Local News

New to the Neighborhood: January 2026

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Wednesday, 28 January 2026

Written by Staff Report

Want a new place to check out in town? Here is a roundup of some of the new restaurants, coffee spots, and food trucks that have recently opened in the area, along with a few familiar favorites reopening or expanding under new ownership.

MAI’S THAI EXPRESS
2368 Lillington Hwy., Spring Lake
910-745-8002
https://www.maisthaiexpress.com/
Owners of Mai’s Kitchen Thai Cuisine have expanded their offerings with the opening of Mai’s Thai Express in Spring Lake. The new concept focuses on quick, convenient service while still delivering the bold Thai flavors customers know from the original restaurant. Diners can expect popular Thai staples prepared for those on the go.

CARIBOU COFFEE
4808 Ramsey St., Suite 103
910-339-0326
A new Caribou Coffee location has officially opened on Ramsey Street, marked by a recent ribbon-cutting celebration. The popular coffee chain brings its signature beverages, cozy café vibe, and convenient drive-thru options to the neighborhood, giving residents another go-to spot for coffee and light bites.

ROOSTER’S DINER
3291 Cumberland Rd.
910-263-8028
Rooster’s Diner in Fayetteville has reopened under new ownership. While maintaining the classic diner feel that longtime patrons remember, the refreshed operation aims to reestablish the restaurant as a reliable stop for comfort food favorites and casual dining.

THE HABIT BURGER GRILL
2818 Town Center Dr.
910-207-5456
https://tinyurl.com/mrxe9f44
The Habit Burger Grill celebrated the opening of its second location. Known for chargrilled burgers, sandwiches, and shakes, the fast-casual chain adds another national dining option to the growing Hope Mills food scene.

PAZZO’S ITALIAN CUISINE FOOD TRUCK
774-722-5224
https://tinyurl.com/yw4zw3c5
Pazzo’s Italian Cuisine is now operating as a food truck throughout the Fayetteville area. The mobile kitchen serves Italian-inspired dishes, bringing classic flavors to different neighborhoods and events with a rotating schedule.

BARBARA ANN’S SOUTHERN FRIED CHICKEN
2800 Gillespie St. #134
https://barbaraanns.us/
Barbara Ann’s Southern Fried Chicken has opened a second location, expanding its reach in the community. The restaurant is renowned for its Southern comfort food menu, featuring fried chicken as its centerpiece, accompanied by traditional sides.

CUPBOP – KOREAN BBQ IN A BOWL
1017 Hefner Dr.
910-372-6175
https://www.cupbop.com/
Cupbop has opened a new location on Fort Bragg, offering Korean BBQ-inspired bowls. The fast-casual concept allows customers to customize their meals with rice, noodles, proteins, and sauces, blending bold flavors with quick service.

DUTCH BROS COFFEE
4808 Ramsey St., Suite 103
910-339-0326
Dutch Bros is set to take over the former Clutch Coffee location on Ramsey Street. The drive-thru-focused coffee chain is known for its extensive drink menu and energetic service style, adding another major coffee brand to the area.

NC FOOD COMMISSARY
813 Griffin St.
910-807-7850
https://www.ncfoodcommissary.com/
The NC Food Commissary has recently opened in Fayetteville, offering a shared commercial kitchen space designed to support local food entrepreneurs.
The facility provides 24/7 access to licensed kitchen areas for food trucks, caterers, bakers, and small food businesses, creating new opportunities for culinary startups and expanding concepts within the community.

Keep an eye out for…

BLAZIN HALAL FOOD
697 Country Club Dr.
A new Blazin Halal Food establishment is set to open in the previous Carter Bank and Trust location in Fayetteville.
The restaurant specializes in halal street food inspired by New York cuisine, featuring dishes like chopped cheese, rice topped with chicken, and rice with lamb. The anticipated launch date is June 2026.

