Explore Best Durham NC Restaurants
Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Durham is a culinary gem that tantalizes the taste buds with an array of diverse restaurants. From the smoky allure of authentic barbecue joints to the innovative dishes served in high-end eateries, this city offers a slice of America's vast dining landscape. Each kitchen tells a story of Southern hospitality blended with global flavors, making Durham a must-visit destination for food lovers. Whether you're craving down-home comfort food or exotic fusion fare, Durham's dining scene is a testament to America's melting pot of gastronomy.
Juju durham
4.5
(1040)
Asian fusion and tapasbar offers creative, small plates, Shochu and Sake choices & other spirits.
Reviews:
Great food and friendly service, but the plates should be served a bit slower to keep them warm (as is a tapas format you usually ask for several plates). The restaurant has a nice ambiance, but poor acoustics made it hard to hear my partner (sitting in front of me). Despite this, I'd recommend it for its delicious food and welcoming staff, better for casual outings.
Maya Schojet
This restaurant is nothing short of fabulous! I dined with another couple, and each dish was delicious. There was a dessert that we all shared, and it too was over the top delicious. The manager, Katie, and waitress, Nam, really made our evening! Thank you for the great service!!!
Stacy Williams
We thoroughly enjoyed our first visit to JuJu Durham tonight. When we made reservations, it said we would be sitting at the bar. Our waiter was amazing and very friendly. We did request (since we arrived and there were plenty of tables available from the moment we arrived until the moment we left) to have a table instead of sitting at the bar. Although that wasn’t available we still throughly enjoyed our meals. We got the NC shrimp dumplings, the short rib wontons, short ribs and the lemongrass hanger steak which was amazing. Our entire meal was delicious. The atmosphere was awesome and we truly enjoyed our first experience.
Jessie Cookson
I’m not a huge tapas fan so I was skeptical going in. I went with a large group for a birthday party and it was amazing. Everyone ordered 1-2 small plates and we all shared so I got to sample tons. Everything was delicious! We were very impressed with everything we tried. It’s moderately expensive so a great place for a date or a special occasion. Some of the plates were tapas portions but the ramen was enough to order alone. Will for sure be back
Alex Davis
I've been to JuJu once before, but it was pretty soon after they opened. I wanted to go back, so the perfect opportunity came up to take the youngest niece. She is my fancy eating baby. She is a picky eater, but almost anything I get her to try... she likes. She loves noodles, so she got the garlic noodles. They were really good with a nice kick. I ordered the soy braised lamb, glazed pork belly buns, and fried chicken buns to share. The lamb was sweet with a spicy kick on the back. We took the bread, git some yogurt off the plate, and then the lamb. Fantastic! The buns were also delicious, a nice size, and had a nice size portion of chicken and pork belly... no skimping! Joe was wonderful! We told him we'd gone for a walk before, and we were really thirsty. My water glass barely got halfway empty, and he was filling it. Dessert was a chocolate moose tini... strong and yummy. It was a beautiful evening, which made the outside dining a pleasure. You must try!
Heather House
737 9th St #210, Durham, NC 27705, USA
Goorsha
4.5
(749)
Traditional Ethiopian cooking like sambusa, kekel & spicy vegan stews served in low-key surrounds.
Reviews:
Unfortunately, I think our experience would have been much improved by visiting on a weeknight when the restaurant was much slower. The servers were trying their best it seemed, but the restaurant was almost packed and I just don't think they had the staff to accomodate. Everyone was friendly, but we were waterless, appetizer never came, and we had to ask several times to ask for the check and to pay (we ending up having to go to the bar). My food was amazing though! I had the Doro Wot with beet salad and it was spicy, flavorful and delicious. My partner got the lamb tibs and they were a little overcooked. We really Ethiopian but won't be going back.
Liz Templeton
I ordered the kashka for a starter. It was delicious the collards tasted like it came from grandmas house lol For entree I tried the Doro tibs and the vegan combination. It was amazing!!!. I highly suggest checking this place out. Really nice atmosphere, great food and great service
luther kincade
Came with the hubby to get some good food but what we got was peppery and slightly overcooked. We ordered the lamb and chicken with most of the sides on the menu. The waitress however gave us the sides she wanted us to have. The waitress sat us in the smallest corner of the restaurant where I had to squeeze into the booth(literally moved the table to get in) despite there only being 1 party in there. She really didn’t explain anything nor did she seem interested in serving us. They were on their phones and really not paying attention to us at all. Overall it was just too much pepper and the service wasn’t worth it.
