Congratulations to this year’s winners and finalists!
And thank you to all of our readers who voted in this year’s poll.
Special thanks to: David Lorimer, Renée McDonald and Sarah Hagar, who assisted with this project.
Search our database: Browse the Indy‘s Locations Guide for current and previous Best of the Triangle winners.
Goods
Antique Store
Father & Son Antiques 107 W. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 832-3030 • www.swankarama.com
finalists: Everything But Grannies Panties, James Kennedy Antiques, Nomadic Trading Company
Bike Shop
The Bicycle Chain various locations • thebicyclechain.com
finalists: All Star Bike Shop, Performance Bicycle, The Clean Machine
Camera/ Video Store
Peace Camera 421 W. Peace St. • Raleigh • 836-2222 • www.peacecamera.com
finalists: Best Buy, Southeastern Camera, Wolf Camera
Candy Selection
A Southern Season University Mall, 201 S. Estes Drive • Chapel Hill • 929-7133 • southernseason.com
finalists: Foster’s Market, Parker and Otis, The Fresh Market
CD/ Record Store
Schoolkids Records 2114 Hillsborough St. • Raleigh • 821-7766 • www.myspace.com/schoolkidsrecords
finalists: Bull City Records, CD Alley, Offbeat Music
Children’s Clothing Store
The Red Hen 201 Weaver St. • Carrboro • 942-4420 • theredhen.com
finalists: Glee Kids, Moxie Kids, Vert & Vogue
Children’s Toy Store
The Playhouse 702 Ninth St. • Durham • 286-2811 • www.playhousetoys.com
finalists: Ali Cat, Learning Express, The Children’s Store
Comic Book Store
Chapel Hill Comics 316 W. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 967-4439 • www.chapelhillcomics.com
finalists: Capitol Comics, Sci Fi Genre, Ultimate Comics
Consignment Shop
Revolver Consignment Boutique 124 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 834-3053 • revolverconsignmentboutique.blogspot.com
finalists: Classic Treasures, My Secret Closet, The Stock Exchange
Craft or Gift Shop
Ornamentea 509 N. West St. • Raleigh • 834-6260 • www.ornamentea.com
finalists: Cameron’s, Nested, Zola Craft Gallery
Dancewear
Relevé Dancewear 280 Meeting St., Suite 105 • Cary • 854-4442 • www.relevedancewear.com
finalists: CC & Co. Dance Complex, Dance Design, Footlights
Environmentally Friendly Store
Twig 99 S. Elliott Road • Chapel Hill • 929-8944 • www.twigliving.com
finalists: Scrap Exchange, Vert & Vogue, Whole Foods Market
Florist
North Raleigh Florist 7457 Six Forks Road • Raleigh • 847-3381 • www.northraleighfloristinc.com
finalists: Fallon’s, Ninth Street Flowers, University Florist and Gift Shop
Garden Store
Logan Trading Company 707 Semart Drive • Raleigh • 1-866-906-8141 • www.logantrd.com
finalists: Fifth Season Gardening Co., Southern States, Stone Brothers & Byrd
Jewelry Store in Durham County
Hamilton Hill Jewelry 905 W. Main St. • Durham • 683-1474 • www.hamiltonhilljewelry.com
finalists: Atelier N, Jewelsmith, Light Years Jewelry
Jewelry Store in Orange/ Chatham County
Goldworks 201 S. Estes Drive • Chapel Hill • 932-1771 • www.goldworks-nc.com
finalists: Light Years Jewelry, Wentworth & Sloan Jewelers Inc., William Travis Jewelry
Jewelry Store in Wake County
Bailey’s Fine Jewelry 415 Daniels St. • Raleigh • 829-7337 • www.baileybox.com
finalists: Jared’s, Jolly’s Jewelers and Silversmiths, Light Years Jewelry
Local Bookstore
The Regulator Bookshop 720 Ninth St. • Durham • 286-2700 • www.regulatorbookshop.com
finalists: Flyleaf Books, Nice Price Books, Quail Ridge Books & Music
Local Hardware Store in Durham County
Triangle True Value 1700 E. N.C. Highway 54 • Durham • 544-1711 • www.triangletruevalue.com
finalists: Barnes Supply Company, Public Hardware, Stone Brothers & Byrd
Local Hardware Store in Orange/ Chatham County
Fitch Lumber 309 N. Greensboro St. • Carrboro • 942-3153 • fitchlumber.com
finalists: Ace Hardware, Dual Supply, Pope’s True Value Hardware
Local Hardware Store in Wake County
Ace Hardware various locations • www.acehardware.com
finalists: B&W Hardware, Briggs Hardware, Burke Brothers Hardware
Local Moving Company
TROSA 1820 James St. • Durham • 419-1059 • www.trosainc.org
finalists: Chapel Hill Moving Company, Two Men and a Truck
Local Store to Buy Lingerie
Adam & Eve 6400 Fayetteville Road • Durham • 572-9922 • www.adamevestores.com
finalists: Cherry Pie, Night Gallery, Priscilla’s
Local Wine Store in Durham County
Wine Authorities 2501 University Drive • Durham • 489-2884 • www.wineauthorities.com
finalists: Hope Valley Bottle Shop, Parker and Otis, Total Wine & More
Local Wine Store in Orange/ Chatham County
A Southern Season University Mall, 201 S. Estes Drive • Chapel Hill • 929-7133 • southernseason.com
finalists: 3CUPS, Chapel Hill Wine Company, Hillsborough Wine Company
Local Wine Store in Wake County
Seaboard Wine Warehouse & Tasting Bar 802 Semart Drive • Raleigh • 831-0850 • www.seaboardwine.com
finalists: The Wine Merchant, Total Wine & More, Wine 101
Local Women’s Boutique
Vert & Vogue 905 W. Main St. #24B • Durham • 251-8537 • www.vertandvogue.com