RAISING CANE'S CHICKEN
1812 Skibo Rd.
The upcoming eatery will occupy the space previously occupied by Ruby Tuesday. Raising Cane's has earned national recognition for its straightforward, customer-beloved offerings, including chicken tenders, wavy fries, Texas toast, coleslaw, and their signature Cane's Sauce. The location plans to launch in Fall 2026.

W CO. EXPRESS
132 Person St.
The storefront is being prepared, but no official opening date has been announced. W Co. Express promises real chicken with bold flavors.
Stay tuned for updates.

Dining Guide: Valentine's Day

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Wednesday, 28 January 2026

Written by Staff Report

We know you just took down the Christmas tree and swept up the confetti from New Year's, but believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. Valentine’s Day has a way of sneaking up on us, and suddenly the pressure is on to find the perfect place for that perfect night. Whether you’re planning a candlelit dinner, a cozy casual date, or something with a little small‑town charm, our local area has a surprisingly rich mix of options.
This guide brings together some of the most loved, most atmospheric, and most date‑worthy restaurants across Fayetteville, Hope Mills, Spring Lake, and Raeford — so you can focus on the fun part: enjoying the night with someone special.

Fayetteville

Luigi’s Italian Chophouse & Bar, 528 N McPherson Church Rd.
910-864-1810
If your idea of romance includes dim lighting, a glass of wine, and the aroma of garlic and herbs drifting through the air, Luigi’s is your spot. This long‑time local favorite blends Italian comfort with steakhouse sophistication. It’s warm, intimate, and perfect for couples who want a traditional Valentine’s experience. https://luigischophouse.com/

Chris’s Steak & Seafood House, 2620 Raeford Rd.
910-485-4242
For those who love a more upscale evening, Chris’s delivers. Think rich wood interiors, expertly prepared steaks, and a timeless atmosphere that feels made for special occasions. It’s the kind of place where you linger over dessert because the night feels too good to rush. https://www.fayettevillesteakhouse.com/

Scruboaks Contemporary American Pub, 5780 Ramsey St., Suite 108
910-884-3072
Fresh, thoughtful, and full of character, ScrubOaks Contemporary American Pub offers a cozy setting that works beautifully for a relaxed Valentine’s Day dinner.
The menu shifts with the seasons, highlighting quality ingredients and dishes made to order, giving every plate a just‑for‑you feel. Portions are generous, flavors are comforting, and the atmosphere strikes that easy balance between casual and special — perfect for couples who want a laid‑back but memorable night out. https://www.scruboakspub.com/

Antonella's Italian Ristorante, 300 Hay St.
910-486-0046
If you are looking for an elegant dining establishment located in the heart of Downtown Fayetteville, this is the place. Treat yourself and your special someone to classic Italian dishes, fresh seafood specialties, and even vegan options. Don't forget to complement your meal with a crafted signature cocktail. https://www.antonellasitalianristorante.com/

Spring Lake

La Vista Italian Restaurant, 1107 N. Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
910-229-3588
Warm, comforting, and full of charm, La Vista Italian Restaurant brings classic Italian flavors to a cozy Spring Lake setting.
It’s a great pick for couples who want something delicious without the fuss of a formal night out. The dishes are hearty, the portions generous, and the atmosphere relaxed with just the right touch of romance. https://www.lavistaitaliannc.com/

Sawaddee Thai & Chinese Restaurant, 1006 N. Bragg Blvd., Spring Lake
910-436-5757
Vibrant and full of flavor, Sawaddee Thai & Chinese Restaurant offers a cozy spot for couples looking to enjoy something a little different on Valentine’s Day.
This family‑run favorite serves generous portions of comforting Thai classics, from fragrant curries to perfectly seasoned stir‑fried dishes. The atmosphere is relaxed yet inviting, making it easy to linger and enjoy the moment. And for a sweet finish, their homemade desserts add just the right touch of indulgence to a romantic meal. https://tinyurl.com/cr4a3b2e

