Company, located at 4107 Oleander<br />
Drive in <strong>Wilmington</strong>, is an example of a<br />
local business that launched at Port City<br />
farmers markets. Owners Artie and Robin<br />
Hill began selling their locally brewed<br />
kombucha from a Volkswagen bus in 2016.<br />
“We started the Riverfront Farmers<br />
Market, and it was very important for our<br />
business,” says Robin. “Attending farmers<br />
markets for a lot of people is very habitual,<br />
and it became just a very easy way to<br />
connect with our customers every single<br />
week. They knew we would be there. They<br />
knew they could bring their bottles and<br />
refill them. So, the education piece was<br />
very important, and it allowed us to meet<br />
a lot of people when we had zero budget<br />
for advertising.”<br />
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910-763-9870<br />
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Farmers markets<br />
provide opportunities<br />
for small farmers and<br />
businesses to sell their<br />
products, and they<br />
help meet the growing<br />
demand for locally<br />
produced food.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 59
iverfront<br />
The Riverfront Farmers<br />
Market is managed by<br />
Cool <strong>Wilmington</strong>, a local<br />
event management and<br />
production company.<br />
Wrightsville Beach Farmers Market<br />
Monday<br />
townofwrightsvillebeach.com<br />
Located on the Municipal Grounds<br />
off West Salisbury Street adjacent to<br />
Town Hall, the Wrightsville Beach<br />
Farmers Market began in June 2009.<br />
It takes place Mondays from 8am–1pm,<br />
May 15–December 4. Free parking in the<br />
surrounding field is available for patrons.<br />
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us BEST CHILDREN’S<br />
CLOTHING STORE!<br />
High-quality, modern and trendy looks for<br />
newborn through toddler, including clothing,<br />
hats, accessories, toys and gifts that appeal<br />
to the local vibe of our coastal community.<br />
BinkyBro, Coco Moon, George Hats,<br />
Lenox James, Little Rad Things,<br />
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338 Nutt St, <strong>Wilmington</strong> • 910-228-5351 • littlelocalsclothingco.com<br />
Poplar Grove Plantation Farmers Market<br />
Wednesday<br />
poplargrove.org<br />
Come to historic Poplar Grove Plantation,<br />
10200 U.S. Highway 17 in the Scotts Hill<br />
area of <strong>Wilmington</strong>, for a farmers market<br />
every Wednesday from 8am–1pm, April 12–<br />
September 27. The market strives to promote<br />
local farmers and the use of local products.<br />
The <strong>Wilmington</strong> Farmers Market<br />
at Tidal Creek<br />
Saturday<br />
thewilmingtonfarmersmarket.com<br />
Just outside Tidal Creek Co-op, 5329<br />
Oleander Drive in <strong>Wilmington</strong>, is The<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Farmers Market, which<br />
started in spring 2018 when a group of<br />
local farmers got together. It happens<br />
Saturdays from 8am–1pm all year long<br />
and offers local produce, meats, seafood,<br />
eggs, bread and other staple food items.<br />
Carolina Beach Market<br />
Saturday<br />
carolinabeach.org<br />
Although the Carolina Beach Market<br />
is not designated as a farmers market,<br />
you can find several local growers set up<br />
among the vendors. It’s at Lake Park,<br />
400 S. Lake Park Blvd. in Carolina<br />
Beach every Saturday from 8am–1pm,<br />
May 20–September 30. W<br />
60 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>Wilmington</strong> <strong>Magazine</strong>'s Readers' Choice<br />
The BEST of the BEST AWARDS… From the CITY to the BEACHES…<br />
By CARIN HALL and FANNY SLATER<br />
ONCE AGAIN, YOU CAST YOUR VOTES, AND WE'VE HEEDED YOUR<br />
feedback regarding the beloved spots in the <strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC vicinity. Whether you're a longstanding<br />
coastal resident or a recent arrival, this comprehensive guide is here to assist you<br />
in navigating shopping, dining, or finding specific services. Are you in search of a wedding<br />
planner, a veterinary clinic, or a personal trainer? Look no further as we present to you the<br />
winners of our Best of <strong>Wilmington</strong> <strong>2023</strong> Awards. Discover up and coming businesses, as<br />
well as some old favorites, as we unveil this year’s top choices in town!<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 61
Best Service <strong>2023</strong><br />
APARTMENT COMPLEX<br />
Bellingham Park<br />
Apartments<br />
910-637-6277<br />
livebellinghampark.com<br />
Bellingham Park is a vibrant<br />
residential community, offering<br />
a perfect blend of comfort and<br />
convenience, this business<br />
provides modern apartment<br />
homes with spacious layouts<br />
and top-notch amenities.<br />
Residents can enjoy a resortstyle<br />
swimming pool, fitness<br />
center, clubhouse, and lush<br />
green spaces. With its prime<br />
location near shopping, dining,<br />
and entertainment options,<br />
Bellingham Park is an ideal<br />
place to call home for those<br />
seeking a contemporary and<br />
dynamic living experience<br />
in <strong>Wilmington</strong>.<br />
ARCHITECT<br />
Kevin Pfirman Architect<br />
PLLC<br />
910-538-2170<br />
pfirman.com<br />
Kevin Pfirman Architect PLLC<br />
is a renowned architectural<br />
firm offering innovative design<br />
solutions in North Carolina's<br />
coastal region. With a focus<br />
on creating functional and<br />
aesthetically pleasing spaces,<br />
Kevin Pfirman and his team<br />
Amanda Mason<br />
of Mason,<br />
Mason, and<br />
Smith,<br />
Attorneys<br />
at Law<br />
bring expertise and creativity to<br />
every project. From residential<br />
homes to commercial buildings,<br />
their designs blend seamlessly<br />
with the natural surroundings<br />
while meeting clients'<br />
unique requirements. With<br />
a commitment to excellence<br />
and attention to detail, Kevin<br />
Pfirman Architect delivers<br />
architectural designs that<br />
inspire and elevate the<br />
built environment.<br />
ASSISTED LIVING CENTER<br />
Carolina Bay at<br />
Autumn Hall<br />
910-769-7500<br />
carolinabayatautumnhall.com<br />
Carolina Bay at Autumn<br />
Hall is a premier senior<br />
living community nestled in<br />
a picturesque coastal setting.<br />
Offering a luxurious and<br />
comfortable lifestyle, this<br />
business provides a range<br />
of living options including<br />
independent living, assisted<br />
living, and memory care.<br />
With a focus on personalized<br />
care and a vibrant social<br />
calendar, residents can enjoy<br />
a host of amenities such as<br />
gourmet dining, fitness center,<br />
beautifully landscaped grounds,<br />
and engaging activities.<br />
Carolina Bay at Autumn Hall is<br />
dedicated to ensuring the wellbeing<br />
and happiness of seniors<br />
in a welcoming and supportive<br />
environment.<br />
ATTORNEY<br />
Amanda Mason<br />
910-444-3505<br />
masonmasonlaw.com<br />
Amanda Mason, a dedicated<br />
attorney with over two decades<br />
of experience, specializes in<br />
family law and civil litigation,<br />
serving both individuals and<br />
businesses. Since graduating<br />
from the University of Arizona<br />
School of Law in 2003, she has<br />
been committed to providing<br />
comprehensive representation<br />
in state and federal courts.<br />
With a particular focus<br />
on assisting businesses,<br />
professionals, banks, and<br />
individuals with their litigation<br />
needs, Amanda leverages<br />
her extensive courtroom<br />
experience to guide clients<br />
through challenging situations.<br />
In domestic and family law<br />
cases, she fiercely advocates<br />
for her clients' rights during<br />
separations, divorces, and child<br />
custody disputes.<br />
BANK<br />
South State Bank<br />
800-277-2175<br />
southstatebank.com<br />
South State Bank is a trusted<br />
financial institution offering a<br />
range of banking services. With<br />
a customer-centric approach,<br />
they provide personalized<br />
solutions to meet the financial<br />
needs of individuals and<br />
businesses. Whether it's<br />
checking and savings accounts,<br />
loans, or investment options,<br />
South State Bank delivers<br />
professional expertise and<br />
excellent customer service to<br />
help customers achieve their<br />
financial goals.<br />
BLINDS, SHUTTERS, & WINDOW<br />
TREATMENTS<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Blind, Shutter<br />
& Closet Co.<br />
910-799-8101<br />
wilmingtonblind.com<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Blind, Shutter &<br />
Closet Co specializes in custom<br />
window treatments and closet<br />
organization systems. With<br />
a wide selection of blinds,<br />
shutters, shades, and innovative<br />
storage solutions, they enhance<br />
the functionality and style<br />
of any space. Their team of<br />
experts offers personalized<br />
design consultations and<br />
professional installations to<br />
ensure customer satisfaction<br />
and transform homes or offices<br />
into beautifully organized<br />
environments.<br />
BOAT DEALER<br />
MarineMax Wrightsville<br />
Beach<br />
910-256-8100<br />
marinemax.com<br />
Marine Max is a leading boat<br />
dealer and service provider,<br />
catering to boating enthusiasts.<br />
Offering an extensive inventory<br />
of new and used boats from<br />
top brands, they provide<br />
options for every type of water<br />
adventure. Their knowledgeable<br />
staff assists customers in<br />
finding the perfect vessel<br />
and offers maintenance and<br />
repair services to keep boats<br />
in top condition, ensuring a<br />
seamless and enjoyable boating<br />
experience.<br />
CAR DEALERSHIP<br />
Stevenson-Hendrick Honda<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910-777-5828<br />
stevensonhendrickhonda.com<br />
Stevenson-Hendrick Honda<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> is a reputable car<br />
dealership, offering a wide<br />
selection of new and pre-owned<br />
vehicles. With a commitment<br />
to customer satisfaction, their<br />
knowledgeable sales team<br />
guides customers through the<br />
car buying process, providing<br />
expert advice and competitive<br />
financing options. With<br />
quality service and reliable<br />
vehicles, Hendrick Honda<br />
strives to make car ownership<br />
a pleasurable and hassle-free<br />
experience.<br />
CREDIT UNION<br />
Corning Credit Union<br />
910-392-6688<br />
corningcu.org<br />
Corning Credit Union is a<br />
trusted financial institution,<br />
serving members with a variety<br />
of banking services. From<br />
checking and savings accounts<br />
to loans and mortgages, they<br />
provide personalized solutions<br />
to meet individual and business<br />
financial needs. With a focus<br />
on member satisfaction,<br />
Corning Credit Union offers<br />
62 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
competitive rates, convenient<br />
digital banking options, and<br />
exceptional customer service.<br />
DAYCARE<br />
Milestones Learning Center<br />
910-452-3202<br />
milestonesilm.com<br />
Milestones Learning Center is<br />
a nurturing and educational<br />
childcare center, dedicated<br />
to the development of young<br />
minds. Their experienced<br />
teachers create a stimulating<br />
and engaging environment,<br />
fostering early learning through<br />
age-appropriate activities and<br />
curriculum. Their philosophy is<br />
play-based and developmentally<br />
appropriate for young children.<br />
Holding a five-star rating, the<br />
highest rating possible, from<br />
the N.C. Division of Child<br />
Development, the center offers<br />
five-day, three-day, and twoday-a-week<br />
options. With a focus<br />
on social and academic growth,<br />
Milestones Learning Center<br />
provides a safe and supportive<br />
space for children to explore,<br />
learn, and thrive.<br />
FINANCIAL ADVISOR<br />
Masonboro Advisors<br />
910-742-0509<br />
masonboroadvisors.com<br />
Masonboro Advisors is a<br />
trusted financial planning and<br />
wealth management firm. With<br />
a client-centered approach,<br />
their team of professionals<br />
offers personalized strategies to<br />
help individuals and businesses<br />
achieve their financial goals.<br />
From retirement planning<br />
to investment management,<br />
Marine Max has an extensive<br />
inventory of new and used<br />
boats from top brands.<br />
Masonboro Advisors provides<br />
comprehensive services backed<br />
by expert knowledge and a<br />
commitment to building longterm<br />
relationships with<br />
their clients.<br />
FLOORING COMPANY<br />
Ed Newsome’s<br />
Hardwood Floors<br />
910-791-9000<br />
newsomefloors.com<br />
Ed Newsome Hardwood Floors<br />
specializes in the installation,<br />
repair, and refinishing of<br />
hardwood flooring. With years<br />
of experience, their skilled<br />
craftsmen deliver exceptional<br />
results, transforming spaces<br />
with the beauty and durability<br />
of hardwood. From classic<br />
to contemporary styles, Ed<br />
Newsome Hardwood Floors<br />
provides quality workmanship<br />
and personalized service to<br />
create stunning floors that<br />
enhance any home or business.<br />
FUNERAL HOME<br />
Coble Ward-Smith Funeral<br />
& Cremation Service<br />
910-791-4444<br />
dignitymemorial.com<br />
Coble Ward-Smith Funeral<br />
Service is a compassionate<br />
funeral home providing<br />
support and guidance during<br />
difficult times. With a focus<br />
on honoring and celebrating<br />
lives, they offer a range of<br />
funeral and memorial services<br />
tailored to individual needs<br />
and cultural traditions. With<br />
professionalism and empathy,<br />
Coble Ward-Smith Funeral<br />
Service assists families in<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Blind, Shutter<br />
& Closet Co offers a<br />
wide selection of blinds,<br />
shutters, shades and<br />
storage solutions.<br />
creating meaningful tributes<br />
to their loved ones, offering<br />
comfort and solace.<br />
HEATING & AIR<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air<br />
910-791-1988<br />
wilmingtonair.com<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Air is a trusted<br />
HVAC company, offering<br />
reliable heating and cooling<br />
solutions. Their team of<br />
experienced technicians<br />
provides installation,<br />
maintenance, and repair<br />
services for residential and<br />
commercial properties. With<br />
a commitment to customer<br />
satisfaction, <strong>Wilmington</strong> Air<br />
ensures optimal comfort and<br />
energy efficiency by delivering<br />
top-quality HVAC systems<br />
and exceptional service.<br />
HOME AUDIO<br />
Connected Home<br />
910-317-0876<br />
connectedhomenc.com<br />
Connected Home is a<br />
technology integration<br />
company specializing in<br />
smart home solutions. With<br />
expertise in home automation,<br />
audiovisual systems, security,<br />
and more, they enhance the<br />
functionality and convenience<br />
of living spaces. Their<br />
skilled technicians design<br />
and install custom solutions<br />
tailored to each client's needs,<br />
providing seamless control<br />
and connectivity throughout<br />
the home.<br />
HOME BUILDER<br />
Sligh Homes Phone<br />
910-465-3997<br />
slighhomes.com<br />
Sligh Homes is a reputable<br />
home builder known for quality<br />
craftsmanship and attention<br />
to detail. With a focus on<br />
customer satisfaction, they<br />
create custom homes and<br />
remodel existing properties,<br />
turning visions into reality.<br />
Sligh Homes offers personalized<br />
design consultations, superior<br />
construction techniques, and<br />
reliable project management to<br />
ensure a smooth and successful<br />
building process.<br />
HOME CLEANING SERVICE<br />
Carolina Cleaning Services<br />
910-790-4589<br />
carolinacleaning.net<br />
Carolina Cleaning Services is<br />
a family-owned professional<br />
cleaning company providing<br />
exceptional service throughout<br />
New Hanover, Brunswick, and<br />
Pender Counties. Whether<br />
it's commercial spaces or<br />
residential properties, their<br />
dedicated team delivers spotless<br />
results, tailored to each client's<br />
needs. Carolina Cleaning<br />
Services employs a highly<br />
trained staff and offers flexible<br />
scheduling to accommodate the<br />
cleaning requirements of their<br />
diverse clientele. They are fully<br />
insured, licensed, bonded and<br />
have excellent references—they<br />
guarantee satisfaction with<br />
each client.<br />
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Best Service <strong>2023</strong><br />
HOME SECURITY<br />
Sentinel Security Systems<br />
910-395-6141<br />
sentinel-security-systems.com<br />
Sentinel is a reputable security<br />
systems company, providing<br />
comprehensive solutions to<br />
protect homes and businesses.<br />
With cutting-edge technology<br />
and expert knowledge,<br />
they offer alarm systems,<br />
surveillance cameras, access<br />
control, and other security<br />
features. Sentinel's dedicated<br />
team designs customized<br />
security systems, installs and<br />
maintains them with precision,<br />
ensuring peace of mind and<br />
a safe environment for their<br />
clients.<br />
INSURANCE PROVIDER<br />
Don Bullard Insurance<br />
910-791-5400<br />
donbullard.com<br />
Don Bullard Insurance is a<br />
trusted insurance agency,<br />
offering a wide range of<br />
coverage options for individuals<br />
and businesses. With a focus<br />
on personalized service, their<br />
experienced agents help clients<br />
find the right policies for their<br />
specific needs. From auto and<br />
home insurance to commercial<br />
and life insurance, Don Bullard<br />
Insurance provides reliable<br />
protection and peace of mind.<br />
INTERIOR DESIGNER<br />
Mickler & Co. Design Studio<br />
910-431-2018<br />
micklerco.com<br />
Mickler & Co. Design Studio is<br />
a creative agency specializing<br />
in interior design and home<br />
staging. With a keen eye for<br />
aesthetics and functionality,<br />
their talented team transforms<br />
spaces into stunning and<br />
inviting environments. Whether<br />
it's residential or commercial<br />
projects, Mickler & Co. Design<br />
Studio offers personalized<br />
design solutions that reflect<br />
clients' unique styles and<br />
enhance their living or working<br />
spaces.<br />
KITCHEN & BATH RENOVATIONS<br />
Classic Kitchen & Bath<br />
910-218-0098<br />
classickitchens.com<br />
Classic Kitchen & Bath is<br />
a reputable kitchen and<br />
bathroom remodeling company,<br />
known for their expertise<br />
in creating functional and<br />
beautiful spaces. With a focus<br />
on quality craftsmanship,<br />
they offer custom cabinetry,<br />
countertops, fixtures, and more,<br />
Classic Kitchen & Bath<br />
is well-known for<br />
creating functional<br />
and beautiful spaces.<br />
LowCountry Landscape<br />
offers landscape design,<br />
installation, hardscaping<br />
and maintenance.<br />
tailored to clients' preferences.<br />
Classic Kitchen & Bath's<br />
team of professionals provides<br />
personalized consultations,<br />
meticulous installations, and<br />
exceptional service to bring<br />
clients' dream spaces to life.<br />
LANDSCAPER<br />
LowCountry Landscape<br />
910-200-1489<br />
lowcountrylandscaping.com<br />
LowCountry Landscape is a<br />
trusted landscaping company,<br />
dedicated to creating and<br />
maintaining beautiful outdoor<br />
spaces. Their skilled team<br />
offers a range of services,<br />
including landscape design,<br />
installation, hardscaping, and<br />
maintenance. With attention<br />
to detail and a passion for<br />
nature, LowCountry Landscape<br />
transforms yards into stunning<br />
and functional landscapes that<br />
enhance the beauty and value<br />
of properties.<br />
MORTGAGE COMPANY<br />
MC Mortgage Group<br />
910-200-8859<br />
mcmortgagegroup.com<br />
MC Mortgage Group is a<br />
reputable mortgage brokerage,<br />
assisting individuals and<br />
families in finding the right<br />
financing options for their<br />
homes. With access to a wide<br />
network of lenders, they<br />
offer competitive rates and<br />
personalized advice to help<br />
clients navigate the mortgage<br />
process. MC Mortgage Group's<br />
dedicated team provides<br />
exceptional customer service<br />
and strives to make the<br />
homebuying journey smooth<br />
and successful.<br />
PEST CONTROL<br />
Jay Taylor Exterminating<br />
910-387-4767<br />
jaytaylorexterminating.com<br />
Jay Taylor Exterminating is a<br />
trusted pest control company,<br />
specializing in residential and<br />
commercial pest management.<br />
With expertise in dealing<br />
with various pests, they<br />
offer customized solutions<br />
to eradicate and prevent<br />
infestations. Jay Taylor<br />
Exterminating's licensed<br />
technicians employ safe and<br />
effective methods to ensure<br />
a pest-free environment,<br />
protecting homes and businesses<br />
from unwanted intruders.<br />
PET GROOMER<br />
The Grooming Center<br />
910-395-087<br />
The Grooming Center is a<br />
professional pet grooming<br />
salon dedicated to providing<br />
exceptional care and styling for<br />
furry friends. Their experienced<br />
groomers offer a range of<br />
services, including bathing,<br />
haircuts, nail trimming, and<br />
more, tailored to the needs of<br />
each pet. With a focus on gentle<br />
handling and a stress-free<br />
environment, The Grooming<br />
Center ensures pets look and<br />
feel their best.<br />
64 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
PLUMBING<br />
DiMone Plumbing<br />
910-769-1838<br />
plumber-wilmington.com<br />
DiMone Plumbing is a reliable<br />
plumbing company, offering a<br />
range of services for residential<br />
and commercial properties.<br />
From repairs and installations<br />
to maintenance and emergency<br />
services, their skilled plumbers<br />
deliver efficient and highquality<br />
solutions. DiMone<br />
Plumbing's commitment to<br />
customer satisfaction and their<br />
expertise in the field make<br />