Takoya191
We loved everything about this place! The two young ladies that served us we're so kind and hospitable. They made great suggestions as this was our first time experiencing Ethiopian food. The food was delicious the music was great. We definitely will be back. I can't remember the dish with the cornbread cake and collard greens, but it was delicious!
Bell “Omalicha” Egbe
I had a fantastic experience at this Ethiopian restaurant. The food was flavorful and authentic, and the portions were generous. I loved the injera bread and the variety of dishes that came with it. The service was fast and friendly, and the atmosphere was cozy and inviting. The restaurant also had a nice selection of drinks and desserts. I highly recommend this place for anyone who wants to try something different and delicious.
Victor Rotari
910 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
It's a southern thing - downtown durham
4.2
(1351)
Restaurant & bar serving elevated Southern fare in an industrial-chic space with an open kitchen.
Reviews:
Came here last weekend and in general enjoyed the experience. I really liked the Faux Q, and appreciate having a vegan option at a southern restaurant. The cocktails were also pretty good—I recommend the Back that Razz Up. We all thought the food was good, but it maybe did not live up to the prices. The atmosphere and food were very casual compared to what the prices reflect. But it is fun and I would come back if someone else were interested in trying it.
Kathryn Green
My husband and I had the absolute pleasure of visiting for our first time this evening. The customer service was impeccable! We felt so welcomed as soon as we entered. Our experience only got better because Renee was our server! She was genuinely sweet, very attentive, and also had great menu suggestions! We started with the crab dip, had shrimp and grits and the blackened chicken Mac and cheese! Everything was perfect! Management is so attentive and we appreciated them checking on their guests as well! The food was delicious and we are already planning to visit again soon! We attended a concert later this evening at Carolina theater. We took a Lyft to the restaurant and walked about five minutes to the venue! The location was perfect! Thank you all for making this evening one of our best. Looking forward to visiting again soon! Possibly this week!
S Alston
With a hankering for shrimp and grits, we arrived at It's a Southern Thing without a reservation shortly after they opened. Despite a bit of pushback from the hostess, we were seated in the bar area facing the televisions where we had fantastic service and an excellent meal. Fried pickles to start were excellent and we ate every single one. The dipping sauce was perfect. Shrimp and grits for Mrs and she loved it. Lots of shrimp, lots of flavor and a very good portion. I chose the blackened chicken mac & cheese which was yummy. Super hot from the broiler, very tasty and enough that more than half went home with us. Not a cheap meal but a great one that we enjoyed and would definitely return.
Bruce K.
My husband took me there for my 45th birthday and it didn't disappoint. I e had my eye on this place for a while and I'm glad we finally went. The food was absolutely incredible. Our waitress, Kat, was a sweetheart. The food runner (I wish I would have gotten her name!) was a delight and cracked jokes with us (which we absolutely love and is completely our style) to the point I had tears in my eyes. The food was worth every dime. Can't wait to go back. 10/10 all around.
Brandy Renee Newton
Came here tonight for my birthday dinner. We really enjoyed our food. The fried cauliflower is amazing! Very crispy! Love the ranch that comes with it too. The Faux "Q" is absolutely delicious. If you're vegan/vegetarian this is THE dish for you. I wouldn't change anything. Love the smoky BBQ sauce that comes with it. I also ordered the pan seared salmon which I actually wasn't a fan of only because I don't really like sundried tomatoes and it's piled with them. I think the salmon could have a better crust/sear but the sauce was delicious. For dessert, we had fried beignets. It was good but definitely do not need the chocolate sauce that comes with it.
Raymond Vagell
605 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
The refectory cafe
4.4
(1215)
Breakfasts, brunches & casual American food, with vegan options, in a colorful, casual setting.
Reviews:
Overpriced mediocre food. Staff and service were great. Everything was tasty enough but presentation was dull and lacking. Shrimp and grits was decent and most worth the price. For $8 per pancake you'd think they'd have some whip cream, butter and maybe a few more strawberries but they were semi burnt with one chopped strawberry and some syrup. The breakfast bowl is a rip off. Overall it's ok, nothing to write home about.
Thea Picard
This cute little place was delicious. I love that they have vegan options AND vegan desserts to take home with me. I had a tofu bowl and a smoothie and took home vegan gluten free cheesecake and a chocolate chip cookie. The staff was kind and inviting and friendly. Will definitely eat here the next time I am in Durham.
Jenn Plumb
First time here this morning and I will be back. Food is delicious. Faustine greeted us at the door with such an awesome vibe/spirit. Great atmosphere ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Juliette Peoples
Made reservations for a larger party for brunch and our table was set for us before we arrived. Be aware you do have to go to the counter to order or order on your phone. We ordered and our food arrived quickly. Everyone really enjoyed what they got. I got the smoked salmon eggs Benedict and it was delicious! Will definitely come back.
Katy B
I had the shrimp and grits for the first time, and it was DELICIOUS! My daughter had the Cobb Salad, and my friend had the French Toast, we enjoyed everything!
Godis Jones
2726 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707, USA
Nanasteak
4.5
(604)
Steakhouse classics served in a light-filled, bi-level space with hardwood floors, a bar & a patio.
Reviews:
Top tier !! Lovely place for fresh and flavorful food. I only had a party of three but staff were very attentive to the needs of the table. The waitress did suggest her favorites and most popular dishes after being prompted. The salmon was very flavorful and cooked to perfection at medium. The orzo was prepared nice and did not over power the salmon. The chicken was plated well and tender (not sure if they brine it first ) but the flavor profile was A+. The collard greens at first took me by surprise because of the flavor but to know that brown sugar and apple cider vinegar are used, made it next level. The potatoes were plated nicely and the texture brought the entire plate together. Overall great experience. It was a pleasure to meet Graham and he took the time out the spark a conversation with the table. If you have not tried this restaurant , definitely put it on your list !
Mickeal Rhaney
Stopped in for dinner before the show. New to the area and didn’t make reservations so we sat at a high top. The ribeye was unbelievably delicious. Exactly how I want my steak done with the nice char. Together with mushrooms and their sauce made this steak the best steak of my entire life! The beer fat fries are a MUST!!!
Tender N
Tl;dr It was just fine, but we won’t be back. We went here for our wedding anniversary hoping we would have an amazing dining experience, but it was very average. The food was pretty mediocre for the price. We got the crispy ribs as an appetizer and it was a bit heavy with the salt, but I liked the concept. I got the chicken as an entree and that was a mistake. It was a tiny chicken breast with an even tinier drummette attached. I liked the potato au gratin, but the collard greens were sweet for some reason. I was at least expecting a half chicken. My husband got the prime rib and it was very flavorful, but it would have been even better if they seared it before serving. He got a side of Mac and cheese and it was like soup. The flavor was a bit like truffle oil, but not particularly cheesy. The drinks were nice and strong. We got the brownie for dessert and the brownie was hard and cold when we were expecting it to be warm. Our server was fine, but she was not very personable. She didn’t really try to make conversation with us at all even though it wasn’t too busy when we arrived. Overall, it was fine, but I’m in no rush to visit again.
Kiki A
100/10!!! Could not have been better. Wes and Jared were incredible and the service was impeccable. We got the heirloom tomato appetizer, filet mignons, and various sides. Everything was exquisite and the filet was one of the best steaks I’ve ever had (and that’s saying something). The owner also came by and was very very nice. We can’t wait to come back!
Katherine Smith
My first outing to this restaurant was amazing. Started with the seasonal tomato salad and a watermelon margarita as highly recommended by Dana (my server) and they were delicious. Next had a perfect filet mignon and roasted red potatoes (the potatoes tasted amazing with the sauce that came with the steak… the steak itself didn’t need sauce since it was already tasty as is). And because I’m celebrating my birthday, she brought me ice cream with a candle 🥳 This was a birthday treat for myself and I knocked it out the park 🎉🎉🎉
Yolanda Brown
345 Blackwell St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Viceroy
4.6
(1054)
Classic Indian & fusion fare like curried shepherd's pie served in an old-fashioned, English tavern.
