Defining “Best” and Setting the Scene
Durham, North Carolina, is more than just a city with a rich history and vibrant arts scene; it’s a true haven for food lovers. From the comforting aromas of Southern cuisine to the exciting flavors of international dishes, Durham offers an unparalleled culinary experience. The city’s dedication to fresh ingredients, innovative chefs, and diverse culinary traditions has earned it a well-deserved reputation. When you’re looking for great food, Durham delivers. This guide is your passport to the most exceptional dining experiences, providing a curated list of the *best food places in Durham* to satisfy every craving and occasion.
The world of “best” is, of course, inherently subjective. What constitutes the perfect meal or dining experience is unique to each person. Therefore, in compiling this guide, we’ve considered a variety of factors to help you find the perfect fit for your own preferences. These include: the taste and quality of the food, the overall ambiance and atmosphere of the establishment, the level of service provided, the price point and value offered, the uniqueness or originality of the dishes and concept, and, critically, the reviews and reputations of the restaurants themselves, drawing on insights from sources like Yelp, Google Reviews, and various local blogs and publications. We believe the establishments in this guide represent a diverse and exciting sampling of the best Durham has to offer, and we encourage you to explore these gems and discover your own favorites.
Exploring Durham’s Diverse Dining Landscape
Durham’s food scene is vibrant, and it is characterized by a wide variety of options, catering to every taste and budget. We’ll explore a selection of restaurants in different categories.
Elevated Dining Experiences
For a truly special occasion or a desire for a sophisticated meal, Durham offers a selection of restaurants that excel in fine dining. These establishments prioritize high-quality ingredients, impeccable service, and often feature innovative and artfully presented dishes.
The Durham Hotel Restaurant
Nestled within the stylish Durham Hotel, this restaurant provides an unparalleled experience. The sleek design, views of the city, and commitment to seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients elevate the dining experience. Expect refined versions of Southern classics. The chefs here have a knack for taking classic dishes and adding a modern twist.
Signature Dishes: Consider the buttermilk fried chicken, or whatever seasonal dishes are trending.
Price Range: $$$$
Location: 315 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham, NC 27701
Why it’s considered one of the best: The Durham Hotel Restaurant consistently receives praise for its impeccable service, sophisticated ambiance, and dedication to using the finest, freshest ingredients available. It’s an ideal place to celebrate an anniversary, a special occasion, or simply indulge in a luxurious dining experience.
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Nana’s
For years, Nana’s has consistently been ranked among the best restaurants in Durham, and the surrounding region. The restaurant presents inventive dishes utilizing seasonal items. Expect an exceptional menu which changes frequently to adapt to market freshness. It is known for its upscale, elegant ambiance.
Signature Dishes: Check out the rotating tasting menus for a truly unique and memorable experience.
Price Range: $$$$
Location: 2514 University Dr, Durham, NC 27707
Why it’s considered one of the best: Nana’s offers a consistently high level of culinary excellence, elegant setting, and excellent service. It is a great place for a special occasion or to celebrate.
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Laid-Back Dining Delights
Sometimes you crave a meal that’s delicious, satisfying, and easy on the wallet. Durham’s casual dining scene thrives with restaurants that offer a welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and excellent food without the formality of fine dining.
Bull City Burger and Brewery
This downtown Durham staple consistently delivers a fantastic burger experience. Everything on the menu is made from scratch using fresh, local ingredients, including the delicious burgers, hand-cut fries, and house-made sodas. The restaurant often has a great beer selection.
Signature Dishes: The Bull City Burger, with its delicious beef patty, is a must-try.
Price Range: $$
Location: 414 N Mangum St, Durham, NC 27701
Why it’s considered one of the best: Bull City Burger and Brewery offers a consistently delicious product, supports local farmers, and has a lively atmosphere that makes it a great place for a meal with friends or family.
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American Tobacco Campus Restaurants
Located within the revitalized American Tobacco Campus, you’ll find several popular and tasty options. The location is a landmark which is beautiful.
Signature Dishes: Check out the diverse variety of options within the area to find a meal of your liking.
Price Range: $$
Location: 305 Blackwell St, Durham, NC 27701
Why it’s considered one of the best: The American Tobacco Campus area is a great place to walk around before or after the meal.
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Hidden Treasures and Local Favorites
These are the places that the locals know and love, the restaurants that may not be on every tourist’s radar but are cherished for their authenticity, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere.
