MetroBravo

FOOD & DRINK

RESTAURANT

Standing Ovation

18 Seaboard, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Vivace, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

The Angus Barn, Raleigh

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern, Raleigh

NEW RESTAURANT

Standing Ovation

Busy Bee Café, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Giorgio Restaurant and Bar, Cary

Honorable Mention

Sauced, Raleigh

ROMANTIC RESTAURANT

Standing Ovation

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Bloomsbury Bistro, Raleigh

Midtown Restaurant & Bar 115, Raleigh

RESTAURANT FOR TAKE-OUT

Standing Ovation

Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Outback Steakhouse, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Pei Wei, Cary and Raleigh

Pharaoh’s, Raleigh

RESTAURANT FOR POWER LUNCH

Standing Ovation

Winston’s Grille, Raleigh

MetroBravo

18 Seaboard, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Coquette, Raleigh

Glenwood Grill, Raleigh

RESTAURANT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS

Standing Ovation

The Angus Barn, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Second Empire Restaurant & Tavern, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

18 Seaboard, Raleigh

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern, Raleigh

PLACE TO TAKE THE KIDS

Standing Ovation

Chick-fil-A, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Moe’s, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Mellow Mushroom, Triangle-wide

Red Robin, Triangle-wide

PLACE TO GO WITH A CROWD

Standing Ovation

Kanki, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Pit, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Fat Daddy’s, Raleigh

Winston’s Grille, Raleigh

HEALTHY LUNCH

Standing Ovation

The Irregardless Café, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Sunflowers Café, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Neomonde Deli, Triangle-wide

Zoës Kitchen, Raleigh

SPECIALTY FOOD STORE

Standing Ovation

Whole Foods Market, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

A Southern Season, Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

The Fresh Market, Triangle-wide

Trader Joe’s, Triangle-wide

BREAKFAST

Standing Ovation

Brigs Restaurant, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

The Flying Biscuit Café, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant, Raleigh

Elmo’s Diner, Durham and Carrboro

COASTAL RESTAURANT

Standing Ovation

Dockside Restaurant & Marina, Wilmington

MetroBravo

Blue Moon Bistro, Beaufort

Honorable Mention

Jerry’s Food, Wine, & Spirits, Wilmington

Oceanic, Wilmington

OUTDOOR DINING

Standing Ovation

Vivace, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Mellow Mushroom, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Lilly’s Pizza, Raleigh

The Weathervane, Chapel Hill

DELI

Standing Ovation

Village Deli, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Jason’s Deli, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

McAlister’s, Triangle-wide

Tropical Smoothie Café, Raleigh

COFFEEHOUSE

Standing Ovation

Starbuck’s, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Third Place Coffeehouse, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Cup A Joe, Raleigh

Helios, Raleigh

SPORTS BAR

Standing Ovation

Carolina Ale House, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Fox and Hound Pub and Grille, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Champs, Durham and Raleigh

Tobacco Road Sports Café, Raleigh

PLACE WITH BEST COCKTAIL MENU

Standing Ovation

Bogart’s American Grill, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Vivace, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Raleigh

The Umstead Bar, Cary

CATERER

Standing Ovation

LadyFingers Caterers, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Catering Works, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Chef Mario’s Inc., Raleigh

Mitchell’s Catering, Raleigh

CHEF

Standing Ovation

Jason Smith, 18 Seaboard, Raleigh

MetroBravo

John Toler, Bloomsbury Bistro, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Ashley Christensen, Poole’s Diner, Raleigh

Walter Royal, The Angus Barn, Raleigh

WAIT STAFF

Standing Ovation

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Winston’s Grille, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Coquette, Raleigh

The Angus Barn, Raleigh

FRENCH CUISINE

Standing Ovation

Coquette, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Saint-Jacques French Cuisine, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Bonne Soirée, Chapel Hill

Provence, Carrboro

ITALIAN CUISINE

Standing Ovation

Vivace, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Casa Carbone Ristorante, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Café Tiramisu, Raleigh

Piccola Italia, Raleigh

MEXICAN CUISINE

Standing Ovation

Dos Taquitos Mexican Restaurant, Raleigh

MetroBravo

El Rodeo Mexican Restaurant, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Jibarra Modern Mexican Tequila Lounge, Raleigh

MEZ, Durham

CHINESE CUISINE

Standing Ovation

Red Dragon Chinese Restaurant, Raleigh

MetroBravo

PF Chang’s China Bistro, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Neo-China Restaurant, Triangle-wide

SUSHI

Standing Ovation

Mura Japanese Restaurant, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Waraji Japanese Restaurant, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Sushi Blues Café, Raleigh

Sushi-Thai, Cary and Raleigh

APPETIZERS

Standing Ovation

The Red Room Tapas Lounge, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Raleigh Times, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Humble Pie, Raleigh

Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Raleigh

BARBECUE/RIBS

Standing Ovation

The Pit, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Allen & Son, Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

Cooper’s BBQ & Catering, Raleigh

Danny’s Bar-B-Que, Triangle-wide

HOT DOG

Standing Ovation

Snoopy’s Hot Dogs, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Roast Grill, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Pharaoh’s, Raleigh

Char-Grill, Cary and Raleigh

HAMBURGER

Standing Ovation

Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries,

Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Char-Grill, Cary and Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Mojoe’s Burger Joint, Raleigh

Red Robin, Triangle-wide

FRENCH FRIES

Standing Ovation

Five Guys Famous Burgers and Fries,

Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Char-Grill, Cary and Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Snoopy’s Hot Dogs, Raleigh

McDonald’s, Triangle-wide

WINGS

Standing Ovation

Buffalo Wild Wings, Knightdale and Garner

MetroBravo

Hooters, Morrisville and Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Crowley’s, Raleigh

High Park Bar and Grill, Raleigh

PIZZA

Standing Ovation

Mellow Mushroom, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Lilly’s Pizza, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Capital Creations Gourmet Pizza, Raleigh

Piccolo Italia, Raleigh

STEAKS

Standing Ovation

The Angus Barn, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, Cary

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern, Raleigh

SEAFOOD

Standing Ovation

42nd Street Oyster Bar, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Squid’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

18 Seaboard, Raleigh

Shuckers Oyster Bar & Grill, Wake Forest

OYSTERS

Standing Ovation

42nd Street Oyster Bar, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Squid’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

