Essentially Laura

Imagining London

October 17, 2011 By Laura 1 Comment

Peter Pan's London Photo: Jason Hawkes

I have never been to London. But all my life I have been imagining it.

My imaginings are the stuff of dreams. Of a Disney World ride over the River Thames. Of royal coronations and weddings. Black umbrellas, rain, and fog. Austen, Dickens, and Shakespeare. And movies, of course. Lots of them.

I had plans to visit London several years ago. A five-night stay at the Covent Garden Hotel. Theatre tickets to Billy Elliot and War Horse. And one by The Bard, of course.

But at the last minute my plans changed and I was left London-less—and back to imagining—once more.

About my imagination: I can tell you that mine is vivid. And accurate. I have imagined Paris, Greece, and Rome (and many other faraway places). When I was finally able to visit, each of them was true to—and yet far exceeding—my wildest dreams.

And that is just how I imagine London will be. In my minds eye, it begins with an image like this:

Dreamlike London Photo: Artur Gerasch

I picture specialty shops in Notting Hill. Pubs and pints. Shepherd’s Pie and Pasties. Tea rooms and crumpets. Ravishing rare book rooms. Piccadilly Circus. Trafalgar Square. St. Paul’s Cathedral. And Abbey Road (sans Beatles).

London shops Photo: travelandtransitions.com

Big Ben. The Tower of London. A stroll through Kensington Park. Shopping in Covent Garden. And a crawl over the wall (Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts style) into Stanley Gardens.

Notting Hill

Stanley Gardens

Of course, there are the always recurring dreams. Of me standing, dumbfounded, outside of Buckingham Palace, just as the Queen’s motorcade passes, and forgetting to return the royal wave. Or forgetting to “Mind the Gap” and stumbling into a crowded tube.

Yes, I would come to London to see the sights. But I would also come to discover, well, London. I have learned that every city has its own personality and London, I’m sure, is no exception. From my limited vantage point, I imagine it possessing the energy of New York, the refinement of Boston, the trendiness of L.A., and the bohemian flair of The City by The Bay. Perhaps London-up-close will prove me wrong. But at least I will know. That is what traveling does: What we have imagined we finally know.

Filed Under: Europe, London, Travel, United Kingdom

Day Trippin’: Raleigh, NC: One Great Discovery

August 10, 2011 By Laura 2 Comments

Raleigh skyline

When Sir Walter Raleigh set out to colonize the New World back in 1584, he never dreamed of the city that would one day bear his name. Raleigh, North Carolina, the state capital and second largest city in the state, is a destination that even Sir Walter would be excited to explore.

Sir Walter Raleigh

Located in the Piedmont region, equidistant from the mountains and the coast, this city of over 400,000 is one of the fastest growing cities in the country. And no wonder. With the convergence of three major educational institutions (North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill), a major airline hub, moderate climate, and cultural wealth, Raleigh continues to draw an eclectic mix of people from around the world.

State Capital Building photo: Randy Bryant

Raleigh has something for everyone. Year-round festivities and attractions, a treasure trove of museums and historic sites, a thriving nightlife, and great restaurants and hotels, make it the perfect destination for visitors and business travelers alike.

Downtown Raleigh is full of great discoveries, like the old State Capital Building. Completed in 1840 and a National Historic Landmark, it is one of the finest and best-preserved examples of a major civic building in the Greek Revival style of architecture.

NC Museum of Art

Another of the city’s great treasures is the newly-renovated North Carolina Museum of Art. Reopened in April 2010, the museum includes a 164-acre park with a unique blend of art, architecture, and nature. The centerpiece of the expansion is a new 127,000-square-foot building and outdoor amphitheater, where concerts are held throughout the year.

If your taste tends towards history and natural science, then be sure to visit the

NC Museum of Natural Science, the Marbles Kids Museum, or the NC Museum of History, an interactive museum about the world.

