Best of Moore 2011

Sunday, September 25, 2011

This August, we asked The Pilot’s readers tolet us know what they liked best about MooreCounty. In nearly 70 categories, ranging fromthe best barbecue (The Pik N Pig) to besthardware store (Burney’s Hardware Co.), ourreaders told us which restaurants, businessesand services are the best Moore County has tooffer.The response was tremendous. Hundreds of

ballots flooded into The Pilot’s office in responseto the Readers’ Choice Best of Moore County2011 contest, which was open to all readers ofthe newspaper.We thank our readers for helping us put

together this section that highlights the best ofour community. We thank our advertisers forcontinuing to support The Pilot.We also congratulate the winners. You’ve

worked hard to earn the title, so sit back, baskin the limelight and continue doing whatever itis that you’ve been doing. Obviously, our

readers think it’s working.The votes have been counted, the numbers

tallied and the readers have spoken. Followingare the businesses and categories that werevoted by readers of The Pilot as the best inMoore County for 2011.

Food and Drink PlacesBEST BREAKFASTMac’s Breakfast AnytimeWhether you get up early for breakfast or

choose to enjoy your sausage and eggs later inthe day, readers of The Pilot say Mac’sBreakfast Anytime continues to be the county’sbest place for breakfast. Served up fresh, hotand made-to-order, the breakfast menu at

PAGE 2 THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011

Pinehurst Parks and Recreation Department395 Magnolia Rd. • Village of Pinehurst • 910-295-2817

www.villageofpinehurst.orgparks&[email protected]

DOWNTOWN PINEHURST(Best Thing To Show Out Of Town Guests)

ANDCANNON PARK/CAMELOT PLAYGROUND

(Best Park)

“Best In Moore 2011”

ThanksMoore CountyFor Voting…

see BEST, page 3

The Votes Are In …Readers of The Pilot Select Moore County’s Best

HANNAH SHARPE/The Pilot

Readers of The Pilot say Robyn James and the folks at The WineCellar and Tasting Room offer the county’s best wine selection.

Mac’s Breakfast Anytime ranges from eggs andbacon to pancakes, grits and oatmeal withplenty of hot coffee to wash it all down.

RUNNERS-UP: Cracker Barrel • Sizzlin’Steak or Eggs

BEST HAMBURGERThe Squire’s PubWhat does an authentic British pub know

about the all-American favorite hamburger?Quite a bit, apparently. While the majority ofthe fare at Squire’s Pub features delights fromacross the pond, their Revolutionary Burgerreminds us why we fought to win ourindependence.

RUNNERS-UP: Cook Out • Beefeater’sRestaurant and Lounge

BEST ICE CREAMCold Stone CreameryI scream. You scream. We all scream for ice

cream, and readers know that if it has anythingto do with ice cream, it has everything to dowith Cold Stone Creamery. With unique icecream creations to smoothies, shakes andcakes, and flavors that range from vanillabean, chocolate and banana to bubble gum,

cake batter and cotton candy, it’s no wonderMoore County screams for Cold StoneCreamery’s ice cream.

RUNNERS-UP: Dairy Queen • The IceCream Parlor

BEST SWEET TEALedo PizzaIn a bit of an upset,

a newcomer hasunseeded a perennialwinner in this highlycompetitive category.Although Bojangles’version is referred toas “legendary,” LedoPizza is now the placeto go in the county toclinch one’s thirst for atruly sublime servingof the Southern-staplebeverage, accordingto The Pilot’s readers.While this pizzeriaspecializes in pasta,square pizza pies andchicken wings, it alsoclearly places someserious focus onserving up a consistently satisfying glass of ice-cold sweet tea.

RUNNERS-UP: McDonald’s • Bojangles

BEST CUP OF COFFEEStarbucksAccording to Wikipedia, coffee is a widely

consumed stimulant beverage prepared fromroasted seeds of the coffee plant, commonlycalled coffee beans. This basic definition of

coffee in no waydescribes theexperience of sippinga skinny vanilla latteor caramel macchiatofrom Starbucks. Votedthe home of thecounty’s best cup ofcoffee, Starbucksoffers an extensiveand sometimes exoticselection of coffees.Of course, for thepurists, one canalways enjoy a basiccup, black.

RUNNERS-UP:Mac’s BreakfastAnytime •McDonald’s

BEST PIZZALedo Pizza

When it comes to concocting the perfectblend of cheese, homemade dough andtomato sauce, there is a new sheriff in town.

With its square-style rolled crust and thickpepperoni, Ledo serves up a pie worthy to writehome about. As a result, it has won over thevoters’ taste buds this year, making it The Pilotreaders’ top choice for pizza in the county.Whether it’s to pick up up a large pie to sharewith the family at home or to savor the flavorwhile dining out on a date, Ledo is the smartbet. Oh, and don’t forget to wash it down withits 2011 “Best of” sweet tea.

RUNNERS-UP: Vito’s Ristorante and Pizzeria• Mellow Mushroom

BEST SALAD BARBeefeater’s Restaurant and LoungeNo trip to Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge

— the longtime downtown Southern Pines’dining institution — is considered completewithout at least one trip to its celebrated saladbar. With more tasty toppings and veggiechoices then you can shake a stick at, the onlyproblem may be deciding what to include inyour bowl and how to make it all fit and arrivesafely back to the table. Back at your table, youare certain to be satisfied as every selection onthe bar is fresh and of high quality. But, becareful or you may not have any roomremaining for the main course.