Shuckers Oyster Bar & Grill, Wake Forest

Tony’s Bourbon Street Oyster Bar, Cary

DESSERT

Standing Ovation

Hayes-Barton Dessertery & Café, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Cheesecake Factory, Durham and Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hereghty Heavenly Delicious, Raleigh

Francesca’s Dessert Café, Durham

BRUNCH

Standing Ovation

Coquette, Raleigh

MetroBravo

NOFO Café, Raleigh and Wilmington

Honorable Mention

Poole’s Diner, Raleigh

Winston’s Grille, Raleigh

SMOOTHIES

Standing Ovation

Tropical Smoothie Café, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Keva Juice, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Planet Smoothie, Triangle-wide

Smoothie King, Triangle-wide

EGGS BENEDICT

Standing Ovation

Brigs Restaurant, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

NOFO Café, Raleigh and Wilmington

Honorable Mention

Coquette, Raleigh

Winston’s Grille, Raleigh

FRIED CHICKEN

Standing Ovation

Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ’n Biscuits, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Kentucky Fried Chicken, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Mama Dip’s Kitchen, Chapel Hill

Smithfield Chicken ‘N Bar-B-Q, Triangle-wide

MARGARITA

Standing Ovation

Dos Taquitos Mexican Restaurant, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Mellow Mushroom, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Cantina 18, Raleigh

Chili’s, Triangle-wide

MARTINI

Standing Ovation

Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Bogart’s American Grill, Raleigh

The Umstead Bar, Cary

BLOODY MARY

Standing Ovation

NOFO Café, Raleigh and Wilmington

MetroBravo

Herons at The Umstead, Cary

Honorable Mention

Coquette, Raleigh

The Raleigh Times Bar, Raleigh

COSMOPOLITAN

Standing Ovation

Bogart’s American Grill, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Herons at The Umstead, Cary

Honorable Mention

Vinnie’s Steakhouse & Tavern, Raleigh

Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Raleigh

BEER

Standing Ovation

Flying Saucer Draught Emporium, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Carolina Ale House, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Carolina Brewery, Chapel Hill and Pittsboro

Village Draft House, Raleigh

WINE

Standing Ovation

Studio 91, Chapel Hill

MetroBravo

The Angus Barn, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Sullivan’s Steakhouse, Raleigh

Savoy, Raleigh

NC VINEYARD/WINERY

Standing Ovation

Biltmore Estate, Asheville

MetroBravo

Childress Vineyards, Lexington

Honorable Mention

Duplin Winery, Rose Hill

Chatham Hill Winery, Cary/Morrisville

FAVORITE BRAND OF…

BOTTLED WATER

Standing Ovation

Deer Park

MetroBravo

Fiji

Honorable Mention

Aquafina

Dasani

BEER

Standing Ovation

Miller Lite

MetroBravo

Blue Moon

Honorable Mention

Guiness

Heineken

VODKA

Standing Ovation

Grey Goose

MetroBravo

Ketel One

Honorable Mention

Absolut

SKYY

BOURBON/WHISKEY

Standing Ovation

Maker’s Mark

MetroBravo

Jack Daniel’s

Honorable Mention

Crown Royal

Jim Beam

GIN

Standing Ovation

Tanqueray

MetroBravo

Bombay Sapphire

Honorable Mention

Hendrick’s

Beefeater

SCOTCH

Standing Ovation

Dewar’s

MetroBravo

The Macallan

Honorable Mention

Chivas Regal

The Famous Grouse

RUM

Standing Ovation

Captain Morgan

MetroBravo

Bacardi

Honorable Mention

Meyer’s

Mount Gay

FASHION/WHERE TO SHOP

MALL

Standing Ovation

Crabtree Valley Mall, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Streets at Southpoint, Durham

Honorable Mention

Cary Towne Center, Cary

Triangle Town Center, Raleigh

SHOPPING CENTER

Standing Ovation

The Commons at North Hills, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Cameron Village, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Brier Creek Commons, Raleigh

Crossroads Plaza, Cary

DEPARTMENT STORE

Standing Ovation

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Macy’s, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Nordstrom, Durham

Saks Fifth Avenue, Raleigh

GIFT STORE

Standing Ovation

Charlotte’s, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Quintessentials, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Jesters, Chapel Hill

NOFO Café, Raleigh and Wilmington

MEN’S CLOTHING STORE

Standing Ovation

Varsity Men’s Wear, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Nowell’s Clothing, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Liles Clothing Studio, Raleigh

MEN’S SUITS

Standing Ovation

Brooks Brothers, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Nowell’s Clothing, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Varsity Men’s Wear, Raleigh

TIES

Standing Ovation

Nowell’s Clothing, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Varsity Men’s Wear, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Brooks Brothers, Raleigh

Liles Clothing Studio, Raleigh

MEN’S SHOES

Standing Ovation

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Nordstrom, Durham

Honorable Mention

Johnston & Murphy, Raleigh

SRI Shoe Warehouse, Raleigh

WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE

Standing Ovation

Scout & Molly’s, Raleigh and Chapel Hill

MetroBravo

Vermillion, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Gena Chandler, Raleigh

Tyler House, Raleigh

EVENING/COCKTAIL WEAR

Standing Ovation

Vermillion, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Cameron Clothing Co., Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Fleur Boutique, Raleigh and Chapel Hill

Saks Fifth Avenue, Raleigh

FUR COAT

Standing Ovation

Hertzberg Furs, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Serotta’s, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Saks Fifth Avenue, Raleigh

WEDDING DRESS

Standing Ovation

Traditions by Anna, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Enchanting Moments, Fuquay-Varina

Honorable Mention

Alexia’s Bridal Boutique, Cary

David’s Bridal, Raleigh and Durham

WOMEN’S CASUAL CLOTHING

Standing Ovation

Scout & Molly’s, Raleigh and Chapel Hill

MetroBravo

Uniquities/Uniquities Mix, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Vermillion, Raleigh

Gena Chandler, Raleigh

DESIGNER JEANS

Standing Ovation

Uniquities/Uniquities Mix, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Gena Chandler, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Scout & Molly’s, Raleigh and Chapel Hill

WOMEN’S SHOES

Standing Ovation

Monkee’s, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Main & Taylor, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Nordstrom, Durham

Walk, Raleigh

HANDBAG

Standing Ovation

Saks Fifth Avenue, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Coach, Durham and Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Vermillion, Raleigh

