What does cocktail—or any dress code—even mean anymore? Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they decode the ever-evolving attire requirements, from cocktail chic to casual confusion. Rules to Survive in a Modern Society Is Wearing Casual Clothes to Fancy Establishments the Future? Meet Our Sponsors: Village T…

Raleigh often tops the charts as one of the best places to live, but with historic property tax hikes and soaring interest rates, can longtime locals still afford to plant roots? Join Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they explore the reality of Raleigh’s housing market—what’s driving the boom, who’s being priced out, an…

Part of the fun of hanging out with us is getting a firsthand account of all the new places opening in town. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they preview more than a half-dozen new concepts so you can decide which you want to try first. Stella’s New Dive Bar Lagana Burgers Urban Oak: New Tallest Rooftop B…

In honor of Election Day, we’re going to pause from our regularly scheduled podcast to use this time to go vote—and we hope you do the same. Cheers! Meet Our Sponsors: Village Tavern The Montessori School Olde Raleigh Distilleryبقلم Raleigh Magazine

The party of the year is back—and you are not going to want to miss this! Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam chat why you should be hanging out with them on Nov. 16 at The Cocktail Classic. The Cocktail Classic Best Bartender Nominees Vote for Best Bars + Best Bartenders Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Raleigh Distillery …

If you didn’t think Raleigh was a tourism town—think again. Clearly Downtown tourism is having a moment via a bevy of boutique and unique elevated hotels set to unfold some 500+ rooms, plus rooftops and hospitality concepts. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam reveal the handful of concepts and how they will transf…

Perhaps two of the most offensive words? “We’ve met.” Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they dish uncomfortable run-ins—and how to navigate them. Oh, Behave: Modern Etiquette Don’t Ask Someone Their Job Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Raleigh Distillery Campbell Law School Visit Charlottesville Get the issue to you…

Few local announcements have created the fanfare of the Trophy blue building takeover. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they dish the inside scoop on what’s on tap (literally) for Trophy Five Points and what it means for Raleigh’s future. First Look at Trophy Five Points Tucker Street Diner Coming to Smoky…

What if you could change our city with just $10—or even 5? Now you can. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam tell you how—and why it matters. Give Raleigh: Donate $10 to Change Our City Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Raleigh Distillery Campbell Law School Visit Charlottesville Get the issue to your door! Subscribe Now…

Hot take: If you don’t want kids in restaurants you should just stay home? The old debate is new again as a controversial emerging cast of restaurants institute no kids policies. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they chat the great debate. Death of the Dress Code? Do You Know How to Behave? Are You Offende…

If you’ve lived in Raleigh for more than 10 years you remember life before mixed use—meaning you remember when every apartment or office building didn’t have retail or restaurants on the first floor. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam chat changing the way we live, work and play in Raleigh. Chamber Session: Gina S…

’Tis the season—and, to get you in the spirit (literally), hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they reveal RM’s 2024 class of Best Bartender nominees so you can belly up to their bars in front of voting for some, ahem, research to cast your ballot in the other big election this year. For extra credit—and the …

We announce new concepts coming to Raleigh on the daily—and it can be a lot to keep up with. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they chat a slew of hot spots now open, plus a few more bowing this month. Village District Postino Wine Cafe First Look Hop Shots Putt Putt Now Open Vic’s Now Open in Bloc[83] Meet…

It’s that time of year again! Raleigh Magazine reveals its 2024 class of Best Restaurants—including Restaurant of the Year and Best New Restaurant. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam dish hot takes on some of this year’s winners—and where to book your next reservation for every occasion and no occasion at all. Ral…

Like a virtual corn maze, navigating Raleigh’s ever-growing DTR parking lots and apps can be overwhelming—but how did we get here? And how do we navigate it? Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Assistant Editor Heidi Reid take a deep dive into why parking feels more stressful today than a year ago—and dish some useful few tips and hacks to boot.…

Gel pedicures look great—until your nails start peeling off. And power-washing? It’s satisfying until you’re feeling the burn—literally. This episode is packed with news-you-can-use, straight from the trenches of real-life mishaps. We always share the stories behind the stories, and trust us: Today’s tales are some of the wildest yet. Join Publishe…

The future of Downtown is at stake—and Red Hat Amphitheater sits at the center of it all. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Assistant Editor Heidi Reid get down to brass tacks on how the potential demolition of Red Hat could devastate Downtown Raleigh. The Impacts of Red Hat Amphitheater Leaving Downtown Raleigh Revive & Thrive: What’s Happeni…

