McAdams Homes – Blog

Wilmington Cultural Highlights: Restaurants

The Wilmington area is rich with culture and heritage, the diverse and friendly community is a combination of southern hospitality and relaxed beach lifestyle. This area has been influenced over the years by the changing tides, and currents of innumerable visitors that meet it. As we continue this series, we want to highlight and celebrate restaurants in our area that connect us with food from a variety of traditions.

Italian:

Roko Italian Cuisine – Italian fare infused with fresh local ingredients.

Osteria Cicchetti – Casual Italian restaurant offering up a variety of delicious dishes.

Tarantelli’s Ristorante Italiano – Family-owned and offering up authentic recipes from the finest ingredients.

Mexican:

K38 Baja Grill – Delicious drinks, fresh ingredients, and a relaxed beach vibe – K38 is offering up authentic Baja cuisine.

Flaming Amy’s Burrito Barn – Unique environment serving up Burritos and other Mexican fare.

Los Portales Taqueria – Quick, casual, authentic Mexican cuisine with 3 convenient locations.

Japanese:

Okami Japanese Steak House – Sushi and hibachi reinvented.

Yosake – Delicious sushi along with a full pan-Asian menu.

Nikki’s Restaurant & Sushi Bar – This family-owned restaurant has been a Wilmington staple.

Greek:

Olympia Restaurant – Specializing in traditional Greek and other Mediterranean cuisine.

The Greeks – Authentic Greek cuisine offered up fresh and at an affordable price.

Kipos Greek Tavern – An elegant and upscale dining experience of Greek dishes.

Indian:

Tandoori Bites – Welcoming atmosphere and staff with classic Indian fare.

Nawab Fine Indian Cuisine – Classic dishes offered with a modern interpretation from excellent and friendly staff.

Other Must Try:

Fabe’s Peruvian Rotisserie Co. – Casual restaurant specializing in Pollo a la Brasa and other Latin favorites. a

Mariposa Tapas Bar – Transport to Spain with a menu full of tapas, delicious wine, and an intimate atmosphere.

Caprice Bistro – Serving up delicious, authentic French fare in an intimate atmosphere, featuring an upstairs martini bar.

The German Café. The family-owned restaurant is serving up the best of German cuisine along with house-made deserts.

To learn where you can build your dream home and to be part of this historic community click here for current incentives and enjoy living in one of our specially curated neighborhoods. Or if you own a preferred lot, you can choose from our portfolio of floor plans to personalize with numerous design options. Contact us today to get started on your new home journey and relish in the bountiful culture Wilmington offers.

Garden Calendar – March Checklist

Temperatures are getting milder, trees are budding, the birds are chirping and there are new signs of life everywhere. The Ides of March once signified the beginning of the new year, which meant rejoicing and celebration. If you haven’t begun preparing for your garden already, now is the perfect time to start. Below are some tips to hopefully have you reaping the reward of all your hard work.

Houseplants. Days are getting longer, and indoor plants are starting to awaken, like the garden and trees outdoors. Now is a good time to repot them, if necessary and feed them well.

Stock Up. Nurseries, garden centers, and big box stores will begin putting out this year’s tools and supplies. Now is a good time to replace tools beyond repair. Pick up some summer bulbs, since they will be well stocked, and you can grab the best selection and store them in a cool dark place until next month.

Attend to Your Beds. This is a great time to start mulching and amending your garden beds. Be careful working your garden soil though, working soil when it is still too wet creates compacted clots, so just be aware to wait for dry spells. Clean up any leftover dried debris from garden beds and toss in the compost pile (start a compost pile if you haven’t already).

Start a Garden Journal (if you haven’t already). Buy a notebook and use it to keep all your gardening information. List what you plant in the garden and be sure to include the name of seed companies, plant name, variety, planting date, and harvest date. During the growing season keep notes on how well the plant does. If the variety is susceptible to disease, record what was used to treat any problems. All this information will be helpful in planning future gardens and deciding what seeds or companies you want to use.

Plant. The Wilmington, NC area enjoys a mild temperate climate and are in USDA Zone 8, affording us a long growing season. March is a great time to plant begin planting beets, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, eggplant, kale, lettuce, okra, peas, potatoes, radishes, spinach, tomatoes, and turnips.

Find Your Perfect Home. If you are ready to get your hands dirty. McAdams Homes offers specially curated communities in the Wilmington area, click here for current incentives. Or if you own a preferred lot, you can choose from our portfolio of floor plans to personalize with numerous design options. Contact us today to get started on your new home journey and get to planting.

