Where to wine and dine outside Raleigh this September
Nikos
DURHAM
No passport? No problem. Take your senses on a trip to Greece via a visit to Giorgios Bakatsias’ 16th restaurant (!). Located in Brightleaf Square, the reimagined spot—originally owned by Bakatsias 20+ years ago as Nikos Greek Taverna—operates with a mission of taking “friends to strangers.” Seasoned chef Douglas Rodriguez dishes out an array of classic Grecian fare with a twist centered around fresh seafood—from octopus carpaccio and branzino to mint ravioli, Greek meatballs and saffron rice pudding. Pro tip: Order a specialty cocktail (we rec one with the artistic ice!) to go with your meal, best enjoyed out on the gorg patio. Opa! nikosdurham.com
The Albatross
CARY
The grass is always greener at the newest sip spot in town! Swing by for a drink at this new Downtown Cary bar—raising the par by bringing the golf course to you. Find virtual golf simulators and a stock of equipment fit for both aspiring pros and those simply looking to shoot the wind. And after working up an appetite, fuel up on hot dogs and oodles of other eats without having to make the trek back to the tee shop. Fore! thealbatrossnc.com
Bee Sweet Creamery
APEX
Calling all soft-serve lovers! This newly opened Apex creamery is all the buzz. From the creators of Mama Bird’s Ice Cream, the sweet new experience serves up scoops of the nostalgic dairy dessert. … And whether you’re in the mood for classic chocolate or vanilla, or care to sample one of the imaginative weekly flavors (think coffee and salted caramel), the welcoming environment and inspiring mission are sure to make you melt. Bonus: Sprinkles are always a free-bee! beesweetcreamery.com
Smashed Burgers & Cocktail
HOLLY SPRINGS
Smashed it! At this new smashburger joint, you’ll find every flair imaginable on the classic burger—from a Vietnamese banh mi smashburger to a patty smothered in mac and cheese (um, say no more). Wash it all down with a passion fruit margarita or pineapple Aperol daiquiri at the fully stocked bar, or pop a squat out on one of the two (!) patios. P.S. Don’t sleep on brunch either! Cheesin’ yet? smashednc.com
LaDiDa Wine Bar & Bottle Shop
CLAYTON
Hey, syrah sisters and malbec masters! Whether you’re looking to wine down with a glass or two (or three, no judgment) with your pals or would rather hunker down at home with a bottle and a rom-com, this modern yet cozy bottle shop in Downtown Clayton has ya covered. With a seemingly limitless selection of vinos, in addition to local brews, ciders and vermouth—plus live events and deals every weekend (mimosas, please!)—this homey bar has a plethora of options worth uncorking. ladidanc.com