LINGERIE

Standing Ovation

Victoria’s Secret, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

J. Alane’s Fine Lingerie, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Saks Fifth Avenue, Raleigh

MATERNITY CLOTHING

Standing Ovation

Love in Bloom, Raleigh

MetroBravo

A Pea in a Pod, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Motherhood, Triangle-wide

BATHING SUIT

Standing Ovation

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

J.Crew, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Everything But Water, Raleigh and Durham

Land’s End at Sears, Triangle-wide

KID’S CLOTHING

Standing Ovation

Beanie + Cecil Baby, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Lamb’s Ear, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Shutterbugs Boutique, Raleigh

Target, Triangle-wide

TWEEN’S CLOTHING

Standing Ovation

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Gap, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Justice, Triangle-wide

Nordstrom, Durham

OUTDOOR CLOTHING

Standing Ovation

Great Outdoor Provision Co., Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

REI, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Dick’s Sporting Goods, Triangle-wide

Orvis, Raleigh

CONSIGNMENT SHOP

Standing Ovation

Revolver Consignment Boutique, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Babiology, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Champagne Taste, Raleigh

Villa Consegna, Raleigh

MAKE-UP SELECTION

Standing Ovation

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Sephora, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Luxe Apothecary, Raleigh

Ulta, Triangle-wide

DESIGNER JEWELRY

Standing Ovation

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry, Raleigh and Rocky Mount

MetroBravo

Elaine Miller Collection, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Charlotte’s, Raleigh

Kerry Catherine Jewelry, Raleigh

ESTATE JEWELRY

Standing Ovation

Elaine Miller Collection, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Joint Venture Estate Jewelers, Cary and Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry, Raleigh and Rocky Mount

Jolly’s Jewelers, Raleigh

WEDDING RINGS

Standing Ovation

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry, Raleigh and Rocky Mount

MetroBravo

Jolly’s Jewelers, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

CMI, Raleigh

Reliable Loan & Jewelry, Raleigh

PEARLS

Standing Ovation

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry, Raleigh and Rocky Mount

MetroBravo

Jolly’s Jewelers, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Elaine Miller Collection, Raleigh

Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh, Raleigh

WATCHES

Standing Ovation

Bailey’s Fine Jewelry, Raleigh and Rocky Mount

MetroBravo

Jolly’s Jewelers, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Johnson’s Jewelers of Raleigh, Raleigh

Ross-Simons, Raleigh and Durham

SUNGLASSES

Standing Ovation

Sunglass Hut, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

The Spectacle, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Macy’s, Triangle-wide

Saks Fifth Avenue, Raleigh

PERFUME

Standing Ovation

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Sephora, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Nordstrom, Durham

Saks Fifth Avenue, Raleigh

BEST PLACE TO BUY…

CLOTHES FOR YOUR DAUGHTER

Standing Ovation

Gena Chandler, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Scout & Molly’s, Raleigh and Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Justice, Triangle-wide

CLOTHES FOR YOUR MOTHER

Standing Ovation

Cameron Clothing Co., Raleigh

MetroBravo

Tyler House, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Talbots, Triangle-wide

RETAIL

DRY CLEANER

Standing Ovation

Brothers Cleaners, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Medlin-Davis, Cary and Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hilker’s Cleaners, Raleigh

Pope’s Dry Cleaners, Raleigh

TAILOR

Standing Ovation

Lee’s Tailor Shop, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Executive Alterations, Durham

Honorable Mention

Luyen Tailor Shop, Raleigh

Shanghai Tailors, Raleigh

DRUG STORE

Standing Ovation

CVS, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Kerr Drug, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Rite Aid, Triangle-wide

Walgreens, Triangle-wide

PET BOUTIQUE

Standing Ovation

La Di Dogs Inc., Raleigh

MetroBravo

Wag Pet Boutique, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Gourmutt’s Bakery, Triangle-wide

Phydeaux, Carrboro

BOOK STORE

Standing Ovation

Quail Ridge Books, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Barnes & Noble, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Borders, Triangle-wide

WINE RETAILER

Standing Ovation

Total Wine & More, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

The Wine Merchant, Raleigh and Cary

Honorable Mention

A Southern Season, Chapel Hill

Seaboard Wine Warehouse, Raleigh

WEDDING CAKES

Standing Ovation

Edible Art, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Blue Moon Bakery & Café, Cary

Honorable Mention

Sugarland, Chapel Hill

Sweet Memories, Apex

WEDDING REGISTRY

Standing Ovation

Quintessentials, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Bed Bath & Beyond, Cary

Williams-Sonoma, Raleigh and Durham

LINENS

Standing Ovation

Lavender and Lace, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Bed Bath & Beyond, Cary

Honorable Mention

Hudson Belk, Triangle-wide

Macy’s, Raleigh

GOLF EQUIPMENT

Standing Ovation

Falls of the Neuse Golf, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Golfsmith, Raleigh and Wake Forest

Honorable Mention

Dick’s Sporting Goods, Triangle-wide

Golf Galaxy, Cary and Durham

PICTURE FRAMING

Standing Ovation

Frameworks, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Flink’s, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Jerry’s Arterama, Raleigh

Michael’s, Triangle-wide

PIANO

Standing Ovation

Ruggero Piano, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Hopper Piano & Organ Co., Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Maus Piano & Organ Co., Raleigh

Piano & Organ Distributors, Durham

STATIONERY

Standing Ovation

Frances T. King Stationery, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Taylor’s of Raleigh, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Salutations Fine Stationery and Gifts, Chapel Hill

Purple Puddle Flowers and Gifts, Chapel Hill

CHILDREN’S TOYS

Standing Ovation

The Learning Express, Cary and Raleigh

MetroBravo

Target

Honorable Mention

Toys R Us, Cary and Durham

BOAT

Standing Ovation

Chatlee Boat & Marine, Sanford

MetroBravo

West Marine, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Marine Max, Wilmington

Morehead Marine, Morehead City

BICYCLES

Standing Ovation

REI, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Flythe Cyclery, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

The Bicycle Chain, Triangle-wide

SHOE/HANDBAG REPAIR

Standing Ovation

H&H Shoe Repair, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Man Mur Shoe Shop, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hakky Shoe Repair, Raleigh

