On the Rolling Brunch train
Hi {{ first name | Raleigh Lover}}!
We spent the weekend in Pinehurst and, in true North Carolina fashion, found ourselves constantly running late to our next itinerary stop—because the people are just that friendly. Every conversation turned into a deeper connection, a chance to learn more about the region and discover incredible local businesses worth celebrating.
One highlight was visiting BHAWK Distillery, started by veteran husband-and-wife team Brad and Jessica Halling. BHAWK—short for Brad Halling American Whiskey Ko.—was born out of Brad’s remarkable story of survival in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, later memorialized in the movie Black Hawk Down. His vision is rooted in gratitude, honoring the giants he served alongside and all who serve our nation and communities. In just 12 months, their success has been phenomenal, and their bourbons (plus the standout pistachio bourbon cream) blew us away.
Our Pinehurst itinerary also included a whimsical rolling brunch train experience and a round of golf at Thistle Dhu, said to be the country’s first mini-golf course. I’m not usually a golf lover, but I’ll admit, this one won me over. Maybe the Pinehurst greens really are my thing!
We also dined well, but the star meal was at 1895 Grille inside the historic Holly Inn, where we stayed. The food, the atmosphere, and the history made it unforgettable.
We’ll be sharing more Pinehurst content soon, but for now, just know how lucky we are to have such a special destination only an hour from Raleigh. Perfect for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or—like in our case—an extra special birthday celebration for Craig.
Caroline
💖 FAVORITE FINDS
Autumn Harvest Bowl from Sweetgreens in North Hills has all the dreamy fall flavors.
The sales associates at Johnnie O’s in North Hills yesterday were excellent. We chatted with them for a long time - and you can get espresso (really good) or beer while you shop! And we learned their headquarters are now in Raleigh, and that Raleigh has a huge textile industry!
As always, the latte and coffee cake at Jubala was exceptional. Craig’s happy birthday cake! (Their pumpkin spice latter is also waiting for you!)
Jubala
Jonnie O’s
Autumn Harvest Bowl
1895 Grille
⭐DID YOU HEAR?
RDU has announced starting April next year will be direct flights to Dublin on Aer Lingus!! Yay we are excited about this one! I lived in Dublin one summer with my best friend, and then Craig and I lived there together for a year. We loved it so much. Here is all our content on Dublin and Ireland on our travel blog to help you plan!
Apparently today is 919 Day! (9/19) So place a little extra love and gratitude in your heart for the lifestyle we get to enjoy here in Raleigh.
North Hills Midtown Commons now has a three-hour free parking limit. Register your car as soon as you park via a QR code. We could not figure out how to sign off however, so we just drove away, trusting it would all work itself out.
The Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts with the 2025 Venue Excellence Award from The International Association of Venue Managers.
Atlanta-based Intown Golf Club will open a new social club for golfers next year in the North Hills Innovation District.
🖋 ON THE BLOG
What Raleigh content would you like us to share more of?
📆THIS WEEKEND
You may like…
Sat The free BugFest at North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences with more than 100 exhibits, games and activities and chat with entomologists and scientists. 10am - 7pm
Sat: The free International Festival 2025 at Jim Graham Building State Fairgrounds with performances, games, vendors and of course, delicious global cuisine! 10am - 7pm
Sat Festa Italiana in Downtown Apex. Celebrate Italian culture with music, food, wine, cooking demonstrations, cannoli eating contests, and more. 11am - 7pm
Sat: Celebrate Asian culture, diversity, and history with dragon boat races on Symphony Lake Koka Booth at the 7th Annual Asia Fest. There’ll also be games, stage performances and street food.
Sun: La Fiesta del Pueblo at Fayetteville St. It honors Latin American culture with live music and dance performances, exhibits, educational booths, and activities for the whole family
More ideas including Oktoberfest and Pumpkin Patches👇
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