Top Chef finalist and local Savannah Miller goes on the record with Raleigh Mag. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam and get to know Savannah as they chat about the season, what’s next for the celeb chef, the local dining scene and more. Top Chef Hot Takes From Two Local Final Fivers Q&A With Top Chef’s Savannah…

“Where did you stay?” is easily the most frequent question we query or answer upon travel. And where you stay is personal. It’s the thing that can make or break a trip (beyond a bad Boeing or other flight faux pas). Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam chat all things travel—from hotels worth building a trip around …

Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens as she chats with two prolific Raleigh restaurateurs Anthony Rapillo and Chopped champ Katsuji Tanabe about their just-opened restaurant, new speakeasy and scoop on upcoming Bobby Flay TV competition Bobby’s Triple Threat. Sir Walter Speakeasy Being Restored by Two Local Entrepreneurs Anthony Rapillo Opens Flou…

Locals are ready for something to do—and Raleigh came to play. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they reveal a half-dozen new recreational destinations serving up adult—and fam-friendly—playgrounds with everything from pickleball to Putt-Putt, plus food, drinks, patios and more. New Recreation Concepts Comi…

Buckle up as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam explore the multifaceted world of car culture that's revving up in Raleigh. From car clubs and niche groups to car sharing and emerging vehicle trends, take a pit stop with RM for the inside scoop. Plus, learn what your motor match says about you. How Raleigh Rolls Meet Our Spo…

Everyone is talking about the businesses “ditching” DTR—but rest assured, it doesn’t mean what you might think. ...Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam get down to brass tacks on what’s really going on Downtown. What’s Happening With Downtown Raleigh Revive & Thrive DTR Events Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Raleigh Distill…

If you build it, they will come. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Creative Director Liz Reed Comella give an inside look at Raleigh Magazine’s inspired new Downtown office—and how it serves as a dynamic space that people want to work in, and where we can engage with you—our readers, listeners and followers. Raleigh Magazine Office Refresh Doe…

Raleigh is a brunch town—there’s no doubt about it. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam reveal RM’s best brunches, in partnership with Got to Be NC—plus intel on best bloodies, weekday breakfasts, biscuits, mimosas and more. Raleigh Magazine’s Best Brunches 2024 Raleigh Magazine’s Best Restaurants Got to Be NC Meet…

There’s no question Raleigh is rising in the ranks as a destination—from its cultivated culinary scene to its ever-heightened appeal as a metropolitan hot spot for activities and accommodations. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam reveal how one very hip local hotel launched us into a new league—and era. Raleigh’s …

Hot take: There is no better way to kill a conversation from the jump than by asking someone what they do for a living. So, when did it become a nonstarter—or worse… downright intrusive and rude? Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they chat the great convo debate. Do You Know How to Behave? Are You Offended …

Hot take: You miss a reservation because you’re sick and get slammed with a $200 fee. Fair or highway robbery? Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam chat the debate currently taking over the internet—plus the unspoken rules of restaurant reservation etiquette. Code of Conduct: The Restaurant Reservations Debate Do Yo…

“I feel like sometimes the whole world just needs a massage” … Hear what America’s (smiley) Sweetheart—and Raleigh Mag’s May cover star—DJ Burns Jr. has to say about his newfound fame, hot takes on Keatts 👀, the roughest game of his career, his plans for the NBA Draft Combine and much more as he sits down with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-…

People love a new restaurant or bar—and maybe none more than ones they’ve been anticipating for so long. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they give you a taste of four long-awaited spots that just splashed on the scene. La Terrazza: First Look + Taste Brodeto Sneak Peek Ponysaurus Open at Raleigh Iron Work…

It’s one thing to be the best. It’s another to stay the best. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they chat how we expand on the big ideas that made us the dynamic hub we are—and the big ideas our city’s biggest thinkers and residents say will propel us as a destination and help us maintain our footing as the…

Let’s face it—a star was born on the road to Phoenix: DJ Burns! Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they chat about America’s Sweetheart, the run that ignited Raleigh—and Melissa’s behind-the-scenes exclusive with the basketball star. Got Milk? DJ Burns Does DJ’s Moo-ving Release Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Ralei…

There's no new episode dropping today, but fear not! If you missed last week's hilarious chat with David Koechner, now's the perfect time to catch up. Dive into the fun and introspective conversation with the man behind Todd Packer from The Office here. Raleigh Mag Chats With David Koechner Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Raleigh Distillery Village Distric…

