Things to Do in Cary (2025)

Master baker Lionel Vatinet’s French bakery anchors Cary’s food scene with artisan loaves and seasonal café plates. Recognized by the James Beard Foundation and praised by Southern Living and The News & Observer.

Downtown Cary’s lauded brewery pours sours, IPAs, and barrel‑aged releases, plus hosts block parties and live music at Eastside. Celebrated by local critics and tourism outlets for community programming.

Zach and Amber Faulisi’s wood‑fired pies combine locally milled and Italian flours. Frequently cited by Eater Carolinas and Visit Raleigh for thin, blistered crusts and seasonal toppings.

A polished neighborhood cocktail bar that regularly wins Cary Magazine’s Best Cocktails. Classic builds, inventive house drinks, and a TV‑free room that encourages conversation.

A woman‑owned sparkling wine bar inside a historic house, spotlighted by The News & Observer and Axios for its inclusive vibe, living‑wage model, and globe‑spanning bubbles and mocktails.

From the team behind SideBar, this “bohemian bistro” draws Raleigh Magazine praise for chef‑driven plates and a lively bar program; a Cary Magazine date‑night favorite.

Family‑run since 2006, Bosphorus brings soulful Turkish cooking—pide, kebabs, mezze—to Cary. Endorsed by Southern Living and covered by WRAL for community work with the Turkish diaspora.

An independent brewery known for British‑style cask ales and community events; noted by Southern Living and regional calendars for runs, music, and cultural nights.

A nonprofit café employing adults with disabilities, honored by Cary Magazine readers. Expect solid espresso, local art, and frequent inclusive community events.

A family‑run scoop shop with national accolades from USA Today readers and the North American Ice Cream Association. Known for creative flavors like baklava and ube.

One of the world’s few Forbes Five‑Star restaurants, Herons showcases seasonal tasting menus inspired by local art and its culinary farm; a longtime News & Observer darling.

A locally owned nursery and community hub since the 1990s, repeatedly named Best Garden Center by Cary Magazine. Workshops, bee programs, and a genuine slice of Cary life.