North Hills Shoe & Luggage Repair, Raleigh

HOMELIFE

FLORIST

Standing Ovation

Kelly Odom Flowers, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Fallon’s Creative Flowers, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Carlton’s Flowers, Raleigh

Watkins Flowers of Distinction, Raleigh

GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY

Standing Ovation

Logan’s Trading Company, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden Center, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Garden Supply Company, Cary

Homewood Nursery & Garden Center, Raleigh

HOME MEDIA SYSTEM

Standing Ovation

Audio Advice, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Best Buy, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Bose, Durham

Neuwave Systems, Raleigh

PLACE TO OWN A SECOND HOME

Standing Ovation

Wrightsville Beach, NC

MetroBravo

Atlantic Beach, NC

Honorable Mention

Blowing Rock, NC

Lake Gaston, NC

COASTAL DEVELOPMENT

Standing Ovation

Figure Eight Island, NC

MetroBravo

Landfall, Wilmington

Honorable Mention

Bald Head Island, NC

Beacon’s Reach, Salter Path

CONTEMPORARY FURNITURE

Standing Ovation

Nowell’s Contemporary and Scandinavian Furniture, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Ambiente Furniture, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

ECKO International, Triangle-wide

Rodolfo Gonzales, Raleigh

TRADITIONAL FURNITURE

Standing Ovation

Ethan Allen, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Green Front Furniture, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Wayside Furniture House, Raleigh

Whitley Furniture Galleries, Zebulon

BEACH HOUSE FURNITURE

Standing Ovation

Wicker Gallery, Raleigh

MetroBravo

McQueen’s Interiors, Morehead City

Honorable Mention

ECKO International, Triangle-wide

Shore Décor Furniture, Morehead City

BEDS

Standing Ovation

Fred’s Bed’s, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Ethan Allen, Raleigh and Cary

Honorable Mention

Green Front Furniture, Raleigh

Havertys, Raleigh and Durham

KITCHEN APPLIANCES

Standing Ovation

Kitchen & Bath Galleries, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Ferguson Enterprises, Raleigh and Carrboro

Honorable Mention

Jeffreys Appliance Center, Raleigh

Sears, Triangle-wide

LAMPS

Standing Ovation

Thompson-Lynch Co., Raleigh

MetroBravo

Peacock Alley, Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

The Shade Tree, Raleigh

Pottery Barn, Raleigh and Durham

ANTIQUES

Standing Ovation

Acquisitions Ltd., Raleigh

MetroBravo

Hunt & Gather, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Peacock Alley, Chapel Hill

Whitehall at the Villa Antiques, Chapel Hill

ART GALLERY

Standing Ovation

ArtSource Fine Art Gallery and Framing, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Mahler Fine Art, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Flanders Art Gallery, Raleigh

Somerhill Gallery, Durham

CARPET

Standing Ovation

Eatmans Carpets & Interiors, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Bell’s Carpet, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Brentwood Carpets & Flooring, Cary and Raleigh

Capel Rug Outlet, Raleigh

ORIENTAL RUG

Standing Ovation

Capel Rug Outlet, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Green Front Interiors & Rugs, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Fargo-Hanna Oriental Rugs of Raleigh, Raleigh

Persian Carpet Inc., Durham

HOME SECURITY SYSTEM

Standing Ovation

CPI

MetroBravo

Audio Advice

Honorable Mention

ADT

Brinks

HEALTH CARE/

WELLNESS/BEAUTY

HOSPITAL

Standing Ovation

Rex Hospital, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Duke University Medical Center, Durham

Honorable Mention

WakeMed Health & Hospitals, Raleigh

Univ. of North Carolina Hospitals, Chapel Hill

EMERGENCY ROOM

Standing Ovation

WakeMed Health & Hospitals, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Rex Hospital, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Duke University Medical Center, Durham

University of North Carolina Hospitals,

Chapel Hill

BIRTHING CENTER

Standing Ovation

Rex Hospital, Raleigh

MetroBravo

WakeMed Health & Hospitals, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Duke University Medical Center, Durham

University of North Carolina Hospitals,

Chapel Hill

CARDIAC CENTER

Standing Ovation

WakeMed Health & Hospitals, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Duke University Medical Center, Durham

Honorable Mention

Rex Hospital, Raleigh

University of North Carolina Hospitals,

Chapel Hill

CANCER CARE CENTER

Standing Ovation

Duke University Medical Center, Durham

MetroBravo

University of North Carolina Hospitals,

Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

Rex Hospital, Raleigh

WakeMed Health & Hospitals, Raleigh

EYECARE CENTER

Standing Ovation

Eye Care Associates, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Duke Eye Center, Durham

Honorable Mention

Kelly Eye Center, Raleigh

LensCrafters, Triangle-wide

PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER

Standing Ovation

Duke Plastic Surgery, Durham

MetroBravo

Raleigh Plastic Surgery Center, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Dr. Glenn Davis, Davis Plastic Surgery, Raleigh

Dr. William Lambeth, Lambeth Plastic Surgery, Raleigh

VEIN CENTER

Standing Ovation

Vein Clinics of America, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Raleigh Vein & Laser Center, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Duke Vein Center, Durham

UNC Vein Clinic, Chapel Hill

VETERINARIAN

Standing Ovation

Care First Animal Hospital, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Bowman Animal Hospital, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Hayes Barton Animal Hospital, Raleigh

Quail Corners Animal Hospital, Raleigh

FACIAL

Standing Ovation

Skin Sense: A Day Spa, Raleigh and Cary

MetroBravo

Blue Water Spa, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Synergy Spa, Raleigh

The Umstead Hotel & Spa, Cary

PLACE FOR MANICURE/PEDICURE

Standing Ovation

Synergy Spa, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Umstead Hotel & Spa, Cary

Honorable Mention

Lee Spa Nails, Triangle-wide

Skin Sense: A Day Spa, Raleigh and Cary

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Standing Ovation

Sports & More Physical Therapy, Cary

MetroBravo

Triangle Orthopaedic Associates, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Duke University Physical Therapy, Durham

Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic, Raleigh and Cary

ACUPUNCTURIST

Standing Ovation

Dr. Lei Zheng; Eastern Traditions, Raleigh

MetroBravo

C. Daerr Reid, LAc. MSOM; East Coast Acupuncture, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Jill Doan, LAc.; To the Point Acupuncture, Cary

