I’ve always had a soft spot for the circus… the magic, the pageantry, the nostalgia of it all. When I heard Sarasota (the Circus Capital of the World) had a new boutique hotel inspired by its high-flying past, I damn near cartwheeled my way to check in.
Cirque St. Armands Beachside, the latest from Opal Collection, sits just off Lido Beach and is a quick stroll from St. Armands Circle (fun fact: this was developed by circus kingpin John Ringling himself). A perfect location and a whimsical theme is a recipe for perfection in my book, but before you start picturing red noses and cotton candy wallpaper, let me stop you right there. What I would have given to be part of the early ideation meetings…
Step right up and let’s get to it. Here’s a deep dive into Sarasota’s showstopping new hotel.
Image: Cirque St. Armands Beachside
The Property
From the time I walked into the lobby, it was clear the property wasn’t going to be a kitschy clown-fest. The design leans glamorous and vintage, featuring velvet drapery, pinstriped columns, golden sconces, and ostrich-feather chandeliers that feel plucked out of the Roaring Twenties.
Circus nods are everywhere, but they’re subtle, stylish, and very Instagrammable: Animal print throw pillows, framed photos of performers training in yesteryear, and even newspaper clippings from the Baraboo News (a nod to the Ringling brothers’ hometown in Wisconsin).
Image: Cirque St. Armands Beachside
The guestrooms are equally well done, yet subdued, featuring a palette of soft greys, whites, and sandy tones paired with bronze and gold accents. I stayed in a king room with beach views, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a sizable balcony overlooking the water. Plus, expect all the best amenities, including plush robes and tasty turndown treats, as well as luxurious soaps and hydration stations on each floor.
Image: Cirque St. Armands Beachside
Food & Drink
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Ringside, was a standout: Floor-to-ceiling ocean views, trapeze murals, and velvet booths tucked behind curtains. But even with all that drama, the food was the real star. I’m still thinking about the char-grilled octopus and the honey-whipped feta, challenged for best bite by the gulf grouper.
Behind the bar (adorably called Midway), they’re shaking, muddling, foaming, even smoking cocktails like they’re putting on a show, all dressed up with garnishes housed in mini carousel-inspired jars. The menu includes fun martinis and variations on classics—like a strawberry Aperol Spritz and a spicy watermelon marg. Rumor has it there’s a great happy hour here for locals and guests alike!
Other tasty surprises may pop up throughout your visit. When I checked in, they handed me a sparkling welcome cocktail with a refreshing popsicle inside, then served frozen fruit by the pool, and offered flavored popcorn in the afternoons.
Image: Cirque St. Armands Beachside
Amenities
The pool area is exactly what you’d want for a laid-back, circus-inspired Sarasota escape. You’re greeted by cheerful yellow striped umbrellas and matching loungers, adorable elephant pool floats, and a cocktail menu with outdoor service. Beach access is right across the street, so it’s easy to bounce between the two.
Ringmaster is the outdoor pool bar that was closed for weather during my visit, but I hear it’ll have boozy gelato, champagne popsicles, and frosé on the menu. Another excuse to return!
Looking for more hotels around the region? Click here.
Nestled in 1,300 acres of forest near Charlotte, the US National Whitewater Center is the largest outdoor adventure center of its kind in the world. Multiple “lands” along the Catawba River invite people to paddle, pedal, hike, climb, run, jump, and play outside. From tot-sized treehouses to Olympic caliber white water rafting runs, this North Carolina facility welcomes outdoor-lovers of all sizes and skills.
“We all have a genetic code to play outside. We want to help facilitate access to an active outdoor lifestyle,” says Ashley Osiecki, marketing manager for the center. “How we do that here is simply by creating experiences whether that’s whitewater rafting, kayaking, or ziplining.”
Connecting to nature looks different for everyone, Ashley says. For some it’s pushing themselves in an organized race; for others it’s enjoying a cold beverage in nature. With the fairly recent addition of the Wildwoods kids area and an off-leash dog section, there are even more points of engagement.
“The hope is that once people immerse themselves in nature and enjoy it, they’ll want to protect the wilderness,” Ashley says.
So why not escape the heat of the city and splash into the National Whitewater Center’s nature playground this summer?
Image: Grant Baldwin
Rafting and Rock Climbing at the National Whitewater Center
The crowning jewel is the 12 million-gallon recirculating manmade river, which sends rafters down rapids of various levels, from Olympic training runs to gentle family channels. Conveyor belts whisk paddlers back to the start, maximizing the fun. For a more relaxing adventure, rent a flatwater kayak or SUP and paddle on the adjacent Catawba River.
Don’t think rock climbing is a refreshing way to cool off? Try the world’s only artificial deep-water solo climbing complex, where you’ll shimmy up an artificial rock wall with a huge pool of water to cushion your fall. For fans of traditional rock climbing, a 47-foot tall sport climbing spire, dozens of top rope routes, and a bouldering area await.
Image: David Jensen
Adventures in the Forest
Bikers, trail runners, and hikers share 40 miles of trails through the woods. Yoga also takes place in the company of pine trees.
Charlotte resident Shanhan McClure takes advantage of the free weekly outdoor yoga classes.
“I did yoga teacher training last year, and would go to support fellow trainers as they taught,” she explains. Shanhan also enjoys kayaking on the lake, and going to the River Jam concerts.
“There are so many various sports and activities. I could go by myself, with friends or with the kids for a family day,” she says.
In addition to over 400 yoga classes and wellness workshops each year, the forest beckons with zip lines, ropes courses and “jumps”—a belay system simulates a short free fall that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping!
Image: Sean Richard
Bring the Kids and Pets
Cross a 700-foot suspension bridge and you’ll enter Wildwoods, a nature fantasyland just for tots, including swings, bridges, and multi-story treehouses. There’s a balance bike course, rope challenges, and yoga classes. The new weekly Little Learners program teaches nature appreciation through hands-on activities.
Tired of hearing “I’m bored” when school is out? Check out the full range of summer, spring break, and holiday camps designed to get kids unplugged and tuned into nature.
The Off Leash area is dog heaven, where pups can frolic in the woods, splash in the pond, and play on the beach. There’s even a dog wash for post-outing cleanups, and a picnic area to hold doggie birthday parties.
Image: USNWC
Fuel the Adventure
The multiple food outlets offer everything from a quick snack to riverside dining. Enjoy a hard-earned post-race beer from the Pump House, which has over forty craft beers on tap.
Kids and pets get hungry too, which is why you’ll find family friendly options in the Wildwoods Cabin, and provisions for pups and their owners at The Barley House.
Image: Chloe Blakemore
Festivals and Events
“One of my favorite things to do is enjoy the summer concert series of live music on the lawn,” says local resident Kim Dawson. “It’s pretty magnificent to enjoy whatever band is there, get some food and drinks, and kick back with the quiet roar of the rapids surrounding you,” says Kim, who visits frequently, taking advantage of over 80 live concerts each year.
From fun 5K races to ultra-marathons and multi-day bike races, the National Whitewater Center hosts over 60 competitions each year. Leisurely events, like the upcoming July 4th and Labor Day celebrations, invite everyone to kick back in nature.
Image: Samuel Martin
Adventure Lodges Around the South
If you’re looking for an active vacation or destination wedding, check out the National Whitewater Center’s adventure lodges.
“Our adventure lodging networks help expand our footprint beyond Charlotte, North Carolina, and they’re located in some of the region’s best outdoor playgrounds. They offer access to some of the best hiking, gravel biking, paddling, and fly fishing across the region,” Ashley says.
North Carolina’s Big Creek Lodge, just north of Asheville, sits amid 250 waterfalls and 40-plus miles of scenic gravel biking.
Middleburg is a National Historic Landmark perched on the Cooper River just north of Charleston. As the oldest home in the U.S., Middleburg’s 323 acres of protected forest and wetlands is a haven for history and nature lovers.
Windfallis a mountain retreat in the bucolic Blue Ridge Mountains straddling the Virginia and North Carolina border. Set in a 4000-foot meadow with hiking trails and stream-fed ponds, guests can rent one or both cabins at this high-country retreat overlooking Virginia’s seven tallest peaks.
Winter Fun
The fun doesn’t end in summer. From mid-November through mid-February, the National Whitewater Center turns into a winter wonderland with 24,000 square feet of ice. Glide on North Carolina’s largest outdoor rink, explore ice trails and free-skating zones, and wander the Winter Trail—a colorfully lit path with suspension bridges. Zipline under twinkling lights, play in an illuminated treehouse, or hike under the stars for magical memories.
Image: USNWC
Planning Your Visit
The National Whitewater Center has dozens of classes and rental gear to inspire you to try something new or hone your skill. Some activities require reservations, so check the website, where you can also buy one-time or annual passes.
What are you waiting for? Go outside and play this summer!
Looking for more summer fun around the South? Click here.
A Lowcountry Boil has long been a staple along the Southern coast, especially around South Carolina and Georgia. This beloved dish (though it may be better described as a whole event) brings together fresh shrimp, hearty vegetables, and smoky sausage in a big pot of seasoned broth often dumped out and enjoyed with fellowship and a few drinks.
Served everywhere from backyard gatherings to fall tailgates and holidays, a lowcountry boil is a surefire way to connect with friends and family in a way that’s both casual and delicious.
Lucas Hanagriff, raw bar manager at Fleet Landing in Charleston, dives into what makes a Lowcountry Boil so satisfying—and, more importantly, how to do it right.
Q: What is a Lowcountry Boil, and what are the key ingredients in the dish?
Lowcountry boil, also commonly called Frogmore stew or a shrimp boil, is boiled potatoes, corn, sausage, and shrimp seasoned with Old Bay. They can be boiled in plain water, but commonly the addition of a beer or two from the nearest cooler adds to the dish. These are the basics of a Lowcountry boil, as other ingredients are commonly added in different kitchens and backyards to the party’s liking.
Q: Is there a certain type of shrimp that works best?
White shrimp are the most common harvest in the waters around Charleston and are what is most used in a Lowcountry Boil.
Q: Do you prefer a specific type of seasoning blend? Are there any other variations that can be used?
Every chef will have their own preference, whether commercially produced or made at home. Although more popular with some neighbors to the north, Old Bay seasoning is a staple and a fantastic option for seasoning a Lowcountry Boil.
Q: Do you typically marinate or pre-season anything before it goes into the pot? If so, for how long?
One thing that makes Lowcountry Boil so awesome is the ease of preparation—it’s a one-pot dish. You do not need to season or marinate any of the ingredients before going into the pot, but it is a necessity to season your water while heating it up. There is a saying among chefs that boiling water intended for cooking should be ‘salty like the sea.’ Sea water has a salinity of around 10%, and this is perfect for seasoning items that are going to cook relatively quickly. In addition, a Lowcountry favorite (or necessity) is the addition of beer and Old Bay to your water prior to adding your first ingredients. One thing that can be purchased or done ahead of time would be parboiling or partially cooking the potatoes: they take the longest to cook, and parboiled potatoes can drastically reduce the cooking time prior to serving the boil.
Q: What’s the key to layering ingredients in the boil for even cooking?
All the ingredients of the Boil take different times to cook when placed in boiling water. Potatoes take the longest, and shrimp take the shortest. If using all raw ingredients (except for the sausage, which is usually cooked or smoked to some degree or fully), we recommend cooking in this order: potatoes, corn, sausage, and finally shrimp. An old school method is to bring the seasoned water to a boil and add the potatoes and cover. Once the water begins to boil again, add the corn and cover. Once the water returns to a boil, add the sausage. Once the water returns to a boil, you can add the shrimp, stir, kill the heat source, and let the shrimp cook for 1-3 minutes.
Q: How do you know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Shrimp do not take very long to cook. And while still delicious, slightly overcooked or perfectly cooked shrimp will set the dish off. Once properly cooked, the shrimp will turn a white/pink hue, with the legs and tail turning red. The meat of the shrimp will go from a translucent hue to an opaque coloring. This can take anywhere from one to three minutes, depending on how crowded the pot is. We like to stir the entirety of the pot one minute after adding the shrimp to get an eye on all ingredients and keep any items from sitting directly on the bottom of the pot atop the heat source.
Q: Any tips for draining the liquid from the pot? Are there any fun uses for it once you’ve separated it from the rest of the food?
Steam pots, or any pot with a basket inside, are your best options for cooking a Lowcountry Boil. They make separating the food from the now broth very easy. Once the ingredients have finished cooking, you can lift the very hot basket out of the boiling water with rags or oven mitts. You can then turn your heat source off and let the broth cool. This broth, or stock, can be used to cook many other things, such as rice and pasta, and can easily be added to sauces or gravy for additional flavors. Commonly, the ingredients are dumped onto a table, seasoned more, and the dinner bell is rung. Friends and family will gather around, picking their next favorite bite from the pile. Be careful, as more hot water will be draining off the ingredients as you enjoy.
Q: Any personal touches you always add to make it your own?
Adding onions is a great touch as they add great flavor and aromatics. This especially rings true if you plan on using the broth for any additional dishes. If you make your own sausage, it would be a great addition. Dipping sauces and condiments are a great tableside addition for Lowcountry Boil, such as melted butter, cocktail sauce, ketchup, lemons, and your favorite hot sauce.
Q: Any tricks for elevating the classic recipe for a more upscale experience?
Creating an upscale Lowcountry Boil can be done very easily, but it can also greatly depend on your crowd. Additions such as mussels, crabs, and crawfish can add seafood diversity, while other vegetables such as mushrooms and onions can be great additions too.
Q: How do you calculate portions per person?
