No Need To Panic Guys

An evening of shopping at Hadley Emerson has been designated just for guys. Be sure to mark this Thursday on his calendar. A scarf, jewelry or a special piece from Hadley's boutique is sure to captivate the most discriminating taste. 10% discount from 6-9pm. Free consultation and gift wrapping, beer and snacks.

New Fitness Studio @ East 54, Just In Time for Your New Year's Resolution

Now we have a way to work off all those incredibly delectable holiday treats and dinner aperitifs we've been having at East 54 restaurants.

Opening in February, Studio East 54 will be a unique boutique fitness studio that will revolutionize the way you work out. Take a Pilates class and get “red carpet” ready; take a Latin-dance-inspired Zumba class and burn 600 calories an hour; take a TRX Suspension Training class and train like a professional athlete; or take an Xtend Barre class and experience the latest trend in fitness with a pilates and dance infused workout. Studio East 54 will offer the most effective fitness routine with several workout options under one roof. Stay tuned for more details.

Dr. Charlie Finn, We're Proud to Know You

We've heard that our East 54 neighbor Dr. Charlie Finn of Finn Facial Plastics has been helping victims of domestic violence with cosmetic and reconstructive facial services. But Dr. Finn has never been one to boast. The good news was confirmed by an ABC11 Eyewitness News story on his participation in the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery's Face to Face Program. He says one of his biggest challenges is simply letting people know that he's here to help. We hope we're doing our part by spreading the good news. He now offers these services to wounded war veterans.

Find Your Happy Hour at Piola

Walk, Talk, Taste & Sip Your Way Through East 54 on a Triangle Food Tour

The original food tour of the area, Triangle Food Tours have announced that East 54 is the newest tour in this series of fun and informative culinary experiences. The tour is offered on November 6th.

On this leisurely, guided stroll you will get to know the area and each of our new restaurants. A couple of Glen Lennox restaurants are also included. You will be greeted at each eatery by an enthusiatic staff and teased with tempting samples of signature menu items.

Considering you'll be sampling from 6-8 culturally diverse and award-winning restaurants, it's the best culinary deal in town and probably one of the most coveted gifts for the holidays. Hint, hint. For more information, visit Triangle Food Tours or call 919-319-5674.

Environ Fair

Take A Tour of Parade of Homes Gold

Our virtual tour is the next best thing to being inside one of East 54's condominium homes. This two bedroom, two and a half bath, Parade of Homes Gold winner features floor to ceiling windows with a breathtaking view of Finley Golf Course. Special thanks to Nowells Contemporary Furniture for the furnishings and accessories.

Chapel Hill's Finest Visit The East 54 Plaza This Sunday

Join us on the plaza Sunday for the American Red Cross' Fire Prevention Week Fair, a public education event filled with activities for the entire family: turnout gear demonstration, fire trucks on display, Buddy the Bomb Sniffing Dog and police K-9 units. The event free to the public from 1-5pm. Streets Deli and Saffron Indian Cuisine will also be there.

Celebrate East 54's Grand Opening at Environ Fair

Big plans are in store and details are being secured for one of Chapel Hill's biggest parties. Environ Fair is East 54's grand opening celebration and might be the first time you'll ride in a hot air balloon. The event will be held on Sunday, October 24th from 3-6pm. The fair is free and open to the public.

Following the ribbon cutting ceremony at 3pm with the Town of Chapel Hill officials, the East 54 plaza will come alive with activities: free hot air balloon rides, classic cars on display, live music from the Nomads, the Kerr Drug’s Kids’ Zone, street performers and complementary restaurant samples from Saffron, Piola, Archira and Streets Deli. Its simply the perfect opportunity to show off what's great here East 54. Over 30 prizes from our merchants will be given away. You've seen it from the outside, now you must see it inside!

Parade of Homes Starts This Weekend

If you haven't seen a residential condominium at East 54, here's your chance. We're opening our doors this weekend for the Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties' Parade of Homes. We're hoping that the judges will give us a gold award two years in a row. The condominium home featured this year is a two bedroom, two and a half bath with stunning views of Finley Golf Course Road. Parade of Homes is the first three weekends in October: 2 & 3, 8, 9 & 10; 15, 16 & 17; from noon to 5pm each day. Call Gary or Julie for more information. 969-1154

Chapel Hill Artist Judy Bauman Now at Piola

In a delightful effort at creating a great local art gallery restaurant scene, Piola is now exhibiting "A Feeling of Europe", paintings by Judy Bauman, as a part of a regular series titled 'Art Inside Piola'. A reception in the eatery is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 7th from 6-9pm.

