Why We Support Small Businesses
Small businesses are the backbone to our local economy. When you shop small, you’re not just making a purchase, you’re investing in your community. These local businesses bring character, innovation, and a personal touch to our community. Every cup of coffee, locally produced or curated goods, or family dinner out contributes to our thriving local ecosystem.
We celebrate Small Business Saturday on November 29th this year! This day is all about spotlighting the local and small retailers, service providers, and business leaders who make our community unique. Net Friends has been a proud Durham business since 1997, and we encourage everyone to celebrate by supporting small businesses where you live.
Below are some of our favorite places, frequented by Net Friends staff. Check them out and discover your new favorite local spot!
Restaurants We Love
Apex Wings, Apex, NC
Best wings in the area. – Jack
Breadwaala, Cary, NC
Slow-made sourdough that never misses the mark. - Neelesh
Brewery Bhavana, Raleigh, NC
Dim sum, craft beer, and books? A perfect trio. – Shanye
Bombshell Brewery, Holly Springs, NC
Great beer and music. - Jack
Chai's Asian Bistro, Raleigh, NC
The food is magnificent. - Jamal
Chirba Chirba Food Truck, Triangle Area
Some of the best soup dumplings I've ever had! – Olivia
Death & Taxes, Raleigh, NC
An elevated dining experience worth every bite. – Shanye
Figulina, Raleigh, NC
Homemade pasta that’s pure magic. – Will
Gocciolina, Durham, NC
Their black-board menu changes daily and they have the most authentic antipasti. - Emily
Indochine, Wilmington, NC
Fantastic Thai food in an environment that makes you feel like you are on vacation somewhere really special. – Gabbie
J. Betski’s, Raleigh, NC
Pierogi burger, anyone? Totally worth it. – Will
Juju, Durham, NC
Best Asian tapas restaurant in Durham. – Olivia
Longleaf Swine, Raleigh, NC
Barbecue with heart and plenty of flavor. – Shanye
NOFO, Raleigh, NC
Great reasonably priced food and an awesome gift shop with premade meals. – Will
Raleigh Raw, Raleigh, NC
Great quality fresh food with a chill, down to earth atmosphere. – Jamal
The Roast Grill – Raleigh, NC
Old-school hot dogs done to perfection. – Will
Saltbox Seafood Joint, Durham, NC
Great seafood and don't sleep on the hush puppies! – Gabbie
Sitar India Palace, Durham, NC
A Net Friends favorite! Fantastic buffet and friendly service. – Neelesh
Trophy Pizza + Brewing, Raleigh, NC
I always take my parents when they visit, it is a favorite spot of ours. – Olivia
Union Special, Raleigh, NC
A small bakery in Raleigh that hits it out of the park every time. – Jamal
Cafés, Coffeeshops, and Bakeries
Boulted Bread, Raleigh, NC
Freshly baked loaves and pastries worth lining up for. – Shanye
Benchwarmers Bagels, Raleigh, NC
Bagels and breakfast sandwiches that redefine breakfast goals. – Shanye
Coco Cinnamon / Little Waves Coffee, Durham, NC
A Durham icon for coffee lovers... beautiful drinks and cozy vibes. – Shanye
Cultivate Coffee, Fuquay-Varina, NC
Coffee is perfection, but the muffins and scones are to die for. – Susanna
Fount Coffee, Morrisville, NC
Great breakfast / brunch spot and everything is gluten free. - Joel
Jubala Coffee, Raleigh, NC
Fantastic waffles and perfectly brewed espresso. – Shanye
Little Waves Coffee/Cocoa Cinnamon, Durham, NC
Phenomenal coffee. - Gary
Union Special, Raleigh, NC
Still a favorite among our team for baked goods and sandwiches. – Shanye
Pine State Coffee, Raleigh, NC
Simple, well-crafted coffee that keeps you coming back. – Shanye
Other
Glass Jug Beer Lab, Durham, NC
Our fav local bottle shop. – Olivia
Little Oak Collective, Durham, NC
Curated local and sustainable kids consignment boutique. – Shanye
Livy’s Lavish Wash, Durham, NC
Best grooming and self-wash in town. Your pup will look great!! - Neelesh
The Fitness Lab, Holly Springs, NC
Small group, trainer led classes with a supportive community that pushes you to improve. – Susanna
Wilma’s Plant Hub, Creedmoor, NC
The cutest little shop. Friendly, folksy vibe and a whimsical selection too! - Christine
Support Local for the Holidays
When planning your holiday gifts or family gatherings, consider local! Grab a gift card, enjoy a meal, or pick up something locally made from one of these incredible small businesses.
From all of us at Net Friends, thank you for supporting small businesses and helping our communities grow stronger together.
Happy Small Business Saturday 2025!
For more small business recommendations, check out past years' staff picks:
- 2024 Local Businesses We Love at Net Friends
- 2023 Local Businesses We Love at Net Friends
- 2022 Local Businesses We Love at Net Friends
- 2021 Local Businesses We Love at Net Friends
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At Net Friends, we believe in the power of human expertise. While we leverage AI to enhance our content and processes, all blog posts are written and edited by our knowledgeable staff. You can trust you are getting insights directly from our team.