Garden Calendar – February Checklist

February is still very much winter but the pace for preparations is going to pick up. February is a great time to prep your garden beds by edging, amending the soil, pruning, and mulching beds. Below are some tips to hopefully have you reaping the reward of all your hard work.

Tool Care. Use this time to take sharpen blades, make necessary repairs, and oil moving parts. Avoid the spring rush and take your lawn mower and any other mechanized tools you use in for service.

Cleaning Beds. Clean out your already established perennial garden beds and add the leaves and debris to your compost pile. It’s also a great time to prune your fruit trees, berry bushes, and other woody ornamentals on your property. You want to complete this while still dormant and before spring growth begins.

Start a Compost Pile (if you haven’t already). Your recycled yard debris (grass clippings, leaves, branches, or weeds) can be incorporated back into your garden as a nutrient-rich soil amendment. Compost increases soils porosity, fertility and stimulates healthy root development.

Plant. The Wilmington, NC area enjoys a mild temperate climate and are in USDA Zone 8, affording us a long growing season. February is a great time to plant Arugula, Asparagus, Beets, Broccoli, Brussel sprouts, Carrots, Celery, Kale, Lettuce, Onion, Peas, Radish, and Turnips. Start seeds for flowers and herbs with long germination periods or get a start on some cool weather crops like broccoli, cabbage, lettuce, onions, and parsley.

Wilmington Cultural Highlights: Historic Sites

The Wilmington area is rich with culture and heritage, the diverse and friendly community is a combination of southern hospitality and relaxed beach lifestyle. Influenced by the changing tides, and currents of countless visitors, this area is a melting pot of creativity, free expression, and an independent spirit. In this series, we want to highlight and celebrate the local attributes that continue to shape this area we know and love. Below are some and historic sites where you can be inspired by the natural and historic beauty surrounding us.

Battleship North Carolina. Experience the daily life and fierce combat the crew of this quiet and majestic battleship endured in WWII. Learn more about the crew who served their country in a time of need.

Bellamy Mansion. Borrowing from elements of Greek Revival, Neoclassical, and Italianate styles, the mansion is a spectacular example of early 1800’s architecture. Enjoy guided or self-guided tours of the meticulously restored 10,000 sq.-ft. house, recreated gardens, and the preserved urban slave quarters.

Burgwin-Wright House and Gardens. Built in 1770, this structure is the only colonial era house in Wilmington open to the public. Gaze at the fine Georgian architecture and experience what life was like back in the pre-revolutionary period as you wonder the grounds and beautifully restored gardens.

Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Fort Fisher marks the site of the Civil War’s largest land and water battle. The scenic trails, shaded by gnarled live oaks lead past earthworks, an impressive seacoast gun and other remains of the fort.

Poplar Grove Plantation. This historic site offers visitors an opportunity to explore an 1850 manor home, smoke house, tenant house and blacksmith shop. Poplar Grove strives to initiate meaningful dialogue that builds respect, empathy, and perspective as you reflect on and learn about the important role the Gullah Geechee people played in our community.

Little Home Upgrades that Make a Big Difference

Our goal at McAdams Homes is to offer our customers creatively designed floor plans, while ensuring we provide you with the highest quality in new home construction. To that end, we strive to meet excellence in every detail of your home, so that you can feel good about investing in it and your quality of life with these simple upgrades that seem small but can make all the difference. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Dimmer Switches. Enjoying the pleasing aesthetic of a dimmer switch in your home doesn’t require upgrades to your wiring, all you need to decide on is which type of control knob you want.

Ceiling Fans. Enjoy year-round savings as the fans create cooling breezes in summer and help circulate heated air to keep rooms warmer.

Tankless Water Heater. Replacing the traditional water heater with a space-savvy and energy-wise tankless system provides on-demand hot water.

Solar Energy. This seems like a significant financial investment, but you don’t have to invest in running your entire home on solar right away. Approach solar as an emergency backup by selecting batteries and panels that could keep the lights on and the fridge running if the power goes out.

Bidet. This bathroom upgrade is not only for personal hygiene but can help ease the strain on your pipes and your wallet by reducing the amount of toilet paper needed.

Paint. The most often tackled home-improvement upgrade, paint provides dramatic results with little investment.