One of the gems of “The City of Oaks” as Raleigh is sometimes called, is Historic Oakwood, a thriving 19th century neighborhood close to downtown. Enjoy Raleigh’s annual arts festival Artsplosure. Take in a live performance at Moore Square. Or check out Artspace, a visual arts center that gives visitors the opportunity to interact with working artists and participate in hands-on arts education.

Oakwood Inn photo: Randy Bryant

Artsplosure photo: Randy Bryant

While you’re in Raleigh you’ll want to be sure to catch the North Carolina Symphony, an opera, or a Broadway touring show at The Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, a $7.5 million complex billed as “the most elegant, immersive suite of live-performance venues in the Southeast.”

Memorial Auditorium

After a day (or weekend) of sightseeing you’ll want to relax at the Umstead Hotel and Spa, the area’s only five-star hotel. Located just outside of Raleigh in Cary, the Umstead is a retreat for the senses. Incredible food, impecable service, and a luxurious full-service spa await the weariest traveler.

Umstead Hotel

So the next time you’re looking for a destination that really does have it all, take a tip from Sir Walter and discover the fascinating new world of Raleigh.

*Special thanks to my lifelong friend, Randy Bryant, for letting me use his amazing photos. (“I live here. I carry a camera.”)

Filed Under: NC History, NC Travel, North Carolina

Day Trippin’: Durham, NC: Bull City Rising

August 2, 2011 By Laura 1 Comment

: American Tobacco Complex

Without a doubt, Durham is North Carolina’s rising star. This city of 268,000 located in the Research Triangle area (Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill) has taken center stage in the past few years. Just this year, Fortune Small Business ranked Durham #12 in America’s “100 Best Places to Live and Launch,” noting its “thriving biotech and pharmaceutical industries, local arts festivals, and college sports.” Bloomberg Business Week called it “one of the best cities to ride out the recession.” Not only has Durham attracted the attention of the national media, but this culturally diverse city has also attracted celebrities like jazz great Branford Marsalis and American Idol Clay Aiken.

"Bull City"

Durham has many monikers: “The City of Medicine” (because of nationally-ranked Duke University Medical Center and Durham’s proximity to the world’s largest biotech research park), “The Bull City” (for Bull Durham Tobacco), and “The Brightleaf City” (because of its rich tobacco heritage). With more than 5.2 million visitors annually, Durham is the top destination of arrivals at RDU International Airport.

Brightleaf Square

Just thirty years ago, the sweet smell of Brightleaf tobacco drifted through the air each morning in this once blue collar town. But no more. Over the past few years, vacant tobacco warehouses have been transformed into condos, restaurants and stores. As anyone who lives in Durham will tell you, it is quickly becoming a nationally renowned “foodie haven”, drawing famous chefs from around the world. Brightleaf Square on Main Street is a popular spot for dining and relaxing, as well as the American Tobacco Complex, with its restaurants, film festivals (including the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival), concerts on the lawn, and location just across

Durham Bulls

the street from the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, home of Durham’s triple-A minor league baseball team.Another downtown gem is the Durham Farmer’s Market, where local farmers gather each Saturday to display their produce and homemade goods.

Durham Farmers' Market

Durham Performing Arts Center

The new jewel in Durham’s crown is the beautiful Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC). Built by the famed Nedelanders of Broadway, DPAC is the most-attended venue in the world next to the Sydney Opera House.

No visit to Durham would be complete without visiting the Duke University campus and Duke Chapel. The centerpiece of campus life, this beautiful Gothic structure was built in 1932 and home to a Flentrop organ with more than 5,000 pipes. Right next to Duke Chapel are the lovely Duke Gardens. Admission is free and they are open to visitors year round. Adjacent to campus is the four-star Washington-Duke Inn & Golf Club, an English-style country inn.