finalists: fab’rik, Magpie Boutique, Uniquities
Men’s Clothing
Vert & Vogue 905 W. Main St. #24B • Durham • 251-8537 • www.vertandvogue.com
finalists: Belk, Jos. A. Bank, Nordstrom
Place for Kick-Ass Shoes
DSW 3604 Sumner Blvd. • Raleigh • 792-0710 • www.dsw.com
finalists: Nordstrom, SRI Shoes, Vert & Vogue
Place to Buy a New Vehicle
Leith Auto Centers various locations • www.leithcars.com
finalists: Anderson Automotive Group, Crossroads Automotive Group, Johnson Automotive, Performance Automall
Place to Buy a Pre-Owned Vehicle
Carmax 8520 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 783-9494 • Carmax.com
finalists: Auction Direct, Johnson Automotive, Leith Auto Centers, Triangle Imports
Place to Buy a Scooter
Scooterz Inc. 2020 Hillsborough St. • Raleigh • 832-3585 • www.scooterzinc.com
finalists: Bikers Boulevard, Combustion Cycles, Triangle Cycles
Place to Buy a Sleeping Bag
REI various locations • www.rei.com
finalists: Dick’s Sporting Goods, Great Outdoor Provision Co., Townsend Bertram & Company
Place to Buy Last-Minute Gifts
Cameron’s 201 S. Estes Drive • Chapel Hill • 942-5554 • www.camerons-gallery.com
finalists: Accipiter, Morgan Imports, Nested
Place to Buy Musical Instruments
Music Loft of Carrboro 116 W. Main St. • Carrboro • 968-4411 • www.carrloft.net
finalists: Guitar Center, Harry’s Guitar Shop, High Strung Violins & Guitars
Place to Buy New Furniture (tie)
Ecko 6740 Fleetwood Drive • Raleigh • 781-0081 • www.eckointernational.com
Nowell’s Contemporary Furniture 900 E. Chatham St. • Cary • 467-9224 • nowellsfurniture.com
finalists: Ambiente Modern Furniture, Morgan Imports
Retail Beer Selection
Sam’s Quik Shop 1605 Erwin Road • Durham • 286-4110 • samsquikshop.com
finalists: Carrboro Beverage Company, Peace Street Market, Total Wine & More
Retail Cheese Selection
Whole Foods Market various locations • www.wholefoodsmarket.com
finalists: A Southern Season, Trader Joe’s, Weaver Street Market
Salvage/ Re-Use Business
Scrap Exchange 548 Foster St. • Durham • 688-6960 • www.scrapexchange.org
finalists: Goodwill Industries of Eastern North Carolina, Habitat for Humanity Re Store, PTA Thrift Store
Store to Buy Eyeglasses
Specs Eyecare 8030 Renaissance Parkway • Durham • 572-1200 / 701 Ninth St. • Durham • 286-4426 • www.specsnc.com
finalists: Eye Care Associates, Upchurch Drugs
Video Store
Visart Video various locations • www.myspace.com/visartvideo
finalists: Avid Video, Blockbuster, North American Video
Vintage Store
Father & Son Antiques 107 W. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 832-3030 • www.swankarama.com
finalists: Dolly’s, Roulette Vintage, Time After Time
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Media
College Radio Station
88.1 WKNC (NCSU) www.wknc.org
finalists: 88.7 WXDU (Duke), 88.9 WSHA (Shaw), 89.3 WXYC (UNC), 91.5 WUNC (NPR)
Commercial Radio Station
105.1 G105 www.g105.com
finalists: 96.1 WBBB, 100.7 WRVA, 101.5 WRAL
Example of Media Overkill
Tiger Woods scandal
finalists: Bob & the Showgram, CNN, Fox News Network, John Edwards and his affair
Local Blog
Bull City Rising www.bullcityrising.com
finalists: Carpe Durham; Goodnight, Raleigh!; New Raleigh
Local Television Personality
Greg Fishel, WRAL
finalists: Bill Leslie, WRAL; David Crabtree, WRAL; Tisha Powell, WTVD
Radio DJ
Bob Dumas aka Bob & the Showgram, 105.1 www.bobandtheshowgram.com
finalists: Kitty Kinnin, 100.7; Michael Jones aka DJ Ones, 88.1; Salt and Demetri the Greek, 96.1
[page]
Music & Clubs
Bartender in Durham County
Scott Ritchie, Whiskey 347 W. Main St. • Durham • 682-6191 • www.whiskeydurham.com
finalists: Dain, Dain’s Place; Kym Register, The Pinhook; Laurabelle, Watts Grocery; Lisa Fisher, Steel Blue
Bartender in Orange/ Chatham County
Lee Waters, Orange County Social Club 108 E. Main St. • Carrboro • 933-0669 • www.orangecountysocialclub.com
finalists: Gary Crunkleton, The Crunkleton; John Bowman, Bowbarr; Rick Paolo, Lantern
Bartender in Wake County
Bobby Covais, The Raleigh Times Bar 14 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 833-0999 • www.raleightimesbar.com
finalists: Andrea Campoli, Piper’s Tavern (previously Blinco’s Restaurant for 12 years); Jay Winfrey, Raleigh Times Bar; Sandra Barrows, Landmark; Schmitty, The Borough
Blues Band
The Bleumatics www.myspace.com/bleumatics
finalists: Crossover Blues Band, Will McFarlane, Windy City Slim & the Sunnyland Rhythm Kings
Hip-Hop Act
The Beast www.myspace.com/thebeastreality
finalists: Crash, Inflowential, Kooley High, Little Brother
Jazz Band
Brian Horton Trio www.myspace.com/brianhortonmusic
finalists: Peter Lamb and The Wolves, The Beast, Will McBride Trio
New Band
SWASO www.myspace.com/swasomusic
finalists: Free Electric State, Old Bricks, The Beast, Veelee
Rock Band
Red Collar www.redcollarmusic.com
finalists: Hammer No More the Fingers, Max Indian, The Love Language
Roots/ Country Band
The Dune Dogs www.thedunedogs.com
finalists: Carolina Chocolate Drops, Chatham County Line, Megafaun
Club DJ
