Around Town with… Em Sexton of The Flourish Market

In this series, we poll our in-the-know friends on what they love to see, do, eat and more in the Triangle. 

Em Sexton, Owner and Founder of The Flourish Market

Not only is Em Sexton the founder of The Flourish Market and its new co-working space, she also motivates women daily, speaks to influence and educates others. We got the scoop from Sexton on her Snoopy’s order, where she grabs an iced coffee and more.


What’s your favorite spot downtown? 

Nash Square. This has become a surprise favorite for me this summer! When I need some fresh air and a mental break from work, I love stepping across the street into a lush landscape right in the middle of the city. I like to take a lap around the square in the shade, sit on a bench and read or even lay a blanket down in the grass and eat my lunch.

Where do you go when you’re feeling a ‘treat yourself’ day?

Vita Vite. Pairing their frosé with a best friend out on their covered patio is an ideal way to spend an afternoon.

Juli Leonard

What’s your hidden gem in Raleigh?

The Raleigh Greenway. I’m always surprised that so many Raleigh residents I speak with don’t yet know about the greenway! With over 100 miles of trails to explore, this has been one of my favorite “getaways” from the business of every day over the last 12 years. I’ve trained for a half marathon on these trails, enjoyed the scenery with my dog Jivvie and taken bike rides with friends beside the billowing brooks.

Tough decision, Char-Grill or Snoopy’s?

Snoopy’s. A chili dog with a double order of onions on top, please!

What’s your go-to coffee shop and usual order?

Heirloom! It’s right around the corner from our shop and if you’ve ever walked in, you know how gorgeous it is. My go-to order is an iced coffee with vegan coconut syrup. It’s out of this world!

Smith Hardy

Where is your favorite place to grab lunch?

A Place At The Tablethe food, the hospitality, the mission. When I walk in, my shoulders immediately relax and I can’t help but smile. This is where I tend to take all of my meetings, and it’s always the first stop on the Raleigh tour when my friends come to town! Looking for recommendations on what to order? The pulled pork panini + chicken salad sandwich are my faves, along with their daily chef’s specials.

What about a weekday happy hour?

Junction West. They are the jewel of the Warehouse District, and it was so exciting to watch as they transformed the historic building on West Street into something so magical. I recommend pairing their “Soul To Squeeze” cocktail with a game of corn hole in their gorgeous courtyard!

Justin Kase Conder

Is there anything else in town that you love and want to share?

Downtown Raleigh, especially The Warehouse District, really comes alive on First Fridays each month! Summer is the perfect time to grab some friends and spend the night exploring downtown and supporting our city’s incredible artists. You’ll find special installations and events happening in our art galleries, but also at local boutiques and restaurants. It’s a fun way to explore our city on foot, and find your own hidden gems!