Duke Gardens photo: Alice Le Duc

Duke Chapel

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to check out the American Tobacco Trail, a 22-mile biking and walking trail that runs through town. Another favorite spot for outdoor lovers is the Eno River State Park, home each July to the Festival for the Eno.

West Point on the Eno

No doubt about it: With its cultural wealth, ethnic diversity, great food, and beautiful natural surroundings, Durham is the Triangle’s shining star. So come to the Bull City—and get your shine on.

Filed Under: NC Travel, North Carolina, Uncategorized

Day Trippin’: Chapel Hill, NC: The Southern Part of Heaven

July 25, 2011 By Laura 1 Comment

The Old Well University of North Carolina photo: Travel & Leisure

If you’re ever in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, home of the University of North Carolina Tar Heels, it won’t be long before you spot this bumper sticker: “If God is not a Tar Heel, then why is the sky Carolina blue?” Spend just one day in this lovely little college town and you’ll be asking yourself the same thing.

Chapel Hill, located just west of the capital city of Raleigh, is part of the “Triangle” comprised of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. This “Southern Part of Heaven,” as it was named by William Meade Prince in his book by the same title, is a visual and cullinary paradise.

Chapel Hill in the 1890s

Life in Chapel Hill centers around the University of North Carolina, established in 1793 and the oldest public university in the United States. In addition to the Old Well, where Civil War soldiers once stopped to water their horses, one of the University’s most treasured landmarks is the The Carolina Inn.

The inn, which incorporates mixed late 18th and early 19th century architectural elements taken from Mount Vernon and Richland Plantation, was built in 1924 as a boarding house for alumni.

Enjoy a drink at the Crossroads Bar, savor afternoon tea, or treat yourself to dinner at the Carolina Crossroads Restaurant, where impeccably prepared dishes and Southern hospitality abound.

The Carolina Inn

A popular spot for business travelers is the new Franklin Hotel, a boutique luxury hotel in the heart of town and well on its way to earning four stars.

Just a short drive from Chapel Hill, you’ll find the Fearrington Village Inn and Restaurant. Ranked by Conde Nast Traveler readers as the “#2 Small Hotel in America” the inn is one of only two in the state to claim both the AAA’s Five Diamond award and the Forbes Travel Guide’s five-star rating.

Not only will Chapel Hill’s beauty take your breath away, but so will its food. Locally supplied, farm fresh foods are the norm in this earth-friendly town. For instance, Lantern, named one of the ”Top 50 Restaurants in America” by Gourmet Magazine. Prefer Southern fare? Then check out Crook’s Corner called “sacred ground for Southern foodies” by the New York Times. Craving Indian? Then Vimala’s Curryblossom Cafe is a must. This community-focused and supported eatery is one of the most popular in town. Other Chapel Hill favorites include Kitchen and The Mediterranean Deli, or “Med Deli”, as it is best known.

Star Theatre at Morehead Planetarium

Be sure to walk through campus and over to Franklin Street, where you’ll find the historic Varsity Theater. Take in one of the shows at the Morehead Planetarium. Or catch your favorite act at the Cat’s Cradle, host to such artists as American Idol finalist Anoop Desai, The Red Clay Ramblers and Chapel Hill’s own Grammy award-winning James Taylor.

Varsity Theater

Love art? Then visit the Ackland Art Museum, with a collection of more than 16,000 pieces from around the world.

As anyone who lives here will tell you, the words “basketball” and “national championship” are synonymous with Chapel Hill (UNC-CH has won five NCAA Tournaments) and nothing says it better than the Carolina Basketball Museum. A must see.

So the next time you’re in the Triangle, consider a visit to Chapel Hill. With great food, exceptional hotels, and plenty to do, Chapel Hill offers travelers a little bit of heaven right here on earth.