Grand Re-Opening of Chocolaterie Stam Brings UNC Women's Soccer to East 54

This Friday Chocolaterie Stam is celebrating the Grand Re-opening of their new location here at East 54. Owner Bob Droog has organized a street soccer match between ex-UNC woman's soccer pro's, under the leadership of Carolina Head Coach Anson Dorrance, vs. selection of Rainbow soccer players representing Chocolaterie Stam playing as the semi-Dutch national Team. It's sure to be a lot of fun. The ribbon cutting ceremony begins at 5:30 and the game starts at 6. While they are in the plaza playing soccer, I will be in the store sneaking chocolate and gelato ;)

John Cowan Friday on the Plaza

Just little ditty to get you warmed up for John Cowan this Friday on the Plaza. The show starts at 7pm. Bring a chair and enjoy!

Jocelyn Arem on the Plaza this Thursday

So you like Joni Mitchell? Sarah McLachlan? Nora Jones? Dido? Then you will love Thursday's concert on the plaza with Jocelyn Arem. Be here at 5:40 and bring a chair. Food and drinks from Saffron and Streets Deli. Our concert series is brought you to in partnership with the cultural heartbeat of the Triangle, the ArtsCenter. No coolers please.

Lunch at Archira Thai and Sushi

What did you have for lunch today? I had the most unbelievable, buttery sushi and spicy noodles at Archira. Freshly prepared and spiced to perfection. There are nine items at $9 offered for lunch. I wonder if others like to document their food escapades the way that I do.

Summer Blowout Sale @ Hadley Emerson

Hadley has all of your favorite eye-catching looks --from the classics to the trendy -- now at eye-catching prices! $25, $50 and 60% off, starting Friday at 10am.

Thai and Sushi. Here and Now. Archira Now Open!

After 30 years in the US and four restaurants in the Washington DC area and Cary, Thai native Sandy Mason has opened Archira Thai and Sushi. Archira offers a menu of unique takes on Thai and Japanese cuisine in a sleek and contemporary setting.

“We’re excited to be a part of East 54, and we think our architects and designers have done a great job of giving us a unique look and feel in keeping with East 54’s approach”, says Mason. So that the cuisine is of the highest quality and faithful to its origins, Sandy has also hired key members of the kitchen staff directly from Thailand.

Archira is one of three new restaurants now open at East 54 along with Piola and Saffron Indian Cuisine.

Get Ready to Rock with the Moaners Thursday

The Moaners will be on the plaza for Thursday's 5:40 Summer Music Concert. They are often compared to the The White Stripes, as they are also a two-piece band that likes to rock out with a bluesy style. Formed in 2004 by guitarist Melissa Swingle, of indie band Trailer Bride, and drummer Laura King, formerly of the Chapel Hill band Grand National. Like all 5:40 shows, we are FREE and open to the public. Bring a chair and an appetite. Saffron Indian Cuisine and Streets Deli will be there.

What's the #1 Recommended Hotel in Chapel Hill by TripAdvisor.com? Aloft!

"best hotel I've been to." 8/10/2010

"WONDERFUL HOTEL" 7/30/2010

"5 nights stay at Aloft and loved everything about it" 7/23/2010

See what other travelers say about Aloft.

Folk-Pop Group Birds and Arrows Thursday Night

Come out Thursday night for another FREE concert this week featuring Birds and Arrows. Guitar-drums duo Andrea and Pete Connolly are a harmony-rich, pop/folk husband and wife team. They just released their first full length record STARMAKER at the end of 2009 and have been working hard on winning the hearts of listeners with their catchy, texture-rich folk-indie-pop tunes. They are joined by their friend Josh Starmer on cello. As always, Saffron Indian Cuisine and Streets Deli will be there too.

Follow Streets Deli and Get Hungry

Our favorite foodie friend Greg from Streets Deli told us his website is live. Now you can join a growing list of fans who will receive updates on the opening of the first NY style deli of it's kind in Chapel Hill. Coming soon to East 54 in the fall.

Justin Timberlake at fab'rik

Okay, that might be a stretch. But JT's denim line, William Rast is here at fab'rik. The new legging in grey and dark denim just arrived and it's sure to go fast.

We Got Hammered Last Night

We're still recovering from getting hit last night by the Hammer. Check out the photos from last night's show with Hammer No More the Fingers. In two weeks, July 29th, we welcome Birds and Arrows.

