Spend a Day Strolling Downtown Carrboro’s Underrated Local Favorites
A Closer Look at Carrboro
One of this former mill town’s biggest draws is its walkability. Carrboro offers its visitors a lively mix of arts, outdoor adventures, independent shopping and a bustling dining scene, with plenty of regular and annual events like a Saturday morning farmers market and its signature fall music festival.
Photography by John Michael Simpson
Napoli Pizzeria & Gelateria
Grab a barstool – and an Aperol Spritz – at Napoli Pizzeria & Gelateria for a front-row seat to the wood-fired pizza oven. Order whatever catches your eye, whether that’s the fior di latte and sweet soppressata salami pie or one with Calabria peppers and Spanish chorizo. The menu rounds out with meatballs, house-made ricotta and salads you’ll actually want to eat – and don’t forget the dark chocolate gelato.
Dingo Dog Brewing Company
Bring your pup to Dingo Dog Brewing Company, where sours and ciders from blackberry to cranberry-pomegranate and pear-apple top the menu. Fun beers like the “Kitty Kitty Bang Bang” light lager and “Puppers” pilsner complete the taps. Go ahead and grab that second pint – the brewery regularly donates to North Carolina animal nonprofits.
Sofia’s Boutique
Sofia’s Boutique is the perfect go-to when your closet needs a boost. Find chic shoes, jewelry and accessories, plus clothing from brands like IslaPayal, Charlie B and Joseph Ribkoff. While you’re there, browse gifts like candles, mugs, cozy blankets and so much more.
Tandem
Kick off dinner at Tandem with a Boxcarr Handmade Cheese board. The Carr Mill Mall eatery, run by Emma Dunbar, has been a local favorite for a decade. Try entrees like Japanese eggplant with Kyoto miso sauce or 72-hour Angus beef short ribs accompanied by a smoked potato puree. After dinner, linger over a glass of wine and dessert, such as mascarpone cheesecake or chocolate pudding cake.
Fifth Season Gardening
Fifth Season Gardening has helped locals discover their green thumbs for 26 years. Whether you need a wind chime, bird feeder or a new tool for digging or weeding, you’ll find it in this organic garden shop. Forget something? Not to worry – there’s also a location in Raleigh!
The Drakeford Library Complex
Spend an afternoon at The Drakeford Library Complex, a modern hub for culture and community. The Orange County Southern Branch Library offers plenty of reading material, plus creative meetups like the Carolina Cozy Journaling Club. The complex also includes a multipurpose space and a teen center managed by the Town of Carrboro, so check the calendar for events.
Breakaway Carrboro
Snag a seat on the Breakaway Carrboro patio for breakfast, lunch or dinner made with fresh, local ingredients. Don’t skip the coffee – the cafe is known for its robust program, including fan favorites like the iced lavender espresso tonic.
Making fun weekend plans? Follow us on Instagram for a front row seat to restaurant news, grand openings and seasonal celebrations!