Filed Under: Cuisine, NC Travel, North Carolina

Day Trippin’: Wilmington, NC: Cape Fear Calling

July 17, 2011 By Laura 1 Comment

If my ship sails from sight, it doesn’t mean my journey ends, it simply means the river bends. ~ J. Enoch Powell

Wilmington Riverwalk

Without a doubt, this traveler’s favorite weekend getaway is to Wilmington, North Carolina, just a two-hour drive from the capital city of Raleigh. While Wrightsville Beach is just 20 minutes from Wilmington by car, the gently flowing Cape Fear River always holds a special appeal.

My favorite place to stay is the Coastline Inn, offering complimentary breakfast and all riverfront views. Part of the historic Atlantic Coastline property, this newly-renovated inn is adjacent to the Wilmington Railroad Museum. Prefer the amenities of a larger hotel? Then try the Wilmington Hilton Riverside, less than a block away.

Begin your Saturday with a stop at Port City Java, a locally owned and operated coffee house & roastery. A proud corporate sponsor of The Full Belly Project and purveyor of fair trade Fairganic Coffees, you’ll find a Port City on almost every corner in town.

After a cup of java, stroll over to The Cotton Exchange, a group of 25 shops located in a restored turn-of-the-century cotton mill on Front Street. Once a thriving port city, Wilmington was once home to one of the largest cotton export companies in the world. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Two Sisters Bookery, a favorite of readers and writers alike.

Next, enjoy a walk along the waterfront or take a cruise on a scenic riverboat. Or visit the Battleship USS North Carolina. Prefer the excitement of Hollywood? Then take a tour of the EUE Screen Gems Studio, home to the TV hit “Dawson’s Creek” and the movie “The Secret Life of Bees”.

Battleship USS North Carolina

The only problem you’ll encounter in Wilmington is deciding where to dine. Not only are the choices many, but the food is divine. Being a lover of everything French, this traveler’s favorite is Caprice Bistro, with authentic French cuisine, exceptional wines, and impeccable service. Another great spot is Circa 1922. This amazing tapas bar offers a variety of seafood entrees (including shrimp & grits) in addition to beef dishes, sushi, and sumptuous desserts. Or try, Indochine, an authentic Asian cafe with the best Thai-Vietnamese food in town.

After dinner, take in a performance at Thalian Hall, a beautiful Greek Revival building built in 1858. Thalian Hall once housed the City Hall, library, and opera house, and welcomed the talents of “Buffalo Bill” Cody and John Phillip Sousa.

Thalian Hall by Alan Cradick Photography

Cape Fear River

Before you go home, you’ll want to hop in your car and drive over to Wrightsville Beach, which offers public beach access and eateries galore. The perfect spot for families and singles alike, it’s fun in the sun you won’t want to miss.

So the next time you’re looking for the perfect getaway, come to Wilmington. Where you’ll find a river of endless delights.

Filed Under: Cape Fear, Coastal History, Cuisine, North Carolina

The Outer Banks of North Carolina: High Flyin’ Fun

July 8, 2011 By Laura 1 Comment

Back in 1900, when Wilbur and Orville Wright were looking for a place to conduct experiments which would result in the first powered, controlled flight, they landed on the perfect spot: the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

"First Flight" December 17, 1903

This eighty-five mile stretch of history-rich coast from Cape Hatteras to Corolla is the ideal destination for the outdoor adventurer or traveler who just wants to relax.

Nags Head, NC

Aerial view of Jockey's Ridge

One of the area’s most fascinating attractions is Jockey’s Ridge, the “the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern United States.” Located in the town of Nags Head, Jockey’s Ridge attracts climbers, kite enthusiasts, and hang gliders alike. Sand boarding, as well as a number of water sports including kayaking, windsurfing, and swimming are also permitted along the sound.

Hang Gliding on Jockey's Ridge

Adjacent to Jockey’s Ridge, in the town of Kill Devil Hills, is the Wright Brothers National Memorial. The site includes the Memorial Tower, field, hangar, and visitor center, which features models and actual tools used by the Wright brothers, as well as a full-size replica of their 1903 Flyer.