This is usually the hardest question to answer with Lowcountry Boils, as purchased fresh shrimp can fetch a pretty penny depending on your location; all while some guests will eat like birds and others like it’s their last meal. A good starting point is to plan on a pound of raw, unfrozen head-on shrimp per guest (or roughly 1/2 pound of headless shrimp), two regular-sized potatoes, one full ear of corn, and 4-6 small links/pieces of sausage per guest. If your guests are shrimp fanatics, one pound of headless shrimp per person could be more appropriate.
Q: What equipment is needed to prepare it?
The common backyard method requires a propane tank and propane cooker, lighter or flame source, and a large pot with a basket and lid. You can also tackle this dish in your own kitchen with a large pot with a lid atop your stove. You do not need the basket, but you will need a colander to dump the ingredients into, or you will need a slotted spoon to remove the ingredients if you’d like to save the broth.
Q: Any beverage pairings that complement the flavors especially well?
Your favorite light beer is what you’ll see adorned most tabletops while the pile of Lowcountry Boil is still steaming. At this moment, beverages are usually ignored for the first few minutes after a basket of Lowcountry boil has been dumped on a table, though. While cold beer is a staple with Lowcountry Boil, crisp white wines, both still and sparkling, are fantastic pairings. But don’t be alarmed when you see a glass of sweet tea or a Capri Sun from the young’n next to you as this meal can be super fun for kids too!
Q: When is the best time to host a shrimp boil?
The commercial shrimp season in Charleston ranges from June until the end of the year, and any time during the summer on you are likely to hear about a Lowcountry Boil. Recreational anglers are likely to catch a large quantity of shrimp in our local water during this time, but the peak season for catching shrimp comes during the fall months. September–November is when you’ll see many anglers ditching their rods for shrimp poles and cast nets to catch their harvest of large white shrimp. This also happens to be when you’ll hear of the most Lowcountry Boils happening, as the shrimp are most prevalent. It is a great party dish, so it is common around the fall holidays and big sporting events as well.
Q: Anything else you’d like to share?
Lowcountry Boils, oyster roasts, and the like, are meant to be that of a family dinner vibe, including many friends and neighbors gathered around a table having a great time. Food is one of the few languages that everyone speaks, and it is a great excuse for a great gathering. It’s a comfort food for many, and the experience of all diving in together is tethered to the dish by tradition and colloquialism.
The dumping of the pot will produce quite a bit of runoff, so to save your kitchen, this is a great excuse to get out an old plastic or wood table and enjoy the great outdoors. The shrimp can be cooked with the heads on or off. While the heads can add tremendous flavor, they aren’t for everyone. Whether your shrimp are whole or not, we do recommend cooking them with their shells on. The shells can help protect the delicate meat from overcooking. When it comes to peeling a cooked shrimp, the shell wraps around the back, larger part of the shrimp, and meets on the underside of the meat where the legs are. You should be able to grab one side of the legs and basically unwrap the shell from around the back of the shrimp. It does not always work perfectly, but it will remove most of the shell.
From BBQ and live music to ample ways to get outdoors, Austin, Texas has it all! We’re sharing everything you need to know about where to stay, places to eat, and fun things to do in the Texas state capital.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle of the city limits, book a stay at The Wayback. Owned by mother-daughter duo, Vicky Bly and Sydney Sue, this casual boutique hotel is surrounded by Texas Hill Country views while still just being only fifteen minutes from downtown. Tucked off Bee Cave Road, The Wayback feels like stepping into a Tuscan countryside retreat—it’s a secluded oasis where a grove of oak trees provide shade on a warm summer day and eight board-and-batten cottages dot the property.
Each of the cottages are charming—fresh and feminine, yet natural with a touch of vintage—providing the perfect place for some respite after a long day under the Texas sun. Also on property is their farm-to-table café featuring a seasonal menu using fresh, local ingredients, plus their private pool where you can lounge and get lost in a good book under the big Texas sky. The Wayback is a dreamy little escape where time moves a little slower, you can linger a little longer, and life gets just a little bit sweeter.
Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Things to Do
Horseback Riding
There’s really no better way to explore Texas Hill Country than on horseback! Saddle up with Southern Trails for a guided scenic horseback ride around one of Central Texas’ most beautiful ranches. Just fifteen minutes from downtown, both expert riders and novices alike can meander through open green pastures and beautiful oak trees, plus wade with their horses through creeks and past herds of cattle. After your ride, meet Southern Trails’ mini highland cow, Leo!
Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Greenbelt’s 12 miles of trails travel through South Austin, and is the go-to ATX destination for nature lovers. Visitors can hike the scenic trails, bike the rugged terrain, wade in the swimming holes, and go rock climbing, all while soaking in the Greenbelt’s natural beauty and its urban convenience.
Within Zilker Park is one of the coolest pools in all of Texas. Fed from underground springs, Barton Springs Pool is Austin’s ultimate hangout spot. With an average temperature of 68 to 70 degrees, the three-acre pool is ideal for year-round swimming and features crystal clear water that reaches up to 18 feet in depth in certain areas. Adjacent to the pool bathhouse is Splash!, an educational exhibit where visitors can learn about the history and biology of Barton Springs and the Edwards Aquifer which feeds it.
Float the River
Join a group or book a solo excursion to float down the San Marcos River. Relatively close to Austin, the all-day activity is a popular summertime venture for locals and tourists alike. Pack a lunch, some sunscreen, and maybe a change of clothes, hop on your tube and get floating! Note: there are several companies that provide transportation to and from downtown, as well as tubes and other equipment you might need.
Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World and a trip to the city wouldn’t be complete without listening to some live tunes. While there are venues all around the city to catch a show, one of our favorite spots to spend an evening is at Broken Spoke, a Texas dancehall where famed musicians (think: George Strait, Willie Nelson, and Dolly Parton) have stopped by a time or two. While there’s line dancing lessons and no shortage of cold beer, Broken Spoke also has a solid lineup of live music: Wednesday night is 90s country night, and if you’re lucky, they might just play “Amarillo by Morning” to set a true Texas tone.
Get your grub on at this Michelin-starred BBQ joint. Female-owned by Texas native and chef Ali Clem, la barbecue is a Texas BBQ staple with smashing smoked brisket that’s cooked low and slow over Texas post oak for eight hours. Here you’ll find arguably some of the best brisket and ribs in town (we can confirm!), with special blends of salty and savory rubs and throwback dishes inspired by the chef’s travels around the world. Along with the smoked meat, you’ll want to order a side of their potato salad, chipotle slaw, and shells and cheese, and don’t forget the pickles! There will be a line when you arrive, but it’s worth the wait. Insider tip: pre-order on their site and skip the line.
If there is one restaurant you dine at in Austin, let it be Birdie’s. This East Austin spot provides what we consider one of the best and most unique culinary experiences the city has to offer. You will place your prix-fixe order at the counter upon arrival, choose a seat inside or on their outdoor patio, and then experience a traditional, table service-style meal perfectly coursed out from one dish to the next. While the prix-fixe menu changes, offerings we indulged in included a Casarecce-style pasta dish with Sungold tomatoes, parmesan, chili, and basil, the wagyu minute steak with calabaza squash and green tomatoes, and the honey soft serve with peach jam and honeycomb for dessert. Dinner costs $68 per person with upgraded supplemental options available, too.
Inspired by the people, cooking techniques, and flavors of Mexico, Suerte is an East Austin jaunt led by Mexico native and chef, Fermin Nunez. The restaurant is—by our account—one of the best places to pull up a chair in the city. The flavors are fresh and the dishes are divine. From the Suadero tacos made with confit wagyu brisket, the seasonal peaches and feta, and the ceviche de tomate, you really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
This coffee-by-day and beer/cocktail-garden-by-night is the perfect spot to kick back with friends, sip some drinks, work remotely, and listen to live music. An expansive outdoor area, Cosmic has food trucks onsite, plus a variety of beverages to choose from ranging from coffee and beer to cocktails, boozy coffee, frozen drinks, and more. Our menu favorites include the frozen boozy coffee (think: a Wendy’s Frosty with a touch of coffee), the frozen matcha painkiller, and the THC-infused stellar seltzer.
If you think Texas doesn’t have any good tiki bars, think again. Step into Tiki Tatsu-Ya, an underground tiki-themed bar for delicious cocktails and a fun atmosphere. All drinks on the menu are rum-forward, but our favorites include the pearl diver and mai tai. If you’re visiting with a group, go for the large-format cocktails that come in a fun vessel, like the aku aku, which is served in a pineapple with a smoke affect, or the rum barrel which comes out flaming.
Self-proclaimed as a New York-style pizza joint in Austin, Sammataro is a laid-back pit stop slinging out just that: solid New York-style pies. Cooked in a brick oven with minimal flop and chewy crust, Sammataro’s pizza is 16 inches in size and can be paired with Calabrian chilis or housemade ranch dressing for dipping.
You certainly won’t leave this Austin Eastside hang hungry. A neighborhood bakery, cafe, bar, and beer garden, Sour Duck is the perfect place to park yourself all day for brekkie bites, a working lunch, and dinner with a side of live music. Fuel your morning with fresh baked pastries or the XXL breakfast burrito (only five are served per day!), then enjoy a sandwich and bev for a mid-day pick-me-up. The market also sells snacks that are made from locally-sourced ingredients, plus sustainable coffee, craft cocktails, and a killer selection of wine and beer.
A hip spot for locals and tourists alike, Radio Coffee & Beer is everything you could want in an outdoor beer garden. The expansive outdoor space is tree-covered with plenty of seating, an ideal setup for all-day lounging—from coffee to cocktails—and live music on select evenings. If you’re eyeing a caffeinated bev, try the blood orange espresso tonic. Or, go the booze route with the lion’s mane cocktail or a local craft beer. When it comes to bites, there’s some food trucks stationed out back, including Veracruz All Natural, which is widely considered an Austin foodie favorite.
Traditional meets modern at this East Austin Caribbean restaurant. Named after the Canje Pheasant, the national bird of Guyana, Canje pulls inspiration for their menu from the islands in the region. The restaurant is led by pastry chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph, so no matter what you choose for your main course—we suggest the smoked avocado escabeche, beef patties, sweet potato, and Guyanese-style roti— you must order some dessert, too.
If you know Texas, than you know that BBQ (specifically brisket) is the state’s staple. And as BBQ lovers, it was a no brainer on trying the famed Franklin Barbecue for ourselves—their reputation is widely known and for good reason: the brisket and ribs are both incredibly juicy and tender with a good bark. And while these two meats are the star of the show at this East Austin joint, do yourself a favor and order a little bit of everything from the menu. There’s no reservations and know before you go that there will be a wait… but don’t let that deter you. Queue up a few hours before opening (doors open at 11 a.m.) with other BBQ pilgrims and grab a provided folding chair while you wait.
An East Side institution, Bufalina is a pizza and wine bar serving up handcrafted Neapolitan pies with a killer happy hour. Select pizzas and bottles of wine are half off, which is a pretty dang good deal if you ask us. While you might be tempted to fill up on their bread and butter or stracciatella to start, make sure you leave room for a personal-sized pizza and ice cream for dessert.
Start your day off strong with breakfast bites at Paperboy. There’s shareables like the blueberry lemon toll and tasso ham & Gruyère empanadas, plus full-on brunch bites like the migas or the Texas hash, and bowls featuring legendary Paperboy staples like the zesty kale salad. Everything on the menu is great, but as they say…early bird gets the strawberry and pecan pop tarts.
This isn’t your average brewery. Located on a 41-acre ranch, Jester King is a family-friendly spot that offers up a variety of brews, a nature trail, and goat walks with their Nigerian dwarf goats. The brewery specializes in farmhouse ales that utilize local ingredients, and on a hot day, you can enjoy your drink under their covered pavilion and much-needed misting fans.
Bite for bite, Cuantos Tacos is up there with Austin’s best restaurants… and as a food truck, that’s really saying something. Serving Mexico City-style tacos, this East Austin staple was even recognized with a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide. They offer six different proteins to choose from—our favorite being the Suadero—but we suggest ordering one of each, especially since the tacos are two to three bites in size. To amplify your tacos even more, order them costra style, which is a crispy cheese coating on the inside of the tortilla shell.
This is a dive bar we can get behind and for good reason: the retro-style watering hole is unassuming from the outside but really, it’s what’s on the inside that counts. Sure, there’s cold beer on draft, but Nickel City is known for their whiskey selection and cocktail program. Their frozen Irish coffee is one of the best Irish coffees—frozen or not— that we’ve had, and their tropical drinks, like the “whip it good,” we will gladly add to our growing list of must-order cocktails. If you’re feeling hungry, there’s a Detroit-style coney dog food truck on site that hits the spot after a few cold ones.
When you’re internet sleuthing on where to find the best ice cream in Austin, Zed’s appears at the top of every list. The New Zealand-style ice cream is a combination of traditional vanilla soft serve with freshly sliced, all-natural fruit that results in a refreshing and not-too-sweet treat. First pick your serving size and type of fruit, followed by your ice cream base, drizzles, and toppings.
This cocktail and Champagne bar has all the right vibes: the front patio feels like a private garden, the interior is serene, and the back patio houses AllDay Pizza’s outpost. A slice of pizza and a frozen strawberry Aperol spritz? We couldn’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon.
Cocktail lounge meets retro patio bar at Kitty Cohen’s. Lounge poolside with a frozen cocktail in hand and soak in the bar’s Palm Springs, 1970s aesthetic. While the bar itself doesn’t serve food, many local spots pop-up to provide culinary offerings.
Looking for more guides above and beyond the South? Click here.
Summer is full of bold, fresh flavors—but don’t limit them to dips and desserts. Put it in a glass! While sweet drinks tend to get all the love this time of year, there’s a growing trend toward something a little more unexpected: savory cocktails. It’s no longer just dirty martinis and bloody mary riffs, things like pickles, peppers, and tomatoes are popping up in cocktails everywhere.