If you are looking for a home your family can enjoy for a lifetime, contact us today. We build specially curated communities in the Wilmington Area of North Carolina, click here for current incentives. Or if you own a preferred lot, you can choose from our portfolio of floor plans to personalize with numerous design options.

Wilmington Cultural Highlights: Museums

The Wilmington area is rich with culture and heritage, the diverse and friendly community is a combination of southern hospitality and relaxed beach lifestyle. Influenced by the changing tides, and currents of countless visitors, this area is a melting pot of creativity, free expression, and an independent spirit. In this series, we want to highlight and celebrate the local attributes that continue to shape this area we know and love. Below are some museums where you can be inspired by the natural and historic beauty surrounding us.

Cameron Art Museum – CAM provides art education, exhibitions, and dynamic public programs of both historical and contemporary significance, within a 42,000 sq.-ft. state of the art building that serves as a cultural gathering place that strives to enrich the lives of visitors and the community.

Cape Fear Museum of History and Science. Whether you want to discover the past, meet the giant ground sloth or experiencing other exciting exhibits, the state’s first history museum exploring the culture of the lower Cape Fear region.

Charles Jones African Art – This gallery has been in the community for over 25 years, displaying an extensive and varied collection of traditional African art.

Wilmington Railroad Museum. From the life-size caboose to explore to a collection of displays, the museum teaches about the history of the Atlantic Coastline Railroad and offers fun interactive activities.

Wilmington Cultural Highlights: Galleries

The Wilmington area is rich with culture and heritage, the diverse and friendly community is a combination of southern hospitality and relaxed beach lifestyle. Influenced by the changing tides, and currents of countless visitors, this area is a melting pot of creativity, free expression, and an independent spirit. In this series, we want to highlight and celebrate the local attributes that continue to shape this area we know and love. Below are some galleries supporting local and regional artists who are inspired by the natural and historic beauty surrounding us.

Art in Bloom Gallery – The gallery is located in historic downtown, and presents an eclectic mix of original paintings, ceramics, sculpture, blown glass, mosaics, photography, jewelry, and mixed media from emerging as well as established artists.

The Art Works – The Art Village is a combination art studio and gallery, with private space for meetings, classes, and events.

Charles Jones African Art – This gallery has been in the community for over 25 years, displaying an extensive and varied collection of traditional African art.

Acme Art Studios – Located on North 5^th Ave, this combination gallery and work studio is part of the Fourth Friday Gallery Night.

Bottega. The casual and fun art gallery that not only hosts events but also serves wine and beer. What more could you ask for?!

New Elements Gallery. This gallery located downtown has been featuring a wide variety of work from regional and nationally recognized artists.

To learn where you can build your dream home and to be part of this creative community click here for current incentives and enjoy living in one of our specially curated neighborhoods. Or if you own a preferred lot, you can choose from our portfolio of floor plans to personalize with numerous design options. Contact us today to get started on your new home journey and relish in the bountiful culture Wilmington offers.

Wilmington Breakfast Spots

It’s breakfast time, from shrimp and grits to scratch made biscuits, the options for a delicious start to your day are abundant. Whether you are looking for a leisurely brunch or a quick treat, maybe you want to discover a new gem or to kick start your day with “the usual”, no matter what you crave, Wilmington has something for all appetites.

Drift Coffee & Kitchen. Serving up premium coffee and breakfast alike, Drift is serving healthy, delicious foods at several locations in the area. Great for a quick to-go breakfast or a leisurely bite.

Famous Toastery of Wilmington. Breakfast and lunch, and brunch served all day! From traditional offerings to those with a modern twist, the menu and full bar will be sure to please any guest.

Savorez. Latin American fusion dishes served in a snug, brightly painted space with a vibrant and friendly ambiance. Sunday Brunch from 10AM – 2PM and be sure to try the pan frances with fried Cuban bread!

The Basics. Serving up creative spins on traditional Southern cuisine in a comfortable bistro setting.

Goody Goody Omelet House. This Wilmington staple has been serving signature Spanish omelets for over 30 years. Whether it’s your first time or you are a regular, everyone is family at Goody Goody.

Our Crepes & More. For a real French Crepe experience, visit this family owned and operated restaurant.

Brunches. This laid-back eatery offers breakfast classics, burritos, bowls, plus mimosas and cocktails!

Vicious Biscuit. Is bringing elevated biscuits to the must-eat meal of the day.

