WAXHAW, NC – Shopping local, instead of big box stores and chain restaurants, directly impacts the staff and owners of those establishments and your community. In addition, by shopping locally, you nurture a sense of community, invest in entrepreneurship, and keep money in the local economy. So, when you’re out in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, shop local and make somebody’s holiday wishes come true. The following is a spotlight on a few local establishments that would love to help you spread holiday cheer in your hometown!
Refresh Gift Shop
Refresh Gift Shop is an eclectic gift shop for the whole family! Located at 318 E South Main Street in downtown Waxhaw, this shop has gifts for everyone on your list—including that hard-to-shop-for relative! In addition, they have a charming array of unique children’s gifts, including adorable snowman hats, baby clothes, gourmet candies, “Play Again” books, and crayons in confetti colors and dinosaur shapes to add to the fun of creative art! In addition, there are fuzzy, cozy socks, Swan Creek candles, decorative votives, witty dish towels, and the highly sought-after Waxhaw mugs for the adults on your list. Finally, for the ladies on your list, there is a wide variety of quality jewelry, including healing bead necklaces/bracelets, bangle bracelets, and earrings. Be sure to grab a few freshly scented bath bombs for stocking stuffers! Refresh keeps many items in stock, so you’re sure to find the perfect gift! You can follow Refresh on their Facebook, and Instagram pages @refreshgiftshop.
Mario’s Italian Restaurant And John’s Place
Located at 2945 Matthews Weddington Road in Matthews, Mario’s Italian Restaurant is a family-owned eatery lovingly established by John and Martha Fisichellos. They have an extensive menu, from steaks and seafood to traditional Italian dishes. Their Sunday Brunch is extraordinary; everything is handmade from the sweet cinnamon donut holes to the soft and crusty bagels. Eggs are served every which way, from omelets to eggs benedict. The shrimp and grits are near-famous with peppers, onions, and andouille sausage over cheesy grits,. You can even start your shopping day off right with a breakfast pizza! Brunch is every Sunday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, and your meals are cooked to order. Mario’s also has ample seating and a heated outdoor venue to keep you cozy while you gather for your holiday party.
They are taking orders for their Thanksgiving Menu, a meal for two that can be picked up or delivered. The menu includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, honey-glazed carrots, garlic knots, and gravy. Everything is thoroughly cooked; all you have to do is reheat it in the oven. Orders must be placed by Sunday, November 20, at 10:00 pm. You can call to order at (704) 847-4884.
Mario’s is currently running a gift card special which is great for holiday gifts. You can buy a $100 gift card and receive a $25 bonus card or a $50 gift card and a $10 bonus card.
Are you thinking of hosting a holiday party? Mario’s does catering! There are a variety of salads and sides to choose from that pair nicely with chicken, seafood, and pasta entrées. Some popular dishes include Baked Ziti or Penne Alla Vodka, Fra Diavolo or Shrimp Scampi, and Picatta Francese or Chicken Marsala. To see their entire menu, please visit their website.
Mario’s has a convenient take-out window and delivery options that will keep your food hot and delicious. For more information or to make an order, please visit their website at eatmariospizza.com or call them directly at (704) 847-4884. You can follow Mario’s for the most up-to-date information on specials and events on Facebook at Mario’s Italian Restaurant or on Instagram @eatmariospizza.
Capricci’s True Italian
Just like its name, Capricci’s is an authentic Italian restaurant located at 109 W South Main Street in the heart of downtown Waxhaw. Join them for a fabulous meal with fresh local ingredients, classic family recipes, and 20 years of experience in the restaurant industry. Besides their unique Italian dishes, Capricci’s offers a brunch menu Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Offerings include deep dish quiche, chicken and waffles, french toast casserole, and more on the breakfast side, real chicken fried steak, a filet steak sandwich, and a grilled or fried chicken breast on the lunch side. There are also appetizers like cheesy garlic bread, sides such as thick slabs of bacon and homefries, and plates of pasta like three cheese ravioli, spaghetti, and meatballs. There is also a kid’s menu with favorites like chicken tenders, waffles, and pasta. They also offer gluten-free menu options!
Capricci’s True Italian is offering a Holiday Feast to make the hustle and bustle of the season easier on you! Orders must be placed by December 21 and will be picked up at Waxhaw Social. Menu items include, but are not limited to, Virginia Glazed Baked Ham, Herb-crusted Sirloin served with Marsala sauce, and family favorite Slow Braised Braciole. In addition, you can choose up to two sides, such as Creamy Risotto; Mixed Greens with Diced Tomatoes, Fresh Mozzarella, Basil, and Olive Oil with Balsamic; or Broccoli and Cheddar Casserole. Desserts include cheesecakes, tiramisu, and apple crisp with caramel sauce. You can also order whole and half trays of baked ziti (with or without meat), eggplant parmesan, and baked mac and cheese. For the complete menu, please visit their website.
Walk-ins are welcome at the restaurant, but reservations are recommended. You can follow Capricci’s story on Facebook at Capricci’s True Italian or on Instagram @capriccistrueitalian. Please visit their website cappricistrueitalian.com or call them at (704) 256-5521 to order or for more information on their brunch and holiday menus.
Saveedas American Bistro
Saveedas is a family-owned upscale casual dining restaurant in a cozy setting located at 5922 Weddington Road in Wesley Chapel. Menu highlights include Braised Pork Ossobuco, Blackened Mahi Mahi, Pan Seared Tuna, Crab Cakes, and Mushroom Flatbread Pizza. In addition, they offer professional catering and are booking for private holiday parties. Owner Lincoln is very accommodating and will work with you to create an event that suits your needs. They offer the best customer service, aiming for customer satisfaction at every meal. Saveedas offers spectacular specials, and you can experience a rotating menu of craft beers every Wednesday night for only $3. On Thursdays, they offer half-priced wine bottles; Tuesdays are $6 martinis and cocktails.
For more information on booking an event or questions regarding the menu or specials, please get in touch with them via phone at (704) 843-2420. To view their menu and up-to-date information, please visit their website at saveedas.com. In addition, you can follow their story on Facebook at Saveedas American Bistro or on Instagram @saveedas.