Wright Brothers Memorial

If you prefer the thrill of climbing a lighthouse, then this is the place for you. North Carolina has eight shining sentinels, with the Bodie Island and Currituck Beach Lighthouses just a short drive from Nags Head. One of my favorite day trips is to the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, just an hour and a half drive down the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. From there you can hop a ferry to Ocracoke Island, one of the last unspoiled getaways on the Outer Banks.

Bodie Island Lighthouse

Village of Ocracoke

Ocracoke is truly a world set apart. Ocracoke Village, the only part of Ocracoke that is not part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, is a great destination for those who prefer a more laid-back getaway. Walking tours are available in town, though many prefer to tour the island by bike. Camping is a popular on Ocracoke, and there are several campsites, though hotels, rentals, and B&Bs can be found in abundance.

So the next time you’re looking for the perfect vacation spot, visit the Outer Banks. Where history, adventures–and dreams–take flight.

Filed Under: Coastal History, Lighthouses, NC Outer Banks, North Carolina

Day Trippin’: Blackbeard’s Beaufort

July 1, 2011 By Laura 2 Comments

Just a 3-hour drive from the capital of Raleigh, lies the charming waterfront town of Beaufort, North Carolina, the perfect day trip destination for historians, foodies, and beach lovers alike. Founded in 1709, it is the state’s third oldest town, once serving as a fishing village, port, and home to the infamous pirate Blackbeard, aka Edward Teach.

Beaufort waterfront circa 1900

Hammock House

Blackbeard’s home, Hammock House, is located just a few blocks from the Beaufort waterfront along Taylor’s Creek. Now a private residence, it was home to the world’s most notorious pirate in the early 1700s.

Blackbeard the Pirate

Legend has it that Blackbeard captured a ship near Cape Lookout and made everyone walk the plank except a 16 year-old French maiden. The story goes that he took her as his bride and forced her to go with him to Hammock House, where just one week later he hung her from an oak tree in the front yard.

The pirate, known for his terrifying appearance (he wore a long braided beard with slow-burning hemp which created an enveloping cloud of smoke) is still a presence in Beaufort today. Just recently, scientists discovered the anchor to his ship, the Queen Anne’s Revenge. Want to learn more about Blackbeard? Then visit the North Carolina Maritime Museum and see the ship’s bell along with more than 300 artifacts at the new Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge 1718 exhibition.

NC Maritime Museum

After taking in the exhibit, you’ll want to get outside and enjoy a walk through town, where you’ll see dozens of beautifully restored pre-Revolutionary homes. If you prefer, hop on a horse-drawn carriage or double-decker bus for a guided tour.

Horse-drawn carriage tour

St. Paul's Episcopal Church

Old Burying Ground

While you’re in Beaufort, be sure to stop by the Old Burying Ground on Ann Street. The oldest legible marker dates back to 1756, though many of the graves are older. Stories abound about those laid to rest here, including the tale of an English solider who requested to be buried upright so he could eternally salute his king.

Shackelford Banks

Finally, make your way over to Front Street, where you’ll find an abundance of antique, clothing, and gift shops. Getting hungry? Beaufort offers an array of fare for every palate. Clawson’s 1905, a former grocery store and historic landmark, is a favorite among locals and visitors. Or try the Front Street Grill and Rhum Bar at Stillwater, for delicious local seafood with a waterfront view.

Beaufort waterfront

My personal favorite is Aqua. Off the beaten path, this hip little getaway is sure to please. With small plates created with the best local ingredients and a wine list to match, Aqua doesn’t disappoint. Outdoor seating and impeccable service add up to a memorable dining experience.

So the next time you’re looking for a great getaway, check out Beaufort. A town so intriguing, even Blackbeard couldn’t resist.

