15 perfect restaurants in Durham, United States
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Take a stroll around Durham and you’re bound to work up an appetite. Lucky for you, we’ve compiled a list of the 15 best restaurants to indulge all your foodie fantasies. From seafood shacks to fancy farm-to-table affairs, this list covers all the bases. So pack those stretchy pants, grab your fork, and get ready to embark on the culinary expedition of a lifetime. And if you don’t believe us, just try the fried chicken at the top spot – we promise it’ll convert even the staunchest skeptics.
Save destination1. Saltbox Seafood Joint
2637 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707, USA
Nestled in the heart of Durham, lies Saltbox Seafood Joint - a culinary oasis where seafood lovers can wade in the seaweed of deliciousness. The quaint storefront teems with customers jostling to peek into the kitchen, where the fresh, flaky fish is cooked to perfection. Patrons can savor a variety of seafood delights, from shrimp and oysters to lobster and crab, all while feeling like royalty in a laid-back atmosphere.
Learn more2. Gocciolina
3314 Guess Rd, Durham, NC 27705, USA
Welcome to Gocciolina, an Italian restaurant in Durham that will transport you straight to the heart of Rome, without having to deal with any of the tourists (except for maybe the ones at the table next to you). The menu is full of classic Italian dishes with a twist, like their famous pork belly carbonara, which will make you rethink your entire relationship with bacon. And be sure to save room for dessert, because the tiramisu is so good, you'll want to ask for the recipe and become their official taste tester.
Learn more3. Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas
112 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
If you're looking for a slice of South American cuisine smack dab in the heart of North Carolina, then Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas is your spot. With a vibrant atmosphere and a menu that's enough to make any foodie drool, this place is a gem. Must-tries include their juicy rotisserie chicken and tangy green sauce, and of course, their mouth-watering empanadas.
Learn more4. Parts & Labor
723 Rigsbee Ave, Durham, NC 27701, USA
If you're in Durham and looking for a meal that's as good as your mom's cooking but with a chef's flair, Parts & Labor is the place to be. With a menu that's part farm-to-table, part gastropub, and a hearty dose of Southern flavor, this spot is a must-visit. Plus, their beer selection is so good you'll forget that you're not a local.
Learn more5. Picnic
1647 Cole Mill Rd, Durham, NC 27705, USA
Picnic in Durham is the perfect way to spend your day if you like sunshine, sandwiches and the great outdoors. Don't expect caviar or linen napkins, but you can count on ants trying to steal your crumbs. The scenic backdrop of Duke Gardens provides a stunning view, and the occasional goose chase will keep you on your toes.
Learn more6. Mateo Bar de Tapas
109 W Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
If you're looking for a place to get your tapas fix in Durham, look no further than Mateo Bar de Tapas. You'll feel like you've been transported to a Spanish courtyard, complete with a fountain and striped umbrellas. The menu is packed with delicious small plates, so grab a group of amigos and get ready to share.
Learn more7. Pizzeria Toro
105 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Deep in the heart of Durham lies Pizzeria Toro, a haven for pizza connoisseurs and carb cravers alike. The smell of fresh baked dough and specialty toppings wafts through the air, luring unsuspecting passerby into its clutches. With a menu as long as your arm, and toppings ranging from classic pepperoni to exotic squid ink, this joint is sure to satisfy any pizza lover. Just be warned, you may never want to leave (or wear pants with a button) after indulging in one of their pies.
Learn more8. Dame's Chicken & Waffles
530 Foster St #130, Durham, NC 27701, USA
As you make your way through Durham, you'll hear whispers of a legendary eatery that serves up the perfect combination of crispy fried chicken and fluffy waffles - and let me tell you, those whispers are true. Dame's Chicken & Waffles is the kind of place that'll make you want to shout from the rooftops. The only downside? You might have to fight off the hordes of locals who have already discovered this gem.
Learn more9. NanaTaco
2512 University Dr, Durham, NC 27707, USA
NanaTaco in Durham: the go-to spot for those seeking a bite of Mexican flavor with a Southern twist. You won't find any fancy-schmancy dishes or avant-garde presentation here, but what you will find are damn good tacos and to-die-for margaritas. Be sure to bring your appetite and a sense of humor - NanaTaco is a place where the food is as big and bold as the personalities behind it.
Learn more10. Rose's Meat Market and Sweet Shop
121 N Gregson St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Rose's Meat Market and Sweet Shop in Durham is like a deliciously carnivorous and sugar-coated paradise that you never knew you needed. Step inside and you'll be greeted with mouth-watering aromas of slow-cooked brisket and warm cinnamon rolls. Looking for a unique North Carolina souvenir? How about a jar of their famous bacon jam or a bag of homemade bacon brittle? Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
Learn more11. Mother and Sons Trattoria
107 W Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Nestled in the heart of Durham, Mother and Sons Trattoria is a cozy and charming spot. Run by a mother-son duo, this trattoria boasts an extensive menu of traditional Italian fare that will make your taste buds sing. With a nod to their North Carolina roots, they also offer a variety of locally sourced ingredients, adding a unique twist to classic dishes.
Learn more12. Guglhupf Bakery & Patisserie
2706 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707, USA
Nestled in the charming streets of Durham, lies a pastry paradise called Guglhupf Bakery & Patisserie. This German-inspired bakery will tempt your taste buds with their luscious cakes, delicate pastries, and mouth-watering bread. Be sure to take a deep breath before entering, as the aroma of freshly baked goods may knock you off your feet.
Learn more13. The Parlour
117 Market St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
As you step into The Parlour in Durham, the sugary whiff of heavenly desserts will hit you like a ton of bricks. The welcoming staff and unique ambience of the place will make you feel as though you have found the secret spot for indulgence seekers. And boy, will your sweet tooth thank you for it!
Learn more14. Juju Durham
737 9th St #210, Durham, NC 27705, USA
Juju Durham in Durham is a magical spot where cocktails and cuisine reign supreme. Located in the heart of downtown, visitors can sip on inventive libations while nibbling on shared plates as they take in the quirky decor. With a lively atmosphere and funky art, Juju Durham delivers a vibrant foodie experience that is not to be missed.
Learn more15. Dashi
415 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701, USA
Dashi in Durham is the destination for those who want to slurp their way through a variety of ramen bowls. Don't be surprised if you find yourself inhaling the savory broth quicker than your own breath. Plus, their steamed buns will make you realize that bread is a thing of the past.
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Durham by plane is to fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). From the airport, you can take a shuttle or taxi to Durham which takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
Car
The best way to get to Durham by car is to take the I-40 or I-85 highways. If you are driving from the north, you can take the I-95 until it joins the I-85. If you are driving from the south, you can take the I-95 until it joins the I-40. Both routes will take you to Durham.
Train
While there are no direct train services to Durham, you can take a train to either Raleigh or Greensboro and then take a bus or taxi to get to Durham. The closest Amtrak station to Durham is located in Raleigh, which is approximately a 30-minute drive away.
Boat
Durham is a landlocked city and can only be accessed by road. There are no seaports or navigable waterways that lead to Durham or the surrounding areas.
Bus
The best way to get to Durham by bus is to take the Greyhound bus which runs daily from various cities in the USA, including New York and Atlanta. The Greyhound bus station in Durham is located in the downtown area and is easily accessible by foot or taxi.