This Tomato Margarita leans into the savory trend in the best way. Made with a tomato simple syrup, it’s bright, slightly earthy, and perfectly refreshing. If you’re the kind of person who always goes for chips and salsa over something sweet, this one’s for you.
Just picture it: the sun and sand, a drink in your hand, and Jimmy Buffett on blast… this must be the good life. Where the only worry in the world is choosing between a beach or pool day, making sure you lather up with enough sunscreen, and taking the time to soak in the beauty of a sunset.
Paradise found: Welcome to Captiva Island, Florida. Just an hour away by car from Southwest Florida International Airport, Captiva is a barrier island just beyond popular destination spot, Sanibel Island. A bit more quiet and serene, the island is a long and narrow strip of land separating the Gulf of Mexico and Pine Island. While the islands have faced hurricane damage over the past few years, they have steadily built back up to be enjoyed once again as a slice of paradise for both locals and tourists alike.
Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Where to Eat
Seafood, seafood, and more seafood. We aren’t complaining.
You will find many of the island’s dining options right on site at Tween Waters. Have your pick of the sea with options including:
Old Captiva House: Expect an Old Florida atmosphere with a refined, seafood forward menu
Shipyard Restaurant: This dining option is a more laid-back, family-friendly spot that turns into more of a bar scene later in the evening
Crow’s Nest Steakhouse: Tween Waters’ most high-end dining option, landlubbers can enjoy a selection of steaks at the second-story steakhouse while overlooking the Gulf of Mexico
Captiva Crust: Newly-opened at the resort, Captiva Crust is a grab-and-go option for pizza pies
Oasis Pool Bar: Served table-side or from the comfort of your poolside lounge chair, the Oasis Pool Bar is Tween Waters’ very own tiki bar complete with sandwiches, salads, frozen cocktails, and more. A cheeseburger in paradise and a piña colada, anyone?
On the far end of Sanibel Island and just before the Sanibel Causeway is Gramma Dot’s located in Sanibel Marina. Their come-as-you-are approach creates a relaxing, quaint environment with both indoor and outdoor patio dining. Seafood is the name of the game here, with the coconut shrimp and mahi mahi being our favorites. If you’re lucky, you might even see resident bird, Henry, roaming the grounds.
What’s a beach day without a sweet treat afterwards? Stop by The Shack for some fresh, frozen custard and choose from creations aptly named after the area, including the Sanibel Lighthouse, the Periwinkle Perfection, and the Conch Crunch.
Since opening its first location in 2003, the restaurant has been serving up delicious bites beloved by both locals and tourists alike. Some favorites include the Yucatan shrimp tacos which are doused in their one-of-a-kind sauce made from cilantro, garlic, butter, and lime juice, plus the key lime pie for dessert.
Located next to the Sanibel Causeway, Bimini Bait Shack might offer the best water views in the area. It’s relaxed atmosphere is the perfect spot to end your day with a sunset, or stop in for lunch before you head onto the islands. With live music and casual fare, we usually opt for the Key West coconut shrimp and a rum-heavy cocktail. It’s hard to have a bad time at the shack, especially when you’ve got a frozen daiquiri in hand.
This Captiva favorite offers picturesque views of the Intracoastal Waterway and delicious seafood options to boot. Order the Captiva steam pot, which includes clams, mussels, calamari, shrimp, scallops, and fish all steamed in saffron and fennel garlic broth, alongside impeccable waterside views.
Of Note:
Two of Captiva’s most well-known and well-loved establishments were destroyed in the recent hurricanes. Fear not: the quirky and family-friendly Bubble Room Restaurant and British-style beachfront bar and restaurant, The Mucky Duck, are under construction and are set to re-open soon. In the meantime, The Bubble Room’s sister shop, Boops by the Bubble Room, is up and running where you can order their famous slices of cake to-go.
Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Where to Stay
After a day in the sun, find respite at one of Captiva Island’s best resorts.
A hidden gem of Southwest Florida, Tween Waters is truly the perfect spot to relax and unwind. The laidback atmosphere allows guests to disconnect from reality—whether it’s lounging by the pool, soaking in the sunshine with private beach access, or simply reveling in the resorts’ tropical oasis vibes. There’s plenty to do (or not do) on property, so your vacation can be truly what you make of it. Amenities include:
Pool access (There are two pools on property, one is for adults only)
Beach access (Two chairs and an umbrella costs $25)
Play a round of tennis or pickleball on their rooftop court
Relax at the spa
Go shelling up and down the beach
Check out the on-site water sport activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and surfing
See the wildlife which includes manatees, dolphins, and more
Tween Waters offers both rooms and cottages throughout the property, with views of both the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. While there’s nothing like waking up to the sights and sounds of the ocean, our favorite view is actually on the backside of the property, which overlooks the marina.
Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Where to Play
Relax and unwind or participate in a water sport activity—your beach vacation is what you make of it!
Farmer’s Market
Located at the entrance to South Seas Island Resort, find local purveyors at this weekly Tuesday market, which runs from October through the end of May. We never leave empty handed—in fact, we leave with a freshly-made fruit smoothie, one for each hand.
The island’s main boating company, Captiva Cruises, offers a selection of ways to get out on the water. There’s sunset cruises and shelling cruises, plus dolphin and wildlife cruises, but our favorites are the Cabbage Key Cruise (Enjoy lunch on the island believed to be the inspiration behind Jimmy Buffet’s iconic song, “Cheeseburger in Paradise”) and the Boca Grande on Gasparilla Island Cruise. Here’s what to expect once you reach Gasparilla on your half-day trip:
The Gasparilla Inn: A Boca Grande retreat that blends modern amenities with Old Florida charm (we recommend checking out the stunning lobby and the Inn’s curated shops)
The Pink Elephant: Just a short stroll from the Inn, The Pink Elephant—affectionately known as “The Pink”—is set along the Boca Grande Bayou and is a breezy spot serving up coastal comfort food. Each drink comes with a pink elephant tchotchke, too
Shop around town: Stroll the main square of Boca Grande and shop at local retailers like Boca Grande Outfitters and Fugate’s. Then, beat the heat with ice cream from The Pink Pony
Gasparilla Island Lighthouse: Climb to the top of the the island’s iconic lighthouse for beautiful ocean views from the Lantern Room. It’s 134 steps to the top!
Beach: Have yourself a beach day! Go for a walk to collect shells and shark teeth, then take a dip in the ocean and soak up the Florida sunshine
Golf Cart Rental: See the island by golf cart. Rentals are available through Gasparilla Adventures and are a fairly affordable way to see all that the island has to offer
If you’re itching to get off the beach and seeking out a more thrilling version of vacation, head over to Yolo Watersports for parasailing, flyboarding, banana boating, and more. You can also rent golf carts, stand-up paddle-boards, and yes, even beach chairs, for those in your group who prefer to watch the action from the sand.
In summertime, coastal escapes usually get all the glory in this Southern heat. Just the phrase “summer in the South” is lyrical on its own, but when it comes to cooling off without the benefit of a nearby beach town, the region also hits all the right notes when it comes to inland playgrounds for water lovers.
From mountaintop wave pools to retro waterparks stacked with funnel cakes and frozen treats, these Southern spots prove you don’t hafta have a beach to dive into some summer fun. Here are 10 spots, sans ocean, where the water is just fine.
Ghost Trees and Gator Glimpses on the Borderline | Caddo Lake, Louisiana
Right on the Louisiana-Texas state line, the hauntingly beautiful Caddo Lake feels like something out of a dream (or a Southern gothic novel you want to paddle through barefoot). It’s eerie. It’s peaceful. It’s photogenic as hell—with towering cypress trees rising up from the still water, dripping in Spanish moss like they’re all gussied up for church and a little bit of drama.
You can rent a canoe or kayak and drive the twisting bayous, or join a guided tour for some local lore. It’s a top spot for bird watching, bass, catfish, and crappie fishing, or just letting the quiet cast its spell. Keep your eyes peeled for alligators, owls, herons, and maybe even a river otter if you’re lucky—then spend the night at a casino/resort in nearby Shreveport-Bossier and soak up some soul food or a local festival.
Image: Ritz-Carlton Reynolds
An Infinity Pool Nestled in a Treetop TerraceRitz-Carlton Reynolds | Lake Oconee, Georgia
Skip the coast and float on in this iconic infinity pool at The Ritz-Carlton in Reynolds, Lake Oconee, Georgia. It’s adults-only serenity with zero beach crowds or seagulls and endless water views, full bar service, and luxe-lowcountry vibes.
Image: JCTDA
Western North Carolina’s Hidden Summer Playground | Jackson County, North Carolina
Swap sandy beaches for mountain springs—Jackson County’s rivers, lakes, and snorkel trails slide “beach days” to 3,500-foot elevation. Float the Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail, swim beneath the Silver Run Falls, paddle around Lake Glenville, then *do* go chasing the epic cascades at Whitewater Falls.
Image: James Thompson / WOKA
Ride the River and Find the Stillness in Northwest Arkansas
In Northwest Arkansas, adventure and serenity are saddled side by side. Just outside of Siloam Springs you’ll find WOKA—a whitewater park that’s part thrill ride, part river revival. This 1200-foot-long, 100-foot-wide side channel off the Illinois River serves up curated waves and an eight-foot drop—all designed to mimic natural river conditions.
You can rent anything from kayaks and paddle boards to tubes and surfboards. Just up the road in Eureka Springs, trade that adrenaline for some peace and slow it down at Lake Leatherwood—a tree-lined, open city park perfect for a solo paddle or a post-float picnic.
Image: The Omni Homestead Resort & Spa
The Omni Homestead Resort | Hot Springs, Virginia
Settled into Virginia’s Allegheny Mountains since 1766, America’s oldest resort marries Southern heritage and 18th century architecture with modern indulgence and design. Allegheny Springs is the two-acre waterpark at the Omni Homestead Resort, complete with lazy river and water slides, but guests can also splash around in the resort’s natural hot springs and a variety of outdoor activities in the scenic Allegheny Mountains.
Image: 161 Photography / Cloudland at McLemore Resort
Swim in the Clouds | Rising Fawn, Georgia
Perched atop Lookout Mountain at 2,300 or so feet, Cloudland at McLemore (a Curio by Hilton property) is a mountaintop sanctuary that wears its golf credentials like a badge of honor. But for water retreat seekers, abandon the greens for the cliff-edge infinity pool that’s heated year round.
Between the top tier, sweeping pool side views, hot tub, and Skyside cocktail lounge, it’s basically like swimming on a cloud. Beyond the resort property, the surrounding landscape offers Cloudland Canyon, complete with plunge pools below Hemlock and Cherokee Falls. Paddle along Lake Nickajack or Lookout Creek, or time a trip with access to the hidden gem Lula Lake & Falls. DeSoto Falls also delivers on big 104-foot waterfall drama, just a short scenic drive away.
Image: The Four Seasons Orlando
Get Waterlogged on Disney Property | The Resort at Four Seasons, Walt Disney World, Orlando, FL
Forget the fast passes, fam. Go float here instead. At the stunning Four Seasons Orlando property tucked among theme parks, you can totally ghost those plans with the cousins and relax your way through the tropical lazy river.
Book a day at the world-class spa or (and) let the lazy river’s waterfalls mist your face while indulging in poolside service and character breakfasts that don’t come with crowds. This is my go-to water ride in Central Florida.
Only in Mississippi can you go from glamping at a zoo waterpark to canoe-camping down the Mississippi River like Huck Finn (insert better snacks). Start your splashy MS day in Hattiesburg at Serengeti Springs where the local zoo said “let’s add water cannons to this safari” and meant it.
From slides aplenty to multiple pools and mist zones, you can upgrade the day with a premium cabana complete with fans, a safe, lounge seating, plus food and beverage service.
Image: Visit Vicksburg
Float the Mississippi | Vicksburg, Mississippi
If you’re feeling wilder, head to Vicksburg and let the folks at Quapaw Canoe Co. take you off-grid–literally. Find nature-soaked, expert-led day trips and overnight excursions along the mighty Mississippi River. Just bring your spirit of adventure, and they’ll handle the gear
I’d be remiss to leave out my own town where I’m constantly in search of ocean-free summer cool-offs. If you’re craving a summer moment that mixes lush resort vibes with real outdoorsy soul, try this very Nashville two-step: Start your day with a little peace and power thanks to Nashville Paddle Co. Whether you’re a first-timer or a SUP queen, they’ll get you on the water with confidence and calm.
Then, trade the paddle for a pool float and book a room at the iconic Gaylord Opryland, with an added day pass to SoundWaves. It’s a dreamy indoor/outdoor water experience giving a slight nod to my favorite water rides at much-missed Opryland, complete with lazy rivers, surf simulators, wave pools, adults-only areas, good food and frozen drinks. It’s resort core without leaving Music City.
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Featured image: Blueway at Billy Dunlop Park by Jon Duncan
When the weather’s just right (and let’s be honest, in Tennessee, that’s most of the time…if you can stand the humidity), Clarksville calls. Whether you’re the type to lace up your hiking boots, paddle your way downstream, or wander along a waterway paired with a good podcast, this city has something to get your heart rate up and your nature-loving soul happy.
From a cave with centuries-old history to a winding waterway with a lovely riverwalk, here’s how to experience all of Clarksville’s great outdoors.
Planning a trip to Clarksville? Here’s everywhere you should eat, stay, and play.
Image: Lucas Ryan Chambers
Dunbar Cave
Dunbar Cave State Park makes you feel small in the best possible way. But the 144-acre park with an eight-mile-long cave isn’t just a pretty backdrop… this place has stories. Thousands of years ago (dating back to the 14th century), Mississippian Native Americans used the cave as a sacred space, leaving behind intricate drawings and carvings that are still visible today.
