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

Solo musician Jamil Rashad, known by the stage name Boulevards, has lived in Raleigh his entire life—making him a great candidate for someone who knows all the spots around town. Find out where the funk musician is shopping, what he orders at Heirloom and more.  

What’s your favorite spot downtown?

I dig on Capital Club 16, Father & Son, Edge of Urge makes me feel like home and cozy. People are wonderful and down to earth.

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

To treat myself I either go to Crawford & Son or Stanbury.

What’s your hidden gem in Raleigh?

My favorite hidden gem would be Lee’s Kitchen if you love Jamaican eats. This is the place to go and chow down.

Tough decision, Char-Grill or Snoopy’s?

Neither. Cookout, yadig!

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

Heirloom is my go-to coffee shop. I usually order the sparkling mint coffee.

Where is your favorite place to grab lunch?

Raleigh Raw

What about a weekday happy hour?

I don’t drink, so I don’t have a happy hour, but if I would like to recommend a spot to friends or someone out of town—Foundation Bar.

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

CAM Museum, Deco, Quercus, Umstead Park and Dorothea Dix Park.