"The Canes' Quest for the Cup, Botiwalla's Arrival, and Tift Merritt's Homecoming

"The Canes' Quest for the Cup, Botiwalla's Arrival, and Tift Merritt's Homecoming - Raleigh's Unforgettable Week!"

Trivia Question❓

Raleigh is known for its incredible parks, but do you know which Raleigh park is one of the oldest operating amusement parks in the United States, and the very first public park in North Carolina?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

🌪️ Stanley Cup Fever Takes Over Raleigh!

The Carolina Hurricanes are back in the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in 20 years, and the energy in Raleigh is absolutely electric! After cruising through the first three rounds with an incredible 12-1 record, our Canes are facing off against the Vegas Golden Knights for the ultimate prize in hockey. The series is currently tied 1-1 after a thrilling overtime win, and the excitement is only building as the series heads out west before returning home.

For those of us looking to soak in the atmosphere, there are plenty of ways to join the "Caniacs" in cheering on the team. The Lenovo Center is hosting massive outdoor watch parties for the home games, complete with food trucks and giant screens. If you want to watch the away games, the arena is opening its doors for just $10 a person to watch the action on the massive video board inside.

Downtown Raleigh is also getting in on the action! The city is throwing free watch parties in Moore Square with food trucks, while popular spots like The Avenue and Smoky Hollow in Glenwood South have set up huge outdoor screens. Whether you're a die-hard fan who knows every word to the "Cheaters Never Win" chant, or a newcomer just learning about the "Storm Surge," there is no wrong way to celebrate this incredible run

Let's paint the town red, Raleigh! Grab your gear, practice your best Ric Flair "Wooo!", and get ready for what promises to be an unforgettable summer of hockey.

🌮 Botiwalla Brings Acclaimed Indian Street Food to

Iron Works

Get your tastebuds ready, Raleigh! Botiwalla, the highly anticipated Indian street food restaurant from the acclaimed chef behind Asheville's Chai Pani, is officially opening its doors at Raleigh Iron Works on June 2nd. This is a massive win for our local culinary scene, bringing award-winning flavors right to our backyard.

Chef Meherwan Irani, whose Chai Pani won the James Beard Foundation's "Most Outstanding Restaurant" award in 2022, is expanding his footprint with this fifth Botiwalla location. The concept is a loving homage to the Irani Cafes of India, famous for their late-night bites, vibrant atmosphere, and incredible tea. It's the perfect fit for the growing, dynamic energy of the Iron Works district.

Diners can look forward to a mouthwatering menu featuring dishes like signature okra fries, spiced lamb burgers, flavorful kebab rolls, and hearty salad and rice bowls. To wash it all down, Botiwalla will serve up a fun collection of fizzy drinks, slushies, hot chai, and refreshing yogurt-based lassis. The 4,000-square-foot space includes plenty of indoor seating and a fantastic patio for enjoying those warm summer evenings.

Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for a flavorful dinner with friends, Botiwalla is sure to become a fast favorite. We can't wait to welcome them to the neighborhood!

🎸 Tift Merritt's Raleigh Renaissance at The Gables

Hometown hero and Grammy-nominated musician Tift Merritt is back in Raleigh, and she's bringing a wave of creative energy with her! After a decade in New York City, Merritt returned to her roots to raise her daughter and unexpectedly found herself embarking on an incredible new project: restoring the historic Gables Motor Lodge on Old Wake Forest Road.

Partnering with local hotelier Daniel Robinson, Merritt is transforming the once-vacant property into an 18-room "travelers retreat" set to open this July. They envision The Gables not just as a place to sleep, but as a bohemian enclave and gathering space for artists, musicians, and locals alike. With a coffee shop open all day and spaces designed for creative collaboration, it promises to be a unique addition to Raleigh's cultural landscape.

The opening of The Gables coincides beautifully with the release of Merritt's first new album since 2017, titled Sugar. Described as her most overtly personal and vulnerable record yet, the album reflects her journey through life's messy, open, and human moments. It even features songs inspired by her work on a symphonic song cycle about the history of Dorothea Dix Park.

It's a beautiful full-circle moment for Merritt, blending her passion for music, history, and community right here in the City of Oaks. We're thrilled to have her back and can't wait to see the magic she brings to The Gables!