You can take a guided cave tour (May through September, weather permitting), stroll along three miles of wooded trails, or post up at a picnic table and pretend you’ve got all the time in the world. It’s part hike, part history, and fully worth the trip. And, it’s naturally climate-controlled, offering a delightful respite during Tennessee’s hottest days.
Image: Jon Duncan
Winding Rivers
Clarksville is a two-river town, and the locals know how to make the most of every drop. The Cumberland River may be a commercial waterway (peep plenty of barges), but that doesn’t stop weekend warriors from launching their own kayaks and canoes from Liberty Park or McGregor Park. If you’re more into laid-back floats or are in town for a visit, head over to the Red River, where two outfitters (Float Ya Boat and Red River Canoe Rental) offer tubes and kayaks without the need for checked bags.
Pro tip: Stop into the “As the River Flows” museum at the RiverCenter to soak in some history before heading out. It’ll give you a deeper appreciation for how much this river has shaped the city—from its earliest settlements to today’s riverside rooftops and walking trails.
Image: Visit Clarksville
Liberty Park
Clarksville doesn’t skimp on green space. Liberty Park is basically the city’s backyard—complete with a marina, amphitheater, a massive community-built playground, and three miles of paved riverfront trails. You’ll also find nods to hometown heroes here, including memorials for Wilma Rudolph and Pat Summitt. Whether you’re walking your pup, catching a sunset, or launching a boat, it’s a prime place to spend a Saturday.
Image: Jon Duncan
Clarksville Greenway
Once a railroad line, the fully paved, nine-mile Clarksville Greenway path winds through some of the city’s most scenic pockets—think bluff views, shady tree tunnels, wildflower fields, flowing creeks, and a 600-foot pedestrian bridge, which is a photo op all its own. Lace up your running shoes, grab your pup (leash required!), or hop on a bike to take it all in—access points are available at Heritage Park, Pollard Road, and Mary’s Oak Drive.
Image: Erin Burke
Rotary Park
Rotary Park is your one-stop adventure center, complete with five miles of trails, creeks, an ADA-accessible playground, a sand volleyball court, and even an 18-hole disc golf course. Mountain bikers love the dirt trails (some shared with hikers, some exclusive), and families come for the wide open spaces and shady picnic spots. In 2020, the Wade Bourne Nature Center opened its doors, showcasing the area’s natural history through hands-on activities and displays. So, this is a worthy spot for rainy day adventuring, too.
Image: Jon Duncan
Cumberland Riverwalk
The Cumberland Riverwalk stretches about four miles, hugging the edge of downtown and connecting to the Upland Trail through a pedestrian overpass. There are plenty of benches and lookout points, so go ahead and grab a coffee downtown, take a stroll, and let your worries trickle downstream. Pro tip: This walk is especially magical around golden hour.
Feeling hungry after all that adventuring? Read a local food writer’s guide to Clarksville dining.
This article is presented in partnership with Visit Clarksville, a Modern South founding partner.
Featured image: Experience Fayetteville / Raul Rubiera
Juneteenth, observed annually on June 19, commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It’s a day of remembrance and reflection, but also one of joy, resilience, and celebration of African American culture and contributions. Across the South, communities mark the occasion with music, food, art, and history. Here are some of the most vibrant Juneteenth events happening this June.
Image: Experience Montgomery
Montgomery, Alabama
Montgomery’s Juneteenth celebrations begin on Saturday, June 14 with the 10th Annual Juneteenth Celebration hosted by the Rosa Parks Museum at Troy University. Free and open to the public, the event features live music, local food, cultural vendors, and complimentary tours of both the main museum and Children’s Wing. Then on Thursday, June 19, take the celebration to the water with the Juneteenth River Jam aboard the Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise. Multiple 90-minute sailings throughout the day blend music, history, and unity into a festive floating experience on the Alabama River.
Image: Experience Fayetteville / Raul Rubiera
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Fayetteville kicks off its Juneteenth festivities with the 2nd Annual Liberty & Legacy Celebration at Dirtbag Ales Brewery & Taproom on Friday, June 13, featuring an Art Crawl, food trucks, a night market, and live performances. The fun continues on Saturday, June 14 with an open-air market and cultural experiences in Hope Mills, followed by the Juneteenth Bash, a family-friendly block party from noon to 3 p.m. with games, bounce houses, food, and local talent. That evening, from 3 to 9 p.m., the 5th Annual Juneteenth Jubilee at Festival Park will showcase national headliners, artisan vendors, and a theme celebrating the legacy of Black women: Sovereign.
Lexington, Kentucky
SoulFeast Week returns to Lexington from Thursday, June 19 to Sunday, June 22, spotlighting Black culinary culture across the city. The 5th annual event features curated dining experiences, immersive exhibits, and chef-led tastings, all honoring the contributions of Black farmers, chefs, and restaurants throughout Kentucky.
Image: Visit Jackson
Jackson, Mississippi
The city of Jackson offers two powerful Juneteenth events this year. On Thursday, June 19, the Two Mississippi Museums—home to the Museum of Mississippi History and the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum—will host their annual Juneteenth Jubilee with free admission, themed educational tours, yard games, live performances, and activities for all ages. On Saturday, June 21, historic Farish Street comes alive for the 10th Annual Juneteenth on Farish. Known as the “granddaddy” of Juneteenth events in the city, this day-long celebration features over 100 Black-owned vendors, live music, kids’ zones, and a moving opening tradition: the “call to the ancestors,” a ritual honoring the legacy of those who paved the way.
Harrodsburg, Kentucky
The 5th Annual Heart of Kentucky Juneteenth Celebration takes place at West Lane Park on Friday, June 20 and Saturday, June 21. With a focus on community and joy, this growing event includes special guest speakers, local food vendors, exciting games with cash prizes, and fun-filled activities for kids, making it a family-friendly favorite in historic Harrodsburg.
Louisville, Kentucky
On Saturday, June 21, Louisville hosts the 6th Annual Juneteenth Festival, a day of community celebration and cultural pride. Guests can expect live performances, food trucks, and family-friendly activities. The festival location will be announced soon—check the official website for updates as the date approaches.
Somerset, Kentucky
Somerset’s Lake Cumberland Farmers Market will host the Juneteenth Jubilee on Saturday, June 21, offering a festive afternoon of live music, games, and food vendors. This welcoming event provides a lively way for families and neighbors to come together and honor the holiday in a fun and inclusive setting.
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There’s something magical about the flavors of summer: the sweetness of ripe fruit, the smell of fresh herbs, a squeeze of bright citrus. When the heat hits its peak and the humidity becomes down-right oppressive, few treats refresh quite like a granita.
This icy Italian dessert is a cross between a snow cone and sorbet, with a texture that’s flaky, light, and oh-so-refreshing. Typically made by freezing and scraping fruit juice or other liquids, granitas are endlessly customizable. And yes… that includes a grown-up version.
Here’s how to make a watermelon mint granita, perfect for sipping poolside (or nestled in the comfort of A/C like me).
As summer fun in the sun heats up, so do all the tips, tricks, and trends for healthy summer skin. With the internet overflowing with different opinions and products, finding the perfect routine for your skin can be a daunting feat. Thankfully, after an exclusive interview with two skincare experts at Complexion Nashville, we have the perfect skincare secrets to spill so that you can maintain protected, glowing skin all summer long.
Beth Higney and Natalie Copeland, co-founders of Complexion Nashville, are rockstars in the skincare industry. Each coming from extensive backgrounds in both the medical as well as aesthetic sides of dermatology, they decided to unite their passions for skin health and beauty to create their very own aesthetic and skincare boutique. In addition to a plethora of in-house specialized treatments catering to your exact skin needs, Complexion also offers its own product line.
Image: Complexion Nashville
“Consumers are getting smarter and more conscious about what they’re putting on their skin,” says Natalie. “We knew we wanted to fill in the holes we saw other products missing the mark on.”
While a broad movement towards wellness and ingredient transparency is a giant step in the right direction, some of these “natural” products might not be first class in getting your skin health where you want it.
“After years of working on the medical side of skincare, we knew what actives worked. The clean products just didn’t have those actives. So, we wanted to make effective products that were clean, hormone friendly, and that also have those well-known actives,” says Beth.
While it may be hard to believe, most sunscreen—the summer and anti-aging secret we’ve come to love—is chock full of hormone disrupting chemicals and fillers that have been linked to several health concerns. That’s why Beth and Natalie recently released Block Party, a 100% mineral based sunscreen.
“This is our newest product. It’s invisible, light, sheer, hydrating, and effortless without sacrificing clean beauty. It has zero chemical fillers and uses nano technology zinc for better protection,” Beth explains.
“Studies have shown that chemicals in sunscreen are found in the bloodstream,” Natalie notes, “This was a big push to go mineral based. Most mineral sunscreens are thick and leave a white cast, but our formula is so light and great for all skintypes. Zinc is naturally antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.” Acne prone ladies—this one’s for you too!
Image: Complexion Nashville
A Foolproof Skincare Routine
In addition to the latest buzz on their newest product launch, Beth and Natalie gave us some great tips on how to build the best skincare regime and keep yourself glowing:
Retinol
An anti-aging hack! Retinols encourage rapid cell turnover and improve lines, wrinkles, and even acne.
Vitamin C
A great tool to protect against and heal sun damage. Also good for brightening the skin, evening out skin-tone, and reducing redness.
Double Cleansing
This is a great way to make sure all the dirt, grime, makeup, and product buildup is removed from your skin. Start with an oil based cleanser if it fits your skin needs and finish with a gentle cleanser.
Sunscreen
No brainer! Sunscreen is the ultimate anti-aging secret for long-term skin protection. Be sure to always invest in a safer, mineral based option… like Block Party!
“Just keep it simple and consistent,” explains Beth. “We’re both moms and want products that are simple and effective,” agrees Natalie, “I totally understand not wanting or having time for a ten step skincare routine!”
In addition to their amazing line of skincare products, Beth and Natlie have worked tirelessly to make sure Complexion Nashville is set apart from the other competitors.
“We’re really proud to not only be woman-founded, but also of our medical training and experience in the field. We take the time to listen and get to know our clients so we can create a space where they feel seen, heard, and cared for,” explains Beth.
“We take pride in education and are always learning about new techniques, research, and products—and we both just love what we do!” Natalie adds.
Image: Complexion Nashville
Southern Summer Beauty Trends
Beth and Natalie agree that looking and feeling your best is the best skincare secret. As summer is upon us, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore some of the freshest tips and trends to have you glowing all season long:
Hot Mess
Tussled hair styles and slickedback looks are all the rave! Whether you’re slicking back your day-five hair or putting some saltwater spray to get some waves, summer is the perfect time to make bed-head or greasy hair work for you.
Less is More
Gone are the days where five layers of matte foundation and stamped eyebrows are in. Look for tinted moisturizers, brow gels, and other light, breathable products to keep you from looking weighed down.
You Glow Girl
Glowy skin is IN! Let your natural hues radiate and enhance your shine with glow-boosting primers and products containing niacinamides and hyaluronic acid for optimal hydration. Oh… and drink your water. Duh!
Bright and Bold
Pretty pinks and corals are trendy right now! Elevate your simple makeup looks with a pop of color on your cheeks and lips and experiment with what looks best with your skin tone.
Sunless Tanning
I think we all know that too long in the sun can do more harm than good. To make sure you’re protected but still getting that summer bronze, look into some (healthy) sunless tanning lotions, gels, or drops to add into your regiment.
Looking for more stories in Southern beauty? Click here.
Featured image: Sam Dean Photography / Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Southwest Virginia, Roanoke has a long-standing reputation for welcoming immigrants and refugees into the community, even getting national recognition last year for its efforts. From Filipino to Middle Eastern to Jamaican and more, this hospitable nature has translated into diverse and flavorful dishes available across the city.
Here’s just a taste of the global bites Roanoke has to offer.
Image: Pinoy Kitchen
Pinoy Kitchen | Filipino
Owner Franchesca “Fran” Maglalang recently closed her popular restaurant and grocery in nearby Vinton, Virginia, but is still serving up authentic Filipino food every Saturday at vintage and antique store Unusual Finds in Downtown Roanoke. Classic dishes like Lumpiang Shanghai, a deep fried appetizer akin to a spring roll, Dinakdakan, a spicy pork belly dish and banana fritters dot the menu. Maglalang will have her Pinoy Kitchen food truck up and running later this summer to bring Filipino favorites to the people on a regular basis.
Image: Nakhon Thai Cuisine
Nakhon Thai Cuisine | Thai
Nakhon Thai is a Thai restaurant that focuses on quality over quantity, says owner Chanya Hanchana, who says the menu is purposely on the smaller side to allow her to “carefully control the quality of each dish.” The focus has paid off as the eatery has near perfect reviews on Google thanks to the vibrant and bold flavors in crowd favorites like the sweet and savory cashew stir fry or crispy chicken.
Located just outside of Roanoke in neighboring Salem, Virginia, Diablos Tacos was a fan favorite at various food festivals around town for a number of years before opening a permanent location just under a year ago. Every Tuesday tacos are just $1.99 each, making it even more of an appealing spot to try—but don’t discount how delicious the street corn or tamales are, too. There’s also a traditional salchicha torta (a grilled sandwich with split hotdogs tucked inside) that’s worth a taste.
Image: Cuban Island
Cuban Island | Cuban
You’ll find this acclaimed Cuban hotspot in the Williamson Road district in Roanoke, a well known destination for international cuisine. Estela Perez and her husband Manuel Hidalgo have been in the neighborhood for 15 years and are well known throughout the community for their homestyle cooking and hospitality. Enjoy Travel recognized them as one of the top Cuban restaurants in the country in 2023. Stop in for a strong Cafe Cubano before moving on to a plate of ropa vieja or one of their Cuban sandwiches.