RUNNERS-UP: Ruby Tuesday Restaurant •The Lob Steer Inn

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011 THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. PAGE 3

The Pik-N-Pig familywould like to extendour sincere thanks toour loyal customerswho voted for usin the Best of Moorecontest. Yourcontinued supporthas made our businessmore successful thanwe dared to dream.

BestFrom Page 2

see BEST, page 4


Larry Russell, owner of Russell’s Seafoodand Southern Buffet, offers the best seniorspecial, according to readers of The Pilot.

THE PILOT — SOUTHERN PINES, N.C. SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011

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BEST DESSERTBeefeater’s Restaurant and LoungeThe menu at Beefeater’s Restaurant andLounge, voted by readers as the best dessert inMoore County, lists the delectable dessertchoices under the heading Sweet Thoughts.And, oh, how sweet it is! Mississippi fudge cake,lime sherbert, French silk pie, hot pecan pie,chocolate nut sundae, Grace’s homemadecoconut cream pie … need we go on? Therealso is a low-carb, low-sugar cheesecake forthose who want a bite of sweet without thecalories.

RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Ledo Pizza

BEST FRIED CHICKENKFCIt doesn’t matter how you fry it — KFC ofSouthern Pines is the winner for the best friedchicken for the sixth year in a row. Whether youprefer original recipe, extra crispy, grilled, legs,thighs, wings, breasts, chicken strips, barbecuesandwiches or some of their delicious homestylesides, readers of The Pilot say that nobody doesfried chicken better. The Colonel would beproud.

RUNNERS-UP: Lowes Foods • Smithfield’s

Chicken ’n Bar-B-Q

BEST BARBECUEThe Pik N PigThe Pik N Pig was voted as having thecounty’s best barbecue. Proving that it is allabout the meat, the barbecue at The Pik N Pigis hickory-smoked until it is melt-in-your-mouthtender. The wood-fired meat is extra juicy withan intense flavor that stands on its own.However, if you feel the need to add a bit ofsauce, The Pik N Pig has two types to choosefrom, a vinegar-based hot and spicy barbecuesauce and a tomato-based, honey barbecuesauce. But, before you squirt on the sauce, tastethe meat and discover for yourself why it wasvoted as the county’s best.

RUNNERS-UP: Smithfield’s Chicken ’n Bar-B-Q • Dickey’s Barbecue Pit

BEST STEAKSBeefeater’s Restaurant and LoungeWith a name like Beefeater’s, you can be surethey know a thing or two about beef. Accordingto the readers of The Pilot, Beefeater’sRestaurant and Lounge not only understandsbeef, but also has served up the county’s beststeaks six years running. The only tough thingyou’ll encounter at Beefeater’s is the decision oftrying to choose between the filet mignon, theribeye, the New York strip or the Beefeater’sbroil.

RUNNERS-UP: Outback Steakhouse • TheLob Steer Inn

BEST WINGSLedo PizzaSo the votes have been tallied, and LedoPizza has the best wings in the county this year,according to The Pilot’s voters. With three types,in plain, buffalo-style and barbecue, this pizzajoint located in Southern Pines has a wingchoice for everyone. No need to worry aboutany scrimping either, because Ledo Pizza’swings are well-known for their jumbo size.Should you go with barbecue and the saucehas some kick — relax ‚ Ledo’s sweet tea wasalso voted as the best in the county this yearand works as a quick and enjoyable way toquell the heat.

RUNNERS-UP: Hickory Tavern • Beefeater’sRestaurant and Lounge

BEST MEXICAN FOODSan Felipe Restaurante MexicanoThe colorful atmosphere and deliciousauthentic, homemade Mexican cuisine haveattracted a lot of attention from The Pilot’sreaders, who voted San Felipe RestauranteMexicano as the best Mexican restaurant inMoore County five years in a row. San Felipe’smenu features favorites like tacos, enchiladas,

BestFrom Page 3

see BEST, page 5

2011 BEST OF

MOORE COUNTY

CASH PRIZE WINNERSCongratulations to Martha Jack,of Pinehurst, and Phylis

McCrimmon, of Southern Pines.These lucky ladies were thewinners of the two $50 cashprizes awarded as part of the2011 Readers’ Choice

Best of Moore County contest.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2011 PAGE 5

burritos, fajitas, quesadillas and tamales, aswell as combination dinners and specialitydishes, all of which are served in a casualsetting that is suitable for the entire family.

RUNNERS-UP: Casa Garcia • CasaMexicana

BEST SEAFOODBonefish Grill

With a menu marked by its distinct assortmentof fish selections, Bonefish Grill offers the bestseafood in Moore County, according to ThePilot’s readers. With a wide variety of grilledspecialties that span the globe — from Alaskanhalibut to Norwegian trout — along withnumerous baked and sauteed items, therestaurant is sure to satisfy even the mostdiscerning of seafood lovers. All fish is marketfresh and comes prepared with one of severalsignature sauces. Other items include hand-held fare, soups and salads.

RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Shucker’s, Beefeater’sRestaurant and Lounge • Mama’s Kitchen

BEST ASIAN FOODThai Orchid

Readers say the best Asian food in Moore

County can be found at the family-owned ThaiOrchid. The authentic Thai menu includesspecialties like Bangkok chicken or duck, andhas three levels of heat: hot, spicy and Thai.You’ll need to cut the heat with a traditionalThai beer or a creamy, spiced Thai iced tea.And while we love the food, personally, it’s theswan-shaped carrots that always make ussmile.

RUNNERS-UP: China Buffet • Mt. FujiJapanese Steakhouse

BestFrom Page 4

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About This Issue:The Readers’ Choice Best of Moore County

section is published by The Pilot annually.

On the Cover:Golfers play Pinehurst No. 2. The

legendary course was voted by readers ofThe Pilot as the county’s best golf course.

Cover PhotographyHannah Sharpe

PhotographyHannah Sharpe and Glenn M. Sides

Cover and Supplement Design/LayoutMartha J. Henderson, Special Sections Editor

Special thanks to F.W. Manning II for his contributions to the section.

For advertising information, contact Pat Taylorat (910) 693-2505 or email [email protected]

145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387(910) 692-7271 • thepilot.com


Dave Whitney, owner of Mac’s BreakfastAnytime, flips some eggs on the grill.Mac’s once again earned the top spot asthe county’s best place for breakfast.


BEST ITALIAN FOODLedo PizzaNot only do The Pilot’s readers believe Ledo

Pizza has the county’s best pizza, wings andsweet tea, they also gave this popular SouthernPines restaurant the nod for having Moore’s topItalian food. Ledo Pizza offers all the classics likechicken parmesan, fettuccine alfredo, spaghettiand cheese tortellini. It also provides someinteresting twists on traditional dishes, such asthe “Tortellini Fresno” and “Ledo Lasagna.” Ontop of all that, the establishment also bakes aseriously satisfying calzone and stromboli.

RUNNERS-UP: Vito’s Ristorante and Pizzeria• Olive Garden

BEST BUFFETGolden CorralWhen you’re hungry for all-you-can-eat, head

to Golden Corral. With everything from steak,rotisserie chicken, fish and pork chops to sidedishes, fresh salad fixings, fruit, cookies, cakesand fresh-baked yeast rolls, Golden Corral hassomething for every palate with quantities large

BestFrom Page 5

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Although it’s the new kid on the block, Ledo Pizza made an impressive debut this year, winning top recognition in 10 Best ofcategories, including Best Sweet Tea, Best Pizza, Best Wings, Best Italian Food, Best Catering, Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant, BestFriendly Service, Best Lunch Under $10, Best Fast Lunch, Best All-Around Restaurant. Above, Lia Brazile serves up a meat lover’spizza, one of the more popular dishes at Ledo Pizza in Southern Pines.


enough to satisfy any size appetite. And withsuch a huge array of food choices, odds arethe Golden Corral buffet is not only the best inMoore County, but also the biggest.

RUNNERS-UP: Russell’s Seafood andSouthern Buffet • Mama’s Kitchen

BEST BAKERYBroad Street Bakery and Cafe

There is nothing quite like the taste of fresh-baked bread and pastry, and our readers saythe best place in Moore County to find thesedelicacies is Broad Street Bakery and Cafe.From bagels and pastries to sandwiches andcakes, Broad Street Bakery and Cafe is theplace to go.

RUNNERS-UP: The Bakehouse and Cafe •Panera Bread

BEST CATERINGLedo Pizza

Whether it’s a massive pizza party for anend-of-season sports banquet or a special fine-dining event, featuring quality, high-end Italiancuisine, readers of The Pilot say the county’sbest catering choice is Ledo Pizza. Theexpansive menu includes five “Italian Favorites,”

three salad choices, four sandwich platteroptions, five different appetizers, box lunchesand a brownie tray.

RUNNERS-UP: Talbert’s Catering • Jordan’sCatering

BEST FAST FOODWendy’s

Readers of The Pilot have chosen Wendy’s asthe best place for fast food in the county. With apromise that “quality” is their recipe, Wendy’spromises it uses the freshest premium toppingson burgers that are “never frozen,” but freshgrilled and cooked to order, customizable to thecustomers’ wishes. With famous staples on themenu, such as the “Single,” “Carolina Classic,”“Spicy Chicken Sandwich” and the “Frosty,” itseems people know exactly what to expectwhen they make their way to Wendy’s for fastfood and apparently they keep coming backagain and again for more.

RUNNERS-UP: Chick-fil-A • Cook Out

BEST COUNTRY-STYLE COOKINGCracker Barrel

Whether it’s buttermilk biscuits and gravy,meatloaf and mashed potatoes, corn muffinsand turnip greens or baked apple dumpling,Cracker Barrel has got the country-style cookingthe people of Moore County crave the most thisyear. As a result, The Pilot’s readers havechosen Cracker Barrel as the county’s best

place to go when the cravin’ hits for somecountry-style cooking. Be it breakfast, lunch ordinner, when it comes to capturing the down-home feel, taste and atmosphere — expectedto accompany delicious, country-style cookingat its best — Cracker Barrel seems to havenailed it.