them a trusted choice for all<br />
plumbing needs.<br />
POOL COMPANY<br />
A C Pools Inc<br />
910-620-3995<br />
A C Pools is a reputable pool<br />
construction and maintenance<br />
company, providing<br />
comprehensive services to<br />
create and maintain stunning<br />
swimming pools. With expertise<br />
in pool design, installation,<br />
and repairs, they bring dreams<br />
of backyard oasis to life. A<br />
C Pools also offers regular<br />
maintenance and cleaning<br />
services to ensure pools remain<br />
in pristine condition, providing<br />
a refreshing and enjoyable<br />
experience for their clients.<br />
PRIVATE SCHOOL<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Christian<br />
Academy<br />
910-791-4248<br />
wilmingtonchristian.com<br />
For over 50 years, <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
Christian Academy has offered<br />
the most comprehensive<br />
Christian education in<br />
Connected Home specializes<br />
in home automation,<br />
audiovisual systems, security<br />
and more.<br />
Kevin Pfirman<br />
create architectural<br />
designs that inspire<br />
and elevate the<br />
built environment.<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> by serving families<br />
with children ages PK2 through<br />
12th grade. Established in<br />
1969, WCA has an unyielding<br />
commitment to excellence and<br />
a mission to produce wellrounded<br />
students that has<br />
been valued and appreciated<br />
by thousands of families<br />
and multiple generations. As<br />
the largest private school in<br />
Southeastern North Carolina,<br />
WCA is dedicated to educating<br />
the whole child; spiritually,<br />
academically, socially and<br />
physically with a faith-based,<br />
rigorous academic curriculum,<br />
while also affording an<br />
opportunity to participate<br />
in the arts, athletics, and<br />
numerous other extracurricular<br />
activities.<br />
REAL ESTATE<br />
Intracoastal Realty<br />
910-256-4503<br />
intracoastalrealty.com<br />
Intracoastal Real Estate is<br />
a trusted real estate agency,<br />
specializing in residential<br />
and commercial properties.<br />
Their knowledgeable agents<br />
assist buyers and sellers in<br />
navigating the real estate<br />
Under the leadership of<br />
Aneliese Andrades, Carolina<br />
Cleaning has been growing<br />
and serving the Cape Fear<br />
region for 30 years.<br />
market, providing expert advice<br />
and personalized service. With<br />
a focus on client satisfaction,<br />
Intracoastal Real Estate<br />
helps clients find their dream<br />
homes or make successful<br />
investments, ensuring a smooth<br />
and rewarding real estate<br />
experience.<br />
TAX PREP<br />
Adam Shay CPA<br />
910-256-3456<br />
wilmingtontaxesandaccounting.com<br />
Adam Shay CPA is a<br />
reputable accounting firm,<br />
providing a range of financial<br />
services to individuals and<br />
businesses. With expertise<br />
in tax planning and<br />
preparation, bookkeeping,<br />
and financial consulting, they<br />
offer personalized solutions<br />
to help clients achieve their<br />
financial goals. Adam Shay<br />
CPA combines professional<br />
expertise and a clientcentered<br />
approach to deliver<br />
accurate and timely financial<br />
services.<br />
VETERINARIAN<br />
Paws & Claws<br />
910-821-3991<br />
pawsclawsah.com<br />
Paws & Claws is a trusted<br />
pet care service, offering<br />
pet sitting and grooming<br />
services. With a love for<br />
animals and a commitment<br />
to their well-being,<br />
their experienced team<br />
provides personalized care<br />
and attention to furry<br />
companions. Paws & Claws<br />
ensures pets receive the<br />
exercise, companionship,<br />
and grooming they need,<br />
giving pet owners peace of<br />
mind while they're away.<br />
WEDDING PLANNER<br />
Brittanie Raquel Events<br />
910-619-4615<br />
brittanieraquelevents.com<br />
Brittanie Raquel Events is<br />
a premier event planning<br />
company, specializing in<br />
creating extraordinary and<br />
memorable experiences. From<br />
weddings to corporate events,<br />
their skilled team brings<br />
visions to life, handling every<br />
detail with precision and<br />
creativity. Brittanie Raquel<br />
Events offers personalized<br />
consultations, flawless<br />
execution, and exceptional<br />
customer service to ensure<br />
each event is a unique<br />
reflection of their clients'<br />
style and vision.<br />
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Best Attractions & Destinations <strong>2023</strong><br />
ART GALLERY<br />
Eclipse Artisan Boutique<br />
910-799-9883<br />
eclipseartisanboutique.com<br />
Launched in 2013 as an<br />
extension of Blue Moon Gift<br />
Shops, Eclipse is an artisan<br />
boutique showcasing one-ofa-kind<br />
pieces by local and<br />
regional artisans. From custom<br />
furniture to original paintings,<br />
pottery, jewelry, and more,<br />
Eclipse surprises visitors with<br />
its diverse collection. It has<br />
been recognized as the Best Art<br />
Gallery multiple times, winning<br />
the accolade in 2014 and for nine<br />
consecutive years since 2014.<br />
With an ever-changing array<br />
of talented artists and unique<br />
goods, Eclipse remains a beloved<br />
destination in <strong>Wilmington</strong>.<br />
BOWLING<br />
Cardinal Lanes<br />
910-686-4223<br />
cardinalbeachbowl.com<br />
Cardinal Lanes is a popular<br />
bowling alley in <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
offering a fun and entertaining<br />
experience for individuals and<br />
groups. The location offers<br />
24 lanes and a snack bar<br />
with food, drinks and beer.<br />
Information about hosting a<br />
birthday party or joining a<br />
league is readily available.<br />
GOLF<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Municipal<br />
Golf Course<br />
910-791-0558<br />
wilmingtonnc.gov<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Municipal Golf<br />
Course is a picturesque golf<br />
course, designed by Donald<br />
Ross in 1926 to provide<br />
the public with a quality,<br />
championship 18-hole golf<br />
course. Enjoy scenic fairways<br />
and challenging holes that<br />
await golfers of all skill levels.<br />
With well-manicured greens<br />
and beautiful surroundings,<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Municipal Golf<br />
Course offers a serene and<br />
enjoyable golfing experience for<br />
enthusiasts looking to tee off in<br />
a tranquil setting.<br />
HOTEL<br />
Blockade Runner<br />
866-884-5781<br />
blockade-runner.com<br />
Blockade Runner is a<br />
beachfront hotel and resort<br />
situated in Wrightsville<br />
Beach, offering luxurious<br />
accommodations and<br />
breathtaking ocean views. The<br />
hotel offers amenities, including<br />
an ocean-front pool, lawn and<br />
garden, fitness facilities, and<br />
onsite dining. They also offer<br />
onsite activities like surfing<br />
and kid’s programs that include<br />
summer day camps and movie<br />
nights. With direct access to<br />
the beach and a commitment to<br />
exceptional service, Blockade<br />
Runner provides a serene and<br />
relaxing getaway for guests<br />
seeking a beachfront escape.<br />
MALL<br />
Lumina Station<br />
910-256-0900<br />
luminastation.com<br />
Lumina Station offers a<br />
delightful shopping experience<br />
with a coastal flair. Inspired<br />
by the iconic Wrightsville<br />
Beach dance pavilion, this<br />
award-winning destination<br />
features beautifully landscaped<br />
surroundings, whimsical<br />
sculptures, and inviting<br />
rocking chairs. The curated<br />
shops, restaurants, and<br />
lifestyle services provide a<br />
range of unique offerings,<br />
from jewelry and art to home<br />
accents and clothing. With<br />
local merchants at the helm,<br />
visitors can support the<br />
community while enjoying spa<br />
treatments, dining experiences,<br />
and shopping—all conveniently<br />
located within Lumina<br />
Station's park-like setting.<br />
Seapath Marina and Yacht Club<br />
provides first class floating<br />
docks including 190 slips and<br />
600 feet of face dock.<br />
MARINA<br />
Seapath Marina and<br />
Yacht Club<br />
910-256-3747<br />
seapathyachtclub.com<br />
Seapath Yacht Club is a top<br />
destination for transient<br />
boaters in Southeastern<br />
North Carolina. Situated<br />
in Wrightsville Beach, the<br />
marina offers exceptional<br />
floating docks with 190 slips<br />
and 600 feet of face dock. Its<br />
convenient location near the<br />
intracoastal waterway and<br />
the Masonboro inlet ensures<br />
easy access. Boaters can enjoy<br />
excellent protection within<br />
a no-wake zone. Each slip is<br />
equipped with power, water,<br />
and wireless internet, providing<br />
all the necessary amenities for<br />
a comfortable stay.<br />
MUSEUM<br />
Cameron Art Museum<br />
910-395-5999<br />
cameronartmuseum.org<br />
Cameron Art Museum is a<br />
cultural hub in <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
that celebrates the visual<br />
arts through exhibitions and<br />
educational programs. The<br />
museum showcases a diverse<br />
range of artworks from local,<br />
regional, and international<br />
artists. With a mission to<br />
inspire creativity and foster<br />
appreciation for art, Cameron<br />
Art Museum provides an<br />
enriching experience for visitors<br />
of all ages.<br />
NEW NEIGHBORHOOD<br />
Riverlights<br />
910-405-1234<br />
riverlightsliving.com<br />
Riverlights offers a delightful<br />
experience for people of all ages.<br />
Whether you prefer lounging<br />
on a picnic blanket beneath the<br />
majestic live oaks, dancing to<br />
lively music at Marina Village,<br />
engaging in friendly conversations<br />
around a cozy fire, or taking<br />
a leisurely stroll with your<br />
furry friend by the lake, there's<br />
something for everyone. The<br />
vibrant heart of the community<br />
lies in Marina Village, where you<br />
can explore distinctive shops,<br />
savor delicious snacks by the river,<br />
and relish in park concerts.<br />
WEDDING RECEPTIONS<br />
Wrightsville Manor<br />
910-508-7224<br />
wrightsvillemanor.com<br />
Wrightsville Manor is an<br />
elegant indoor/outdoor wedding<br />
and event venue situated near<br />
the gateway to Wrightsville<br />
Beach, in one of <strong>Wilmington</strong>'s<br />
most charming and historic<br />
areas. Property amenities<br />
include a 3,000-square-foot<br />
main event space, large entrance<br />
lobby, an 18-foot exposed brick<br />
and stone fireplace, on-site<br />
parking, a catering prep room,<br />
an elegant furnished bridal<br />
suite, and more.<br />
66 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
ALLERGIST<br />
Allergy Partners<br />
910-537-6515<br />
allergypartners.com<br />
Allergy Partners is a network<br />
dedicated to providing<br />
exceptional care and expertise<br />
to individuals with allergies,<br />
asthma, and other allergic<br />
diseases. With a team<br />
of 140 top allergists and<br />
immunologists, they have<br />
grown from a local practice in<br />
North Carolina to the largest<br />
and most reputable allergy<br />
and asthma practice in the<br />
United States. Collaborating to<br />
address complex issues related<br />
to asthma and allergies, their<br />
shared knowledge allows them<br />
to deliver world-class medicine<br />
and cutting-edge practices to<br />
communities nationwide.<br />
CHIROPRACTOR<br />
Weckel Chiropractic<br />
910-392-3333<br />
backsandmore.com<br />
Weckel Chiropractic is a<br />
reputable chiropractic clinic<br />
that focuses on natural and<br />
holistic approaches to health and<br />
wellness. For 36 years, they’ve<br />
been serving <strong>Wilmington</strong> and<br />
Carolina Beach, providing pain<br />
relief, and educating patients<br />
about solutions for treating<br />
a range of conditions. Their<br />
skilled chiropractors offer<br />
personalized care, including<br />
spinal adjustments, therapeutic<br />
exercises, and lifestyle advice, to<br />
alleviate pain, improve mobility,<br />
and promote overall well-being.<br />
DENTIST (FAMILY)<br />
Family Dental Care<br />
of <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910-795-2602<br />
tremandental.com<br />
Treman & Treman Family<br />
Dental Care is committed to<br />
providing the highest level<br />
of care in modern cosmetic<br />
and family dentistry. Their<br />
technologically advanced facility<br />
prioritizes patient comfort,<br />
safety, and convenience. With a<br />
focus on mutual respect and a<br />
team dedicated to compassion,<br />
communication, quality,<br />
teamwork, and continuous<br />
learning, they strive to exceed<br />
patient expectations. The goal<br />
is to ensure patients have a<br />
comfortable dental experience<br />
and receive exceptional care at<br />
every step.<br />
DERMATOLOGIST<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Dermatology<br />
Center<br />
910-256-4350<br />
wilmingtondermatologycenter.com<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Dermatology<br />
Center is a premier skincare<br />
clinic offering advanced<br />
medical, cosmetic and aesthetic<br />
treatments. Their boardcertified<br />
dermatologists provide<br />
skin cancer screenings, acne<br />
treatments, Botox, dermal<br />
fillers, laser therapies, and<br />
more to help patients achieve<br />
healthy and radiant skin.<br />
EYE CARE/VISION CENTER<br />
Visionworks<br />
910-392-5522<br />
visionworks.com<br />
Visionworks is a leading provider<br />
of comprehensive eye care<br />
services and eyewear products.<br />
With a commitment to enhancing<br />
and preserving vision, they offer<br />
a wide selection of eyeglasses,<br />
sunglasses, and contact lenses for<br />
all ages and styles. Their team<br />
of experienced optometrists and<br />
opticians provide thorough eye<br />
examinations and personalized<br />
solutions to meet each individual's<br />
visual needs. With convenient<br />
locations and a focus on customer<br />
satisfaction, Visionworks aims<br />
to make eye care accessible and<br />
enjoyable for everyone.<br />
HEARING SPECIALIST<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Hearing<br />
Specialists<br />
910-319-4058<br />
hearinglife.com<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> Hearing Specialists,<br />
now a part of HearingLife,<br />
Best Health & Wellness <strong>2023</strong><br />
offers comprehensive hearing<br />
assessments and a wide range of<br />
hearing aids at their <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
NC Hearing Aid Center.<br />
With a team of highly trained<br />
professionals, they provide<br />
personalized solutions to improve<br />
hearing health and overall<br />
quality of life. As a destination<br />
for premium hearing aid<br />
technology, they offer a variety of<br />
styles and conduct fittings using<br />
modern diagnostic equipment.<br />
Dedicated to exceptional<br />
customer care, they ensure a<br />
comfortable and informative<br />
experience for their clients.<br />
HOSPITAL<br />
New Hanover<br />
Regional Medical<br />
910-667-7000<br />
novanthealth.org<br />
New Hanover Regional<br />
Medical is a leading healthcare<br />
institution serving the<br />
community. As a prominent<br />
regional medical center, they<br />
provide emergency care,<br />
specialized surgeries, maternity<br />
care, cancer treatment, cardiac<br />
care, and outpatient services,<br />
ensuring comprehensive<br />
healthcare for patients.<br />
ORTHOPEDICS<br />
Emerge Ortho<br />
910-332-3800<br />
emergeortho.com<br />
Emerge Ortho is a prominent<br />
orthopedic practice specializing<br />
in musculoskeletal care. Their<br />
team of orthopedic specialists<br />
offers comprehensive evaluation,<br />
diagnosis, and treatment for<br />
various orthopedic conditions<br />
and injuries, utilizing advanced<br />
techniques and surgical<br />
interventions to help patients<br />
recover and regain mobility.<br />
ORTHODONTICS<br />
Phillips Orthodontics<br />
910-392-5773<br />
wilmingtonbraces.com<br />
Phillips Orthodontics is a<br />
leading orthodontic practice<br />
dedicated to creating beautiful<br />
smiles. Their experienced<br />
orthodontists provide<br />
personalized treatment<br />
plans, including braces, clear<br />
aligners, and other orthodontic<br />
appliances, to correct<br />
misalignment and achieve<br />
optimal dental aesthetics. Led<br />
by Dr. Warren Phillips—a<br />
highly qualified orthodontist<br />
who graduated in the top 5% of<br />
his class after earning his BS in<br />
Dentistry, MS in Orthodontics,<br />
and Doctorate of Dental Surgery<br />
from UNC Chapel Hill—they<br />
offer award-winning orthodontic<br />
treatments to patients<br />
throughout <strong>Wilmington</strong> and<br />
surrounding areas.<br />
PEDIATRICIAN<br />
Carolina Pediatrics of<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910-763-2476<br />
carolinapedswilm.com<br />
Established in 1989 by Dr. Mary<br />
Forehand, alongside co-owners<br />
Dr. Adams and Dr. Henderson,<br />
this pediatrician is committed<br />
to providing personalized care.<br />
With a Triage Nurse available<br />
24/7, 365 days a year, they<br />
offer round-the-clock support<br />
for established patients. Their<br />
providers are on-call every night,<br />
guaranteeing optimal guidance<br />
for your child's after-hours<br />
needs. For Spanish-speaking<br />
families, they also have a<br />
bilingual Medical Assistant,<br />
Patricia Salazar, who offers<br />
interpretation services both inoffice<br />
and over the phone.<br />
Dr Mike Treman and<br />
Dr. Steven Treman provide<br />
cosmetic and family<br />
dentistry at Family Dental<br />
Care of <strong>Wilmington</strong>.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 67
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ANTIQUES<br />
Port City Peddler<br />
910-444-8881<br />
portcitypeddler.com<br />
Port City Peddler is a vibrant<br />
boutique in <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
offering a carefully curated<br />
collection of unique and stylish<br />
clothing, accessories, and gifts.<br />
With a focus on supporting<br />
local artisans, their shop<br />
showcases a diverse range of<br />
handcrafted jewelry, home<br />
decor, and other one-of-a-kind<br />
pieces that reflect the diverse<br />
charm of the area.<br />
APPLIANCE STORE<br />
Atlantic Appliance<br />
& Hardware<br />
910-791-2222<br />
atlanticappliance.net<br />
Atlantic Appliance is a trusted<br />
name in <strong>Wilmington</strong> for all<br />
your home appliance needs.<br />
They offer a wide selection of<br />
top-quality appliances from<br />
renowned brands. Whether<br />
you're in the market for a new<br />
refrigerator, dishwasher, or<br />
washer/dryer, Atlantic Appliance<br />
provides excellent customer<br />
service and competitive prices to<br />
help you find the perfect fit for<br />
your home.<br />
BIKE SHOP<br />
Two Wheeler Dealer<br />
910-799-6444<br />
bikesarefun.com<br />
Two Wheeler Dealer is a<br />
premier bicycle shop catering to<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>'s cycling enthusiasts.<br />
Their location showcases a<br />
comprehensive range of bikes<br />
and accessories, and offers<br />
professional repair services.<br />
From road bikes to mountain<br />
bikes and everything in between,<br />
Two Wheeler Dealer offers expert<br />
advice and a commitment to<br />
customer satisfaction for all your<br />
biking needs.<br />
BRIDAL BOUTIQUE<br />
Camille’s<br />
910-471-4212<br />
camilleswilmington.com<br />
Camilles is a charming<br />
boutique that exudes<br />
Southern elegance. Located<br />
in <strong>Wilmington</strong>, their website<br />
showcases a collection of<br />
contemporary women's fashion<br />
and accessories. From chic<br />
dresses and stylish tops<br />
to statement jewelry and<br />
handbags, Camilles offers a<br />
curated selection of trendy and<br />
timeless pieces that cater to<br />
fashion-forward individuals.<br />
Artéé Fabrics offers home<br />
fabrics, custom furniture,<br />
windows, bedding and<br />
much more.<br />
the shop also offers dresses,<br />
accessories, and even tuxedo<br />
rentals. An appointment,<br />
especially on weekends, is<br />
highly recommended but<br />
not required.<br />
WEDDING REGISTRY<br />
Protocol<br />
910-796-9595<br />
protocolgifts.com<br />
Protocol is a reputable business<br />
specializing in personalized<br />
and custom gifts for various<br />
occasions. They offer a<br />
wide range of high-quality<br />
products, including corporate<br />
gifts, promotional items, and<br />
personalized accessories. With<br />
a focus on exceptional customer<br />
service, Protocol Gifts ensures<br />
a seamless and enjoyable<br />
shopping experience. Their<br />
attention to detail, creative<br />
designs, and commitment to<br />
Little Locals Clothing Co<br />
in the Cotton Exchange<br />
offers uniquely curated<br />
children’s clothing and<br />
accessories.<br />
customer satisfaction make<br />
them a go-to destination for<br />
unique and memorable gifts<br />
that leave a lasting impression.<br />
Visit their website to explore<br />
their diverse selection and find<br />
the perfect gift for any occasion.<br />
CLOTHING FOR KIDS<br />
Little Locals Clothing Co.<br />
910-228-5351<br />
littlelocalsclothingco.com<br />
Little Locals Clothing Co is<br />
a small business, located in<br />
the Cargo District, dedicated<br />
to offering exceptional<br />
customer service and a curated<br />
selection of high-quality baby<br />
and children's clothing and<br />
accessories. They prioritize<br />
modern and trendy looks that<br />
align with their local coastal<br />
community's vibes. Supporting<br />
fellow small businesses,<br />
especially those owned by<br />
moms-of-toddlers, and seeking<br />
out American-made products<br />
are at the heart of their values.<br />
Little Locals Clothing Co takes<br />
pride in nurturing mutual<br />
growth between families,<br />
children, and businesses.<br />
CLOTHING FOR MEN<br />
Bloke Apparel & Supply<br />
910-679-4137<br />
blokeapparel.com<br />
Bloke is a sophisticated<br />
men's clothing store located<br />
