Looking for gastronomic adventures in Durham, North Carolina? Dive into the vibrant culinary scene with these 15 exceptional restaurants offering a delectable fusion of flavors, ambiance, and local charm. From upscale comfort food to retro diners and seafood havens, discover the diverse culinary tapestry that Durham has to offer.
Counting House: Artistic Dining Experience
Situated within the 21c Museum Hotel, Counting House offers an exquisite dining experience complemented by bold yet familiar menu choices. With its modern art setting and occasional visits from the iconic pink penguins, it’s more than a meal—it’s an artistic endeavor.
Dame’s Chicken & Waffles: Downtown Staple
A downtown gem, Dame’s Chicken & Waffles captivates diners with its flavorful offerings. The Orange Speckled Chabo, a delightful combination of a chicken cutlet, sweet potato waffle, and delightful toppings, makes the wait worthwhile.
Geer Street Garden: Casual Outdoor Delight
For a laid-back outdoor dining experience, Geer Street Garden shines with its Pile loaded fries and satisfying Cobb salad, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed meal amidst Durham’s ambiance.
Jack Tar & The Colonel’s Daughter: Upscale Comfort Food
Exploring an upscale twist on comfort food? Jack Tar & The Colonel’s Daughter offers a delightful menu featuring standout dishes like Brussels sprouts with a unique spice and heat profile and the must-order shrimp burger.
M Restaurants: An Assortment of Culinary Wonders
The array of M restaurants in Durham each offers its distinct charm. With an enticing variety of choices, these culinary havens promise an unforgettable dining experience, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Mateo: Exceptional Dining Experience
Mateo stands out as one of North Carolina’s finest restaurants, offering an eclectic menu that promises an exceptional dining experience. Indulge in dishes like the Almejas featuring NC little neck clams, boiled peanuts, and jamon.
QueenBurger: Pandemic-Era Smash Burgers
Emerging during the pandemic, QueenBurger began as a pop-up concept and now stands as a brick-and-mortar establishment, serving delectable smash burgers & fries, allowing patrons to relish flavorful bites.
Queeny’s: Retro Diner Vibe
Elevating the diner experience, Queeny’s boasts a retro ambiance atop Kingfisher. Indulge in their chicken crispers and fries or explore the flavorful Birria Dip, embracing a nostalgic dining atmosphere.
Picnic BBQ: Eastern NC BBQ Haven
A haven for BBQ enthusiasts, Picnic BBQ presents delightful starters like pimento cheese and entrees like the BBQ sammie with fried okra or mac and cheese, culminating in a satisfying culinary journey.
Press Coffee Crêpes Cocktails: Brunch Oasis
Press offers a haven for weekend brunch enthusiasts. Savor the avocado club crepe paired with tater tots for a leisurely and indulgent brunch experience.
Saltbox Seafood Joint: Seafood Bliss
An irresistible destination for seafood lovers, Saltbox Seafood Joint entices with hush honeys and delightful options like the fried oyster and shrimp roll, making it a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
For more culinary adventures, explore our curated list of 8 must-visit restaurants in North Carolina
COPA: Latin-Inspired Culinary Gem
Dive into a Latin culinary affair at COPA, where the flavors of Latin America come alive. Indulge in vibrant dishes showcasing a fusion of traditional Latin recipes with a modern twist. Don’t miss their signature ceviche and exquisite cocktails for a complete dining experience.
COPPER INDIAN CUISINE: Contemporary Indian Delights
Copper Indian Cuisine redefines traditional Indian cuisine with a contemporary touch. Featuring an array of flavorful dishes, from aromatic curries to tandoori delights, this restaurant promises a culinary journey through India’s diverse flavors, beautifully presented in a modern setting.
JAMES BEARD AWARD-WINNING RESTAURANT: Innovative Gastronomy
Nestled in Durham, this James Beard Award-winning establishment boasts innovative cuisine, pushing the boundaries of culinary artistry. With a menu curated to perfection, expect an exquisite dining encounter that harmonizes creativity, taste, and presentation in every dish.
JUJUBE: Asian Fusion Excellence
Jujube stands out for its innovative Asian fusion cuisine. Offering a blend of traditional Asian flavors with contemporary techniques, the menu features a diverse array of dishes that promise an explosion of taste and culinary brilliance.
Conclusion
Durham, NC, is a melting pot of culinary creativity, blending traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. These additional restaurants further enrich the city’s gastronomic landscape, offering a diverse range of modern cuisines to cater to every palate. Share your experiences and favorite modern cuisine spots in Durham to continue exploring the city’s vibrant culinary scene!