RUNNERS-UP: The Pik N Pig • Russell’s

Seafood and Southern Buffet

BEST DELI/SANDWICH SHOPSubway

According to the readers of The Pilot, Subway

BestFrom Page 6

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Shoppers stroll down Broad Street in Southern Pines, which was once again chosenby readers of The Pilot as the county’s best community/town.


is this year’s best deli/sandwich shop in thecounty. At Subway, the service is fast, thebread and sandwich ingredients are fresh,and there is always a healthy variety of menuoptions to choose from. Not to be forgotten isthe $5 dollar foot long, including sevensandwich choices that will fill your stomachwithout emptying your wallet. Other menufavorites include the salads, cookies and hotsandwiches (e.g., meatball sub all-the-way.)

RUNNERS-UP: Panera Bread • Wedgies

BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANTLedo PizzaOne word, when uttered, that garners

(most) all kids’ attention is pizza. As thisyear’s “best of” winner in said category, it isnot too hard to understand why this year ThePilot’s readers have picked Ledo Pizza as thebest kid-friendly restaurant in the county. Witha kids’ menu that offers a wide array ofchoices, even the most finicky children shouldfind some acceptable dining option to order.Plus every option is served with a dessert treatand one side.

RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • (tie)McDonald’s, Chick-fil-A

BEST SENIOR SPECIALRussell’s Seafood and Southern BuffetBecause of the number of retired persons

who call Moore County home, many localrestaurants offer specials to attract the seniorclientele. With so many options to choosefrom, readers of The Pilot say Russell’sSeafood and Southern Buffet in SouthernPines has the best senior special in the county.The restaurant’s senior discount is availableto seniors 55 and over. A Sandhills tradition,Russell’s Seafood and Southern Buffet offersboth buffet and menu service, featuringseafood, barbecue and so much more.

RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Bojangles, Mac’sBreakfast Anytime • Golden Corral

BEST FRIENDLY SERVICELedo PizzaNotch yet another “Best of” win for Ledo

Pizza, as The Pilot’s readers have voted it ashaving the best friendly service. The staff atLedo Pizza is always attentive, pleasant andanxious to enhance your dining experience.Whether it is cleaning up a dropped drink,making sure orders are correct or simplyoffering a smile and warm welcome, theservers at this popular pizza parlor seeminglyalways go out of their way to be downrightnice.

RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Beefeater’sRestaurant and Lounge

BEST LUNCH UNDER $10Ledo PizzaThe Pilot’s readers have spoken and

according to their votes, Ledo Pizza has theBest Lunch Under $10 in the county. With aneight-inch personal pizza, 10-plussandwiches, calzones and much more tochoose from at lunch, all coming in under$10, it is easy to understand how the votingswung in favor of Ledo Pizza for thisparticular category.

RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • The LunchBox That Rocks

BEST FAST LUNCHLedo PizzaThe Pilot’s readers have named Ledo Pizza

as the best fast lunch in the county. If youhave a limited amount of time, yet still wantthis year’s “Best of” pizza, Italian food,friendly service and kid-friendly restaurant —as voted by The Pilot’s readers — then LedoPizza is the place for you. Tons of choicesconfront you, including several specialtypizzas, subs, ciabatta sandwiches, salads,calzones and stromboli. There are so manythat if you are really pressed for time, youmight want to sneak a peek at the menubeforehand.

RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Wendy’s

BEST ALL-AROUND RESTAURANTLedo PizzaLedo Pizza is much more than just a

pizzeria. It is also great place to bring the kidsand is capable of catering nearly any event.Ledo Pizza’s menu has a wide variety ofclassic Italian dishes, as well as calzones andstromboli. Also available to order are severalsubs, ciabattas and an array of appetizers.When you throw in its tasty sweet tea,reasonable pricing and friendly, fast service, itis no wonder that Ledo Pizza won this year’stitle of Moore County’s best all-aroundrestaurant.

RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub • Beefeater’sRestaurant and Lounge

BEST BEER SELECTIONHickory TavernThe Hickory Tavern is this year’s winner for

best beer selection, according to The Pilot’sreaders. With a craft beer, import beer, dis-covery beer and overall beer of the month,this place takes the brewed alcoholic bever-age quite seriously. Other regular spotlightspecials include a bartender’s choice of themonth and brewery spotlight of the month.The beer menu is almost too comprehensiveand detailed to grasp on your first visit.However, have no fear, you are bound to findyour old standby. Plus, Hickory Tavern cate-gorizes its brews into styles, including ales,ambers, fruits, stouts and lagers. The draftselection is impressive, as is the overall

BestFrom Page 7

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The friendly, helpful staff at The Country Bookshop, including Kimberly Daniels, manager,above, and the wide selection of fiction, nonfiction and children’s books available, as wellas the opportunity to meet authors and established writers, has once again earned theSandhills literary landmark recognition as the best bookstore in Moore County.


selection and Hickory Tavern has just addedmore than 30 beers to the mix.

RUNNERS-UP: Squire’s Pub; MellowMushroom

BEST WINE SELECTIONThe Wine Cellar and Tasting RoomIn addition to offering the best wine selection

in Moore County, The Wine Cellar and TastingRoom is a place to meet with friends, to buy(often at fire-sale prices) bottles of vino, or tofind out anything you ever wanted to knowabout the fruit of the vine.