in <strong>Wilmington</strong>. Their store<br />
and website showcases a<br />
carefully curated collection<br />
of men's fashion, including<br />
tailored suits, casual wear,<br />
and accessories. With a focus<br />
68 | 68 <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
|
Island Passage<br />
carries coastalinspired<br />
clothing<br />
and accessories<br />
for women.<br />
on quality craftsmanship and<br />
contemporary style, Bloke<br />
provides a refined shopping<br />
experience for the modern<br />
gentleman.<br />
CLOTHING FOR WOMEN<br />
Island Passage<br />
910-762-0484<br />
islandpassageclothing.com<br />
Island Passage captures the<br />
essence of coastal living with<br />
its collection of beach-inspired<br />
clothing and accessories. With<br />
several locations, each with<br />
a unique selection, you can<br />
always find just what you're<br />
looking for. Their shops and<br />
website showcases a range of<br />
relaxed and stylish fashion<br />
pieces that reflect the laidback<br />
lifestyle of the area. Find<br />
emerging specialty labels, as<br />
well as an exclusive selection<br />
of surf lifestyle brands for the<br />
whole family.<br />
CONSIGNMENT CLOTHING<br />
Clothes Mentor<br />
910-794-6888<br />
wilmingtonnc.clothesmentor.com<br />
Clothes Mentor is a popular<br />
consignment store in<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, specializing in<br />
women's fashion. Their store<br />
Nest Fine Gifts & Interiors<br />
provides interior design<br />
and decorating services as<br />
well as a unique selection<br />
of home furnishings.<br />
offers wide range of gently used<br />
designer clothing and accessories<br />
at affordable prices. Whether<br />
you're looking for a stylish<br />
handbag, a designer dress, or<br />
trendy shoes, Clothes Mentor<br />
provides a budget-friendly option<br />
to update your wardrobe. You<br />
can also bring your items into<br />
Clothes Mentor and sell them for<br />
cash on-the-spot.<br />
CONSIGNMENT FURNITURE<br />
Home Again<br />
910-679-4302<br />
homeagainwilmington.com<br />
Home Again is a furniture<br />
and home decor store in<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> that offers a wide<br />
selection of quality pieces for<br />
every style and budget. Their<br />
website showcases an array<br />
of furniture, lighting, rugs,<br />
and decorative accessories<br />
to transform any space.<br />
With an emphasis on unique<br />
and timeless designs, Home<br />
Again provides a welcoming<br />
atmosphere for all your interior<br />
design needs. Home Again also<br />
accepts items on consignment<br />
for 90 days, and consignors<br />
receive 50 percent of the<br />
selling price.<br />
DIVE SHOP<br />
Reef Runner Dive<br />
& Spearfishing<br />
910-239-9581<br />
reefrunnergear.com<br />
Reef Runner Gear specializes<br />
in high-quality outdoor apparel<br />
and gear for fishing enthusiasts.<br />
They offer a wide range of<br />
featured products designed to<br />
enhance the fishing experience,<br />
including fishing shirts, hats,<br />
and accessories. With a focus<br />
on durability, functionality,<br />
and style, Reef Runner Gear<br />
provides fishermen with the<br />
tools they need to perform<br />
at their best on the water.<br />
Whether you're a professional<br />
angler or a passionate hobbyist,<br />
Reef Runner Gear has the<br />
gear to outfit you for your next<br />
fishing adventure.<br />
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FABRIC STORE<br />
Artéé Fabrics<br />
910-686-2950<br />
arteefabricsandhome.com<br />
Artee Fabrics is a goto<br />
destination for fabric<br />
enthusiasts, showcasing a vast<br />
selection of high-quality fabrics,<br />
including upholstery, drapery,<br />
and quilting materials. With a<br />
commitment to providing a wide<br />
range of options for creative<br />
projects, Artee Fabrics offers<br />
inspiration and expertise for all<br />
your fabric needs. To make your<br />
own pieces, you can also shop<br />
from thousands of custom home<br />
fabrics you can use. Shop in<br />
the store or online and find the<br />
perfect addition to your home.<br />
FISH & TACKLE<br />
Island True Value Tackle<br />
& Hardware<br />
910-458-3049<br />
stores.truevalue.com/nc/<br />
carolina-beach<br />
Island True Value Tackle &<br />
Hardware, located in Carolina<br />
Beach, NC, is a locally owned<br />
hardware store dedicated to<br />
serving the community. As<br />
a proud member of the True<br />
Value family, we offer expert<br />
advice, a wide range of tools<br />
and equipment, and quality<br />
products to support your DIY<br />
home improvement projects.<br />
Whether you're an experienced<br />
professional or a first-time<br />
DIYer, our friendly team is<br />
here to provide the assistance<br />
you need. Visit Island True<br />
Value Tackle & Hardware<br />
today and let us help you tackle<br />
your projects with confidence.<br />
FLORIST<br />
Julia’s Florist<br />
910-395-1868<br />
juliasflorist.com<br />
Julia's Florist is a wellestablished<br />
floral boutique<br />
in <strong>Wilmington</strong>, specializing<br />
in creating stunning floral<br />
arrangements for every occasion.<br />
Their website showcases an<br />
array of beautiful bouquets,<br />
plants, and gift baskets. With<br />
a passion for floral design and<br />
attention to detail, Julia's<br />
Florist ensures that every<br />
arrangement is a work of art<br />
that will delight the recipient.<br />
FRAME SHOP<br />
D. Baxter’s<br />
910-791-8431<br />
dbaxters.com<br />
Are you in search of professional<br />
custom picture framing<br />
services? Look no further than<br />
D. Baxter's. They recognize<br />
the significance of "home" and<br />
the impact that decor has on<br />
shaping your environment. With<br />
over 25 years of experience, they<br />
have proudly assisted numerous<br />
customers in achieving the ideal<br />
framing solutions, including the<br />
meticulous selection of premium<br />
materials for showcasing and<br />
safeguarding cherished wedding<br />
portraits. Allow them to lend<br />
their expertise and assist you in<br />
creating the perfect framing for<br />
your precious memories.<br />
FURNITURE STORE<br />
Custom Home<br />
Furniture Galleries<br />
910-799-4010<br />
shopcustomhome.com<br />
Custom Home Furniture<br />
Galleries offers a wide<br />
selection of high-quality<br />
furniture for every room,<br />
including a styles, from classic<br />
to contemporary, allowing<br />
customers to find the perfect<br />
pieces to suit their individual<br />
tastes. With a commitment to<br />
exceptional craftsmanship and<br />
personalized service, Custom<br />
Home Furniture Galleries<br />
helps create beautiful and<br />
comfortable living spaces. And<br />
you can’t beat the 365-day low<br />
price guarantee. If you find<br />
the same furniture or bedding<br />
at a delivered price for less<br />
at another store in the state<br />
with the same level of services,<br />
Custom Home will refund<br />
the difference.<br />
GARDEN CENTER<br />
Blooms & Branches<br />
910-350-6772<br />
bloomsandbranchesgardencenter.com<br />
As a leading retail garden<br />
center, Blooms & Branches is<br />
a locally owned and operated<br />
establishment in the Greater<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> area. Founded<br />
by Ernie in honor of his late<br />
wife Cathy, with the support<br />
of their daughter Kary and<br />
son-in-law Wil, it remains<br />
a family-owned business.<br />
Known for our extensive<br />
selection of locally sourced<br />
plants, we take pride in<br />
offering the largest collection<br />
Port City Peddler<br />
is a vendor mall in<br />
Ogden, showcasing<br />
a diverse range of<br />
local shops.<br />
70 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
Bloke Apparel &<br />
Supply offers a<br />
curated selection<br />
of men's clothing,<br />
and a variety of<br />
accessories and<br />
gift items.
of native plants and cultivars<br />
in the region, as well as<br />
premium retail options.<br />
Visit us to experience our<br />
commitment to quality and<br />
honor Cathy's memory.<br />
GIFT STORE<br />
Crabby Chic<br />
910-799-4216<br />
Crabby Chic is a fantastic<br />
boutique offering a curated<br />
collection of elegant beach<br />
and coastal-inspired decor,<br />
as well as a diverse range of<br />
delightful gifts, furnishings,<br />
and decorative items. They<br />
showcase stunning local and<br />
regional artwork, with sea<br />
stars as a popular design<br />
element. The store features<br />
a wide selection of women's<br />
clothing, baby items, jewelry,<br />
cottage furniture, lamps,<br />
candles, pottery, soaps, shells,<br />
and numerous other charming<br />
treasures. The tasteful displays<br />
create a captivating shopping<br />
experience, and the friendly<br />
staff epitomizes the warmth<br />
and hospitality of the South.<br />
HOME ACCESSORIES<br />
Nest Fine Gifts & Interiors<br />
910-256-6378<br />
nestfinegifts.com<br />
Nest is a unique boutique in<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC, specializing<br />
in home furnishings. With<br />
over six years of experience,<br />
they provide interior design<br />
and decorating services<br />
along with an eclectic mix<br />
of furniture, accessories,<br />
and gifts for the coastal<br />
community. Nest offers a cozy<br />
and welcoming atmosphere,<br />
dedicated to impeccable<br />
customer service and fullservice<br />
interior design<br />
assistance. They also provide<br />
shipping services and are<br />
known for their exceptional<br />
gift wrapping. Visit Nest<br />
at the Forum Shopping<br />
Center in <strong>Wilmington</strong> for<br />
a memorable shopping<br />
experience.<br />
JEWELER<br />
Perry’s Emporium<br />
910-392-6721<br />
perrysemporium.com<br />
Perry's Emporium is a familyowned<br />
and operated jewelry<br />
store with locations in Charlotte<br />
and <strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC. Founded<br />
by entrepreneur Alan Perry,<br />
the store is known for its fine<br />
jewelry, engagement rings, and<br />
exceptional customer service.<br />
Starting with the first location<br />
in Charlotte, the business<br />
expanded to <strong>Wilmington</strong> in<br />
1991 and has since grown<br />
to become one of the largest<br />
jewelry stores in North<br />
Carolina. Perry's Emporium<br />
offers a wide selection of<br />
wedding jewelry, diamond<br />
earrings, jewelry repair,<br />
appraisal services, watch repair,<br />
and custom jewelry.<br />
LIGHTING STORE<br />
Capital Electric (formerly<br />
Butler’s Electric Supply)<br />
910-762-3345<br />
butlerselectricsupply.com<br />
Capital Electric is a leading<br />
electrical distributor serving<br />
contractors, builders, and endusers<br />
across multiple states<br />
in the United States. Their<br />
upgraded delivery fleet, stateof-the-art<br />
distribution network,<br />
and extensive inventory ensure<br />
prompt and reliable service.<br />
Capital Electric also provides<br />
on-site inventory management,<br />
project management, lighting<br />
design, wire management,<br />
and warehousing services.<br />
Committed to exceptional<br />
customer service, they<br />
prioritize creating a positive<br />
work environment and<br />
attracting top talent.<br />
LINGERIE<br />
Lilies & Lace<br />
910-679-4754<br />
liliesandlace.co<br />
Lilies & Lace is a charming<br />
boutique in <strong>Wilmington</strong> that<br />
offers a carefully curated<br />
collection of women's clothing,<br />
Eclipse Artisan Boutique features<br />
paintings, sculptures, furniture,<br />
jewelry & more from local &<br />
regional artisans.<br />
accessories, sleepwear and<br />
swimwear. They sell a mix of<br />
trendy and timeless fashion<br />
pieces that cater to diverse<br />
styles. From elegant dresses<br />
to casual tops and unique<br />
accessories, Lilies & Lace<br />
provides a delightful shopping<br />
experience for fashion-savvy<br />
individuals.<br />
MOTORCYCLE DEALERSHIP<br />
Carolina Coast Harley-<br />
Davidson<br />
910-791-9997<br />
carolinacoasthd.com<br />
Carolina Coast Harley-<br />
Davidson offers a wide<br />
selection of iconic motorcycles<br />
and accessories. Their website<br />
highlights the latest Harley<br />
Davidson models, as well as<br />
a range of parts and apparel<br />
for motorcycle enthusiasts.<br />
With a passion for the open<br />
road and a commitment to<br />
quality craftsmanship, Harley<br />
Davidson provides a gateway<br />
to the thrilling world of<br />
motorcycles.<br />
OUTDOOR FURNITURE<br />
Leisure World<br />
910-392-7748<br />
leisureworldcasual.com<br />
For more than three decades,<br />
this locally-owned company<br />
has been catering to the<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> area. They<br />
pride themselves on using<br />
high-quality materials and<br />
expert craftsmanship in their<br />
products, ensuring their<br />
durability in the region's<br />
challenging conditions.<br />
Collaborating with diverse<br />
vendors, they offer a wide<br />
range of furniture made from<br />
materials like aluminum,<br />
wicker, wood, and polylumber.<br />
Whether you desire<br />
an elegant, contemporary,<br />
or coastal aesthetic, their<br />
extensive selection guarantees<br />
a multitude of options to suit<br />
your preferences.<br />
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OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS<br />
Great Outdoor<br />
Provisions Co.<br />
910-343-1648<br />
greatoutdoorprovision.com<br />
With nine stores throughout<br />
North Carolina and Virginia,<br />
Great Outdoor Provision Co. is<br />
not only abound with a range of<br />
outdoors gear and equipment,<br />
but also with the expertise and<br />
desire to empower people to<br />
get outside. In the <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
shop, kayaking and SUPing<br />
are particularly popular with<br />
locals. And sure, you can find<br />
all the trusted brands like<br />
Hobie, Hurricane, NuCanoe,<br />
Badfish and Jackson Kayak in<br />
store—but, just as valuable,<br />
is the staff’s expert knowledge<br />
and interest in helping<br />
customers feel fully prepared<br />
out in the field.<br />
PET STORE<br />
Family Dog Naturals<br />
910-859-7605<br />
familydognaturals.com<br />
Family Dog Naturals, owned<br />
and operated by Betsy and<br />
David Head, is dedicated to<br />
educating pet owners about<br />
the significance of a healthy<br />
diet for their furry friends.<br />
With extensive experience in<br />
animal wellness, nutrition,<br />
and customer service, the<br />
couple strives to guide<br />
customers toward a natural<br />
and wholesome lifestyle for<br />
their four-legged companions.<br />
Their personal touch and<br />
commitment to individualized<br />
service make clients feel like<br />
part of the family. Visit Family<br />
Dog Naturals to explore their<br />
products, receive expert advice,<br />
and embark on a journey to<br />
enhance your pet's well-being.<br />
SHOE STORE<br />
Monkee’s<br />
910-256-5886<br />
monkeeswilmington.com<br />
Discover an exquisite collection<br />
of high-end women's fashion<br />
at this exclusive boutique.<br />
From renowned designers<br />
to top brands, they curate<br />
a range of shoes, clothing,<br />
and accessories that are sure<br />
to impress. Explore their<br />
extensive shoe collection<br />
featuring an array of styles,<br />
including sandals, wedges,<br />
flats, heels, sneakers, booties,<br />
and boots. Independently<br />
owned and operated, the<br />
boutique is a manifestation of<br />
owner DeeDee Shaw's dream,<br />
offering unique opportunities<br />
and fostering community<br />
excitement. Experience the<br />
luxury and elegance that define<br />
this exceptional boutique.<br />
SURF SHOP<br />
Aussie Island<br />
910-256-5454<br />
aussieisland.com<br />
For over three decades, Aussie<br />
Island Surf Shop has been<br />
a trusted destination for the<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> and Wrightsville<br />
Beach communities. With a<br />
strong focus on exceptional<br />
customer service, we go above<br />
and beyond to assist our<br />
customers. Whether you're a<br />
beginner or an experienced<br />
enthusiast, our welcoming<br />
and friendly atmosphere will<br />
make you feel like part of the<br />
family. Visit our 3000 square<br />
foot retail store in <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
conveniently located near<br />
Target, and explore our diverse<br />
range of products, including<br />
clothing, shoes, surfboards,<br />
skateboards, snowboard gear,<br />
watches, sunglasses, and snow<br />
goggles.<br />
SWIMWEAR<br />
Très Bleu<br />
910-679-4725<br />
tresbleu.com<br />
Très Bleuis a women’s boutique<br />
located in the coastal town<br />
of <strong>Wilmington</strong>. Its name is<br />
inspired by its proximity to the<br />
beach “where the Carolina blue<br />
sky fades into the deep beauty<br />
of the ocean.” The store offers a<br />
thoughtfully curated selections<br />
of apparel and accessory brands,<br />
Home Again is a fun<br />
place to shop for a<br />
bargain both new<br />
and consigned home<br />
furnishings.<br />
Crabby Chic features a<br />
variety of curated coastalinspired<br />
decor, gifts and<br />
furnishings.<br />
sourced by shop owners who<br />
travel extensively throughout<br />
the country and abroad to find<br />
the best styles. The clothes are<br />
meant to fit and feel like artful<br />
expressions of the town’s laidback<br />
coastal vibe.<br />
72 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
BARRE<br />
Pure Barre<br />
910-679-8171<br />
purebarre.com/location/<br />
wilmington-nc<br />
Pure Barre is a highly<br />
acclaimed fitness studio that<br />
has gained recognition for<br />
its innovative and resultsdriven<br />
approach to exercise.<br />
Their signature barre classes<br />
combine elements of ballet,<br />
Pilates, and strength training<br />
to create a unique and effective<br />
workout experience. With<br />
expert instructors, stateof-the-art<br />
equipment, and a<br />
supportive community, Pure<br />
Barre empowers individuals to<br />
achieve their fitness goals while<br />
improving strength, flexibility,<br />
and overall body tone.<br />
DAY SPA<br />
Rejuvenate Massage &<br />
Reflexology<br />
910-666-0377<br />
rejuvenates.life<br />
Rejuvenate Massage &<br />
Reflexology is a haven of<br />
tranquility and well-being.<br />
Their highly skilled therapists<br />
specialize in therapeutic<br />
massages and reflexology<br />
treatments, utilizing various<br />
techniques to promote deep<br />
relaxation, alleviate muscle<br />
tension, and enhance overall<br />
wellness. With a focus on<br />
holistic healing, personalized<br />
care, and a serene environment,<br />
Rejuvenate Massage &<br />
Reflexology offers a rejuvenating<br />
experience that nurtures the<br />
body, mind, and spirit.<br />
EXERCISE FACILITY<br />
Axis Fitness<br />
910-634-3023<br />
axisfitnesstraining.com<br />
Axis Fitness is an exceptional<br />
fitness facility committed to<br />
helping individuals reach<br />
their fitness goals and lead a<br />
healthy lifestyle, with locations<br />
in downtown <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
Wrightsville Beach and<br />
Hampstead. Their expansive<br />
gym features state-of-theart<br />
equipment, cutting-edge<br />
training techniques, and a<br />
variety of dynamic group classes<br />
led by experienced instructors.<br />
With a focus on personalized<br />
attention, supportive<br />
guidance, and a vibrant fitness<br />
community, Axis Fitness<br />
empowers individuals to achieve<br />
optimal physical fitness, improve<br />
strength and endurance, and<br />
enhance overall well-being.<br />
PILATES<br />
Body Aligned Pilates Studio<br />
910-279-7294<br />
Body Aligned Pilates Studio is<br />
a premier destination for those<br />
seeking a transformative and<br />
balanced approach to fitness.<br />
With a team of highly qualified<br />
instructors and a state-of-theart<br />
facility, they specialize in<br />
Pilates, an exercise method that<br />
strengthens the core, improves<br />
Dr. Church at<br />
La Belle Vie<br />
Plastic Surgery<br />
is experienced<br />
in all aspects of<br />
cosmetic and<br />
reconstructive<br />
surgery.<br />
Best Beauty & Fitness <strong>2023</strong><br />
flexibility, and enhances posture.<br />
Through tailored sessions and<br />
personalized attention, Body<br />
Aligned Pilates Studio empowers<br />
individuals to achieve optimal<br />
physical alignment, increased<br />
body awareness, and overall<br />
well-being.<br />
PLASTIC SURGEON<br />
La Belle Vie Plastic Surgery<br />
910-338-5900<br />
labellevieps.com<br />
La Belle Vie Plastic Surgery is a<br />
prestigious and reputable clinic<br />
offering exceptional cosmetic<br />
and reconstructive surgical<br />
procedures led by Dr. Church.<br />
A highly skilled cosmetic<br />
and reconstructive surgeon,<br />
Dr. Church has expertise<br />
in various areas of plastic<br />
surgery, including breast and<br />
body contouring procedures.<br />
With his patient and composed<br />
demeanor, Dr. Church excels<br />
in the operating room. Being<br />
a self-professed perfectionist,<br />
he is dedicated to achieving<br />
outstanding outcomes and<br />
creating natural-looking results<br />
that his patients can be proud of.<br />
SALON/BARBER FOR MEN<br />
Tads Barbershop<br />
910-619-6653<br />
Tads Barbershop is a familyowned<br />
barbershop where<br />
men can experience the art of<br />
grooming. With skilled and<br />
experienced barbers, they<br />
provide meticulous haircuts,<br />
precise grooming services,<br />
and tailored styling advice.<br />
Committed to creating a<br />
welcoming and relaxing<br />
environment, Tads Barbershop<br />
offers exceptional services,<br />
attention to detail, and a sense<br />
of camaraderie that keeps<br />
clients coming back for their<br />
grooming needs.<br />
SALON FOR WOMEN<br />
PURE by Gloss<br />
910-769-6731<br />
purebyglosssalon.com<br />
PURE by Gloss is a luxurious<br />
and indulgent beauty salon<br />
that provides a comprehensive<br />
range of top-quality hair and<br />
brow treatments. Services<br />
