Best of Fayetteville 2019

Cumberland County’s Community Newspaper 22ND ANNUAL SPECIAL EDITION

STAFF PUBLISHER’S PEN PUBLISHER Bill Bowman It’s time to celebrate the best of the best! [email protected] by BILL BOWMAN ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER/ EDITOR Stephanie Crider [email protected] OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Paulette Naylor accounting@upandcomingweekly. com ASSISTANT EDITOR Leslie Pyo Jenna Shackleford [email protected] SENIOR SPORTS EDITOR Earl Vaughan Jr. [email protected] REPORTER Jeff Thompson [email protected] GRAPHIC DESIGNER Elizabeth Long [email protected] MARKETING ASSOCIATE Linda McAlister Brown [email protected] DISTRIBUTION MANAGER/ SALES ADMINISTRATOR Laurel Handforth [email protected] INTERNS Avery Powers Deidre Somdah CONTRIBUTING WRITERS D.G. Martin, Pitt Dickey, Margaret Dickson, Karl Merritt, John Hood, Jim Jones, Shanessa Fenner, Prudence Mainor, Avery Powers, Elizabeth Blevins From the staff at Up & Coming Weekly, congratulations to the Best of Fayetteville winners. ––––––––––– Up & Coming Weekly It’s celebration time! The Best of The Up & Coming Weekly Best of people, businesses and organizations. www.upandcomingweekly.com Fayetteville is here. This is the event we Fayetteville edition you are holding in Please join me, the Up & Com- have anticipated all year long. Well, your hands will serve you well through- 208 Rowan St. actually, Best of Fayetteville may be a out the year. It is a valuable visitor’s ing Weekly staff and our 2019 Best of P.O. Box 53461 misnomer. It should be titled Best of guide, service directory and cultural Fayetteville sponsors as we begin this Fayetteville, NC 28305 Cumberland County because it en- and event resource. yearlong celebration. Pick up extra cop- PHONE: 910-484-6200 compasses the best of the best people, ies of this special edition of Up & Com- FAX: 910-484-9218 services, businesses and organizations The format of and guidelines for this ing Weekly at any one of our 500 county- county-wide as determined by the read- sanctioned, time-tested survey have wide locations, or stop by our corporate Up & Coming Weekly is a “Quality of Life” ers of our community newspaper, Up & been designed and audited to provide offices at 208 Rowan St. publication with local features, news and Coming Weekly. This is why we invited residents, local businesses and organiza- information on what’s happening in and Hope Mills Mayor Jackie Warner to rep- tions the recognition they deserve for For 24/7, 365-days-a-year access to around the Fayetteville/Cumberland County resent Cumberland County and cohost their ethics, dedication and persever- the Best of Fayetteville winners list, visit the awards party. ance in their quest for excellence. Every www.upandcomingweekly.com. While community. category winner has achieved the high- you’re there, sign up for our free elec- Up & Coming Weekly is published weekly Each winning entity has distinguished est level of excellence in what they do — tronic subscription and receive the Early itself within the community by reinforc- no nominations needed. Bird edition of Up & Coming Weekly on Wednesdays. Up & Coming Weekly ing our values, defining our community’s every Tuesday afternoon. welcomes manuscripts, photographs and personality and contributing to our For 22 years, Up & Coming Weekly has artwork for publication consideration, but quality of life. We received thousands successfully told the winners’ stories I also want to welcome Mark Pez- assumes no responsibility for them. We of ballots during the month of June and and revealed their secrets to success zella and Five Star Entertainment as a cannot accept responsibility for the return painstakingly recorded the sentiments of without a single regret or complaint. corporate sponsor of Best of Fayetteville. our readers. You need to get to know these And, we did it without bogus nomina- Thank you to Jimmy Keefe of the Trophy of unsolicited manuscripts or material. people, businesses and organizations. tions, gimmicky advertising, ballot House and CPA Lee Utley for nearly two Opinions expressed by contributors do not They are the ones who continually impact stuffing, pay-to-play shenanigans or decades of supporting and partnering our community. They are the ones who costly events. There are no second- with us in this valuable endeavor. necessarily reflect the views of the pub- leave a positive and indelible impres- or third-place winners with Best of lisher. The publisher reserves the right to sion of pride on us and who have laid the Fayetteville. There is only one winner I hope you enjoy this special edition. edit or reject copy submitted for publication. groundwork for the success of future gen- per category. Keep it handy and refer to it often. We Up & Coming Weekly is free of charge and erations of residents, visitors and guests. sincerely thank you for reading Up & distributed at indoor and outdoor locations In this fast-paced and competitive Coming Weekly and for making us throughout Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, Pope Granted, this survey is informal and market, only the best of the best survive. your only locally owned community Air Force Base, Hope Mills and Spring not very scientific. However, with the This is why we are proud to be associ- newspaper. Lake. Readers are limited to one copy per rules, conditions and restrictions we ated with and supported by the Greater person. © 2019 by F&B Publications, Inc. place on participation, the end results Fayetteville Chamber. Leaders know the BILL BOWMAN, Publisher, UP All rights reserved. Reproduction or use have proven to be accurate, dependable value of a sound foundation in building & COMING WEEKLY. COM- and reflective of our community. a better community. Here, that founda- MENTS? BILL@upandcomin- of editorial or advertisements without tion is this community’s best of the best gweekly.com. 910-484-6200. permission is strictly prohibited. Various ads with art graphics designed with elements from: vecteezy.com and freepik.com. 2 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

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CITY life Best Change In Fayetteville For 2019 Fayetteville Woodpeckers Baseball 460 Hay St. 910-339-1989 or www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com Best Place To Commune With Nature, Last year, Fayetteville voted that downtown Best Wedding Venue most needed family entertainment. That desire was satisfied with the much-anticipat- Cape Fear Botanical Garden ed arrival of the Fayetteville Woodpeckers 536 N. Eastern Blvd. this spring. Our new baseball team is the 910-486-0221 or www.capefearbg.org Class A Advanced minor league affiliate of the Houston Astros, the 2017 major league Cape Fear Botanical Garden, a long- baseball World Series champion. time Best of Fayetteville winner in these categories, is a 30-years-and-counting The team came in strong, hiring locals to gem in our community. It’s an 80-acre help build its brand and hosting two suc- oasis of beautiful plant life, specialty cessful kickoff events in mid-April. gardens, winding paths and still ponds situated between the Cape Fear River and Home attendance for the Woodpeckers’ Cross Creek. A convenient few minutes’ first 20 games topped 70,000. As of June 2019, it had eclipsed 120,000, according drive from downtown Fayetteville, the to the Carolina League website. That put Fayetteville fans at the third-highest garden provides city dwellers with a serene getaway. attendance in the Carolina League’s 10 teams. Our average game attendance The garden wins year after year not only because of its beautiful grounds but was 3,628 as of June 2019. also because of its engagement with the community. Its annual events include outdoor concerts in the spring and fall, the enchanting Holiday Lights in the Clearly, locals are here to cheer on our team. So are out-of-towners. Garden, art and education workshops and weekly offerings of tai chi and yoga. Woodpeckers games are drawing in people from surrounding areas like Currently, the work of New Mexico-based artist Kevin Box is on display at CFBG Lumberton and Sanford. That’s good news, as the city invested $40.2 million in through September. “Origami in the Garden²” highlights Box’s fantastical, gigan- building the Woodpeckers’ Segra Stadium. With its picture-perfect concourse, tic, origami-inspired metal sculptures. Next up? Hogwarts and All, a night of wiz- diverse concession options and features like a kids zone and outdoor party ardry and fun for 21-and-uppers in October. deck, there’s no doubt Segra Stadium and the Woodpeckers bring both family CFBG’s specialty gardens include Camellia, Daylily and Shade Gardens, a Butterfly fun and endless economic promise to this community. Stroll, the Children’s Garden and the Heritage Garden. The Heritage Garden features 1886 agricultural structures and a homestead. Guided tours are also available. The Houston Astros signed a 30-year lease, meaning the Woodpeckers’ pres- The Wyatt Visitors Pavilion Complex and Grand Hall set in the gorgeous atmo- ence and our response to them will have far-reaching implications for the future sphere make CFBG not only the best place to commune with nature, but also the of our city. In a statement to Up & Coming Weekly this May, Fayetteville City best venue for a wedding ceremony. Councilman William “Bill” Crisp said, “(In) 30 years, we can expect the Astros to be interwoven into the fabric of Fayetteville’s economic development.” Best Local Festival/Event Worst Change In Fayetteville For 2019, Fayetteville Dogwood Festival What Does Fayetteville Need Most 222 Hay St. 910-323-1934 or www.faydogwoodfestival.com Downtown parking Every spring, more than 350,000 people Not everything connected to our new head downtown to the Fayetteville Dogwood baseball team and stadium is peaches Festival to check out carnival attractions, local and cream. Paid parking in downtown and national musicians, trick/specialty per- Fayetteville has been a thorn in the formers, arts and craft vendors, food and fun sides of many for a long time. The addi- in this spectacular celebration of our commu- tion of economic development projects, nity. The Dogwood Festival offers educational including Segra Stadium and the Prince resources for parents and children, too. Charles Hotel renovation, were meant to draw visitors to the city center. The The festival has received top honors at city, looking to fill its coffers and poised local, state, regional and international levels. to take advantage of the anticipated In February 2018, the Fayetteville Dogwood crowds headed for downtown, changed Festival was named Best Event in the Southeast by the Southeast Festivals and Events its paid parking policies several times — Association at its annual conference in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Unsurprisingly, it and not in favor of its citizens. wins Best Local Festival/Event in Up & Coming Weekly’s Best of Fayetteville year after The result was frustration not just from locals looking to enjoy events and year, too. Its economic impact is over $4.5 million. charming destinations but from employees and business owners as well. As Sanctioned events before and during the festival, which always falls on the last citizens strategically found the few free parking spaces and firmly drew lines in weekend in April, make the entire month exciting. These include Cork & Fork, the sand about what they were willing to pay to experience downtown’s offer- Miss Fayetteville Dogwood Pageant, Hogs & Rags Motorcycle Rally, Fayetteville/ ings, the city eschewed attractive transportation and parking options that would Cumberland County Crimestoppers Barbecue, the Classic Car Show, Boom & get people to games and events. Hourly employees were left wondering how Bloom Fireworks, Kidstuff, BMX shows and more. they would afford to park and how much the new parking fees would affect their The Dogwood Festival saw a big behind-the-scenes change this past year. Carrie take-home pay. Business owners lamented the loss of foot traffic and were left King retired from her 13-year post as executive director for the festival in 2018. King to their own devices as to how to draw paying customers to their establishments is rightly credited by many as being responsible for developing the festival into the despite these parking challenges. prestigious event that it is today. She was succeeded by Malia Allen, who started in Fayetteville entrepreneurs spent decades turning downtown Fayetteville into December 2018. a destination people want to visit. Developers, local leadership and investors We can’t end this tribute to the Dogwood Festival without thanking those who pulled together and built a multimillion-dollar stadium under the assumption started it all: Bill Hurley, John Malzone and other dedicated city leaders. Thirty- of “if you build it, they will come.” And maybe they would if it didn’t cost an arm seven years ago, they put their heads together to make the last weekend in April and a leg to park. something truly special. There’s no question that they were successful. The fact that downtown parking won both Worst Change and Most Needed this year signals that citizens do want to regularly visit our growing downtown 4 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 — and city leadership needs to get this solved. Best of Fayetteville

Best Local Landmark Best Little-Known Attraction Market House Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex Roundabout of Person, Hay, Green and Gillespie Streets 801 Arsenal Ave. 910-500-4240 or https://museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov One thing that’s remained con- stant through all of downtown’s A solid community asset for 31 years, the Museum of the Cape Fear growth is the Market House, Historical Complex is owned by the North Carolina Department of Natural planted squarely at the round- and Cultural Resources. One can hope this win will permanently remove the about of Person, Hay, Green and “little-known” aspect of its reputation. Gillespie Streets. Driving down Hay Street into the prime down- The Museum of the Cape Fear boasts three attractions in one place. First, town shopping area, the Market the museum itself has two stories of exhibits that tell 400 years of southeastern House is the first thing you see. North Carolina history — from the lives of Native Americans to the turmoil of It’s on the city seal. It’s an ever- the Civil War to the workings of an early 20th-century general store. Bonus: You popular subject for local photog- can rent out the museum to wed your beloved in a historic setting. raphers and painters. And, it’s one of only 50 national landmarks Right next to the museum are the 1897 Poe House and Arsenal Park. The in North Carolina — and the only Poe House is named for Fayetteville native Edgar Allan Poe. Unlike the famous one in Cumberland County. macabre writer who shares his moniker, Fayetteville’s Poe was a local business- man, politician and civic leader. His house was listed on the National Register of Fayetteville hosted the Historic Places in 1983. North Carolina Constitutional Convention here. And at this Arsenal Park, with roots that go back to the early 1800s, contains extant ruins site, which was then a state- with explanation signs, a steel semblance of the Northwest tower, also known as house, delegates ratified the U.S. the “ghost tower,” and two Civil War Trail markers. Constitution on Nov. 21, 1789. The statehouse burned in a fire in 1831, and the Market House in its current Annual educational events such as Festival of Yesteryear, Hallowe’en Revels form was built in its place in 1832. The ground level of the building was used as Night Tours of the 1897 Poe House, and Holiday Jubilee keep locals coming back. a marketplace until 1907, and up until 1906, the upper level served as the town hall. The Market House is one of only a few structures in the U.S. to use this town The backyard of the Poe House serves as the summer performance site for hall-market architectural setup, which is common in England. local theater troupe Sweet Tea Shakespeare. The Museum of the Cape Fear Today, the iconic building hosts local history exhibits and is open the second grounds will also be the site of the North Carolina Civil War & Reconstruction and fourth Fridays of the month. Its permanent exhibit, “A View from the Square: History Center when and if it gets built. A History of Downtown Fayetteville,” provides essential perusing for visitors and newly arrived families. We can't thank you enough! Best of Fayetteville 3 years in a row! Best CPA Firm \"Helping you get the most from your business for your family\" 572 Executive Place, Fayetteville NC • 910-323-3100 www.mscpas.com • facebook.com/mcfadyensumner JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 5

Our customers told us, CITY life if we built it, Coolest Venue Downtown, Best Use Of Local Tax they would come! Dollars, Worst Use Of Local Tax Dollars SSHHOOPP NNOOWW Segra Stadium 460 Hay St. WWW.ANSTEADS.COM 910-339-1989 or www.fayettevillewoodpeckers.com 910•864•5705 Like last year, Segra Stadium wins 320 N. McPherson Church Road some conflicting titles but emerges with a 2-to-1 ratio of positive to negative des- 6 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 ignations. The city invested $40.2 mil- lion into building Segra Stadium. Last year, it won Best Community Project and tied for both Best and Worst Use of Local Tax Dollars. Regardless of where you stand on the money issue, it can’t be denied that Segra Stadium oozes cool. It features natural grass, a 360-degree concourse, a 25-by-70-foot LED scoreboard, six luxury suites, four field boxes, a premium club level, an outdoor party deck, a kids zone and a seating capacity of 4,700. The right field bar, named Healy’s, is the most prominent concession area. It features 24 different draft beers on tap, as well as corn hole, foosball and big- screen TVs. There’s lounge furniture and a stage for live music, too, prompting Woodpeckers President Mark Zarthar to call it “the coolest party area at the ball- park.” It’s open on game days as well as some nongame days. Left field is the family- and kid-friendly area, and other concession options line the first and third baselines. Offerings include craft beer, barbecue, steaks, burgers, Mexican fare and more. Best of all, the Segra Stadium is an amenity many more people than just base- ball fans can enjoy. The space is planned as a site for hosting concerts, festivals and even private events like retirement ceremonies. Best Thing To Show Off To Visitors, Best Museum Airborne & Special Operations Museum 100 Bragg Blvd. 910-643-2766 or www.asomf.org The Airborne & Special Operations Museum is the only museum in the country dedicated to all Army airborne and special operations units. Every year, it sees thousands of visitors: veterans who often share their stories with other visitors, Gold Star family members, students from local schools, those who want to understand more about our mil- itary, and people from all over the world. Nearby Fort Bragg houses the 82nd Airborne Division and Joint Special Operations Command, so downtown Fayetteville is the ideal place for this museum. No wonder ASOM is a repeat winner in both of these Best of Fayetteville categories. Established in 2000, ASOM tells the story of U.S. airborne and special operations soldiers from 1940 to the present. Features include permanent and temporary exhib- its, a parade field lined with monuments, a reflection garden, simulator experiences and more. Extra events include the annual Field of Honor, military-related movie showings and book signings, 5Ks, National Airborne Day celebrations, and ceremo- nies honoring different individuals and units. Liz Mileshko was hired as executive director of ASOM in December 2018, and she’s determined to grow its worldwide recognition. Her role preceding this one was as director of development for the American Heart Association. ASOM’s future includes a revamping of exhibits and the addition of immersive technology, virtual reality and post-9/11 history. Mileshko also anticipates the unveiling of an American flag with 1,000 names of soldiers killed in action post-9/11. ASOM’s first annual Canine Veterans event was held this March in honor of military and service industry canine veterans. In May, its first annual Signature Gala, a black-tie affair, included the unveiling of a piece of art recognizing the fight against terrorism. Best of Fayetteville

