#soNCsavvy

Events in North Carolina

Event Recap | @VidrioRaleigh #Wine Market & Tasting |#VidrioRaleigh #SavorLife #Raleigh #NC #Events

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🍷 Raleigh, Get ready to enjoy a fun evening discovering great wines and tasting savory hors d’oeuvres! See. Swirl. Smell. Sip. And Savor over 25 wines from around the world at Vidrio on Thu, Mar 28 at 6pm-9pm! [The first 50 guests in attendance will receive an exclusive Vidrio bottle opener!] In case you missed it, I hosted a giveaway and created a video sharing details for this event:

SHOP |For just $30, guests in attendance can shop for a new favorite wine and order bottles to take home!

There will be a wide range of options for all tastes. Whether you are new to wines and want to expand your palette, or an experienced wine connoisseur looking to get your hands on small production and esoteric labels, all kinds of wines, * New World * Old World * Back Vintage, will be available!

SNACK | Guests will also have a range of savory, light hors d’oeuvres prepared by Vidrio’s culinary team to snack on while you stroll around the Fiera Bar & Lounge, located on the 2nd Floor.

This restaurant is known for it’s delicious Meditteranean cuisine, so I personally was looking forward to enjoying their tasty bites!

SIP | Wine Tastings are always a great way to discover something new and learn more about wine. It is also fun date night idea or girls night out!

Also included with the ticket price is the chance to try 25 wines from around the world! What a great way to experience other wines you may not have tried before. No passport needed.

SobeSavvy Tip: If you are missing this event, no worries because they have a lot of these types of events! I encourage you to SIGN UP to receive updates >> here. The next event happens Friday,April 5th for their First Friday Cocktail Roundtable Series! *[Read my recap of the first round of this monthly event>> here.]

So come out and get ready to have a wonderful night! Follow me @SobeSavvy on Instagram to see highlights via my instastories plus, WATCH >>here for my full event recap of this event on YouTube.

*Tell me about a recent wine you discovered or your favorite wine below? 🍷

VIDRIO
500 GLENWOOD AVE.
RALEIGH, NC. 27603
919-803-6033

https://www.vidrioraleigh.com

Event Recap | 7th Annual Bull City Food & Beer Experience @BullCityEXP @DPAC #Durham #Food #Beer #Fun

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On March 24, 2019, 30+ of Durham’s Finest Restaurants Paired with 30+ Fantastic Breweries at the 7th Annual Bull City Food & Beer Experience! This event was held at DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center) in Durham, NC and presented by Tyler’s Restaurant & Taproom and Sam’s Quik Shop to benefit the ELLERBE CREEK WATERSHED ASSOCIATION.

Last year, I had the opportunity to cover the 6th Annual Bull City Food and Beer Experience>>read recap here<< and can assure you it’s a great time for foodies and beer lovers alike!
The event features restaurants paired with breweries spread throughout all three DPAC floors featuring unlimited samplings and the Stella Artois Onstage Experience showcasing live music & local food trucks.

Admission into the Bull City Food & Beer Experience includes:

  • Souvenir Glass
  • Food Sampling from 30 of Durham’s finest restaurants in addition to local food trucks and food vendors
  • Beer Sampling from local and national breweries
  • A limited number of VIP Experience Ticket Holders will enjoy all elements of regular admission PLUS 30-minute early event access, a private entrance and restrooms, specialty food tastings, exclusive T-shirt, private access to VIP tasting lounge with specialty spirit, rare beer and wine tasting only available to VIP experience ticket holders.

Take a look at the 2019 List of Restaurant/Breweries:

Here are some of my Favorite Pairings and Highlights:

Harvest 18 – Tröegs Independent Brewing

Alley Twenty Six – Golden Road Brewing

The Pit – Bold Rock Hard Cider

Bleu Olive – Compass Rose Brewery

Qspresso – Stem Ciders

Stella Artois Onstage Experience featuring Live Music

Check out more of my favorite bites from the night:

This event was simply wonderful. The variety of food vendors on 3 floors allowed for our tastebuds to never get bored. Most dishes were presented in the perfect bite size so my beer samples never spilled! Some chefs chose to incorporate their beer pairing as an ingredient in whatever dish they created. I also loved how most beer vendors took the time to educate guests on various beer backstories and fermentation methods. It was simply the perfect way to spend a beautiful early spring afternoon!

