Lewis' Day Trip To Chapel Hill!

I just had the best day meandering through Chapel Hill! My objective: Shaded outdoor spots, tasty bites and refreshing cold drinks.  

I started my afternoon at The Siena Hotel. Located on Franklin Street before you enter downtown, this spacious, wooded spot still manages to feel tucked away from the world. That said, its restaurant, Il Palio, is a Chapel Hill institution with incredible Italian food. I found a cozy spot under the pergola to enjoy Crostini and a Blackberry Bramble mocktail. FYI, many of Il Palio’s craft cocktails can be made into refreshing “boozeless” drinks perfect for these hot summer days! Note to self: Return to The Siena soon for an Italian staycation. I’ve heard there’s nothing better than enjoying dinner on Il Palio’s cobblestone patio, then “riding the elevator home” to your beautiful Tuscan suite. 

Next on my list was a coffee shop you must visit when in the area! Caffé Driade is less than half a mile down the road from The Siena. The Town of Chapel Hill is full of trails and greenways, so keep in mind that this quick trip would make a beautiful walk on Bolin Creek Greenway! Set back from the road in a beautiful wooded area, there’s always plenty of outdoor seating to choose from at Driade. Their Sparkling Cold Brew made for a refreshing pick-me-up. 

I can’t visit Chapel Hill without spending time in the heart of downtown. For authentic Indian food, it doesn’t get better than Chimney Indian Kitchen. It’s also on Franklin Street, but in a location where parking is easier to come by than usual. I took advantage of their patio seating (with crucial umbrellas for shade) and enjoyed people watching, Paneer Butter Masala and a Jal Jeera Mojito. (This is my favorite cocktail around so don’t leave Chapel Hill without trying it!)

After my Indian feast, I headed into Carrboro to end my night on a sweet note. I relaxed on Coronato’s covered patio while dining on delicious Italian desserts. An order of Tiramisu, three Cannoli and a Limoncello Spritz hit the spot. Pro tip: whether you’re dining on the patio or ordering takeout, take advantage of Coronato’s Pizza Pantry! Chef Teddy’s incredible pizza toppings are available for purchase, like Calabrian Hot Pepper Oil, Coronato Pizza Dust, and their house extra virgin olive oil. I left with one of each. 

Keep these spots in mind when you plan your next visit to Chapel Hill! To explore even more unique locally owned destinations, make it a weekend trip with The Siena Hotel as your luxurious home base.