include hair cuts, hair coloring,<br />
consultations for coloring,<br />
keratin smoothing treatments,<br />
blowouts, hair styling, brow<br />
tinting, and extension. Their<br />
team of skilled professionals<br />
creates a serene and pampering<br />
atmosphere for clients to unwind<br />
and enhance their natural<br />
beauty. The salon takes pride in<br />
recycling programs, ensuring<br />
that hair, foils, color tubes,<br />
plastics and chemicals used in<br />
salon are kept out of landfills<br />
and water systems. PURE is<br />
also dedicated to using crutelyfree<br />
products and takes part in<br />
TreeEra, a program that plants<br />
a tree for every color service.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 73
Best Dining <strong>2023</strong><br />
APPETIZERS<br />
RUMCOW.<br />
910-769-4659<br />
rumcow.business.site<br />
Innovative cocktails meet<br />
adventurous bar snacks<br />
at Rumcow, and given the<br />
unanimously enthusiastic<br />
consensus over the small<br />
bites—it’s no surprise<br />
restaurant reigns supreme for<br />
their apps. Modern and rustic,<br />
Rumcow offers a fusion of frothy<br />
drinks and southern-tinged<br />
global cuisine. Bask in crispy<br />
pork belly pockets with peach<br />
chutney and fig goat cheese or<br />
blackened shrimp and fried<br />
grit cake tacos with pork belly<br />
lardons. On the lighter end, the<br />
lemony kale chips with garlic,<br />
parmesan, and sweet Thai chili<br />
sauce are addictively delicious.<br />
Famous Toastery is a<br />
dependable breakfast cafe,<br />
offering fresh ingredients<br />
and a large menu.<br />
AUTHENTIC AMERICAN<br />
Henry’s<br />
910-793-2929<br />
henrysrestaurant.com<br />
By embracing practices such<br />
as sourcing directly from local<br />
suppliers, Henry’s surpasses<br />
the typical American<br />
restaurant experience. While<br />
you'll find familiar childhood<br />
classics, like slow-roasted pot<br />
roast and gravy-smothered<br />
meatloaf atop garlic mashed<br />
potatoes, Henry's elevates<br />
each dish through creativity<br />
and a commitment to crateto-plate<br />
dining. Whether<br />
it's buttermilk-fried jumbo<br />
shrimp harvested from nearby<br />
waters or produce that was<br />
just picked, there's no doubt<br />
that this kitchen prioritizes<br />
freshness above all else.<br />
Wheelz Pizza, originally<br />
headquartered on 17th<br />
Street, also has a fleet of<br />
food trucks.<br />
Innovative cocktails<br />
meet adventurous bar<br />
snacks at Rumcow.<br />
AUTHENTIC ASIAN<br />
Cafe Chinois<br />
910-769-3193<br />
cafe-chinois.com<br />
One of the latest endeavors<br />
of Solange Thompson, Café<br />
Chinois has followed in big<br />
sister Indochine’s footsteps<br />
while carving its own unique<br />
identity: a sophisticated eatery<br />
combining French-inspired<br />
Asian fare with enticing<br />
cocktails. The exuberant setting<br />
showcases vintage Japanese<br />
dolls and family heirlooms.<br />
You’ll spot the generouslyportioned<br />
Pad Thai on almost<br />
every table, but we suggest a<br />
signature dish like the hearty<br />
Vietnamese bouillabaisse with<br />
fresh seafood and crusty bread.<br />
AUTHENTIC CARIBBEAN<br />
Ceviche’s<br />
910-256-3131<br />
wbceviche.com<br />
At Ceviche's, authenticity and<br />
artistry take center stage as<br />
the kitchen consistently dishes<br />
out pristine Panamanian<br />
cuisine. Case and point: the<br />
Ropa Vieja—a luscious, slowcooked<br />
mélange of flank steak<br />
and veggies braised in a rich<br />
tomatoey broth. On the seafood<br />
side, you clearly can’t go wrong,<br />
but top choices include the<br />
ginger-coconut milk lobster<br />
ceviche and corvina—mild,<br />
white Pacific sea bass with loads<br />
of lime juice and jalapenos.<br />
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN<br />
Tarantelli’s<br />
910-763-3806<br />
tarantellis.com<br />
Although we tend to harp on<br />
Tarantelli’s whiskey-ignited<br />
Spaghetti al Formaggio<br />
Parmigiana, this family-owned<br />
restaurant has a multitude<br />
of marvels in store. From the<br />
moment the elegant trattoria<br />
opened its doors on Second<br />
Street, it became a go-to for<br />
Italian cravings. Handmade<br />
pastas—like wide pappardelle<br />
noodles tangled with porcini,<br />
shiitake, and cremini<br />
mushrooms in a velvety herb<br />
cream sauce—evoke nostalgic<br />
Tuscan flavors, while stellar<br />
drink and dessert specials keep<br />
things interesting.<br />
AUTHENTIC MEXICAN<br />
Tequila Comida & Cantina<br />
910-399-1643<br />
tequilacc.com<br />
Owned by brothers Ramon<br />
and Miguel Villaseñor, this<br />
Monkey Junction eatery<br />
features bona fide Mexican<br />
fare that’s as real as it comes.<br />
These are the minds behind<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>’s esteemed Los<br />
Portales, after all, so a menu<br />
filled with fabulous twists<br />
on familiar favorites was all<br />
but guaranteed. Expect hot,<br />
flavorful fajitas, bright ceviche,<br />
robust moles, flawlessly-made<br />
tortillas, and so much more.<br />
Partake in a pretty kiwi<br />
margarita to wash it all down<br />
and don’t forget extra queso.<br />
BAKERY<br />
Apple Annie’s Bakeshop<br />
910-799-9023, 910-256-6585<br />
appleanniesbakeshop.com<br />
Treasured for manifesting<br />
the most magnificent baked<br />
goods in town for over three<br />
decades, Apple Annie’s is<br />
fluent in everything from<br />
sinful red velvet cake to pizza<br />
dough to heavenly chocolate<br />
croissants. Lovingly gaze into<br />
the dessert case for a tempting<br />
array of coconut macaroons,<br />
swirl-topped cheesecakes,<br />
and chocolate-dipped cookies.<br />
Whether you're in need of<br />
a gorgeous golden loaf of<br />
74 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
ead (try the slightly sweet<br />
pumpernickel) or a luscious<br />
blueberry cobbler to bring to a<br />
potluck, this bakery is a onestop<br />
shop.<br />
BARBEQUE<br />
Mac’s Speed Shop<br />
910-947-6100<br />
macspeedshop.com<br />
For almost twenty years, Mac's<br />
Apple Annies bake<br />
shop has been a<br />
staple since 1987.<br />
Tarantelli’s is a family-owned<br />
restaurant with a multitude<br />
of marvels in store.<br />
has been serving award-winning<br />
barbeque alongside a love for<br />
beer and bikes. Their dedication<br />
to stellar smoky treats is evident<br />
in the expertly cooked ‘cue—as<br />
well as the homemade sauces,<br />
dressings, and sides. Mac’s<br />
spacious design and live music<br />
make it an optimal setting for<br />
large crowds clamoring over allthing<br />
meaty. Spoil yourself with<br />
polished comfort food such as<br />
brisket burnt ends, dry-rubbed<br />
wings, and pork tacos with<br />
mustard sauce.<br />
BREAKFAST SPOT<br />
Famous Toastery<br />
910-256-7030<br />
famoustoastery.com<br />
A dependable breakfast café<br />
where the exemplary service<br />
matches the skillful preparation<br />
of each dish is a rarity, but the<br />
Carolina-bred Famous Toastery<br />
franchise runs like a well-oiled<br />
machine. With fresh ingredients<br />
and generous portions, the<br />
massive menu is chockful of<br />
essential eats, including stuffed<br />
French toast, benedicts galore,<br />
and bold items like Huevos<br />
Rancheros with feta cheese and<br />
black bean salsa.<br />
BURGERS<br />
P.T.'s Olde Fashioned Grille<br />
ptsgrille.com<br />
In the realm of burgers, P.T.’s<br />
is king. With a two-decade<br />
legacy of serving up charbroiled<br />
classics and crisp, tangy<br />
lemonade—P.T.'s has rightfully<br />
earned the title of <strong>Wilmington</strong>'s<br />
premier burger joint once<br />
again. Its widespread locations<br />
across the region, coupled with<br />
overflowing baskets of hand-cut<br />
seasoned fries accompanying<br />
each made-to-order burger,<br />
make it an ever-convenient and<br />
affordable choice.<br />
CANDY / CHOCOLATE<br />
Carolina Candy Company<br />
866-794-9905<br />
carolinacandy.com<br />
If the soft buttery crunch of<br />
toffee brings you joy, run—<br />
don’t walk—to Carolina Candy<br />
Company. This family-owned<br />
sweet shop captivates its clients<br />
with handmade confectionaries<br />
like chocolate bark, gourmet<br />
candy, and small-batch toffee.<br />
CCC prides itself on using the<br />
highest quality ingredients and<br />
never compromising on taste by<br />
avoiding fillers, preservatives,<br />
and high-fructose corn syrup.<br />
The decadent morsels come in<br />
a gift box or basket form—you<br />
know, if you’re willing to share<br />
your dark chocolate Southern<br />
pecan toffee.<br />
CATERER<br />
Middle of the Island<br />
910-392-3593<br />
middleoftheisland.com<br />
You can't miss the festive<br />
purple and yellow truck, and<br />
chances are you've swooned<br />
for Middle of the Island’s<br />
legendary baked mac and<br />
cheese at a wedding. MOI is<br />
not just the biggest catering<br />
company in town, they're the<br />
go-to experts for over twohundred<br />
weddings each year.<br />
Their mobile kitchens cook up<br />
massive seafood and southern<br />
buffets right on-site while the<br />
drop-off services are ideal<br />
Cape Fear<br />
Seafood is a<br />
regional American<br />
restaurant known<br />
for skillfully<br />
prepared seafood<br />
across the state.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 75
Best Dining <strong>2023</strong><br />
Tequila Comida, owned by<br />
brothers Ramon and Miguel<br />
Villaseñor, features bona fide<br />
authentic Mexican fare.<br />
for church dinners, company<br />
picnics, corporate functions, and<br />
fundraisers.<br />
COFFEEHOUSE<br />
Cheeky Monkey Coffee<br />
910- 399-3621<br />
cheekymonkeycoffee.com<br />
Nestled at the front of City<br />
Market Shops, dog-friendly<br />
Cheeky Monkey is clutch for<br />
getting your caffeine fix before<br />
exploring downtown. The<br />
Blackham family cherishes<br />
their customers and it shows<br />
in the rustic, homey vibe and<br />
small batch-roasted beans. With<br />
an allegiance to sustainability,<br />
this Ocean-Friendly<br />
Establishment provides<br />
alternative milks, prioritizes<br />
recyclable cups, and actively<br />
works towards reducing plastic<br />
straw usage by employing siplids.<br />
The cinnamon-infused<br />
Bananas Foster latte and rich,<br />
16-hour-steeped cold brew are<br />
real crowd-pleasers.<br />
CRAB CAKES<br />
Cape Fear Seafood Company<br />
capefearseafoodcompany.com<br />
This regional American<br />
restaurant is renowned for its<br />
lively feel, multiple locations<br />
across the state, and irresistible<br />
selection of skillfully prepared<br />
seafood. At CFSC, the oceanheavy<br />
cuisine is composed with<br />
attention to detail, quality<br />
ingredients, and exciting<br />
flavors, but the undeniable<br />
stars of the show are the Bald<br />
Head Island Crab Cakes. The<br />
generous patties are packed<br />
with backfin lump claw meat<br />
and covered in a lemony white<br />
wine and butter sauce.<br />
DESSERTS<br />
The Peppered Cupcake<br />
919-399-1088<br />
thepepperedcupcake.com<br />
With two <strong>Wilmington</strong> locations,<br />
The Peppered Cupcake<br />
has gained a well-deserved<br />
reputation for its extraordinary<br />
take on classic flavors. Owner<br />
and baker Tabitha Meready<br />
regularly stuns with her<br />
everyday offerings like crème<br />
brulee and caramel macchiato,<br />
but rotating choices like earthy<br />
taro or sharp key lime pie are<br />
worth waiting for. If you’ve got a<br />
cupcake itch that just won’t quit,<br />
swing by the vending machine<br />
at the downtown shop which<br />
dispenses treats 7 days a week.<br />
FAMILY RESTAURANT + SALADS<br />
RuckerJohns<br />
910-452-1212<br />
ruckerjohns.com<br />
The flaky croissants and honey<br />
butter have their own cult<br />
following, but that’s just the<br />
beginning of this story. From<br />
American classics like fried<br />
calamari and potato skins to<br />
gourmet goodies like Cajundusted<br />
tuna with beurre<br />
blanc—RuckerJohns’ diverse<br />
menu caters to all kinds of<br />
crowds. The neighborhood-style<br />
chain in coastal North Carolina<br />
aims to accommodate not only<br />
families but individuals of all<br />
ages. With a dedicated staff<br />
and an emphasis on superior<br />
ingredients, RuckerJohns always<br />
delivers. But it’s not all comfort<br />
food. The restaurant also<br />
snagged the win for their topnotch<br />
salads and scratch made<br />
dressings. The herbaceous Greek<br />
vinaigrette is light on the palate,<br />
but the buttermilk ranch is hard<br />
to beat.<br />
FINE DINING<br />
Circa 1922<br />
910-762-1922<br />
circa1922.com<br />
Housed in a lavishly renovated<br />
bank in the heart of downtown,<br />
Circa is a trendy mainstay loved<br />
by both locals and tourists. The<br />
talented team both in front and<br />
behind the kitchen curtain—<br />
Cozy up in a booth with<br />
skewered baguette cubes<br />
and melted cheese prepared<br />
tableside at The Little Dipper.<br />
76 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
not to mention tasty tapas—<br />
contribute to its esteemed<br />
reputation. Circa's prix fixe and<br />
specialty items never disappoint<br />
when you’re after a luxurious<br />
dining experience. Premium<br />
entrées like aromatic seafood<br />
paella are filling while small<br />
plates such as charred octopus<br />
and beef carpaccio with truffle<br />
aioli are great for the table.<br />
HAPPY HOUR<br />
Front Street Brewery<br />
910-251-1935<br />
frontstreetbrewery.com<br />
You already know Front Street<br />
Brewery for its fantastic lineup<br />
of craft beer, but if you’re<br />
unfamiliar with their famous<br />
happy hour menu—you’re in<br />
When it comes to exceptional<br />
steakhouses, Ruth's Chris is<br />
an undisputed chart-topper.<br />
for a treat. From 4 to 6 PM<br />
and after 10 PM, FSB becomes<br />
home to half-priced appetizers.<br />
Prepare yourself for a series<br />
of savory options like handbreaded<br />
buffalo fried shrimp<br />
with gorgonzola, low country<br />
grit cakes with Cajun bacon<br />
sauce, and the timeless pulled<br />
chicken nachos featuring slowcooked,<br />
slightly sweet shredded<br />
meat and homemade salsa.<br />
HEALTH FARE<br />
Kale Me Crazy<br />
910-679-8188<br />
kalemecrazy.net/wilmington<br />
Kale Me Crazy was born<br />
out of a personal journey by<br />
Founder and CEO, Roi Shlomo,<br />
who wanted to transform his<br />
diet with all-organic food to<br />
better support his own health.<br />
Mission accomplished, and he’s<br />
passed on the love. Using fresh,<br />
organic, and raw ingredients,<br />
KMC gives everyone access to<br />
real food and successfully meets<br />
the growing demand for quick<br />
nutritious options. Wash down<br />
salmon toast with a cold-pressed<br />
juice or lion’s mane and reishi<br />
mushroom latte with raw cacao,<br />
maple syrup, and almond milk.<br />
ICE CREAM<br />
Boombalatti's<br />
boombalattis.com<br />
Wes and Kristen Bechtel,<br />
the creative couple behind<br />
Boombalatti’s have been<br />
crowned once again for their<br />
exceptional homemade ice cream<br />
made exclusively with dairy<br />
from grass-fed North Carolina<br />
cows. At their dreamy scoop<br />
shop, artificial flavors and<br />
colors are strictly avoided and<br />
combinations like cinnamon<br />
oatmeal cookie take are the<br />
norm. The coconut milk-based<br />
varieties at Boombalatti's elicit<br />
pure delight and the abundance<br />
of vegan selections always leaves<br />
an impression on first-timers.<br />
LUNCH SPOT<br />
Rebellion<br />
910-399-1162<br />
rebellionnc.com<br />
Whether you’re after an artfully<br />
composed wedge salad with<br />
seared tuna or a hearty, showy<br />
handheld like the Phancy<br />
Filly with shaved ribeye and<br />
crumbled pork rinds, it’s easy to<br />
count the reasons Rebellion is<br />
a downtown hot spot for lunch.<br />
The consistently prompt service<br />
even during a midday rush<br />
doesn’t hurt either. I’ve always<br />
been a loud advocate for the<br />
mouthwatering mac-and-cheese<br />
draped in Gruyère Mornay, but<br />
other lunch staples include the<br />
smoke-perfumed wings and<br />
REB-L-T with crispy pork belly<br />
confit on sourdough.<br />
Marina Grill has captured<br />
the hearts of many, with its<br />
brunch, lunch and dinnerwith-a-view<br />
experience.<br />
NEW RESTAURANT<br />
Kipos Hellenic Cuisine<br />
910-492-2893<br />
kiposwilmington.com<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> isn’t overflowing<br />
with Noteworthy Grecian fare,<br />
so the hype Kipos received when<br />
it recently landed in Lumina<br />
Station was expected. This<br />
intricately adorned, seafoodfocused<br />
establishment pays<br />
homage to the culinary traditions<br />
and cultural heritage of Greece.<br />
Get in lost in their breezy<br />
interpretation of a Mediterranean<br />
courtyard while chowing down<br />
on classic mezedes like charred<br />
prawns or calamari. The<br />
moussaka is a no-brainer, but<br />
get the grilled whole fish fileted<br />
tableside for the full experience.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 77
Best Dining <strong>2023</strong><br />
ORGANIC FOOD<br />
Tidal Creek<br />
910-799-2667<br />
tidalcreek.coop<br />
Since its inception, Tidal Creek<br />
has been driven by a mission<br />
to promote the well-being of<br />
individuals, communities, and<br />
the environment. Established<br />
in 1982 as a consumer-owned<br />
cooperative natural food store,<br />
TD has been tirelessly dedicated<br />
to sourcing sustainable, organic,<br />
Bluewater, a waterfront<br />
venue at Wrightsville<br />
Beach, has been serving<br />
up exquisite seafood,<br />
juicy steaks and more for<br />
over 20 years.<br />
and fair trade foods, as well<br />
as environmentally-friendly<br />
products. Visit the in-store<br />
café for an excellent smoothie,<br />
the hot bar for nourishing<br />
provisions, or grab a wrap from<br />
the cold case if you’re in a hurry.<br />
OUTDOOR DINING<br />
Marina Grill<br />
910-769-7974<br />
marinagrillwilmington.com<br />
Anchor your boat at this<br />
idyllic riverfront haven and<br />
treat yourself to a refreshing<br />
pineapple, coconut, and<br />
rum-spiked cocktail and a<br />
breathtaking sunset. Since its<br />
arrival on the downtown scene,<br />
Marina Grill has captured<br />
the hearts of many, with its<br />
brunch, lunch, and dinnerwith-a-view<br />
experience. MG<br />
provides music of its own<br />
but sits adjacent to Live Oak<br />
Pavillion where your ears<br />
can often catch the sounds of<br />
a major concert for free. The<br />
patio’s panoramic river views<br />
and nautical aura will likely<br />
urge you to indulge in the<br />
fresh-as-ever fish tacos.<br />
PIZZA<br />
Wheelz Pizza<br />
wheelzpizza.com<br />
Two words: sourdough crust.<br />
Wheelz, with its fleet of food<br />
trucks, original headquarters<br />
on 17th Street, and dinein<br />
locations now spanning<br />
from Wrightsville Beach to<br />
Charlotte has irrefutably<br />
become one of <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s<br />
pizza champions. The<br />
eminently worshipped threeday,<br />
cold-fermented sourdough<br />
crust is a Neapolitan-Brooklyn<br />
style hybrid and well worth<br />
the hype. It’s foldy, chewy,<br />
and crisp all at once—which<br />
produces a brilliant landing<br />
pad for fresh toppings like<br />
chunky, sweet organic<br />
tomatoes, ultra-premium<br />
“cuppy pepperoni,” and freshly<br />
snipped basil.<br />
RAW BAR<br />
Elijah’s<br />
910-343-1448<br />
elijahs.com<br />
Luxuriate in the sights and<br />
sounds on Elijah's waterfront<br />
deck and discover why this<br />
longstanding culinary gem<br />
relishes in having one of the<br />
best raw bars in the city. With<br />
over thirty years of history,<br />
this river-view restaurant<br />
has garnered a reputation for<br />
excellence and it’s not just the<br />
epic view. Though the chilled<br />
oysters and clams are hard to<br />
pass up, we recommend opting<br />
for the Carolina bucket—a<br />
low country boil-style feast<br />
complete with shrimp, crab<br />
legs, mussels, potatoes, and<br />
sausage you can enjoy right at<br />
your table.<br />
ROMANTIC ATMOSPHERE<br />
The Little Dipper<br />
910-251-0433<br />
littledipperfondue.com<br />
Make your date night dinners<br />
truly memorable with an<br />
interactive and fun-filled<br />
experience at The Little<br />
Dipper. Cozy up in a booth<br />
with skewered baguette cubes<br />
and melted cheese prepared<br />
tableside for a meal that<br />
screams romance. Sample the<br />
delectable artisanal breads for<br />
dipping or opt for the assorted<br />
three-course meal featuring<br />
fresh seafood, juicy steaks,<br />
and a fruity finale of dark<br />
chocolate fondue. Enjoy the<br />
nostalgic charm of wine and<br />
cheese or check out the roster<br />
of "fauxtails" if your dining<br />
companion digs alcohol-free<br />
drinks.<br />
SEAFOOD<br />
The SeaWitch Café<br />
& Tiki Bar<br />
910-707-0533<br />
seawitchtikibar.com<br />
Located a block from the<br />
oceanfront, this CB landmark<br />
has been steadily serving<br />
up exceptional seafood and<br />
entertainment since 1995. Beat<br />
the heat in the dining room<br />
decked out with beachy décor or<br />
hit the palm tree-lined tiki bar<br />
on the dock for ahi tuna nachos<br />
and a coconut margarita. The<br />
baked crab dip, laced with an<br />
ethereal Old Bay cream sauce,<br />
is great for sharing while the<br />
jerk mahi with mango salsa and<br />
cilantro lime shrimp tacos will<br />
take you to your own private<br />
paradise.<br />
78 <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
78 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
SEAFOOD MARKET<br />
Seaview Crab Company<br />
seaviewcrabcompany.com<br />
With its widespread presence<br />
across the state, Seaview Crab<br />
Company has established itself as<br />
a true leader in the retail game.<br />
The owners' humble beginnings<br />
as retail fishmongers have<br />
instilled a knack for engaging<br />
with customers and staying<br />
ahead in the industry, both<br />
