After helping countless clients find a new home, our very own Selling Partner Rachel Frazier made a big move this summer. Don’t worry though, she didn’t go far (1.4 miles to be precise)! Rachel and her family have loved living in Chantilly for the last 7 years, but with two young boys and a husband working from home, the walls were starting to close in. So Rachel did what many of our clients do — set out to find more space in the same area of town. She landed on an amazing historic Craftsman in neighboring Elizabeth. Now that the dust has somewhat settled and the boxes are almost unpacked, join Rachel in exploring some of her favorite spots in her new neighborhood…
Best Date Night: Customshop
Customshop somehow marries fine dining and a neighborhood feel with ease. Known for its rotating seasonal menu and exceptional wine list, not much has changed since the new chef and majority owner took over this summer, which is a good thing in Rachel’s book. Why mess with perfection?
Address: 1601 Elizabeth Ave.
Website: customshopfood.com
Best Girls’ Night Out: The Crunkleton
Charlotte’s cocktail culture has been redefined by acclaimed bars like The Crunkleton. From the bespoke interior to the collection of curated cocktails that all have an origin story you don’t want to miss, it is easily one of Rachel’s favorite bars in Charlotte. Also, don’t overlook the food menu filled with memorable main dishes and perfect shareables for a Girls’ Night Out to remember.
Address: 1957 East 7th St.
Website: thecrunkleton.com
Best Treasure Hunting: East 8th Vintage
You never know what you are going to find at East 8th Vintage and that is exactly why Rachel adores it! From high-waisted jeans to highball glasses, light fixtures to leather jackets, there is something for everyone and every budget. Plus, the hunt is half the fun! New items come in constantly so make sure to add it to your list of frequent stops.
Address: 1950 East 8th St.
Website: east8thvintage.com
Best Easy Family Dinner: Hawthorne’s NY Pizza & Bar
We all have those times when the day just gets the best of us. Between work, home, and a second term of being PTA President at Shamrock Gardens, Rachel’s life is especially hectic these days. So when it’s a random Tuesday and she needs a little help with dinner plans, Hawthorne’s it is! Its NYC-style pizza is always a crowd favorite and the patio is the perfect spot to take in the neighborhood while enjoying a slice.
Address: 1701 East 7th St.
Website: pizzacharlottenc.com
Best Sweet Treat: Elizabeth Creamery
It doesn’t get much better than homemade ice cream. Elizabeth Creamery may be small in space, but it packs a big punch with its flavors. Pro tip: get a waffle cone. You won’t regret it; they are amazing! One of Rachel’s favorite things about this local, family-owned ice cream shop is that the street car stops just steps from the front door. Her family (and her neighbors) love that they can hop on the Gold Line to explore Elizabeth.
Address: 1535 Elizabeth Ave.
Best Lifesaver: Queens Pharmacy
Is it strange that a pharmacy is one of Rachel’s favorite places in the neighborhood? Not if you know Rachel (lol)! Queens Pharmacy was also Rachel’s go-to spot for health essentials when she lived in Chantilly so she is thrilled that it is so convenient to her new home too. The staff is so knowledgeable and always happy to help advise neighbors.