Worst Thing To Hide From Visitors ank You For Making Bragg Boulevard Your #1 Fayetteville Furniture Store! loves to hate Bragg Boulevard. It’s Again! practically a tradi- tion. Year after year, 4901 Morganton Rd. - NEXT TO CROSS CREEK MALL our readers vote Bragg Boulevard as 864-5533 the worst, and year after year, we cross Monday thru Friday, 10 to 9, our fingers as the Saturday, 10 to 7 votes are tallied, hoping this 6-or-so Closed Every Sunday miles of one of the most traveled roads in town will be redeemed. vwww.bullardfurniture.com Don’t get us wrong. Bragg Boulevard has its fair share of clubs that draw high-spirited, testosterone-driven revelers. But it also has many of JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 7 Fayetteville’s favorite restaurants, museums, bars and high-end spas. Many of Fayetteville’s favorites are located on Bragg Boulevard. The Airborne & Special Operations Museum, Saigon Bistro and MaryBills Cafe are all on this road and have all been voted Best of Fayetteville winners at least once, if not multiple times. And let’s not forget the Villagio apartment com- plex, the 2.5 miles of relatively newly paved road and the many respectable family-run businesses. While it is no longer a gateway to Fort Bragg, we hope this thoroughfare Fayetteville loves to hate can make its way into the community’s good graces. Here’s to hoping Bragg Boulevard regains its status as an important part of our city rather than remaining a blight to hide from out-of-towners. Best Local Community Project The Vision Resource Center 2736 Cedar Creek Rd. 910-483-2719 or www.visionresourcecentercc.org The Vision Resource Center has been serv- ing visually impaired and blind people in the Cape Fear region since 1936. As listed in VRC’s mission state- ment, this means advocating for this population’s needs, identifying and shar- ing information about community resources, and providing educa- tion, skill development and socialization opportunities. VRC began in 1936 as the Cumberland County Association of the Blind, working with Cumberland County Social Services. It was one of the first four agencies of the United Way of Cumberland County. In 2000, VRC gained its cur- rent moniker. In 2007, it moved from its location on Robeson Street to set up shop at the Dorothy Gilmore Therapeutic Recreation Center on Purdue Drive. Just a few months ago, in May, VRC was able to move into its very own location for the first time. VRC’s new Center for the Blind is located on Cedar Creek Road. This was possible thanks to the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners and people in this community who believe in the VRC and support its mission. One of VRC’s signature events is its “Out of Sight” dinner fundraiser. Guests experience what it’s like to function without eyesight for an evening while enjoying delicious food and drinks. This year’s 7th Annual “Out of Sight” event will be held Sept. 21 at the new Segra Stadium. Tickets are on sale now, and more information can be found on the VRC website. There are too many good things to say about VRC and too many life-enrich- ing services it offers to write about here, so be sure to visit its website to learn more and to see how you can help. Thank you to VRC Executive Director Terri Thomas and the board of directors and volunteers for pouring yourselves out in service of others. Best of Fayetteville

Many Thanks To Our Dedicated Customers, CITY life Employees, Friends & Family. Best Local Nonprofit Organization B E ST POO L HA LLMany Thanks to ourMARTY FREE TOURNAMENT - Q CITY - APA - NAPA - BCA TOURNAMENTS ComeDedicated Customers, Fayetteville Animal Protection Society HOST LOCATION 3927 Bragg Blvd. GFamily for Voting us 910-864-9040 or www.fapspet.org PBoeostl NELWOSCoLAATmRIeOGtNeE!R!MartyFreeTournament-QCityEmployees, Friends &NAPA NATIONALS APA - NAPA - BCA Tournaments For animal-lovers, relationships with pets bring some of life’s greatest joys. Hall Host Location of NAPA NATIONALS Fayetteville Animal Protection Society NEW LARGER LOCATION believes all animals deserve safety, not just those lucky enough to already HoMHur-sFoo3fuPOMrp-esr2aAtMion: be in a loving home. FAPS is a no-kill M -SAFT -3SPUNM12P-M -22AAMM nonprofit shelter for homeless animals to find refuge and care until an adop- SAT - 2S44U3 HNope1M2ills -Rd2. AM tive family can be secured. FAPS also 2443 Ho91p0.e779M.010i1lls Rd. aims to reduce the population of stray animals and to promote responsible 910-779-0101 pet ownership. More than 90% of FAPS animals are saved from Cumberland 8 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 County Animal Control. FAPS is thorough in its adoption pro- cedures, ensuring animals go to homes that will truly care for them. The pro- cess includes a mandatory meet-and- greet, where everyone in the household — both those with feet and those with paws — meet the pet. FAPS is the only Cumberland County no-kill, nonprofit animal shelter sup- ported by volunteers, grants and individual contributions. This means that its success directly depends on community support. Events like FAPS’ annual Woofstock fundraiser help keep the doors open. Visit the website and click “Donate” or “Volunteer” to learn about other ways you can help, like donat- ing a few items off the Wish List, sponsoring a kennel or giving your time. Best Local Fundraising Event Cape Beard Pig Pickin’ for Autism www.capebeardfof.com/pig-pickin-for-autism or https://www.facebook.com/cape.beard.9 Once again, Fayetteville’s favorite local fundraiser award goes to the Pig Pickin’ for Autism put on by Cape Beard: Follicles of Freedom, the local nonprofit beard and mustache club. Cape Beard has promoted the acco- lades of facial hair since 2011. The club has officially coined in 71 members with many diverse talents and interests. Soon after its inception, the club started hosting fun-filled events and supporting local causes, including the Karen Chandler Trust, the Autism Society of Cumberland County, KidsPeace, Chambers for Hope, Second Harvest Food Bank and others. To date, the club has raised $140,554 to help make Fayetteville and Cumberland County a better place to live. This year, Cape Beard’s 8th Annual Pig Pickin’ for Autism raised $12,300 for the Autism Society of Cumberland County. Thanks to 1,000 pounds of pork, live music, vendors, sponsors and the people of Fayetteville and Cumberland County, it was tons of fun. Cape Beard has raised $75,280 total for the ASCC. Cape Beard members are humbled that Fayetteville and Cumberland County have voted for them as a winner in this category three years in a row. Best of Fayetteville

ARTS Where Everyone Best Live Theatre KCan Be A id! Cape Fear Regional Theatre BESTThank You For Voting Us 1209 Hay St. Candy Store! 910-323-4233 or www.cfrt.org 1916 Skibo Rd. Skibo Rd. (Marketfair Mall) Fayetteville Cape Fear Regional 910-867-6032 Rocket Fizz Fayetteville Theatre blends local and national talent to Thank you for voting us bring Broadway-quality Best Wingz 2 performances to town. This downtown treasure years has been a mainstay of in a Fayetteville’s cultural life row! for almost 60 years, deliv- ering solid entertainment 407 N Eastern Blvd with a dose of power- fully relevant social issues Sun-Thurs: 11AM-10PM•Fri-Sat: 11AM-11PM mixed in. Under the capable guidance of Artistic Director Mary Kate Burke, the 2018- JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 9 19 season was no exception. From the original country music score of season opener “Music City” to the madcap adventures of “Peter & the Starcatcher” to the rollicking show tunes of “Annie” to the 1950s-era R&B of “Memphis,” CFRT’s musical presentations hit a high note. Dramatically departing from the lush staging of the musicals, CFRT’s “Trumbo” dealt with congressional power run amok, and “The Cake” tackled intolerance with a touch of humor and a dash of Southern charm. “Mama Mia!” is scheduled to open the 2019-20 season. Following that are “No Child,” “Shrek: The Musical,” “Murder For Two,” “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night,” and season closer “Jelly’s Last Jam.” As always, CFRT’s shows will continue to highlight national, regional and local talent. Every year, CFRT collaborates with local merchants and breweries to pres- ent its Blues-N-Brews fundraiser in Festival Park. This year’s event, which took place June 8, was Beach Party themed. CFRT’s community outreach projects also include summer camps for children and teens, discussion nights preceding performances, a military outreach program, and sensory- friendly performances for children with special needs. Best Local Actor/Actress Lanie Jo Myrtle Fayetteville’s favorite actress this year is 11-year-old triple threat Lanie Jo Myrtle. Myrtle, who will start sixth grade at John Griffin Middle School this fall, has acted on-stage for seven years. She also sings and dances. Her debut was as Toto, Dorothy’s lovable dog, in Jack Britt High School’s 2013 production of “The Wizard of Oz.” Myrtle’s most recent performance was this fall as a cast member in the music-driven “The Heart of Christmas Show.” It was her third year joining the HOC cast. “I like that it makes me happy,” Myrtle said of acting. “I like to act out all the different charac- ters and use my God-given talent. If I didn’t use it, what’s the use of having a talent?” At the time of this writing, Myrtle was prepar- ing to attend a national dance competition. She’s been dancing since she was 2 and has been a member of the Elite Dance Center Competition Team since 2013. She and Ava Grace Kinlaw took first place for their duet at the Dance Machine Nationals in 2017, and she helped win Lyrical Team First Place at the same competition that year. In response to her Best of Fayetteville win, Myrtle thanked her family, friends, HOC and several local mentors who have helped her along the way: Laura Stevens, Victoria Armstrong, Michelle Hurd, Katy Swain and Hillary Bogers. Best of Fayetteville

ARTS Best Art Gallery The Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County 301 HayFASYtE. TTEVILLE CUMBERLANDCO. 910-323-1776 or www.theartscouncil.com Best Play/Musical This Season A perennial favorite, the “Annie” at Cape Fear Regional Theatre FAYETTEVILLE CUMBERLANDCO. Arts Council of Fayetteville/ 910-323-4233 or www.cfrt.org Cumberland County has Cape Fear Regional Theatre’s production been an essential force in of “Annie” was nothing short of spectacu- our community since its lar, often drawing cheers from a full house. founding in 1973. It administers programs in partnership with a variety of regional With the book by Thomas Meehan, lyrics by agencies to stimulateFAYETTEVILLE CUMBERLANDCO. community and economic developmentFAYETTEVILLE CUMBERLANDCO. through the arts. Martin Charmin, music by Charles Strouse and a setting in the midst of the Great The Arts Council is built on the premise that art connects people faster than any- Depression, the adventures of a young orphan in search of her parents touched thing else and is worth promoting. Nonprofit arts and culture comprise a $59.2 mil- on a theme still relevant today. The contrast between Hooverville, where Annie lion-dollar industry in Cumberland County, which is consistently higher than the takes refuge, and her life as a guest in Oliver Warbuck’s mansion emphasizes the national average. The Arts Council won national recognition and a $10,000 award vast gap between the rich and the majority of citizens struggling just to eat and from Ovation network and Spectrum this year as one of 12 organizations across keep a roof over their heads. the United States lauded for innovative programming and enriching communities. So far, community organizations and individual artists have received $652,429 in Lily Hogge alternated playing the title role with Zoi Pegues, and each girl dis- grants and support from the Arts Council during the 2018-19 fiscal year. played an amazing vocal range for her young age. The Orphan Ensemble capti- The Arts Council benefits from events like the art walk-abouts that bring people vated from the beginning. Thanks to the orphans, the mood never descended into downtown and also hosts several of its own events. 4th Fridays continue to draw pathos. Their superb rendition of “It’s A Hard Knock Life” and subsequent heck- visitors downtown to enjoy street music and art as well as local restaurants and ling of Miss Hannigan convinced the audience these were resilient little girls. brew pubs. Every September, the Arts Council produces the International Folk Festival to Erin Fish’s Miss Hannigan, a role she played on the national tour, was the vil- celebrate the city’s diversity with dance and musical performances, authentic inter- lainess we all loved to hate. Fish played Miss Hannigan for laughs, of which there national cuisine and the Parade of Nations. This year, Sunday, Sept. 29, is family were plenty. Robert Newman, in the role of Oliver “Daddy” Warbucks, brought day at the IFF. star power to Fayetteville, having appeared for 28 seasons on the long-running TV On the Friday following Thanksgiving, the Arts Council annually sponsors A program “Guiding Light.” Dickens Holiday. Horse-drawn carriages, artisans, carolers, period shops and a moving candlelight procession culminate in the mayor’s holiday proclamation and Under the artistic direction of Mary Kate Burke, “Annie” was directed and cho- a fireworks finale. reographed by Robin Levine. Both the set, designed by Charles Glenn, and the Under the direction of Greg Weber, new president and CEO, the community costumes, designed by Sarah Harris, were simple yet evocative of the era in which can look forward to more great experiences with Fayetteville’s favorite art gallery. the musical was staged. The orchestra, under the direction of Jillian K. Zack, was superb — taking care to enhance rather than overwhelm young voices. Thank You Cumberland County Residents For Voting Us Best Heating and A/C Company A trusted name in the community for over 80 years #1 • Replacement Service • Service Contracts • Free Estimates • Duct Replacement 415 East Russell Street Fayetteville, NC 28301 • 910.483.4696 www.blackwellheatingandair.com 10 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