DJ Grant www.facebook.com/djgrantmusic
finalists: Chris Corsello; DJ Joey, Legends; DJ Lukester, Capital Cabaret; DJ Pez; Tony Lopez, P.T’s Grille
Dance Club
Legends 330 W. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 831-8888 • www.legends-club.com
finalists: Cashmere, Solas, Steel Blue
Dive Bar
The Green Room 1108 Broad St. • Durham • 286-2359 • ww.myspace.com/greenroomdurham
finalists: DIVEbar Raleigh, Slim’s, The Cave
Gay Bar
Legends 330 W. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 831-8888 • www.legends-club.com
finalists: Flex, Steel Blue, The Pinhook
Jukebox
Orange County Social Club108 E. Main St. • Carrboro • 933-0669 • www.orangecountysocialclub.com
finalists: Reservoir, Slim’s, The Green Room
Karaoke
Michael Dean’s Seafood Grill 6004 Falls of Neuse Road • Raleigh • 790-9992 • www.michaeldeans.com
finalists: Bub O’Malley’s, Goodfellows, Napper Tandy’s Irish Pub, The Tavern
Lesbian Bar
Steel Blue 1426 S. Miami Blvd. • Durham • 596-5876 • www.clubsteelblue.com
finalists: Legends, Recovery Room, The Pinhook
Neighborhood Bar in Durham County
The Federal 914 W. Main St. • Durham • 680-8611
finalists: Dain’s Place, The Pinhook, Whiskey
Neighborhood Bar in Orange/ Chatham County
Orange County Social Club 108 E. Main St. • Carrboro • 933-0669 • www.orangecountysocialclub.com
finalists: The Station at Southern Rail, The Wooden Nickel, Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom
Neighborhood Bar in Wake County
Raleigh Times Bar 14 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 833-0999 • www.raleightimesbar.com
finalists: Foundation, Michael Dean’s Seafood Grill, The Borough
Open Mic
The Broad Street Cafe 1116 Broad St. • Durham • 416-9707 • www.thebroadstreetcafe.com
finalists: Deep South the Bar, Jack Sprat Café, Papa Mojo’s Roadhouse, The Black Flower
Outdoor Music Venue
Koka Booth Amphitheatre at Regency Park 101 Wilkinson Ave. • Cary • 462-2025 • www.boothamphitheatre.com
finalists: American Tobacco, North Carolina Museum of Art, Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek
Place to Chill
Isaac Hunter’s Oak City Tavern 112 Fayetteville St. • Raleigh • 526-0060 • www.huntersoakcity.com
finalists: Dain’s Place, Raleigh Times Bar, Whiskey
Place to Hear Country or Bluegrass
The Pour House Music Hall 224 S. Blount St. • Raleigh • 821-1120 • www.the-pour-house.com
finalists: Berkeley Cafe, Cat’s Cradle, The Longbranch of Raleigh
Place to Hear Hip-Hop
Cat’s Cradle 300 E. Main St. • Carrboro • 967-9053 • www.catscradle.com
finalists: Dolce, The Pour House Music Hall
Place to Hear Jazz
Bogart’s American Grill 510 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 832-1122 • www.bogartsamericangrill.com
finalists: Beyú Caffé, The Broad Street Cafe, Whiskey
Place to Hear Rock ‘n’ Roll
Cat’s Cradle 300 E. Main St. • Carrboro • 967-9053 • www.catscradle.com
finalists: Lincoln Theatre, Local 506, The Pour House Music Hall
Place to Salsa Dance
Red Room 510 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 835-1322 • www.redroomraleigh.com
finalists: Carmen’s Cuban Café, Cuban Revolution, Spice Street
Place to See Music Before 10 p.m.
The Broad Street Cafe 1116 Broad St. • Durham • 416-9707 • www.thebroadstreetcafe.com
finalists: American Tobacco, Cat’s Cradle, The Cave
Place to Shoot Pool
The Green Room 1108 Broad St. • Durham • 286-2359 • ww.myspace.com/greenroomdurham
finalists: Bailey’s Pub and Grille, Speakeasy at Tyler’s Taproom, The Tavern
Sports Bar
Tobacco Road Sports Cafe 222 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 832-3688 • tobaccoroadsportscafe.com
finalists: Carolina Ale House, Hi5, Satisfaction Restaurant & Bar
Strip Club
The Men’s Club 3210 Yonkers Road • Raleigh • 250-0910 • www.vcgh.com/TheMensClubOfRaleighNC.aspx
finalists: Capital Cabaret, Pure Gold, Teasers Mens Club
Upscale Bar
Whiskey 347 W. Main St. • Durham • 682-6191 • www.whiskeydurham.com
finalists: Lantern, Revolution, Solas
[page]
Out & About
Art Gallery
Artspace 201 E. Davie St. • Raleigh • 821-2787 • www.artspacenc.org
finalists: Nasher Museum of Art, North Carolina Museum of Art, Somerhill Gallery
Bakery
Guglhupf 2706 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd. • Durham • 401-2600 • www.guglhupf.com
finalists: La Farm Bakery, Mad Hatter Bakeshop and Café, Weaver Street Market
Barista
Casey Porn, The Morning Times 10 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 836-1204 • www.morningtimes-raleigh.com
finalists: David Chapman, Bean Traders; Miles Murray, Open Eye Café; Sumer Mishue, Parker and Otis
Bloody Mary
Raleigh Times Bar 14 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 833-0999 • www.raleightimesbar.com
finalists: Acme Food & Beverage Co., NoFo, Piedmont
Coffee Shop in Durham County
Bean Traders 249 W. N.C. Highway 54 • Durham • 484-2499 • www.beantraderscoffee.com
finalists: Beyú Caffé, Joe Van Gogh, Parker and Otis
Coffee Shop in Orange/ Chatham County
Open Eye Café 101 S. Greensboro St. • Carrboro • 968-9410 • www.openeyecafe.com