RUNNERS-UP: The Barn • Squire’s Puband Restaurant

BEST MARGARITAChili’sAlthough this nationwide food franchise

might best be known for its baby back ribs,according to The Pilot’s readers, Chili’s mixesthe best margarita in Moore County. With sixtempting choices on the rocks and three flavorsof the frozen variety, it seems the possibilitiesinvolving this spirited concoction are endless atChili’s.

RUNNERS-UP: San Felipe Restaurante

Mexicano; Beefeater’s Restaurant and Lounge

About TownBEST LIVE ENTERTAINMENTHickory TavernFor the best live entertainment in Moore

County, The Pilot’s readers feel you get the mostdelight per dollar at Hickory Tavern. TheHickory Tavern has a large dining area, as wellas a spacious high-top section bar side. With ahuge list of beers and spirits on the drink menu,it provides the perfect environment to relax,unwind and enjoy good music and crowd-pleasing karaoke. Each Friday, the HickoryTavern brings in a DJ to start the night right andthat is followed by karaoke. Saturday night isfor booked bands with gigs starting near 10p.m.

RUNNERS-UP: Pure Gold • The JeffersonInn

BEST CLUBBroad Street Bar and GrillFor quite some time now, Broad Street Bar

and Grill has been a popular spot for itsmembers to hang out, after work and beforethey make their way home or just to check inwith friends and have a drink while finding outthe latest scuttlebutt. With an expansive patiosection outside, which includes a full sit-down

bar, along with billiards, darts, dancing andvideo games inside, Broad Street Bar and Grillhas been voted by readers of The Pilot as thisyear’s best club in Moore County.

RUNNERS-UP: Neville’s • PinehurstCountry Club

BEST BARHickory TavernTry to find a parking spot at Hickory Tavern

on a Saturday night — or a table for thatmatter — and you will get a sense of why ThePilot’s readers voted it as the best bar in thecounty. Any and every live sporting event youcould hope to see is shown live on one of thebar’s countless wide-screen televisions, makingit an ideal spot to follow your favorite home-town team in the big game. Maybe live enter-tainment is more your thing, or karaoke is whatyou dig the most; well, this place has both thosebases covered and more. With a stunning beerselection, a massive food menu and two outsidedining areas, it is clear the Hickory Tavern ismore than your everyday run-of-the-mill bar.

RUNNERS-UP: Neville’s • (tie) The Bell Tree,Squire’s Pub and Restaurant

BEST GOLF COURSEPinehurst No. 2In the golfing world, each golf course has its

own features that make it unique. Pinehurst No.2 is world-renowned for its design and

challenge. Many players consider it a privilegeto play the course, and many Moore Countiansconsider the legendary Pinehurst No. 2 the bestgolf course all around.

RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Pinehurst No. 4, LegacyGolf Links • Mid-Pines Inn and Golf Club

BEST ART GALLERYThe Artist Gallery of Southern Pines(Formerly Artist Alley)Voted the county’s best art gallery by readers

of The Pilot, The Artist Gallery of Southern Pinesshowcases affordable artwork created by NorthCarolina artists. The Artist Gallery of SouthernPines offers a wide range of works, from potteryto jewelry, painting to collage, sculpture toglass, in a casual and relaxed environment.

RUNNERS-UP: Broadhurst Gallery •Campbell House

BEST INN/HOTELThe Carolina HotelFrom sitting on a rocker on its gracious porch

or strolling its impeccable grounds to dining onhaute cuisine or planning a weekend getaway,the Carolina Hotel offers all of the charms of abygone era when elegance defined grandhotels. With its charm and hospitality, theQueen of the South welcomes with trueSouthern style, and Moore Countians voted the

BestFrom Page 8

see BEST, page 10

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RUNNERS-UP: Hampton Inn and Suites •The Jefferson Inn

BEST SCHOOLPinecrest High SchoolThe mission of Pinecrest High School is to

ensure its graduates are inquiring,knowledgeable, respectful and caring citizens ofa global community. As faculty and studentswork together to achieve this goal, readers ofThe Pilot acknowledged the goal by votingPinecrest High School as the county’s bestschool.

RUNNERS-UP: Sandhills CommunityCollege • Union Pines High School

BEST PUBLIC PARKCamelot Playground at Cannon ParkKids can let their imaginations run free at

Camelot Playground at Cannon Park. Whetherthey are playing at being King Arthur or aswashbuckling pirate, this playground is chock-full of swings, slides, tires and ropes for hoursof fun.

RUNNERS-UP: Reservoir Park • Downtown

Park in Southern Pines

BEST HALFWAY HOUSEPinehurst No. 6While secondary to any round of golf, a

halfway house with that certain mix of charm,convenience and class will stay in a player’smind long after a round in the same fashion awell-struck approach shot to a tightly guardedflagstick does. According to readers of The Pilot,the halfway house at Pinehurst No. 6 must haveperfected that important mixture because it wasvoted as the best halfway house in the county.With a small grill, conveniently located right atthe turn behind the ninth hole’s green, it pro-vides golfers with a well-needed breather as aplace to refuel before embarking on one of themost challenging back nines in the Sandhills.