locally and globally. Nationwide<br />
shipping is available for retail<br />
products and fresh seafood, and<br />
for special ordering needs—just<br />
ask. The market’s take-home<br />
stock is top-notch, while SCC<br />
Kitchen’s MO also boasts hot,<br />
made-to-order food. Delectable<br />
creations from Executive Chef<br />
Brandon Stark include tacos, po'<br />
boys with pickled peppers, and<br />
seafood platters.<br />
SERVICE<br />
The George on the<br />
Riverwalk<br />
910-763-2052<br />
thegeorgerestaurant.com<br />
You’ll appreciate al fresco river<br />
views and southern cuisine<br />
at The George, but it’s the<br />
friendly and attentive staff<br />
that have been instrumental in<br />
establishing this restaurant as<br />
a longtime local favorite. Take<br />
your taste buds on a coastal<br />
journey with the Cajun-fried<br />
gator bites served with roasted<br />
artichoke and zippy romesco<br />
sauce. The knowledgeable<br />
servers will never steer you<br />
wrong and pull out all the stops<br />
to make sure your meal is as<br />
special as possible.<br />
STEAKHOUSE<br />
Ruth's Chris Steak House<br />
910-343-1818<br />
ruthschris.com<br />
When it comes to exceptional<br />
steakhouses, Ruth's Chris is an<br />
undisputed chart-topper. Famed<br />
for their impeccable service and<br />
generous portions of buttery,<br />
top-quality beef, this upscale<br />
chain guarantees a gratifying<br />
dining experience every time.<br />
Located conveniently within<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>'s downtown Hilton<br />
on the Riverwalk, the locale<br />
only adds to the attraction.<br />
While Ruth's Chris is celebrated<br />
for their champion USDA Prime<br />
Beef, their menu offers more<br />
than just steaks for any nonmeat-eaters<br />
in your party.<br />
SUNDAY BRUNCH<br />
Havana's Restaurant<br />
910-458-2822<br />
havanasrestaurant.com<br />
For Carolina Beach’s<br />
quintessential brunch<br />
experience, Havana's takes<br />
the cake once again. Their<br />
weekly Sunday Funday shindig<br />
features live music and the<br />
signature "Snow's Cut Bloody<br />
Mary" with an Old Bay rim and<br />
a garnish of steamed shrimp.<br />
Determined to source as many<br />
ingredients as possible from<br />
the nearby sea and land, every<br />
plate at Havana's is as fresh<br />
as it gets. Regulars rave about<br />
the Huevos Rancheros topped<br />
with crunchy pico and served<br />
on crispy corn tortillas with<br />
Havana’s quintessential<br />
brunch experience includes<br />
a weekly “Sunday Funday”<br />
shindig with live music and<br />
signatures dishes/drinks.<br />
red bean gravy. Seafood lovers<br />
rejoice for the oyster catcher<br />
benedict with poached eggs<br />
and Tasso ham hollandaise. To<br />
satisfy your sweet tooth, the<br />
accompanying coffee cake is<br />
sublime.<br />
VEGETARIAN<br />
The Green House<br />
910-679-4994<br />
thegreenrestaurant.com<br />
As <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s first upscale<br />
vegetarian bistro (that,<br />
BTW, flaunts a zero-proof<br />
bar program), The Green<br />
House focuses on wholesome<br />
ingredients with an emphasis<br />
on sustainable practices.<br />
Modern, high-end, vegan<br />
American eats are the stars<br />
of this show—like the seared<br />
eggplant filet with velvety<br />
parsnip potato puree, red wine<br />
demi-glace, and crispy roasted<br />
shallots. Pair the runny,<br />
housemade Camembert with<br />
one of the bar’s inventive sips<br />
like the foam-topped Matcha<br />
Man made up of a citrusy<br />
aperitif, herby NA spirit, and<br />
locally-made fig-cardamom<br />
shrub.<br />
WATERVIEW DINING<br />
Bluewater Grill<br />
910-256-8500<br />
bluewaterdining.com<br />
For over twenty years,<br />
this waterfront venue at<br />
Wrightsville Beach has been<br />
serving up exquisite seafood,<br />
juicy steaks, and more. While<br />
you wait for your table, enjoy<br />
an islandy cocktail at the<br />
outdoor bar while watching<br />
sailboats glide along the<br />
waterway. On Sundays from<br />
April to October, relax on<br />
the patio and listen to live<br />
tunes as part of Bluewater's<br />
waterfront music series. Musttries<br />
for newcomers include the<br />
sumptuous hot crab dip and<br />
wispy coconut shrimp with<br />
dark rum marmalade. Plan<br />
your meal around high tide to<br />
catch a dolphin sighting or two.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 79
Best Nightlife <strong>2023</strong><br />
BAR<br />
The Ivey in the Alley<br />
iveyilm.com<br />
The wallet-friendly craft<br />
cocktails may have been<br />
the initial draw to this<br />
alley-situated spot that’s a<br />
bottle cap’s throw from Blue<br />
Post, but the Ivey’s funky<br />
aesthetic has been equally<br />
commended. The beauty is in<br />
the details—a cross between<br />
contemporary and steampunk<br />
thanks to a mix of Edison<br />
bulbs and bikes swinging<br />
from the ceiling. Tropical<br />
sips like the Aly Cat with<br />
rum, Aperol, and pineapple<br />
are perfect for vacationers—<br />
but the demographic is a<br />
jumble of college kids, young<br />
professionals, and (thanks<br />
to a marvelously intentional<br />
mocktail list) even the sobercurious<br />
crowd.<br />
CLUB<br />
Reggie’s 42nd Street Tavern<br />
910-799-6465<br />
facebook.com/reggiesnc<br />
Beer, booze, and live bands<br />
are the winning trifecta at<br />
this beloved hole-in-the-wall.<br />
Reggie’s is a community-centric<br />
hangout whose blend of dive<br />
bar vibes and entertainment<br />
venue appeal has kept its<br />
electric spirit alive and well<br />
for years. The staff and<br />
regulars may have a laidback<br />
vibe, but they’re serious about<br />
supporting local, independent<br />
music. Reggie’s clean, fun<br />
atmosphere is a fusion of<br />
arcade games, pool tables, and<br />
karaoke—but it’s catching your<br />
favorite bands up close and<br />
personal that’s the real bait.<br />
COCKTAIL<br />
Blind Elephant<br />
910-833-7175<br />
blindelephantspeakeasy.com<br />
Follow the mysterious<br />
elephant sign just off Front<br />
Street to step into a world of<br />
80 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
burlesque charm. You’ll savor<br />
simply righteous handcrafted<br />
cocktails at the speakeasythemed<br />
Blind Elephant where<br />
blue backlighting, grand<br />
brick walls, and bartenders in<br />
prohibition-era attire add to<br />
the allure. While the drinks<br />
may take a little extra time to<br />
curate due to their complexity,<br />
the service is consistently<br />
prompt. Peep the monthly<br />
cocktails, but don’t overlook<br />
the perpetually popular on-tap<br />
mules, masterfully mixed with<br />
house made ginger beer.<br />
CRAFT BREWER<br />
Flytrap Brewing<br />
910-769-2881<br />
flytrapbrewing.com<br />
Flytrap goes above and beyond<br />
your typical neighborhood<br />
brewery, standing out as one<br />
of the Brooklyn Arts District’s<br />
warmest and most communitydriven<br />
destinations. Select a<br />
flight and start in the taproom<br />
to buzz around the latest local<br />
art exhibit then hit the lively<br />
beer garden—which welcomes<br />
both families and four-legged<br />
companions—for live music<br />
and food trucks. Owner Mike<br />
Barlas takes immense pride in<br />
crafting beautifully balanced<br />
American and Belgian ales,<br />
but there’s plenty to appreciate<br />
on the seasonal and special<br />
release menus.<br />
Yosake offers elaborate<br />
sushi creations from<br />
10pm to midnight on<br />
Fridays and Saturdays.<br />
LATE NIGHT MENU + SUSHI<br />
Yosake<br />
910-763-3172<br />
yosake.com<br />
One of downtown’s most<br />
revered Pan-Asian eateries<br />
snagged a dual victory on our<br />
list this year for both their<br />
elaborate sushi creations and<br />
the (exclusively dine-in) late<br />
night "happy hour.” Craving<br />
crab rangoons late-night?<br />
From 10pm to midnight on<br />
Fridays and Saturdays, Yosake<br />
has got you covered. Come<br />
for the island-inspired Maui<br />
Wowie at dinner—yellowtail<br />
and pineapple wrapped in<br />
avocado and topped with ahi<br />
tuna poke—then pop back in<br />
after a night of bar-hopping for<br />
stupid-fresh sashimi under<br />
10 bucks.<br />
PUB TAVERN<br />
Tavern 14<br />
910-769-2225<br />
tavern14.business.site<br />
It's impossible not to adore<br />
a bar whose welcome cry is<br />
an enthusiastic "Hell yeah!"<br />
instead of a dull "Hello."<br />
At this lively sports pub<br />
on Market Street, you'll be<br />
impressed by the abundance<br />
of nearly twenty flat-screen<br />
TVs, a plethora of pool tables,<br />
and generous portions. Satisfy<br />
your Sunday desire for a<br />
Bloody Mary and a variety of<br />
delectable fried delights on the<br />
expansive wrap-around porch.<br />
Tavern 14 produces all the<br />
usual suspects like wings and<br />
burgers, but nothing screams<br />
Saturday night like the<br />
signature “zillas”—which they<br />
define as tipsy quesadillas who<br />
got frisky with pizza.<br />
SPECIALTY DRINKS<br />
The Underfront Co.<br />
910-660-4994<br />
theunderfrontcompany.com<br />
Boutique cocktails are the<br />
name of the game at this<br />
downtown lounge that takes<br />
mixology to another level. Sip<br />
a blend of St. Germain and<br />
pineapple with flamed absinthe<br />
mist in the grand, yet intimate<br />
atmosphere marked by<br />
century-old beams and rafters.<br />
The menu is thoughtfully<br />
broken up into flavor profiles<br />
(from fresh and fruity to bold<br />
and smoky) and even the nonalcoholic<br />
choices are an artful<br />
meld of gastriques, delicate<br />
foams and creams, raw sugar<br />
syrups, house-made bitters,<br />
and tinctures.<br />
WINE LIST<br />
Second Glass<br />
910-399-7486<br />
secondglasswinebar.com<br />
South Front District's urban<br />
eatery, Second Glass, is not<br />
only a sophisticated mecca<br />
of southern flavors, but also<br />
a wine bar that truly wows.<br />
Owner Celeste Glass’s ability<br />
to ornately shape a space,<br />
select a wide-ranging and<br />
extensive collection of wines,<br />
and employ an extraordinary<br />
staff is unmatched. If you’re<br />
easily overwhelmed, share<br />
your palate preferences with<br />
your server and let them lead<br />
you toward something new.<br />
Small and large plates are also<br />
always listed with a suggested<br />
pairing. Save room for the<br />
vegan chocolate brownie.<br />
WINE STORE<br />
The Wine Sampler<br />
910-796-9463<br />
thewinesampler.com<br />
Kerr Avenue strip mall’s<br />
unassuming Wine Sampler<br />
takes wine tasting to new<br />
heights. Sip and shop in-store<br />
while you explore a world<br />
of 700+ wines that range in<br />
all price points. Mull over<br />
the impressive international<br />
wines as you decide which<br />
varietal to sample from one<br />
of the 28 selections “on tap”<br />
in the WineStation ® . Whether<br />
you’re a sommelier or someone<br />
who’s just getting curious, a<br />
knowledgeable staff member is<br />
always there to chaperon your<br />
journey to the perfect bottle.
SPEND A YEAR<br />
ON THE COAST<br />
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A Landfall Landscape<br />
How one family transformed their Landfall home<br />
into a stunning waterfront haven<br />
By LORI WILSON » Photos KAREN ZIP (Cape Fear Real Estate Directory)<br />
82 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
As the owner of Nest<br />
Fine Gifts and Interiors,<br />
Monika Williams<br />
knows design—almost<br />
everything in the<br />
house, from window<br />
treatments to rugs and<br />
home furnishings, is<br />
from her store.<br />
MOST WILMINGTON<br />
locals can tell you that<br />
Landfall, the 2,200-acre<br />
gated community and<br />
country club, is home<br />
to some of the city’s most impressive<br />
homes and sought-after lots. The team<br />
at Landfall Realty, of course, represents<br />
many of the transactions, both for sellers<br />
and buyers, within the premiere grounds.<br />
One, in particular, with its spectacular<br />
design and the dreamiest of dreamy water<br />
views, ranks among one of the best projects<br />
the Landfall Realty team has seen.<br />
Landfall Realty represented buyers Rich<br />
and Monika Williams, long-time residents<br />
of the neighborhood who trusted the<br />
agency. While they were just living down<br />
the street from their current residence, the<br />
Williams moved in on the opportunity for<br />
change after falling in love with the land,<br />
specifically its marsh and Intracoastal<br />
Waterway views.<br />
They knew the home–the structure<br />
itself–didn’t suit their family of six, but<br />
the landscape could not be beaten. After<br />
grappling with the previous footprint for<br />
almost a year, the couple finally called<br />
it—a rebuild was in order.<br />
Team members at Landfall Realty<br />
predict that, as time goes on, the<br />
community will likely see more of these<br />
reconstruction approaches as the value of<br />
land continues to blossom astronomically.<br />
The neighborhood includes homes built<br />
in the 1980s or 1990s that are no longer<br />
conducive to the size or amenities that<br />
buyers desire. In some cases, the land<br />
value outweighs the physical structure.<br />
While a new build project comes with its<br />
obstacles, Rich and Monika Williams were<br />
up to the challenge. As the owner of Nest<br />
Fine Gifts and Interiors, Monika Williams<br />
has all the knowledge, skills, resources<br />
and product to take on a blank canvas.<br />
Building a New Footprint<br />
First, the Williamses met with residential<br />
designer Scott Sullivan of Sullivan Design<br />
Company to map out the exterior.<br />
“We really wanted something European,”<br />
says Monika Williams. “But we weren’t<br />
sure exactly how that would manifest.”<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 83
Residential designer Scott<br />
Sullivan of Sullivan Design<br />
Company mapped out the<br />
exterior, incorporating<br />
a romantic brick, slatepitched<br />
roof and Spanish<br />
colonial themes in the iron<br />
railings and arched details<br />
over the windows.<br />
Perhaps closest to European designs, the<br />
home features a luxurious yet effortless<br />
styling with its romantic brick exterior,<br />
slate-pitched roof and stately chimney.<br />
Spanish colonial themes also ring in with<br />
elegant wrought iron railings and arched<br />
details over windows at the front and<br />
garage doors.<br />
“It’s funny–we had picked out a nice<br />
brick, but we were going to do a whitewash<br />
look,” says Williams. “But when<br />
we saw it finished, we thought, ‘We can’t<br />
paint that.’”<br />
The Williams looked for symmetry by<br />
adding two-car garages on each wing of<br />
the home, framing their overall structure<br />
(another nod to a European look).<br />
Besides, a four-car garage wasn’t a<br />
bad idea for this family of six, with four<br />
now-adult daughters. When they built<br />
the home almost seven years ago, they<br />
were thinking long-term. A rebuild was<br />
especially needed to make room for<br />
family, including Monika’s mother, who<br />
has moved in with the Williams.<br />
“The best thing about the structure we<br />
built was that we really took our time to<br />
plan out how we live,” says Williams. “My<br />
mother has her own wing, like a little<br />
mini apartment within the house. She has<br />
a really pretty view on her side, too.”<br />
The beautiful<br />
banisters were<br />
designed and<br />
fashioned by local<br />
artisan Ben Kastner<br />
of Intracoastal<br />
Iron Works.<br />
It all comes back to the view. Nearly<br />
every room in the house features a scene<br />
of the water, as the floor plan was built to<br />
maximize the horizon of the lot.<br />
“We could have built a little teepee on this<br />
property and it’d still be great,” she says.<br />
The Williams entertain often (having<br />
even hosted a wedding!), so an open floor<br />
plan was also a must. While the couple’s<br />
offices and mother-in-law suite can be<br />
found on the right wing of the house, the<br />
left wing is meant for entertaining.<br />
84 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
(above) Nearly every room in the house<br />
features a scene of the water, as the floor plan<br />
was built to maximize the horizon of the lot.<br />
(left) The dining room incorporates a mix of<br />
gold accents, antiques and new pieces.<br />
Designing for a Designer<br />
Toward the end of the building process, it<br />
was time to bring in Williams’ Nest team.<br />
“Almost everything in the house from<br />
window treatments to rugs to home<br />
furnishings–everything–is from Nest,” says<br />
Williams. “All designs came from myself or<br />
someone on the Nest team at the time.”<br />
Upon opening the front door, guests<br />
are immediately greeted by striking,<br />
yet cohesive, features. A herringbone<br />
patterned rug, made of cowhide, quite<br />
literally lures you in, pointing in the<br />
direction of more to see. The warm browns<br />
of the brick exterior flow smoothly with<br />
the inside final product.<br />
“I’m kind of a neutral person,” says<br />
Williams, “so the house is pretty neutral.<br />
While I love a lot of color for a beach house<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 85
Williams put great value<br />
on the little details of<br />
the kitchen, such as the<br />
limestone hood with the<br />
copper overhang, creamcolored<br />
cabinetry with<br />
brown trim details and<br />
marble countertops.<br />
or maybe a second house, for our main<br />
home I like neutral. That’s just me.”<br />
But let’s not mistake neutral for average<br />
or plain. Past the statement rug, a wonder<br />
of textures and patterns awaits. On<br />
paper, the lay audience may not have been<br />
convinced that the mixture of surfaces<br />
blends, but Williams knows how to pull it<br />
off—and with gusto.<br />
While the common areas of the home<br />
feature mostly browns and beiges,<br />
Williams’ office, which she dubs her<br />
library, pays homage to the neutral grays,<br />
with stunning wallpaper, a rug with<br />
metallic accents and a mirrored chest of<br />
drawers that ties it all together.<br />
The spaces flow openly, but each room<br />
has its specialties—from the gold accents<br />
of the dining room to the kitchen’s marble<br />
countertop and oven range backsplash<br />
tile to the den's stone fireplace and rustic<br />
overhead beams—all with a warm,<br />
neutral theme.<br />
“Everyone says that for the size of<br />
the house, it’s very warm and cozy,”<br />
explains Williams.<br />
The Williamses took<br />
their time to plan the<br />
design of the home<br />
around how their<br />
family of six lives.<br />
86 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
With a love for cooking, Williams put<br />
great value on the little details of the<br />
kitchen, such as the limestone hood<br />
with the copper overhang. The cabinetry<br />
isn’t just a neutral cream color–upon<br />
closer look, brown trim details give them<br />
much depth.<br />
When the cooking is done, of course, it’s<br />
time to entertain. Nestled between the<br />
foyer and dining room is their built-in bar,<br />
perfect for transitioning folks between<br />
spaces, all with large windows and French<br />
doors lining the waterway scene.<br />
For cozier evenings by the fireplace, the<br />
den is the warmest of the home’s areas,<br />
with many rustic elements.<br />
“I do have a little rustic side to me. One<br />
of our designers that used to work with us<br />
said ‘I’m in touch with my inner lodge,’”<br />
says Williams with a laugh.<br />
In fact, despite owning a home interiors<br />
store with many items available for order,<br />
Williams still loves to mix antiques with<br />
new pieces. Much of the art in the home,<br />
for example, is from years of collecting.<br />
In the den sits one of her favorite small<br />
details, an antique English farm trough,<br />
which Williams currently uses to display<br />
plants by the fireplace.<br />
The upstairs master bedroom also<br />
includes a fireplace, this time with a<br />
more elegant tone. To maximize the best<br />
view of the house, the master features a<br />
tall A-frame ceiling and an arched fourwindow<br />
wall.<br />
Williams notes one of her favorite<br />
features of this room: the draperies were<br />
built into the wall, behind the trim work,<br />
instead of needing a specialty curtain rod<br />
(top left) Williams’ office incorporates neutral grays, with stunning wallpaper, a rug with metallic accents and a mirrored chest of drawers.<br />
(top right) The den is the warmest of the home’s areas, incorporating many rustic elements. (bottom) The rec room speaks to the rustic, warm<br />
themes of the home, but easily acts as both a man cave or an ultimate party space.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 87
To maximize the best<br />
view of the house,<br />
the master bedroom<br />
features a tall A-frame<br />
ceiling and an arched<br />
four-window wall.<br />
While the majority of<br />
the house incorporates a<br />
neutral palette, Williams<br />
blends surfaces and<br />
textures to make each<br />
room interesting.<br />
that would take away from the sights of<br />
the marsh and Intracoastal.<br />
Outside the master, among the upstairs<br />
bedrooms’ hallway and sitting room,<br />
family members can take a peek into<br />
the foyer below, continuing the open-air<br />
design. The beautiful banisters were<br />
designed and fashioned by local artisan<br />
Ben Kastner of Intracoastal Iron Works,<br />
to whom Williams has since referred<br />
several Nest clients.<br />
Maximizing Entertainment<br />
Down the hall from Williams’ mother’s<br />
wing is a staircase that leads to the rec<br />
room. This space speaks to the rustic,<br />
warm themes of the home, but easily acts<br />
as both a man cave or an ultimate party<br />
space, complete with a pool table, darts,<br />
full bar, PacMan and popcorn machine.<br />
The brown brick design of the exterior<br />
carries into the rec room, as well as on the<br />
floors leading to two separate staircases.<br />