👀Watch my YouTube Video event recap here>> https://youtu.be/XByGcmJptZo

For more information about participating Restaurants & Breweries, how to donate to Ellerbe Creek Watershed Association or if you want to sign up for details of their next event in 2020, please visit – BULLCITYEXPERIENCE.COM

#FamilyFun | 5 Reasons To See UniverSoul Circus @UniverSoulCirc | March 20-31,2019 in #RaleighNC

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Disclosure: I received complimentary tickets to attend opening night as a blogger in the Raleigh/Durham area. All opinions are 100% my own.

Hey Raleigh, NC, Get ready for the triumphant return of America’s No. 1 Circus! Universoul Circus is back, now in its 26th year, to give you live family entertainment extravaganza! If you have never been before, or maybe you are a returning fan like me, I am here to share 5 Reasons To See Universoul Circus with your family and friends!

1. DIVERSITY

FACT: There are 13+ Countries Represented at UniverSoul Circus! Enjoy one-of-a-kind performances from around the world – all coming together as one under a single ring big top. Led by Ringmaster Lucky from South Africa and his long time Sidekick Zeke, the 2019 edition of UniverSoul Circus features contortionists from Guinea, Skaters from Cuba, Daredevil Motorcyclists from the United States, a High Wire Act from Colombia and Gabon, Trampoline Acrobats from Cuba and Ethiopia, Teeterboard Drillers from Mongolia, Solo Trapeze from Brazil, Trick Rescue Pooches from Colombia and Russia, a Cossack Horse Act from Kazakhstan, Cuba, Guinea and Mexico, Fresh the Clownsss from the United States, and many more surprises!

Teeterboard Drillers from Mongolia | Photo Credit: UniverSoul Circus

2. SIGHTS

UniverSoul Circus is rated as one of the top two circuses in America along with Cirque du Soleil and one of the reasons is because of all the exciting and electrifying acts! This once in a lifetime thrill-a-minute spectacle comes at you like a high-speed rollercoaster! If you like thrills and live entertainment, UniverSoul Circus has all of that!

Daredevil Motorcyclists from the United States | Photo Credit: UniverSoul Circus

3. SOUNDS

Celebrating 26 amazing years in 2019, UniverSoul Circus is a highly interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel. It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of pop culture globally by bringing them center stage with a cast of international performers. FACT: There are over 11+ Performing Acts!

Photo Credit | UniverSoul Circus

4. SOUL

Celebrated around the world for spreading a soulful dose of unity, inclusion and diversity under its red and yellow striped big top, UniverSoul Circus was created in 1994 by a man named Cedric Walker who had a vision of creating a circus with an inclusive, jovial and soulful atmosphere. Participants are immersed into a global dimension, drawing multicultural, multinational, and multigenerational bonding through performance art for all people to enjoy and be entertained.

5. FAMILY-FRIENDLY FUN

The last time my family and I attended was the Summer of 2017 and we had so much fun! [You can read my 2017 recap>>>here]. UniverSoul’s fresh approach to family friendly live entertainment has garnered it a coveted spot as one of Ticketmaster’s top ten most requested family events. When people ask me how is it? I simply say it’s a good time for all ages and encourage them to see for themselves why UniverSoul Circus is the #BestCircusEver!

Me and my family at UniverSoul Circus, 2017

*SobeSavvyGiveaway: I hosted a flash giveaway on Instagram and the winner(s) are…drum roll..Congrats to Meka H. and Kiara R. of Raleigh,NC

https://www.instagram.com/p/BvNP0Y_HKe3/

GET TICKETS on sale now via: www.ticketmaster.com

CONNECT:

@universoulcircus (Instagram)

@universoulcirc (Twitter)

www.facebook.com/universoulcir

www.youtube.com/universoulcircus

*Be sure to visit website to signup and become an insider and get updates for your city tour stop/dates at: www.universoulcircus.com

FOLLOW my highlights from opening night on Instagram @SobeSavvy and check out my video recap on YouTube! >> https://youtu.be/iZ_6pQQdtkU

RALEIGH:

