I like to feel that tingle in my jaw when I eat my key lime pie, so I will drive 45 minutes from Raleigh to Foster’s solely for their key lime pie. This place really is the essence of a country store, local market, cafe, deli, and overall “neighborhood spot” all in one.

You can immediately feel the Latina-owned influence and multi-cultural embrace upon entering any of their Durham stores. I like this particular one the best because of the little tables in the main area. Their website is really worth a read because of how much they have going on. Name a local coffee shop who has a sliding scale to make local goodness accessible:  it’s Cocoa Cinnamon.

I can see it now! It’s Friday. You attend that HR-mandated team building workshop in ATC’s office space. You crush a workout at the YMCA then devour some pizza and a milkshake for lunch. You swing by the salon to get your hair done, followed by drinks with the crew. To finish off the night, you head to a Durham Bulls baseball game. The best part? It’s all in one place:  American Tobacco Campus!

First of all, the name immediately had my attention. Second of all, the energy is so welcoming, hip, and truly empowering that I just want to sign a lease at this lounge. Whether you're looking for a mocktail that isn’t O’Doul’s or you’re a craft beer baddie, it’s probably at The Velvet Hippo. Go there. Now!

You know those alcohol menus that look like science charts with the ABV, country of origin, and how long it’s been aged? This is one of those places. Ladies, if he says “bUT, tHeY dOn’T HavE BEER at wIne pLAceS” tell him he’s wrong because this is also a brewery. They even have cigars and NA options, so bring your smoker friend and your pregnant friend!