Filed Under: Coastal History, Cuisine

North Carolina’s Sentinels of the Sea

June 21, 2011 By Laura 4 Comments

In my travels, I often plan trips to lighthouses en route or close to my destination. But of all the lighthouses I have photographed and climbed, none captivate me like North Carolina’s shining beauties. These guardians of the night—along with dozens of river and marshes lights—have protected the coast for centuries, warning sailors of the treacherous waters once known as the “Graveyard of the Atlantic.”

North Carolina Lighthouses

Whether you’re a lighthouse lover or simply planning a trip to the North Carolina coast, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is a must see. Part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and best known for its diagonal black and white stripes, it is the world’s tallest brick lighthouse (200 ft.). Aside from its striking appearance, the Hatteras lighthouse has a fascinating history.

Cape Hatteras

Constructed in 1803, the original tower was destroyed by Union soldiers during the Civil War and re-built in 1870. In 1999, the lighthouse was moved 2,900 feet to save it from the encroaching sea. The lighthouse and the keeper’s house, now a museum, are open for climbing mid-April through Columbus Day.

Ocracoke Light

From Cape Hatteras it is just 40 minutes by ferry to Ocracoke Island and the Ocracoke Lighthouse, North Carolina’s oldest operating lighthouse. Built in 1823, it is also the second oldest continuously operated lighthouse on the East Coast. This small 75-foot white tower overlooks Ocracoke’s Silver Lake Harbor, where the notorious pirate, Blackbeard, met his fate during a battle in 1718.

Currituck Beach Lighthouse

North Carolina’s northernmost lighthouse and my personal favorite, is the Currituck Beach Lighthouse. This 158-foot tall brick beauty towers over the town of Corolla and lights the passage from Bodie Island, NC to Cape Henry, VA. The Currituck Light and its beautiful Victorian-style keeper’s house fell prey to nature and vandalism during the 1970s. However, restoration of the lighthouse and keeper’s quarters began in 1980, and the site is now a showplace of North Carolina lighthouse history.

Two other famous black and white North Carolina lights are the Bodie Island Lighthouse (pronouned “Body”) and Cape Lookout. After numerous problems, the Bodie Light was finally illuminated in 1872, and served as a halfway marker between the Cape Hatteras and Currituck lights. The lighthouse just recently went through extensive restoration and is once again open to the public.

Bodie Island

Cape Lookout

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse is part of the beautiful Cape Lookout National Seashore. The tower is one of a few lighthouses that operates during the day, and it is the only lighthouse in the United States with diamond-shaped daymarks which actually show direction.

North Carolina’s most unusual lighthouse is the Oak Island Light. Made of three shades of Portland Cement (white, black and gray) this lighthouse stands 153 tall from its base. It has the distinction of being the newest lighthouse in the United States and the second most powerful in the world, only surpassed by a French lighthouse along the English Channel.

Oak Island

Old Baldy

Close to Frying Pan Shoals is the Bald Head Island Lighthouse, or “Old Baldy,” as it is more commonly known. Perched where the Cape Fear meets the Atlantic Ocean, Old Baldy, North Carolina’s oldest lighthouse, was built in 1817. The light was dimmed in 1866 and later re-lit, where it burned brightly until 1935. You can purchase a package at the Old Baldy Museum which includes a ferry ticket, lunch, admission to the lighthouse and keeper’s quarters, and an historic tour of the island.

1939 Price's Creek postcard

The Price’s Creek Lighthouse (postcard photo: The Southport Times) constructed in 1849 of bricks shipped from England, sits along the banks of the Cape Fear River. Used as a signal station during the Civil War, it was heavily damaged. Though it remains inoperable, the lighthouse is an important reminder of the flourishing trade that once took place along the North Carolina coast.

So visit North Carolina and see these shining treasures. If you live here, venture to the coast and climb these sentinels of the sea.

Filed Under: Coastal History, Lighthouses, North Carolina

The Brine and Bottle: The Best of Both Worlds

June 18, 2011 By Laura 2 Comments

When The Brine and Bottle opened on the Manteo Causeway last summer, who ever dreamed that this unassuming little tapas and spirits bar would quickly become the hottest new restaurant on the Outer Banks?