RUNNERS-UP: Country Club of NorthCarolina • Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club

BEST COMMUNITY/TOWNSouthern PinesSouthern Pines is a wonderful little

cosmopolitan oasis surrounded by horse farmsand golf courses. Tree-lined streets, quainthomes and the marvelously eclectic and veryinteresting cross section of people who callSouthern Pines home all blend nicely, giving thetown its charm and character. That’s whyreaders of The Pilot once again voted SouthernPines as the county’s best community/town.

RUNNERS-UP: Pinehurst • Aberdeen

BEST THING TO SHOWOUT-OF-TOWN GUESTSDowntown PinehurstWhile Pinehurst is best known for its world-

class golf courses, locals know “the home ofAmerican golf” has so much more to offer,including a village center full of New Englandcharm and Southern hospitality, elegantaccommodations and historic homes, all nes-tled beneath majestic pine trees amid a quietand tranquil atmosphere. That’s why readers ofThe Pilot say the best thing to show out-of-townguests in the county is downtown Pinehurst.

RUNNERS-UP: Sandhills HorticulturalGardens • Downtown Southern Pines

ServicesBEST GROCERY STOREHarris TeeterHarris Teeter is more than just a

neighborhood food market — it’s been votedthe best grocery store in Moore County for itsfriendly service and great selections at just theright prices. Harris Teeter offers deli-cut meats,cheese, prepared meals and sandwiches in thedeli, a bakery filled with mousses, trifles, tortes,cakes and parfaits, and fresh-cut beef, chicken,pork and market-fresh seafood, along with

fresh seasonal produce from around thecountry.

RUNNERS-UP: Fresh Market • Lowes Food

BEST PRO SHOPThe Pro Shop at PinehurstThe customer service and outstanding

inventory of golf equipment offered by The ProShop at Pinehurst is what makes amateurplayers and touring pros alike return. They allknow they can rely on The Pro Shop atPinehurst to carry the latest golf clubs andequipment to help improve a weak swing, andto assist you in making the most of everyround. They’ve got what you need to lookstunning and play better than ever.

RUNNERS-UP: Robert’s Golf Shop •National Golf Club

BEST GOLF STORERobert’s Golf ShopFore! Robert’s Golf Shop in Aberdeen has

been voted the best golf shop in Moore Countyfor the sixth year in a row. In an area known forits predilection for golf, a golf shop must offerclubs, clothes and other equipment essential foravid golfers, and Robert’s Golf Shop has hitanother hole-in-one by offering everything golf.

RUNNERS-UP: Golf Augusta • The ProShop at Pinehurst

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BEST BOOKSTOREThe Country BookshopA literary landmark in the Sandhills for more

than 50 years, The Country Bookshop is one ofthe most successful independent bookstores inthe South. They offer a wide selection of fiction,nonfiction and children’s books, and theopportunity to meet authors and establishedwriters. And the friendly, knowledgeable staff isalways happy to special order any book youcan’t find in the shop.

RUNNERS-UP: Waldenbooks • Tucker Jo’sUsed Books

BEST NURSERY/LANDSCAPINGGulley’sWelcome to planet Gulley’s. Walk through its

park-like nursery and you’ll find almost everyform of flora you need for your yard and home.From simple ground cover to exotic floweringbushes, Gulley’s will help you make your yardthe best in your neighborhood. If gardeningisn’t your thing, Gulley’s offers professionallandscaping services to help you along. Anddon’t forget to stop in its Christmas shop,country store or military museum while you’rethere. With its variety and helpful service,

Gulley’s has been voted the best by readers fiveyears in a row.

RUNNERS-UP: Turfscape Designs • (three-way tie) McKenzie Landscaping and Farm,Etheridge Landscape and Design/GardenCenter, Town & Country LandscapeManagement

BEST HARDWAREBurney Hardware Co.Whether you’re looking for a hinge, a hasp

or a cast-iron stove, Burney Hardware Co. hasit, can get it or knows who makes it. And withsuch great service, it’s no wonder that The

Pilot’s readers voted Burney Hardware Co. thebest for the sixth year in a row.

RUNNERS-UP: Lowe’s Home ImprovementWarehouse • Seven Lakes Hardware andBuilding Supply

BEST PET STOREPetSmartYou can find something for all of your furred,

feathered, finned or scaled friends at PetSmart.You can even bring your pets along so they canpick out their very own toys and treats. And withgrooming services, excellent obedience trainingand veterinary care, it’s no wonder votersselected PetSmart as the best pet store five yearsin a row.

RUNNERS-UP: The Cared for Canine andCat • (tie) Robin’s Nest • Aberdeen Supply Co.

BEST BANKBB&TMoore Countians work hard for their money,

and they want to make sure it’s kept safe andsecure. Maybe their money’s security was whatreaders of The Pilot had in mind when theyvoted BB&T as the county’s best bank for thefifth year in a row. It could also be thecombination of friendly, helpful service and theavailability of a large selection of financialproducts and services, ranging from checking

BestFrom Page 10

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The Country Bookshop

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GLENN M. SIDES/The Pilot

The enthusiasm over Cracker Barrel’s much-anticipated opening in June continues asreaders of The Pilot voted the restaurant the county’s best for country-style cooking.


Kim Tucker, Owner

WEARETRULYHONOREDANDBLESSED

“Thank you”For voting us

The Best Jewelry StoreinMoore County forthe 2nd year in a rowThis would not have happenedwithout my wonderful staff and

my customers by my side.

