by Laura
This edition of the gift guide narrows down your shopping to a few categories that have something for everyone – food, books & sports.
Local Foodie Meccas
It’s probably impossible to make it through the holidays without giving or receiving a bundle of goodies from this gourmet super-store. They just released a host of coupons (30% off all nut towers!) that make it a little easier to buy your boss the tin full of candied pecans or chocolate truffles that she’s been craving. And don’t worry, out-of-state friends, if you wanted to send me a little snack, they deliver a variety of tasty gift packages available online.
A recent visitor pre-ordered a pie to take home on the plane – they’re just that good. If you prefer your loved ones to be pleasantly plump, stuff some baked goodies into your carry-on or invest in Mama Dip’s cookbook, chock-full of heart-stopping recipes from a classic Southern restaurant. And when warmer weather rolls around, you can choose from a variety of picnic baskets that include a red checkered table cloth, not to mention fried chicken and other greasy treats.
A newish Durham shop, Parker & Otis has settled itself in next to Brightleaf Square, making it a popular destination for coffee or a quick bite. But, they also offer gourmet foods like olive oil, wine & chocolates. A quick look at their online store revealed such gluttonous delights as chocolate chip bacon pancake mix. We are in the South, after all!
We’ve already written a bit about their delicious brunch options and their 5 days of dinner for $100 catering specials. Of course, it’s also a great place to stock up on Southern-specific gifts, too. Their website also offers recipes, so you can find a way to integrate herb-cheddar biscuits into your holiday feast.
While Southern Season is the go-to spot for wine tastings & cooking demos, I’ve been seeing good feedback about Lan’s, which offers in-depth culinary workshops focused on Asian cuisine. Online reviews reveal that she’s been giving lessons in Chinese cooking for ages, way before the Triangle area realized that ethnic food even existed. She’ll customize her approach for those interested in heart-healthy or vegetarian options, too. 4 classes are $120.
Image from www.3cups.net
Taking a friend to a traditional afternoon tea service is always a relaxing way to spend a few hours, sipping on exotic tisanes and nibbling on scones. I’ve tried high tea at the Carolina Inn, which is worth the $20 for the elegant atmosphere alone. Vintage Revival is a cute-looking Hillsborough option that offers a cottage-setting, tea for purchase, and shabby-chic home goods. 3 Cups has wine, coffee and tea – and frequently hosts events that showcase each of their specialities. Coming up – a bacon & champagne social. Guess bacon really is one of the major food groups ’round these parts!
Local Literary Haunts
Photo credit goes to umbrellalove.blogspot.com
This long-time Durham institution has an incredible selection of local writing and literary journals – plus, it’s right next to Francesca’s, where you can sit down for a slice of tiramisu to reward yourself for all of your hard work as a shopper extraordinaire. If you’re buying gifts online, every Regulator web order of $40+ earns you a $5 gift card. Sweet!
Franklin Street’s answer to the Regulator, this crowded but cozy book shop also highlights local favorites, but specializes in used & rare books. They also have an online search feature that allows you to browse their stock from the comfort of home.
Other places that I’m longing to check out include Internationalist Books, a collective, nonprofit bookstore & community center with a progressive slant; Wentworth & Leggett, featuring antique maps and rare editions, and The Know Bookstore & Restaurant, the oldest African-American owned store in the state, which offers you the opportunity to get a side of hush puppies to go with your reading selections. The Know also hosts weekly jazz events on Fridays.
Local Legends
In these parts, sports isn’t just a past time – it’s a part of immortal legend, from Bull Durham to Coach K. For sports memorabilia, hit up the Durham Bulls for local baseball treasures, buy a piece of Cameron at the Duke Store, or head over to UNC for your best selection of light blue wigs. Of course, there’s also seasonal options, like a Blue Devil Christmas ornament.
Next on our to-do list - exploring the local art scene. There’s tons of galleries, craft stores, and jewelers with unique offerings to explore. And, we’re putting Franklin Street & 9th Street head-to-head, in a series that focuses on food, drink and shopping choices from both of our perspectives. Stay tuned!
Laura
Harold
3 Comments
January 22, 2010 at 9:45 am
I was browsing to get a bunch of music videos for my party and just found out this post. I must say that you have done a wonderful effort. Thanks mate.
January 29, 2010 at 3:47 pm
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February 12, 2010 at 2:21 pm
Very easy to do! We use a WordPress template – just go to their website and they’ll walk you though, step by step. Good luck!