Experience The Hammer Jammer Tonight

If you know our local music scene, you know just how deep the talent pool is around these parts. And if you don't know, our 5:40 Summer Music Series is a fine opportunity to bring yourself up to speed. Tonight's band, Hammer No More the Fingers, will be on the East 54 plaza at 5:40 pm. The sound is straight up, quirky, indie rock influenced by The Pixies, Red Hot Chili Peppers, They Might Be Giants, and Nirvana. Check out a video from their latest LP Looking for Bruce and read what people are saying. Tonights show is the first in an 18-city tour for Hammer.

All 5:40 concerts are FREE and start at 5:40p.m.. Bring a chair. Food and libations provided by Saffron Indian Restaurant and Streets Deli.

Chocolaterie Stam Sign Goes Up

The next time you pass us on Highway 54, check out the new Stam Chocolaterie sign and imagine savoring gourmet chocolate and sweet, homemade gelato. Look for an announcement soon about a late July/early August opening.

Grab Your Girlfriends for Chapel Hill Magazine's Girl's Night Out

Ladies: need a guilt-free girls' night out to indulge yourself? Looking for fun and pampering with manicures, pedicures, facials and....shopping?! Join us Wednesday, July 14 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. for Chapel Hill Magazine's Girls' Night Out, featuring services and shopping from East 54's Citrine Salon, Neo Nails, Hadley Emerson and fab'rik. Enjoy that 15% of all sales this evening will benefit the Family Violence Prevention Center of Orange County. Nothing picks a gal up like a little retail therapy and a combo mani-pedi.

Patriotism Lives at East 54

Congratulations to Mark C. Cramer, President of the Institute for Defense and Business (IDB). Mark was presented the Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award this weekend. The ESGR Patriot Award recognizes employers who are especially supportive and understanding of their employee's service in the National Guard. IDB employee and North Carolina National Guard (NCNG) member, Staff Sergeant Jason M. Barber, nominated Cramer for this award. The Institute for Defense and Business was one of East 54's first office tenants.

We're LUCKY in More Ways Than One

Last night it all came together for us. The weather was gorgeous, the band was amazing, the food and drink was plentiful and the crowd was large and enthusiastic! Thanks to all our fans who came out for a perfect Carolina summer night.

See photos of Katharine Whalen's LUCKY on our plaza and save the date for our next show, Hammer No More the Fingers on July 15th at 5:40. Tell everyone that all shows are free and open to the public.

Katharine Whalen FREE Concert Thursday

Chapel Hill sighs a collective "phew" as cooler temps welcome Katharine Whalen's Lucky tomorrow night's for East 54's 5:40 Summer Concert. Best known for her work as the frontwoman for 90s swing band Squirrel Nut Zippers, Whalen’s Lucky is Americana-rock, thick with surf tones and four-part harmonies.

The ArtsCenter and East 54 partner to bring the best local music to the plaza stage every other Thursday night for East 54's 5:40 Summer Music Series. FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Bring a chair and your appetite, but please leave your coolers at home. Streets Deli offers NY corned beef Reuben wraps and Carolina-style hot dogs. Saffron Indian Cuisine will also be offering special chicken tikka marsala, rice, mixed veggies, and naan. Plus fat tire and wine. All shows start at 5:40 p.m.

Happy Hour At Hadley Emerson Thursday

Hadley Emerson has this terrific idea to have a Happy Hour during tomorrow's 5:40 Summer Music Series Concert. Check out the great selection of ladies clothing and take 10% off your purchase between 2-7pm.

Latin Jazz Comes to East 54 This Thursday

I'm brushing up on this Thursday's concert and learned that Guillo Carias' resume reveals some impressive brushes with old school jazz fame: Sammy Davis, Jr., Dave Brubeck, Celia Cruz and Chuck Mangione to name a few. The latin-jazz bandleader has even played with one of New York's original Mambo Kings, Tito Rodriguez. The Guillo Carias Trio is just one of many diverse and eclectic shows you'll see this here at the 5:40 Summer Music Series. Join us after work Thursday.

Thursday's Concert Postponed to June 10th

Of course the summer evenings are bound to unstable weather patterns, but tomorrow night looks particularly bad. So Tess from the Artscenterand I have decided to postpone Jonathan Byrd's show to next Thursday, June 10th. Think positive: Think clear skies with a chance of chilling and enjoying some great local music.

Impressions of Saffron from Chapel Hill Magazine

Initial reviews of Saffron from the foodies at Chapel Hill Magazine are quite favorable. Here's what Andrea had to say.