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ARTS Night life Best Cinema Complex Best Venue/Club for Live Music Millstone 14 The Drunk Horse Pub 3400 Footbridge Lane, Hope Mills 106 S. Eastern Blvd. 910-835-8347 or www.facebook.com/TheDrunkHorsePub 910-354-2121 or www.stonetheatres.com Millstone 14, located in the It’s not every day Millstone Towne Centre in you find a local bar Hope Mills, has offered local with an incred- patrons an upscale movie-going ible sound system. If experience for 10 years now. All you’ve been on the the auditoriums feature stadi- hunt, look no further. um seating with leather rocker The Drunk Horse Pub seats complete with convenient is loved for its drinks, cup-holders. The theater boasts known for its music gourmet concessions, with cof- and supported by a fee, wine and beer offered in addition to the abundant standard movie conces- family-like customer base. This is the second year in a row it wins Best Venue/ sion fare. The staff members are known for their excellent customer service. Club for Live Music in town. Whether you favor action-packed adventures, romantic comedies, serious Co-owners Pawley and Heather Thomas opened the pub in 2012, using every drama or child-friendly animation, Millstone 14 has movies for everyone. With cent they had. It was so well received that, following a devastating fire in 2014, multiple auditoriums and show times to fit every schedule, this clean, family- a loyal customer named Ashley Watson started a GoFundMe campaign to bring friendly cinema consistently delivers. the business back to life. Hundreds of customers rallied behind her, and The In addition to first-run and 3-D movies, Millstone 14 often screens perennial Drunk Horse Pub relocated to the Rock Shop Music Hall’s previous location favorites such as “Ferris Beuller’s Day Off.” in 2015. The pub hasn’t stopped growing since, and its music scene is largely For the budget-conscious and those with families, Tuesdays are special-price responsible. days at Millstone 14. The theater also offers military discounts, and there’s a This pub is the place to hear both local bands and national performers, from rewards program open to all patrons. Details are available at the box office. The Doll Skin to Cloud Hands and more. Its customers enjoy the pool table, Ample parking adjacent to the theater makes it easily accessible. drink specials and becoming a part of a great community. Best Local Celebrity Best Local Musician/Band J. Cole Rivermist www.dreamville.com 910-797-7140 or www.rivermistband.com Jermaine Lamar Cole, better known to When Greg Fayetteville and the world as J. Cole, was Adair’s band, raised in Fayetteville. He graduated from Fahrenheit, Terry Sanford High School with a 4.2 GPA. became a thing He won a full scholarship to St. John’s of the past, he University in New York City, where he opted to start graduated magna cum laude. From there, over with a fresh he’s gone on to become a world-renowned, sound. With that, platinum-selling rapper, singer, songwriter, the classic rock record producer and philanthropist. band Rivermist was born in the Cole released his first mixtape, “The summer of 2014. Come Up,” in 2007. Subsequently, he signed Its members have with Jay-Z’s Roc Nation label in 2009 and been performing in Fayetteville for more than 20 years. released two more mixtapes, “The Warm Up” and “Friday Night Lights.” His first The band is made up of five musicians: drummer and backup vocalist Greg studio album, “Cole World: The Sideline Story,” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard Adair, keys player and lead/backup vocalist Doug Bass, lead guitarist Cliff 200 and went platinum. His next two releases, “Born Sinner” and “2014 Forest Bender, bass guitarist Tony Harrison and keys player and lead/backup vocal- Hills Drive,” also went platinum. ist Allen Pier. Although Rivermist is a classic rock band, it’s known for playing a “2014 Forest Hills Drive” earned Cole a Grammy nomination for Best Rap variety of styles, including covers of every artist from Journey to Bruno Mars to Album. Subsequent studio albums, “4 Your Eyez” and “KOD,” debuted atop Earth, Wind & Fire. the Billboard 200 chart. Cole also produces singles for artists such as Kendrick Fans love Rivermist for its engaging, energetic performances, which have Lamar and Janet Jackson in addition to coordinating most of the production taken the band to festivals and events all over the Fayetteville area, not to men- work on his own albums. tion the entire East Coast. His Dreamville Fest, which debuted this April in Raleigh, featured artists like SZA, Big Sean, Savage, 6LACK and Nelly, along with J. Cole himself. The Best of Fayetteville issue is Not only is Cole Fayetteville’s favorite local celebrity, he is also a hometown online all year long! Visit hero. Under the auspices of his philanthropic Dreamville Foundation, Cole regularly reinvests in our community. His Back to School Supply Giveaway gifts www.upandcomingweekly.com. local children with much-needed school supplies. His Book Club for Young Men encourages reading and discussion groups. He also sponsors the Nobody’s Best of Fayetteville Perfect Writing Contest and Mother’s Day Brunch. His annual weekend of Fayetteville community events called the Dreamville Weekend features an Appreciation Dinner and a Career Day panel of African-American professionals in a variety of fields. 12 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019

Thank you for voting us Best Soul Food Restaurant and Best Southern Style Restaurant for 13 years! Eat In •Take Out• Catering 1450 Benvenue rd., 3901 Ramsey st. 1273 N Brightleaf Blvd, 5339 Marracco Dr., Rocky mount, NC 27804 fayetteville, NC 28311 Smithfield, NC 27577 Hope Mills, NC 28348 Also Visit us at: 4205 Fayetteville rd., raleigh, NC 27603 Monday - Friday Lunch: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. | Dinner 4 - 9 p.m. Saturday All Day Dinner 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. | Sunday Dinner all day 11am-8pm Call for Catering • 833.803.9296 Best of Fayetteville JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 13

All Dishes THANK YOU Made From Night life for Voting us Scratch Daily! Best Night Club Overall BEST GERMAN RESTAURANT In Fayetteville! Paddy’s Irish Pub 2606 B Raeford Rd. 910-568-5654 or www.facebook.com/PaddyGibneysIrishPub 910.826.8400 Housing The Church at Paddy’s, Paddy’s Irish Pub is Fayetteville’s best night club. Following a devastating fire in 2015, Paddy’s rebuilt in 2016 and opened 5945 CLIFFDALE ROAD. SUITE 1104 | WWW.MAXANDMORITZFAY.COM The Church the next year. It has been a smashing success ever since. Owner Paddy Gibney believes that God has a sense of humor. Maybe that’s why The Church contains a mural depicting Jesus and his disciples — and a beer. Not to mention some potato chips. The complex represents several world religions as a testament to love, respect and celebration. “It’s a dark time for humor,” Gibney said. “Political correctness has driven many fair-minded people into the nearest Irish pub. Paddy’s is a place where there are no strangers, only friends who have yet to meet.” Along with its all-inclusive perspective, The Church is known for electronic dance music, a party atmosphere, live music and great beer. It plans on add- ing comedy, gameshow and trivia nights to the mix soon. You can even get married here. Everyone (but Wankers) is welcome. Best Place For Girls’ Night Out AQUA Lounge & Night Club 3041 North Main St. 910-835-3118 or www.facebook.com/AquaNiteClub 14 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Girls’ night out doesn’t require pajamas and a cute rom-com anymore. As the only two-level club in Fayetteville, Aqua is known for offering an exciting, one- of-a-kind place for anyone looking to party. The two levels at Aqua are separated by more than just a flight of stairs. Dif- ferent DJs and different parties occupy each floor. Great drinks and dancing are a must. Owners Javier Ortiz and Alex Constas, who have been in business for about five years, work hard to provide a classy, enjoyable and safe experience for customers. Aqua provides a variety of music, including hip hop, Latin, pop and other dance tunes. The club has a full bar with a wide selection of drinks and VIP sec- tions with bottle service, not to mention regular nights where ladies enter free until a designated time. Best of Fayetteville

Best Neighborhood Bar Best Sports Bar Last Call Sports Bar Bubba’s 33 5395 Ramsey St. 910-822-8400 or www.facebook.com/Last-Call-Sports-Bar 500 Westwood Shopping Center 910-223-2601 or www.bubbas33.com Customers rave about Last Call being their home bar, and one visit Bubba’s 33 is all makes it easy to see why. The bar is known for its lively entertainment, about celebration. great service and, most importantly, its friendly environment. Owner Anne Founder Kent “Bubba” Uleman has kept Last Call up and thriving for nearly 17 years, but she gives Taylor had this in mind credit to her hardworking staff for making Last Call the fun and welcoming when he named his place it is today. restaurant after the year prohibition ended, Besides its staff and environment, Last Call has plenty of perks that make 1933. At Bubba’s, that it the place to be on a Friday night. Pool tables, giant Jenga, beer pong, darts, freedom mindset is Texas Hold ’em (on Mondays only, sorry folks), foosball, cornhole, a bowling present everywhere and golf machine and video games offer endless fun. Thirteen huge, flat- you look. Friends, fami- screen TVs line the walls, too. lies and sports team enthusiasts, this place Musical entertainment includes DJs, live bands and — if you’re up to it — is for you. Enjoy classic karaoke. American food (includ- ing the Patriot Burger), Last Call has a wide selection of beer and liquor, with specials almost every local paraphernalia night of the week. Stop by on a Wednesday and have a 12-ounce draft for $1, and, of course, sports and beer. University of North Carolina graduate Kent Taylor, who is also the founder and for example, and see what all Last Call’s loyal customers are talking about. CEO of Texas Roadhouse, opened America’s first Bubba’s right here in Fayetteville in 2013. Today, Bubba’s has nearly 30 locations throughout the United States. Best Bar For Craft Beers Taylor’s goal was to create a sports bar that didn’t sacrifice great food for the sake of a good time. After checking out the mouth-watering menu and entertainment- Dirtbag Ales filled dining area, you could say he reached his goal. Fayetteville manager Joshua Burris ensures customers are treated with the warmth and respect our town is 5435 Corporation Dr., Hope Mills known for. 910-426-2537 or www.dirtbagales.com Bubba’s features a garage bar and a family dining section, not to mention wall- to-wall televisions, so the view is always great. The “33” in Bubba’s is about more Self-proclaimed than prohibition. Stop by for fresh burgers made with 33% bacon, ice-cold beer “Dirtbags” Vernardo and stone-baked, hand-tossed pizzas. (aka Tito), Eric and Jerry brew “for the refined Best Pool Room taste of the common man.” In other words, Corner Pockets they opted to ditch the 2443 Hope Mills Rd. rulebook and pursue 910-779-0101 or www.facebook.com/Corner-Pockets-108306132544796 homegrown craftsman- ship when they started Owner Thom “Commish” Greb started Corner Pockets in 2011. Since then, the Dirtbag Ales, North pool room has moved to a remodeled, 5,000-square-foot location with a spa- Carolina’s first contract cious private parking lot. With eight 7-foot Diamond tables and two 9-foot Dia- brewery, in Tito’s garage. mond tables, Corner Pockets is the perfect place to watch the big game, shoot pool and let loose with the friendly customers and staff. Tito developed a pas- sion for home-brewed It’s the perfect place to host the North American Poolshooters Association beer and stove-top con- nationals, which it does. It also hosts the new United Billiard Leagues tournament. coctions until, at last, he brewed the Kölsch, the Along with its 16 Diamond tables, Corner Pockets offers a full-service kitchen, drink that convinced a room dedicated to playing darts and a 50-foot bar perfect for drinking, eating Eric to invest in what is and watching any of the flat screen televisions. You can also purchase 3-finger now Dirtbag Ales. gloves, lava and predator chalk to step up your game for one of Corner Pockets’ Along with the Blood Orange Kölsch, Dirtbag offers a variety of unique regular tournaments. There’s also karaoke, if you’re feeling brave. As its loyal drinks, including the Cold-Brew Mocha Porter, the W.E.I.N.E.R Mash, the customers say, “COME GET SOME” at Corner Pockets. seasonal Saison de Citrouille for all the pumpkin lovers out there and more. The goal: Have fun and make great beer. JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 15 An experience at Dirtbag is never the same. The bar regularly hosts food trucks, live music and even a weekly outdoor farmers market and monthly self- defense classes during the summer. They’ve been the site of lobster, German and Filipino food offerings. They are planning a few drag brunches and have held a KidsPeace craft day. The variety is endless, and so are the good times. Best of Fayetteville

politics Most Responsive City Politician Most Responsive County Politician Fayetteville City Councilman Johnny Dawkins, District 5 Cumberland County Commissioner Michael Boose 910-433-1992 or www.cityoffayetteville.org 910-678-7771 or www.co.cumberland.nc.us Johnny Dawkins grew up immersed in the importance Some people talk about how much they care of public service and continues his family’s tradition of about the community. Other people show their working to better the community. He is in his second passion through service. Cumberland County Com- term on Fayetteville City Council, after a 12-year break. missioner Michael Boose takes the latter approach. His grandfather, Johnny Sr., served in the North Caro- Boose has practiced law in Fayetteville for more lina House for three years. His father, J.L., served on City than 35 years. He spent several years working as an Council for 12 years and as Fayetteville mayor for 13 years. assistant district attorney in District 2 and Superior Court. He also formerly served as the town attorney As a man of action with almost 40 years of service, for both Hope Mills and Spring Lake. He currently the list of Dawkins’ accomplishments is long. As a practices law in historic downtown Fayetteville as a student at Wake Forest University, he created the Brian senior partner at the Boose Law Offices. Piccolo Drive for Cancer Research, which has raised Boose is much more than a good lawyer. He has a heart for the community. millions of dollars in the last four decades. He’s served in the community in many He was elected to a four-year term as a Cumberland County commissioner at ways, too — on the Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Council and as an large and has served 18 years on the Cumberland County Board of Education. honorary member of the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. He is also a former While there, he was elected to serve four terms as the board’s chairman. honorary wing commander of the 43rd Airlift Wing at Pope Field. He has served on Gov. Pat McCrory appointed Boose the North Carolina chairman of the the board of directors of the Fayetteville Kiwanis Club, on the board of deacons at board of the Federal Military Interstate Compact Commission for Children. Snyder Memorial Baptist Church, on the board of directors of the Fayetteville Tech- Boose also served as a member of the board of trustees for Fayetteville Tech- nical Community College and Fayetteville State University Foundations, on the nical Community College for 12 years, and he is a recipient of the Order of the National Executive Board of the Health Insurance Agent’s association and on the Long Leaf Pine, North Carolina’s highest civilian honor. board of directors of the Care Clinic Foundation. When he is not serving the public, He also served on the board of directors for the Boys and Girls Club of he is a benefits technology consultant at EbenConcepts in Fayetteville. Cumberland County and is a member of the Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club of At the heart of it all is his love for this community and his desire to make Fayetteville, the Greater Fayetteville Chamber, and the Hope Mills Chamber of Fayetteville a more prosperous city that will give citizens a better quality of life. In a Commerce. He supports the Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County, season of big changes for this area, Dawkins knows being available to his constitu- Cape Fear Botanical Garden and Teen Court. All of these activities confirm his ents is important — so much so that he made himself a promise. “My focus is to passion for his community and the fact that he responds to the needs of its people. respond to a citizen within 24 hours,” he said. 16 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

Most Respected Civic Leader after proofreading, if there are no changes and and bindery costs, as well as any costs for reprinting, wh artwork is ready to move into production please sign and return this any error which I may find after the job is printed.” Judge Toni King form to us by one of the following options: 12th Judicial District • Fax: 910.864.0174 Thank You for Voting Us Approved, no changes.  Approved, with changes. • Email: [email protected] • Deliver: 3724 Sycamore Dairy Rd, Suite 100 • Fayetteville, NC BEST BAKERYbeJnucdhgebyTothneinK-iGngovw. BaseavpPpeaAonrnddiyn auettxteeopredinnnestyeo2 fi0netech0su,8erwreaidlln binde tthhee croesllpeoctniosinb iolifty thoifs tdheebpt,u irncchluasdeinr.g court cost ____________________________________________ Signature business cardshas been re-elected in every election since scale: 20%then. In her more than 10 years serving District 12, King has earned a reputation as qty: 1 eacha firm but fair judge with a kind heart. King’s most recent undertaking and yet another reason to respect her is the Cumberland County Human Trafficking Court. Thanks to a grant, the Cumberland County District Court is implementing a human trafficking court, and King has been chosen to preside over it. It’s the first of its kind in the state. The mission of the 23”x35” court is to offer treatment to victims as well as defendants and to help achieve a common understanding of human trafficking. “The depth and breadth of the problem in Cumberland County and across Life’s too short...Eat Dessert First! North Carolina will be exposed,” King said in a news release. With Cumberland County leading the state in human trafficking charges, there is much work for the court to do. Biggest Local Scandal 4.5”x72” CELEBRATING 63 YEARS! Judge April Smith superiorbakerync.com 12th Judicial District 2433 Hope Mills Road•Fayetteville, NC 28304 Perception is reality, especially for those in po- (910) 424-4242 sitions of power. And when negative perceptions are proven real, well, it’s scandalous. Such is the THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST case for Judge April Smith. VETERAN OWNED BUSINESS! Elected to the bench in 2014, Smith presides over Hours: family court, domestic violence and criminal cases. Monday - Saturday 6:00am - 3:00pm A Judicial Standards Commission recom- mended in November 2018 that Smith be repri- Sunday manded for violating the state’s Code of Judicial Closed Conduct. This May, the North Carolin1a8S”uxp2r2em” e Court publicly reprimanded Smith for conduct “prejudicial to the administration of justice.” The commission’s findings said Smith “en- gaged in conduct that created a perception that her judicial duties did not take precedence over her personal commitments and work schedule pref- erences.” That included things like rushing to conclude cases so she could leave early. The ruling also mentioned that lawyers said Smith would an- nounce in court that she was adjourning early so she could go to hair and nail salon appointments and spend time with her child. Her behavior, along with her complaints about her work schedule, were so well-known that there was reportedly a cartoon about it circulating in profes- sional circles. Advertising EST. 2002 Grow Your Business For effective advertising, @THECHOPSHOPTATTOO /CHOPSHOPTATTOOS 2945 HOPE MILLS RD FAYETTEVILLE NC Call 910.484.6200 today! 910.426.INKS CHOPSHOPTATTOOS.COM www.upandcomingweekly.com JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 17 Best of Fayetteville