finalists: 3CUPS, Caffé Driade, Cup A Joe
Coffee Shop in Wake County
The Morning Times 10 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 836-1204 • www.morningtimes-raleigh.com
finalists: café helios, Cup A Joe, Starbucks, The Third Place
Draft Beer Selection
Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom 324 Blackwell St. • Durham • 433-0345 • www.tylerstaproom.com
finalists: Flying Saucer, Milltown, Tribeca Tavern
Ethnic Market
Grand Asia Market 1253 Buck Jones Road • Cary • 468-2988 • www.grandasiamarket.com
finalists: Asia Market, Compare Foods, Neomonde
Indoor or Outdoor Sports Venue
Durham Bulls Athletic Park 409 Blackwell St. • Durham • 688-1338 • www.durhambulls.com
finalists: Cameron Indoor Stadium, Dean E. Smith Center, RBC Center
Live Theater
Durham Performing Arts Center 123 Vivian St. • Durham • 680-2787 • www.dpacnc.com
finalists: Manbites Dog Theater, PlayMakers Repertory Company, Progress Energy Center/ Broadway Series South
Local Brewery
Big Boss Brewing Company 1249 Wicker Drive • Raleigh • 834-0045 • www.bigbossbrewing.com
finalists: Carolina Brewery, LoneRider Brewing Company, Triangle Brewing Company
Local Trivia Night
Bull McCabes Irish Pub 427 W. Main St. • Durham • 682-3061 • www.bullmccabesirishpub.com
finalists: Flying Saucer, James Joyce, Tir na nOg Irish Pub & Restaurant
Margarita
Dos Taquitos/ Dos Taquitos Centro 5629 Creedmoor Road • Raleigh • 787-3373 / 106 S. Wilmington St. • Raleigh • 835-3593 • www.dostaquitosnc.com
finalists: Dos Perros, El Rodeo, Margaret’s Cantina
Martini Selection
Bogart’s American Grill 510 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 832-1122 • www.bogartsamericangrill.com
finalists: East End Oyster & Martini Bar, Revolution, Whiskey
Place for a Blind Date
The Raleigh Times Bar 14 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 833-0999 • www.raleightimesbar.com
finalists: Caffé Driade, Six Plates Wine Bar, Tir na nOg Irish Pub & Restaurant
Place to Buy Erotic Gifts
Cherry Pie 1819 Fordham Blvd. • Chapel Hill • 928-0499 • www.cherrypieonline.com
finalists: Adam & Eve, Frisky Business Boutique, Priscilla’s
Place to Watch International Soccer
The Italian Pizzeria III (IP3) 508 W. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 968-4671 • italianpizzeria3.com
finalists: Bull McCabes Irish Pub, James Joyce, Tir na nOg Irish Pub & Restaurant
Place to Watch Monday Night Football
Hi5 510 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 834-4335 • www.hi5raleigh.com
finalists: Ba-Da Wings, Carolina Ale House, Tobacco Road Sports Cafe
Place to Watch Televised ACC Basketball in Durham County
Satisfaction Restaurant & Bar 905 W. Main St. • Durham • 682-7397 • www.satisfactionrestaurant.com
finalists: Carolina Ale House, Dain’s Place, Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom
Place to Watch Televised ACC Basketball in Orange/ Chatham County (tie)
Orange County Social Club 108 E. Main St. • Carrboro • 933-0669 • www.orangecountysocialclub.com
Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery 100 E. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 929-8676 • www.topofthehillrestaurant.com
finalists: Carolina Brewery, Four Corners
Place to Watch Televised ACC Basketball in Wake County
Tobacco Road Sports Cafe 222 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 832-3688 • tobaccoroadsportscafe.com
finalists: Ba-Da Wings, Carolina Ale House, Hi5
Theater to See an Independent Film
The Carolina Theatre 309 W. Morgan St. • Durham • 560-3030 • www.carolinatheatre.org
finalists: Chelsea Theater, Galaxy Cinema, The Rialto
[page]
Services
Acupuncture
Center for Chiropractic & Wellness 8300 Health Park, Suite 133 • Raleigh • 845-3280 • www.carolinachirowellness.com
finalists: Remedy Clinic, Triangle Acupuncture Clinic, Heartline Center for Natural Healing
Auto Service
Pinnacle Automotive Service 4808 Hargrove Road • Raleigh • 828-3113 • www.bimmercare.com
finalists: Chapel Hill Tire Car Care Center, Triangle Imports, Ultimate Auto Body Center
Barber Shop
Man-Mur Barber Shop 2708 Hillsborough St. • Raleigh • 832-4170
finalists: Friendly Barber Shop, Professional Barber Shop, Sport Clips
Bed & Breakfast
King’s Daughters Inn 204 N. Buchanan Blvd. • Durham • 354-7000 • www.thekingsdaughtersinn.com
finalists: Arrowhead Inn, Oakwood Inn Bed & Breakfast, The Fearrington House Country Inn
Chiropractic
Center for Chiropractic & Wellness 8300 Health Park, Suite 133 • Raleigh • 845-3280 • www.carolinachirowellness.com
finalists: Dr. Chas Gaertner, N.C. Chiropractic; Dr. Molly Hall, Active Chiropractic; Dr. Rick Florez and Dr. Elizabeth Pagano, Chiropractic Café
Dance Studio
Ninth Street Dance 1920 Perry St. • Durham • 286-6011 • www.ninthstreetdance.com
finalists: Academy for the Performing Arts, Barriskill Dance Theatre School, CC & Co. Dance Complex
Day Care
Kids R Kids www.kidsrkids.com
finalists: Academy for the Performing Arts, Bright Horizons, KIN, Spanish for Fun!
