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15 Best Restaurants in Durham NC

Ryan FitzgeraldRyan Fitzgerald
May 23, 2025 9 min read
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15 Best Restaurants in Durham NC
Chapters
01
Counting House
02
Vin Rouge
03
Dames Chicken and Waffles
04
Pizzeria Toro
05
NanaSteak
06
Guasaca South American Grill
07
Mateo Bar de Tapas
08
Mothers & Sons Trattoria
09
Cucciolo Osteria
10
M Kokko
11
Bar Virgile
12
Goorsha
13
Local 22 Kitchen and Bar
14
M Sushi
15
Saltbox Seafood Joint

Best Restaurants in Durham, NC

Are you searching for the best restaurants in Durham, NC?  Check out these 15 great places to eat in Durham! 

Do you want to make Durham your home? One of the best ways to get to know a city is through its food scene. Durham has transformed into a culinary destination that rivals any major city, offering everything from James Beard Award-winning establishments to beloved local gems.

With its World-Class medical centers and proximity to Research Triangle Park, Durham is clearly growing and has a lot to offer. And who doesn't love food? Durham, NC, is becoming a hotspot for exceptional restaurants. 

Whether you're a potential homebuyer exploring neighborhoods or a current Durham resident looking to discover new favorites, Durham's restaurant scene offers something for every palate and budget.

Great restaurants often signify a thriving community, and Durham is no exception. From innovative farm-to-table concepts to authentic international cuisine, here are the 15 restaurants that make Durham a true food lover's paradise.

Explore these top-rated restaurants in Durham

1. Counting House 

Address: 111 Cocoran St, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: American 

Counting House is located in the 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Durham. Featuring a seafood-driven menu with creative takes on American classics, this restaurant is a must-visit for its bold flavors and innovative dishes. 

The expertly crafted cocktails and the perfect balance of upscale and approachable dining in a stunning historic setting make the Counting House one of the best restaurants in Durham. Breakfast, lunch, weekend brunch, and dinner menus are available. 

2. Vin Rouge

Address: 2010 Hillsborough Rd, Durham, NC 27705 

Cuisine Type: French 

Vin Rouge offers the perfect escape from everyday life. Eating here makes you feel like you have traveled to France. Ideal for a date night out, the atmosphere is intimate and upscale. Dining at Vin Rouge offers French flavors and an extensive wine list, perfect for special occasions. 

The red accent walls, decorated with black-and-white photos of celebrities and French art designs, provide the ideal ambiance and romantic setting. Outdoor seating is also available on the back patio. 

Menu options include escargots, steak frites, fruit de Mer, and many more delicious meals. If French cuisine is your favorite, Vin Rouge is the perfect restaurant to try in Durham. 

3. Dames Chicken and Waffles

Address: 530 Foster St #130, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Southern 

A Durham original that has become a regional phenomenon, Dame's Chicken and Waffles perfected the art of chicken and waffles long before it became trendy.

This soul food restaurant serves crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken and fluffy waffles in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. The portions are generous, and the flavors are unforgettable.

Diners line up daily to taste Dames's delicious and classic comfort food. When visiting Dame's, you can feel their love for jazz through their choice of music and art. 

The classic chicken and waffles combination is their most popular menu item, but do not skip out on their famous macaroni and cheese the next time you choose to eat here. 

chicken and waffles covered in syrup on a white plate

4. Pizzeria Toro

Address: 105 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Pizza 

Pizzeria Toro is a casual pizza place in Durham best known for its wood-fired pies and lively bar. Seasonally driven, Pizzeria Toro is considered to serve some of the best pizza in the Triangle area

Some fan favorites include the San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and the prosciutto cotto with olives and asiago. In addition to great pizza, they also offer antipasto and salad, and you can pair your meal with your choice of wine from their extensive selection.

5. NanaSteak

Address: 345 Blackwell St, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Steakhouse 

Durham, NC, has the perfect restaurant for those who enjoy a juicy steak. Opened in 2016, NanaSteak paid homage to Durham's history through its bar top and tables inlaid with real tobacco leaves.

This upscale steakhouse combines premium cuts with creative preparations and an extensive wine list. NanaSteak offers classic steakhouse fare and innovative dishes that reflect modern culinary trends.

The elegant atmosphere makes it perfect for business dinners and special occasions. This fine-dining establishment's dry-aged steaks and professional service create a memorable upscale experience.

From charcoal grilled filet mignon to seared Scottish salmon, NanaSteak offers menu options that will soon make this restaurant one of your favorites. 

6. Guasaca South American Grill 

Address: A-100 Erwin Square, 2200 W Main St, Durham, NC 27705 

Cuisine Type: Latin American 

Venezuelan cuisine takes center stage at this colorful, casual restaurant. Guasaca offers an authentic taste of Venezuela with dishes like arepas, empanadas, and traditional stews. The vibrant atmosphere and affordable prices make it a favorite among students and families.

