The Uniquities Guide to a Weekend in Chapel Hill
For over 30 years, our flagship store has called West Franklin Street home. What started as a small boutique in the heart of Chapel Hill has grown alongside this community — and after decades here, we’ve built up a pretty solid list of favorite spots.
If we were spending the perfect weekend in Chapel Hill, this is exactly where we’d go. From coffee runs and casual lunches to cocktails, live music, and designer shopping, here’s our insider guide to one of our favorite towns in North Carolina.
Start Your Morning at The Purple Bowl
A Chapel Hill staple for a reason. Whether you’re grabbing a smoothie, coffee, or one of their famous acai bowls, The Purple Bowl is one of our favorite ways to ease into the day before a morning of shopping and strolling Franklin Street.
Fresh, easy, and always good.
Breakfast Stop: Brandwein’s Bagels
If you’re craving a classic New York-style breakfast, Brandwein’s is worth the stop. Their fresh bagels and loaded breakfast sandwiches have quickly become a local favorite — and the perfect grab-and-go option before heading downtown.
Lunch at Med Deli
No Chapel Hill weekend guide would be complete without Med Deli.
For a quick, healthy lunch that never disappoints, this longtime favorite serves up everything from Mediterranean plates and wraps to salads, hummus, and fresh sides. It’s casual, consistently good, and exactly the kind of spot locals keep coming back to.
Designer Shopping at Uniquities
Of course, we had to include our home base.
For over three decades, Uniquities has been curating designer fashion on West Franklin Street for women who want pieces that feel elevated, effortless, and wearable for real life. Think premium denim, statement dresses, polished essentials, and the kind of pieces you’ll reach for again and again.
Whether you’re visiting Chapel Hill for the weekend or you’re a longtime local, our flagship boutique is always stocked with fresh new arrivals from brands like Veronica Beard, Mother, Citizens of Humanity, Farm Rio, Rag & Bone, and more.
We love being part of the rhythm of downtown Chapel Hill — and there’s something special about spending the afternoon shopping Franklin Street with coffee in hand.
Grab a Casual Dinner at Al’s Burger Shack
A local institution. Al’s Burger Shack is famous for its burgers, fries, and laid-back atmosphere. It’s the kind of place that perfectly captures Chapel Hill’s casual, fun energy.
Our order? A burger, crinkle fries, and a milkshake.
The BLT Everyone Talks About at Merritt’s
If you know, you know.
Merritt’s Grill has become nationally known for its legendary BLTs stacked sky-high with bacon and fresh tomatoes. It’s simple, classic comfort food done exceptionally well — and absolutely worth the hype.
Cocktails at The Crunkleton
For a more elevated evening, The Crunkleton is one of our favorite spots for cocktails and bourbon. The atmosphere feels warm, classic, and intimate — perfect for date night or ending the day with a great drink.
Their whiskey selection is one of the best around, but honestly, you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
A Nightcap at The Lantern
One of Chapel Hill’s most beloved dinner and cocktail spots. The Lantern blends cozy ambiance with incredible food and drinks, making it a go-to for a slower, more intimate night out.
It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Chapel Hill feels so special.
Live Music at The Cave
For live music, good vibes, and a true Chapel Hill experience, The Cave is a must. It’s low-key, eclectic, and packed with local character — exactly the kind of hidden gem that makes downtown Chapel Hill memorable.
End the Night at The Baxter
If you’re not ready for the night to end, head to The Baxter for arcade games, drinks, and a little friendly competition. It’s playful, nostalgic, and always a fun way to wrap up a weekend downtown.
After more than 30 years on West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill still feels like home to us. It’s a town full of personality, incredible local businesses, and the kind of charm that keeps people coming back year after year.
So whether you’re visiting for the weekend, stopping through for a game day, or planning a summer trip, we hope this gives you a few local favorites to add to your list.
And if you find yourself downtown, stop by Uniquities and say hello — we’d love to help you find something special for your weekend in Chapel Hill.