Welcome to Best of Raleigh, where we showcase the people and places shaping the heart and soul of our city. Today, we’re excited to introduce Haley Borden, the visionary founder behind Good Graces — an all-new multi-purpose café, market, and gathering space coming soon to the North Hills Innovation District.

Thoughtfully designed to feel like Raleigh’s living room, Good Graces is more than a restaurant. It’s a modern hybrid concept: part bar, part boutique market, part eatery — all rooted in connection, style, and good Southern hospitality.

A Vision Born From Everyday Life

For Haley, a North Carolina native and mom of two, the idea for Good Graces came from lived experience.

“I lived in the Lakemont community and realized there wasn’t a space that felt special without needing a reservation,” Haley shared. “I wanted somewhere you could pop in, grab something fresh, feel welcome — and it still felt elevated.”

The concept became a reflection of Haley’s lifestyle — fast-paced but intentional, refined yet approachable. “We’re building a space that brings people together — whether it’s for coffee, wine, or a midday reset,” she explained. “It’s an elevated everyday gathering place — something I was missing and knew others were too.”

From Business School to Big Vision

Haley’s path to entrepreneurship started with a bold move: leaving the corporate world and enrolling in the Executive MBA program at UNC Chapel Hill.

“I didn’t have the concept totally baked out yet,” she said, “but I knew that program would give me the tools to eventually own something of my own.”

Conversations with friends at Kane Realty helped her identify a gap in Raleigh’s dining and social scene, and from that spark, Good Graces was born. With support from a dream team of partners in marketing, finance, and hospitality, Haley brought her idea to life.

Why North Hills?

The location was no coincidence, North Hills offered more than foot traffic. It offered a mission-aligned ecosystem.

“Everyone surrounding us in the Innovation District is a local, minority, or women-owned business,” Haley said. “Kane has been intentional about creating spaces that celebrate community. It just felt like the perfect fit.”

From the design by Dusty Slimp, to the culinary insights of Liz Grandchamp from Grandchamp Hospitality, the space reflects collaboration at every turn, including touches of Haley’s own Southern upbringing.

Rooted in Grace, Family, and Flavor

The name Good Graces is more than charming — it’s deeply personal.

“It makes me think of my mom,” Haley shared. “She’s always been a gracious host — the kind of woman who celebrated big moments and small ones with intention and kindness. That’s how I want people to feel when they walk in the door.”

Many of the menu items reflect family recipes, such as her mom’s signature chicken salad, fresh seasonal salads, and classic Southern staples — all offered in an environment where guests can “do a little bit of everything.”

“Whether you’re grabbing lunch with a colleague, answering emails, or sipping wine with friends playing mahjong on the patio — we’ve created a space for it.”

A Homegrown Business with a Bigger Mission

While the physical space is under construction, Haley’s personal story — one of family, faith, and fearless reinvention — continues to inspire. She and her husband Will, a builder by trade, are balancing parenthood, home renovations, and a business launch — all at once.

“We just moved into our forever home, I’m about to give birth to our second child, and we’re opening a business. It’s chaos — but beautiful chaos,” she laughed. “I want my boys to know you don’t have to give up your dreams for your kids. You can do both.”

When to Visit Good Graces

Good Graces had its grand opening in August of this year, with a soft launch planned for local media and community insiders. Once open, it promises to be more than a coffee shop or bar — it’s a space designed to celebrate Raleigh’s local flavor, culture, and connection.

“This isn’t just about food or design,” Haley said. “It’s about how people feel when they’re here. It’s about being seen, welcomed, and celebrated.”

Follow Along

Follow Good Graces on Instagram at @GoodGracesRaleigh and visit GoodGracesRaleigh.com for updates on their grand opening.

We can’t wait to see how this beautiful concept comes to life — and to gather around the table at Good Graces soon.

Brought to You by The Coley Group

This episode of Best of Raleigh is brought to you by The Coley Group, the number-one Compass team in the Triangle. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, we’re here to help you find the perfect place to call home in Raleigh-Durham.

Take our Neighborhood Match Survey below to discover your top three neighborhoods — and maybe, your new favorite spot at Good Graces.