88 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Just past the upstairs<br />
bar, French doors open<br />
to a completely covered<br />
exterior room, or<br />
loggia, adjacent to the<br />
pool, with water that<br />
almost looks eye-level<br />
to the Intracoastal.<br />
On the loggia, the<br />
Williams family has<br />
shared many coffees,<br />
dinners and even<br />
Azalea Garden Party<br />
pre-gatherings.<br />
It’s all fun, but also functions, with the<br />
intent and design of the Williams home.<br />
For nice weather days, let’s now consider<br />
the outside space. Just past the upstairs<br />
bar, French doors open to a completely<br />
covered exterior room, or loggia, adjacent<br />
to the pool, with water that almost looks<br />
eye-level to the Intracoastal. Guests can<br />
enjoy many comfortable resting places to<br />
take in the views. Perhaps they may even<br />
take a walk to tour Williams’ rose garden<br />
out front.<br />
On the loggia, the Williams family has<br />
shared many coffees, dinners and even<br />
Azalea Garden Party pre-gatherings. In<br />
fact, this last April, their outdoor space<br />
was privy to an important proposal,<br />
the engagement of one of the Williams<br />
daughters.<br />
While exterior style, water scenes and<br />
interior details undeniably impress, it’s<br />
clear that the Williams were always<br />
building with family in mind. W<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 89
The Cotton Exchange<br />
building downtown was<br />
originally home to a thriving<br />
cotton export business and<br />
has been repurposed to<br />
accommodate over 30 shops<br />
and restaurants.<br />
Revitalizing a Historic Gem<br />
The Cotton Exchange becomes a destination of choice for locals<br />
seeking unique shops, services and entertainment<br />
By JEN REED » Photos MADELINE GRAY<br />
IT’S A CLOUDY SATURDAY AFTERNOON IN THE<br />
Lower Cape Fear as Alana Ricci, with daughter Stephanie<br />
in tow, makes her way through the shops of the Cotton<br />
Exchange. She ends up at Paddy’s Hollow, one of several<br />
full-service casual eateries located in the collection of<br />
historic buildings on <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s Front Street in the heart of<br />
the downtown area.<br />
Ricci, who hails from Asheville, confesses she visits the Cotton<br />
Exchange every time she visits her in-laws in <strong>Wilmington</strong>. She<br />
says there is something exciting yet serene about browsing<br />
through the multitude of eclectic shops.<br />
“I just love this place so much,” she says, between bites of<br />
her favorite fried green tomatoes. “I always find something<br />
interesting; this place [The Cotton Exchange] is never the same<br />
place twice. There is always something new to discover.”<br />
Many tourists to the <strong>Wilmington</strong> area have passed through<br />
the Cotton Exchange, just like Alana and Stephanie do every<br />
few months when they come to town. The collection of shops and<br />
restaurants has long relied on tourism for its livelihood, and,<br />
according to General Manager Cheryl Bullock, that will never<br />
90 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
(clockwise from above) Unique home decor items are for sale at<br />
Urban Goods and Garden; Kids summer clothing on display at Little<br />
Locals Clothing Co.; Sunglasses for kids sit on the shelves at Little<br />
Locals Clothing Co.; Melody Maffei (left) and Peggy White (right) shop<br />
for kids clothes with the help of Jamie Shepard (center), owner of<br />
Little Locals Clothing Co.<br />
change. But what they are trying to change is how the Cotton<br />
Exchange is viewed by <strong>Wilmington</strong>ians.<br />
“While it’s true we rely on tourism, what we really want is to<br />
become a destination for those who live here,” says Bullock. “It’s<br />
important that they find us and that we are able to satisfy their<br />
needs, especially those living in and around the downtown area.<br />
We want to give them a reason not to have to get into their car<br />
and drive elsewhere.”<br />
The Cotton Exchange is home to some 30 unique specialty<br />
shops and restaurants housed within an eight-building complex.<br />
The buildings are connected by brick walkways and open-air<br />
courtyards and have been painstakingly restored to reflect the<br />
charm and style of 19th-century <strong>Wilmington</strong> when the port was<br />
a bustling center for trade around the world.<br />
Constructed years before the Civil War, the formerly known<br />
“Sprunt Building” was home to the Cape Fear Flour and Pearl<br />
Hominy Mill in 1884. In 1919, the building would be repurposed<br />
to make room for another industry giant, Alexander Sprunt &<br />
Sons. Sprunt & Sons had massive success in the cotton export<br />
industry, becoming the biggest cotton company in the world.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 91
(top left) The Cotton Exchange’s central courtyard as seen from<br />
the balcony of Paddy’s Hollow Restaurant and Pub. (top right)<br />
Jewelry is on display at Down to Earth Aromatics. (right) More<br />
unique home decor from Urban Goods and Garden.<br />
Delivering cotton to ports in Europe, England, and America,<br />
it’s Sprunt’s thriving shipping endeavors that earned “The<br />
Cotton Exchange” its name.<br />
The Cotton Exchange building was purchased by Cheryl’s<br />
parents, John and Jean Bullock, in 1990, and the family has<br />
run the destination business ever since. Cheryl’s sister Nancy<br />
led the organization until her retirement five years ago, before<br />
Cheryl took the helm.<br />
The future of the Cotton Exchange is very much a personal<br />
endeavor for the Bullock family. In the continued effort to attract<br />
more local business, Cheryl says the Cotton Exchange is evolving<br />
from strictly retail and restaurants to businesses that are more<br />
service-oriented, including a barbershop, health and beauty salon,<br />
and a tattoo studio, among others. And in addition to services<br />
provided, live music and educational programming are being added,<br />
not only to delight tourists but to give residents a reason to come out,<br />
enjoy a cocktail and the local performances, and perhaps learn about<br />
the history of the community they call home.<br />
92 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Another look inside Urban<br />
Goods and Garden.<br />
As a result of this goal, the biggest push is the shift in the<br />
organization’s advertising strategy. While they have traditionally<br />
focused on the tourism market, they are now working with their<br />
advertising agency to shift toward the local market.<br />
The shift in marketing focus is also personal to each business<br />
owner under the Cotton Exchange roofs. As Cheryl puts it, these<br />
are not simply people going to work each day; they are individuals<br />
who have made running these businesses their life’s work, and<br />
they depend on the success of the new strategy.<br />
Each business owner is a member of the Cotton Exchange<br />
Merchants Association, whose Board of Directors meets monthly<br />
to brainstorm and plan ways to bring more visitors to the location.<br />
There are several events in the early stages, and while Cheryl is<br />
not quite ready to share the details, she promises some “exciting<br />
things are ahead.”<br />
Earlier this year, the Cotton Exchange held its first annual<br />
Pirate Festival, a weekend-long educational event held in March<br />
that included costumed enactors, weapons display, and an<br />
exploration of the history of the Cape Fear River and Region.<br />
“There is so much to learn and know about this area, especially<br />
during the 1800s,” she explains. “It’s one of the reasons we want<br />
people to come visit us.”<br />
Many stories are told throughout the building, with displays<br />
Paula Smith, co-owner of<br />
Urban Goods and Garden,<br />
stands inside her shop.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 93
Taylor Smith applies<br />
eyelash extensions for<br />
a client at her beauty<br />
studio, Keeping It Glam.<br />
chronicling the evolution of <strong>Wilmington</strong> through the years. She<br />
says they are hoping to expand on that. And while guided tours<br />
are not regularly offered through the Cotton Exchange, Cheryl<br />
says they are considering ways to incorporate video screens with<br />
informative content that can be played for visitors to view as they<br />
explore the building. The <strong>Wilmington</strong> Walk of Fame is also located<br />
in the Cotton Exchange, a display casting light on residents of the<br />
city who have become celebrities in sports and the arts.<br />
The Christmas season usually attracts many tourists,<br />
with lights and decorations displayed throughout the<br />
complex. That’s actually how Taylor Keeping Smith<br />
ended up locating her business, Keeping It Glam, a<br />
beauty salon specializing in lash extensions, waxing,<br />
and skincare in the Cotton Exchange.<br />
Originally from Clayton, NC, Taylor says she has<br />
always been drawn to the beach and often spent vacations in the<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> area. In fact, she and her now-husband Julian had<br />
their first date at Wrightsville Beach, so the area has always held<br />
a special place for the couple. After graduating and becoming a<br />
licensed aesthetician in 2019, Taylor and Julian took the leap of<br />
faith and moved to <strong>Wilmington</strong>, and it wasn’t long before plans<br />
to open the business were in the works.<br />
“We knew we wanted to be in downtown <strong>Wilmington</strong>,” she<br />
explains. “But we just couldn’t seem to find the perfect location.”<br />
Admittedly frustrated by the process, the couple visited the<br />
94 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Cotton Exchange during the 2021 holiday season. Given her<br />
love of Christmas, Taylor fell in love with the location, and the<br />
business officially opened its doors in January 2022.<br />
“I wanted to give visitors a reason to stop in,” she says,<br />
acknowledging the service aspect of the core business. “It’s been<br />
really nice. We’ve gotten to meet people we wouldn’t normally meet.<br />
This location is just awesome, and we are so grateful to be here.”<br />
Business owner Jamie Shepard, who runs Little Locals<br />
Clothing Co., a clothing shop that caters to children, is doing<br />
dual duty as a member of the executive team of the Merchants<br />
Association. Running a niche business as she does, she relies on<br />
awareness to draw traffic through the door. And while she has<br />
had a good amount of repeat business from tourists, she thinks<br />
the business could benefit greatly from a mix of locals as well.<br />
She offers clothing, toys, books, and other items that can’t<br />
(left) Some of the offerings from Momentum Distillery sit on the<br />
mantel inside the shop. (below) Hunter Ford, owner of Momentum<br />
Distillery, talks with customers inside the shop and distillery.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 95
simply be found anywhere, making her shop unique. Her goal is<br />
to continue offering top-quality items that children will love, and<br />
parents will want for their kids.<br />
“If I wouldn’t want my kids wearing it, it won’t be in this store,”<br />
she explains.<br />
It’s that commitment to quality and customer service Jaime<br />
says she hopes will resonate with locals.<br />
For the first time in its history, the Cotton Exchange now boasts<br />
a distillery among the roster of businesses. Momentum Distillery,<br />
known for spirits in a<br />
unique bottle shaped<br />
like the state of North<br />
Carolina, has called<br />
the destination home<br />
for slightly more than<br />
a year.<br />
The Momentum<br />
brand was founded by Hunter and Misti Ford, who started<br />
a surf shop business in the Outer Banks years ago. They<br />
eventually found their way to <strong>Wilmington</strong> and established<br />
Burnt Mill Creek Billiards and Wine Bar, which was a<br />
mainstay for high-end entertainment for years. Landing at<br />
the Cotton Exchange and running the distillery represents the<br />
natural progression of what they have done with their journey,<br />
says Hunter.<br />
Momentum Distillery is open seven days per week and sells<br />
its small-batch vodka, gin, limoncello, and orangecello, among<br />
other spirits. This eliminates the need for residents to visit the<br />
ABC Store, making it a convenient offering.<br />
Business owners Josie Whitmore and Paula Smith, founders<br />
of Urban Goods and Gardens, represent an amalgam of service<br />
and retail. Josie and Paula are interior designers and run<br />
their business out<br />
of a retail shop that<br />
includes funky and<br />
“There is so much to learn and know about this<br />
area, especially during the 1800s. It’s one of the<br />
reasons we want people to come visit us.”<br />
eclectic decorations<br />
for the home and is<br />
an official retailer<br />
of the Farmhouse<br />
Paint brand.<br />
A full list of businesses can be found by visiting the website<br />
shopcottonexchange.com. The next time you find yourself with<br />
a few moments, it’s worth the trip downtown – where there<br />
is plenty of parking available – or a walk down the street<br />
to discover what so many tourists know makes downtown<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> special. W<br />
Cheryl Bullock, whose<br />
family bought the Cotton<br />
Exchange in 1990, stands<br />
inside the building’s<br />
historic walkway.<br />
96 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
dining review libations in the kitchen restaurant guide<br />
PHOTO G. FRANK HART<br />
Dining with<br />
a View<br />
A classic <strong>Wilmington</strong>ian spot<br />
gets a new menu<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 97
The George<br />
on the Riverwalk<br />
A revamped Southern fare menu with an Asian twist<br />
breathes new life into The George<br />
128 S Water Street<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC<br />
910.763.2052<br />
thegeorgerestaurant.com<br />
By JUDY ROYAL » Photos by G. FRANK HART<br />
EDSON MUNEKATA CAN’T<br />
seem to get away from the<br />
restaurant business, no matter how<br />
hard he tries.<br />
Take The George on the Riverwalk,<br />
for instance. When the original owners<br />
of this longtime downtown <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
eatery decided to sell in 2021, Munekata<br />
was mostly interested in the real estate<br />
value of the prime location. In fact, he<br />
was strongly considering retirement.<br />
His business partner Freddy Lee,<br />
however, had a lifelong dream of having<br />
a waterfront restaurant.<br />
“Freddy owns other concepts with casual<br />
upscale menus,” says Munekata. “He<br />
brought his dishes from the other locations<br />
and adapted, leaning a little more toward<br />
seafood. We felt like a little change of pace<br />
would help with new ownership, although<br />
we decided to keep the same name.”<br />
Munekata and Lee took over in early<br />
2022, and their efforts quickly paid off.<br />
“We went from doing close to nothing<br />
in January, and then by March we were<br />
probably doing five times what we did in the<br />
beginning,” says Munekata. “It was kind of<br />
incredible to see. I think the season has a<br />
lot to do with the increase in business, but<br />
our goal was basically to try to cater more<br />
toward the locals because we knew the<br />
tourists were a given, but if we didn’t please<br />
the locals we’re going to struggle through<br />
the winter months. I think it worked. Even<br />
comparing this January to January of last<br />
year, we did so much better this year, and<br />
we’re very thankful for the local support<br />
that we have.”<br />
The George is open for lunch and dinner<br />
The Black Bass entrée<br />
comes with coconut rice,<br />
spinach, red curry and<br />
pineapple relish.<br />
Tuesday through Saturday and brunch<br />
on Sunday. Head Chef Aaron Rinere, who<br />
has worked his way up at the restaurant<br />
over the past seven years, describes the<br />
revamped menu as “Southern American<br />
Asian cuisine.” He and Lee, who is based<br />
in Winston-Salem, collaborated to create<br />
something fresh and new that would<br />
appeal to Port City patrons. The result is<br />
a new spin on classic fare, including the<br />
Seared Rare Ahi Tuna appetizer with<br />
pickled vegetables, bok choy, sesame soba<br />
noodles and wasabi. There is also a Black<br />
Bass entrée with coconut rice, spinach, red<br />
curry and pineapple relish. Those who like<br />
to stick with the staples can enjoy favorites<br />
Choose from<br />
a variety of<br />
drinks, including<br />
a refreshing<br />
Delgado<br />
Margarita.<br />
98 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Indoor dining<br />
features<br />
a more<br />
sophisticated,<br />
airconditioned<br />
experience.<br />
Patio seating<br />
overlooks the<br />
Cape Fear River.<br />
Fried Oysters<br />
“Rockefeller” is a<br />
local favorite.<br />
Head Chef Aaron Rinere<br />
and General Manager<br />
Kerra Rinere revamped<br />
the menu as “Southern<br />
American Asian cuisine.”<br />
such as Fried Oysters “Rockefeller,”<br />
Shrimp & Grits, Blackened Angus Ribeye<br />
and Surf & Turf. The lunch lineup includes<br />
a Smoked Bacon & Pimento Cheeseburger,<br />
Crab Cake Sandwich, Blackened Chicken<br />
Caesar Wrap and Crumb Fried Catfish,<br />
and among the brunch offerings are Crab<br />
Benedict, Fried Pickled Chicken & Waffles<br />
and several omelets.<br />
“It’s a whole new beast,” says Rinere,<br />
who is married to General Manager Kerra<br />
Rinere. “Give it a try if you haven’t been<br />
here in a while. It may have the same name,<br />
but it is a completely different restaurant<br />
than it was two years ago. We’ve gotten a<br />
lot of positive feedback.”<br />
He credits teamwork for the<br />
recent success.<br />
“I’m one person,” says Rinere. “It’s all the<br />
other chefs that work the line. They’re the<br />
ones cooking the dish. I’m just making sure<br />
it comes out right.”<br />
Munekata, who lives in Ocean Isle Beach<br />
and also owns multiple locations of Cowboy<br />
Brazilian Steakhouse, agrees that a<br />
restaurant is only as good as the staff that<br />
handles day-to-day operations.<br />
“You can’t micromanage everything<br />
because you’re gonna get paranoid, so<br />
you just hope and pray that you hire good<br />
people and they’re doing their fair share,”<br />
he says. “It’s 100 percent who is elbow to<br />
elbow with you. If you don’t have a good<br />
staff, you can’t do it all by yourself.”<br />
A luxury among downtown businesses,<br />
The George offers free parking for its<br />
patrons in the lot directly across the street,<br />
which can be accessed via Market House<br />
Alley off Front Street. Customers must ask<br />
for validation when they arrive. There’s a<br />
dock if you want to come by boat, and the<br />
large outdoor patio overlooking the Cape<br />
Fear River is dog-friendly. Reservations<br />
may be made on the restaurant’s website or<br />
via Open Table.<br />
Munekata says while much of the recent<br />
focus at The George has been on the food,<br />
customer service is always a top priority.<br />
“It’s a destination type of place, and<br />
we’re very thankful for that,” he adds. “But<br />
we can’t take it for granted and not take<br />
care of the guests, so we try to do our best.<br />
Hopefully, we’re doing our best to please<br />
the customer. I don’t want them to pay for<br />
something they’re unhappy with. I’m a<br />
customer as well, so I just want to be as<br />
fair as possible to my clientele.” W<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 99
libations<br />
The Sorrow Drowner<br />
features vaudeville-style<br />
acts on select evenings,<br />
including the occasional<br />
burlesque review (ticketed).<br />
A Hidden Gem<br />
No More<br />
The Sorrow Drowner is an immersive tiki-noir bar<br />
experience you can’t miss<br />
I<br />
FINALLY GOT THE CHANCE<br />
to visit a place that’s been on my<br />
bucket list since moving here last<br />
fall, and it did not disappoint.<br />
Since that night, I’ve asked nearly<br />
everyone I come across if they’ve been, yet<br />
received nothing but comments like “Come<br />
again?” or “Where is this place?” I posted<br />
a video to social media and received a few<br />
100 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
By CARIN HALL » Photos G. FRANK HART<br />
comments that read something like, “How<br />
have I lived here this long and not known<br />
about this place?” Believe me when I say<br />
I’m very disappointed to have to refer to it<br />
as “a hidden gem.”<br />
Perhaps the fact that it’s on the corner of<br />
10th and Dock Street, slightly off the overly<br />
trodden path of the downtown bar scene,<br />
has something to do with it. It’s also faced<br />
PHOTO DACIA ZIMMER @ZIMMER_TRAVELER INSTAGRAM
A view of the lower level<br />
from the stage.<br />
The Red Bird, on the<br />
summer special menu,<br />
is made with Empress<br />
gin, Bigallet China-China<br />
liqueur, lime juice and<br />
falernum in an absinthewashed<br />
glass.<br />
some unique challenges since opening in<br />
2019, from inconsistent crowds to difficulty<br />
finding suitable acts as performers for its<br />
stage shows and, of course, the pandemic.<br />
“That’s been unusual and challenging, but<br />
everyone who comes in loves it and leaves<br />
happy,” says owner Alfred Brian Wheatley.<br />
“And that’s made me very proud of it.”<br />
Even though tiki bars usually do well in<br />
other parts of the country, the <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
market has been harder to predict.<br />
Wheatley originally considered opening in<br />
another location, but ultimately decided to<br />
do it where he and his brother, Brandon,<br />
grew up—“somewhere that we love.”<br />
The inspiration behind it all stemmed<br />
from the brothers’ desire to create a space<br />
that captured the spirit of adventure and<br />