Wednesday, March 20 thru Sunday March 31, 2019

Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek

3801 Rock Quarry Rd

Raleigh, NC 27610

* Next City >>Newark,NJ on 4/3/19

HAVE YOU BEEN TO UNIVERSOUL CIRCUS BEFORE? WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT? Let me know in the comments below! See you under the Big Top!🎪

Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds takes you on a Musical Adventure thru March 24 @RLT1936 #ThreeLittleBirdsRLT

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Tonight is opening night of Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds, presented by Raleigh Little Theatre. Join Ziggy and Nansi on a worldly adventure, enlivened by the fantastic songs of renowned Reggae artist, BobMarley. If you’re visiting Raleigh,NC, this is one musical you don’t want to miss. Now thru March 24, you can take your family to see Jamaica come to life and enjoy a night of theatre!

ABOUT THE PLAY

Meet Ziggy, a shy boy who would rather stay at home and watch television than explore the island of Jamaica. Over the course of his onstage journey, with some help from his friend Nansi, he realizes that the real adventures can be found outside, amid the birds and jungles and beaches. The wonderful music of Bob Marley helps bring their wordly adventure to life!

Ziggy-Jireh Ijeoma and Nansi- Seanna Osborne |Photographer- Jeannine Borzello

“It’s really teaching our kids that no matter what their troubles or fears, there’s still a little bit of sunshine out there. It’s up to the parents and the village, the Bible will tell you. You have to surround yourself with good people so you can grow into great people. I think the lyrics, the music, and performance will entertain everybody, young and old,” said Cedella Marley on the show’s message in an article by the Wall Street Journal.

SPECIAL DATES

Enjoy fresh milk & cookies after the Thursday, March 14 show of Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds provided by Insomnia Cookies!

Enjoy the sounds of Jamrock in between Saturday, March 16 performances. Jamrock was founded in 1995 through the desire of a few Jamaicans to hear authentic music, featuring true “yard style” reggae rhythms, reggae standards, and an authentic Jamaican sound.

On Saturday, March 30 at 1 pm, RLT will present a sensory-friendly performance of “Three Little Birds.” A sensory-friendly performance is modified for families and friends with children or adults who have difficulty with sensitivity. Sensory-friendly seating is general admission allowing individuals extra space if needed.

The Cast of Three Little Birds | Photographer- Jeannine Borzello

REVIEW

I am seeing the show on Saturday, March 9th at 5pm with my husband and our 7 year old daughter, #outandaboutAva. I am so excited to review this production because we got married in Jamica in 1999 and I am a huge Bob Marley fan. When our daughter was a newborn and my husband had to travel for work, I was a stay at home Mom who relied on the songs of Bob Marley to get me thru the day. Songs like “No Woman No Cry“, “Is This Love” and “Three Little Birds” helped me to remember to …don’t worry about a thing, because every little thing is gonna be alright!

Cedella- India Williams and Ziggy-Jireh Ijeoma | Photographer- Jeannine Borzello

Me and my #HeighPartyof3 loved the play. This one hour play had such a special vibe and awesome message. Go outside and see the world around you no matter where you reside. I also loved the live music, the dance and the brief Jamaican history lesson that weaved together all the cultures that make up Jamaica. The creative storytelling was full of fun and the set was simply beautiful.

The Cast of Three Little Birds | Photographer- Jeannine Borzello

“Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds” is on stage March 8 –24. Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 919-821-3111, Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m., or by visiting the theatre’s website at www.raleighlittletheatre.org.

WHICH BOB MARLEY SONG IS YOUR FAVORITE?

Raleigh Little Theatre

301 Pogue Street

Raleigh, NC

My Top 8 Day Date Ideas in Raleigh, NC | SobeSavvy.com

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Time like money doesn’t grow on trees. Finding time to date can be challenging as parents, however creating “couple” time is something I have become good at. While having a date night out can be rare for us, going on day dates have become something we enjoy. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, I wanted to share My Top 8 Day Date Ideas in Raleigh,NC :

Admire Art while on a Museum Date at NCMA

Art and nature are two things I love and NCMA has a wonderful way of celebrating the beauty of both. We have not only enjoyed the exhibits inside but have spent time walking along their grassy pathways adorned with public sculptures. A memorable day date for me was during Art in Bloom, which pairs works of art with floral bouquets. This 4 day fundraiser returns March 21–24. Tickets available at ncartmuseum.org/bloom or (919) 715-5923