If you are like us, you’re ready to get out there to sample all of these tasty breakfast spots. See one of our specially curated communities in the Wilmington, NC area, click to view our current incentives. Or if you own a preferred lot, you can choose from our portfolio of floor plans to personalize with numerous design options. Contact us today to get started on your new home journey.

Top Things for Kids in Wilmington

Hip-Hip-Hooray! Kid fun found here. Besides the obvious (the beach!) there’s a ton to do around our area that kids of all ages will love. Here are a few fun spots you should definitely try out even if the weather isn’t exactly cooperating.

The Children’s Museum. Discover, play, and get hands-on learning through engaging and informative exhibits and activities. Families will enjoy the historic charm of downtown as pre-school to elementary aged children will find plenty of opportunities to explore and better understand the arts, sciences, and culture throughinteractive and age-appropriate activities. Get tickets and learn more here.

Long Leaf Park. Centrally located and offering up picnic shelters, a fully accessible playground and the seasonal splashpad, this park has it all. Visit their website for more information.

Wilmington Railroad Museum. From real life-size caboose to explore to a collection of displays, the Museum teaches about railroad history and offers fun interactive activities. For hours and prices click here.

Battleship NC. Experience the daily life and fierce combat the crew of this quiet and majestic battleship endured in WWII. For more information and to plan your visit, click here.

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher. Connecting you to the natural world, the NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher offers visitors a chance to explore marine life and various aquatic environments like salt marshes, tidal pools, and an open ocean exhibit. Watch a family of otters play, feel stingrays glide past your finger tips, and come face to face with sea turtles and sharks. Plan your visit your visit today.

Carolina Beach Boardwalk and Amusement Park. Enjoy a seaside amusement park with rides, games food and fun for all ages. Stay up-to-date here.

Polar Ice Wilmington. Ice skating and winter weather go hand in hand. Polar Ice offers public skating, lessons and entertainment for the whole family. Warm up with some hot chocolate and let the kids play arcade games while you skate. Click here for more information.

Jungle Rapids. If you are looking for a complete family entertainment center, Jungle Rapids is the stop for you. Although Jungle Rapids is known for its water activities and Go-Karts, they also have a large arcade with other indoor activities, there is sure to be plenty of ways for the whole family to have fun.

Trampoline Parks. Flip N Fly is a 28,000 square foot state of the art facility with wall-to-wall trampolines. From foam pits, rope courses, basketball hoops and trampolines, Defy Gravity offers a park for extreme air sports. Click here for more information and hours.

Bowling. Ten Pin Alley is not only home to bowling, but also billiards, an arcade and restaurant, what more could the family need on a rainy day?! Cardinal Lanes Shipyard offers kid programs and Cardinal Lanes Beach Bowl also has arcade games and you can enjoy food, drinks and beer.

And for those days you don’t feel like leaving the house. Learn where you can build your dream home (that has that rec room you need) in one of our specially curated communities in the Wilmington Area of North Carolina. Click here for current incentives. Or if you own a preferred lot, you can choose from our portfolio of floor plans to personalize with numerous design options. Contact us today to get started on your new home journey.

Garden Calendar – January Checklist

January marks the start of new beginnings and the excitement of a new garden season. It’s the perfect time to reflect on where you have been and where you’re headed, and the garden should be no different. January is a great time to plan and prepare for your garden to come. Below are some tips to hopefully have you reaping the reward of all your hard work.

Start Indoors. Give those houseplants a cleaning. Wipe down dust that settles on leaves, clogging the “pores” and preventing light penetration as well as gas and moisture exchange.

Start a Garden Journal. Jot down notes about what happened in your garden last year, and plan for what you want to see in the year ahead. Make notes of which varieties of flowers and vegetables do best and which do poorly in your garden.

Order Seeds. With your goals in mind, plan your seed order. This is an exciting time to think of all the new possibilities that await your garden. Now it’s time to gather your seed starting equipment and make sure everything is properly sterilized.

Tool Care. Use this time to take sharpen blades, make necessary repairs, and oil moving parts. This is also a great time to try out one of those DIY garden projects you’ve been thinking about, like a cold frame or wood pallet raised garden.

Plant. The Wilmington, NC area enjoys a mild temperate climate and are in USDA Zone 8, affording us a long growing season. January is a great time to plant micro-greens on your countertop. Start seeds for flowers and herbs with long germination periods or get a start on some cool weather crops like broccoli, cabbage, lettuce, onions, and parsley.