I am not a huge restaurant person.  Being a vegetarian, and a darn good cook, I find very few restaurants  that meet my standards.  There is one such place near my office, Zest Cafe and Home Art, located in the shopping plaza at Six Forks and Strickland in Raleigh.  From the moment you arrive, it is a delightful experience.  The Cafe is marked by a fence in the shape of forks, knives, and spoons.  Their menu changes with the seasons, and there is always something delightful to choose from, whether you are a vegetarian or a meat-eater. 

Their salads are delicious, and their Mediterranian “pizzesta” is an experience every mouth should have at least once in their life.  I can almost guarantee that you will want to go back.

And if you’re looking for something to add a little zest to your home for a special party, check out their little store…there are some truly unique items.

A few miles north of my office on Six Forks Road in Raleigh,  a delighful new shop recently opened up, named When Pigz Fly.  They offer work created by local artists, on consignment.  Jewely, scuplture, pottery, watercolors, and more can be found in this eclectic little shop.  I am considering selling my hand-woven rayon chenille scarves there. 

You can’t miss the place…when heading North on Six Forks, it is a few miles past 540 on the left hand side.  The building is brightly painted, and there is a lovely little area at the back that looks like you would want to hang out there with a cup of tea and a good book.

If you are looking for a nice, unique gift, or want to treat yourself to something original, stop in.  You’ll be glad you did.

I am thrilled to see that there are signs to bring Whole Foods to North Raleigh, near the intersection of Six Forks and Strickland, which is only two blocks from where I practice Massage Therapy.  

Being a vegetarian who chooses to eat fresh, organic food, Whole Foods is my  number one choice for shopping.  Unfortunately, I find it difficult to squeeze in a trip to the one that is located on Wade Avenue, 10 miles south of my office, given that I live 25 miles north of my practice. To go to the current store takes me at least 2 hours with drive time if I go from the office.  It is often much easier to swing into one of the current local grocery options, even if the organic selection is slim and the produce is not as fresh. 

I would experience near  eternal bliss if there was a Whole Foods so close to where I practice.  If you support the effort, go to http://www.bringwholefoods.org  and sign the petition.