Relax with a Couples Mani/Pedi Spa Date at POLISHED NAIL BAR

If you read my previous post about treating your Valentine to some pampering time, then you know why I love treating myself and my loved ones to a mani/pedi at Polished Nail Bar. It’s a great place to meet your girls, take your man, treat your Mom or even have some alone time. The mimosas along with their great service and comfy throne chairs will leave you and your date relaxed!

https://www.instagram.com/p/Be0RXUShYA6/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=qlbyj42c26um

Treat yourselves to something sweet and go on an Ice Cream Date at RALEIGH ROLLS

We scream for ice cream and now have a special place that makes me wanna shout! That place would be Raleigh Rolls, located at the new Morgan Street Food Hall. This is more than a mere ice cream place. It is a unique way to enjoy an age old favorite. Instead of “scooping” they “roll” up ice cream into your own customized concoction. They start with a base and you build on from there with your choice of toppings. This Valentine’s Day ❤ they are offering a special Red Velvet ice cream & a bottle of champagne for $15! Share with your date and let the good times “roll”!

Go on a Movie Date and get a drink/bite to eat right at your seat at ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE

Anytime we want to catch a movie in a special setting we head down to Alamo Drafthouse. This is a retro moviehouse experience. Full bar and delicious menu items are at your disposal. You can even eat at your seat. Alamo has it all. They have a real movie rental store in the lobby. How retro and fun is that !? Did I also mention they have “bottomless” popcorn? Read more about my Alamo experience >>>here.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BiFVlXXAzuX/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=198qoakny0krd

Have a Breakfast with Bae Coffee Date at MORNING TIMES

Every city needs that classic coffee shop where you can have a great breakfast in a nice atmosphere with amazing coffee. Morning Times would be THAT spot in downtown Raleigh. Read my post to see why locals love their vibe. Look carefully at that latte, it just may have a foam heart in it .

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bf0tC_ghKsm/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=6uo4n7dyb7tw

Spice up your life and have a Lunch Date at CURRY IN A HURRY

Spicy and mild is how some folks describe my husband and myself! The perfect lunch for us is Curry In A Hurry. Most people know them from their amazing food truck here. Last year, they decided to open their first brick and mortar store at the Morgan Street Food Hall. Indian/Asian curries are their specialties. Their most popular dish is their butter chicken. If that is too mild, go for something like their Green Chicken Curry which definitely has more of a kick. Read my full review>>here and make plans to spend your lunch hour at Curry In A Hurry.

Grab a cocktail or two from the NEW Social Hour menu at ORO

Do you enjoy good conversation and cocktails? Head to the bar at ORO Restaurant & Lounge in Downtown Raleigh for their new Social Hour. On Mon -Thurs, 5pm-7pm items like Truffle fries, lobster crab bites and sliders along with wine and ” The Social Butterfly” cocktail are just $5 on their bar menu. The amazing flavors in such a gorgeous space will leave you and your date impressed!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtRX9AxnNmt/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=1ldvrmwol39ap

Enjoy an early Dinner Date for 2 at DRIFTWOOD

Whenever hubby and I want a taste of southern hospitality, we make our way to Driftwood Southern Kitchen in Lafayette Village in North Raleigh. Pork Rinds awaits at the table for you and your date to enjoy! They have daily drink specials and delicious food that is locally sourced when possible. My suggestions would be to start with the Brussels Sprouts and end with the Vanilla Cheesecake. Their brisket is some of the best and the Blackened NC Catfish is fantastic! You and your date will no longer be hungry but happy after dining at Driftwood.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BtpXGY3HYkx/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=ge71zx7oa53u

SobeSavvy Tip: Just a few steps away from Driftwood in Lafayette Village is Watkins Flowers of Distinction. Why not surprise your date with flowers or a beautiful candle. They have so many unique gifts that would add a bit of wow to any date!

There are so many more places to explore in Raleigh. No matter what you or your date like to do, I hope this post can be a resource for you. I plan to update it as I discover other faves but these are just 8 that we feel are great!