Dame’s Chicken & Waffles
This beloved Durham institution has built a loyal following by its amazing food. The restaurant is known for its chicken and waffles, and they are the best in the area. The lines can get long, but the wait is always worth it.
Signature Dishes: The chicken and waffles, which are a must try, are known to be some of the best.
Price Range: $$
Location: 530 Foster St, Durham, NC 27701
Why it’s considered one of the best: Dame’s Chicken & Waffles consistently ranks very high on the local’s lists for favorite places.
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Monuts Donuts
This is a Durham mainstay, serving up innovative and delicious donuts, along with coffee and sandwiches. The business places a high priority on community involvement.
Signature Dishes: The donuts and sandwiches are a great choice.
Price Range: $
Location: 1002 Ninth St, Durham, NC 27705
Why it’s considered one of the best: The food is wonderful, and the atmosphere is welcoming, helping it consistently rate very high with locals.
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A World of Flavors: International Cuisine
Durham’s food scene boasts incredible diversity. Here are some of the *best food places in Durham* when you are looking for international flavors.
Gocciolina
Offers an authentic and delicious Italian experience. The restaurant is renowned for its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients, creating dishes that are both simple and satisfying.
Signature Dishes: The pasta dishes are a highlight.
Price Range: $$
Location: 1700 E Woodcroft Pkwy Ste 105, Durham, NC 27713
Why it’s considered one of the best: Consistently receiving excellent reviews for food quality and ambience.
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Thai Cafe
Provides a true taste of Thailand, with a menu filled with the most popular and authentic Thai dishes.
Signature Dishes: Pad Thai, curries.
Price Range: $
Location: 763 Ninth St, Durham, NC 27705
Why it’s considered one of the best: Offers fantastic food for a low price.
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Breakfast, Brunch, and Beyond
Durham knows how to start the day right. Here are some of the *best food places in Durham* to satisfy those breakfast and brunch cravings.
Elmo’s Diner
Is a beloved breakfast and brunch destination. With generous portions of classic diner fare. The restaurant has a classic diner atmosphere and a loyal following.
Signature Dishes: Biscuits and gravy, omelets.
Price Range: $$
Location: 776 Ninth St, Durham, NC 27705
Why it’s considered one of the best: Elmo’s Diner provides a very nice setting for a delicious and inexpensive breakfast.
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Jack Tar and The Pearl
Offers an innovative take on brunch, blending seafood and Southern influences.
Signature Dishes: The Shrimp & Grits are popular.
Price Range: $$$
Location: 202 N Corcoran St, Durham, NC 27701
Why it’s considered one of the best: A unique brunch experience.
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Vegetarian and Vegan Delights
Durham embraces plant-based dining, with several establishments dedicated to vegetarian and vegan cuisine, or offering extensive and delicious options.
Happy + Hale
Provides fresh, healthy, and delicious options. They offer a range of salads, bowls, smoothies, and juices.
Signature Dishes: Custom salads and bowls.
Price Range: $
Location: 703 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701
Why it’s considered one of the best: Happy + Hale is the ideal place for a nutritious, delicious, and satisfying meal.
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Saltbox Seafood Joint
Not exclusively vegetarian or vegan, but it’s essential to highlight their incredible commitment to fresh, local seafood. This spot consistently provides fresh food, and it makes them a staple of the area.
Signature Dishes: You can’t go wrong with the daily specials.
Price Range: $$
Location: 608 N Mangum St, Durham, NC 27701
Why it’s considered one of the best: While seafood-centric, they are dedicated to the freshest ingredients.
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Crafting Your Own Durham Food Adventure
This guide represents just a fraction of the amazing *best food places in Durham*. Durham’s food scene is always evolving, so the restaurants we have mentioned here are only a sampling. It is important to explore and discover the numerous gems.
This curated list of Durham’s *best food places* can act as a starting point for your culinary explorations, whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite or a visitor hoping to experience the best of what the city has to offer. From fine dining to casual eateries, ethnic delights to cozy brunch spots, Durham has something to tantalize every palate. The variety ensures that every meal can be an adventure.
Durham’s dedication to fresh, local ingredients and inventive chefs means that there are always new culinary experiences to be had, so don’t hesitate to venture out and discover your own personal favorites. The city’s culinary landscape is a testament to its creative, diverse, and welcoming community, ready to satisfy every craving. So, plan your itinerary and get ready for a flavorful journey through one of North Carolina’s most exciting food destinations.