In Erwing Square Plaza, Guasaca features a colorful atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating options. Other locations can be found throughout Raleigh and in Morrisville

7. Mateo Bar de Tapas

Address: 109 W Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Tapas 

There's nothing better than going out to dinner and trying a variety of different menu options. Mateo Bar de Tapas is the perfect restaurant for those who can never quite decide what they want to eat.

In downtown Durham, Mateo Bar de Tapas brings authentic Spanish flavors to the Bull City. Chef Matthew Kelly's commitment to traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients shines through in every dish, from the perfectly executed paella to the house-made charcuterie.

The intimate atmosphere and extensive Spanish wine list make it ideal for date nights. Curbside pickup is available. 

8. Mothers & Sons Trattoria

Address: 107 W Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Italian 

Mothers and Sons Trattoria is a trattoria-style restaurant focusing on handmade pasta and traditional Italian preparations. The intimate setting and open kitchen create an authentic Italian dining experience, while the wine list features Italian selections and local options.

The menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal ingredients, meaning there is always something fresh and delicious to order. If you are craving a home-cooked Italian meal, Mothers & Sons Trattoria is a must-try.

pasta in tomato sauce on a white plate

9. Cucciolo Osteria

Address: 601 W Main St, Suite C, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Italian 

Another exceptional Italian restaurant in Durham is Cucciolo Osteria. With its upscale yet casual environment, it is perfect for a night out with friends or a birthday celebration.

Although it mainly focuses on pasta, its menu includes bruschetta and antipasti options. Best known for its culinary creativity, fantastic service, and tasty craft cocktails, Cucciolo Osteria is a delicious gem in the heart of downtown. 

10. M Kokko 

Address: 311 Holland St, Suite B, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Korean 

M Kokko is a modern Korean restaurant that brings Seoul's flavors to Durham with style and sophistication. It offers traditional Korean dishes and creative fusion options, all prepared with high-quality ingredients and beautiful presentation.

The cocktail program is equally impressive, featuring Korean-inspired drinks alongside classic options. Popular menu favorites include wings, noodle and rice dishes, Korean hamburgers, and gyoza. 

three cocktails on napkins at a restaurant bar

11. Bar Virgile

Address: 105 S Mangum St Unit #1, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: American 

When visiting Durham, stop by Bar Virgile and grab a quick bite and a delicious cocktail. Conveniently located near the Durham Performing Arts Center, Bar Virgile has become the place to stop before or after a show.

The restaurant is inviting, making it an excellent place to take your friends or co-workers after a long day. The tables are close together, and the energy is high, so don't expect a quiet, intimate conversation. The ever-changing menu consists of poultry, beef, and pasta options.

12. Goorsha

Address: 910 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Ethiopian 

Goorsha serves traditional Ethiopian dishes with a modern twist. You can feel the love for the culture as soon as you enter the restaurant. The term goorsha refers to feeding one another in Ethiopian culture and is highly encouraged when dining in. 

Menu options include tibs (sauteed in spices) and shiro (chickpea stew), which are intended to be eaten with hand-torn bits of injera. Other menu favorites include sambusa, kekel, and spicy vegan stews. 

plate of delicious Ethiopian food alongside a glass of water

13. Local 22 Kitchen and Bar

Address: 2200 W Main St, Durham, NC 27705 

Cuisine Type: Gastropub 

Local 22 Kitchen and Bar is a local favorite gastropub located in Erwin Square Plaza. It features seasonal comfort dishes, craft beer, and wine. This small neighborhood bar is one of Durham's best restaurants. 

Local 22 is a pet-friendly environment, making it a hotspot amongst those looking to bring their pet out for a lovely afternoon meal. The bar offers handcrafted cocktails and local drafts that pair perfectly with its menu.

14. M Sushi

Address: 311 Holland St, Durham, NC 27701 

Cuisine Type: Sushi 

Finding a good sushi restaurant can often be challenging, but M Sushi exceeds expectations. With a dimly lit industrial space, this is the perfect spot in Durham for Japanese seafood and sushi options.  

While they only serve a small menu, the quality makes up for it. By using seafood directly from Japan, Korea, and the US, they can create a delicious sushi menu that will never disappoint. 

sushi with wasabi and chop sticks at a restaurant

15. Saltbox Seafood Joint

Address: 2637 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707 

Cuisine Type: Seafood 

Despite being inland, Durham doesn't skimp on quality seafood, and Saltbox Seafood Joint proves it. This casual seafood restaurant sources fresh fish and shellfish from the Carolina coast, preparing it to let the natural flavors shine. The fish market attached to the restaurant ensures maximum freshness.

Methodology 

Reviews, ratings, and cuisine types were considered when determining the best places to eat in Durham, NC. 

FAQs 

Is Durham, NC, a foodie town? 

Yes, Durham, North Carolina, is considered a foodie city. It is home to unique restaurants, award-winning chefs, and a variety of cuisines. 

What is Durham, NC, best known for? 

Durham, NC, is best known as the "City of Medicine," as it is home to Duke University Hospital, one of the best hospitals in the United States. 