Where is your favorite place to go on a Day Date in Raleigh, or your city? Let me know in the comments below and thanks for reading! ❤

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#TRAVEL | Take A Staycation at the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown +Valentines Day Giveaway

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This past weekend, I had the pleasure of leaving the kiddo with Nana and checking into a hotel for an overnight staycation. I had a blog assignment to cover an event at a restaurant and chose a place that ended up being just over 100 steps away (yep, I counted for fun). The Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown proved to be an ideal stay and here are my favorite features of this hotel:

• Convenient Location


Located at 600 Glenwood Avenue, this property makes the ideal base camp for a night out. Being the middle of all the action means parking our car for the evening and simply strolling. Glenwood South is one of Raleigh’s premiere entertaining and dining areas. This half a mile stretch features over a dozen restaurants, bars and nightclubs. I had the pleasure of dining at VIDRIO and attending an event there, which made an overnight stay in the neighborhood at the Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown the perfect idea!

• Welcoming Lobby Area

As soon as we walked into the hotel we were greeted with the hotel’s mantra… “MAKING YOU HAPPY MAKES US HAPPY”. Who doesn’t like the sound of that?! We were greeted warmly in their bright lobby. Next to check in is a very neat little snack shop for those late night cravings. Plenty of information, maps and guides to give you some ideas of what to do in downtown Raleigh. On the way to the elevator we noticed quite a bit of comfy seating areas where guests can relax. I loved the silver pineapple which is the symbol of hospitality/welcome.

• Spacious Rooms

Having that famous Hampton Inn comfort awaiting us made our night that much more special. We had a spacious studio suite with a microwave, mini fridge and a huge 43 Inch HDTV for our viewing pleasure. I also appreciated the amount of workspace available and the vanity area was big enough for both of our toiletries. The studio also had a sofabed. Take a look at my YouTube video for an inside look of the room.

• Free Breakfast

We awakened hungry and lucky for us all we had to do was go downstairs. That is where Hampton Inn’s “On The House” Breakfast was being served. Everything from self serve waffles to omelettes were on the menu Saturday morning. I really loved the healthy choices that they offered like oatmeal and yogurt. Their Robust coffee in bed is a must every time I stay at any Hampton Inn.

• Fitness Center + Pool

When I travel, I attempt to get in a workout and this property made it easy. They have cardio machines, free weights, and more to help keep you healthy and fit. In addition to the fitness center, this location has an indoor heated pool.

Hotel Information

Check-in: 3:00 pm

Check-out:12:00 pm

Smoking: Non-Smoking

Parking: Self parking: $8.00

Valet: Not Available

Service animals allowed: Yes

Pets allowed: No

SobeSavvy Tip: Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown is hosting a giveaway just in time for Valentine’s Day! Win one FREE night of your choice between February 14-17! Click here to enter. See details on the hotel’s Instagram.

Thanks for reading and Good Luck!

Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown
600 Glenwood Ave

Raleigh, NC 27603

Website

Check out @VidrioRaleigh #FirstFridayRaleigh Cocktail Series and Stay for Dinner! #VidrioRaleigh #SavorLife

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Having a little one means sometimes foregoing a Friday night on the town. However, this past Friday Nana was in town and that meant one thing..DATE NIGHT! Lucky for us, a spot here in Raleigh that we had been wanting to try was hosting a special event. The place that has been on our radar is called VIDRIO.

This mediterranean inspired restaurant and bar is located in the heart of the bustling Glenwood Avenue South district. VIDRIO, which means glass in Spanish,  has been a social media star due to their savory food, exciting sips and their stunning decor. They also offer experiences such as wine dinners, private events, and wine tastings. On February 1, 2019, VIDRIO kicked off their “First Friday Cocktail Roundtable | A Spirit Filled Room”! Check out this promo video I made to share about the event:

EVENT DETAILS•When: Every first Friday of the month, 6pm-10pm
•Where: VIDRIO‘s Bar Area
•What: A monthly contest that puts 2 bartenders up against each other in a craft cocktail contest

•Why: It’s a fun night out and a chance to experience the sights, smells, and flavors of the world’s best spirits and craft cocktails. You vote for your favorite to move to their finale, and get featured as Cocktail of the Year!
•How Much: $8.00 Craft Cocktails
EVENT RECAP

This week the visiting bartender was Matthew Bettinger. He is a mixologist of the highest caliber. His raw knowledge of the spirits and the fresh ingredients he chose and paired was amazing. Alex Bridges, a member of VIDRIO‘s beverage team is equally passionate and skilled in the art of cocktail-mixing! The crowd was enthusiastic and curious about each cocktail. Each month a VIDRIO bartender comes up with a cocktail to compete with the visiting bartender’s cocktail. It starts with a “base” spirit and they build on that. This month the spirit was Lunazul Blanco tequila.