119 Wicker St.Sanford, NC 27330(919) 774-4855

Mon.-Fri. 10-5:30 • Sat 10-2

4 Pinecrest PlazaSouthern Pines, NC 28387

(910) 692-8785Mon.-Sat. 10-7

San Felipe Mexican Restaurantwouldlike to thank all of the Moore Countycommunity that voted us best Mexicanrestaurant 5th year in a row. It's an

honor to be recognized by all the patronsof Moore County.Wewill continue

providing the greatest dining experienceso you can relaxwith family and friends,accompanied by friendly service and a

comfortable atmosphere.

ONCEAGAIN THANKYOUVERYMUCH!!!!

Authentic Mexican Food1840 N. Sandhills Blvd. (Hwy 1)

Aberdeen, NC910-693-2979

Open7 Days11AMthru10PM

CHOOSEANY OF THESEAPPETIZERSas a compliment

- JALAPENOS POPPERS

- NACHOS SUPREME

- FRESH GUACAMOLESALAD- CHORI QUESO- GUACAMOLE DIP- CHEESE DIP- BEEF OR CHICKENNACHOS

Some Restrictions May Apply

and savings accounts to loans, mortgages,investments and more for both personal andbusiness accounts, that helped earn BB&T thetop spot again.

RUNNERS-UP: First Bank • State EmployeesCredit Union

BEST DRY CLEANERSAmerican Cleaners

Dry cleaning keeps fabrics looking newlonger and extends the life of the garment.Whether it’s your favorite dress or blouse, yourhusband’s workshirts or your wedding dress,you don’t want to trust your dry cleaning to justanyone. According to readers of The Pilot,American Cleaners in Aberdeen is the best drycleaners in the county, which means this is whoMoore Countians trust to keep their best finerylooking its best.

RUNNERS-UP: The Valet Dry Cleaners •Olmsted Cleaners

BEST DAY CARE FACILITYIn Loving Arms

One of the toughest decisions facing parents

BestFrom Page 11


Ashley Mattingly plays with Jack Walker while his mother looks on at Camelot Playground in Pinehurst July 9. Mattingly andWalker’s mother, Allison, brought their children to the park to play and enjoy the shade. Camelot Playground at Cannon Park wasselected by readers of The Pilot as the county’s best park.see BEST, page 13


today is putting their child in day care. Findinga high-quality facility where your child feels safeand loved is just as daunting. Parents in MooreCounty know that In Loving Arms offers first-ratechild care, and voted it the county’s best.

RUNNERS-UP: Humpty Dumpty • KiddieKorner Day Care

BEST CAR WASHPar 3 Car Wash and Detail CenterPine trees and the Sandhills are beautiful, but

sticky sap, yellow pollen and gritty sand canwreak havoc on an automobile’s finish. Theremedy, according to those who voted, is a tripto Par 3 Car Wash and Detail Center. Par 3attendants work hard to make vehicles shinelike new again.

RUNNERS-UP: Champion Car Wash andDetail Center • (tie) Valvoline Express Care •PJ’s Auto Care

BEST FLORISTAberdeen Florist and Garden CenterAberdeen Florist and Garden Center, voted

best florist in the county, is a full-service florist.They can deliver flowers locally or send themout of town, design your perfect wedding deco-

rations, even give your yard a landscaping lift.For more than 30 years, Aberdeen Florist andGarden Center has offered a broad variety ofplants, garden ornaments, containers, soil andamendments suited to this area and to custom-ers’ individual tastes, whether they be minimal-ist, extravagant or somewhere in between.

RUNNERS-UP: Carmen’s Flower Boutique •Aldena Frye Floral Designs

BEST PHARMACYAberdeen Prescription ShoppeBeing sick or dealing with an injury or disease

can be stressful enough without the addedpressure of making sure your medications worktogether without creating any adverse reactions.From filling prescriptions to providing healthand wellness information and products, theAberdeen Prescription Shoppe is the county’sbest, according to readers of The Pilot. Theyknow they can rely on the friendly professionalstaff at the Aberdeen Prescription Shoppe to putthe well-being of its customers first.

RUNNERS-UP: Town Center Pharmacy •Walmart Supercenter Pharmacy

BEST BEAUTY SALONBamboo, A Boutique SalonAccording to readers of The Pilot, Bamboo, A

Boutique Salon is the best beauty salon inMoore County. Being one of four salons inNorth Carolina that carries the exclusive Oribe

hair care product line is not the only thing thatsets Bamboo apart from the rest. The Bambooexperience is a pleasing mixture of Southernhospitality and 21st-century style. Thededicated, involved and talented staff stays up-to-date on new styles, trends and techniques inorder to offer its diverse clientele a wide arrayof hair services while staying focused on eachclient’s needs.

RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Barbara’s Hair Team,Famous Hair • Bliss, A Salon Experience

BEST SPAThe Spa at PinehurstRelax the mind and body, rejuvenate and

invigorate the spirit, and pamper and delightyour senses at The Spa at Pinehurst. You’ll feelyour worries melt away as you enjoy any of the40 services this spa offers. After your service,plan on spending many hours relaxing in thehot tub or the steam rooms, or swimming in thepool. Voted Moore County’s best spa, the Spaat Pinehurst delivers what it promises: adelightfully pampering experience you’ll want torepeat.