Scallop Ceviche

The Brine and Bottle is “New York good.” That’s because co-owners Ashley Whitfield (beverage director) and Andrew Donovan (executive chef) cut their culinary teeth on New York’s finest: the James Beard House, the Core Club, Thomas Keller’s Per Se, and Keith McNally’s Pastis.

Co-owners Ashley Whitfield & Andrew Donovan

But it was when Whitfield was managing Tinto Fino (New York’s first Spanish-only wine store) and Donovan was Executive Chef of Tia Pol and her sister restaurant El Quinto Fino, that the two collaborated on a series of wine dinners. A great food and wine pairing was born, and they returned to their North Carolina roots and opened this culinary destination that showcases local, seasonal small plate cuisine.

Sea Bass

Hatteras Tuna

The Brine and Bottle has already become famous for its unique take on everything Southern. A personal favorite, the Pimento Cheese Bites, are crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth delicious in. Other B&B favs include shrimp and grits (featuring Falls Mill grit cakes), succulent pan-roasted duck breast, and their famous fried egg sandwich and BLT made with thick Benton slab bacon.

Shrimp & Grits

Donovan also has a knack for ribs, simmering his in root beer (that’s right) for 10 plus hours and then serving them with a side of sweet pepper coleslaw.

However, the food is just the beginning. Whitfield, a confident and knowledgeable Sommelier, loves nothing more than helping customers pair their food with a unique and evolving selection of wines and beers from around the world.

In a hurry? Grab a beer and a Beach Box and some of the Brine and Bottle’s famous pickled goods. Or enjoy dinner on the deck and live music every Thursday night.

Get pickled at The Brine and Bottle

Small plates with a view

The Brine and Bottle is receiving rave reviews and just this spring won the Chef Award at the 2011 OBX Grand Tasting festivities.

So the next time you’re looking for a taste of New York paired with the best of the South, try The Brine and Bottle. It’s truly the best of both worlds.

The Brine and Bottle is located at The Caribbean Professional Center on the Causeway in Nags Head.

7531 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959

p 252.715.1818

Summer 2011 Hours
Serving Food
monday – saturday 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
sunday 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. (brunch 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.)
Bar Open Until…

The Brine and Bottle: http://thebrineandbottle.com/ Or follow them on Facebook.

Filed Under: Cuisine, North Carolina

One Delectable Destination

June 14, 2011 By Laura 8 Comments

I am currently reading Dame Margaret Drabble’s wonderful collection of short stories entitled, A Day in the Life of a Smiling Woman. In her story, “A Voyage to Cythera,” travel-obsessed Helen ruminates about her lust for travel: “She always felt that the sea might lie beyond such rising nothingness, and sometimes it was the sea, but more often it was the Caledonian Market or a row of Hampstead houses; though whatever it was was somehow irrelevant, for it was that tense moment of expectation before revelation that she so much cherished.”

That “tense moment of expectation before revelation” is what Nick Burrington’s sumptuous blog In Pursuit of Perfection is all about. Nick, Managing Director of Essential Hotels and Bon Viveur in Berkshire, England, is a man in pursuit—of travel destinations, and dishes, that delight the senses.

Garlic Shrimp

Check out his sumptuous recipes for Red Lobster Crab Alfredo and Garlic Shrimp. In the mood for something sweet? Then try his delectable recipe for Chocolate and Ricotta Cheesecake from the Dunston Hall Hotel.

Whatever your tastes, Nick aims to please. One thing’s for sure: As you set out to find that perfect dish, In Pursuit of Perfection will guide you through a land of mouthwatering delight.

You can follow Essential Hotels and Nick on Twitter @Essentialhotels @nickburrington.

Filed Under: Cuisine, Recipes