“FForrieLnifdes” BEST LOCAL PHARMACY (910)-779-4242 (910) 484-6100 (910) 884-3053 3018 North Main Street 2800 Raeford Rd., Ste. 18 4417 Ramsey St. Hope Mills, NC 28348 Fayetteville, NC 28303 Fayetteville, NC 28311 18 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

outdoors Thank You Fayetteville for Voting Us & recreation Best Pediatric Dentist Best Bowling Alley PANTONE SWATCHES USED B&B Lanes 3003 Fort Bragg Rd. Courtesy of MedInf0o32CUomm2u8n7iCcation11s6 U 348 C 910-484-5179 or www.bandblanes.com L to R: Dr. Caldwell, Dr. Yvette Stokes, Dr. Shannitta Bridgers For yet another year, the title of Best Bowling Alley goes to B&B Lanes. A Offering A Full Range Of Dental Services For favorite among seasoned bowlers and newcomers to the sport, B&B Infants • Children • Adolescents has something for everyone. Adult Special Need Patients leagues, senior leagues and adult/ youth “8 for 8” (eight weeks of bowling Services Include for $8 per week, including a free bowl- ing ball) are all popular activities here. Cleaning • Restorative Dentistry Hospital Based Surgery Several youth programs make this place super kid-friendly. Bumper Nitrous Oxide Sedation • Conscious Sedation bowling is a fun favorite for 3- to 7-year-olds. B&B also participates in Visit Us Today To Find the popular summer program Kids Bowl Free, which applies to children • Same Morning Emergency Appointments ages 2-18 from May 24-Aug. 25. Addi- tionally, there are learning leagues for • A Kid-Friendly Atmosphere children of all ages. Modern Facilities • The Latest Technology B&B offers complete birthday party packages as well as group rates 910.485.8749 for almost any event — corporation get-togethers, church groups, sports Office of Yvette McAlister Stokes D.D.S., P.A. banquets or family reunions. 1367 Walter Reed Road, Suite 103 Fayetteville, NC 28304 B&B is open seven days a week and www.highlandpediatricdental.com offers a special every day of the week. M,W 8am-5pm, T,TH 8am-4pm, some Fridays 8am-1pm Best Extreme Activity/Adventure JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 19 ZipQuest - Waterfall & Treetop Adventure 533 Carver Falls Rd. 910-488-8787 or www.zipquest.com As a Travel Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence from 2014-18 recipient and one of USA Today’s top 10 ziplines, it’s no surprise ZipQuest has been selected as this year’s Best Extreme Activity/ Adventure. ZipQuest is a world-class zipline tour and nature adventure. It’s been here for 10 years now. ZipQuest’s multi-zipline course spans acres of pristine forest. Adventurers fly through the treetops while viewing the magnificent Carver’s Falls from different perspectives. Choose between two zipline adven- tures — the shorter Treetop Excursion or the longer Waterfall Expedition. You can also zip under the stars on the NightQuest or experience the thrill of being shot into the forest on the Swing Shot. TeamQuest: Build and Bond is also an option for group-based team building adventures. “ZipQuest is an … aerial adventure unlike anything else in Fayetteville,” said owner Russ Bryan. “Each tour is led by two highly trained tour guides. (Tours) include historical and geographical information about the area and zips over the biggest water east of the Pisgah Forest.” ZipQuest offers military discounts and group discounts. Teachers and stu- dents also receive a Spring Break Appreciation special during spring break. Best of Fayetteville

outdoors & recreation Best Golf Course Best Local Picnic Area Gates Four Golf & Country Club Arnette Park 6775 Irongate Dr. 2165 Wilmington Hwy. 910-425-6667 or www.gatesfour.com 910-433-1547 or www.fcpr.us/Home/Components/FacilityDirectory/ FacilityDirectory/86/2974 Members of Gates Four Golf & Country Club have access to many amenities This 100-acre park is that allow them to enjoy a life of leisure close to home. Gates Four’s stunning a combination of devel- 18-hole championship golf course features both state-of-the art USGA-specified oped facilities and natural greens and recently renovated bunkers, providing a perfect setting for golfers of woodland. Picnic pavilions, all levels. PGA professionals are always available to help with any facet of your ball fields and more make game, from planning an informal golf outing to arranging private lessons or a Arnette Park a popular gath- charity golf event. ering spot for families and large groups. The mile-long Since its grand reopening in May 2011, Gates Four has been welcoming mem- perimeter road is ideal for bers, guests and visitors to its golf course. There’s also a 30,000-square-foot biking and walking. clubhouse and dining at the full-service bar and grill. There are plenty of picnic Gates Four has added two USTA tennis courts, a beautiful 3,600-square-foot areas with grills, and larger outdoor pavilion that can seat up to 250 people and the 10-acre Rockfish Park, sheltered picnic areas can which includes a fitness trail, a toddler play area, swings and a picnic area. Be be reserved by contacting the park office. There are also several playground areas for children to enjoy, along with horseshoes and tennis and volleyball sure to add Gates Four to your list of local spots to visit. courts for a full day of family fun. Each December, Christmas in the Park features a must-see celebration of holiday lights and music. Organized youth baseball, football and soccer games are regularly held here, too. The concession stand is open during peak times. An 18-basket disc golf course is also on-site. Arnette Park is on The Crazy Tourist’s list of the top 15 things to do in Fayetteville. The park is open to the public daily from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. from March through October. Winter hours, November-February, are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Best Fitness Coach Best Place For Taking A Hike, Best Place For Doggie Walk Kasey Adair of Omni Health & Fitness Center Cape Fear River Trail 1400 Walter Reed Rd. 631 Sherman Dr. 910-423-6664 or www.omnifitnesscenter.com/location/fayetteville-nc 910-433-1547 or www.fcpr.us/parks-trails/trails/cape-fear-river-trail Kasey Adair, last The Cape Fear River Trail is a perpetual favorite and longtime winner of these year’s winner in this Best of Fayetteville titles. No matter what brings you to the trail — exercise, relax- category, has been ation, communing with nature, a brisk walk with your human or canine friends — selected again as you will be glad you came. 2019’s Best Fitness Coach. A personal The trail features over 5 miles of 10-foot-wide paved one-way trails through an trainer since 2013, amazing array of trees, plants and wildlife. Walkers, runners and bikers love the Kasey graduated spectacular views of the Cape Fear River. The terrain ranges from flat to slightly from the University hilly. Signs along the trail explain the wildlife and plant life. of North Carolina at Pembroke with a In addition to the wooden bridges, including one covered bridge, there are more bachelor’s degree in than 1,000 feet of boardwalk through the marsh and wetlands along the trail. exercise and sports science. She is a Just under 3 miles of the Cape Fear Mountain Bike Trail is now accessible off of the certified personal Cape Fear River Trail. It consists of two sections on opposite sides of the trail. trainer through Interactive Fitness Trainers of America, an internationally rec- ognized certification for fitness professionals. Parking is available at both ends of the trail: the southern terminus at J. Bayard Adair has been at Omni Health & Fitness Center since 2014 and says that Clark Park Nature Center, 631 Sherman Dr., and the northern terminus at Jordan helping people reach their health and fitness goals is her passion. Her goal with Soccer Complex, 445 Treetop Dr. Amenities include restrooms at both ends of the clients is to get them to a point in their journey where they don’t need her any trail, portable toilets along the trail, and benches, tables and security call boxes. The longer. Many of her clients want more from a personal trainer than just some- trail is open 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to dusk. one to help them get fit. They want to gain enough confidence to come into the gym and work independently. And it’s not always just about weight, muscle- building or self-confidence, either. Many of Adair’s clients are pre- or post-knee surgery, making Adair a sort of “nurse at the gym,” in her words. Kasey’s philosophy as a personal trainer is to be friendly and fun and to be available to clients as their go-to person. She feels her job is to provide encour- agement and guidance to help clients progress to the best of their ability. 20 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

Thank you for voting timothy D. edwards best Divorce attorney Six Years As Best Of Fayetteville Winner blackwellandedwards.com BLACKWELL & EDWARDS Office Location 300 Dick Street, Fayetteville A REPUTATION FOR R E S U LT S 910.483.5176 Best of Fayetteville JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 21

outdoors Best Senior Living Center & recreation Heritage Place 325 N. Cool Spring St. Best Recreation Center 910-323-4925 or www.somerbyseniorliving.com/community/ fayetteville-nc Stedman Recreation Center 175 Circle Dr., Stedman Heritage Place, a Somerby 910-433-1440 or www.fcpr.us/facilities/recreation-centers/stedman Senior Living community, exudes Southern charm. Since it’s This comment posted located in the heart of downtown on the Stedman Parks Fayetteville, residents are within and Rec Facebook page an easy commute of Cape Fear sheds some light on why Botanical Garden, a centuries-old the Stedman Recreation cathedral and downtown shopping Center won this category and entertainment. this year: “I have to say it’s always nice to see a Rec Both independent and assisted center so involved with living options are available. the kids and the families Whichever living arrangement in the community. Walker residents choose, they are assured and his staff are just amaz- companionship, fellowship and a ing, they always go the extra miles for the kids and make sure that everyone has great quality of life. Heritage Place a good time. I just wish … that the City and the County knew how much the features an innovative approach Stedman Community loves them!! to spiritual and physical wellness “They are not just a Rec Center for us … in Stedman, the Rec Center is where that’s rich in opportunities for life- families in the community get together to have fun and play! Thank you, Walker long learning and a fulfilling experience. for all you and your (team’s) hard work!” In addition to comfortable apartments, Heritage Place offers beautifully Regular activities available at the Stedman Recreation Center include youth landscaped grounds, 24-hour security, restaurant-style dining, and house- open gym, adult open gym, a walking track, Cool Kids Cook!, cheer and tumble keeping and laundry services. Planned activities, day trips and getaways give class, Zumba, senior fitness, taekwondo, kids’ movie night, and Friday night residents plenty of opportunities to keep busy and socialize. food, fun and fellowship. There is an on-site theater, beauty salon and barbershop. All levels of assis- Special events that have been held here are Breakfast with the Easter Bunny, tance are available to residents based on their particular needs. Professional Easter Eggstravaganza and Cinco de Bingo. associates offer assisted-living residents help when they need it and inde- pendence when they want it. Nurses and care associates are available 24/7 to assist with health needs and activities of daily living. Thank You Fayetteville! Thank you to all our loyal customers who depend on us for their home and business security. We are proud to be your hometown security company. Protecting What You Can’t Replace For Over 35 Years www.GillSecurity.com 433-2868 22 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

outdoors & recreation Best Shooting Range, Best Place To Buy A Gun, Best Pawn Shop Jim’s Pawn and Gun Jobbery 4632 Yadkin Rd. 910-864-2270 or www.jimspawnshop.com or www.jimsgunwarehouse.com When it comes to either pawning or shooting, Jim’s Pawn Shop and Gun Jobbery on Yadkin Road has, for years, been the obvious stop in Fayetteville. A multiple-category winner in Best of Fayetteville over the years, Jim’s is among the largest pawn shops in the state of North Carolina. Its focus is on firearms, jewelry and electronics. If there’s anything the serious gun owner needs, he or she can probably find it at Jim’s. Jim’s has everything from a wide variety of firearms to ammunition and other shooting accessories. No matter what kind of gun you are looking for, be it defensive, hunting or collectible, Jim’s most likely has it in stock. There is also a fully equipped indoor shooting range and everything needed to practice with either a rifle or a pistol. Range prices vary from $15/hour- $32.50/hour, depending on the number of people shooting and whether you’re on the pistol range or the rifle range. Gun rentals are available, as are lockers and gear for eye and ear protection. Ladies enjoy a free day of shooting every Wednesday, and couples shoot two for the price of one and receive a free target on Thursdays. If you’re a newcomer to gun ownership, Jim’s offers handgun training with its Handgun Safety Course. The cost is $50 and gives the student instruction in the proper methods for handling, storing, maintaining and firing a handgun. The National Rifle Association also offers a concealed handgun course with North Carolina Department of Justice certified instructors at a cost of $100. A one-on- one class in handgun familiarization is also available for $60. Best of Fayetteville What’s Your Scene? Turn to the center calendar every YOUWednesday and see what’s happening around or go online www.upandcomingweekly.com JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 23

910-485-1188 2911 Fort Bragg Rd. Fayetteville, NC The Area’s Premier Spa, Pool and Billiard Headquarters www.hallmarkspapools.com Proudly Celebrating 51 Years! Congratulates the AIRBORNE & SPECIAL OPERATIONS MUSEUM Thank You Fayetteville! Best Museum Best Thing to Show Off to Visitors To our voters and our valued customers we appreciate your votes for Museum and Gift Shop Hours 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon – 5 p.m. Sunday Closed Monday and Federal holidays. Open Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Veteran’s Day. 100 Bragg Boulevard • Historic Downtown Fayetteville, NC 910.643.2766 www.asomf.org MAGAZINE EImpnospwierre.. CEedluecbartaet.e. 910-813-8192 facebook.com/pg/WomensViewMagazine • 910-484-6200 910-500-3711 Best of Fayetteville 24 UCW JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019

media Best Traffic Report, Best Weather Report Best Area TV Station NBC5 WRAL 2619 Western Blvd., Raleigh ABC11 WTVD 919-821-8555 or www.wral.com/fayetteville 201 Hay St., Suite 1111 https://abc11.com/fayetteville No matter how technology chang- es and how fast-paced life is, there are two things people check before they head out the door each day: traffic and weather. Missing the mark on a rainy day or mistiming your commute can ruin even the best morning. That’s why it is important to get it right. And NBC5 WRAL does just that. Meteorologist Elizabeth Gardner has local ties, too, as she married a Fayetteville native. WRAL has been providing Fayetteville with timely and accurate weather and traffic reports for years. And it doesn’t look like that is going to change any time soon. Best Local Columnist/Writer The Fayetteville Observer columnist Bill Kirby [email protected] While this community doesn’t have its own television station, Durham-based Bill Kirby has been telling Fayetteville’s stories since he ABC11 WTVD provides ample local coverage and does have a satellite office started his career at The Fayetteville Observer in 1971. He’s in downtown Fayetteville. From good news stories to weekend events, school garnered more than his fair share of wins as our readers’ delays and closures, it’s ABC11 that our readers turn to for newsworthy televi- favorite local columnist — and with good reason. Kirby sion coverage. Fayetteville reporters like Morgan Norwood and Akilah Davis are knows this community. He knows its people and the places the faces we know and love. and organizations that make it special. And he’s great at shin- ing a spotlight on the goodness that resides in this region. Humor, insight and thoughtfulness are his trademarks, and they are a big part of why our readers love him. Congratulations on another Best of Fayetteville win, Bill! FayettevilleNC.gov Thanks for your vote! Best of Fayetteville 13 Years Best Indian Restaurant Best Vegaannd nRoewstaurant Best Vegetarian Restaurant OSvperec4aiar8oliuzsipnnedgcitiahnletVywebgoeereltdras!rifarnom 910.487.0020 ww59w4.5boCmLbIFaFyDbAisLtrEoRfaOy.AcDom JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 25