Image: Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Viet Sub | Vietnamese
Owners Tu Doan and her husband Khoi Nguyen relocated to Roanoke from Vietnam in 2013 and have been crafting their signature Banh Mi Sandwiches pretty much ever since. A perfectly crispy homemade baguette is slathered with mayonnaise and chicken liver pate before being topped with proteins like honey glazed pork herb and veggies and is an all-around winner, but things like pho and Bun Thit Nuong—rice vermicelli noodles—are also available.
Image: Sudha’s Kitchen
Sudha’s Kitchen | Indian
After a year-long hiatus, owner Sudha Tumuluri celebrated a grand reopening of her beloved food truck specializing in vegetarian South Indian flavors in March. Fans flock to the truck, parked on Colonial Avenue about ten minutes from downtown, for the multitude of dosa options and other traditional plates like biryani and samosas on offer. Delight your taste buds with the cheesy paneer or spicy masala dosa and wash it all down with a cool mango lassi to drink.
Image: Empanada Nirvana
Empanada Nirvana | Puerto Rican
As the name suggests, empanadas are a main attraction at this food truck that pays homage to Puerto Rican cuisine. Filling flavors rotate often and run the gamut from mac and cheese to chorizo to a Philly cheesesteak option. At only $5 a pop, it’s a no-brainer to try more than just one. Check out the traditional and popular shrimp mofongo on the menu while you’re at it, or try the Puerto Rican smash burger. You can keep up with where the truck will be by following Empanada Nirvana’s social media accounts.
Image: Ike’s Kitchen
Ike’s Kitchen | Japanese
The Roanoke community was crushed when Ike’s Kitchen closed in March of 2022, only to be elated when the well-loved establishment reopened toward the end of 2023. Originally from Japan, Chef Ike has lived in Roanoke for the last 30 years and serves a range of classic Japanese dishes. The katsudon rice bowl with deep fried pork and egg is a must-order, as is the agedashi tofu or the spicy tantanmen ramen.
Image: Reggae Grub
Reggae Grub | Jamaican
Roanoke’s City Market Building houses Reggae Grub, a newer spot in town celebrating Jamaican culture. Owner Kevin Brown developed his passion for cooking growing up in Jamaica and decided to bring the flavors of his home country to the city in 2023. Try classic dishes like the spicy jerk chicken, oxtails or curry goat for a main and pair it with a side of fried plantains or red beans and rice. Brown is known for doling out substantial portions with each order, but you still may not end up with any leftovers given how good it is.
Image: Bethlehem Restaurant & Grocery
Bethlehem Restaurant & Grocery | Afghani and Mediterranean
Bethlehem Restaurant & Grocery is part restaurant and part specialty grocery store that weaves together Afghani and Mediterranean flavors. On the grocery side, you’ll find a mix of Afghani clothing and provisions like the viral pistachio Dubai chocolate bar, spices, and frozen food, while on the restaurant side you’ll find things like succulent kabobs, falafel and specialties like Qurma Chalow, an Afghan lamb curry. The menu is fully halal as well, one of the few in Roanoke.
Looking for more great Southern restaurants? Click here.
The mirror-tile covered balls may be most associated with the glitzy nightclubs of the 1970s, but, despite the “death of disco,” remain omnipresent today. Now, the disco ball’s sparkle has turned into planters and jewelry, inspiring “mirrorball” tattoos, and dancing its light on the walls in nightclubs, hotels, and residences. But disco ball history actually began in Kentucky over a century ago.
Before there was the disco ball, there was the “myriad reflector,” patented by Louis Woeste of Newport, Kentucky, in 1917. The round ball had a ring at the top for hanging and a series of mirrors affixed around the curves, rotated and lit for a dramatic effect.
Image: Louisville Tourism
“If you’ve read the patent, it does everything it was designed to do: to decorate a ballroom,” says Mick Sullivan, curator of guest experience at Frazier History Museum in Louisville.
Still, it didn’t exactly take off right away. His company, Stephens and Woeste, sold the invention in the Cincinnati area until the 1920s, but the dance halls were quiet during the early years of World War I. The patent expired in 1934, a year after Woeste’s death and well before the rise of disco.
From there, Louisville’s Omega National Products picked up the ball, so to speak, producing the mirrored sheets used to make the disco balls, reviving the design with carefully pasted tiles. At one time, they produced over 100,000 per year, especially in the 1970s when they glittered in famous clubs all over the world (including, rumor has it, Studio 54) and in the film Saturday Night Fever. The disco balls took off, becoming an especially important part of the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene as a symbol of a place where people could be themselves.
Image: Myriad Hotel
Omega has been responsible for many of the disco balls created over the last 75 years, although at much smaller quantities these days. Today, employee Yolanda Baker is the last artisan still handmaking them, whereas most are mass-produced overseas for cheap.
Baker also created one to welcome visitors to the Frazier Museum, which debuted in 2020 alongside the launch of the museum’s “Cool Kentucky” exhibit.
“We wanted it to be one of the first things you see when walking in the door,” says Sullivan of the 28-inch piece. “It [was] made by Yolanda and was donated to the museum by Omega.”
Image: Weyland Ventures
The Myriad Hotel opened in 2023 in the former disco ball factory in Louisville’s Highlands District, paying homage to its past with the original machinery used to pick up the tile pieces still by the pool. You’ll also find an onsite restaurant and, of course, disco ball decor.
No matter what shape the disco ball takes or where its displayed, the Kentucky-made icon still brings joy.
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A sunny, seaside escape awaits you at Florida’s famed 30A. Located along the Sunshine State’s Panhandle is a twenty-four mile stretch in South Walton County that features white sand beaches, charming coastal towns, and stellar gulf views.
Whether you opt for the bustling and vibrant town of Seaside, the luxurious and Mediterranean-inspired town of Alys Beach, the upscale and European-inspired town of Rosemary Beach, or somewhere in between, one thing is for certain: vacationers seeking coastal, slow-paced beach vibes will surely find them here.
The Daytrader Tiki Bar & Restaurant | Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Where to Eat
Eat your way through 30A! Fresh seafood is the name of the game, whether it’s upscale dining to casual, beachfront joints.
Gulf Coast meets Charleston chic at this contemporary coastal tavern. Located in the Alys Beach central promenade, The Citizen’s menu features fresh seafood, wood-fired selections, and a standout raw bar. Take a seat at the raw bar for front row views into the open kitchen and shucking action, then order one of everything from the menu… it’s just that good! Our favorites include a dozen chargrilled oysters topped with Calabrian butter, parmesan, and scallions, the Calabrian shrimp, and the whipped feta to start, followed by the angus steak frites or the Gulf fish & chips. Of course, no meal is complete without a refreshing libation… opt for their seasonal frozen selection or just go ahead and pick the white linen, a light and crushable cocktail.
This quaint and well-loved cafe is baking up delicious pastries and bread, along with breakfast bites and other grab-and-go options. Order a loaf or two to-go and make-your-own beach sandwich at home, or dine-in and enjoy your meal at a bistro table. Everything on the menu is to-die-for—from the avocado tartine to the Paris ham breakfast sandwich—but if you order just one thing on the menu, let it be this: the French toast topped with ricotta, seasonal fruit, maple syrup, sea salt, and pecans truly meets the moment.
Black Bear Bread Company | Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Clock out of reality and slip into an island escape at Daytrader Tiki, 30A’s coolest tiki bar! Located at the entrance of the iconic Coleman Beach Pavilion, Daytrader offers a vibrant escape, with a Polynesian Coast meets Gulf of Mexico menu. Chef Nikhil Abuvala brings a fusion of Hawaiian, Filipino, and Vietnamese flavors together, to dishes like the tuna crispy rice, spam musubi, and Haleakala Volcano shrimp, while the cocktail menu features inventive drinks in fun formats, such as the medical mai tai, the rumpanion, and the swinging tally. Tip: Daytrader offers beach service cocktails on both Tuesdays and Fridays when you book chairs with Cabana Man Beach Service.
In the heart of Seaside’s town center is The Great Southern Café. Known for its Southern classics, the café is the perfect spot to people watch and grab a bite to eat before or after hitting the beach. Enjoy house specialties like the grits á ya ya or the avocado toast for breakfast, or the blue crab claws and balsamic salmon for supper. No matter which you choose, you’ll leave the café feeling full from their hefty portions and delicious home cooking.
Pizza by the Sea | Watercolor, Seacrest, Santa Rosa Beach, and Miramar Beach
Serving the South Walton community for more than fifteen years, Pizza by the Sea is a fast-casual pizza joint known for its thin-crust pizzas. The family-friendly pizzeria has a variety of specialty pies, including favorites like the spaghetti and meatball pizza, the quadruple bypass, and the cha cha chipotle. Beyond pizza, you can expect sandwiches and salads, plus pasta dishes and a calzone option.
A 30A institution, Bud & Alley’s is a favorite for locals and tourists alike. Opened in 1986, the restaurant is still making waves with their all-day dining options. Fuel your morning with a breakfast bite or opt for a meal at Bud & Alley’s later in the day. Either way, don’t miss their famous crab cake with some key lime pie for dessert. If you’re looking for more options, Bud & Alley’s also has both a pizza and taco bar. Most notably however, is their popular rooftop bar, which is the perfect spot to see the sun dip just below the horizon with a delicious cocktail in hand.
Found in the heart of Seaside, Pickle’s primarily serves up burgers and fries, sandwiches, and milkshakes—and you guessed it: pickles! Go big or go home with the chilled jumbo pickle or snack on the fried pickle sticks with a side of ranch dressing. In the sand dunes just behind Pickle’s is Pickle’s Sandbar, where bartenders sling out beachy cocktails, perfect if you’re looking for a toes-in-the-sand experience.
Shrimp tacos, shrimp mac n’ cheese, peel & eat, or a shrimp salad roll, have your pick of the sea at The Shrimp Shack! Order up front and dine out back at the boardwalk with views of the Gulf, or saddle up to the back bar and sip frozen drinks, cocktails, and more.
Arguably considered one of 30A’s best restaurants for oceanfront views, Pescado reservations are highly sought after and for good reason: the Gulf of Mexico seascape and delicious fare are on point. The raw bar selections and other seafood options are great, but don’t sleep on the stir fry yakisoba noodles, which serve as the perfect accompaniment to any main course. Tip: The rooftop patio is first-come, first-serve, so stop by for happy hour from 3 to 4 p.m. or eat an early dinner right at 4 p.m. to secure the best views. For the rest of the restaurant, we recommend you make reservations as soon as they become available (sixty days in advance).
Nestled on the shores of Eastern Lake, Old Florida Fish House is a casual, family-friendly gem with a laid-back vibe. The coastal hot spot provides picturesque views from their outdoor patio, which is adorned with oak trees draped in Spanish moss and twinkling café lights. Since 2005, the restaurant has served up locally sourced dishes like grouper, hand-breaded fried shrimp, and smoked tuna dip, alongside live music and a full-service bar.
A local watering hole in a former general store, The RedBar is a lively bar and restaurant with eclectic decor and live music to match. The space is decked out in mismatched furniture, vintage posters, and a red glow, perfect for a late night at the bar. Or, go early for dinner—just be prepared for a wait as the venue gets crowded.
Airstream Row | Seaside
Smack dab in the middle of Seaside is Airstream Row, a collection of vintage Airstream trailers serving up an array of street food. Trucks include Wild Bill’s Beach Dogs, The Meltdown on 30A, Barefoot BBQ, and more. With its proximity to the beach, laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, and large selection of dining options, every tastebud is covered here.
A health-focused café with organic juices, smoothies, acai bowls, and plant-based dishes, Raw & Juicy is a great spot to refuel or grab a healthy bite. The cafe’s beautiful white-washed stucco facade matches the rest of the town, and the two patios flanking the main building with stylish umbrellas and lots of palms offer up the perfect, laidback boho vibe.
While you can’t go wrong with any of the ice cream shops in Seaside, Nigel’s Bananas is another sweet treat option. The frozen bananas dipped in Belgian chocolate are certainly the star of the show, but don’t sleep on their frozen key lime pie.
Alys Beach | Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Where to Stay
There’s a plethora of options when it comes to lodging along 30A. While each community along the stretch offers a different vibe, you can’t go wrong with a hotel or cottage rental in any of the towns.
From luxury resorts to charming rental homes, there’s a range of options that fit every budget. From personal experience, we recommend booking a home within the WaterColor community to enjoy full access to the WaterColor Inn’s amenities including the grounds, biking trails, pool deck, and easy access to the beach.
Rosemary Beach | Image: Samantha Labrecque Semle
Where to Play
Sun, sand, and a drink in your hand… what more could you ask for? Turns out, there’s plenty more to do in 30A, and we’ve rounded up the highlights.
Seaside’s Town Square
Step into a living postcard with Seaside’s coastal charm. Leisurely stroll the square, shop until you drop at the local boutiques, or grab a bite to eat at one of the several eateries. The spacious green lawn is the perfect place to let the kiddos play while you catch some sun or sit under the shade of a palm tree. There’s a farmer’s market every Saturday and concerts and movies are played at the focally located amphitheater.
Rosemary Beach’s Town Center
This European-inspired village features cobblestone streets and winding walkways that make you feel like you’re in the West Indies without ever leaving the States. At the heart of the community is Barrett Square and Main Street, a lively hub lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and some art galleries. Just off the beach and next to The Pearl Hotel, the Western Green is a spacious lawn perfect for picnics or enjoying the sunset.
Alys Beach Community
Walking around Alys Beach feels like exploring a Mediterranean village. And with the town’s whitewashed architecture and cohesive Grecian feel, it’s not hard to see why. Much quieter than its adjacent towns, Alys Beach is a luxurious and high-end community with lush landscaping, hidden courtyards, and manicured green spaces.