Hope Mills

Sammio's Italian Restaurant, 3057 N. Main St., Hope Mills
910-424-4000
Comforting, classic, and easy to love, Sammio’s Italian Restaurant delivers a warm setting that suits a relaxed Valentine’s Day dinner. The menu is filled with familiar favorites, ranging from pasta and pizza to hearty chicken, steak, and seafood dishes, all served in generous portions that make sharing effortless.
The atmosphere is welcoming yet informal, providing couples with a cozy space to unwind and enjoy a satisfying meal together. https://www.sammiositalianrestaurant.com/

Raeford

The Creekside Mill, 1825 Johnson Mill Rd., Raeford
910-878-2376
Rustic, inviting, and beloved by locals, The Creekside Mill is a great pick for couples who want a casual but memorable night out. The menu is hearty, the service friendly, and the vibe just right for a low‑key Valentine’s dinner. .https://thecreeksidemill.com/

No matter what kind of Valentine’s Day you’re planning — elegant, cozy, adventurous, or delightfully simple — you will find a restaurant that fits the moment. From Fayetteville’s romantic classics to Raeford’s small‑town gems, you’re never far from a memorable meal.

Health & Wellness: Where to go when sick or hurt: Make the right stop

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Wednesday, 28 January 2026

Written by Lia Tremblaya

Even the most organized, orderly life is full of mishaps that can derail a well-planned week. When your car starts to make a funny noise, or your heating abruptly quits, you probably know exactly where to go and who to call to handle it.
But when it’s your own body, and a sudden illness or injury has come out of nowhere, the options might be confusing. Is this cut an emergency situation? Can this sore throat wait for an appointment with your regular doctor?
Where can you go for something that isn’t really an emergency, but probably should be looked at soon?
SameDay Medical, just opened at 6201 Raeford Rd., is helping to cover the gap between “rush me to the hospital” and “let’s see what it looks like in a few days.” Open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, they offer plenty of time for you to be seen for what ails you. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can call to make a same-day appointment that suits your schedule.
“So if you know you need to come in after work, or after the kids get out of school,” said Brittany Bailey, Service Line Director of CFV Medical Group Primary Care & SameDay Medical Clinics, “you can set an appointment for that time and not have to wait as long when you arrive.”
SameDay is ready to help with the little things that come out of nowhere. Illnesses like flu, strep and COVID can be diagnosed and treated quickly, getting you back to bed in minimal time. With X-ray services on site beginning January, you can get speedy clarity on whether that twisted ankle is a sprain or a fracture.
And despite their swiftness with all these services, SameDay Medical doesn’t carry the urgent-care price tag you might be used to.
“We charge patients the same copay they would have if they went to their primary care physician,” said Bailey. “Whether they are a walk-in or made an appointment, they won’t get charged the higher amount.”
Of course, for actual emergencies, you should head to the nearest emergency department. Things like shortness of breath, chest pain, unbearable abdominal pain or signs of stroke could signal a problem that SameDay Medical may not be able to help with.
“If someone comes in with any of those things, we of course would not turn them away,” said Bailey. “We would get them stabilized and transported to the emergency department. But to start there would save a lot of time and get them treated more quickly.”
Keeping non-emergencies out of the emergency department helps the hospital run more efficiently, and handling minor cases quickly can really lighten the load for doctors around town.
“If a primary care provider is booked out for a month and can’t get that patient in,” said Bailey, “they can refer them to SameDay Medical. It’s already been so helpful.”
To make an appointment at SameDay Medical, call 910-609-3780. If you have access to the MyChart patient portal, you can go there to schedule an appointment online.

(Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Valley Health)

Walk toward peace: An encounter with Venerable Monks

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Wednesday, 28 January 2026

Written by Tina Sheptak Turner

It was late October when I first learned that a group of monks had left their temple in Texas and begun walking—step by step, mile by mile—toward Washington, D.C. in the name of peace. The moment I heard it, something inside me shifted. It felt less like news and more like a quiet awakening.
These were not monks seeking attention, influence, or headlines. They carried no demands, no slogans, no noise. They carried only what was freely placed in their hands. And they were not simply Buddhist monks—they were referred to as Venerable Monks, a title that reflects deep spiritual discipline and devotion.
Their journey wasn’t a protest. It was a prayer made visible. A moving meditation across the heart of America. The simple truth that these Venerable Monks felt called to walk for peace on our soil made me stop and breathe. It felt rare. It felt serious. It felt sacred.
I knew I didn’t just want to witness it—I needed to. I wanted to stand in their path, even for a moment, and feel the presence of something so intentional, so humble, so pure.
When their route shifted toward Columbia, South Carolina—just a couple of hours from Fayetteville—I made myself a promise. No matter where they were on January 12, I would go. My friend Bev agreed to join me, and by grace, alignment, or something greater, we met them exactly where my heart had hoped.
We left my house at 4 a.m. and reached Ridgeway, South Carolina, before sunrise. The cold bit at our skin but knowing these Venerable Monks had walked through the same chill—some of them barefoot—made the discomfort feel small.
The crowd gathered there was gentle, warm, and kind. We didn’t yet know that Aloka, their beloved canine companion, would be heading into surgery that morning, yet he still came out to greet everyone before leaving for the vet. Even that moment felt like a lesson in devotion.
We walked with the monks briefly—only a few hundred feet—but even that short distance felt like an honor. Then we drove ahead, weaving through back roads until we found a quiet stretch where it was just us. Watching them approach in silence, wrapped in purpose, was unforgettable.
I held out a few polished stones engraved with “peace” and “love,” not expecting any monk to take one. They only accept what they can carry, and a stone seemed unlikely. But Bhikkhu Pannakara, the leader of the walk, slowed his pace, looked with intention, smiled, and accepted one.
Then others followed. My hand emptied, and my heart overflowed. One monk even offered me a flower in return. I held up a sign that made them smile—one chuckled, another took a picture. Even that small exchange felt like a blessing.
We continued leapfrogging ahead, finding another quiet place to greet them. Later, by following a support vehicle, we discovered their lunch stop—a small, unannounced location with almost no parking. Yet somehow, space opened for us. The monks shared their meal, and the crowd was invited to join. The food was simple and delicious. It felt like being welcomed into something
ancient and generous.
Bhikkhu Pannakara spoke softly, but his words carried the weight of truth. What I heard was this:
Every step toward peace is a step away from division.
Choosing peace means choosing unity over conflict, hope over fear, and action over silence.
When we walk toward peace—together—we create a path where understanding rises, and harmony becomes possible.
Before we left, the Venerable Monks offered us love and peace bracelets—handwoven, blessed, and tied onto our wrists with individual prayers. A simple gesture yet deeply moving.
The support team noticed my sign again, and when I offered it to them, they were grateful. They took a picture and asked us to place it on the donation table.
I assumed that would be the end of it; after all, they cannot take everything offered to them due to limited space. But as they packed up, we saw them pick it up again—smiling, admiring it, and carrying it into a support vehicle. That small moment felt like a circle closing.
If you have the chance to stand in the path of these Venerable Monks, don’t hesitate.
This walk is rare, and it matters. It feels like a collective soul check—a gentle reminder in a world drowning in ego, distraction, and division.
Some may try to turn it into a spectacle, but if you stand there and feel it, you understand. The walk awakens something ancient—a remembering, a reckoning, a call back to our shared humanity.
To the Venerable Monks walking in silence, purpose, and devotion:
We see you.
Your presence brings our unrest to the surface—not to shame us, but to heal us.
May your steps remain peaceful, and may your journey be protected.

(Photo: Tina Sheptak Turner holds a sign for the Venerable Monks on their route to Washington D.C. Turner felt a calling to view the peaceful march of the monks and drove to Ridgeway, South Carolina from Fayetteville to see the spiritual event. "It felt rare. It felt serious. It felt sacred." The monks ended up taking the sign to continue the journey with them, and gave Turner and her friend handwoven peace bracelets. Photo courtesy of Tina Sheptak Turner)