As we turn the page on another year, it’s time to reflect on the content that shaped our conversations and captivated our readers. Sparking joy, inspiration, and engagement, these are the conversations of our Wake County community. We invite you to revisit the highlights of what resonated most with you — and delve deeper to discover what made these stories so unforgettable!
#1 Restaurant Profile: Brodeto Feels Like Floating in the Adriatic on a Weeknight
Chef Scott Crawford does it again with a restaurant that celebrates Adriatic cuisine with a seafood-rich menu inspired by his family travels. Featuring dishes like brodeto and peka served in a modern, airy space, Brodeto evokes a sense of buoyancy and vacation-like enjoyment.
Brodeto was voted the 2025 Readers’ Choice Award winner for Best New Restaurant
#2 Spring Break Day Trips
Day trips from Raleigh to unique destinations like Sylvan Heights Bird Park, Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park, Saxapahaw General Store, and Bennett Place are all offered as distinct experiences — from wildlife encounters to local culture and history — that are found within driving distance of home.
#3 Irregardless Celebrates 50 Years
To mark its big milestone, the Raleigh landmark restaurant hosted a series of throwback dinners featuring reimagined classic dishes from the past, starting with a three-course prix-fixe menu of 1970s favorites, while owner Lee Robinson reflects on the restaurant’s evolution and community support over the years.
“I haven’t been back to Irregardless in a while, but this post makes me want to return real soon.” — Virginia
#4 Roadtrip to Raleigh
On a mild February evening, fans from 47 states and six countries gathered at Lincoln Theatre for the 10th anniversary of American Aquarium’s Roadtrip to Raleigh music festival, which celebrates the band’s grassroots approach to music with throwback country tunes and tailgating festivities.
“So stoked to see my photos gracing the cover of this issue! Thank you, @wakelivingmagazine!” — @joey_wharton
#5 Paws on the Go
The Pup Park Shuttle in Raleigh offers a unique dog transportation service that picks up pups from their homes for an hours-long adventure to multiple parks and allows them to socialize, explore, and enjoy mental stimulation (and a lot of love) while their owners manage their busy schedules.
“Sooo proud of Pup Park Shuttle!! Providing such a wonderful experience. Congratulations, we love you.” — @sheronnealiya
A Personal Pick: Indelible Ink
Robert Meyers, owner of Apocalypse Girl Tattoo in Cary, believes that every tattoo tells a personal story and reflects the deep emotional connection between artist and client. Jonathan Fredin’s photo essay from inside the studio encapsulates the iconic closing line from the TV series Naked City that Meyers references to describe his craft: “There are 8 million stories in the naked city. This has been one of them.”
