Spotlighting Zebulon’s Small Businesses

Located only minutes from Ponder, Zebulon is known for its welcoming spirit and supportive community. Small businesses offer a place to gather, shop local goods, and connect with friends and neighbors. We've compiled a few of our favorite finds in Zebulon to showcase why “The Town of Friendly People,” is a perfect place to shop, eat, drink, play—and call home.  

Fuel Your Day and Your Creativity
Start your morning (or grab an afternoon pick-me-up!) at The Creative Cup, a coffee shop owned by two sisters from Eastern North Carolina that’ll serve up more than your daily caffeine fix. Lean into your creative side through the community classes and events that are open to all at the coffee spot, ranging from Mahjong games to pizza making. Whether you’re learning a new skill or enjoying a latte, The Creative Cup is a place where community and connection thrive. 

Paging All Super Heros
Zebulon truly has something for everyone—and Comic World touts pages of proof. From new releases and classic back issues to graphic novels, manga, anime merch, figurines and trading cards, this neighborhood comic shop welcomes seasoned collectors and first-time comic book readers. “Your neighborhood comic shop,” Comic World showcases aisles of page turners for all.

Smashing Fare
Less than a mile from downtown Zebulon, Smash Masters has quickly become a local favorite—thanks to its mouthwatering half-pound smashburgers. Beyond the smashing (pun intended) patties, the eatery offers events to draw in the people—from open mic nights to karaoke.

Simple Shopping
Pinafore Boutique is your go-to destination for stylish finds and thoughtful gifts. This women-owned shop offers inclusive sizing, everyday accessories and charming home decor, all in one store! Whether you’re refreshing your wardrobe or picking up the perfect gift, Pinafore Boutique makes shopping local easy, effortless and undeniably cute.

For Pet Parents  
Community care is woven into everything at Mona Pants Mintage. This eclectic shop blends donated treasures with new finds, creating a fun, one-of-a-kind shopping experience with a pet-driven purpose. With 100% of sales supporting animal rescue efforts through the Mona Pants Foundation, every purchase helps fund pet rescue groups nationwide. Closer to home, Mona Pants also donates pet food to families in need and caretakers of feral cat colonies, making it a place where shopping truly gives back.

Zebulon is one of the fastest-growing towns in Wake County, where small businesses like these make everyone feel right at home. If you’re ready to call the Zebulon area home, stay connected with what's going on at Ponder, and be the first to know about the grand opening for this new home community coming fall 2026. And be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram! 

Ponder is a new home community located just 20 miles from downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S.