enchantment. A nod to places like the<br />
Adventurers Club at Walt Disney World Resort<br />
and the Jekyll and Hyde Club in New York, they<br />
embarked on an ambitious endeavor to bring<br />
their concept to life. With the help of a generous<br />
offer from a family friend and designed by<br />
former Disney Imagineer Brandon Kleyla (aka<br />
Trader Brandon), they were able to realize<br />
their dream.<br />
We’d like to thank the readers<br />
who chose us and the creativity<br />
of our culinary experts, led by<br />
Head Chef Brittany Williams,<br />
for winning best appetizers.<br />
Rumcow is an exquisite masterpiece<br />
of fine cocktails and appetizers, made<br />
for the perfect venture in <strong>Wilmington</strong>.<br />
Main dishes exasperate the experience<br />
even more delightful than a typical<br />
dinner night that the town can offer.<br />
The expansive global flair options<br />
comfort all foodies to make Rumcow a<br />
mandated favorite!<br />
121 Grace Street, <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910-769-4659<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 101
libations<br />
Grab a seat at<br />
the bar to order<br />
one of the many<br />
signature, Tikithemed<br />
cocktails.<br />
The Painkiller is made with<br />
Pusser’s rum, pineapple and<br />
orange juice, coconut and<br />
smoldering-cinnamon garnish.<br />
The Mai-Tai is<br />
made with aged<br />
Jamaican and<br />
Agricole rums, dry<br />
curacao, orgeat<br />
and lime juice.<br />
(above) Photos from a burlesque show put on by Charlotte’s Flamingo Review, taken by NC<br />
travel/lifestyle influencer Daria Zimmer.<br />
Upon entry, patrons are invited to get<br />
lost in the story, and walk the two levels to<br />
discover old paintings, books and artifacts<br />
(including a shrunken head or two). Expect<br />
some quirky musings from the wait staff,<br />
acting out the tale of a secretive history<br />
of their explorers’ club, The Lemurian<br />
Institute. Drowning their sorrows while<br />
the directors are out adventuring, these<br />
folks keep the Institute running. (This<br />
is all fictional for those who needed the<br />
clarification, including my husband who I<br />
pleaded with not to ask our server if the<br />
shrunken heads were real).<br />
As if the ambiance isn’t enough, the<br />
menu is surprisingly exceptional, including<br />
some shareable plates and pupu platters.<br />
Wheatly prioritized the quality of food<br />
from the start, bringing on Chef Al DeVane<br />
from Carolina Son BBQ who, according to<br />
Wheatly, has been a “godsend.” The drinks<br />
were also meticulously crafted mostly by<br />
Wheatley and his wife, Bunny, who spent<br />
years perfecting the recipes.<br />
On select evenings, the stage comes alive<br />
with a vaudeville-style revue featuring<br />
a variety of acts as well as an interactive<br />
cast of wandering comedic characters. The<br />
burlesque shows are particularly popular<br />
and always sell out.<br />
Considering the ups and downs over the<br />
years, including a temporary 10-week shut<br />
down due to a refrigeration mechanical issue,<br />
Wheatley has spent a lot of time contemplating<br />
exactly what’s working for the location and<br />
what’s not. The good news is they’re now in<br />
a position of needing to bring on new staff<br />
and are always on the lookout for talent<br />
(who don’t also mind serving and interacting<br />
with guests).<br />
“I’m moving a lot of our talent in-house<br />
to ensure more reliable entertainment for<br />
patrons,” says Wheatley. That includes<br />
a comedian and burlesque performer as<br />
part of the wait staff, and a house band,<br />
VibeXotica, playing every Friday and<br />
Saturday night.<br />
They’ve also added movie and trivia<br />
nights that—with 13+ hours (before 8 pm)<br />
and 18+ evenings—offer a younger crowd<br />
and families more options for things to do<br />
in the downtown area.<br />
But honestly, the whole place is a vibe<br />
just on its own and is well worth a visit<br />
regardless of featured acts or events. The<br />
food and drinks are spot on, and it’s a great<br />
place to roam and talk amongst friends<br />
or to enjoy a date night. It’s certainly one<br />
of the most memorable spots I’ve found in<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>. But for the perfectionist that<br />
Wheatley is, it will probably always keep<br />
evolving and improving.<br />
“This place has been my entire life for<br />
the last four years,” he says. “No place will<br />
ever be perfect or complete to me, but this<br />
comes pretty close.” W<br />
PERFORMACE PHOTOS DACIA ZIMMER @ZIMMER_TRAVELER INSTAGRAM<br />
102 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
WE’LL SEE YOU AT<br />
HAPPY HOUR<br />
*SUNDAY - FRIDAY, 4 PM -7 PM<br />
244 N. WATER STREET, WILMINGTON | 919.343.1818<br />
THANKS FOR VOTING US<br />
BEST SUSHI IN WILMINGTON!<br />
Come experience the best sushi<br />
and a full pan-Asian menu, amid<br />
modern Tokyo vogue décor in<br />
downtown. Enjoy craft cocktails,<br />
wine, beer and sake.<br />
33 N. Front St, <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910-763-3172<br />
yosake.com<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 103
Pop of Color<br />
Cool & easy summer recipes showcase the colors of the season<br />
Recipes and photos by KAITLIN GOODING<br />
104 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
SUMMERTIME IS KNOWN FOR ITS VIBRANT PRODUCE AND THESE FRESH RECIPES<br />
showcase all of the colors of the season. Enjoy coastal flavors by adding fresh shrimp to this pasta salad<br />
dressed in a honey-lime vinaigrette. Perfect for date night! Take these creamy coconut lime bars to a<br />
summer gathering or the basil-pistachio feta crostinis topped with baked local strawberries. Let's face<br />
it, a meal without bread is unthinkable. Savor every bite of these crispy potatoes with hints of thyme<br />
and bits of salt flakes. Quench your thirst with our summer sipper, perfectly enjoyed on the porch or<br />
poolside. You can't escape that Southern heat, but you won’t break a sweat creating these easy recipes.<br />
Basil - Pistachio Feta Crostini & Baked Strawberries<br />
Servings: 2 cups of feta spread<br />
Pistachio Feta Crostini Ingredients:<br />
1 baguette, cut into one-inch slices<br />
1/2 cup basil<br />
1 tbsp lemon juice<br />
2 tbsp honey<br />
1/2 cup Greek yogurt<br />
14 oz block of feta cheese<br />
3/4 cup roasted pistachios<br />
3 tbsp olive oil, extra for baguette<br />
Baked Strawberries Ingredients:<br />
1 lb strawberries, stems removed & halved<br />
2 tbsp honey<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.<br />
2. Add parchment paper to a baking sheet and add baguette slices. Coat one side<br />
with olive oil. Place in the oven and cook 5-10 minutes or until lightly toasted.<br />
Remove from the oven and set aside.<br />
3. Add strawberries to a bowl and coat in honey. Add the strawberries to a baking<br />
sheet on parchment paper and cook for 15-20 minutes.<br />
4. While the strawberries are cooking, add all the ingredients for the feta, except<br />
the baguettes, into a high-powered blender. Blend until smooth.<br />
5. Spread the feta on top of the crostinis and top it off with the baked<br />
strawberries. Add basil leaves as a garnish if you want a pop of color. Enjoy!<br />
Summer Sipper<br />
Servings: 1<br />
Ingredients:<br />
2 oz coconut milk<br />
1 oz lime juice<br />
2 oz tequila<br />
2 oz grapefruit juice<br />
1 oz simple syrup<br />
Shredded coconut for the rim<br />
Honey to rim the glass<br />
Directions:<br />
1. To make the coconut rim, lightly dip<br />
the top of your glass in honey. On<br />
a separate plate, add the shredded<br />
coconut and roll the honey part of<br />
the glass through the coconut to<br />
create the rim. Set the prepared<br />
glass aside.<br />
2. Combine the coconut milk, lime<br />
juice, tequila, grapefruit juice, and<br />
simple syrup into a cocktail shaker.<br />
Fill with ice and shake until well<br />
combined.<br />
3. Pour into your prepared glass and<br />
top it off with lime to garnish. Drink<br />
and enjoy!<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 105
106 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Shrimp Pasta with<br />
Honey-lime Dressing<br />
Servings: 4 - 5<br />
Ingredients:<br />
16 oz uncooked farfalle pasta, cook according to package<br />
directions for al dente<br />
2 mangoes (peeled & diced)<br />
2 lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined<br />
1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion<br />
2 cups baby arugula<br />
1/2 cup shaved Parmesan<br />
Kosher salt/ pepper<br />
1/4 cup olive oil<br />
Honey-Lime Dressing (see recipe below)<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Salt and pepper the shrimp. Add olive oil to a sauté pan and<br />
cook the shrimp on medium heat. Cook about 1-2 minutes per<br />
side, or until pink, and remove from heat.<br />
2. In a large bowl add the cooked shrimp, cooked pasta,<br />
arugula, Parmesan, mango and red onion. Add the honeylime<br />
dressing and toss together. Plate your dish and season<br />
to your liking with salt and pepper. This dish can be served<br />
hot or cold.<br />
Honey - Lime<br />
Vinaigrette<br />
Ingredients:<br />
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil<br />
1 tsp Dijon mustard<br />
1 tbsp lime zest<br />
Pinch of salt<br />
2 tsp honey<br />
2 tbsp champagne vinegar<br />
Juice of 1/2 lime<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Add all ingredients together into<br />
a high-powered blender and mix<br />
until well blended.<br />
2. Store in a sealed glass container<br />
in the fridge.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 107
Thyme Potatoes<br />
Servings: 3-4, as a side<br />
Ingredients:<br />
1.5lb golden potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces<br />
6-8 thyme sprigs<br />
Kosher salt & pepper, as desired<br />
1/2 tsp garlic powder<br />
2 tbsp butter<br />
Optional: sea salt flakes<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Add cut potatoes into a pot of boiling salted water. Allow the potatoes to boil for<br />
10-12 minutes. Remove from the water and place on a paper towel to dry.<br />
2. Warm a skillet to medium heat with two tablespoons of butter. Add the potatoes<br />
and sprinkle with salt, pepper, thyme sprigs and garlic powder.<br />
3. Cook in the skillet for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown and crisp. Stir the<br />
potatoes occasionally to cook all sides.<br />
4. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and pick out the thyme sprigs. Season<br />
with flaky sea salt or kosher salt as desired.<br />
108 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Lime Coconut Bars<br />
Servings: 6-7 people for dessert<br />
Ingredients:<br />
Crust:<br />
1.5 cups graham crackers<br />
6 tbsp butter, melted<br />
Pinch of salt<br />
1/4 cup of sugar<br />
1 tsp cinnamon<br />
1 tbsp honey<br />
Filling:<br />
4 eggs<br />
1/2 cup lime juice<br />
3/4 cup canned coconut milk, using the cream at<br />
the top first<br />
1 tsp lime zest<br />
2 spoonfuls of all-purpose flour<br />
1/4 tsp vanilla extract<br />
1/2 cup sugar<br />
Lime, thinly sliced on a mandolin for garnish<br />
Shredded non-sweetened coconut for garnish<br />
Directions:<br />
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.<br />
2. To make the crust, add the graham crackers to a food processor or<br />
high-powered blender and mix until it turns to crumbs. Add the graham<br />
cracker into a bowl and mix in the butter, sugar, cinnamon, salt and<br />
honey. Continue to mix until it holds together.<br />
3. Spray a nine-inch square tart pan with coconut oil. Press the graham<br />
cracker dough into the pan and cook in the oven for 8 minutes. Remove<br />
the pan once it has cooked and allow the crust to cool.<br />
4. In a separate bowl, begin making the filling by adding four, eggs and<br />
sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream it together. Add the flour, zest,<br />
lime juice, coconut milk and extract. Blend until smooth.<br />
5. Place the crust in the tart pan into a large baking pan or baking sheet.<br />
Pour the filling into the crust. Place the pan into the oven and cook for<br />
20-25 minutes or until the filling is set.<br />
6. Once the tart has finished cooking remove from the oven and allow it to<br />
cool. Remove the tart from the pan and cut it into squares or rectangles.<br />
7. Add the thin slices of lime on top and sprinkle coconut on top<br />
to garnish.<br />
8. Place in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 109
- Modern American Cuisine -<br />
BLUESURFRESTAURANTS.COM<br />
The George on the<br />
Riverwalk offers Southern<br />
American Asian cuisine<br />
including the Seared<br />
Rare Ahi Tuna appetizer<br />
with pickled vegetables,<br />
bok choy, sesame soba<br />
noodles and wasabi.<br />
910-406-5050<br />
414 Arboretum Drive - Suite #130<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC 28405<br />
Ready to Eat?<br />
Use our restaurant listings to find the best<br />
eating and drinking in <strong>Wilmington</strong>.<br />
AMERICAN<br />
3315 Cut & Pour 3315 Masonboro<br />
Loop Rd, 399-3969. A steakhouse and<br />
wine bar with an outdoor patio and<br />
live music. An American menu, from<br />
burgers to prime rib.<br />
Blue Surf Café 250 Racine Dr.,<br />
523-5362. Serving breakfast, lunch and<br />
dinner while striving to use as many<br />
locally sourced ingredients as possible,<br />
plus a dog-friendly patio.<br />
Bluewater Grill 4 Marina St.,<br />
256-8500. Offers panoramic views of<br />
the Intracoastal Waterway. Dinner<br />
options include fresh seafood, baby back<br />
ribs, char-grilled steaks and homemade<br />
desserts. Lunch and dinner daily.<br />
Butts-n-Such 802 Lake Park Blvd.<br />
S., 458-2667. Made-to-order breakfast<br />
you can enjoy inside, and a window that<br />
makes it easy to pick up their menu of<br />
house-made barbecue, fried shrimp,<br />
burgers and more.<br />
CheeseSmith 624 S 17th St., 399-3253.<br />
Sandwiches that ooze with distinction<br />
depending on what cheesy combo is<br />
featured. Don’t miss one of their French<br />
fry specialties either.<br />
Copper Penny 109 Chestnut St.,<br />
762-1373. More than a sports bar,<br />
offering an eclectic mix of appetizers,<br />
salads and sandwiches along with an<br />
array of mixed drinks and beers. Lunch<br />
and dinner daily.<br />
Dixie Grill 116 Market St., 762-7280.<br />
A casual dinette known for great<br />
breakfasts and brunch in the heart of<br />
downtown <strong>Wilmington</strong>. Breakfast and<br />
lunch daily.<br />
Famous Toastery 6722 Wrightsville<br />
Ave, 256-7030. Breakfast and lunch<br />
served all day. Try one of their<br />
Benedicts!<br />
Front Street Brewery 9 N. Front St.,<br />
251-1935. Offering great food and micro<br />
brews including gourmet sandwiches,<br />
burgers and entrees like their famous<br />
Scottish Ale Brew-B-Q Ribs. Lunch and<br />
dinner daily.<br />
Henry’s 2508 Independence Blvd.,<br />
793-2929. Locally sourced classic<br />
American fare in an inviting and casual<br />
110 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 111
Fresh | Local | Relax | Enjoy<br />
Three of <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s favorite places...<br />
Monkey Junction<br />
5226 S. College Road • 910-799-7077<br />
Porters Neck<br />
140 Hays Lane, Unit 140 • 910-681-1140<br />
Waterford<br />
143 Poole Road • 910-399-6739<br />
CapeFearSeafoodCompany.com<br />
THANKS FOR VOTING US<br />
BEST DESSERTS AGAIN!<br />
Come experience a fun, unique<br />
evening with fondue!<br />
138 S Front St, <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910-251-0433<br />
littledipperfondue.com<br />
112 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
environment with outdoor dining<br />
available. Lunch and dinner daily.<br />
Hops Supply Co. 5400 Oleander Dr.,<br />
833-8867. From brunch to shareables to<br />
burgers and sandwiches, Hops features<br />
comfort fare with all the sips to wash it<br />
down with.<br />
Midtown Deli & Grill 2316 S 17th<br />
St. #100, 791-4630. Quick service<br />
fresh sandwiches, salads and wraps.<br />
Midtown <strong>Wilmington</strong>'s Boar's Head<br />
Based fresh deli.<br />
Molly Pitcher's American Grill 4001<br />
Wrightsville Ave, 769-1070. From<br />
bacon-wrapped meatloaf to a fried<br />
green tomato BLT sandwich, Molly<br />
Pitcher’s serves classic American food<br />
with a twist.<br />
Pink Baking Co. 4545 Fountain Dr,<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>, NC 28403, 343-4727.<br />
Breakfast, lunch and dessert.<br />
Platypus & Gnome 9 S Front St,<br />
769-9300. Bi-level restaurant featuring<br />
homey-chic digs lined with art & an<br />
imaginative New American menu with<br />
something for everyone.<br />
PT's Olde Fashioned Grille 4544<br />
Fountain Dr.; 2420 S 17th St A; and<br />
1437 Military Cutoff Rd. Local chain<br />
dishing up burgers, sandwiches and<br />
fresh-cut fries in a laid-back setting.<br />
Jerry’s Food, Wine and Spirits 7220<br />
Wrightsville Ave., 256-8847. Fine<br />
dining in a casual bistro atmosphere<br />
with an ever-changing, creative menu.<br />
Jester’s Café 607 Castle St.,<br />
763-6555. Breakfast, lunch and Sat/<br />
Sun brunch in a casual, fun downtown<br />
location. Quiches, salads, soups,<br />
sandwiches and more.<br />
Oceanic 703 S. Lumina Ave.,<br />
256-5551. Situated on the beach<br />
overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy<br />
fresh seafood, exciting land lover’s<br />
dishes and breathtaking views. Outdoor<br />
seating is available.<br />
Rooster & The Crow 225 S Water<br />
St. in Chandler’s Wharf, 399-4780.<br />
Easygoing restaurant, serving hearty<br />
Southern staples in an industrial<br />
brick building.<br />
RuckerJohns 5564 Carolina Beach<br />
Rd., 452-1212. High-quality food served<br />
up in a fun, relaxing atmosphere.<br />
Burgers, steak, chicken and salads.<br />
Lunch and dinner daily.<br />
Salt Works (The Original) 6301<br />
Oleander Dr., 350-0018. Comfort food<br />
cooked to order. Breakfast and lunch.<br />
Savor Southern Kitchen 3704<br />
Carolina Beach Rd, 769-8112. Serving<br />
up a taste of Southern hospitality, with<br />
fan-favorites like chicken and waffles,<br />
omelets, benedicts, burgers, fried<br />
chicken and more. Breakfast and lunch.<br />
Solstice Oceanfront Kitchen +<br />
Cocktails 1706 N Lumina Ave., 344-<br />
6802. Located inside the Holiday Inn<br />
Resort, serving crab cakes to beef and<br />
vegan burgers to shrimp and grits, with<br />
craft cocktails to tempt the palate, too.<br />
Sweet & Savory Café 1611 Pavilion<br />
Pl., 256-0115. A full menu breakfast,<br />
lunch and dinner restaurant with<br />
dishes made from scratch.<br />
Tavern on 17th 1611 Dusty Miller<br />
Ln. #305, 765-1157. This neighborhood<br />
restaurant and bar has a little<br />
something for everyone. Enjoy their<br />
wide-open air patio, complete with an<br />
outdoor fire pit and heaters.<br />
The Basics 319 N. Front St., 343-1050.<br />
Traditional Southern fare with a twist,<br />
including fried green tomatoes, smoked<br />
pork BBQ, grilled pimento cheese and a<br />
fried chicken BLT. Breakfast, lunch and<br />
dinner daily, as well as Sunday brunch.<br />
The Pilot House 2 Ann St., 343-0200<br />
Overlooking the Cape Fear River with<br />
a large outside deck, this longtime<br />
favorite serves traditional Southern<br />
fare with a contemporary twist.<br />
True Blue Butcher and Barrel 1125<br />
Military Cutoff Rd., 679-4473 and 110<br />
Greenfield St. Suite 114, 769-7010.<br />
From hearty dinner salads to an array<br />
of snacks, shareables and entrees,<br />
dine on the open patio as you pick up<br />
tomorrow’s meal in their butcher shop.<br />
White Front Breakfast House 1518<br />
Market St., 762-5672. Historic<br />
downtown diner—a local favorite.<br />
Biscuits and gravy, corned beef hash,<br />
smoked sausage and eggs any way<br />
you like.<br />
ASIAN<br />
Bento Box Sushi 1121 Military Cutoff<br />
Rd., 509-0774. Asian street food with<br />
a combination of Japanese, Korean,
Vietnamese and Thai dishes. Sushi bar.<br />
Big Thai 1319 Military Cutoff Rd.,<br />
256-6588. Famous for authentic Thai<br />
cuisine. Don’t miss the coconut cake as a<br />
sweet and savory finale.<br />
Blue Asia 341 S. College Rd., 799-0002.<br />
An Asian bistro offering a wide range of<br />
authentic Chinese, Japanese and Thai<br />
cuisines, using the freshest seafood, meats<br />
and vegetables.<br />
Café Chinois 3710 College Rd. #123,<br />
769-3193. One of <strong>Wilmington</strong>'s favorite<br />
Asian-Fusion restaurants, featuring Thai<br />
food and dishes from Vietnam, Korea and<br />
China, served in a stylish setting.<br />
Double Happiness 4403 Wrightsville<br />
Ave., 313-1088. A great mix of traditional<br />
Chinese dishes, including a dim sum<br />
menu, served amid traditional décor with<br />
a formal touch.<br />
Indochine 7 Wayne Dr., 251-9229. Enjoy<br />
the finest Thai-Vietnamese cuisine in a<br />
beautifully decorated environment. Voted<br />
best Asian restaurant 10 years in a row.<br />
Szechuan 132 419 S. College Rd.,<br />
799-1426. For over 30 years, the<br />
longstanding restaurant has been serving<br />
fine contemporary Chinese dining in a<br />
relaxed atmosphere.<br />
Tokyo 101 880 Town Center Dr., 399-<br />
3101. Traditional Japanese with fresh<br />
sushi, diverse noodle dishes, combination<br />
plates, and appetizers.<br />
Umaii Thai Restaurant 8209 Market<br />
St, Porters Neck, 821-8474. A menu rich<br />
with traditional Thai entrees, seasonal<br />
specials, fresh sushi, diverse noodle dishes,<br />
combination plates and appetizers. Sushi<br />
bar and outdoor dining.<br />
Yosake Downtown Sushi Lounge 33 S.<br />
Front St., 763-3172. Lacquered walls and<br />
unique art surround guests as they dine<br />
on sushi and Pan/Asian fare.<br />
Authentic Italian Fine Dining<br />
in Historic Downtown <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910.763.3806<br />
102 South Second St., <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
tarantellis.com<br />
Thank you for voting us<br />
BEST ITALIAN<br />
