Fayetteville, NC (Fort Bragg, NC)

I have been living in Fayetteville for almost 2 years, and although at the beginning I considered it a total depression to live in, I can say that I found a little bit of love for this place.  I found a great job and lately I have been discovering my favorite spots.  Before I begin let me say that Fayetteville, NC is a small town (the only big part would be Fort Bragg which is the base); so being a small town there is not much to do.

So for those ladies that their spouse might be getting stationed at Fort Bragg, or for those that are new to Fayetteville or simply just are passing by I would love to share a list of all my favorite local restaurants, and places that I enjoy going. 

Amusement & Museums

Cameo Art House - This is a small theater and it only has about two or three movies.  But you can indulge in some drinks like beer and wine and enjoy it while watching your movie. 

Airborne and Special Operations Museum - From the displays outside the museum, walking through the historical path of airborne and special ops engagements, this place is just amazing.  You are able to tour the wars chronologically where you will find lots of pictures to see, things to read, and really cool replicas as well as plenty of actual equipment to look at! There is a simulator there that is supposed to simulate taking off and jumping out of a helicopter.  There is also a gift shop with lots of goodies available. They have some sort of simulator on site as well.  Best part it is free.

ZipQuest Waterfall Treetop Adventure - You can do a day time or night time tour and believe me both are amazing. Price is totally worth it.

 Restaurants

Marquis Market - Great for breakfast and brunch one of the best tasting sandwiches I have eating so far. They are dedicated in finding and bringing to market the most exciting, authentic, and delicious  coffees in the world.  I am in love with there coffees and teas.

Marybill’s Cafe & Elbow Room - Wonderful establishment for breakfast and brunch, service was excellent, food was very good.  The restaurant is on the corner of the building, therefore it’s a little difficult to find.

Habana Cuban Restaurant - I went in to grab lunch with some girlfriends and had “Ropa Vieja”. OMG I was impressed with the small intimate spot. Very clean restaurant and the staff extremely friendly.
 
Luigi’s - Luigi's peppercorn steak is to die for. Add a side order of linguine with alfredo sauce, a salad, bread with olive oil and a nice bottle of merlot and you have the perfect meal. One of my favorite meals in Fayetteville if not my favorite. Makes me hungry just writing about it. 

SakuraRestaurant - Although it is not situated in a centric location it’s by far my favorite place to eat sushi.  You have the most friendliest people working there.  

Caribbean Restaurant – When I first moved here I was bummed because there was no Puerto Rican restaurant and when my husband a couple of months ago called me excited letting me know there was actually one in Fayetteville I was eager to try it out.  I missed a well done mofongo and when I ate mine I felt as if I was in Puerto Rico.  Tastey authentic food with the most friendliest people working there.

Circa 1800 – Located in the downtown area of Fayetteville. The parking situation isn't great but the atmosphere and food make up for that.

La Fogata - It’s a Colombian restaurant located at McPherson Road.  I tried it once with my friend Danielle.  I’m not Colombian therefore I found the food very good, but some of my Colombian friends don’t think the same.  But if you’re interested in trying something Hispanic I would recommend it.

El Salvador Restaurant - The name is self explanatory, its Salvadorian food and once again me being Puerto Rican I totally loved it.  There pupusas are delish.

 Bar/Food

Luigi’s - As far as restaurants go in Fayetteville, Luigi's has the best wine selection in town and will often carry bottles you wouldn't find in ABC or Harris Teeter.  They require that all of their waiters and bartenders attend a wine course so they can have a baseline palette that they encourage them to continue to develop.  Bottom line is that even their bus boys can deftly pair your meal with a great wine.

MAC’s Speed Shop - Great sports pub environment even though it is listed as a "biker bar."  Great place for a beer, a quick bite, and great atmosphere. And for those that don't like beer, they have a great selection of liquor and wine. 

Huske Hardware House - Beer selection is awesome.  During the day you can have lunch in the weekends it is more of a sports bar atmosphere. 

Bubba’s 33 - My favorite sports bar/ restaurant in Fayetteville. Lots of TVs and good music. Large bar area. The burgers & pizzas are super yummy! They have a great selection of beer in draft and bottled.

There are so many different restaurants that are still on my list for tryouts. 

Dance

Club Barcelona - Club Barcelona is BEAUTIFUL. Super spacious and classy decor you wouldn't expect. Unfortunately it doesn't get full unless there is some type of events.  When events are held it is very good to go.  And from what I've heard Halloween parties are the best in this club.

Club Hella’s - Great place to shake your body. From English to Spanish music including bachata.  What else would a Hispanic want.  Although it’s not located in Fayetteville directly it’s approximately 15 minutes away in Hope Mills, NC.

Cadillac Ranch - This place hasn't gotten good enough reviews on here. The staff here is extremely friendly and I have a great time every time I visit this place. The dance floor is a great place to have fun if you're brave enough. For anyone who is nervous to dance, there are plenty of friendly people who don't mind teaching.

For New Military Wives

Shopping Mall

Unfortunately there is only one mall and it would be Cross Creek Mall (although they are making it bigger) but they are located on nearby cities. 

Beauty Salon

I tried a few places but in my opinion the best beauty salon would be this family owned Dominican Beauty Salon called Yoky Dominican Doobie Unisex Salon located at 106 Broadfoot Ave and believe me she will leave your hair, shiny and straighter than straight. 

On Post Gyms 

1. Tucker Gym – Located off Ardennes Rd, behind the Airborne PX.  It’s basically a CrossFit gym, they also have a separate room that carries regular gym equipment (but it’s not that big).

2. Frederick – Located off Gruber Rd. Just like Tucker. (From these two I prefer Tucker)

Running Trails

I haven’t been to any of these two, but they were recommended by many people:

1. If you have access to enter the base, the trail that runs the entire flight line on Pope Airfield. It’s exactly 6 miles.

2. Cape Fear River Trail:  It’s an 8 miles track, it’s located near Methodist University, off Ramsey St. They say to be careful if you’re going to run at nights, and during the day it tends to get backed with other people.

North Carolina is a very big state but I'm just focusing on Fayetteville since like I said it's where I have been for almost two years.  There is so much more to see, but these are my favorite places to go.  I hope it helps for those visiting this small "Military" town.