DoRaleighRaleigh News and Notes From Last Week Openings, Closings, Jobs and Community Highlights
If you’re trying to keep up with everything happening across Raleigh, you’re not alone. From restaurant openings and closings to community milestones, airport updates, and local wins, here’s a quick roundup of Raleigh news and notes from last week—all in one place.
Liberation Station Reopens on Hill Street
Liberation Station Bookstore, North Carolina’s first Black-owned children’s bookstore, celebrated its grand reopening Monday on Hill Street in Raleigh. The event drew a large and supportive crowd, highlighting the community’s continued commitment to literacy, representation, and small businesses.
Supporters can donate through the bookstore’s GoFundMe or join its membership program to help sustain operations. (CBS17)
New Rotating Sushi Bar Coming to Northeast Raleigh
Raleigh’s sushi scene is expanding. Shinjuku Station, known for its rotating sushi bar, is set to open at Capital Marketplace in northeast Raleigh. This will be the brand’s second North Carolina location, joining High Point, with additional locations planned statewide.
The menu will feature nigiri, specialty rolls, and classic sushi favorites. (Triangle Business Journal)
Recycle Your Christmas Tree Through January
Give your holiday tree a second life. Wake County Parks is accepting undecorated Christmas trees for mulching through January 31. Trees can be dropped off at designated park locations throughout Wake County.
Restaurant Comebacks to Watch in 2026
Who’s making a return to Raleigh’s dining scene? Several longtime favorites are planning comebacks, including 42nd Street Oyster Bar and other beloved local establishments.
Triangle Business Journal recently published a roundup of the most anticipated restaurant comebacks heading into 2026—and it’s shaping up to be a strong year for Raleigh food lovers. (Triangle Business Journal)
240,000+ Jobs Available on Our Job Board
Looking for a new opportunity in 2026? There are 240,000+ active job listings right now on our Job Board, with openings across healthcare, education, manufacturing, tech, and more.
Roles are available for all experience levels—now’s a great time to explore what’s next in your career.
RDU Airport Parking Changes Begin January 2
Raleigh-Durham International Airport is making changes to on-site parking. The Park Economy 4 lot will close to travelers starting January 2, 2026, and will become employee-only parking.
Travelers can use other on-airport options, including the expanding Economy 3 lot, which will add new spaces, shuttles, and EV chargers. Reservations are encouraged via ParkRDU.com before traveling.
Beasley’s Chicken + Honey Announces Closing Date
Another downtown staple is saying goodbye. Beasley’s Chicken + Honey will close its doors on South Wilmington Street on Sunday, January 25.
Open since 2011, the restaurant has long been a go-to lunch spot and gathering place in downtown Raleigh. Chef and owner Ashley Christensen plans to focus on other restaurants in her portfolio, including Poole’s and Death & Taxes.
Cary Duo Wins Big at National Gingerbread Competition
A Cary mother-daughter team brought home major honors at the National Gingerbread House Competition in Asheville.
Heather Nadeau earned second place in the adult category, while her 11-year-old daughter, Bailey, took first place in the youth division—an impressive showing for Wake County talent. (WRAL)
Zest Cafe & Home Art Permanently Closes
After nearly three decades in business, Zest Cafe and Home Art has permanently closed. The North Raleigh staple, open since 1995, cited ongoing pandemic impacts and rising costs.
A closing sale is scheduled for January 6, and many Raleigh residents have shared memories and well-wishes following the announcement.
Stay in the Loop With DoRaleigh News
From neighborhood milestones to business openings and major closures, Raleigh continues to evolve week by week. Check back often for more Raleigh news, notes, and local updates you won’t want to miss.
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