RESTAUR ANT<br />
7 years in a row!<br />
CAJUN<br />
Bourbon Street 35 N. Front St.,<br />
762-4050. Experience authentic Cajun<br />
cuisine in a uniquely decorated setting<br />
that has the appeal of being in New<br />
Orleans. Try the famous charbroiled<br />
oysters.<br />
FINE DINING<br />
Circa 1922 8 N. Front St., 762-1922. An<br />
ever-changing seasonal menu with locally<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 113
THANKS to all of you that<br />
voted us Best Cocktails<br />
in <strong>Wilmington</strong>!<br />
We’re so glad that the readers<br />
recognize the quality, care and skill<br />
that we put into every beverage. We<br />
promise to continue to deliver the<br />
most unique delicious cocktails in<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>. Cheers!<br />
21 N Front Street, <strong>Wilmington</strong><br />
910-833-7175<br />
blindelephantspeakeasy.com<br />
114 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
sourced seafood and produce and housemade<br />
pasta. Craft cocktails and an<br />
extensive wine list.<br />
East Oceanfront Dining 275 Waynick<br />
Blvd., 344-2513. Award-winning cuisine<br />
accompanied by the sounds of breaking<br />
surf and a soothing coastal breeze.<br />
Enjoy fresh local seafood or grass-fed<br />
beef while you dine under a canopied,<br />
oceanfront deck or inside.<br />
Manna 123 Princess St., 763-5252.<br />
Serving New American cuisine with<br />
European flare, with an emphasis on<br />
the freshest ingredients from local<br />
farmers.<br />
Origins 102 Autumn Hall Dr. #120,<br />
769-0041. Featuring an uptown menu<br />
and atmosphere including a raw bar,<br />
local seafood, pasta and beef classics<br />
from steak frites to a bone-in ribeye.<br />
Patio seating available.<br />
Port Land Grille 1908 Eastwood<br />
Rd., 256-6056. Progressive American<br />
regional cuisine served in a casual yet<br />
elegant coastal setting.<br />
Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse 244 N<br />
Water St., 343-1818. The upmarket<br />
steakhouse is located in River Place<br />
steps away from Thalian Hall and the<br />
Riverwalk, offering river views and<br />
outdoor seating.<br />
FRENCH<br />
Brasserie Du Soleil 1908 Eastwood<br />
Rd., 256-2226. French café with both<br />
patio and inside dining. Pick your own<br />
salad ingredients from a wide selection<br />
of items.<br />
Caprice Bistro 10 Market St., 815-<br />
0810. Authentic French bistro. Elegant<br />
dining downstairs with sofa bar<br />
upstairs and a great martini selection.<br />
Our Crepes & More 3810 Oleander<br />
Dr., 395-0077. Family-owned French<br />
creperie. Authentic homemade cuisine.<br />
The Little Dipper 138 S. Front St.,<br />
251-0433. Unique, fun fondue menu<br />
includes premium meats, seafood,<br />
vegetables, appetizers, desserts and<br />
homemade dipping sauces.<br />
GERMAN<br />
The German Café 316 Nutt St. (at the<br />
Cotton Exchange), 763-5523. Familyowned,<br />
incorporating many recipes<br />
from their native Germany. Wursts,<br />
schnitzels, sauerbraten and more.<br />
ITALIAN<br />
Artisano Pizza & Gelato Grand<br />
View, 7205 Wrightsville Ave, Suite 100,<br />
239-9495. From Turin in keeping with<br />
the Venesia family recipe, enjoy their<br />
16” ultra-thin pizzas with a crust so<br />
light and delicate it’s perfect for one<br />
person to enjoy. Miniature car seating<br />
for kids makes this a great family spot.<br />
Fat Tony’s Italian Pub 131 N. Front<br />
St., 343-8881. Great family-friendly<br />
restaurant. Offers fantastic views of the<br />
Cape Fear River. A mix of Italian and<br />
American fare and a full bar, including<br />
25 beers on tap.<br />
Floriana 2 Market St., 504-0160.<br />
Floriana’s fluently Italian cuisine<br />
features handmade pastas, decadent<br />
cheeses and authentic dishes. Enjoy<br />
dining on a private balcony overlooking<br />
the Riverwalk.<br />
Freddie’s Restaurant 105 K Ave, 458-<br />
5979. Quaint, red-checkered tablecloth<br />
Italian bar and grill with American<br />
chop and steak dishes.<br />
Italian Bistro 8211 Market St., 686-<br />
7774. A local favorite in the Porter's<br />
Neck / Ogden area, offering a variety of<br />
homemade dishes and pizza.<br />
Jay's Incredible Pizza 3600 College<br />
Rd A, 791-7080. Versatile pizza styles<br />
including deep-dish Chicago made by a<br />
seasoned “pie” chef.<br />
Kornerstone Bistro 8262 Market St.,<br />
686-2296. Traditional Mediterranean<br />
fare and wood-fired pizzas.<br />
Nicola’s 5704 Oleander Dr., 798-2205.<br />
An Italian eatery with daily homemade<br />
pasta, sausage, baked breads and more.<br />
Osteria Cicchetti 1125 Military<br />
Cutoff Rd., 256-7476. Serving a variety<br />
of pasta dishes, pizza, salads and<br />
antipasti.<br />
Pizzeria Il Forno 1474 Barclay Pointe<br />
Blvd., Suite 201, 765.1226. Classic<br />
Neapolitan pizza in a wood-fired oven<br />
and pasta dishes served in an inviting<br />
atmosphere.<br />
Pizzetta’s Pizzeria 1144 E. Cutler<br />
Crossing (Leland), 371-6001.<br />
Hottest spot for pizza by the slice,
offering dozens of pizza choices with a<br />
New York flair.<br />
Quanto Basta: Italian Eatery & Wine<br />
Bar 107 N 2nd St., 395-6120. An uptown<br />
family-owned Italian restaurant serving<br />
exquisite authentic dishes.<br />
Roko Italian Cuisine 6801-105 Parker<br />
Farm Dr., 679-4783. Features authentic<br />
northern Italian cuisine. Reservations<br />
are often necessary at this intimate spot<br />
in Mayfaire.<br />
Tarantelli’s Ristorante 102 S. 2nd St.,<br />
763-3806. Charming old-world atmosphere<br />
serving dishes passed down from the<br />
Tarantelli family for three generations<br />
with a large selection of Italian wines.<br />
MEDITERRANEAN<br />
Kipos Hellenic Cuisine Lumina<br />
Station, 1900 Eastwood Rd, 492-2893.<br />
An extension of Giorgios Bakatsias' wildly<br />
popular Kipos brand, enjoy an authentic<br />
Greek menu – including Greek wines, as<br />
well as a convivial, bright white and airy<br />
Mediterranean setting.<br />
Olympia Restaurant 5629 Oleander<br />
Dr #116, 796-9636. Known for using<br />
a wide variety of fresh vegetables and<br />
seafood with a Mediterranean flair in a<br />
comfortable atmosphere.<br />
MEXICAN<br />
Nollie’s Taco Joint 3 Pelican Ln,<br />
707-0455. Casual Mexian eatery serving<br />
tacos, nachos and beer in a funky space<br />
with skateboards on the wall.<br />
Taco Baby 125 Grace St, 399-5629.<br />
Funky, hip spot downtown, serving an<br />
array of unique tacos, appetizers and<br />
delicious margaritas.<br />
Tequila Comida & Cantina 5607<br />
Carolina Beach Rd. #130, 399-1643.<br />
A unique Mexican experience, serving<br />
new and authentic dishes alongside a<br />
Tex-Mex section.<br />
Zocalo Street Food 1474 Barclay Pointe<br />
Blvd., 833-5142. Modern Mexican food in<br />
a stylish, airy space with outdoor seating.<br />
ORGANIC<br />
Epic Food Co. 1113 Military Cutoff Rd.,<br />
679-4216. Sandwiches, salads, noodle<br />
and rice bowls, and other organic and allnatural<br />
selections.<br />
Thank you for voting us<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong>’s Best Bakery<br />
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From the everyday to the extraordinary,<br />
make memories with Apple Annie’s Bake Shop!<br />
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Two Locations:<br />
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<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 115
Lovey’s Market & Café 1319 Military<br />
Cutoff Rd., 509-0331. A health food<br />
store and café with fresh, delicious,<br />
healthy organic food and baked goods.<br />
Tidal Creek Co-op 5329 Oleander Dr.,<br />
799-2667. An organic grocery store with<br />
an inside café offering organic and veganfriendly<br />
options for casual dine-in or<br />
take-out.<br />
SEAFOOD<br />
Black Sea Grill 118 S. Front St., 254-<br />
9990. Mediterranean-style eatery in a<br />
quaint downtown location. Lamb chops,<br />
seafood and vegetarian options.<br />
Bridge Tender 1414 Airlie Rd., 256-<br />
4519. Fresh seafood and certified Angus<br />
beef steaks. Dine on the outdoor patio<br />
overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.<br />
Cape Fear Seafood Company 5226 S.<br />
College Rd., 799-7077; 140 Hays Lane,<br />
681-1140; 143 Poole Rd., 399-6739.<br />
Regional American cuisine featuring<br />
seafood, hand-cut fish, steaks and<br />
chicken served in a relaxed atmosphere.<br />
Catch 6623 Market St., 799-3847.<br />
Wild-caught and sustainably raised<br />
seafood, with a modern approach to<br />
coastal cuisine with an acclaimed<br />
wine list.<br />
Ceviche’s 7210 Wrightsville Ave,<br />
256-3131. A Panamanian cafe offering<br />
Latin-inspired fare and tropical drinks<br />
in a relaxed, vibrant setting.<br />
Dockside 1308 Airlie Rd., 256-2752.<br />
Casual marina spot with an eclectic,<br />
seafood-heavy menu and full bar. Boat<br />
docking available.<br />
Elijah’s 2 Ann St., 343-1448. Casual<br />
American grill and oyster bar<br />
overlooking the Cape Fear River.<br />
Seafood, steaks, chicken and salads.<br />
Fish House Grill 1410 Airlie Rd.,<br />
256-3693. A landmark seafood<br />
restaurant for decades, enjoy waterfront<br />
casual dining overlooking the<br />
Intracoastal Waterway.<br />
Hieronymus 5035 Market St.,<br />
392-6313. Come enjoy locally sourced<br />
seafood and fresh vegetables in a casual<br />
atmosphere - a local favorite for more<br />
than 30 years.<br />
Savorez 402 Chestnut St. #4026,<br />
833-8894. Come enjoy a unique dining<br />
experience drawing from traditional<br />
Latin American inspired cuisine. Fresh<br />
seafood, chicken and grilled pork, tacos,<br />
salsas and dessert.<br />
Seabird 1 S Front St., 769-5996.<br />
Seafood restaurant serving oysters,<br />
fish, a yummy breakfast and cocktails<br />
amid a retro, white-tiled interior.<br />
Seaview Crab Company<br />
Kitchen 1515 Marstellar St, 769-1554.<br />
Fresh seafood over salads in tacos and<br />
in made-to-order po’boys, plus prepared<br />
foods to go.<br />
Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar 127 N.<br />
Front St., 833-8622; 6A N. Lake Park<br />
Blvd., 458-7380. Come watch your<br />
favorite sports team while enjoying<br />
oysters, shrimp, crab cakes, po’ boys and<br />
fresh salads. Casual, family-friendly<br />
atmosphere.<br />
The George 128 S. Water St., 763-<br />
2052. Waterfront dining with a diverse<br />
selection of steak, pasta, salad and fresh<br />
seafood. Dock your boat at the only<br />
dock ‘n dine restaurant downtown.<br />
TAPAS<br />
Mariposa Tapas Bar 1502 S 3rd St,<br />
769-0763. Authentic Spanish tapas in<br />
an intimate atmosphere featuring an<br />
international wine list.<br />
The Fortunate Glass 29 S. Front<br />
St., 399-4292. A wine bar at heart,<br />
the focus is on wines from all regions,<br />
with 50 wines by the glass and 30+<br />
craft beers. Serving a small menu of<br />
fine cheeses, Italian cured meats, and<br />
decadent desserts.<br />
VEGAN<br />
The Green House 1427 Military<br />
Cutoff Rd., 679-4994. A vegan fine<br />
dining experience serving intentionally<br />
sourced fare.<br />
Panacea Brewing Co. 4107 Oleander<br />
Dr., 769-5591. Laid-back eatery<br />
serving plant-based Southern fare,<br />
plus kombucha, local beers and Sunday<br />
brunch.<br />
Sealevel City Vegan Diner 1015 S<br />
Kerr Ave., 833-7196. Low-key, locally<br />
owned restaurant offering a global<br />
menu with lots of vegetarian/vegan<br />
options.<br />
116 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Early risers can combine<br />
a history tour of the city<br />
and their morning jog<br />
with ArcheoRunning.<br />
PHOTOS SOFITEL ROME VILLA BORGHESE<br />
Unveiling Rome's<br />
Hidden Treasures<br />
From Michelangelo's bridges to culinary delights,<br />
uncover some of Rome's best-kept secrets courtesy of<br />
the Sofitel Villa Borghese Hotel<br />
AS THE HEAD CONCIERGE<br />
at Rome's Sofitel Villa Borghese<br />
Hotel and the president of Les<br />
Clefs d'Or, Rome, Agostino<br />
Sità spends most of his days helping<br />
guests fall in love with his home city. And<br />
while he loves when guests report back<br />
how taken they were with the Colosseum,<br />
the Sistine Chapel or Trevi Fountain,<br />
his real joy comes from sharing some of<br />
By KATIE MCELVEEN<br />
Rome's lesser-known experiences: the tiny<br />
restaurants, decades-old shops and hidden<br />
artworks that only locals know about.<br />
Sità's suggestions go beyond a map.<br />
As repeat guests requested his help<br />
building a less touristy itinerary,<br />
Sità asked his contacts across the<br />
city to come up with ways for guests<br />
to gain an insider's look at the city.<br />
“Curating a program of unforgettable<br />
experiences at Sofitel Rome Villa<br />
Borghese is a passion of mine, as I<br />
believe true luxury lies not only in<br />
lavish amenities but in revealing Rome's<br />
hidden beauty to our discerning guests,”<br />
he explains. “Through my work, I have<br />
had the privilege of getting to know<br />
exceptional experts in various fields from<br />
culinary to art, fashion and more, all of<br />
whom hold the keys to the city's bestkept<br />
secrets. Their profound knowledge<br />
and genuine love for Rome have allowed<br />
me to trust their expertise implicitly,<br />
enabling me to create a collection of<br />
local experiences that showcase the soul<br />
and essence of this remarkable city.”<br />
One of those experiences is with<br />
ArcheoRunning, which combines owner<br />
Isabella Calidonna's two passions:<br />
running and art history. Today, she's led<br />
me to Via Giula, a lovely but quiet and<br />
seemingly unremarkable street a few<br />
blocks from the bustling Campo de' Fiori.<br />
On one side of the street, beautifully<br />
dressed locals stand outside a coffee bar<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 117
(clockwise from above) Roman pizza starts<br />
with a crispy crust; Trapizzinos combine the<br />
portability of pizza with traditional Italian<br />
dishes such as chicken cacciatore; At Settima,<br />
the hotel’s rooftop restaurant, cacio e pepe—<br />
Rome’s sublime version of pasta and cheese—<br />
comes with a view of the city.<br />
sipping their morning espresso from tiny<br />
porcelain cups; on the other, Isabella is<br />
directing our attention toward a bridge<br />
arching across the roadway, connecting<br />
two buildings. “Michelangelo designed<br />
that bridge,” she explains. “The Farnese<br />
family wanted to be able to travel<br />
more easily between their two villas.”<br />
That was just the beginning. As we<br />
wove our way through the labyrinth<br />
that is Rome, Isabella, who is an art<br />
historian, certified Rome guide and<br />
running coach with the Italian Olympic<br />
Committee, pointed out places where<br />
Michelangelo had lived and worked.<br />
Along the way, she pointed out tiny bits<br />
of art that I never would have noticed<br />
had I been on my own. The hotel offers<br />
a tour that immerses guests into the<br />
brief, intense life of the 17th-century<br />
painter Caravaggio; for those who prefer<br />
a more modern era, the hotel works<br />
with an art historian who specializes<br />
in 19th-century art and architecture.<br />
Not all of the hotel's experiences are<br />
history based. There are also shopping<br />
experiences at some of the city's most elegant<br />
tailors, shoemakers and ateliers with<br />
fashion influencers, yoga classes within<br />
private gardens and villas, horseback<br />
riding, a guided photo tour and more.<br />
Of course, this being Italy, Sità<br />
included several food-based experiences,<br />
including a blind wine tasting, a gelato<br />
tour, market visits and a street food<br />
tour with local influencer Lauren<br />
Caramico, who owns Davvero Rome.<br />
Our marathon of food began at Roscioli,<br />
where we crunched into square, airy slabs<br />
of Roman pizza heaped with ham and<br />
dribbles of cheese as Lauren explained<br />
the difference between Roman pizza and<br />
pizza from Naples. Next, we skipped<br />
the line outside Dar Filettaro a Santa<br />
Barbara, which serves golden fingers of<br />
fried bacala, or salted cod, to guests sitting<br />
at mismatched wooden tables drinking<br />
dry white wine out of juice glasses.<br />
Hot, steaming and shatteringly crisp,<br />
the bacala was difficult to stop eating.<br />
Before long, we were deep in Trastevere,<br />
the former working-class neighborhood<br />
where centuries-old churches and<br />
markets share the streets with hip<br />
restaurants and bars. Our destination<br />
was Il Trapizzino, where owners Stefano<br />
Callegari and Paul Pansera have created<br />
the Trapizzino, a cone-shaped pizza filled<br />
with traditional Italian dishes such as<br />
118 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
Roman pizza comes with a<br />
huge variety of toppings.<br />
Some of the best gelato<br />
shops in Rome are located<br />
near the Pantheon.<br />
Hotel suites have expansive<br />
outdoor terraces.<br />
Located within the Sofitel Rome<br />
Villa Borghese Hotel, Settimo<br />
looks out over the city.<br />
chicken cacciatore, meatballs and sauce<br />
and even eggplant parmesan. Easy<br />
to eat on the go, the Trapizzinos were<br />
creamy and satisfying, full of flavor but<br />
not greasy or wet. Even better, the wine<br />
list, which is studded with unexpected<br />
varietals and flavors, transformed course<br />
number three of our traveling dinner into<br />
a full-on culinary experience. Throughout<br />
it all, Lauren, whose relationships with<br />
owners and servers at every stop meant<br />
no waiting for tables and the chance<br />
to taste a multitude of dishes, shared<br />
neighborhood lore, offered ideas for future<br />
meals and, at the end of the evening, took<br />
us to a lively bar for after-dinner spritzes.<br />
Though it's located just a few blocks<br />
from some of Rome's most popular sites,<br />
Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese Hotel itself<br />
is a quiet oasis where it was easy to<br />
recharge. Rooms are breezy and bright<br />
and have windows that look out over<br />
Villa Borghese's 100 acres of gardens,<br />
meadows and pathways; each morning I<br />
enjoyed my morning coffee (which arrived<br />
with a few lovely cookies) at a small table<br />
positioned to catch the lemon-scented<br />
breeze. The hotel's restaurant, Settimo,<br />
has an elegant rooftop lounge that offers<br />
views of St. Peter's. The 78-room hotel is<br />
situated within a 19th-century palazzo; it<br />
was fully renovated in 2019 by renowned<br />
French architect Jean-Philipe Nuel.<br />
All in all, the specially curated experience<br />
was a collection of unforgettable,<br />
hidden gems that revealed the true soul<br />
and essence of this remarkable city.<br />
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 119
the last reflection<br />
Smith Creek Park<br />
Watchu’ Doin’ <strong>Wilmington</strong>?<br />
When you love a city so much, you create a podcast<br />
highlighting its charm and community<br />
By DEMIA AVERY<br />
LOOKING BACK, FROM THE DAY THAT<br />
my relative invited me to visit her from Delaware, I<br />
knew instantly that <strong>Wilmington</strong> would be my new<br />
place of residence. It just felt like home. I have been<br />
searching for a place that combines everything that<br />
I love in a city. If I want to enjoy an evening out, I can take a<br />
stroll on Front Street to grab a drink or some food. If I want<br />
the stillness of living in the country, I can visit some nearby<br />
farmlands and open fields to take in the fresh air. If I’m in the<br />
mood for shopping, there is no better place to be, from the Cotton<br />
Exchange to charming shops downtown, on Castle Street or in<br />
the Cargo District. And if I’m looking for peace and spiritual<br />
wellness, I turn to the several water views and riverfront<br />
walkways to choose from. For me, <strong>Wilmington</strong> truly has it all. Not<br />
to mention the people, culture and general sense of community.<br />
That admiration quickly manifested into a podcast called<br />
Whatchu’ Doin’ <strong>Wilmington</strong>, which highlights the positive<br />
people, places and aspects of our city. For almost two years and<br />
counting, it has given me the opportunity to learn even more<br />
about this place I adore. I’ve visited, reported on, reviewed<br />
and interviewed some of <strong>Wilmington</strong>’s most notable people,<br />
places and events. I’ve interviewed Chef Keith Rhodes of Catch<br />
Restaurant, Rhonda Bellamy of The Arts Council of <strong>Wilmington</strong>,<br />
Margaret Stargell of the Willie Stargell Foundation, Jim and<br />
Betsy Knowles of ArtWorks and Brandon “Bigg B” Hickman of<br />
Coast 97.3 just to name a few. I’ve also covered events including<br />
the Cameron Art Museum’s Lantern Ceremony, the WILMA<br />
Show, The Azalea Festival, and others.<br />
In all that time, I’ve been immensely impressed by the dedicated<br />
individuals I’ve encountered who contribute tirelessly to the city’s<br />
growth. I also appreciate the rise in recognizing minority-owned<br />
businesses and their valuable contributions to the city.<br />
I’m so happy I’ve planted my feet on this ground…<br />
er, sand…and I’m here to<br />
stay. This isn’t my “last<br />
reflection,” since I still have<br />
so much to discover, and<br />
my story here has only just<br />
begun. Rather, I’d like to<br />
think of the podcast—my<br />
ode to <strong>Wilmington</strong>—as an<br />
ongoing reflection of the light<br />
and joy I see here every day.<br />
And I think that positivity<br />
is contagious, so I hope you<br />
enjoy listening because there<br />
is so much more to come.<br />
Tune-in to Watchu’ Doin’<br />
<strong>Wilmington</strong> on Apple<br />
Demia Avery<br />
Podcasts or Spotify. W<br />
SMITH CREEK PARK PHOTO CARIN HALL<br />
120 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com
<strong>July</strong> / <strong>Aug</strong>ust <strong>2023</strong> | 121
Bring Extraordinary Home<br />
122 | <strong>Wilmington</strong>NCmagazine.com<br />
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