New businesses in North Carolina are experiencing a resurgence after a downturn during the pandemic, with nearly 15,000 new businesses added in the state so far this year, according to the North Carolina Secretary of State’s Office.
One of North Carolina’s thriving new businesses is The Flavor Hills, a restaurant with locations in Raleigh and Jacksonville. The Raleigh location opened in January, while the Fayetteville location has been in business for three years. The restaurant is one of nearly 40 black-owned businesses in downtown Raleigh.
Chef Morgan Teianne and her three partners have opened a second location of The Flavor Hills in the heart of Raleigh. She said the restaurant’s reception has been overwhelming, with people excited to open. The Fayetteville Street location has been successful, mirroring the popularity of their original Jacksonville location.
Teianne draws inspiration from her father and late grandmother to sell and perfect Southern cuisine. Originally from Washington, she decided to take her talents to North Carolina, where she caters to all demographics, receiving admiration for her food from many. She also advocates for other black-owned businesses to come to downtown Raleigh for support and collaboration.
Having operated a location in Jacksonville for three years and a location in Raleigh since January, Teianne and her partners are already considering opening another location in Charlotte by the end of the year. Their goal is to create a space where everyone can come eat, laugh and drink, contributing to about 3,000 new business registrations in Mecklenburg County this year.