Thank You Large Jewelry Selection On Site Jewelry Repair Fayetteville Concealed Carry & Other Firearms Training Available Best Pawn Shop Best Shooting Range Best Place to Buy a Gun Remodeled & Expanded Jewelry Department Remodeled & Expanded Pawn Shop Expanded Firearms Department Professional Indoor Shooting Range 4632 Yadkin Rd. • Fayetteville, NC (910) 864-2270 Best of Fayetteville is online all year long! Best of Fayetteville www.upandcomingweekly.com 26 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019

wine Best North Side Restaurant & dine Scrub Oaks Contemporary American Pub 5780 Ramsey St., Suite 108 910-884-3072 or www.scruboaks.com Best Restaurant Overall, Best Fine Dining, For the seventh Best Italian Restaurant consecutive year, Scrub Oaks wins the designation of best Luigi’s Italian Chophouse & Bar place to eat on the north side 528 N. McPherson Church Rd. of Fayetteville. According 910-864-1810 or www.luigisnc.com to the consistently high praise and online reviews Peter Parrous immigrated from Greece and then from its customers, this is discovered his passion for cooking while serving in due to friendly waitstaff and the U.S. Army during World War II. In the early 1950s, amazing food. he opened a spaghetti house featuring his mother’s treasured recipes in downtown Fayetteville. Operating This casual restaurant with for over 20 years by the Parrous, Kotsopoulos and a welcoming ambience is a Higgins families from its current location, Luigi’s still great place to go for relaxing uses those same recipes. But it has also expanded the menu to include fresh fish, social or business lunches, hand-cut steaks and chops and gourmet pasta dishes. intimate dinners, office celebrations and after-work Around 2000, the restaurant began to focus on fine wines and was the first drinks with colleagues. Scrub restaurant in Fayetteville to feature weekly wine tastings. Since then, the owners Oaks can also accommodate larger gatherings and business dinner meetings in have built a nationally recognized wine selection with more than 1,500 wines from its attractive private dining room. around the world, winning a prestigious Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator Popular menu items include soft-shell crab, Baja fish tacos, shrimp and scallop Magazine every year since 2003. Luigi’s Thursday night wine tasting events include lollipops and Scrub Oaks’ renowned grilled ribeye steak. The menu also features a selection of wines from its cellar and also seek to educate patrons’ palates to the burgers any way you want them. An outstanding favorite from the dessert menu nuances of fine wines. Friday and Saturday nights feature live music in the lounge. is the caramel cheesecake. Scrub Oaks’ wrap-around bar is a cozy place to relax with your cocktail of Due in large part to its excellent waitstaff and upscale ambience, Luigi’s is the choice, a selection from its wine list or a draft of the craft beer offered on tap. In place to go for a special dinner, a business lunch, a family get-together or even a addition to quaffing a convivial adult beverage, folks can enjoy live music on the large party. The restaurant can accommodate private parties from 15-100 people. In weekends, trivia on Tuesday nights, or football and other seasonal sports on a addition to outstanding cuisine and service, Luigi’s regularly features an assortment lazy Sunday afternoon. of live music. For decades, perennial favorite Luigi’s has been firmly established as a The All American Freeway and I-295 make Scrub Oaks easily accessible from fine dining experience for locals and visitors alike. all parts of the county. Best of Fayetteville thank you for your support Best Thai Cuisine Call for Take Out 910-491-0256 2429 Robeson St., Fayetteville JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 27

NONA SUSHIThank you Fayetteville for voting us wine BEST SUSHI & dine 3 YEARS IN A ROW Best Downtown Restaurant, Best Sunday Brunch 2 LOCATIONS IN FAYETTEVILLE: Circa 1800 910.920.2400 | 4411 Ramsey St. #112 • 910.703.8986 | 5075 Morganton Rd. 108 Person St. 910-568-4725 or www.thecirca1800.com 28 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Circa 1800, located just down the block from the Market House traffic circle, is known for taking full advantage of the bounteous products of North Carolina farms, breweries, distilleries and bakeries. Its intimate bar is fully stocked with a careful selection of spirits, including many from North Carolina — whiskey, vodka, gin and rum. On tap, you’ll drink only beer brewed in this state, a list that is rotated periodically. A popular bar feature invites patrons to build their own Bloody Mary. Circa 1800 features an extensive seasonal, Southern menu. Brunch is served Saturday and Sunday. It includes delightfully different renditions of classic brunch items using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The lunch menu includes sandwiches, wraps, salads and other favorites like shrimp and grits and the 1800 Burger. The dinner menu is filled with a selection of imaginative twists on classic entrees, each served with vegetables cooked to perfection. Circa 1800 accepts reservations Monday through Thursday. It is owned by Brandy Puczylowski, who’s worked in the restaurant business since she was 16. According to Circa 1800’s website, “We don’t strive to be the fastest, we strive to be the best. Good food takes time, so enjoy your company.” Best Dining With Kids Chuck E. Cheese 511 North McPherson Church Rd. 910-487-3023 or www.chuckecheese.com If you are looking for the ultimate in family fun for a night out with the kids, Chuck E. Cheese is a favorite that’s been in business here for 30-plus years. The Fayetteville location is helmed by manager Twana Canty and staffed by helpful and friendly employees. There are the games — lots of them — at Chuck E. Cheese. There are stand-up, multi-player and interactive games with a wide selection of child-appropriate options. In addition, there is a Kid’s Corner where children can enjoy watching videos. There’s something to keep everybody occupied and entertained while waiting for your food to be served. Pizza is featured on the menu along with a selection of salads, sandwiches and wings. Adults and kids are sure to find choices that please even picky eaters. According to their many satisfied customers, the food is fresh and appetizing. Best of all, every hour on the half hour, Chuck E. Cheese himself makes an appearance, featuring fresh dance moves, to do a show for the crowd. Check the website to find out about rewards programs, holiday events, birthday parties and lots of other activities. The restaurant’s tagline, “Where a kid can be a kid,” makes the Chuck E. Cheese dining experience one that the whole family can enjoy. Best of Fayetteville

Best New Restaurant Best Local Caterer, Best Waitstaff/Service, Best Seafood Restaurant Drop by the River Seafood 1130 Person St. Peaden’s Seafood & Catering 1600 McArthur Rd. 910-920-3694 or www.facebook.com/dropbytheriverseafood 910-488-1972 or www.peadens.com Yamani Albert, proprietor of Drop by the River Seafood, got his start in Family owned and operated, Peaden’s Seafood & Catering has been bringing the Fayetteville restaurant business with his bi-weekly, 300-pound “seafood Calabash to Fayetteville since 1972. Voted Best Caterer last year, Peaden’s drops.” Every other week, he drove from Georgia to Fayetteville with around has so impressed its customers that it added Best Waitstaff/Service and Best 300 pounds of seafood. He cooked it for his customers using the facilities of Seafood Restaurant to its accolades this year. local restaurants and caterers. When the drop mushroomed to around 8,000 pounds, he opened Straight Drop Seafood on South Reilly Road. Drop by the Peaden’s specializes in Eastern North Carolina-style barbecue and true River is his latest seafood restaurant. Southern-fried chicken, as well as some of the best seafood on the Eastern seaboard. And they’re famous for their hushpuppies. Inspired by seafood cooks from the Georgia coast, Albert combined this style with a bit of Florida-infused cooking to create the restaurant’s menu. Drop by The dining room offers a down-home feeling, and the waitstaff is fast-paced the River boasts that it serves the biggest platters in the city. and friendly, always serving your dinner with a smile. The banquet room is spacious. It can accommodate as many as 200 guests for your special events, and Popular items include steam plate platters, shrimp and grits, shrimp Alfredo, your own personal decorations are welcome. and Sgt. Roy fries — a combination of fries, crabmeat and mozzarella cheese. Steamed crab legs, lobster and shrimp are also available. With 47 years’ experience and a huge heart for the community, Peaden’s has earned a top spot as one of Fayetteville’s favorite family restaurants. The restaurant’s Facebook page boasts a 4.7 review average out of a possible 5, based on the responses of 472 people. Best Brew House Best Place For A Romantic Dinner, Best Appetizers Mash House Brewing Company & Restaurant 4150 Sycamore Dairy Rd. Antonella’s Italian Ristorante 300 Hay St. 910-867-9223 or www.themashhouse.com 910-486-0046 or www.facebook.com/Antonellas-Italian- Ristorante-1231244156989396 Mash House Brewing Company & Restaurant, probably the oldest Antonella’s Italian brewery in Cumberland County, Ristorante, voted Best New is a repeat winner of Best Brew Restaurant a year ago, House in Fayetteville. Its hand- continues to impress the crafted beers are made on-site denizens of Fayetteville. in the tradition of old-world Antonella Scibilia is the breweries, using no preservatives owner and operator. She and only the finest ingredients: specializes in the Southern malted barley, hops, yeast Italian cuisine she learned and pure water. With 18 years’ as a child working in her experience and a flair for mixing father’s restaurant. Each it up and creating new brews, this recipe is handed down from establishment also creates drinks one generation to the next that win at nationwide festivals and is always made with the and competitions. The expertise freshest ingredients. and innovation of Brewmaster Reuben Stocks, who’s been with The charming interior Mash House since 2012, is to be makes Antonella’s one of applauded. Fayetteville’s most exciting and elegant venues for General manager Steve lunch and dinner. Its Groveunder, who’s been at Mash outside dining, with views of House for five years, has over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry beautiful Hay Street, makes — and it shows. With two private dining rooms, Mash House can accommodate it ideal for warm, romantic private dinners for groups of 30 or more and provide an intimate dining evenings with someone experience with a top-notch staff. Groveunder also purchases locally every special. Mozzarella caprese, chance he can get and puts on community events like trivia events, beer dinners bruschetta and baked lasagna top the list of delicious appetizers, but the and parking lot parties. entire menu reflects the enthusiasm Antonella has for her craft. Mash House also boasts an amazing culinary team who specialize in Antonella’s doesn’t accept reservations, and it’s one of the most popular delivering everything from gourmet fusion dishes to casual fare. They monitor venues in Fayetteville, so try and arrive early. And be sure to check out the the culinary world closely and change the menu constantly to ensure the impressive wine list — you won’t be disappointed. clientele are always pleasantly surprised by innovative dishes. Since many of the ingredients are purchased from local and North Carolina growers, you can bet Best of Fayetteville your meal will taste fresh. JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 29

30 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

wine & dine Best Wine Shop Best Business Lunch The Wine Café Huske Hardware House 108 Hay St. 405 Hay St. 910-437-9905 or www.huskehardware.com 910-779-2766 or www.thewinecafeus.com The Wine Café is a repeat winner Based in the in the Best Wine Shop category for 116-year-old-historic good reason. Owner Angie Malave has Huske Hardware created a unique experience for wine building built by connoisseurs by merging a tasting Benjamin R. Huske room and a boutique-quality wine on historic Hay Street, shop. Malave offers handpicked wines Huske Hardware from all over the world along with House has been a craft beers. downtown staple for more than 20 years. The wine room can be reserved for Huske’s rustic and special events and offers handmade cozy interior covers appetizers, free Wi-Fi and a projector two floors and wraps for presentations. The staff is famously around its signature polite and always willing to help you American-made, make a great wine choice. stainless steel, 15-barrel brewing system. It has outdoor seating, too. With three fermenters, it’s able to produce 500 gallons of full-flavored beer Located on Hay Street in the historic a week. The menu is inventive and well-rounded. From rich pasta dishes and district of downtown Fayetteville, The seafood to traditional bar fare and a kids menu, there’s something delicious to Wine Café is the perfect spot to stop accommodate everyone. and sample wines and cheeses while Huske Hardware House offers a full range of catering and can accommodate people-watching or unwinding from a as many as 55 people for special events, making it an ideal location for a business stressful week. There’s an impressive lunch. The second floor offers privacy and scenic views of Hay Street. Located variety of events throughout the year near Fort Bragg and in the heart of downtown Fayetteville, it’s the perfect that happen here, from live music most weekends to Argentina Night to Wine location with the perfect menu for all of your professional luncheon needs. and Yoga. Military Mondays feature a discount for military members. Best Food Truck Best Breakfast, Best Greek Cuisine R Burger Zorba’s Gyro 814 Larkspur Dr. 2919 Raeford Rd. or 3114 N. Main St., Suite 106 910-484-1010 or 910-424-3332 or 910-527-1467 or www.facebook.com/Rburgertruck www.zorbasgyro.com Tommy Frangakis settled in Fayetteville in 1961, having emigrated to the R Burger, Fayetteville’s United States from Greece three years earlier. Zorba’s Gyro opened its doors premier high-quality mobile in 1974, and the rest is history — family history, that is. Tommy’s son John has food vendor, has only been continued alongside his father since 1996. in service for four years. But it comes as no surprise that It might surprise visitors that Zorba’s has Fayetteville’s Best Breakfast and it’s already the best food Greek Cuisine, two very different categories. But locals are anything but truck in town. With 15 years shocked. Zorba’s breakfast menu boasts everything from three-egg cheese of experience between the omelets to country ham biscuits to blueberry buttermilk pancakes. Come back two of them, owners Rob for lunch or dinner for Zorba’s famous slow-roasted lamb or beef gyros, great and Mary Russell knew what with authentic tzatziki sauce, or try a hot sub. Customers are especially fond of they were doing when they the Wednesday special, Zorba’s spaghetti. decided to start a business that uses fresh beef — For dessert, Zorba’s offers Marina’s brownies, cheesecake and traditional ground daily — and original Greek baklava — a pastry made of phyllo dough and crushed nuts soaked hamburger recipes that will make your mouth water. R Burger also makes it a in honey. point to source its fresh beef and buns locally. R Burger’s menu includes offerings like the Southern Burger, made with homemade pimento cheese, grilled onion and mustard; the Carolina Burger, with chili slaw, onion and mustard; and the Jalapeño Colby Jack Burger, which is pretty self-explanatory. There are also specialty hot dogs, fresh-cut fries and brat patties. Want something more experimental? You can always build your own burger or hot dog. R Burger has served at places like Bright Light Brewing Company, Dirtbag Ales and Westwood Shopping Center, among other locations, so it’s not hard to spot them. And don’t worry about breaking the bank — without extra toppings, everything on the menu is $6 or less. “We always strive to achieve R motto of ‘Love people. Serve them tasty food,’ the owners said. We make R friends happy! We R always grateful for R loyal following.” Best of Fayetteville JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 31

wine & dine THANK YOU Best Coffee House FOR VOTING US Rude Awakening BEST MOTORCYCLE DEALER - NEW 227 Hay St. BEST MOTORCYCLE DEALER - USED 910-223-7833 or www.rudeawakening.net BEST MOTORCYCLE SERVICE In 1998, Molly and Bruce Arnold sought shelter in front of the empty, condemned Baker American Cycles Baker Motorsports location in downtown Fayetteville that 1508 Hope Mills Rd. 3700 Sycamore Dairy Rd. would someday become their coffee shop. Fayetteville, NC Twenty years and one remodel later, Rude 910.423.1901 Fayetteville, NC Awakening is still a beloved go-to for 910.920.1510 coffee drinkers. www.bakeramericancycles.com Along with their goal to brew great coffee, the Arnolds aim to provide good jobs for ALL THE MORE REASON TO good people, be a part of their community and welcome any and every customer to Shop Local sit down for a hot or cold cup. The folks at Rude Awakening take quality service very Available online seriously because they love their customers for you to search and, in their own words, “coffee is life.” for your favorite shops! Rude Awakening’s menu is diverse. The baristas can make your coffee any way you www.upandcomingweekly.com want — espresso, drip, hot, cold, blended, 32 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 with coffee cubes, black, sweet, latte, pumpkin pie, cold brew, Cuban, breve, peppermint mocha, cappuccino, Nitro, mocha — you name it. The shop also has a plethora of sandwiches and pastries, like cheese croissants and gluten-free brownies, to go with your drink. Best Deli New Deli 2153 Valleygate Dr., Suite 1 910-223-3082 or www.mynewdeli.com/home.aspx New Deli has been a Best of Fayetteville winner every year since 2011, including wins for Best Catering, Best Dessert and Best Business Lunch. When a person thinks of a “happy place,” a deli is usually not the first establishment that comes to mind. But after visiting New Deli, you might change your opinion. When you step inside, the unique décor will make you feel as if you’re eating inside an “Alice in Wonderland” garden. The only difference is that Tara, the best front-of-house manager ever, is much nicer than the Queen of Hearts. Fresh, delicious, healthy food and awesome service create a healthy eating heaven here, 13 years and going strong. Owners Stephen Brown and Michael Reyes try to source most of their ingredients locally, too. Whether you choose a panini, pizza, salad, sub, flat or wrap, you can be confident your food will be served quickly, at just the right temperature and with a smile. You can also order online and have your food waiting for you when you arrive. Make sure to save room for dessert. New Deli’s loaded strawberries and gigantic dessert apples are always a hit. New Deli also offers a variety of catering options. Reasonable prices and dependable service make New Deli a go-to caterer for meetings, parties and all your other functions. Best of Fayetteville