Duke Integrative Medicine, Acupuncture, Durham

ASSISTED LIVING CENTER

Standing Ovation

Magnolia Glen, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Cypress of Raleigh, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Carolina Meadows, Chapel Hill

Heritage of Raleigh, Raleigh

HEALTH CLUB

Standing Ovation

O2 Fitness, Raleigh and Cary

MetroBravo

Gold’s Gym, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Planet Fitness, Raleigh

YMCA, Triangle-wide

SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

Standing Ovation

Bodylase Skin Spa, Cary

MetroBravo

Luxe Apothecary, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Skin Sense: A Day Spa, Raleigh and Cary

Synergy Spa, Raleigh

WELLNESS CENTER

Standing Ovation

Rex Wellness Center, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Duke Center for Living, Durham

Honorable Mention

The Center Natural Health Specialists, Raleigh

UNC Wellness Center at Meadowmont, Chapel Hill

DAY SPA

Standing Ovation

Skin Sense: A Day Spa, Triangle-wide

Synergy Spa, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Spa by Mitchell’s, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

The Umstead Spa, Cary

Douglas Carroll Salon Spa, Triangle-wide

HAIR SALON

Standing Ovation

Mina’s Studio, Chapel Hill

MetroBravo

Salon Blu, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Douglas Carroll Salon, Raleigh

Glam Lounge, Raleigh

YOGA STUDIO

Standing Ovation

Moving Mantra Yoga Studio, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Gateway Yoga, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Franklin Street Yoga, Chapel Hill

Open Door Yoga, Raleigh

SALON FOR SPRAY TAN

Standing Ovation

Physios Salon, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Toast Airbrush Arts, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Planet Beach, Triangle-wide

Skin Sense: A Day Spa, Raleigh and Cary

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Standing Ovation

Prudential York Simpson Underwood,

Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Allen Tate, Triangle-wide

Fonville Morisey, Triangle-wide

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Standing Ovation

York Properties, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Kane Realty, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Carolantic Realty, Triangle-wide

Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston, Triangle-wide

COASTAL REAL ESTATE COMPANY

Standing Ovation

Intracoastal Realty Corporation, Wrightsville Beach and surrounding area

MetroBravo

Prudential Carolinas, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Cannon & Gruber Realtors, Atlantic Beach

Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Realty, Wilmington

BANK

Standing Ovation

BB&T, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

State Employees’ Credit Union, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Bank of America, Triangle-wide

First Citizens, Triangle-wide

BANK FOR A LOAN

Standing Ovation

State Employees’ Credit Union, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

BB&T, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

First Citizens, Triangle-wide

Wachovia, Triangle-wide

INSURANCE COMPANY

Standing Ovation

State Farm Insurance, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Farm Bureau, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Allstate, Triangle-wide

Nationwide, Triangle-wide

ACCOUNTING FIRM

Standing Ovation

Cherry Bekaert & Holland, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Batchelor Tillery & Roberts LLP, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Koonce Wooten & Haywood LLP, Raleigh

Maddison, Caison & Ogburn LLP, Raleigh

LAW FIRM FOR

GENERAL

Standing Ovation

Manning Fulton & Skinner PA, Raleigh and Wilmington

MetroBravo

Poyner & Spruill LLP, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Ragsdale Liggett, Raleigh

McMillan Smith & Plyler, Raleigh

REAL ESTATE

Standing Ovation

Manning Fulton & Skinner PA, Raleigh and Wilmington

MetroBravo

Ragsdale Liggett, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Kilpatrick Stockton LLP, Raleigh

DIVORCE

Standing Ovation

Tharrington Smith LLP, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Wyrick Robbins, Yates & Ponton LLP, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Nicholls & Crampton PA, Raleigh

CORPORATE

Standing Ovation

Poyner & Spruill LLP, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Wyrick Robbins, Yates & Ponton LLP, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Manning Fulton & Skinner PA, Raleigh and Wilmington

Williams Mullen PA, Raleigh and Wilmingon

CRIMINAL

Standing Ovation

McMillan Smith & Plyler, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Tharrington Smith LLP, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Cheshire Parker Schneider Bryan & Vitale, Raleigh

TAXES

Standing Ovation

Poyner & Spruill LLP, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Bailey & Dixon LLP, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Wyrick Robbins, Yates & Ponton LLP, Raleigh

RESORT/TRAVEL/HOTEL

AIRLINE

Standing Ovation

Southwest Airlines

MetroBravo

American Airlines

Honorable Mention

Delta Airlines

US Airways

CAR RENTAL FIRM

Standing Ovation

Hertz Rent-A-Car, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Avis Rent-A-Car, Triangle-wide

National Car Rental, Triangle-wide

CITY HOTEL

Standing Ovation

The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Cary

MetroBravo

Raleigh Marriott City Center, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

The Franklin Hotel, Chapel Hill

The Renaissance at North Hills, Raleigh

COASTAL HOTEL

Standing Ovation

Blockade Runner Beach Resort, Wrightsville Beach

Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort Beach, Wrightsville Beach

MetroBravo

The Sanderling Resort & Spa, Duck

Honorable Mention

Sheraton Atlantic Beach Oceanfront Hotel, Atlantic Beach

HOTEL FOR OUT OF TOWN GUESTS

Standing Ovation

The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Cary

MetroBravo

The Renaissance at North Hills, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

The Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill

Raleigh Marriott City Center, Raleigh

HOTEL FOR MEETINGS/CONVENTIONS

Standing Ovation

The Umstead Hotel and Spa, Cary

MetroBravo

The Renaissance at North Hills, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Raleigh Marriott City Center, Raleigh

Sheraton Imperial Hotel and Convention Center, Durham

NC BEACH RESORT

Standing Ovation

The Sanderling Resort & Spa, Duck

MetroBravo

Bald Head Island

Honorable Mention

Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort Beach,

Wrightsville Beach

Shell Island Resort, Wrightsville Beach

NC MOUNTAIN RESORT

Standing Ovation

The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa, Asheville

MetroBravo

Chetola Resort at Blowing Rock, Blowing Rock

Honorable Mention

Blowing Rock, NC

Linville, NC

GOLF RESORT

Standing Ovation

Pinehurst Resort, Pinehurst

MetroBravo

Sea Trail Golf Resort, Sunset Beach

Honorable Mention

Grandover Resort, Greensboro

Rumbling Bald Resort, Lake Lure

EDUCATION

DAYCARE CENTER

Standing Ovation

Primrose Schools, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Bright Horizons, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