First up was the creation of VIDRIO Bartender Alex Bridges called, “It’s  Been Fun“. The ingredients that caught my eye was aloe vera and peach jam! Having an actual slice of blood orange in the glass made this a very attractive drink.
The visiting Bartender, Matthew Bettinger, created a drink called “A Friendly Visit“. He infused Rosehip & Hibiscus into a cordial and added it to his cocktail creation. It was refreshing and pleasing to my palate.
Both were very different from each other and both very well done. I voted for “A Friendly Visit“, while my husband went for the “It’s Been Fun“! Turns out the cocktail that won was…drum roll, I mean martini shake please….”It’s Been Fun“!

It was a great time! Grab your favorite  drinking friends, or plan a date night and mark your calenders to return for the next one in March. Click here for details of the next event!

DINNER FOR 2

After such a fun experience at the cocktail roundtable, we decided to stay and have a dining experience here. We moved to a table for 2 in their spacious dining room. It has a endless ceiling with blown colorful glass on an entire wall. It was a surreal setting to say the least.

Both of us wanted some wine and lucky for us VIDRIO has 48 wines..ON TAP! They have something no matter what your wine taste dictates. We were as little undecided and ultimately chose to do one of their curated wine flight offerings. We went with 3 reds. Each 3 oz pour was very different from each other. One was dry, one medium and one had a touch of sweetness. Each sat on a cute descriptive mat with the names and varietal tasting notes. It was actually quite a beautiful display.

Oysters On The Half Shell were on deck for an appetizer. Half a dozen bivalves with all the trimmings. Freshly shucked and delicious. The full menu is available at the bar and prior to our dinner, we enjoyed their tasty and tender Moroccan Beef Skewers. I am a sauce person and loved every bit of the harissa Greek yogurt to dip the skewers in. Since we were not that hungry, we decided to just split a dish. Their Short Rib Bolognese Pasta came highly recommended by our friendly and attentive waitress. She explained how the the pasta and even their ricotta with lemon zest was made in house. It was very flavorful and expertly done. The pasta was thin and light and the short rib was incredible. This was one of the best pasta dishes I have had since one night in Rome 8 years ago! Their dessert menu had some great choices but we were beyond satisfied and called it a night.

Make reservations now for your own great night at VIDRIO.
SobeSavvy Tip: Reserve your table today for Valentine’s Day at VIDRIO on Thursday, February, 14th for only $50 per person. ❤

VIDRIO
500 GLENWOOD AVE.
RALEIGH, NC. 27603
919-803-6033

First Look @ORORaleigh ‘s NEW Social Hour Menu Bar Bites + Drink Specials, All Items $5! #DowntownRaleigh

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ORO Restaurant & Lounge | Social Hour Menu Review by SobeSavvy.com

Hey Raleigh! Looking for a new, hot spot to grab a glass of wine, cocktail or two and meet friends for a bite to eat after work? Well I have just the place for you. ORO Restaurant & Lounge, located in Downtown Raleigh, offers a fun, brand new Social Hour menu and SobeSavvy.com was invited to check it out. Here is what you need to know before you go and trust me, you will want to go ASAP!

ORO Restaurant & Lounge is chic, and sleek with white/wood modern decor and a mezzanine & a fireplace

SOCIAL HOUR

The new Social Hour menu was rolled out on Monday, January 28, 2019. It is offered in the Bar area only Monday- Thursday from 5pm-7pm. All items are just $5.00! Oh how I love a deal!

• EAT

There are five delicious food items on the menu to choose from. The variety offered allows everyone to find something to eat no matter the dietary restrictions or choices. The portions are enough for one person to enjoy but also shareable. Everything was so good that it is hard to pick a favorite. So my suggestion is order one of each and enjoy them all!