Best German Restaurant Max & Moritz Bakery & Restaurant 5945 Cliffdale Rd. 910-826-8400 It is unsurprising that Max & Moritz takes the cake as the best German bakery and restaurant in town. This repeat winner serves up a full menu of authentic German breakfast, lunch, dinner and vegetarian-friendly options, along with desserts that are baked fresh and vary daily. Owner Petra Volcy fills the menu with recipes handed down from her mother, who still lives in Germany. Volcy’s daughter, Nadine Dobeneck, makes the German cakes and cookies from scratch. Some of the more popular dishes are German staples like bratwurst, goulash, sauerkraut and spaetzle. Another favorite dish is the Beef Rouladen Plate, a meal that features browned beef, bacon, onions and pickles roasted alongside homemade gravy. With its European ambience, the restaurant is small in size, making way for a more familial and intimate dining experience. If your schedule allows no time for you to sit down and savor a bite, you can order your meal over the phone and pick it up instead. Whether in the restaurant or on the go, you’ll taste a bit of Germany in every bite. Best Indian Restaurant New & Nearly New Tandoori Bites 44 Thrift Shop 1916 Skibo Rd. 910-339-2222 Thank You For Voting Us Best Thrift Store! If you ever want an authentic ALMOST EVERYTHING OF VALUE taste of India, dine at Tandoori Bites. Nestled in a modern, MNEeWrch&aUndSiEsDe sleek and stylish environment, this popular restaurant offers TEDHXKIPRFIEIFNFREATDIRESOENHNFCOTEP! a variety of Indian cuisine, including dishes like chicken FurniHtuorme,eADpepcloiarnacneds,MOuffcihceMFourren!iture, tikka masala, lamb curry and classic naan bread. MON - SAT 9:30AM - 5:30PM Fans praise the restaurant’s cleanliness. With a large selection of specialty dishes that feature basmati rice, seafood and goat, you have many options — 810 Bragg Blvd., Fayetteville, NC 28301 • www.nearlynewthriftshop.com including vegetarian ones — to taste traditional Indian treats. JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 33 Desserts include kheer, which is a special rice pudding made with cashews, and kulfi badam pista, a traditional Indian ice cream. Indian dishes are known for their spiciness, and Tandoori Bites doesn’t shy away. Entrees come with mild, medium, hot or very hot options. When you make plans to eat here, be sure to choose your spice level wisely. Best Japanese Restaurant Miyabi Japanese Steak & Seafood House 1990 Skibo Rd. 910-864-5987 or facebook.com/miyabifay Located in the heart of Fayetteville, Miyabi Japanese Steak & Seafood House is the perfect restaurant to dine with a large group of family or friends. From the moment one steps into the restaurant, they’ll notice that the Miyabi staff intentionally focuses on their customers’ holistic dining experience. With skilled artistry, mesmerizing knife work, fire tricks and perfect comedic timing, the chefs make sure to put on a good show while they prepare your meal on a grill directly in front of you. Can’t take the heat? Experience the full-service sushi bar. There, you’ll find an array of fresh sushi options. Top your experience off with black sesame-, green tea- or mango-flavored mochi ice cream. Best of Fayetteville

34 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 wine & dine Best Korean Restaurant E Tae Won Express 594 S. Reilly Rd., Suite 100 910-867-1077 Nami, the owner of E Tae Won Express, serves up affordable, family- friendly dining options for enjoying traditional Korean cuisine. She’s been doing so for more than 15 years. Located on Reilly Road, E Tae Won’s full menu includes classic dishes like bulgogi, galbi, kimchi, kimbap, yaki mandu and more. Known for its convenient lunch buffet, E Tae Won Express is a great place to get authentic, flavorful Korean dishes for a cost-effective price. Takeout is also an option if you find yourself in a hurry. Or, items can be ordered off of the menu if you’re in a more leisurely sit-down mood. Fresh ingredients featured in each dish and outstanding service that makes customers feel at home serve as markers of this restaurant’s extraordinary quality. Best Chinese Restaurant Hunan Garden 2726 Raeford Rd. 910-323-3778 or www.fayettevillehunangarden.com Located on Raeford Road, Hunan Garden serves as a cornerstone to the city and community of Fayetteville. With its authentic Chinese cuisine paired alongside its excellent service, it’s no wonder why it’s crowned with the title of Best Chinese Restaurant in the city. Hunan Garden’s staff commit to serving customers with excellence, ensuring that only fresh, high-quality ingredients are used in every dish served. Don’t have the time to sit down and dine? Hunan Garden offers both delivery and takeout options for its customers. Though it does offer traditional plates, Hunan Garden is best known for its modern spins on classic Chinese dishes. The full menu showcases many different options that feature beef, poultry, seafood and pork. On top of that, there are vegetarian options and dessert. Best Vietnamese Restaurant Saigon Bistro 1040 Bragg Blvd. 910-920-3578 Customers rave about Saigon Bistro. As a privately owned restaurant, Saigon has the feel of a mom-and-pop eatery with the flavors of a five-star establishment. It’s the perfect recipe for a longstanding local gem. Most of its reviews do, in fact, have five stars, like this one: “I’ve been to many Vietnamese restaurants, but this one is by far my favorite. My husband and I made it a tradition to come to Saigon Bistro when (we) want to go out to eat.” Saigon serves everything from pho tai (beef noodle soup) to banh pho xao chay (vegetarian pad thai) to ga xao xa ot (lemongrass chicken) and more. Anything on the menu pairs well with a strawberry, avocado, mango or strawberry-banana smoothie — or maybe try an imported beer. “The food is clearly authentic Vietnamese food … It truly deserves all the great reviews it is getting,” said one customer. Fresh Vietnamese flavors, along with gushing reviews, have won this category for Saigon Bistro year after year. Best of Fayetteville

Best Thai Restaurant Fayetteville’s largest and most google 5-STAR rated cellphone & computer repair shop! Prik Thai Cuisine Lifetime Warranty on most repairs. 2429 Robeson St. We can fix that! 910-491-0256 or www.facebook.com/PrikThaiCuisine • Lifetime Warranty on most repairs Customers fawn over it, claiming it’s the only • Same Day Service - often within the hour restaurant of its kind in Fayetteville. Prik Thai, a • Award Winning Service homey Thai restaurant with 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor, is loved for its friendly service, generous portions, 4 LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU low prices and flavorful Thai spices. For six years, owner Worawan “Candy” Zendejas and her staff have Skibo Road - Main Branch gone out of their way to accommodate customer 1928 Skibo Rd. Suite 128 | Fayetteville, NC 28304 needs, including offering several ways to order and several levels of spice. 910.275.4334 Zendejas said her business started skyrocketing Cross Creek Mall Fayetteville Hope Mills soon after she opened through word-of-mouth, Walmart Facebook posts and Instagram posts. “My staff and I SEARS Wing Raeford Rd. Walmart 910.446.2511 also make customers feel like they’re at home; it is a family,” she said. One customer says Prik Thai’s best dishes are the pad thai, drunken noodles, 910.556.9349 910.518.5610 pineapple fried rice and orange chicken. He also insists that the restaurant is “easily the best Thai in Fayetteville.” You can wash down your meal with anything from JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 35 sweet tea to coconut juice, and finish with the fried banana or mango & sticky rice for dessert. Prik Thai also has a small Chinese menu with all the classics. Best Sushi Restaurant NONA Sushi 5075 Morganton Rd., Unit 5 or 4411 Ramsey St., Suite 112 910-703-8986 or www.facebook.com/NONA-SUSHI-125876501198931 NONA Sushi has won this category for three years in a row now, reflecting the fact that it’s been a Fayetteville favorite since the day it opened. The restaurant offers traditional Japanese specialties in a beautiful, classy environment to give customers the best experience possible. Crowd favorites from the menu include the crunchy crab roll, chicken hibachi, spicy salmon roll and the Fort Bragg roll. A wide selection of sake is available to complement any dinner. Owner Fuma Kurniawan creates a welcoming environment where customers are treated with the Golden Rule in mind. It’s no wonder that last year NONA opened up a new location on Ramsey Street to expand its reach to the north side of town. NONA is a military-friendly establishment that caters specifically to Fayetteville’s unique community — including the tech-savvy side. You can order online at https:// nonasushi.ontrayapp.com and have food delivered to your front door, courtesy of SpeedWaiter and Table Delivery. Best Mediterranean Restaurant Olea Mediterranean Kitchen 1992 Skibo Rd. 910-745-8415 or www.oleamediterranean.com This Greek and Mediterranean-inspired fresh, fast and casual restaurant is fairly new to Fayetteville, having opened in March of 2018. So the fact that it won a Best of Fayetteville award this year shows the owners and staff are doing something right. Whether you visit for fresh and healthy options, house-made spreads and dressings or its build-your-own service style, you need only try the food once to see why everyone is raving about Olea. One Trip Advisor reviewer said, “Pleasant atmosphere and outstanding customer service! They have the best Lamb Gyro I ever taste(d) after being in Germany(,) and the Greek salad, hummus supreme and the baklava are super delicious too. I will continue trying different plates, my husband and I really enjoy each visit to this awesome restaurant.” If you’re now dreaming of hummus and falafel, stop in to see how this new restaurant so quickly gained the city’s heart (and taste buds). Best of Fayetteville

wine Best Soul Food Restaurant, & dine Best Southern-Style Restaurant Best Mexican Restaurant Fred Chasons Grandsons 3901 Ramsey St. or 5339 Marracco Dr. Mi Casita Mexican Restaurant 910-491-5756 or 910-860-4899 or www.grandsonsbuffet.com Various locations 910-677-0001 or www.micasitarestaurants.com To say Fred Chasons Grandsons has dominated these categories in the Best of Fayetteville competition is an understatement. Year after year since the business For 29 years, Mi Casita Mexican was founded, it has taken home the top prize. Restaurant has been a staple in the Fayetteville community. While dining at The reasons are simple. Grandsons offers the comforts of home cooking and Mi Casita, you can expect great service is a place where everyone is welcome to sit at the table and enjoy a variety of in a warm atmosphere filled with vibrant offerings. Everybody is a part of the family, and the recipes taste like they came energy and enthusiasm. Serving an array straight out of your Southern grandma’s cookbook. of authentic Mexican food, Mi Casita’s menu has something for everyone, That is exactly the atmosphere owners Sheryl and Todd Warga are hoping including plenty of different margaritas. for. “Our customers are the best because they are family,’’ they said. “We are a family-owned business, and we want our customers to feel that when they walk Since 1990, Mi Casita — meaning through the door.’’ Todd is one of the two grandsons of Fred Chason, who gave “my little house” — has expanded to the establishment its name, the other being Matt Warga. 18 locations throughout Cumberland and nearby counties. Each location With classic Southern favorites like mashed potatoes, black-eyed peas, pulled is committed to upholding the great pork and more populating the menu, it’s no wonder Grandsons continues reputation that the original restaurant to grow. Matt Warga opened the first restaurant in the expanding enterprise, has earned. and it has spread from Hope Mills to Fayetteville and now to Raleigh at 4205 Fayetteville Rd. Grandsons offers catering, too. Mi Casita also offers a drop-off catering option designed for 15 or more people. The restaurants can accommodate meetings, birthday parties or large get-togethers. As everyone with an Instagram or Facebook account knows, birthday guests at Mi Casita are crowned with a giant sombrero and serenaded by employees. Thank you for voting Most Responsive County Politician 910.486.9292 Best of Fayetteville 36 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019

Best Vegetarian Cuisine, Best Vegan Cuisine Best Bakery Bombay Bistro Superior Bakery 5945 Cliffdale Rd., Suite 1101 2433 Hope Mills Rd. 910-487-0020 or www.bombaybistrofay.com 910-424-4242 or www.superiorbakerync.com Bombay Bistro is known for its authentic, belly-warming Indian food. Bombay Superior has all the classics, like lamb kebabs and curry, but especially unique to Bombay Bakery has a is its vast assortment of vegan and vegetarian dishes. rich tradition of service to After 15 years in business, owner Anila Kishan has perfected Bombay’s Fayetteville and vegetarian menu. It includes delicacies such as vegetable kheema, aloo Cumberland dhum, malai kofta and vegetable biryani, to name a few. Bombay is known for County, dating accommodating vegan requests as well. Some ingredients on the menu include back to 1956 when coconut milk, cauliflower, potatoes, cashews, tomatoes and a plethora of the it was founded by colorful spices Indian food is known for. John S. Poulos. Complete your meal with one of the many desserts offered at Bombay, like Poulos came to rice khir or carrot hulva, followed with masala chai, an Indian spiced tea, or rose the United States milk, among other beverages. With their non-vegetarian menu, you can bring from his native your meat-loving friends to eat there, too. Greece in 1951. After working as a dishwasher, he saved up enough money to buy a defunct bakery on Raeford Road. He married Kay Paliouras in 1958, and the couple grew the business until it relocated to its current location in 1971. Poulos retired in 1988, and the business stayed in the family as son Nickos took over. In May of this year, Superior Bakery earned the distinction of being ranked as the No. 26 bakery in the United States by the Yelp business directory service. One longtime customer of Superior Bakery recently shared this review on Facebook. “I have loved this bakery for 40 years,’’ she said. “If you like a German-style breakfast, go buy their brotchen rolls baked fresh every morning. I could eat a half dozen of their glazed croissants. They’re amazing. They have a wonderful variety of lots of other delicious bakery items too.’’ Best of Fayetteville JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 37