RUNNERS-UP: Euro-Body Therapies •FirstSpa

BEST AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOPZwiebel’s Auto RepairOne thing that most people figure out as they

grow into adulthood is, once you find a quality

mechanic — one you can truly trust — youbetter darn well hang on to him. Zwiebel’s AutoRepair, voted by the The Pilot’s readers as thebest automotive shop in Moore County, is aplace where you will find plenty of trustworthymechanics. Located in Pinebluff, this longtimelocal garage has a large and loyal contingentof regular clientele who keep returning to resttheir automobile’s well-being in the capablehands of Zwiebel’s knowledgeable andprofessional staff.

RUNNERS-UP: Jason’s Tire and Auto •Bulloch’s Service Center

ShoppingBEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR ANTIQUESRussell’s Auction ServiceWhether you are searching for a specific

piece or just like to discover hidden treasures,Russell’s Auction Service in Seven Lakes is thebest place to shop for antiques in MooreCounty; so say readers of The Pilot. Since 1983,Russell’s Auction Service has offered anextensive and ever-changing inventory ofantiques, collectibles and fine furniture to thepublic and dealers through estate and tagsales, consignments and auctions.

RUNNERS-UP: Cameron • Medleyanna’s!

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Thank you, Moore County, for your continued patronage!

BEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR POTTERYSeagroveWhen it comes to purchasing the wares of the

area’s talented potters, The Pilot’s readers knowyou can’t limit yourself to one shop. That’s whythey voted Seagrove as the best place to shopfor pottery. With nearly a hundred potters in a25-mile radius, Seagrove is becoming knownas the pottery capital of the world. Not only canyou purchase outstanding pieces of pottery, butyou also can watch the potters at work.

RUNNERS-UP: Nichols Pottery Shop •Westmoore Pottery

BEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR APPLIANCESLowe’s Home Improvement WarehouseFrom cooktops, microwave ovens and ranges

to dishwashers, refrigerators, washers anddryers, Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouseoffers everyday low prices on the brands youknow and trust. The selection and serviceoffered by Lowe’s are so well known that it wasvoted by the readers of The Pilot as the best

place to shop for appliances for the sixth year ina row.

RUNNERS-UP: Kees Appliance Center •Sears

BEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR EYEWEARThe Vision Center at WalmartYou don’t need to have vision problems to

appreciate The Vision Center at Walmart. Witha wide selection of designer frames for men,women and children, sunglasses and eyeglassaccessories, as well as eye examinationsavailable by an independent doctor ofoptometry, it’s easy to see why readers of ThePilot voted the Vision Center at Walmart thebest place to shop for eyewear in the county.

RUNNERS-UP: Doctor’s Vision Center • EyeCare Associates

BEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR JEWELRYBrenda’s JewelersFor more than 30 years, Brenda’s Jewelers

has been one of the most trusted names injewelry in Moore County. Readers of The Pilotagree, voting Brenda’s Jewelers as the county’sbest place to shop for jewelry. For brilliantdiamonds, beautiful fine jewelry, elegantwatches, treasured gifts, custom-made styles

and expert jewelry repairs, Brenda’s Jewelershelps Moore Countians celebrate their specialoccasions.

RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Hawkins and Harkness,Fiskin & Fiskin, Inc. Jewelers • HoneycuttJewelers

BEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR MEN’S CLOTHESBelkWomen aren’t alone in taking pride in their

appearance. Today, men don’t just grab the firstthing off the rack. Men are taking an interest infashion and the latest trends, and The Pilotreaders voted Belk as the place to shop formen’s clothing. Whether they need to round outtheir work wardrobe, pick out a few golf shirtsor fill their closets with the latest trends, Belkmakes it a one-stop shop.

RUNNERS-UP: Ross Dress for Less •Gentlemen’s Corner

BEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR WOMEN’S CLOTHESBelkLooking good has never been so easy. Belk

has the season’s hottest looks in fashion andaccessories. Evening wear, career clothing, thelatest in trends or good old denim jeans are allfound at Belk. Staying on top of the latest

fashions is easy when it’s all there for you.That’s why readers voted Belk as the best placeto shop for women’s clothes.

RUNNERS-UP: T.J. Maxx • Ross Dress forLess

BEST PLACE TO SHOPFOR CHILDREN’S CLOTHESBelkWhether they’re dressing up, hanging out,

attending class or a big party, kids want to fit in.Voted the county’s best place to shop forchildren’s clothes, Belk carries the styles kidswant at the prices that parents loves. It’s a win-win situation.

RUNNERS-UP: Walmart • Ross Dress forLess

BEST PLACE FOR SHOESShoe CarnivalA new pair of shoes is always sure to bring a

smile to even the sullenest of faces. With a bevyof styles to choose from in women’s, men’s,kid’s, athletic and work categories, it’s a safebet that at Shoe Carnival — voted the bestplace for shoes in the county by readers of ThePilot — you will find exactly what you arelooking for and more when it comes tofashionably covering up your feet.

RUNNERS-UP: (tie) Belk, Rack Room Shoes• Shoe Show

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Best of Moore 2011

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