Every so often, a new spot opens that makes you feel as though you’ve traveled far beyond the few miles it took to get there. My husband and I felt exactly that when we stopped by Good Fortune Bar before a show at Cat’s Cradle in mid-May. Its moon gate entrance instantly transported us away from the humidity and predictability of a Monday evening. The space felt cinematic – moody, intimate and deliberate. Jason glanced around and remarked that we could just as easily have been in New York or Los Angeles rather than on West Franklin Street.
That sense of escape isn’t accidental. The owners drew inspiration from a beloved Los Angeles watering hole that closed years ago, and they infused that spirit throughout the experience. I ordered the Moonlight Martini, a bright, floral combination of vodka, St-Germain and lychee. My husband chose the Four Sisters, which blends oolong-infused rum and five-spice falernum into a tropical beverage with just enough spice to keep things interesting.
The tantalizing concoctions caught my attention, but it was the atmosphere that stuck with me. There’s something liberating about blending into a crowd, striking up an unexpected conversation with a stranger or simply sitting and sipping your drink quietly while the evening unfolds around you. It’s the kind of energy I often associate with larger cities. Yet here I was on a Monday night, soaking it in right here in Chapel Hill.
We clearly aren’t the only ones intrigued; a reel from our visit surpassed 25,000 views within its first 48 hours, sparking conversations across social media and confirming what we suspected: People couldn’t wait to see this place for themselves.
One exciting opening, however, tells only part of the story. We are fortunate to live in an area overflowing with standout restaurants, shops, businesses, bars and gathering places that bring character and distinction to our community. That’s why we turn to you, our readers, each year to help identify the local favorites that deserve recognition.
In this issue, you’ll find the results of our 15th annual readers’ favorites poll. Thousands of votes determined this year’s winners, from the best place to enjoy a cocktail or dine outdoors to favorite takeout spots, gift stores, late-night eats, shopping destinations and much more.
Turn to page 31 to meet this year’s honorees and discover a few new additions to your own must-visit list. Whether you’re revisiting a longtime favorite or venturing somewhere new, I hope these pages inspire you to continue exploring and supporting the people and places that make our corner of the world such a vibrant place to call home. – Jessica Stringer, editor
THE 15TH ANNUAL BEST OF ISSUE
31 26 Best Bars & Restaurants
These reader-voted favorites – from longtime institutions to impressive newcomers – represent some of the very best of our dining scene
46 A Toast to the Town
Orange County Social Club celebrates 25 years of creative community, proving that great bars are built on the people who gather there
52 Milestone Moments
Local businesses reflect on their roots and hard-earned successes as they mark major anniversaries
64 No Fear
Dr. Arash Khani found his calling in dentistry after immigrating from Iran to North Carolina, overcoming extraordinary obstacles to bring comfort and compassion to patients
72 Feeling Good
Clients share how beloved health and wellness businesses help them thrive
82 Fun & Games
Kids review a few of our readers’ favorite summer camps
84 Picture This
A first look at this season’s can’t miss gallery exhibits
88 Best of Chapel Hill 2026 Award Winners
112 No Place Like Home
Habitat for Humanity of Orange County receives Chapel Hill Magazine’s fourth annual Social Impact Award
FEATURE
116 Creature Comforts
Pet-friendly places across Orange County
ONLY IN ORANGE
Community & culture, from Chapel Hill to Hillsborough
10 Here & Now
Events you won’t want to miss
14 Get Out of Town
Top Triangle events this season
16 The Write Stuff
New books by local authors
16 Hear It Here
Recent releases from area musicians
17 Carolina on Our Mind
Happenings at UNC
18 Talk of the Town
Community perspectives from Elizabeth Overcash, director of Orange County Animal Services
18 You Said It
What are you up to this summer?
20 Local Lens
A scene that captures the spirit of our towns
22 Glow Getters
Spotlighting neighbors who shine bright
26 Let’s Dish
at One40 Social
28 News Bites
Updates on our local food scene
LOCAL LIFE
Color, character & connections in Orange County
122 Moments That Made Us
A look back at the people, places and events that shaped Chapel Hill
124 The More, the Merrier
Thoughtful design, practical features and inviting gathering spaces shape this family-focused custom home
SCENE AROUND TOWN
Snapshots of local events
134 Women of Achievement Celebration
136 Carrboro Earth Day
137 Rise Summit for Women
138 Table’s Spring Fundraiser
138 Uncorked & Unapologetic
140 PlayMakers 50th Anniversary Ball