Archira Thai and Sushi Coming Next Month

I was pleasantly surprised to see this new sign in the East 54 plaza. Archira Thai and Sushi has has been under construction for a couple of months now. The sign is a reminder that it won't be too long until I'm at the sushi bar requesting a saki with my spider roll. We're expecting a mid-July opening.

Saffron Opens Wednesday for Dinner

After much anticipation, Saffron Indian Cuisine will be opening this Wednesday at 5pm! Do your homework ahead of time and check out the dinner menu.

A Perfect Night for the 5:40 Summer Music Series

Emerging from three days of rain and cloudy skies, both the sun and an enthusiatic crowd came out yesterday to the East 54 plaza. Our first show of the 5:40 Summer Music Series featured local troubadour, Joe Romeo & The Orange County Volunteers. We were elated to have so many friends and fans this first time out and are reminded of how fortunate we are to have such a vibrant and supportive local music scene in Chapel Hill.

I heard from everyone that they are looking forward to coming out for the next show with the Jonathan Byrd Band on June 3rd.

These great photos are by Jed Gammon Photography.

Hadley Emerson Boutique featured on ABC11

I imagine that if I could steal a look inside Hadley's closet, it would look just like her boutique: a completely approachable mix of modern classics with trendy, fresh pieces. Pieces that get attention without shouting. She's now carrying Sweetie Pie jewelry, a local designer now sought out by Hollywood celebs. Congrats to Hadley for being featured in this piece about Sweetie Pie jewelry on ABC 11 this weekend.

WXYZ Lounge at Aloft Hotel

We had a great time welcoming Aloft to the neighborhood last night.

Spring Sale at fab'rik Friday

Today you'll find me at fab'rik, where they will be having a huge spring sale. 60% off already reduced styles; denim, shoes and accessories. Paige tells me that they are adding tons of clothing to the sale rack at 40% off. It's one more reason to be happy it's Friday.

fab'rik Featured Fan Contest

fab'rik has a fun contest going on now through May 2nd. Put on one of your favorite fab'rik outfits, take a pic and email here for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate. (don't let the Raleigh email address confuse you...with multiple locations, this contest also includes fab'rik at East 54).

You should also "like" fab'rik Chapel Hill on facebook to stay up to date on upcoming events and promotions.

Kerr Talks Diabetes

Many informative health-related events happen every day at Kerr Drug, but tomorrow night is something unique for those managing diabetes. Jason Sloane, a A1C Champion will be in the store for a special session on lifestyle management; sharing his own personal experiences and insights. "Taking Control" @ Kerr Drug 6:30-7:30p.

More Economic Good News

I promised myself that I would not be blogging about real estate here. Afterall, we've created a place has that has quickly emerged from a realty firm to a pedestrian friendly hub of commerce and community events.

But I can't help but brag that we've sold three homes in the last 30 days. Things are looking great from here...and it's not just the Finley Golf Course views.

Aloft Signs Mark Anticipated Opening

Check out the new marquee signs at Aloft! It's refreshing to see Chapel Hill's architectural landscape changing; the Highway 54 corridor into town marked by this bold statement on our town's progressive personality.

Aloft is now taking reservations for graduation weekend.

Photos of UNC Block Party for Boys and Girls Club

Coffee and Chocolates coming to East 54

Great news! We've been eagerly anticipating a specialty coffee shop at East 54 and we're happy to announce the intention of Chocolaterie Stam opening this summer. Some of you have visited Stam at Chapel Hill North. Coffee and chocolate in one location? Now you're talkin'!

Carolina Stars and NFL Celebs Coming to East 54

Dre Bly, one of UNC's greatest football alumni will host UNC's Spring Game Block Party at East 54 next Saturday, April 10th. The party, which raises funds or the Boys and Girls Club of Chapel Hill, will also host all UNC letterman, former and current NFL players.

Fun for the whole family with raffles, auctions, prizes, food and music. Sleeping Booty starts at six. Come over after the game.

Fabulous Finds at fab'rik

I'm not the most fashionable person in Chapel Hill, but I try to pay attention to trends and I'm not afraid to try something a little different. I love fab'rik because they help me look current without breaking the bank. I bought four shirts for about $120. Hip clothing, shoes and accessories (and a huge denim collection) are available in bright spring colors. Maybe you've seen them in Cameron Village. We're delighted they've come to East 54.

Hadley Emerson gets her sign!

Congratulations to Hadley Emerson for successfully navigating the peak and valleys of the Town of Chapel Hill's sign ordinance process. You can now see the boutique from Highway 54.