Thank you for Voting Us wine & dine Best Barber Shop Best Desserts “Men’s Grooming Lounge” Sweet Boutique 2 LOCATIONS SPECIALIZING IN 735 Cross Creek Mall, Suite 200 919-429-2253 or www.sweetboutiquebakery.com 630 N. 630 N. Traditional Bragg Blvd. Reilly Rd. Men's Hair Cuts Another award Spring Lake Fayetteville for Best Desserts 910.491.8682 910.339.9842 Razor Fades goes to Sweet Classic Face Boutique, located in Belk at the Shaves Cross Creek Mall. This is its fifth Best of Fayetteville win, including one year when it won in two categories. Sweet Boutique is veteran-friendly and family- owned. Founder and owner Nicole Sullivan has been committed to wowing customers with creative cakes and incredible tastes since 2007. She grew up cooking in her Grandmother Carrie and Aunt Mae’s kitchens through her early culinary years and was educated at the Institute of Culinary Education in New York. All of Sullivan’s delicious sweets are made from scratch with quality ingredients and will bring a little more happiness to your day, whether you go for a cake pop, cupcake or a slice of scrumptious cake. Stick to the classics with the legendary red velvet cake, or venture out with the sweet potato cheesecake with buttered rum mousse. If you’re looking for something even more special, Sweet Boutique’s artisans are ready to bring your ideas to life with custom creations that are as beautiful as they are delicious. Best BBQ Southern Coals Country Style Kitchen 3319-C Raeford Rd. 910-745-7675 or www.southerncoals.com www.pinkyschopshop.com Shop Local Visit the many shops The best. Period. That’s the only thing the folks at Southern Coals are located in downtown interested in being a part of. It’s about serving the best food and providing the 38 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 best service you’ve ever experienced at a barbecue establishment. Fayetteville! One trip to Southern Coals and you’ll soon realize that the rest is just that — the rest. Everything from tasty ribs to superior wings to heavenly banana pudding will bring you back time and again. Southern Coals started as a home-based catering truck and was so successful that it grew into its current storefront. One customer put the Southern Coals experience this way: “Everything about this place is AH-MAZING. The owners, the people that work there, the food. ... I mean if you go home hungry, it’s definitely your fault!” If you need Southern Coals to come to you, no problem. The restaurant offers full catering service for any size event. The catering menu includes barbecue, chicken, brisket and more. Just call for information. Best of Fayetteville

Best Hamburger 3041 Main St. Hope Mills Rustic Burger Thank you for voting us 2653 Hope Mills Road, Suite 18 910-568-4471 or https://rusticburger.business.site FLraitdianyNNigighhttss 910-835-3118 Although Rustic Burger has only been Upstairs in the Nightclub on the Hope Mills scene for barely a Top 40 & Hip Hop year, it’s made a big impression on local hamburger lovers. Once you arrive at SDaowtnusHrtaidirpsaiHnyothNepiLgouhntges the neatly maintained location on Hope Mills Road, you place your order inside For more information see us on Facebook and, after a brief wait, pick up your food that’s wafting with tantalizing smells at a JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 39 second window. Featured items on owners John and Trista’s menu are 21 different hamburgers made to order using a variety of fresh ingredients. Classic sides like fried pickles, sweet potato fries and mozzarella sticks will stick to your ribs. If hamburgers aren’t your thing, they’ve got other options, including freshly made salads. The goal at Rustic Burger is to provide excellent food and equally good customer service. Come to Rustic Burger for a place where family and friends gather. Best Hot Dog Hot Diggidy Dog 106 Roxie Ave. 910-426-1300 or www.facebook.com/hotdiggidydognc In addition to being a Best of Fayetteville winner, Hot Diggidy Dog has previously been voted as one of the top 20 hot dog restaurants in the state of North Carolina. While hot dogs are the star item on the menu, it certainly doesn’t end there. Other options include award-winning hamburgers, smoked sausage, barbecue, grilled chicken sandwiches, onion rings, cheese fries, chili cheese fries and hand-dipped milkshakes. A recent addition to the menu is the classic fried bologna sandwich. Customer reviews like this one are the norm: “This was our first time to eat there,’’ a local wrote. “I can’t believe what we have missed. Ground beef patted by hand. Homemade chili and slaw. Best ever in Fayetteville. The spectacular juice of the burger makes you realize you can’t put it down until you eat it all. French fries and onion rings, awesome. We will be going back. Loved it. Very clean, upscale restaurant. Owners and staff are also five stars to us. Yummy.” Find out what you’re missing, too, if you haven’t been there yet. Best Fried Chicken KFC 1207 Bragg Blvd. and various locations 910-485-2531 or www.kfc.com Col. Harlan Sanders tried a lot of business ventures in his lifetime. But it wasn’t until he discovered his secret combination of 11 herbs and spices for fried chicken and started selling it at a gas station that he hit a dining home run. The taste of that chicken would continue winning fans for generations to come. The KFC located at 1207 Bragg Blvd. in Fayetteville was the first KFC to be built in North Carolina. The diners in Fayetteville have certainly shown how they feel about KFC, as it has been a repeat winner in Best of Fayetteville competitions over the years. Of course, chicken isn’t the only feature of the KFC chain. Over time, the restaurant has added popular side dishes like macaroni and cheese and mashed potatoes to the mix, perfectly complementing Sanders’ original menu centerpiece. Best of Fayetteville

wine Best Ribs, Best Steaks & dine Texas Roadhouse 4195 Sycamore Dairy Rd. 910-826-1288 or www.texasroadhouse.com Best Pizza (Eat In) Texas Roadhouse opened its first Mellow Mushroom restaurant in 1993. 301 N. McPherson Church Rd. They didn’t want to 910-779-2442 or https://mellowmushroom.com become only a family restaurant or a steak Mellow restaurant. They Mushroom first wanted to become a opened its doors in place where folks of Atlanta, Georgia, all ages could come 45 years ago. and find a great meal, The Fayetteville great fun and great restaurant prices. continues the Mellow Mushroom The people of tradition of being Fayetteville think a funky, art-filled Texas Roadhouse has spot that features achieved that locally craft beer, calzones as the restaurant and creative, has once again won stone-baked pizza. recognition for having both the Best With both eat-in Ribs and Best Steaks or takeout available, you can enjoy your pizza in the unique atmosphere of in Fayetteville. Texas the restaurant or bring it home for a special event with friends and family. Roadhouse provides its patrons with When it comes to beverage options, the restaurant has a long history of custom steaks, made serving quality handcrafted drinks. While they use the freshest ingredients to from a variety of make their fine pizzas, they also have that same quality for what they mix up quality cuts, cooked behind the bar. to order. Satisfied meat-lovers rave If you’d like to take something other than food home with you, Mellow about the dazzling service and the juicy entrees. Mushroom offers an apparel and merchandise collection available for Texas Roadhouse handcrafts nearly everything on its menu. Large portions browsing before or after dining there. And if you’d like to spread the Mellow ensure customer gets more food for the dollar. You’ll also enjoy the fun Mushroom magic among friends and family, gift cards are also available. atmosphere at Texas Roadhouse as the staff is friendly and engaging. Get in on the added fun at Mellow Mushroom by signing up for free pizza, birthday treats, special deals and other fun surprises. Best Pizza (Take Out) Best Wings Pizza Hut 301 Wingz Various locations 407 N Eastern Blvd. 910-867-4295 or www.pizzahut.com 910-677-9464 When it comes to finding There are plenty of wing eateries in this town, but 301 Wingz, owned by a takeout food that’s readily Marshall Brookshire, stands out above them all for both food and service. available as well as popular It’s easy to see why it’s won Best of Fayetteville again this year. Review across a wide spectrum of after review on its Facebook page praises the delicious food and courteous age groups, pizza would service. likely top many lists. In Fayetteville, when it’s One review states, “Awesome place! We go here almost 4 times a week, time to order pizza for an great food, great service! Staff is very friendly, know us by name and our impromptu celebration order by heart!! I totally recommend this restaurant!! Best of all, (you’re) not or treat the family to breaking the bank to eat here!! Very affordable!!” something special in little to no time, Pizza Hut is the The casual atmosphere at this bar and grill will keep you coming back. go-to place. Even though 301 specializes in wings, there’s a great selection of other menu items, too. Gyros, sandwiches, chicken tenders, burgers, salads and so much If you need it for takeout more means something for everyone. or delivery, Pizza Hut comes through with a Best of Fayetteville hot meal that features the best toppings along with a variety of sides to fill out the menu. Takeout, of course, is just part of what Pizza Hut offers. For customers who want to eat in, there’s a buffet available that lets you sample a bevy of different pizza offerings. With locations all over Fayetteville, your pizza wishes are easy to fulfill at any time that’s convenient for you. 40 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019

& SGeorovdicses Best Shopping Complex (Not the mall) Westwood Shopping Center 400 Westwood Shopping Center 910-868-2121 or www.westwoodsc.com Best Veteran-Owned Business When you’ve got a lot of shopping to do, wouldn’t it Chop Shop Tattoos be great to get it all done in 2945 Hope Mills Rd., Suite 108 one spot instead of spending 910-426-4657 or www.chopshoptattoos.com your time driving around town from one store to another? Chop Shop Tattoos has been veteran owned and operated since 2002. This is the There is such a place in third consecutive year it’s won the designa- Fayetteville. Westwood Shop- tion of Best Veteran-Owned Business. ping Center is home to a va- riety of businesses, including The majority of the artists working at Chop clothing stores, a pharmacy, Shop Tattoos are veterans. The business entertainment venues, a num- takes pride in supporting both the active- ber of restaurants, specialty duty and veteran community in Fayetteville shops and service providers. and the surrounding area. Most of our readers already know this, as Westwood has Owner Robert “Chop” Francis is no won this category many times stranger to military service. A former 82nd before. Airborne Division soldier, Francis has been Locally owned and operated, Westwood Shopping Center was built in 1974 by in business almost 20 years. During that the Player family and is an integral part of the 600-acre regional trade center in time, he’s built a reputation both for his Fayetteville, which includes several other shopping centers and brings in more high-quality work and for developing custom artwork. than $200 million to the local economy every year. Looking back over the past 45 In addition to hiring veterans on his staff, Francis is involved in a number of years of development, the Player family takes pride in the fact that the shopping events each year that give back to the local military community. The Chop Shop center has become a place where small-business owners turn their dreams into donates money to such organizations as Fort Bragg’s Fisher House, the USO, reality. 22Kill, and Operation Tattooing Freedom. The Chop Shop has also hosted the Westwood Shopping Center is in the heart of Fayetteville’s bustling restaurant All American Tattoo Convention. and shopping district at the intersection of Morganton and McPherson Church The Chop Shop’s specialty is street-style tattoos, but its artists are also skilled Roads, near the All American Freeway. The area continues to grow and offer new in doing custom designs. Customers can browse the gallery of past work online options for shoppers and local businesses. or visit the shop for advice from the dedicated staff, who are more than happy to take questions. TfohravnoktingYuosu Best Place to Board Pets Best of Fayetteville 2401 Stonegate Rd.•[email protected] 910-484-0300 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 41

& SGeorovdicses Best Health Food Store Best Store For A Unique Gift Apple Crate Naturals 2711 Raeford Rd., Suite 110, or 5430 Camden Rd., Suite 103 White Trash & Colorful Accessories 910-426-7777 or 910-423-8800 or www.applecratenc.com 223 Franklin St. 910-482-0005 or www.facebook.com/shopwhitetrash Apple Crate Natu- rals is your local, Don’t let the name of this independent natural special business give you any in- market. Whether correct ideas about what’s inside you visit the Raeford its walls. Road or Camden Road location, you’ll The contents of White Trash & find a wide selection Colorful Accessories are any- of everything you thing but garbage. The items for need for a happy, sale range from marvelous to un- healthy life. usual to just plain fun. It’s hard to pin down exactly what will Apple Crate Natu- be on display as you browse the rals is always work- selections. Customers can find ing to bring you great organic and non-GMO options, including fresh produce, everything from jewelry to glass- vegan/vegetarian/gluten-free products and bulk foods. At the Raeford Road ware, cards and soaps to frames location, you can even grind your own peanut butter using three kinds of nuts. and candles and pairs of socks Because healthy lives don’t stop at what we eat, Apple Crate is also your store that will make anyone laugh. for natural health and beauty needs. It carries vitamins and supplements to sup- port a wide variety of health concerns as well as CBDs, natural soaps, makeup White Trash is the stop if and skin care products, sunblocks, bug sprays, topical skin treatments, chemical- you’re aiming to find that special free hair dyes, essential oils and more. gift that will make you unfor- Whatever your question or interest in natural products, the store’s knowledge- gettable to the recipient. Whether you’re looking for something collectible able staff is there to help get what you need. Whether it’s guidance on picking the or quirky, there is something inside to fit the budget of even the most frugal right supplement or searching for an unfamiliar item, the team is ready to assist shopper. you personally. Molly and Bruce Arnold, owners of White Trash, take pride in the service their At Apple Crate Naturals, they’re family-owned and community-grown. It just staff provides, and they are more than ready to offer a personal touch with each comes naturally to them, and they wouldn’t have it any other way. purchase, including gift wrapping. Visit the website to find a health calculator, healthy recipes, an ingredients glossary and coupons. 42 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

Thank You Fayetteville For voting us eleven years in a row Best • 2009 Emergencies • Reptiles • Birds • Exotic Animals • 2010 Equine Service • Orthopedics and Specialty Surgeries Moving • 2011 • 2012 • 2013 Company •2014 •2015 •2016 •2017 •2018 •2019 Residential & Commercial Hudson is excited Dr. J.K. Garrett, DVM • Dr. Brian K. Garrett, DVM that Daddy’s Dr. Beth Susen, DVM • Dr. Brittney McLamb, DVM Dr. Bryan Rodgers, DVM • Dr. Amy Nevens, DVM number one again! And Our Pet Friendly Staff 1517 Hope Mills Rd. 910-826-MOVE Second Location Riverside Animal Hospital 910-630-MOVE (6683) 3109 Ft. Bragg Rd. • 910-323-1535 Free Estimates • Reasonable Rates • Fully Insured www.ahofnc.org www.AndyAndersonMoving.com Nights - Weekends - Holidays 910-864-2844 Don’t be just another face in the crowd. We can help your business get noticed! “Cumberland County’s Community Newspaper” JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 43 910.484.6200 Best of Fayetteville

8 years in a row! & SGeorovdicses • Computer Systems Management Best Candy/Sweet Shop • Managed Services • Cloud Computing Rocket Fizz Soda Pop & Candy Shop • Server Migration/Deployment 1916 Skibo Rd. • Telephone System Installation/Repair 910-867-6032 or www.rocketfizzfayetteville.com • Network/Internet/VPN Design • Multi-Site Support The concept of the classic • System Design/Consulting candy store of old hasn’t • Voice/Data Cabling faded into the pages of his- • Virtual Environment Implementation tory. It’s alive and well, and • Converged Network Integration enjoying a renaissance un- • System Maintenance/Repair der the national branding of the Rocket Fizz chain. 951 S McPherson Church Road | Fayetteville, NC Fayetteville’s Rocket Fizz B B is located in the Marketfair TSE OF TES OF Shopping Center, adjacent to Planet Fitness. The local FAYETTEVILLE FAYETTEVILLE franchise is owned by Kyle and Anne Sims and Ineke 910.977.1001 Morris-Verschuur. At their store, you’ll see such enticing items as toys, novel- ties, gags, candies, nostalgic movie posters, vintage rock concert posters and 44 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 more than 400 varieties of soda pop. The soda flavors are as varied as green apple jalapeño, black licorice, s’mores, banana nut, ranch dressing, cucum- ber, Martian poop, and bacon. Not a soda fan? Try eating it via Dr. Pepper cot- ton candy. Or try the Bob Ross Positive Energy Drink for a quick pick-me-up. The focus is simple. Rocket Fizz wants to offer the kind of fun and tasty treats popular in years past, while also mixing in some quirky, modern flare. You can even purchase a gift basket that will include an array of candy, gifts and soda that’s certain to stand out. If your fond memories of things like wax lips, bubble gum cigars, bendable action figures, Sugar Babies and salt water taffy need refreshing, pay a visit to Rocket Fizz. Best Tobacco Shop Anstead’s Tobacco Company 320 N. McPherson Church Rd. 910-864-5705 or www.ansteads.com If the striking red barn that houses Anstead’s Tobacco Company isn’t enough to pique your interest, one step inside the doors will quickly con- vince both the serious and the casual cigar smoker that this is a place worth exploring. The folks at Anstead’s invite the community to come enjoy some of the best premium cigars in the world while relaxing in the luxury smoking lounge. Anstead’s is home to a giant walk-in humidor that covers more than 300 square feet. Filling that exquisite space are over 100 premium brands of cigars, including classic Dominican, Honduran and Nicaraguan cigars. If you’re more into pipes, there is a large selection of excellent briar and meerschaum pipes. To fill them, the customer will find 40 different blends of pipe tobacco, along with a variety of imported pipe brands. Patrons can enjoy smoking in the lounge with friends or explore Anstead’s two-story construction. Paying a visit to the Wine, Whiskey, Craft Beer and Scotch Bar tops off the experience. Anstead’s offers a Pipe Club along with monthly cigar special events. There are also quarterly events introducing new cigars, special offers, promotions and best sellers. Additionally, there are featured visits from various representatives, cigar rollers and other VIPs of the industry. Best of Fayetteville