At the center of the community is a palm-lined promenade with a few boutique shops and restaurants. If you’re looking to be outside but prefer to skip the beach, The Alys Beach Nature Trail is a scenic walk through coastal forests, which connects to the 30A bike path.
The Beach
It’s safe to say that there’s no shortage of beach-facing tract along 30A, but for first-time vacationers, beach access points can be a bit confusing. If you’re looking to dig your toes in the sugar-white sand, take note of where the public and private entrances are located throughout the communities, which are clearly marked with signs. Many towns offer private beach access reserved for residents and guests of local accommodations (we suggest staying in the WaterColor community to use their beachfront property!) but nearby public paths are available too. Bring your own chair and umbrella to the beach or rent a setup.
Bonfire on the Beach
Several companies along 30A offer bonfire services on the beach. Pick from custom bonfire packages, complete with beach chairs, tiki torches, s’mores, and more. It’s the perfect way to end the day along the Gulf Coast. Roast marshmallows, gaze at the stars in the night sky, and listen to the sound of the crashing waves while the fire glows and the sand is beneath your feet.
Go for a Bike Ride
Traffic can get quite busy along 30A and parking can be hard to come by, so many folks walk or bike around each of the communities. While many hotels and rentals have bikes you can use, rentals from local companies scattered throughout the area are also readily available. Biking is a fun way to explore the coastal towns—cruise past colorful cottages and enjoy a leisurely ride around the picturesque streets.
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Harold’s Country Club proclaims that it is “in the middle of nowhere but close to everywhere.” That’s true. Where, exactly, might you find this legendary haunt? In Yemassee, South Carolina, off Highway 21 at 97 Highway, 17A. It’s close by the Colleton and Jasper County line as well. If you get the feeling this town is a crossroads, well, that is the case. Some, in fact, consider Yemassee the heart of the Lowcountry.
And the heart of the Lowcountry enjoys eminence. Yemassee claims the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Auldbrass, Old Sheldon Church ruins, Frampton Plantation, and a country club like no other. You won’t need clubs; you won’t need a caddy. But you might pick up a cue stick, and for sure, a fork.
For Harold’s Country Club—“in the middle of nowhere but close to everywhere”—resides in the heart of locals who love a fine meal at an American South original.
Image: Tom Poland
I went to see it. I pulled up in front of a sign that’s seen its share of Lowcountry sunlight, sayeth its faded, yellowed plastic. Nonetheless it’s colorful. A grill full of ribs, chicken, and a huge steak fill one side, a frosty mug of beer the other.
In the middle is a graphic: a circle around a bespectacled Harold and the words, “Harold’s Country Club…Bar & Grille, Est. 1973.” The likeness of Harold Peeples makes the sign.
Entering, I took stock of the place. At the right, front corner of the building stands an old Fire Chief gas pump. Gives the place character. I walked up to the front glass door with a sky blue paper note stuck to the glass: “Benton’s Fresh Boiled Peanuts.” Yep, you could smell salt in the air.
Over between the restrooms, a digital jukebox, TouchTunes, sat idle. Nearby, two dispensers of paper towels sat on a camouflage-covered table. I suspect come October’s cool blue evenings, fluorescent orange deer hunters love this eatery off the beaten path.
Rules caught my eye. “You are required to pay for every steak you order.” In the billiard area—excuse me, poolroom—a list served notice that improper behavior would not be tolerated. A few admonitions: “No Smoking.” “No Hitting Sticks on Tables.” “No Sitting on Pool Tables.” And then, in lowercase, “follow the rules or you will be barred from playing pool.”
On the wall at the bar’s end, some advice: “Win or lose, stick with booze.” At 3:30 p.m., a cast of characters sat around the bar. “Like a scene from Andy of Mayberry,” I mused. Harold’s has to be an oasis to locals. Yemassee is 21 miles from Beaufort as the crow flies, 18 from Walterboro. On the flatscreen at the end of the bar, a NASCAR race was underway. A black-and-white car flirted with the wall. No one paid it any mind. At the bar’s opposite end, several plastic parrots suspended from the ceiling watched the race. Well, they appeared to.
Image: Tom Poland
A boy wearing a red-and-black athletic shirt, no. 15, sat at the bar. I consider Harold’s a family-friendly place. That doesn’t preclude a movie poster in the pool room that features a scantily clad woman with a pair of fabulous legs. The gams promote Bordello of Blood, “Where customers come in, but they don’t come out.” Well, no worries, you’ll come out of Harold’s Country Club in good shape, but know that when you walk in you are stepping in high cotton.
A touch of fame attends this venerable old way station. Celebrities and celebrity makers have been here. Harold left us in 2003, but in his day, he had a special friendship with movie mogul Joel Silver, who owns nearby Auldbrass Plantation of Frank Lloyd Wright fame. Joel often stopped by on Sundays to have coffee with Harold.
In 1994, Dennis Hopper transformed Harold’s into a biker’s bar for his movie Chasers. The print world loves the place, too. Coastal Living, Esquire, and Southern Living magazines have all covered Harold’s. Garden & Gun called it one of the best dive bars in the South. So dive right in.
How did all this come about? Permit me a bit of history—back story, you could say. The family-run business was long a gathering place for the community. What would become Harold’s Country Cub began in the 1930s as a Chevrolet dealership. Harold Peeples bought what had become an old-fashioned garage and gas station in 1973. In the late 1970s, friends and neighbors began a beautiful custom: gathering for covered dish suppers on Thursday nights. Over time, the group began cooking and eating in the garage to avoid bad weather and the gnats and mosquitoes for which the Lowcountry is famed. As Thursday evening gatherings grew, Harold took over the cooking, charging a small amount to cover expenses.
The new car smell of Chevrolet Master’s with 206-cubic-inch engines faded long ago, replaced by sizzling steaks, baked potatoes, and sautéed onions. Add to that shrimp, fish, and burger baskets, wings, and extras that include jalapeno poppers and hush puppies.
Today, Potluck Thursday features a different meal. Fridays you can enjoy Wings and Things, seafood, chicken, steaks and hamburger baskets, as well as extras such as jalapeño poppers, fries, fried mushrooms, hush puppies, onion rings and more. Steak Saturday nights usher in steaks, twelve- to fourteen-ounce choice cut ribeyes. Meals include a baked potato, sautéed onions, a salad, and roll. Served at 6:30 or 8 p.m., you must call 843-589-4360 to reserve your steak in advance. Specify: well done, medium well, medium, medium rare, or rare.
Image: Tom Poland
When the back roads lead you to Harold’s, your destination is a car place that became an eatery. It’s a tale worth telling, this evolutionary story of cars yielding to growling stomachs beset with hunger pangs. In earlier days, folks moved cars out of the garage to set up tables and chairs. In time, the cars left for good. What was the garage’s lube rack is now a “stage” seating area commandeered at times for live music. (Harold built that stage over the “grease rack” in lieu of removing it. How cool it’d be to watch that rack rise with a country band on stage, giving them a platform like no other.)
As the garage evolved into a bar and restaurant, radiator hoses and fan belts stayed put. On May 9, 1999, a big fire changed that, destroying the entire bar area, hoses, belts, and all. Harold rebuilt. Friends donated various artifacts to help restore the unique décor. Fan belts were donated by, well, who else? Fans.
A room for extra seating and private parties morphed into the bar, and Harold’s was up and running within a week, although it would be two weeks before meals could be prepared. Missing the first Thursday potluck was too much. Several customers asked Harold if they could bring covered dishes so everyone could share a meal. The food was back, and the rest, as they say, is history.
But wait. Hold on. We have one more fish to fry. What about that name, Harold’s Country Club? Well, a tale’s behind that too. Because all work and no play make Harold a dull boy, he devoted much of his time to baseball and softball. He played, coached, umpired, and supported the local softball team. When that team lost its field and needed a place to play, Harold and friends formed the Yemassee Athletic Association. They bought land and built a ball field across the road beside what today is the Country Club, known then as Peeples Service Station.
After the games ended, announcer Charles Jackson had a custom of sorts, saying, “Now, let’s all go over to Harold’s Country Club for a cool one.” Soon people started calling the business Harold’s Country Club.
Image: Tom Poland
You would have liked Harold. Despite all his rules, the man had a heart. Rich or poor, he treated folks the same. He had a reputation for helping people—friends, strangers, stranded motorists, whoever needed a helping hand. He valued good times and wanted everyone to have just that. But then there were all those rules. He didn’t accommodate tomfoolery. In fact, he banned troublemakers from his old Chevy dealership “for life and a day.”
For life and a day. Folks, that sounds a lot like forever. Well, it just sounds like it because it wasn’t quite true. A sincere apology got them back through the door, resurrecting their membership. And you know and I know they had to be grateful. Grateful to be reinstated at Harold’s Country Club down yonder in the middle of nowhere, where breezes stream Spanish moss back like an older woman’s tresses and old oaks tremble when winds press against limbs heavy with resurrection ferns.
Down yonder in Spanish moss land, where a Saturday night carries the aroma of grilling steaks and locals talk about movie stars, old cars and rules.
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As a tenured food writer, the biggest lesson I’ve learned in my career is that taste and favorites are subjective: my must-order dish at a restaurant could be average to a friend, and ingredients like goat cheese and olives may be beloved to many but repulsive to me.
Because of that, I’ve found the most effective way to write about restaurants is to focus less on the non-negotiables and more on the narratives, the why behind what makes each place, each person, and each dish unique in its own right. Does the chef have a rags-to-riches story? What history lies within the building’s walls? Where do the ingredients come from, and more importantly, why?
Answers to these questions help foster a greater appreciation for place and make each bite (metaphorically) sweeter. The idyllic town of Franklin, Tennessee, may delight visitors with its storybook streets and Hallmark-esque allure, but the real people who make this town shine are certainly following no script.
From a bucolic luxury resort plucking produce from the outdoor garden to a strip mall favorite with a passion for helping people live better, meet the people behind some of Williamson County’s must-visit restaurants.
Planning a visit to Franklin? Check out our complete destination guide here.
Herban Market
Many Franklin restaurants are passionate about quality, from maintaining their own gardens to taking great care with ingredient sourcing. Herban Market stands out for its intentional approach to food and its mission to leave diners feeling their best when they leave.
Herban Market’s story was born from burnout: owners Matt and Ashlea Hogencamp were pounding the corporate pavement and navigating life with littles. They were frustrated with the lack of healthy options and transparency in grocery stores, and a lightbulb moment encouraged them to create just that. If you build it, they will come. And come they did.
The multifaceted destination now includes a grocery store, restaurant, coffee bar, olive oil and vinegar bar, and a robust selection of supplements. Chef Bobby Benjamin eventually joined the team to amplify the culinary offerings at Herban Market: while there’s, unsurprisingly, a hearty collection of salads and smoothies, the restaurant also offers things like wraps, pizzas, burgers, and tacos, all sourced with intention.
Why is healthy food so important? “How much time you got?” Chef Bobby answers. They take their sourcing decisions all the way down to the soil: where your goods are grown impacts nutritional value.
“Franklin, to me, has been almost a storybook—it’s beautiful, and the community is great,” chef Bobby adds. “What I’ve been fascinated about is the demand for eating healthy, wanting that nutritional value, wanting to know where your food comes from.”
Southall Farm & Inn
A visit to Williamson County is a one-two-punch of city and country. In a few miles, you can go from corporate offices for massive international brands (Nissan, Kirkland’s, Mars Petcare) to a bustling downtown district lined with charming shops and restaurants, and finally, just a little further, acres of manicured farmland and wide open spaces.
Leiper’s Fork has long been the residential destination of choice for locals who might have a Grammy or five in their inventory, but visitors have unsurprisingly caught on. Then, in 2023, a sprawling resort opened its oversized doors, giving them all a place to land without having to truck back into town each night.
Southall Farm & Inn earned a Michelin Key in 2024, recognizing it as one of the world’s most special places to stay. While the stunning resort grounds, renowned spa, and outdoorsy extracurriculars draw visitors independently, the culinary program here is the sustainably sourced cherry on top.
The property boasts its own greenhouses, gardens, and orchards chock-full of herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Before service each night in the signature restaurant, January, chef Nate spends a meditative moment in the gardens hand-picking garnishes and accompaniments for dishes—menus change daily based on the bounty.
Chef Nate’s passion for cooking sparked in the kitchen with his mom, whose servant heart prepared meals for some 100 churchgoers every Wednesday night. He also recalls his great-grandmother’s basement larder, where stacks of carefully canned and pickled produce were stored for winter. Southall is no stranger to preserving—chef Richard Jones mans the onsite jammery, preserving hot peppers, okra, kimchi, and sauerkraut to sustain the restaurant in lean, cold months.
“The philosophy we’re embracing at Southall is ‘lead with love,’” says chef Nate. “We’re providing nourishment.”
Image: Perenn Franklin
Perenn Franklin
New on the Franklin scene, Reno-based Perenn (like perennial) opened in May 2025 to reveal the interior overhaul of the century: formerly a seafood spot reminiscent of a dockside boat house (it sits just off the Harpeth River), the bakery now looks plucked straight out of Paris. Fine details adorn every inch of the space, from the custom espresso machine to the floral artwork, antiqued booths, and cases full of freshly-baked pastries.
The first outpost opened in Reno in 2018 under owners Aubrey and Tyler O’Laskey, expanding to a collection of three unique locations and a sister rotisserie over the years. Then, with a small familial army including four kids, a dog, a cat, and a beta fish, the O’Laskeys packed up and moved their beautiful brand to Franklin.
“A customer who had recently moved from Reno to Franklin reached out to share how welcoming the community was and encouraged us to come for a visit,” Aubrey shares. “Since we’d been exploring cities for Perenn’s next chapter, we hopped on a plane the following week.”
