Erica Chats: Erica’s Maggy-Winning Picks

Erica DeLong, 2023 Maggy winner for Best Local Radio Personality

The Maggy Awards are here, and I couldn’t be more excited for some of the leaders and businesses in our community. It’s time to celebrate!!

Our family is proud to have lived in the Cary/Morrisville area for over a decade now. I’m constantly wowed by the beauty, the people, and the growth. It’s hard to narrow down our favorites, but here are some of this year’s winners near and dear to me.

Fenton: We always take family and friends to Cary’s new mixed-use development when they visit. There is something for everyone at Fenton, from going to a movie, to shopping and eating, to working out or relaxing on the square. My favorites include The Gatorbug boutique, Colletta, and Superica!

The Gatorbug boutique at Fenton is a go-to when Erica needs a stylish new look.

The Umstead Hotel & Spa: This is the perfect spot for a staycation or to treat yourself! Personally, I’ve been saving all my gift cards to book a day at the newly renovated spa! My girlfriends and I love to pop over to the lounge for a cocktail or a bite to eat.

Erica’s daughter, Ella Grace, enjoying a girls day at The Umstead Hotel & Spa.

Preston Flowers: Whether I am planning ahead or in a pinch, Barbara McKinnon and her team always come through with the perfect arrangement or gift idea. They work incredibly hard and are dedicated to giving back to the community.

Garden Supply Company: Rooted in the area for over 30 years, GSC is my go-to place for making my porches and yard look beautiful in every season. Not only are they there to offer tips and advice on plants, but their incredible store is also packed with gifts for the home and garden enthusiast.

Town and Country Veterinary Hospital: I feel incredibly lucky to have Town and Country to take care of our fur babies. They have a beautiful facility and top-notch service that gives me peace of mind, whether I’m taking them for a checkup or dropping them off for a stay. They came in clutch when our daughter was born early and spent time in the NICU. Town and Country kept us up to date on our animals with cute pictures and quality care so that our focus could be on our daughter.

Town and Country Veterinary Hospital kept the DeLongs up to date with photos of their dog, Lucy Lou, while she was boarded there.

A’Verde Cocina & Tequila Library: You must go and try the cornbread! Chef Katsuji Tanabe prepares comforting dishes from the heart as well as giving back by donating his time and services to community organizations such as March of Dimes.

Corbett’s Burger and Soda Bar: This is a must for families in the area! Favorites include the seasoned waffle fries, gluten-free nuggets, and of course the best burgers in town! While you are there, make sure to try one of their huge assortment of classic glass bottle sodas.

Rey’s Restaurant: You can’t beat the food, especially the steak, and Rey himself will serve you bananas foster tableside. The chocolate raspberry truffle is a must-have. Even if we are too full, we grab a piece to go.

Lugano Ristorante: Grab a round booth in the bar and relax with a glass of wine. Truly deserving of Best Italian this year, I don’t skip the lasagna every time I visit.

Clearly, my foodie heart won out on this list of favorites, but you really can’t go wrong with any of this year’s Maggy winners. After all, they were chosen by you, Cary Magazine readers, and you have pretty great taste.

Be sure to stay in touch and share your favorites with me @EricaDeLong.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *