Maggiano's and other new eateries are coming to the Triangle

Maggiano's Little Italy is set to make its second appearance in the Triangle by taking over the former Brio Italian Grille location at Crabtree Valley Mall. The chain, well known for its large family-style plates, has not yet announced a specific opening date. This expansion follows their existing spot in Durham at Streets at Southpoint. Meanwhile, the region's dining reputation continues to grow, with fresh accolades arriving from the Michelin Guide.

At the 2026 Michelin Guide American South ceremony held in Nashville, three local spots earned new Bib Gourmand designations. These honors went to Ajja in Raleigh, Ideal's in Durham, and Tesoro in Carrboro, a small 18-seat pasta house. Several others, including Prime Barbecue, Mala Pata, and Sam Jones BBQ, kept their previous status. Additionally, sixteen other establishments, such as Brewery Bhavana and The Fearrington House Restaurant, retained their Michelin recommended listings.

Beyond the new Italian arrival, other brands are making moves into the area. Millie's Homemade Ice Cream, a franchise from Pittsburgh, aims to open its first North Carolina location at 325 Blake St. in City Market. This spot is next to Blackbird Books and Coffee, with a goal to open before the year ends. In the same city, South Block, a Charlotte-based chain famous for acai bowls, is preparing to open at North Hills St. near bartaco, though no date has been set.

Activity is also picking up in other nearby towns. In Apex, Grain & Berry recently opened its second state location in Beaver Creek Crossings. Raleigh is also celebrating a milestone, as Winston's Grille marks 40 years in business. The restaurant was founded in 1986 by Wil O'Neal and Charles Winston Jr., marking four decades of local history.

Durham is seeing a change in its dining landscape as M Kikkei, formerly M Pocha, prepares for a soft opening on October 24 and a grand opening on October 29. This Nikkei concept, which mixes Japanese and Peruvian culinary styles, is the seventh part of the Mpire group. In Pittsboro, Tavolo Italian Eatery has already opened, while Gandy Coffee House is expected to arrive in early 2027 in a historic house on North Small St. On the downside, Sushioki in Research Triangle Park has closed after eight years.

The upcoming month is packed with food events. The first Chapel Hill Biscuit Festival happens on October 25 at American Legion Post 6, raising money for SECU Family House. A few days later, chefs will host a dinner at Holl & Stone Farm. Preeti Waas is also planning a sandwich popup in Durham on October 31. In November, the Chefs for Change Gala and a Diwali party are scheduled, along with the third Rawleigh Oyster Fest on November 7.

The oyster fest features a new theme called Smoke & Shuck and includes NC pitmasters for the first time. Organizers added a lower-priced ticket option after feedback from attendees. The previous two events sold out and raised about $12,500. The Trophy Trot 5K returns on Thanksgiving morning, having raised nearly $60,000 last year. The state fair continues through Sunday, and the Food Bank is highlighting hunger issues in the region.