One stroll down Main Street sealed the deal. Now, coffee meetings, catch-ups, and post-church gatherings have a stunning new option—Perenn Franklin features everything from craft lattes to fresh-baked pastries and, soon, mains like sandwiches and steak frites.
Once upon a time, a boy from Mississippi and a gal from England joined forces in both life and business, and soon enough, an elevated small-town gastropub was born.
“We met in a restaurant,” Gemma says. “He was the chef, and I was the waitress. Old school love, they call it.”
Thompson’s Kitchen in Fairview started as a food truck and catering company during the pandemic. It wasn’t an ideal time to be in event catering, and Rodney and Gemma found themselves with more time to pursue their dream of a brick-and-mortar. They had a secret shopper—a landlord eyeing the pair as a potential tenant—and by November 2020, the plan for a physical location was underway.
The restaurant opened throughout the following year, slowly at first as the pandemic still raged. But soon, they found themselves scrambling to order more tables and chairs to accommodate the growing demand. Today, the popularity remains, mostly thanks to the locals-turned-regulars (around 70% of the business comes from the community).
This come-as-you-are spot dishes up everything from smashburgers and steak medallions to creamy chicken pasta and Korean BBQ. It also offers an impressive kids’ menu and a full bar. For an unexpected treat with a local stamp of approval, add this one to your list.
Image: Victoria Rose / Courtesy Visit Franklin
Culaccino & Culamar
Chef and owner Frank Pullara tapped into his Sicilian roots when brainstorming his first food concept: He wanted an Italian restaurant with an industrial, modern feel to it—something warm and inviting but more intimate than open.
Downtown Franklin isn’t known for its massive construction projects. In fact, the Historic Zoning Commission goes to great lengths to preserve the district’s charming integrity. So, when expansions began block by block on the north side of Main Street, plenty of rules and ordinances were in place regarding what would be permitted. Chef Frank stood in a gravel lot, a framed building with nary a window, and the vision clicked.
Today, Culaccino stays full of locals and visitors alike, sipping aperitifs on a sunny patio and sopping up whipped ricotta with fresh-made bread inside the cozy dining room. The dream was for the restaurant to feel like a comfortable place to land, an extension of one’s home. That dream has certainly become a reality for many now regulars, and soon, the restaurant expanded with a sister concept right across the street.
Culamar takes a coastal approach to Italian cuisine, with oysters and crudo kicking off the party and scallops, snapper, and branzino bringing it home. In addition to its airy interiors, Culamar holds the moniker of downtown Franklin’s first (and, currently, only) rooftop spot. A crisp glass of Italian white pairs great with the sunset, can confirm.
Culaccino means to leave an imprint, like the watermark a glass might leave behind. The hope for these concepts is to leave an imprint on all who visit, a goal well achieved.
See all our stories from Franklin, Tennessee, here.
This story is presented in partnership with Visit Franklin, a Modern South Founding Partner.
As someone who has spent most of my life split between Georgia’s capital city and the coast, Macon is usually the halfway point on my road trips.
An easy exit from Interstate 75, the Macon outpost of Fresh Air Bar-B-Que has long been one of my family’s favorite pit stops (pun intended) for a quick bite when driving between Savannah and Atlanta. We would stretch our legs while filling up on chopped pork sandwiches, ice-cold Coca-Colas, cups of Brunswick Stew, and slices of pie.
But in more recent years, especially after I married a man from Middle Georgia, Macon has become a destination in its own right. Now, whenever my husband and I are in the area, we make a point to visit a new bar or restaurant that has opened in the city’s historic downtown or near Mercer University’s scenic campus.
Here, I’ve rounded up my favorite destinations to enjoy a taste of both the city’s soulful history and modern energy, plus a few places I’m heading on my next stop.
H&H Soul Food Restaurant
If you’ve come to Macon with a hankering for classic Southern food, look no further than H&H. Founded in 1959 by Inez Hill and Louise Hudson, this iconic meat-and-three is known just as much for its fried chicken, collard greens, and pork chops as its connection to the Allman Brothers Band. The Southern rockers were famously frequent visitors and developed a life-long friendship with “Mama Louise,” who even joined the band on their tour bus in 1972.
Today, H&H remains a local favorite as well as a must-stop lunch destination for fans who tour The Big House—the Allmans’ former residence that has been preserved as a museum. While you’re in the neighborhood, pop into locally owned Rabbit Hole, a sweet shop for artisan goods, and MD Exchange, a curated antique store, located next door.
Image: The Society Garden
TheSociety Garden
Macon’s deep musical roots continue to blossom at The Society Garden. Located in Macon’s hip Ingleside Village, this funky outdoor beer garden and wine market is a popular spot for live music and people-watching with a capacity for up to 500. Cool off with a frozen cocktail slushie or choose from one of nearly 100 craft beers in the cooler, then grab a bite from a food truck, order pizza from Ingleside Village Pizza, or indulge in El Amigo during “Trivia & Tacos” on Thursday nights.
An apropos mural of Macon’s own Little Richard—aka the “Architect of Rock ‘N’ Roll”—holds court over the festivities. Tip: check the calendar before you go, so you don’t miss out on ticketed events like Dolly Parton Day (costumes encouraged).
Ingleside Village Pizza dates back to the early 1990s, and the nostalgic interiors will make you feel like picking up a VHS from Blockbuster on the way home. A menagerie of colorful string lights, neon signs, disco balls, and folk art fills nearly every inch of the brick walls. At the counter, regulars order New York-style pizzas by the pie or slice, plus breadsticks, salads, and sub sandwiches to dine in or carry out.
Image: Macon Bagels
Macon Bagels
Founded in 2021 by Lauren Bone and Patrick Rademaker, Macon Bagels is the place to be on weekend mornings. Before the doors open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, there is already a line down the block with people of all ages waiting to get inside for hand-rolled bagels and rotating pastries, like Saag Paneer scones. Flavored cream cheeses, like honey pecan and carmelized onion, nod to Georgia staples. The menu also includes breakfast sandwiches, and the interior offers tables to chow down while admiring the building’s historic architecture.
Macon’s signature brand of laid-back vibes continues at Piedmont Brewery & Kitchen. Led by Brian Whitley and Richie Jones, this circa-2017, family-friendly brewpub is a welcoming spot, whether you’re dining solo at the bar, catching a game on TV, or gathering with a large group. The menu offers above-average bar snacks, like grit fritters and bánh mì sandwiches made with pork belly or beef brisket, plus hearty brunches on Sunday mornings. Expect handcrafted beers on tap, like the refreshing “Good Vibrations” Tangerine Golden Ale or the robust “Midnight Rider,” a dark porter inspired by the Allman Brothers Band’s hit song.
A newer addition to downtown Macon, Longleaf Distillery opened in 2023 and quickly made a name for itself for its award-winning spirits and craft cocktails, like the Evergreen Alpine Liqueur that serves as a solid, homegrown substitute for elusive Chartreuse. A menu of small plates is designed to pair with cocktails sold on site using the strong lineup of house spirits. Much more than a well-designed bar and community gathering space, Longleaf Distillery founders Will Robinson and David Thompson are also on a mission to restore the Southeast’s longleaf pine tree forests, which have been over-harvested for homesteading and ship-building. For every bottle sold, the distillery pledges to plant a longleaf tree, helping to restore a lost ecosystem, support local farmers, and improve air quality.
Located at the corner of Poplar and 2nd Street, Oliver’s facade has recently undergone a glow-up with sleek black-and-gold lettering that better reflects the high-quality food happening inside this family-owned and operated restaurant. Led by executive chef Matthew Hammock and executive sous chef Jared Turner, plates of fresh-made pasta and fresh produce from local farms make Oliver’s a sought-after spot for date nights, birthday celebrations, and other special occasions. Tip: Make reservations in advance, as seats in this petite bistro fill up quickly.
Image: Yollah Social Kitchen + Garden
Yollah Social Kitchen + Garden
Drive down College Street and you can’t miss Yollah’s cheerful exterior, complete with bistro lights, galvanized tubs overflowing with plants, and a guitar mural painted on the side of the white building. The warm atmosphere and attention to detail continue in the kitchen, where the focus is on Latin flavors—think empanadas, chilaquiles, Cuban sandwiches, and buñuelos. True to the name, a sun-lit backyard, complete with a campfire and outdoor seating, doubles as an event space. I see a brunch here in my future.
Image: Moonhanger Group Restaurants
Dovetail
On historic Cherry Street, plenty of folks are familiar withThe Rookery, Macon’s go-to pub for juicy burgers, cold beers, and milkshakes since Jimmy Carter was in the White House. Fewer folks, however, have ventured upstairs to Dovetail, where elegant takes on modern Southern cuisine shine. The addition opened in 2012 from Wes Griffith’s Moonhanger Group, one of the city’s preeminent hospitality groups, and has received no shortage of stellar praise from my friends and family as well as from media outlets across the South. Behind the bar at Dovetail, patrons can find a fine selection of bourbons and wines. A solid list of non-alcoholic cocktails and beers is also on offer.
When the cravings for martinis and red sauce hit, Natalia’s beckons. Originally established in 1984 by Italian expat Natalia del Basso Orsini, this Macon mainstay has served generations of families in a beautifully transportive setting. Today, the namesake’s legacy continues under the purview of the Moonhanger Group, with contemporary additions like tuna tartare, carpaccio, dover sole, and rigatoni with fennel pollen, served alongside the old-world classics like bolognese lasagna and spaghetti pomodoro. Gluten-free pastas are available upon request, and be sure to leave room for tiramisu.
Image: Kinjo Kitchen + Cocktails
Kinjo Kitchen + Cocktails
Mercer University alumnus and service industry pro, Chelsea Hughes, opened Kinjo Kitchen + Cocktails in March 2020 during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, she persisted. In the past five years, Kinjo has become one of the buzziest places to dine in downtown Macon, and not just because of the expert cocktails. The menu marries together Southern comfort with Asian-inspired flavors, with popular dishes such as curry chicken ramen, hoisin duck, and bulgogi lettuce wraps—just to name a few. The kitchen stays open until 9:30 p.m. so patrons of the Macon Little Theatre can enjoy a post-show snack; small plates are 20% off with proof of a ticket. After dinner, in-the-know locals relocate downstairs to the basement speakeasy, Black Cat Liquor, where the bar stays open until midnight on Thursday and until 2 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Image: The Monkey’s Paw Tiki Lounge
The Monkey’s Paw Tiki Lounge
Thanks to Macon’s walkable streets, patrons can continue the progressive cocktail party with a tropical detour. The Monkey’s Paw is a rum bar specializing in handcrafted Tiki cocktails—both classics and creative renditions by owners Tony and Ashley Doolin—on Thursday through Saturday evenings. Reservations are limited to one hour, making the colorful lounge a great place to stop before or after dinner downtown.
The third speakeasy to join downtown’s burgeoning craft cocktail scene, The Man Upstairs is housed above Downtown Grill. Since debuting last year, the bar is leading the way, with an emphasis on no-waste production, with everything from bitters to homemade liqueurs made from scratch. Driven by a desire to educate and entertain as much as to imbibe, the cocktails here highlight old-school recipes and spirits, like Genever, Batavia Arrack, Kirschwasser, and Himbeergeist, among others. These pros even hand-cut the ice in each glass.
Image: jim Shaw’s Seafood Grill
Jim Shaw’s Seafood Grill
A Macon food tour isn’t complete without a stop at Jim Shaw’s. Many Maconites enthusiastically endorse this casual seafood shack that has been a local tradition since 1987. Known for its fresh catch and timeless Southern fare, seating is first-come, first-served, giving diners a chance to mingle with their neighbors while they wait. Daily specials are handwritten on a roll of brown Kraft paper that hangs behind the bar, but it’s the consistent, come-as-you-are hospitality that keeps people coming back.
Looking for more stories from around the South? Click here.
This article is presented in partnership with Visit Macon.
As a self-proclaimed foodie, I’m always on the hunt for delicious food. I keep a running list in my phone of restaurants I’m excited to try. But I always grapple with the same question when it’s time to pick a place for dinner: Do I try something new, or do I fall back on my favorite spots that I already know I love?
The compounding problem with a city like Durham is that there are simply too many good restaurant options to choose from. Every year at least a few restaurants or bars around town get a nod from the James Beard Foundation, which solidly makes Durham a foodie lover’s dream. These are the spots I would visit again and again without getting tired of the food.
Image: Stacey Sprenz
Cheeni | Downtown
Sit at the counter at this downtown Durham spot serving up phenomenal Indian fare so you can watch chef Preeti Waas and her team in action. Not surprisingly, given Waas’ many accolades in the restaurant world, every dish at Cheeni is an explosion of flavor. I can’t go without ordering the aloo chaat or the fish moilee, and it would be a sin not to order a side of naan or paratha to wipe up every last bit of sauce.
Little Bull is situated in the Old Five Points neighborhood in Durham. Since opening in 2023, the Mexican-inspired eatery has quickly shot up to a popular staple in the city’s restaurant scene. Inside, moody lighting and exposed brick walls make the space cozy and inviting. Even when it’s packed, it still feels like an intimate dining experience.
Whatever ceviche is on the menu is a must-order, as are the birria dumplings made with goat. While there are a few larger dishes available, the emphasis on small plates means you don’t have to forego anything that looks appealing.
Image: Parker & Otis
Parker & Otis | American Tobacco Campus
There is something about a great sandwich that can change the trajectory of your day. Parker & Otis is part mercantile, part eatery located in the American Tobacco Campus. In addition to being able to peruse a curated selection of wine or, in my daughters’ instance, a wide range of colorful stickers, you’ll find expertly crafted sandwiches.
I can never say no to a turkey sandwich, and their option topped with Foster’s Markets’ seven pepper jelly is a gem. But other go-tos include their green goddess tuna salad sandwich or their BLT with pimento cheese.