Get to know the guy behind Todd Packer. The Office and Office Talk collide as Publisher Gina Stephens sits down with funnyman David Koechner for a fun and introspective chat in front of his highly anticipated comedic run in Raleigh at Goodnights. Raleigh Mag Chats With David Koechner Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Raleigh Distillery Village District…

Few things evoke the moniker “big city” more than dining high in the sky among the city’s tallest towers. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam chat one of the most highly anticipated restaurants in Raleigh’s history, set to debut this month atop The Dillon. La Terrazza Takes Raleigh’s Foodie Scene Next Level What It…

Turns out, in the case of Smoky Hollow, perception is not reality. On the heels of the New Anthem closing announcement and rumors swirling about The Crunkleton, the gossip mill was working double time around the districtwide development. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam set the record straight on the half-dozen-…

Is this the spark that will reignite Fayetteville Street? Settle in with Publisher Gina Stephens and Associate Editor Lauren Kruchten as they talk about NC’s Main Street—from brand-new Birdie’s Barroom & Kitchen to Foundation feting 15 years. Birdie’s Bowing on Fayetteville Street Taking Back Main Street Meet Our Sponsors: Olde Raleigh Distillery V…

Do you know how to behave? Are you sure? How we get along is a hot topic these days—from what we wear to dinners and events to how we socialize, parent, date, work, text and more. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they wax on all things modern-day etiquette. Oh, Behave—“Rules” We Must Abide by to Avoid Chao…

Raleigh continually ranks as one of the best places to live, with people moving here in droves on the daily. But with historic property tax hikes and decades-high interest rates, can the people who call Raleigh home still afford to buy in? Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam dive into real Raleigh living. Real Rale…

Fayetteville Street is the face of our Downtown, city and state. In the last few years, the once-vibrant bustling corridor has lost its luster. In response, Downtown Raleigh Alliance released a plan to bring vibrancy back to our city’s “Main Street.” Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam dissect the plan to breathe n…

Where you live can have a big impact on your love life. That fact—along with Tinder hitting a benchmark 10th birthday—got us talking about how single life—and relationships—has evolved. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam chat all-things relationships—from app life and meeting in real life to relationship success a…

Following a sobering January, the dry movement continues to take off in Raleigh. After researching and reporting on the trend locally, Associate Editor Lauren Kruchten decided to explore the spirit-free concept firsthand by completing Dry January. Tune in as her and Publisher Gina Stephens chat about her experience and how the sober movement is tak…

After a restaurant added a surcharge for “bad parenting” and our ensuing now-viral reader rant claiming all unruly behavior in bars or restaurants should be fined, we asked our followers about their own biggest pet peeves when it comes to dining out & drinking to insightful—and hilarious—effect. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chie…

West Morgan Street is having a moment. All kinds of buzzy concepts are breathing new life into a quarter-mile bend in the road, including the announcement of Trophy Brewing’s new trio taking shape in those three old houses. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam scoop on how the street is shaking up to be a full-on de…

Answering the burning question of where to grab a drink for the mood of the moment is our annual Best Bars across a range of categories. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they reveal your 2023 class of Best Bars, from OG heavyweights to newcomers shaking up the scene—plus your newly crowned Bartender of the…

Ever wonder where all the bars are? If you fancy a drink outside of Downtown—and not at a restaurant or a dual concept—the options are almost nil. Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they rant the revelation—plus why and what it will take to get one—and exclusive scoop on a new drinking destination dropping i…

MLB in Raleigh? Why not. Over five years after MLB announced its plans for expansion, Raleigh is on the forefront of convos around who’s getting a team. Publisher Gina Stephens and Associate Editor Lauren Kruchten chat the literal inside baseball on how likely it is for the City of Oaks to land a team and what the pros/cons are. Raleigh May Actuall…

We first broke the news that the Canes (read: Gale Force Sports & Entertainment) bought Backyard Bistro back in October. As other major news outlets finally reported this “news” last week, well, quite frankly, they got it wrong. Tune in as Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam scoop the latest on what’s really going on with the…

Raleigh has no shortage of “secret happy places.” Hang out with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they spotlight where Raleighites go in town to thrive, reset or just chill. This episode originally aired in November 2022.بقلم Raleigh Magazine

Who doesn’t love a good roast—or reflection? Sometimes the only way forward is to look back. And what better time than the end of the year? Grab a laugh with Publisher Gina Stephens and Editor-in-Chief Melissa Howsam as they reflect on the best—and worst—podcast episodes and moments of 2023. Best Restaurants 2023 Reveal Fayetteville Street: The Nex…