Day Spa
BodyLase Skin Spa 501 Keisler Drive • Cary • 256-8674 • www.getbodylase.com
finalists: Bella Trio Day Spa, Skin Sense, The Umstead Hotel and Spa
Dentist
Sunrise Dental 1009 Spring Forest Road • Raleigh • 878-0055 • www.dinahvice-sunrisedental.com
finalists: Dr. Mark Zurawel, Dr. Scott M. Donner, Ellis Family Dentistry
Dry Cleaner
Brothers Cleaners various locations • www.brotherscleaners.com
finalists: A Cleaner World, Dry Clean Warehouse, Medlin-Davis Cleaners
Electrician
Brad Bonneville, Bonneville Electric Carrboro • 260-5493 • www.bonneville-electric.com
finalists: Chesley Electric, Kings Brothers Electric Co., Mark Harrison Electri-Safe, Michael Kinney
Family Doctor
Carrboro Family Medicine 610 Jones Ferry Road, Suite 102 • Carrboro • 929-1747 • www.carrborofamilymedicine.net
finalists: Blue Ridge Family Physicians, The Family Doctor, Triangle Family Practice
Green Architect
SfL+a Architects 333 Fayetteville St., Suite 225 • Raleigh • 573-6350 • www.sfla-architects.com
finalists: Blunden Studio, Ellen Cassilly Architect Inc., Vincent Whitehurst
Green House-Cleaning Service
Triangle Green Cleaning 3749 Benson Drive • Raleigh • 801-8588 • www.trianglegreencleaning.com
finalists: Carpe Diem Cleaning, Squeaky Green Cleaning, The Cleaning Authority
Gym/ Health Club
YMCA various locations • www.ymca.net
finalists: Gold’s Gym, Lifestyle Family Fitness, O2 Fitness
Hair Salon in Durham County
Posh The Salon 610 W. Main St. #101 • Durham • 683-2109 • www.poshthesalon.com
finalists: Rock Paper Scissors Salon and Gallery, The Garden Salon, Wavelengths Salon
Hair Salon in Orange/ Chatham County
Moshi Moshi 416 W. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 933-1272 • moshimoshimeanshello.com
finalists: Mina’s Studio, Syd’s Hair Shop, The Beehive Hair Salon
Hair Salon in Wake County
Marigold Parlour 10 W. Franklin St., Suite 150 • Raleigh • 833-0146 • www.marigoldparlour.com
finalists: Blo, Haircolorxperts, Salon Blu
Hotel in Durham County
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club 3001 Cameron Blvd. • Durham • 490-0999 • www.washingtondukeinn.com
finalists: Doubletree Guest Suites, Hilton, King’s Daughters Inn, Marriott
Hotel in Orange/ Chatham County
The Carolina Inn 211 Pittsboro St. • Chapel Hill • 933-2001 • www.carolinainn.com
finalists: Siena Hotel, The Fearrington House Country Inn, The Franklin Hotel
Hotel in Wake County
The Umstead Hotel and Spa 100 Woodland Pond Drive • Cary • 447-4000 • www.theumstead.com
finalists: Embassy Suites, Marriott, Renaissance Raleigh North Hills, Sheraton
HVAC
ARS/ Rescue Rooter 1-888-762-7752 • www.ars.com
finalists: Boer Brothers Heating & Cooling, Comfort Engineers, Newcomb & Company
Landscape Company
TROSA 1820 James St. • Durham • 419-1059 • www.trosainc.com
finalists: Bailey’s Landscaping, Bland Landscaping Co. Inc., Brickman Group
Local Pet Specialty Store
Phydeaux 400-A1 S. Elliott Road • Chapel Hill • 960-3606 • phydeauxpets.com
finalists: Barnes Supply Company, PetSmart, Unleashed
Nail Salon
Lee Spa Nails 8 Triangle locations • leespanails.com
finalists: Mani Pedi Spa Nails, Mina’s Studio, Posh The Salon
Optometrist
Eye Care Associates various locations • www.eyecareassociatesnc.com
finalists: Carrboro Family Vision, Chapel Hill Eye Care, Eye Care Center, Triangle Eye Physicians
Pet Sitting Service
Pet Comfort and Care, Inc. 8041 Allyns Landing Way • Raleigh • 272-0467 • www.petcomfortandcare.com
finalists: All Breed Care, Cindy’s Pet Sitting Services, Peak City Puppy
Pilates Studio
Spira Pilates Studio 118 E. Main St., Suite 211 • Carrboro • 260-4817 • spirapilates.com
finalists: InsideOut Body Therapies, The Studio @ Hargett, Triangle Pilates & Cary Yoga Center
Place for Holistic Medicine
Center for Chiropractic & Wellness 8300 Health Park, Suite 133 • Raleigh • 845-3280 • www.carolinachirowellness.com
finalists: Duke Integrative Medicine, Remedy Clinic, The Center: Natural Health Specialists
Place to Board Your Pet
Sunny Acres Pet Resort 5908 U.S. Highway 70 West • Durham • 383-4238 • www.sunnyacrespetresort.com
finalists: Camp Bow Wow, Doggie Spa & Daycare, The Animal Hospital of Carrboro
Place to Entertain Kids
Marbles Kids Museum 201 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 834-4040 • www.marbleskidsmuseum.org
finalists: Frankie’s Fun Park, Monkey Joe’s, North Carolina Museum of Life and Science
Place to Get Pierced
Blue Flame Tattoo 710 W. Peace St. • Raleigh • 755-3355 • www.blueflametattoo.com
finalists: Dogstar Tattoo, Glenn’s Tattoo Service, (pro•gress) BODY PIERCING
Place to Pamper Your Pet
Phydeaux 400-A1 S. Elliott Road • Chapel Hill • 960-3606 • phydeauxpets.com
finalists: Doggie Spa & Day Care, Gourmutt’s Bakery, PetSmart
Plumber
Sparrow & Sons Plumbing & Heating 305 W. Weaver St. • Carrboro • 942-5171 • www.sparrowplumbing.com
finalists: Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, Brown Brothers, Carrboro Plumbing Inc.