The Goddard School, Triangle-wide

PRIVATE LOWER SCHOOL

Standing Ovation

Ravenscroft School, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Saint David’s School, Raleigh

Trinity Academy of Raleigh, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Cary Academy, Cary

PRIVATE HIGH SCHOOL

Standing Ovation

Ravenscroft School, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Saint Mary’s School, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Cardinal Gibbons High School, Raleigh

Cary Academy, Cary

PRIVATE COLLEGE

Standing Ovation

Duke University, Durham

MetroBravo

Meredith College, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Peace College, Raleigh

Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem

PUBLIC COLLEGE

Standing Ovation

North Carolina State University, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

East Carolina University, Greenville

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Wilmington

PARTY SCHOOL

Standing Ovation

East Carolina University, Greenville

MetroBravo

North Carolina State University, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Wilmington

PEOPLE AND PLACES

REGIONAL TV PERSONALITY

Standing Ovation

David Crabtree, WRAL-TV5

MetroBravo

Bill Leslie, WRAL- TV5

Honorable Mention

Greg Fishel, WRAL-TV5

Larry Stogner, ABC 11

NATIONAL TV PERSONALITY

Standing Ovation

Diane Sawyer, “ABC World News”

MetroBravo

Oprah Winfrey

Honorable Mention

Brian Williams, “NBC Nightly News”

Katie Couric, “CBS Evening News”

RADIO PERSONALITY

Standing Ovation

Bob Dumas, WDCG-FM

MetroBravo

Rush Limbaugh

Honorable Mention

Bill Jordan, WRAL-FM

Lynda Loveland, WRAL-FM

WEATHER PERSONALITY

Standing Ovation

Greg Fishel, WRAL-TV5

MetroBravo

Elizabeth Gardner, WRAL-TV5

Honorable Mention

Bill Reh, NBC 17

Mike Maze, WRAL-TV5

TRAFFIC PERSONALITY

Standing Ovation

Brian Shrader, WRAL-TV5

MetroBravo

Amber Rupinta, ABC 11

Honorable Mention

Vanna Fox, WRAL-FM

COLLEGE COACH

Standing Ovation

Roy Williams, UNC Men’s Basketball

MetroBravo

Mike Krzyzewski, Duke University Men’s Basketball

Honorable Mention

Sindey Lowe, NCSU Men’s Basketball

Tom O’Brien, NCSU Men’s Football

LOCAL AUTHOR

Standing Ovation

Nicholas Sparks

MetroBravo

David Sedaris

Honorable Mention

Lee Smith

Margaret Maron

LOCAL ARTIST

Standing Ovation

Kyle Highsmith

MetroBravo

Jason Craighead

Honorable Mention

Bob Rankin

Eric McRay

LOCAL POLITICIAN

Standing Ovation

Charles Meeker

MetroBravo

Beverly Perdue

Honorable Mention

David Price

Tom Fetzer

FAVORITE SPORTS TEAM

Standing Ovation

Carolina Hurricanes

MetroBravo

Carolina Tar Heels

Honorable Mention

Duke Blue Devils

NCSU Wolfpack

PUBLIC MUSEUM

Standing Ovation

NC Musuem of Art, Raleigh

MetroBravo

NC Museum of Natural Sciences, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

NC Museum of Life and Sciences, Durham

HISTORIC SITE

Standing Ovation

NC Capitol Building, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Biltmore Estate, Asheville

Honorable Mention

Bentonville Battlefield, Bentonville

Joel Lane Museum House, Raleigh

CHARITY EVENT

Standing Ovation

Junior League of Raleigh, A Shopping SPREE!

MetroBravo

Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic

Honorable Mention

North State Bank’s Summer Salute for Hospice

of Wake County

Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure

CULTURAL EVENT

Standing Ovation

A Christmas Carol, Theatre In The Park, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Artsplosure, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

NC Museum of Art, Raleigh

The International Festival of Raleigh, Raleigh

DANCE CLUB

Standing Ovation

The Longbranch Entertainment Complex, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Loafers Beach Club, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Bogart’s American Grill, Raleigh

Solas, Raleigh

DANCE STUDIO

Standing Ovation

CC & Co. Dance Complex, Raleigh

MetroBravo

North Carolina Dance Institute, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Ninth Street Dance, Durham

The Raleigh School of Ballet, Raleigh

CLUB TO HEAR LIVE MUSIC

Standing Ovation

Lincoln Theatre, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Pour House, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Cat’s Cradle, Chapel Hill

The Big Easy, Raleigh

GOLF COURSE

Standing Ovation

Lonnie Poole Golf Course, Raleigh

MetroBravo

UNC Finley Golf Course, Chapel Hill

Honorable Mention

Old Chatham Golf Club, Durham

Pinehurst No. 2, Pinehurst

MOVIE THEATER

Standing Ovation

Rialto Theater, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Regal North Hills Stadium 14, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

IMAX at Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh

Regal Raleigh Grande Stadium 16, Raleigh

PLACE TO HEAR JAZZ

Standing Ovation

Amra’s, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Irregardless Café, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Bogart’s American Grill, Raleigh

The Big Easy, Raleigh

PLACE TO HEAR ROCK

Standing Ovation

Lincoln Theatre, Raleigh

MetroBravo

The Pour House, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Cat’s Cradle, Chapel Hill

Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek, Raleigh

SPORTING EVENT

Standing Ovation

Durham Bulls Baseball, Durham

MetroBravo

Carolina Hurricanes Hockey, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Atlantic Coast Conference Basketball

Atlantic Coast Conference Football

LOCAL BAND

Standing Ovation

The Dune Dogs

MetroBravo

Old Habits

Honorable Mention

Chatham County Line

The Proclivities

LOCAL MUSICIAN

Standing Ovation

Jeanne Jolly

MetroBravo

Chris Boerner

Honorable Mention

Bill Leslie

Tift Merritt

NEW WATERING HOLE

Standing Ovation

Natty Greene’s, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Cantina 18, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Buku, Raleigh

THEATER BUILDING

Standing Ovation

Durham Performing Arts Center, Durham

MetroBravo

Progress Energy Center for the Performing

Arts, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Carolina Theatre, Durham