Best Place To Buy Local Art “Cumberland County’s Community Newspaper” Cape Fear Studios JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 45 148 Maxwell St. 910-433-2986 or www.capefearstudios.com Cape Fear Studios has the distinction of being the only visual arts cooperative in Fayetteville. It’s home to a number of gifted local artists and has been around for 30 years. A nonprofit organiza- tion, Cape Fear Studios puts an emphasis on growing and exploring the arts. It offers op- portunities for the creation of art, the purchasing of art and the viewing of art. The studio’s member artists invest in the organization by paying an annual fee while also volunteering their time to keep the studio in operation. In addition to the fees paid by member artists, Cape Fear Studios relies on various grants and money from donors. The building features huge skylights that let in natural light, and seven stu- dios for artists that are rented by members. There is also a gallery, a retail area and an open area that can be used either for classes or meetings. Works on dis- play at the studio may include pottery, sculpture, photography, painting, glass, wood, jewelry and a variety of other mediums, all of which are unique pieces created by the members. Visitors are welcome to come to the studio and watch the artists at their work. Purchasing the unique, local, handmade art here supports the creative mem- bers of this community. There are also contests and exhibits during the year that showcase local talent and bring national and international artists to the area. Classes for local artists are held through the studio, too. Best Framing Shop Lisa’s Custom Framing 1226 Fort Bragg Rd. 910-484-3585 or www.lisascustomframing.com Lisa’s Custom Fram- ing is a regular on the Best of Fayetteville winner’s list. The tradi- tion started years ago when the business was originally founded by Lisa Lofthouse. Robin Kelly picked it up and carried it on when she took over the operation in 2008. Kelly retained the name but made a few changes to help add her personal touch to the successful brand. There’s no questioning Kelly’s commitment to support the Fayetteville com- munity through displays of the work of local artists in a wide selection of styles. Lisa’s always features a large and interesting selection of original artwork in the front gallery of the business, along with prints of local art. On a quarterly basis, the business hosts An Evening of Art and Wine to showcase the work of a local artist. The thriving business of Lisa’s remains customized picture framing, and it is the focus of both Kelly and her gifted staff. The team uses quality mats and accessories to create frames that highlight all manner of subjects. They are widely known for their creative designs, outstand- ing craftsmanship, superior customer service and competitive prices. The staff is eager and well-equipped to provide top-tier design advice to all of its customers. Each item is mounted in a frame using preservation techniques that assure the item will retain its beauty and be kept safe from the ravages of the environ- ment for years to come. Best of Fayetteville

& SGeorovdicses to painted furniture and a variety of vin- Best Furniture Store – Used tage collectibles. New & Nearly New Thrift Shop The owners of The 810 Bragg Blvd. Pickin’ Coop call 910-485-6837 or www.nearlynewthriftshop.com Fayetteville home and are active supporters of New & Nearly New Thrift other local businesses. Shop proves that the practice For all antiquers look- of being thrifty is both fun and ing for that special smart. Owner Bob Thompson find, take along some friends and spend a leisurely afternoon with a single stop started his business in 1974 to The Pickin’ Coop. with just 3,000 square feet of space and a Volkswagen bus. Best Bookstore – Used Over the ensuing years, he’s expanded to a total of three 2ND & CHARLES buildings and a whopping 1920 Skibo Rd. 15,000 square feet of treasures waiting to be discovered. 910-487-3356 or www.2ndandcharles.com Today’s shop is unique in the world of thrift opportunities. It features an in- credible array of options for purchase, affordable prices and a staff that is friendly 2ND & CHARLES is rapidly becoming a and anxious to help the customer find anything they might need. “We’re always local dynasty in the book world. For a fifth buying and selling products that we know will find a new home,’’ Thompson said. time, the readers of Up & Coming Weekly If you’re looking for a baby shower gift, bar stools for that basement man cave, have rated this Skibo Road business the specialty lamps or a new or used mattress for your guest bedroom, look no fur- place to find the best in used books. ther than New & Nearly New Thrift Shop. The atmosphere at 2ND & CHARLES goes Best Furniture Store – New way beyond just another bookstore. There’s a strong sense of community within its walls. Bullard Furniture All readers, regardless of age, hobby, pas- 4901 Morganton Rd. sion or title, can find a book of interest, and 910-864-5533 or www.bullardfurniture.com maybe a kindred spirit, amongst its shelves. Bullard Furniture is a family owned There are two goals common to most and operated business and has book readers. First is finding a great new been providing the area with name- book. Second is getting it at a competitive brand furniture options since 1957. price. Those are exactly the kinds of finds For more than 60 years, the Bullard available at 2ND & CHARLES. The staff are family and their staff have worked eager to work with customers in the buying, selling and trading of all manner of hard building their reputation of lightly used books — plus some other goodies, too. The inventory, in addition to being fair and trustworthy while fiction and nonfiction hardcovers and paperbacks, includes comic books, CDs, serving Fayetteville, Fort Bragg and vinyl records, video game consoles, electronics, movies and video games. There’s Cumberland County families. also an occasional free book bin. Bullard’s 100,000-square-foot showroom is overflowing with beautiful, well- 2ND & CHARLES customers have been extremely supportive over the years. made pieces and boasts the largest furniture selection in the area. The extensive Fans of the business have come to the store to take part in pop culture events, selection includes name-brand furniture, mattresses and accessories at afford- game nights, cosplay, the gaming arena and activities for children. There is much able prices. more than books here. There’s inspiration and experience. The customer service is beyond reproach; there are no chain store attitudes here, just unparalleled products and attention to detail through every step of the Best Library Branch process. This is what is known as “the Bullard experience.” It’s what makes shop- ping here a pleasure, fuels recommendations and keeps people coming back. Headquarters Library From financing options to guaranteed lowest prices, the staff at Bullard Furni- 300 Maiden Ln. ture is committed to their customers, and that is what makes this Fayetteville’s 910-483-7727 or www.cumberland.lib.nc.us favorite furniture store. After a protracted battle over funding that Best Antique Shop took years to win, this downtown branch had its breakthrough on Sept. 12, 1984. Two years The Pickin’ Coop later, it opened to the public with 135,000 708 Ramsey St. books, 550 magazines and journals, 37 news- 910-484-8400 or www.thepickincoopantiquemall.com papers and a host of audiovisual items. Antiquing can be an exhausting hobby as customers travel from one shop In the years since, the service population to another in search of that special, hard-to-find item. A solution to antiquing of the library has skyrocketed, growing to fatigue is to locate a dealer that offers a wide variety of excellent choices all 332,553. Patron visits more than quadrupled. under one roof. Repeat Best of Fayetteville winner The Pickin’ Coop is just such The collection of print books has almost a business. quadrupled as well, standing at 477,388. The number of computer sessions showed the It may look small on the outside, but The Pickin’ Coop is home to some 30 biggest percentage jump of all, going from vendors, each in their own booth. They offer everything from antiques to gifts 2,119 within the library’s first year of opera- tion to 870,512 in 2014-15. Regularly scheduled special events for the public include Cinema Chats, au- thor visits, NC Works job skills training for veterans, Library Geek Squad Drop-In Labs, book sales and even forums for Congressional District 9 candidates. More information can be found on the library website. The Maiden Lane branch of the Cumberland County Library system is a valu- able and popular resource for the community. 46 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

Best Private School Cumberland Co. & Surrounding Areas 910-486-0334 Village Christian Academy 908 S. McPherson Church Rd. Exceptional 910-483-5500 or www.vcanc.com Customer Service Village Christian Acad- 2520 Gillespie St. Keeping The Carolinas emy was founded 21 years Fayetteville, NC 28304 Flowing For Over 30 Years! ago by former pastor Dr. Bruce Martin as an out- • 24 Hour Service • Water Lines reach ministry of Village • Video Capabilities • Sewer Lines Baptist Church. Since • New Installations • Remodels then, it’s grown into one of Fayetteville’s top faith- Residential • Commercial • Industrial • New Construction based private schools. VCA is a nondenominational [email protected] | www.WadeHardinPlumbinglnc.com Christian school and is fully accredited. The goal of the school is to challenge young men and women with academic rigor in a Christ-centered environment Find the best our and prepare them to lead godly lives with a biblical worldview. In the 2018-19 school year, total enrollment in grades prekindergarten through community has to 12th was 726 students, 235 of those in grades 9-12. Average class size is 17 pupils. The graduation rate is 100%. offer in the Best of Academics are a strong aspect of the Village experience. VCA offers 30 Honors and nine AP courses. Of the 2018 class, 88% had a grade point average Fayetteville edition of of 3.0 or better, with 60% at 4.0 or better. The average SAT score for the class of 2018 was 1119. Following the 2018 graduation, 97% of students attended post- Up & Coming Weekly secondary institutions. There are also plenty of opportunities for extracurricular activities and in- year-round at Call 910-484-6200 today! terscholastic athletics. Counting middle school, junior varsity and varsity, the school fields 34 athletic teams in a variety of sports. Additionally, every year the www.upandcomingweekly.com senior class goes on an international mission trip. JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 47 Best Carpet/Flooring Store Cape Fear Flooring & Restoration 2727 Hope Mills Rd. 910-426-4956 or www.capefearflooring.com Whatever your flooring needs, Cape Fear Flooring & Restoration offers a range of services that can get the job done. In business for 20 years, it handles everything from new construc- tion to remodeling or repairs following a disaster. The hallmark of Cape Fear Flooring is qual- ity service combined with unmatched attention to detail, all without hassle. Owners Thomas Foldesi and Amie Crouter have the biggest show- room around, stocked with the largest selection. They’re also a full-service restoration company that can handle the damage caused by fire, flood- ing and more. Before they take on any job, the folks at Cape Fear Flooring welcome you to contact them for an accurate, in-home estimate of how much the work is going to cost. If you don’t have specific ideas of what kind of look you want, they’re happy to provide suggestions. This veteran-owned business is also no stranger to the community. It con- stantly gives back to food drives, school supply drives and the Salvation Army. Cape Fear Flooring’s website boasts glowing customer reviews. One client whose home flooded praised both the flood mitigation team and the restoration team: “Cape Fear Flooring were incredibly professional. I would recommend this business hands down.” The Best of Fayetteville issue is online all year long! Visit www.upandcomingweekly.com. Best of Fayetteville

& SGeorovdicses lightly used items sold at low prices. The variety of selection is impres- Best Clothing Store – Men, Best Clothing Store – Women sive. Customers can expect to find Belk everything from common house- 200 Cross Creek Mall hold items to furniture, and pieces 910-864-1111 or www.belk.com that range from unique to antique. There are only a handful of North There is a standing 10% military Carolina businesses with the deep discount. Timely Treasures is also roots and longstanding recognition involved in the community through that Belk has established. In fact, Belk donations made to local charities. was founded in North Carolina more Everything for sale in the business than 130 years ago. is purchased locally. The mission at Belk is simple: satisfy the modern Southern lifestyle like no one else, so that customers get the fashion Best Clothing Store (Children) they desire with the value they deserve. No wonder both men and women find themselves returning here to shop again and again. Fleishman’s Tiny Town 3015 Fort Bragg Rd. The store offers designer clothing for men and women that is tailored to work for any outing, be it business, a formal event or a casual gathering with friends. 910-323-1991 or www.visittinytown.com They’ve got everything from laid-back looks to active wear to all types of en- sembles suitable for dress occasions. Serving Fayetteville and the surrounding area for If you’re looking for the latest clothing trends, check out Belk. The staff is cour- almost 70 years, Fleish- teous, professional and eager to help you find exactly what you’re looking for. man’s Tiny Town is North Carolina’s largest children’s Best Thrift Shop specialty department store. Founded by Herbert and Timely Treasures Thrift Store Marilyn Fleishman in 1951, 1003 Honeycutt Rd. Tiny Town has been family 910-491-6187 or www.southerntarheelgir.wixsite.com/timely-treasures owned and operated from its beginning. The attractive Fort Bragg Road store is filled with the best quality brands avail- Timely Treasures, which is both family owned and community oriented, has able for children. It’s a one-of-a-kind shopping experience where you can locate been open for seven years under the leadership of Beverly and Steve Soderholm. the perfect items for the children in your life, ages infant to preteen. The variety of products includes the safest cribs and baby furniture, children’s Visitors will find their store clean and organized and filled with high-quality, bedroom furniture, kids shoes as well as unique toys and gifts. Clothing options range from casual to formal for children of all ages. As its motto states, Tiny Town provides only the best for kids. Stop by to expe- rience the excellent service and quality products firsthand. 48 JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 Best of Fayetteville

Best Consignment Store The sophisticated atmosphere of the showroom is backed with top- High Cotton Consignment notch workmanship, an impressive 2800 Raeford Rd., Suite 4 inventory and unfailing honesty and 910-483-4296 or https://highcottonconsignment.squarespace.com integrity. It’s not easy to stay up-to-date with the Rhudy’s continues to produce out- latest fashion trends while trying to live standing custom jewelry while also within a budget. A business like High Cot- handling repairs on the premises. ton Consignment can help the consumer Thanks to equitable pricing that fits dress to impress while keeping more any budget, along with a focus on detail, honesty and integrity, customers have money in the bank. High Cotton is selec- continued coming back for years. tive when adding stock, working with de- signer clothing, shoes, denim, accessories, Best Sporting Goods Store handbags and more. Academy Sports By doing this, the shop can offer new, 2100 Skibo Rd. top-quality merchandise at competitive prices. This gives buyers access to a line 910-860-5100 or www.academy.com of exclusive merchandise, so they don’t have to worry about encountering some- one wearing the same outfit at a party or other public function. Academy Sports has come a long way from its start more than 80 years High Cotton Consignment is also a big hit with people looking to clean out their ago as a San Antonio, Texas, tire store. closets of those lightly used dressier items and make a little money in the process. From there, it switched to military surplus, then added sports and out- Stop by soon, because with the quality available on High Cotton’s shelves, door equipment. those items won’t be hanging around for long. Academy Sports is a bit of a new- Best Jewelry Store comer to North Carolina, opening its first store in the Tar Heel State in 2012. Rhudy’s Jewelry Showroom The Fayetteville store is one of 250 2410 Murchison Rd. spread across 16 states. 910-488-7571 ext. 100 or www.rhudysjewelry.com Options for customers who visit Academy stores are extensive. You’ll find every- thing from clothing to shoes and boots, outdoor equipment, items for the home Founded by Rhudy Phillips in the 1970s, Rhudy’s Jewelry Showroom has and backyard, and health and fitness equipment. proven to be a consistent choice by the people of Fayetteville when searching for In addition, there’s an extensive fan shop where your in-house sports fanatic quality jewelry at affordable prices. can find items from such sports favorites as the NBA, MLB, NFL, NCAA, NHL and MLS. They’ve even got a section for all your tailgating needs. When the business first opened, access to the showroom was by invitation If you’re looking for anything in the world of sports and outdoors, Academy is only. But that soon changed as word spread around the community about the the place to visit. quality products being offered, along with Rhudy’s excellent business standards and first-class customer service. Best of Fayetteville JULY 31-AUGUST 6, 2019 UCW 49

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