Foodies interested in exploring the area for the latest spots, several new small business eatery options in Chatham County opened in the last year. Try the sit-down restaurants in Siler City, three new eateries in Pittsboro along with a dessert shop, and a third location for Al’s Burger Shack in Chapel Hill at Governors Village.
Starting in Siler City, Whiskey Barrel Café opened in September in the previous Artisan 
hub location. Courtney Machowicz and her husband purchased the property and provide fresh, Southern fare food. Items are made to order, potatoes are cut daily, and the restaurant strives to source their food from local farms. They serve breakfast and lunch, while a brunch menu is also available all day Saturday and Sunday. Also new to Siler City are Nericcio’s Family Restaurant, which serves breakfast all day, Italian subs, burgers, and more.
Michoacan Mexican Grill opened in Pittsboro in August and this popular eatery started as a food truck in the area serving a number of items, including fresh guacamole, shrimp tacos, and tamales. They still offer these favorites plus many more authentic Mexican specialties. They even boast a fabulous outside patio to enjoy both the food and the drink specials available regularly. Also open in Pittsboro in Penguin Place is the popular Mexican chain, Mi Cancun.
Copeland Springs Farm & Kitchen has expanded to include a kitchen 
located on the certified naturally grown farm. Kristin Bulpitt, farmer and founder, serves satisfying and nourishing food with ingredients from her farm as well as others in the area. The menu changes monthly; however, some of the regular offerings include salads, Thai Bowl, and Root Veggie Bowl. Order at the counter and enjoy your fresh food anywhere on the 17-acre campus at The Plant, which is also home to Fair Game Beverage Company, Chatham Cider Works, and Starrlight Mead. 
Downtown Pittsboro welcomed Carolina Cravings, perfect for dessert, in the Phoenix Bakery’s former location, and considered a ‘cousin business’ by Phoenix Bakery. They opened in June and this sweet shop has display cases filled with homemade fudge, candies, French Macarons, and other tasty treats. They are a family-owned business and use family recipes to make many of their sweet desserts.
Another new establishment that opened in the past year is Al’s Burger Shack in 
Governors Village, the third location for this popular eatery, serving burgers, hot dogs, and shakes. They strive to use local ingredients including all-natural, hormone- and antibiotic-free beef from North Carolina pasture-raised cattle, and North Carolina craft beers. Vegetarian options, such as a tasty cauliflower or sweet potato and black bean burger, are also available.
The new eateries in Chatham County appeal to foodies; the chefs provide many opportunities for seasonal dining and new experiences. Visit them all as you explore our area for the day or a getaway.