Beef Sliders | blue cheese | carmelized onions

Truffle Fries | parmesan | truffle oil

Lobster & Crab Bites | greens | citrus aioli

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers | green onion

Vegetable Spring Rolls | sweet chili sauce

• DRINK

Also on the Social Hour menu are two wine choices from Century Cellars. Order a glass of Chardonnay or Cabernet Sauvignon to enjoy or if your are in the mood for a cocktail, get The Social Butterfly. It’s made with NC’s own Social House Vodka and your choice of mixer ( I asked for ginger beer and my friend got cranberry juice). It is served with a cute butterfly on the straw! It’s a refreshing and fun way to drink local!

ORO Social Hour Menu | DRINK | The Social Butterfly

SobeSavvy Tip: Elevate your drinking experience by ordering from the Specialty Cocktail menu. You’ll be impressed by the taste and presentation of these innovative cocktails! Watch this video and make plans to sip and see for yourself!

Specialty Cocktails | Weird Science | Smoke & Mirrors

ORO is a great place to have lunch [Read about my lunch experience at ORO >>here.], a romantic dinner, meet with co-workers after work, host a celebration event or hang with your girlfriends! Whatever the occasion, ORO will make it special. Cheers!

Lovely Leslie of @SobeSavvy and Meka Harrell of @hwthblog meet up for a fun Mom’s Night Out at ORO Restaurant & Lounge

CONNECT WITH ME Facebook |YouTube| Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter

ORO Restaurant & Lounge

18 E. Martin Street

Raleigh, NC 27601

http://www.ororaleigh.com

5 #FamilyFun Tips For Your Visit To SEA LIFE Charlotte – Concord Aquarium @SEALIFECC

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Disclaimer: Although complimentary tickets were provided to facilitate this review, the opinions are 100% my own.

Family Fun Visit to SEA LIFE | SobeSavvy.com


SEA LIFE is the international aquarium chain that has over 50 locations throughout America, Europe, Australia and Asia. It is literally the world’s biggest aquarium brand. Lucky for us they have one right here in North Carolina. We recently enjoyed a Sunday Funday visit to their Charlotte/Concord, NC location and had a blast! Planning to go to this must see attraction soon?

Here are my 5 Family Fun Tips For Your Visit To SEA LIFE Charlotte – Concord Aquarium:

1. It’s GREAT LOCATION allows you to plan a day at SEA LIFE and surrounding activities. SEA LIFE is located at the popular Concord Mills shopping complex. This makes it very easy to start or end your day here prior or post seeing a movie at AMC theatres, dining or shopping at this huge mall! The best entrance is at entry 7 next to The Speedpark at Concord Mills.
2. SEA LIFE is FUN-SIZED and perfect for kids. Some aquariums are so vast that it is impossible to actually see or do everything in one visit. The layout of this aquarium allows parents to enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed. Kids can explore the entire place in one visit and stay excited for the entire time. There are cool spaces for kids to crawl under to get a closer look at the marine life.  The whole family can walk thru the 180 degree Ocean Tunnel for an even closer look. It’s a great way to feel like you are underwater without getting wet!
3. Everyone will LEARN MORE when they explore SEA LIFE. Conservation & Education is important and SEA LIFE’s mission is to Breed, Rescue and Protect. This attraction wants visitors to be amazed at the natural marine world and protect it for future generations to enjoy! There are fun facts and reminders all around the aquarium to teach us more about the sea animals and the many ways we can help.
4. There is plenty of HANDS-ON FUN! SEA LIFE has all sorts of interactive things for kids to participate in. Every child gets a free explorer book to log stamps in for a chance to win a “fin-tastic” prize!  Our daughter had fun hunting for the dive stations to find her stamps and she really enjoyed seeing what a real starfish feels like at the Touchpool.
5. Ever wondered how they keep the sharks from eating the other fish in the tank? Want to know how they get an aquarium to fit in a mall? Find that out and more when you take the SEA LIFE’s Behind The Scenes tour. We had a chance to see what it takes to maintain the animals health and keep the water clean and purified at all times. We got to admire the beauty of the marine life by looking at the tanks from up above with exclusive access to another level inside SEA LIFE. There is just something mesmorizing about how these sea creatures effortlessly glide in the water. Our tour guide Stacy did a fantasric job at sharing his knowledge with us during the tour.