Image: Discover Durham
Sofia’s | East Durham
Every city needs an affordable, no-frills pizza shop, and Sofia’s in East Durham fits the bill perfectly. The picnic tables outside are a great spot to sit and enjoy a giant slice of hand-tossed pizza or one of their house-made chicken tenders. Their ranch dressing is, without a doubt, the best condiment in the city and is a perfect accompaniment for the pizza, tenders, or wings.
Image: Discover Durham
Parizade | Old West Durham
For over 30 years, Mediterranean-focused Parizade has been a Durham institution. With its white tablecloths and dim lighting inside, it’s the perfect spot for a special occasion. It does feel fancier than a lot of spots in Durham, but not pretentious, which is often the case for restaurants with white tablecloths.
You can’t go wrong ordering the mezze trio to get a taste of their take on classic dips like hummus and spicy red pepper, but the spaghetti entree with shrimp and feta is also a knockout.
No Durham list would be complete without including powerhouse Chef Ricky Moore’s seafood joint. Moore won the coveted Best Chef Southeast James Beard Award in 2022 and has been a semifinalist for Outstanding Chef, too.
The menu changes daily and according to the season, but you’ll find everything from scallops and crab cakes to flounder and tilefish at Saltbox, depending on when you go. Then there’s the ‘hush-honeys,’ their take on hushpuppies doused in honey.
There’s often a line out the door, and reservations aren’t accepted, but the wait is worth it to experience the fresh, locally-sourced seafood Moore dishes up.
KoKyu is a fast-casual Asian fusion restaurant that started as a food truck before transitioning to a brick-and-mortar location. It feels a bit off the beaten path, tucked behind I-40 in an office building complex in South Durham, but don’t let that deter you.
This fast-casual Asian fusion spot is one of my newer favorite places in Durham for its punchy flavors and low-key vibe. Their burnt-end nachos have both a Mexican and Asian flair while their bahn mi sandwich skews more traditional in its approach, but every dish on the menu maxes out on flavor.
Image: Discover Durham
Alley Twenty Six | Downtown
While there is plenty of seating inside, try to sit in the alley that gives this downtown restaurant and bar its name. Twinkling fairy lights zig-zag back and forth across the space, giving it a magical feeling. But the ambiance isn’t the only allure here—it was not only the first craft cocktail bar in downtown Durham, but also the first bar in North Carolina to be nominated for Outstanding Bar Program by the James Beard Foundation.
Owner Shannon Healy puts a major emphasis on using homemade syrups for the wide array of creative cocktail options. The menu changes often, but you can request any old favorites from the menu. If you love a cocktail, you can ask for a recipe to take home to try to recreate, and even purchase some of the syrups they use in the cocktails from the restaurant.
An entire section of the menu at Alley Twenty Six is dedicated to tinned fish options that are great for pairing with one of the cheese boards for an excellent ‘girl dinner’, but the signature 8-oz burger also hits the spot. Save room for the affogato for dessert with local mocha liqueur from Durham Distillery.
Image: Discover Durham
The Original Q Shack | Rockwood
There might not be a better spot for BBQ in Durham than The Original Q Shack. A fan favorite since 2003, Q Shack gives diners a choice between Western North Carolina and Texas-style BBQ favorites.
Decision-making is tough here, so opt for a combo plate so you don’t have to choose just one of their smoked meats. They also offer tailgate options that have a plentiful amount of meat and sides, like their jalapeno deviled eggs and mac & cheese, for family gatherings or for nibbling on before Duke games.
The swanky new Nanas opened at the end of 2023 after an extensive renovation and ownership change. Plush blue velvet, polished woods and leather accents give off a sleek yet comfortable atmosphere, reminiscent of your grandmother’s living room.
It’s a high-end dining experience with a heavy emphasis on service and food quality. The team makes frequent trips to the farmers’ market for fresh, seasonal ingredients, so the menu changes according to what they find. The aged NY strip complements the overall vibes, but the pastas are also outstanding. Whatever you choose, do not skip the dinner rolls.
Image: Discover Durham
M Sushi | Downtown
Since opening in 2016, Chef Michael Lee has created a veritable empire of restaurants across the Triangle focusing on traditional Japanese and Korean flavors. M Sushi is his flagship restaurant, located in the basement of an old office building in downtown Durham. The focus is on simplicity—both from a decor perspective and for the food. Go for the Grand Omakase to experience multiple courses of the chef’s daily selections. If that feels like too much food, don’t skip the nigiri to taste some of the freshest fish in Durham. The smoked Chilean sea bass is a great option if you want more than just sushi.
Looking for more stories from Durham? Click here. And, for a full list of Essential Restaurants, click here.
This article is presented in partnership with Discover Durham.
Pride Month is celebrated every June to honor the 1969 Stonewall Riots—an uprising in response to police raids at the Stonewall Inn in New York City that catalyzed the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. What began as an act of resistance has grown into a nationwide celebration of love, identity, visibility, and progress.
Across the South, vibrant communities are marking the month with parades, festivals, and rainbow-clad events that uplift LGBTQIA+ voices and foster belonging. Whether you’re marching, dancing, learning, or supporting, here are five Pride events that serve as both a celebration and a continued call for equality.
Get ready for four days of fun and fierce celebration at Memphis Pride Fest Weekend! What began as a grassroots picnic has blossomed into one of the largest Pride events in the region, drawing more than 60,000 attendees each year. With over 175 vendors and exhibitors, a vibrant parade, and two stages of entertainment (among much more), this weekend offers something for everyone. Expect a soulful, welcoming energy that celebrates the city’s LGBTQ+ community in a big way.
Athens has always been a haven for creative expression and LGBTQ+ inclusion, and Pridefest proves it. Hosted by the Athens Pride & Queer Collective, this daylong celebration, themed From Athens, With Pride, blends a spirited downtown parade with a street festival full of music, local makers, and food trucks. Attendance has grown quickly in just a few years, and this year’s theme—From Athens, With Pride—welcomes everyone from longtime locals to first-time visitors to take part.
Franklin Pride brings heart and hope to Williamson County with its annual celebration at Harlinsdale Farm. With a mission to uplift and educate, this inclusive event creates a welcoming space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and their allies. Expect a meaningful day filled with music, connection, community resources, and inspiring voices.
Downtown Raleigh lights up with color and community for the 13th annual Out! Raleigh Pride celebration. Held on Fayetteville Street, this free, family-friendly event features live entertainment, local vendors, delicious eats, and a bustling beer garden. It’s more than a party—it’s a fundraiser supporting the LGBT Center of Raleigh’s 20+ vital programs.
Alexandria’s 8th Annual Pride Fair brings together a wide range of community partners to celebrate LGBTQ+ contributions and promote inclusive resources. Hosted by the Alexandria LGBTQ+ Task Force, the fair includes everything from live music and Pride swag to free health services and art workshops. It’s a welcoming event for all ages that honors the vibrancy and diversity of Alexandria’s LGBTQ+ community.
Born-and-raised in Clarksville, I’m a daughter of farmers rooted more than six generations deep. While some may be “finding their roots,” I never lost mine when I started traveling the world in search of the foodways that make a place unique. It has been the cultural identities shared over a plate of food that I discovered the common thread in all of our stories—a sense of place.
But, make no mistake. Every city has its pain point when it comes to its food scene. The main gauntlet of Clarksville, otherwise known as Wilma Rudolph Boulevard, is peppered heavily with every chain you could ever think of, serving as Clarksville’s biggest pain in its culinary derriere.
But, excuse me? There is nothing in the world wrong with some endless soup and garden salad served with all the breadsticks your little heart desires, thank you very much!
Still, Clarksville also has a growing community of chefs and restaurateurs (old-school and newcomers alike) who share a vision for our burgeoning local food scene. A vision that includes stories of my people.
Image: Visit Clarksville
Old Glory Distilling Co.
Less than a mile from where I took many of my childhood naps in the cab of Daddy’s tractor is Old Glory Distilling Co. The restaurant portion of its campus focuses on smoked meats and other dishes that pair with the spirits distilled onsite from locally sourced grains. Out back at Silo Park, you can sip on a Tennessee whiskey by the fire while listening to live performances from its stage.
Also owned by the Cunningham family are The Mailroom in Clarksville’s old post office, and Strawberry Alley Ale Works located in historic downtown Clarksville. Fun fact about Strawberry Alley? Its building was originally a textile manufacturer where, during World War II, they made Fort Campbell’s army uniforms. MawMaw was an honest-to-gosh Rosie the Riveter during wartime at this factory. Now, at one of my favorite breweries in town, I do not pass go without ordering the chicken piccata served on a bed of farro and root vegetables!
Edward’s Steakhouse
Edward’s Steakhouseis another staple in downtown Clarksville. As one of Clarksville’s only independently-owned steakhouses, this old school classic was once a furniture store where my parents bought their first living room set. Even as I write this story, I’m looking at a piece of that furniture Mamma and Daddy gave me when I set up my own house for the first time. Edward’s menu features traditional steakhouse fare, including my favorite—the grilled wedge salad.
Note: Downtown Clarksville boasts a host of other local dining options such as Yada on Franklin, Blackhorse Pub and Brewery, and one of the state’s finest farmers markets (each Saturday from May to October.)
JibBop
Clarksville is home to a significant number of Koreans (ranked 5th largest in Tennessee) due to a combination of factors: its sister city agreement with Gunpo, South Korea, and South Korean company headquarters such as Hankook Tire and LG Electronics. Not to mention, Clarksville is home to the 101st Airborne which was reactivated for the Korean War. So, our Korean BBQ scene is legit!
My go-to is JibBop, which is located mere steps from Austin Peay State University where Mamma was once a student. The interactiveness of this style of dining is so much fun. But, it’s all about the Banchan for me. If you’re not familiar with Korean BBQ, it’s most often served as a cook-your-own meat and veggies over a hibachi situation accompanied by a plethora of small plates (Banchan) of fermented vegetables, savory pancakes, and lots of braised things. Really though, the sky’s the limit.
Mexican Restaurants
There seems to be a Mexican restaurant on every street corner here of varying degrees of authenticity. For the real deal, I have a couple of favorites that include the most authentic tacos at Taqueria Jalisco, and the best pozole of my life at Mi Lindo VeraCruz.
But, I cannot lie. My guilty pleasure is a frozen margarita out of a machine, and you just can’t beat the margarita happy hour happening EVERY DAY at El Rancho Grande from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Hey, if you know, you know!
The Catfish House
If there is just one restaurant that most any native Clarksvillian knows, you need to head “across the river” toThe Catfish House with the Cumberland River at its back door.
Specializing in fried farm-raised catfish, the menu offerings include other fried-to-a-golden-brown perfection such as oysters and crab cakes—all served with coleslaw, white beans, and hush puppies family-style.
Image: Visit Clarksville
Acme Boot Distribution Center Restaurants
Another company many Clarksvillians worked at back in the day was the Acme Boot Factory. MawMaw was one of those folks for a bit. These days, the 54,000 square-foot distribution warehouse has been transformed into a complex of several iterations that include antique shopping and lunching at Miss Lucille’s, an arcade, go-karts, bowling and all around family fun at City Forum, and one of my favorite places for wings at Dock 17 which was named after the old Acme Boot loading dock.
The Smokehouse Wings come with your choice of BBQ sauces. My favorites are Eddie’s Korean BBQ, and the Blackberry Bourbon Jalapeno.
Hananoki Japanese Steakhouse
Mamma and Daddy were married for 60 years. So, when we lost Mamma back in 2021, Daddy had a time finding his new center. I’m so proud of him for how he’s managed. Take, for example, his comfort level of dining alone when I can’t join him. If you see him holding court at Hananoki Japanese Steakhouse, the servers all know him by name at this traditional Japanese Hibachi joint.
And, he loves the miso soup so much that they usually send him home with a 32 oz. container of it. I’m partial to their sushi offerings such as the Kevin Roll. Named after co-owner Kevin Huh, this deep-fried roll is stuffed with shrimp, crab and avocado, and finished with Kevin sauce. You’ll have to ask Kevin what’s in that sauce, but I’m pretty sure it’s in the Yum Yum family.
Image: The Cultivated Co
The Thirsty Goat
Hunter and Forest Stapp also found their new center, after their parents’ passing, by opening The Thirsty Goat just as the COVID-19 pandemic had shuttered many indoor restaurants. Us locals loved this community gathering place (still do) for its spacious beer garden in which to enjoy a variety of regional beers on tap, and one of the best pizza menus in town.
All of The Goat’s pizzas are thin crust (gluten-free options available), with creative topping combos. My usual is The Crazy Ex with cream cheese, jalapenos, bacon, and honey drizzle paired with King’s Bluff IPA, Liberty Park.
welovEmilia
Come to think of it, I have another go-to for pizza, and can confirm its authenticity thanks to my time spent in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Paying homage to Italy’s bread basket, welovEmilia specializes in the handmade pastas and pizzas of its motherland.
From its Emilian-style thin crust pizzas straight from the brick oven, to a dish hailing from Bologna—Lasagna della Nonna—everyone that I’ve taken here agrees that it’s the best they’ve ever had.
Image: J2 Photographs
Excel Market and BBQ
I’d be remiss if I didn’t include in this list a place that my family has patronized my entire life. And, to this day, I can hop in Granddaddy’s old pick up truck and almost smell the hickory smoke billowing from a pit just a few miles from the farm.
Excel Market and BBQis one of those quintessential old country stores where you can get your bait, tackle, and a six-pack of Miller High Lifes for a day out on the river while filling up the tank. And, out back? Whole hog barbecue is smoking on the pit. Whether it’s a sandwich, or by the pound with all the fixings, plus fresh-made pies, Excel BBQ is a place we all cherish around these parts.
Planning a trip to Clarksville? Click here for everything you need to know.