Real Estates Agency
Fonville Morisey various locations • www.fmrealty.com
finalists: Coldwell Banker, Prudential Carolinas Realty, Urban Durham Realty
Roofing Company
Baker Roofing517 Mercury St. • Raleigh • 828-2975 • www.bakerroofing.com
finalists: Pickard Roofing Co., Roofcrafters
Summer Camp
Kids R Kids www.kidsrkids.com
finalists: Academy for the Performing Arts, Camp Kanata, YMCA
Tailor Shop
Lee’s Tailor Shop 5535 Western Blvd. • Raleigh • 233-0708
finalists: Levi’s Tailor Shop, Oriental Tailors, Wang’s Tailor Shop
Tattoo Studio
Blue Flame Tattoo 710 West Peace St. • Raleigh • 755-3355 • www.blueflametattoo.com
finalists: Dogstar Tattoo, Glenn’s Tattoo Service, Phoenix Tattoo
Veterinarian
The Animal Hospital of Carrboro 112 W. Main St.• Carrboro • 967-9261 • www.theanimalhospital.biz
finalists: Carrboro Plaza Veterinary Clinic, Park Veterinary Hospital, Triangle Veterinary Hospital
Yoga Studio
Franklin Street Yoga Center 123 W. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 929-0414 • franklinstyoga.com
finalists: Blue Lotus Yoga, Carrboro Yoga Company, Open Door Yoga Studio
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Wine & Dine
African
The Palace International 1104 Broad St. • Durham • 416-4922 • www.thepalaceinternational.com
finalists: Abyssinia Ethiopian Restaurant, Queen of Sheba
Appetizer
Red Room 510 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 835-1322 • www.redroomraleigh.com
finalists: Lantern, Magnolia Grill, Sono
Bagels
Bruegger’s Bagels various locations • www.brueggers.com
finalists: Bagels on the Hill, New York Bagel & Deli, Panera Bread, The Morning Times
Bang for Your Buck Restaurant
Hi5 510 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 834-4335 • www.hi5raleigh.com
finalists: Chubby’s Tacos, Cosmic Cantina, Toast
Bar Food
The Raleigh Times Bar 14 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 833-0999 • www.raleightimesbar.com
finalists: Hi5, The Federal, Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom
Barbecue
The Pit 328 W. Davie St. • Raleigh • 890-4500 • www.thepit-raleigh.com
finalists: Allen & Son, The Barbecue Joint, The Q Shack
Breakfast
Elmo’s Diner 776 Ninth St. • Durham • 416-3823 • elmosdiner.com
finalists: Brigs, Parker and Otis, The Flying Biscuit Cafe
Burger in Durham County
Only Burger www.onlyburger.com
finalists: Char-Grill, Dain’s Place, The Federal
Burger in Orange/ Chatham County
BUNS 107 N. Columbia St. • Chapel Hill • 240-4746 • bunsofchapelhill.com
finalists: Acme Food & Beverage Co., PT’s Olde Fashioned Grille, Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom
Burger in Wake County
Char-Grill 618 Hillsborough St. • Raleigh • 821-7636 • www.chargrillusa.com
finalists: Five Guys, MoJoe’s Burger Joint, The Raleigh Times Bar
Business Lunch
Toast 345 W. Main St. • Durham • 683-2183 • toast-fivepoints.com
finalists: MEZ, Sitti, Watts Grocery
Caribbean
Bahama Breeze 3309 Wake Forest Road • Raleigh • 872-6330 • www.bahamabreeze.com
finalists: Cuban Revolution, Jamaica Jamaica, Solomon’s Restaurant
Catering
Rocky Top Hospitality 1705 E. Millbrook Road • Raleigh • 829-3771 • www.rockytophospitality.com
finalists: Catering Works, Green Planet Catering, Mediterranean Deli
Chef in Durham County
Amy Tornquist, Watts Grocery 1116 Broad St. • Durham • 416-5040 • www.wattsgrocery.com
finalists: Ben Barker, Magnolia Grill; Matt Kelly, Vin Rouge; Scott Howell, Nana’s
Chef in Orange/ Chatham County
Andrea Reusing, Lantern 423 W. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 969-8846 • lanternrestaurant.com
finalists: Bill Smith, Crook’s Corner; Chip Smith, Bonne Soiree; Kevin Callaghan, Acme
Chef in Wake County
Ashley Christensen, Poole’s Diner 426 S. McDowell St. • Raleigh • 832-4477 • www.poolesdowntowndiner.com
finalists: Gayla Bonke, Chatham St. Café & Catering; Jason Smith, 18 Seaboard; Michael Lee, Sono
Chinese
P.F. Chang’s China Bistro 4325 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 787-7754 • www.pfchangs.com
finalists: Neo-China Restaurant, Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant, The Duck & Dumpling
Chocolate Confection
Escazu Artisan Chocolates 936 N. Blount St. • Raleigh • 832-3433 • www.escazuchocolates.com
finalists: Dolly Mama, The Chocolate Door, Twisted Fork
Comfort Food
Mama Dip’s Kitchen 408 W. Rosemary St. • Chapel Hill • 942-5837 • www.mamadips.com
finalists: Elmo’s Diner, Poole’s Downtown Diner, The Pit
Crème Brûlée
Tribeca Tavern 500 Ledgestone Way • Cary • 465-3055 • www.tribecataverncary.com
finalists: Margaux’s, Rue Cler, Ruth’s Chris Steak House
Deli
Neal’s Deli 100 E. Main St. • Carrboro • 967-2185 • www.nealsdeli.com
finalists: Jason’s Deli, Morrisville Deli, Village Deli
Desserts
Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery 2000 Fairview Road • Raleigh • 856-8551 • www.hayesbartoncafe.com
finalists: Francesca’s Dessert Caffe, Magnolia Grill, Twisted Fork
Dumplings
The Duck & Dumpling 222 S. Blount St. • Raleigh • 838-0085 • www.theduckanddumpling.com
finalists: Hong Kong, Jujube, Lantern
French
Vin Rouge 2010 Hillsborough Road • Durham • 416-0466 • www.ghgrestaurants.com/vinrouge/vinrouge.html
finalists: Bonne Soiree, Coquette Brasserie, Rue Cler
Fries
Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom 324 Blackwell St. • Durham • 433-0345 • www.tylerstaproom.com
finalists: Five Guys, Only Burger, The Federal
Greek