Thalian Hall, Wilmington

COMMERCIAL BUILDING

Standing Ovation

CAPTRUST Tower, Raleigh

MetroBravo

RBC Center, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

American Tobacco Campus, Durham

Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh

CAMPUS BUILDING

Standing Ovation

Duke Chapel, Duke University, Durham

MetroBravo

NCSU Bell Tower, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

The Friday Center, UNC, Chapel Hill

UNC Wilson Library, Chapel Hill

CORPORATE BUILDING

Standing Ovation

SAS Campus, Cary

MetroBravo

Quintiles, Durham

Honorable Mention

RBC Plaza, Raleigh

OUTDOOR CONCERT VENUE

Standing Ovation

Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion at Walnut Creek, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Koka Booth Amphitheatre at Regency Park, Cary

Honorable Mention

NC Museum of Art, Raleigh

LOCAL SKYSCRAPER

Standing Ovation

RBC Plaza, Raleigh

MetroBravo

CAPTRUST Tower, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

University Tower – “The Blue Pickle,” Durham

TECH LIFE

INTERNET SERVICE PROVIDER

Standing Ovation

Time Warner Cable/Road Runner, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

AT&T, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Earthlink, Triangle-wide

CELL PHONE SERVICE

Standing Ovation

Verizon, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

AT&T, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Sprint, Triangle-wide

Do You Twitter?

30% – Yes; 70% – No

Are You On Facebook?

65% – Yes; 35% – No

AUTOMOTIVE

CAR DEALERSHIP

Standing Ovation

Johnson Lexus, Raleigh and Durham

MetroBravo

Fred Anderson Toyota, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Capital Ford, Raleigh

Sir Walter Raleigh Chevrolet, Raleigh

SPORTS UTILITY VEHICLE

Standing Ovation

Lexus RX

MetroBravo

Chevrolet Tahoe

Honorable Mention

Acura

Jeep Cherokee

SPORTS CAR

Standing Ovation

Porsche 911

MetroBravo

BMW Z

Honorable Mention

Audi R-8

BMW Mini Cooper

SEDAN

Standing Ovation

Mercedes

MetroBravo

BMW

Honorable Mention

Honda Accord

Lexus

LUXURY CAR

Standing Ovation

Lexus

MetroBravo

Mercedes

Honorable Mention

Audi

BMW

HYBRID CAR

Standing Ovation

Toyota Prius

MetroBravo

Lexus 400

Honorable Mention

Ford Escape

DEALERSHIP FOR SERVICE

Standing Ovation

Johnson Lexus, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Leith Honda, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Fred Anderson Toyota, Raleigh

Thompson Cadillac, Raleigh

SERVICE STATION

Standing Ovation

Glenwood Village Exxon, Raleigh

MetroBravo

Exxon at North Hills, Raleigh

Honorable Mention

Mission Valley 66, Raleigh

White-Wall Auto Repair, Raleigh

CARWASH

Standing Ovation

Bunkey’s, Triangle-wide

MetroBravo

Auto Bell, Triangle-wide

Honorable Mention

Sudz, Raleigh

NEW RESTAURANT

BUSY BEE CAFÉ

225 S. Wilmington St.

Raleigh, NC 27601

www.busybeeraleigh.com

Whether you’re looking for a warm cup of coffee just before work, in the mood to enjoy a trendy yet affordable lunch menu — or just want to relax outside on a roof-top patio, check out Busy Bee Café on Wil­ming­ton Street. Opened just over a year, Busy Bee offers a variety of menu items in different atmospheres, including a downstairs dining room, mezzanine or upstairs bar and patio — better known as The Hive. Famous for their beer selection, they urge you to try a new bottle or drafted beer tapped over the weekend: “They put the BEE in beer.”

GIORGIO

4300 NW Cary Parkway

Cary, NC 27513

www.ghgrestaurants.com/giorgio/index.html

Specializing in “New Mediterranean” cooking, Giorgio Restaurant in Cary offers cuisine reflecting the fresh and healthy style of the Mediterranean Sea. Sourcing most of their food from local farmers, the menu is changed based on the seasonality of ingredients, categorizing Giorgio as a true “farm to fork” restaurant. Seafood is the focal point, and they cook “A la Plancha,” a Spanish cooking method using a hot metal griddle. Enjoy nightly drink specials, live music on the weekends and a recently added tapas menu available in the bar. Private and semi-private lounge available.

SAUCED

410 Glenwood Ave. #350

Raleigh, NC 27603

www.saucedpizza.com

If you find yourself in the mood for pizza after 12 a.m., check out Sauced Pizza for a New York-style slice. Open for lunch and dinner — and well on into the night — Sauced offers New York-style pizza, calzones and appetizers with a full bar in a casual atmosphere. Sure to please any customer, enjoy a slice of their pizza or a slice of their featured dessert selections from the local Hayes Barton Café & Dessertery. One of the most recent additions to Glenwood South, Sauced also offers daily specials on slices and drinks. Details available on their website.

BEST PLACE FOR HEALTHY LUNCH

The Irregardless Café

The Irregardless Café is the place to go when a healthy lunch is what your palate desires — or your diet requires. Thirty-five years before “green” was used to describe an all-encompassing lifestyle of things good and healthy, Arthur Gordon’s dream to open a restaurant with the same attitude had come to fruition. A no-brainer for Metro foodies, The Irregardless offers an ever-changing menu with delicious blackened shrimp and apple salad to pita bread pocket sandwiches packed with avocado, cucumber, shredded white cheddar cheese, Lemon Tahini and Asian spring mix. Items are created with freshly prepared ingredients from the farmers’ market and other dispensaries of local produce. www.irregardless.com.

Sunflowers Café

Now well into their third decade, Sunflowers is still serving a winning combination of healthy sandwiches, salads and delicious soups. Located at 8 W. Peace St. in front of Seaboard Station, downtowners at work and play flood the restaurant at peak lunch hours for the hometown atmosphere and delectable eats. http://sunflowersraleigh.com

Zoës Kitchen

As with all Mediterranean diets, the basic building blocks are fresh vegetables, cheeses and olive oils with produce and fish. The foundation of Zoës Kitchen is a recipe of fresh ingredients that, if consumed in moderation, constitutes a well-balanced diet. Metro readers continue to cheer for Zoës Kitchen year after year for their inexpensive healthy cuisine, great location, friendly staff and fast service. www.zoeskitchen.com.

