Mezcalito is set to launch its Raleigh location on Monday, April 6. Nestled at 1000 Social in The Exchange in Midtown, this eatery will highlight the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine with a fresh twist. Not only is Mezcalito known for its vibrant meals, but it also has spots in Durham, Apex, Cary, Clayton, and Rolesville. [Check them out on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/mezcalitonc/).
Meanwhile, Cuya Cocina, a popular spot on Glenwood South, is launching a new coffee venture called Cuya Cafe this month. The front patio is undergoing a makeover to include a retractable roof. Expect an array of Latin-inspired breakfast items and a full coffee bar. [Catch them on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/cuyacocina/).
There’s exciting news for fast food fans too! A new Whataburger is opening on Six Forks Road near Costco on Thursday, April 9. This marks North Carolina’s second Whataburger location after the first opened in Charlotte last year. The chain is famous for its Texas-sized burgers and is open 24/7. [Find out more here](https://whataburger.com/home).
In North Raleigh, Casa Sofia will replace the former Chow at 8311 Creedmoor Road. This new Mexican restaurant aims to create a welcoming space for families and friends. They are planning to open this fall. [Follow their journey on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/project_casasofia).
In Apex, the popular Myra Café closed its doors on March 30 after three years. The space has now turned into Hope Cafe, serving Thai cuisine. They officially opened on April 1. [Learn more about Hope Cafe](https://hopecafe-nc.com/).
Morrisville is welcoming Pho Kitchen NC, a new Vietnamese restaurant taking shape in Park West Village. Stay tuned for updates as they prepare to open. [Keep an eye on their website for details](https://phokitchennc.com/).
While our Triangle-area restaurants are not among the nominees for the prestigious James Beard Awards this year, there’s still hope. Asheville’s Chai Pani and Botiwalla are in the running, and a new Botiwalla location is opening this spring in Raleigh Iron Works. [Check out Botiwalla here](https://botiwalla.com/).
In Durham, Carrburritos is planning to settle in the former Grata Diner space at Carr Mill Mall, an eagerly anticipated move for summer. Their original location at 711 West Rosemary Street will remain open until then. [See what they have to offer](https://carrburritos.com/).
Also in Durham, Chicken Salad Chick is moving into the old McAllister’s space. Their current locations in Cary and Raleigh are successful, and they’ll be expanding soon. [Explore Chicken Salad Chick](https://www.chickensaladchick.com/).
Sadly, Funguys Brewing has permanently closed its doors at 2408 Paula St. It was named the Best New Brewery in the country by USA Today in 2022. Additionally, Proximity Brewing in East Durham also announced its immediate closure of the taproom.
If you’re a food truck fan, the Durham Central Park Food Truck Rodeo is back in 2026 on April 12, May 31, and September 27. Expect over 30 food trucks and fun activities for all ages at Durham Central Park. [Get further details here](https://durhamcentralpark.org/events/food-truck-rodeo-info/).
Coming up, Trophy Brewing and Locals Seafood are hosting an Oyster Festival on April 12 from 1 to 5 p.m. This event will feature top oyster farmers from North Carolina. [Learn more about the festival](https://www.localsseafood.com/news-and-media/oysterfest-the-bend).
Another exciting event is the fourth annual Gettin’ Piggy With It on May 17. This BBQ festival will showcase chefs from across the country, benefiting the Frankie Lemmon School for children with disabilities. Tickets go on sale soon, and the family-friendly event promises delicious food, drinks, and entertainment.
On a serious note, 1 in 4 households led by single women in North Carolina live below the poverty line, nearly double the households led by single men. With rising childcare costs, many women are struggling to feed their kids, especially with SNAP cuts approaching. This March, let’s remember to support our community and ensure that everyone has access to food. [Consider contributing to the Food Bank](http://secure.foodbankcenc.org/site/R?i=nM9U9xM6-idH1FK2xfI9lu-Y2BXmV_MYonYzisP028s25kXffB5Egg).
Stay updated with local happenings by following Sean on the [Triangle Food Blog](https://trianglefoodblog.com/) and on social media @trianglefoodguy.
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