So many of my Mom friends did not know that there was an aquarium so close to Charlotte. From Raleigh,NC it was aprox 2+ hours away. It is directly off of 85, so it’s easily accessible coming or going from the Queen City. Be sure to add SEA LIFE on your family fun itinerary during your next  visit! WATCH my video for an inside look at SEA LIFE and more from our fun-filled experience. Enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdjkCi4rrks&feature=youtu.be

•HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO SEA LIFE ?

Where to Dine in #Raleigh for @TriRestWeek Jan 21-27th 2019 | @Seasons52 @shopcrabtree

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Seasons 52 Dinner Menu Preview for Triangle Restaurant Week Jan 2019

Foodies get ready! Triangle Restaurant Week is starting Monday (Jan. 21-27) and we get to enjoy menu deals for lunch and dinner at some of our favorite restaurants. This is a good time to make your reservations at places you’ve always wanted to try. Or perhaps return to a restaurant you may have been to before but can now try something new and different from the menu. Since there are so many premier places to choose from, I thought I would help by giving you a preview of the special menu from one of my favorite restaurants, Seasons 52.

THE MENU

Known for their seasonally inspired menu and wine bar, Seasons 52 is all about bringing out the natural flavors of food. You can expect food that is fresh, beautifully prepared and full of flavor. They use rustic cooking techniques, like brick-oven roasting and open-fire grilling over oak and mesquite wood, to give their dishes a fresh grill taste. Triangle Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to experience a better way to eat from Seasons 52 at a great value. For $30 p/p, here is what is offered on their special dinner menu:

•First Course

Although my guest & I had dined at Seasons 52 before, our server Devonte was helpful and ready to answer any questions about the menu. The items being featured on the Triangle Restaurant Week menu are the same from the regular menu. We were happy to see our favorite Garlic Pesto Chicken flatbread as a choice to share in the first course. Their flatbread is the perfect first course as a shareable appetizer because it’s light, and there is great flavor in every bite. I could not believe it was only 460 calories!

GARLIC PESTO CHICKEN | mozzarella, balsamic cipollini onions, roasted red peppers, arugula

•Second Course

Salads may seem mundane to some but not here at Seasons 52! I ordered the Romaine and Baby Kale Caesar Salad which came with plenty of shaved parmesan and a light, creamy dressing. It was good but the star salad was the Seasonl Spinach Salad (Spinach and Caramelized Bosc Pear). The combination of pears,spinach, gorgonzola, toasted walnuts and a delightful sherry-walnut vinigrette dressing was amazing!

•Third Course

Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon -Crushed Potatoes, Caulilini, Dill-Mustard Sauce

For the third course I ordered the Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon and my guest went for the Wood-Grilled Filet Mignon. You couldn’t go wrong with either one. It just depends on whether you want surf or turf. The salmon was prepared and served on a cedar plank, which gave it a wonderful flavor that only cedar can bring out. The steak was mouth melting with a incredible sauce and mushrooms. It came with yukon mashed potatos and caulilini (not to be confused with brocollini)! It was my first time having that vegetable. It tastes like sweet cauliflower and looks like broccolini. I love discovering something new to enjoy. Thanks Seasons 52 for the introduction.

•Dessert

Whatever you do remember the following 4 words: SAVE👏 ROOM👏 FOR👏 DESSERT. Seasons 52 has iconic status when it comes to it’s Mini Indulgence Desserts. They are served in single serving shot glasses filled with all sorts of goodness. Carrot Cake, Key Lime Pie, just to name a few. No need to feel guilty because after 3-4 spoonfuls, it is gone but not forgotten! The perfect sweet ending to an amazing dinner at Seasons 52!

SobeSavvy Tip: Did you know Seasons 52 offers 52 wines by the glass? If you are a wine lover like me, take the opportunity to try some of the wine pairings on the Restaurant Week menu. I recommend the Harvest Sun Chardonnay with the garlic pesto chicken flatbread and the salmon.

Overall our dining experience was a great one! Not only did we enjoy our 3 course meal but left feeling good after eating healthy, full-flavored dishes from Seasons 52!

HAVE YOU DINED AT SEASONS 52 BEFORE? WILL YOU BE DINING OUT FOR TRIANGLE RESTAURANT WEEK?

Seasons 52 Raleigh

Crabtree Valley Mall

4325 Glenwood Ave

Raleigh, NC 27612