CONSIGNMENT STORES

REVOLVER CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

124 Glenwood Ave.

Raleigh, NC 27603

http://revolverconsignmentboutique.blogspot.com/

Now located on Glenwood South, Revolver Consignment Boutique is a trendy second-hand shop offering a higher end of clothing brands while keeping prices low. They carry a variety of options for men and women, an assortment of jewelry and art from local designers. Check out their blog for favorite store items, must-haves and more. Make an appointment to consign, or stop by to shop their racks.

WEDDING CAKES

ONCE IN A BLUE MOON BAKERY & CAFÉ

115-G W. Chatham St.

Cary, NC 27511

www.bluemoonbakery.com

Once in A Blue Moon Bakery & Café in Cary offers a variety of tasty treats including pies, pastries, breads and custom-designed cakes. With a selection of over 15 types of specialty cakes and many flavors to choose from, Blue Moon Bakery and Café will satisfy your taste buds. Blue moon-themed murals add character, so stop in to enjoy a cup of coffee, the café menu or an assortment of creative desserts. Orders for specialty or custom-designed cakes, pies and other bakery goods may be placed online (www.bluemoonbakery.com).

EDIBLE ART

3801 Hillsborough St.

Raleigh, NC 27607

www.edibleartbakery.com

Whether you are in the market for a wedding cake or just a sweet treat, check out Edible Art on Hills­borough Street. For over 20 years, the firm has of­fered custom wedding and special occasion cakes with multiple options of sizes, filling, icing and cake flavors. Each decorated cake is designed individually to complement any theme. To satisfy your sweet tooth, try their cheesecake options, whole pies, lemon bars, cookies or brownies. Free consultation and cake tasting available upon appointment.

ANTIQUES

ACQUISITIONS LTD.

2003 Fairview Road

Raleigh, NC 27608

www.acquisitionslimited.com

Located in Raleigh’s Five Points, Acquisitions Ltd. Carries a wide selection of home accessories and furnishing. Reflecting the traditions of Europe’s history, the collection contains high-quality inventory at prices you can afford. Check out personally selected antiques, displayed in a room-like setting, or shop online at www.acquisitionslimited.com to view their latest arrivals and products.

WHITEHALL

1213 E. Franklin St.

Chapel Hill, NC 27514

www.whitehallantiques.com

Tucked away in an eccentric Villa Tempesta with over 85,000 square feet of showroom space, Whitehall at the Villa Antiques offers high-quality inventory in a historical setting. Founded in 1930, this shop has been a source of buyers from around the country for over 75 years. Specializing in period 18th and 19th century Formal English and Country French, Whitehall also features items of American origin, country English and formal French. Their array of inventory is due to their participation in the nation’s top charity antique shows.

HUNT & GATHER ANTIQUES

1910 Bernard St.

Raleigh, NC 27608

8724 Glenwood Ave.

Raleigh, NC 27617

www.huntandgathernc.com

Open since 2004, Hunt & Gather Antiques hosts over 50 vendors with an eclectic collection of designer brand furniture, lighting and home accessories. The recently opened second location on Glenwood Avenue hosts both vendor and consignment items, as well as designer space for rent and room for community gatherings. Inventory changes daily so check out their regularly updated online gallery (www.huntandgathernc.com), or stop in to see what’s new.

PEACOCK ALLEY

123 W. Franklin St.

Chapel Hill, NC 27516

www.peacockalleygifts.com

Peacock Alley in Chapel Hill offers renowned designers, including Simon Pearce Glass­ware, Lulu DK Matouk Fine Linens, French Guines Hens, Gordonsbury Baby Clothes and Bedding, Diane James Floral Arrangements and other well-known brands. Offering a wide selection of gift alternatives, Peacock Alley can be accessed online (www.peacock­alley.com) or in-store for special occasions, including baby gifts and bridal registry.

SALON FOR A SPRAY TAN

PHYSIOS

904 New Bern Ave.

Raleigh, NC 27601

Try Physios Salon & Skin Care for your next spray tan experience and enjoy one of the many services offered in this new and pleasant facility, now located on New Bern Avenue and complemented by a friendly and experienced wait staff. Third-year Bravo winner, Physios services include sunless and UV tanning, skincare and skin treatments, makeup, waxing, pilates training, hair design, styling and color by professionals. Spray tan packages and products available.

MOVIE THEATER

The Rialto Theater

Another Raleigh “landmark,” The Rialto Theater at Five Points, has served as an art house cinema playing the latest and best in independent and foreign films for over 30 years. Non-mainstream provocative titles adorn the marquee on Glenwood Avenue giving the neighborhood a metropolitan sparkle. The screen is three times the size of a multiplex — plus they serve beer and wine. The Rialto gives meaning and a sense of romance and sophistication to “going out for a movie.” The 1975 cult classic, Rocky Horror Picture Show, plays every Friday at midnight, attracting a colorful crowd dressed as the characters who act out the movie, among other bizarre activities. The Rialto is a venue of cultural significance for the fine films displayed on screen and for its place in our own history. www.therialto.com

Theater Building

The new Durham Performing Arts Center lands the best acts for several reasons. The acoustics, state-of-the-art sound system and spectacular décor attract big names in all mediums of entertainment — and patrons of the arts from all over the state. Broadway shows, high-profile comedy acts and top musical artists played over 150 performances this year alone. Music fans look forward to performances from Ringo Starr, Natalie Merchant and Lyle Lovett, to name just a few. Theater lovers have found a new home at the DPAC, taking in blockbusters including The Color Purple and Beauty and the Beast. The amazing season ahead includes productions of The Lion King, Billy Elliot, Hair and much more. www.dpacnc.com.

SERVICE STATION

Glenwood Village Exxon

Glenwood Village Exxon, at the corner of Oberlin Road and Glenwood Avenue — locally owned and operated by Brian Barker — has reached landmark status. Founded in the early 1950s by Avery Upchurch (mayor of Raleigh in the 1980s), and still referred to as Avery’s by some older locals, the easily accessible full-service gas station is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff who bring back that small town feel hard to find in today’s world of chain-operated fast food stores that only happen to pump gas. Glenwood Village Exxon offers full-time mechanics, friendly service and special attention to the needs of their customers. Metro readers agree!