Spartacus Restaurant 4139 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd. • Durham • 489-2848 • www.spartacusrestaurant.com
finalists: Mediterranean Deli, Taverna Agora, Taverna Nikos
Guacamole
The Raleigh Times Bar 14 E. Hargett St. • Raleigh • 833-0999 • www.raleightimesbar.com
finalists: Carrburritos, Dos Taquitos/ Dos Taquitos Centro, MEZ
Hot Dog
Snoopy’s various locations • www.snoopys.com
finalists: Neal’s Deli, Roast Grill, The Dog House
Ice Cream
Maple View Farm 100 E. Weaver St. • Carrboro • 967-6842 • www.mapleviewfarm.com
finalists: Cold Stone Creamery, Goodberry’s Frozen Custard, LocoPops
Indian
Sitar Indian Cuisine 3630 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd. • Durham • 490-1326 • sitarindiapalace.net
finalists: Mint, Royal India, Udupi Cafe Indian Vegetarian
Innovative Menu
bu•ku 110 E. Davie St. • Raleigh • 834-6963 • bukuraleigh.com
finalists: Chatham St. Café & Catering, Lantern, Revolution
Irish Pub
Tir na nOg Irish Pub & Restaurant 218 S. Blount St. • Raleigh • 833-7795 • www.tirnanogirishpub.com
finalists: Bull McCabes Irish Pub, Hibernian Pub, James Joyce
Italian
518 West 518 W. Jones St. • Raleigh • 829-2518 • www.518west.com
finalists: 411 West, Bella Monica, Gravy
Japanese
Sono 319 Fayetteville St. • Raleigh • 521-5328 • www.sonoraleigh.com
finalists: Akai Hana, Kanki, Waraji Japanese Restaurant
Kid-Friendly Restaurant
Elmo’s Diner 776 Ninth St. • Durham • 416-3823 • elmosdiner.com
finalists: Milton’s Pizza & Pasta, Red Robin, Twisted Fork
Late-Night Munchies
Cosmic Cantina 1920 Perry St. • Durham • 286-1875
finalists: Cook-Out, The Diner, Time-Out Restaurant
Local Pizza
Lilly’s Pizza 1813 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 833-0226 • www.lillyspizza.com
finalists: Amante Gourmet Pizza, Mellow Mushroom, Randy’s Pizza
Mexican/ Latin American in Durham County
Dos Perros 200 N. Mangum St. • Durham • 956-2750 • dosperrosrestaurant.com
finalists: Chubby’s Tacos, Taqueria La Vaquita, Torero’s Mexican Restaurant
Mexican/ Latin American in Orange/ Chatham County
Fiesta Grill 3307 N.C. Highway 54 West • Chapel Hill • 928-9002 • www.fiestagrill.us
finalists: Carrburritos, Los Potrillos, Margaret’s Cantina
Mexican/ Latin American in Wake County
El Rodeo 2400 Hillsborough St. • Raleigh • 755-9697
finalists: Dos Taquitos/ Dos Taquitos Centro, Los Tres Magueyes, Torero’s Mexican Restaurant
Middle Eastern
Neomonde 3817 Beryl Road • Raleigh • 828-1628 • neomonde.com
finalists: Baba Ghannouj, Mediterranean Deli, Sitti
New Restaurant in Durham County
Dos Perros 200 N. Mangum St. • Durham • 956-2750 • dosperrosrestaurant.com
finalists: Beyú Caffé, Chubby’s Tacos, Cuban Revolution
New Restaurant in Orange/ Chatham County
Butternut Squash 133E W. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 929-8199 • www.butternutsquashrestaurant.com
finalists: Cypress on the Hill, Kildare’s, Neal’s Deli
New Restaurant in Wake County
bu•ku 110 E. Davie St. • Raleigh • 834-6963 • bukuraleigh.com
finalists: Gravy, The Remedy Diner, Tribeca Tavern
Outdoor Dining in Durham County
Vin Rouge 2010 Hillsborough Road • Durham • 416-0466 • www.ghgrestaurants.com/vinrouge/vinrouge.html
finalists: Alivia’s Durham Bistro, Guglhupf, Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom
Outdoor Dining in Orange/ Chatham County
Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery 100 E. Franklin St. • Chapel Hill • 929-8676 • www.topofthehillrestaurant.com
finalists: Crook’s Corner, Milltown, Weaver Street Market
Outdoor Dining in Wake County
Mellow Mushroom 601 W. Peace St. • Raleigh • 832-3499 • www.mellowmushroom.com
finalists: Boylan Bridge Brewpub, The Raleigh Times Bar, Tribeca Tavern
Pasta
Bella Monica 3121 Edwards Mill Road • Raleigh • 881-9778 • www.bellamonica.com
finalists: 411 West, Gravy, Piazza Italia
Pie
Twisted Fork 3751 Sumner Blvd. • Raleigh • 792-2535 • thetwistedfork.com
finalists: Hayes Barton Cafe & Dessertery, Scratch Bakery, The Remedy Diner
Restaurant for Carnivores
The Angus Barn 9401 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 781-2444 • www.angusbarn.com
finalists: Brasa Brazilian Steakhouse, Chamas Churrascaria, The Pit
Risotto
Nana’s 2514 University Drive • Durham • 493-8545 • www.nanasdurham.com
finalists: Piedmont, Pop’s, The Federal
Romantic Restaurant
Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern 330 Hillsborough St. • Raleigh • 829-3663 • www.second-empire.com
finalists: Lantern, Red Room, Vin Rouge
Salad
Whole Foods Market www.wholefoodsmarket.com
finalists: Chatham St. Café & Catering, Lilly’s Pizza, The Raleigh Times Bar, Sweet Tomatoes
Sandwich
Toast 345 W. Main St. • Durham • 683-2183 • toast-fivepoints.com
finalists: Neal’s Deli, Parker and Otis, Sandwhich
Seafood
Squid’s 1201 N. Fordham Blvd. • Chapel Hill • 942-8757 • www.squidsrestaurant.com
finalists: 42nd St. Oyster Bar, blu seafood and bar, Michael Dean’s Seafood Grill
Soup
Toast 345 W. Main St. • Durham • 683-2183 • toast-fivepoints.com
finalists: Panera Bread, The Oxford, Whole Foods Market
Steak
The Angus Barn 9401 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 781-2444 • www.angusbarn.com
finalists: Metro 8 Steakhouse, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Sullivan’s Steakhouse
Subs
Jersey Mike’s www.jerseymikes.com
finalists: Jimmy John’s, Sub Conscious, Subway
Sunday Brunch
Brigs www.brigsrestaurants.com
finalists: Bogart’s American Grill, Humble Pie, Watts Grocery
Sushi
Sono 319 Fayetteville St. • Raleigh • 521-5328 • www.sonoraleigh.com