Reviews:
Viceroy is a quaint authentic Indian spot in downtown Durham, the interior is Indian focus, yet accents of pub style vibe. The team members are personable + menu knowledgeable. If you sit at the bar, Matt, and his side kick, Annie can assist with wine pairings for the curries, and they’re both helpful when picking the right dish. The great thing about Viceroy is no matter the curry you order, they tailor to your spice level. Mild, Medium, or bring on the heat. Whatever curry you get, don’t forget the naan. See pictures with the details. They do offer daily specials too! Will always return here, one of the best spots in Durham, especially during the fall months.
greta vanderloop
One of the best Indian food we have had in the US. We live in Dallas, and have lived in SFO, both cities with numerous options, but have had nothing even comparable to the quality, taste, service and ambiance of Viceroy. Chicken and lamb both are halal, which isn’t common information I’m guessing since I didn’t find it anywhere until I called to ask. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone who is visiting or even lives around here, and we will forever be looking forward to visiting Durham to eat here.
Nida Raheman
The food is so delicious! I absolutely love the wings. The chocolate cake was amazing! Mango lassie yum yum! Our server was wonderful and made great suggestions! The restaurant has a cool and unique decor.
mandesa smith
Viceroy creates a magic with its authentic flavors and classic Independence era British pub vibe. Located in the heart of downtown Durham, it has a warm and inviting ambiance and a concise menu of mouthwatering dishes that captivate you upon selection. Palak chaat was a great start with its crispy Palak pakoras and Besan flavor topped generously with chutneys & yogurt to create a delightful chaat. Jeera Wings were even more fulfilling , with plump looking and tandoori-fied cumin heavy chicken drumsticks served over a bed of roasted veggies and complimented by cool raita. From the Mains, I tried their classic Paneer Makhanwala and Smoked Daal Bukhara along with Garlic Naan. What can I say- it was so so delicious. The sweet,creamy,delicately spiced gravy went so well with the perfectly charred Garlic Naan. Finally dessert- I settled with the innovative cadbury kheer which was awesome. Real Cadbury chocolate flavor without it being too dominant. The rice however were basmati- bit odd choice for a kheer. It should have the short grain rice instead. Service is very attentive & personable. Although i feel they should provide more privacy at times. All on all- a fantastic experience. Indian verified.
Binoy Vasavada
Viceroy, serving Indian fusion dishes stands top on my list for one of the best Indian food places. Freshly made, flavorful and served piping hot. Been here multiple times now and enjoyed an amazing dine in experience! Recommend making a reservation ahead! Must try- Palak patha chaat, Butter Chicken, Lamb chops, Anjeer kofta, Caramel kheer
Jai Reddy
335 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Bleu olive
4.5
(705)
Mediterranean bistro with outdoor seating serving inventive fare in a white-tablecloth setting.
Reviews:
Came here for my moms birthday, we had a lovely dinner. The empress aviation cocktail was great, and the paella was pretty good! My mom enjoyed her salmon. It’s a little cramped on the inside but more of a cozy feeling
Callie Williams
Unfortunately, the air conditioning was on the fritz. I literally was dripping with sweat to the point my legs were wet. My entrée was good. I will have to go back when the AC is working so I can really enjoy the food without the discomfort of being extremely warm and fanning myself with a menu.
Stephanie Jones
We had an amazing experience for dinner here. From the ambience to our attentive server, from the tasty wine to the impeccable food, the entire evening was more than we could have hoped for! We started with the octopus, calamari, lamb kefte, and crab soup. For dinner, I had the lamb loin (which was cooked to perfection), and my husband had the scallop special. Not photographed, our friends had the steak frites, and the red snapper (the fish of the day). To top off our evening, we followed dinner up with the goat cheese and honey cheesecake. We cannot praise this restaurant enough!!
Lori Gray
Great food and service. All our choices were above the expectations and the mood of the place was very nice. I recommend for sure.
Mariana Alves de Carvalho
The food was really amazing and the staff was very attentive. The beet salad was very bright and fresh and beautifully prepared. For an entree I had the grilled pork chop that was outstanding! The fig compote on top was so tasty. The root vegetables were nice and toasty and the blue cheese risotto added a nice interest. The moussaka was very tasty. A great evening!
Phillip Andrews
1821 Hillandale Rd # 101, Durham, NC 27705, USA