finalists: Akai Hana, Shiki Sushi, Waraji Japanese Restaurant
Taquería
Chubby’s Tacos www.chubbystacos.com
finalists: Carrburritos, Dos Taquitos/ Dos Taquitos Centro, Taqueria La Vaquita
Thai
Sawasdee Thai Restaurant 3601-107 Capital Blvd. • Raleigh • 878-0049 / 6204-120 Glenwood Ave., Pleasant Valley Promenade • Raleigh • 781-7599 • www.sawasdeeraleigh.com
finalists: Sushi-Thai Restaurant, Thai Cafe, Twisted Noodles
Vegetarian Friendly
Sawasdee Thai Restaurant 3601 Capital Blvd., Suite 107 • Raleigh • 878-0049 • www.sawasdeeraleigh.com
finalists: Irregardless Cafe & Catering, Spotted Dog Restaurant & Bar, The Remedy Diner
Vietnamese
an 2800 Renaissance Park Place • Cary • 677-9229 • www.ancuisines.com
finalists: Banh’s Cuisine, Dalat Oriental Restaurant, Lime & Basil
Waitstaff
Michael Dean’s Seafood Grill 6004 Falls of Neuse Road • Raleigh • 790-9992 • www.michaeldeans.com
finalists: Elmo’s Diner, The Borough, The Raleigh Times Bar
Wine List
The Angus Barn 9401 Glenwood Ave. • Raleigh • 781-2444 • www.angusbarn.com
finalists: Glasshalfull, Six Plates Wine Bar, West End Wine Bar
Wings
Carolina Ale House www.carolinaalehouse.com
finalists: Ba-Da Wings, Buffalo Wild Wings, Wild Wing Cafe
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Wild Card
I spend a lot of time on the street. I eavesdrop at bus stops, people watch and poke around abandoned buildings. But nowadays, most folks’ attention is disconnected from their surroundings. People walk down the street, earbuds plunged into the sides of their heads, faces buried in their phones, fingers pinching and flicking and double-tapping. It got me to thinking that you could grow pot in the planters in downtown Durham and no one would notice.
Which is how the pot question wound up in the Wild Card category, a place for queries that didn’t fit anywhere else. They ranged from serious (Most Courageous Activist) semiserious (Politician You’d Most Like to Have Lunch With) to ludicrous and cheeky (Best Place to Grow Pot in Public, Best Place to Violate the Smoking Ban).
Readers had lots of ideas of where to sow the hemp plant, including the governor’s mansion and the Legislature. Who could blame a lawmaker, having spent the day cutting social programs, education and other essential services, for mellowing out with a bit of the bounty from the legislative planters? Legislators have done much worse. Some of them are even doing time for it.
Weaver Street Market was a finalist probably because it’s known for its progressive vibe that welcomes the area’s free spirits. The gorgeous Duke Gardens won the category, which initially makes sense: The plants would thrive under the dedicated and professional care that has earned the gardens such renown. But the astute master gardeners would immediately spot the pot plants and rip them out by the roots. Much better to sow at another runner-up: Umstead State Park, where they would blend in with the rest of the greenery.
The Best Place to Violate the Smoking Ban elicited an outcry from some readers who thought we were being reckless in suggesting such places could exist. Well, they do exist, thus the hundreds of violations that county health departments have issued since the ban went into effect last January.
The Whiskey won, but technically you can’t violate the ban there because it’s a cigar bar and exempt from the law. Hookah Bliss reveled in violating the ban, so I’m guessing its owners are happy to finally get the notoriety they so deserve.
Readers wanted to have lunch with Barack Obama, but he’s preoccupied these days. They also mentioned John Edwards, but he doesn’t do lunch anymore. Apparently, he mainly makes the bar rounds surrounded by hangers-on or the morbidly curious. He’s been spotted at the Wooden Nickel in Hillsborough and the Federal in Durhamwhere, when he arrives, the Twitter feeds all over town light up.
Think of the Wild Card category as the trinket in the cereal box. You’ve plowed your way through 20 ounces of Frosted Flakesor 200 Best-of questionsand near the bottom, crumb- and sugar-covered, there’s a small prize. A Tony the Tiger iron-on patch. Or the chance to tell us where in those 5,579 acres of Umstead State Park we should be looking. Lisa Sorg
Example of a Waste of Taxpayer Money
Road construction (esp. on U.S. 15-501, 401 Main St., Fayetteville Street, Anderson Road)
finalists: Roundabouts (esp. Hillsborough Street), Wake County School Board
Most Courageous Activist
Joseph Carnevale, creator of Barrel Monster
finalists: Ian Palmiquist, Executive Director of Equality North Carolina; John Schelp, President of Old West Durham Neighborhood Association; Pam Spaulding, Pam’s House Blend
Place to People Watch
Weaver Street Market various locations • www.weaverstreetmarket.coop
finalists: Franklin Street, RDU International Airport, Streets at Southpoint
Place to Violate the Smoking Ban
Whiskey 347 W. Main St. • Durham • 682-6191 • www.whiskeydurham.com
finalists: Hookah Bliss, Jackpot, Slim’s
Politician You’d Most Like to Have Lunch With
President Barack Obama
finalists: Beverly Perdue, John Edwards, Nancy McFarlane
Public Place to Grow Pot
Duke Gardens 426 Anderson St. • Durham • 684-3698 • www.hr.duke.edu/dukegardens
finalists: Weaver Street Lawn, Umstead Park, your house, Pullen Park
Spot to Have a Fender Bender
Interstate highway
finalists: Capital Boulevard; Five Points, Raleigh; Hillsborough Street