Our Final Thoughts on Restaurants in Durham, NC

Durham's restaurant scene is just one of many reasons this city has become such a desirable place to live. Excellent dining, a strong job market, great schools, and diverse housing options make Durham ideal for families, young professionals, and retirees.

As more people move to Durham, the restaurant industry must keep up. No matter what you are craving, the options in Durham are endless. You will likely find almost every cuisine you can imagine throughout the city. 

At Raleigh Realty, we're proud to help people discover all Durham offers. Whether you're looking for a downtown condo or a single-family home, we can help you find the perfect property to call home.

Ready to explore Durham's neighborhoods and find your perfect home? Contact Raleigh Realty today to start your journey toward joining this vibrant, delicious community.

WRITTEN BY
Ryan Fitzgerald
Ryan Fitzgerald
Realtor

Ryan Fitzgerald is a top Realtor®, founder and owner of Raleigh Realty, one of the Triangle’s fastest-growing and most innovative real estate brokerages. Driven by a mission to be the best—not the biggest—brokerage in Raleigh, Ryan has built Raleigh Realty into a firm known for its cutting-edge marketing, high-performing agents, and culture rooted in collaboration, growth, and excellence.

Raleigh Realty

Under Ryan’s leadership, Raleigh Realty has become a top boutique brokerage in Raleigh-Durham, serving clients across Wake County and the surrounding areas. Raleigh Realty stands apart for its:

  • Top-Tier Agents – Every Realtor on the team is hand-selected for their skill, professionalism, and client-first approach. Raleigh Realty isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality.

  • Award-Winning Website – RaleighRealty.com is consistently ranked among the best real estate websites with incredible user experience, cutting-edge IDX technology, and hyper-local guides that help buyers and sellers navigate the market.

  • Inbound Lead Generation – With a strong focus on SEO and digital marketing, the brokerage generates a steady flow of organic leads, giving agents the opportunity to grow thriving businesses.

  • Supportive Culture – Ryan emphasizes mentorship, accountability, and autonomy—no micromanaging, just the right systems and tools for agents to succeed.

  • Community Focus – From neighborhood spotlights to relocation guides, Raleigh Realty is committed to being a resource for both buyers and sellers as they make one of life’s biggest decisions.

The firm continues to expand its reach, with the goal of 100 agents and $1 billion in annual sales volume by 2030—all while staying true to its boutique, client-centered values.

Awards & Recognition

Ryan already has notable public credentials and prestige:

  • He has been featured in outlets such as Forbes, Wall Street Journal, U.S. News, among others (as mentioned on the site).

  • Realtor Magazine named him a “Top 30 Under 30” in the country (as noted on his Raleigh Realty page).

  • Raleigh Realty is widely acknowledged in the local real estate community for its digital prowess and thought leadership.

  • The company is consistently ranked among the top real estate firms in Raleigh and is known for having one of the highest-traffic real estate websites in the region.

Community Involvement & Giving Back

Ryan’s leadership extends far beyond the closing table. He has built Raleigh Realty to be a company that actively gives back to the community and invests in making Raleigh a better place to live.

  • The Green Chair Project – Ryan and Raleigh Realty proudly support The Green Chair Project, a local nonprofit that provides essential furnishings and household items to families transitioning out of homelessness, crisis, or disaster. By partnering with this organization, Ryan helps ensure families have the comfort and dignity of a furnished home.

  • Food Donations & Drives – Raleigh Realty regularly organizes and contributes to food donation efforts, partnering with local pantries and organizations to help fight food insecurity across Wake County. These efforts bring agents, clients, and neighbors together to support those in need.

  • Local Events & Client Appreciation – Raleigh Realty hosts family-friendly gatherings such as pumpkin patch outings, coffee + donut socials, and seasonal celebrations designed to strengthen neighborhood bonds.

  • Supporting Schools & Youth Programs – Ryan partners with local schools and youth organizations to provide resources, sponsorships, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring that the next generation has access to growth and guidance.

  • Small Business Advocacy – Raleigh Realty proudly highlights and partners with local small businesses, amplifying their visibility and reinforcing Raleigh’s reputation as a vibrant place to live and work.

For Ryan, success is measured not just in sales, but in the lasting relationships and community impact Raleigh Realty leaves behind.

AgentLoft – Powering the Next Generation of Realtors

Ryan is also the visionary behind AgentLoft, a SaaS platform designed to help Realtors nationwide build their brand and generate leads. AgentLoft websites combine IDX technology, SEO expertise, and AI integration to give agents the competitive edge they need.

Personal Mission

As a proud father to his daughter Emma, Ryan’s mission is bigger than business. He’s dedicated to building a brokerage and a platform that create opportunity and stability for families, clients, and agents alike. His approach blends entrepreneurship with empathy—ensuring that Raleigh Realty continues to grow not just in sales volume, but in reputation, trust, and impact.


👉 Whether you’re buying or selling a home, or you’re a Realtor looking for the right brokerage to grow your business, Raleigh Realty—under Ryan Fitzgerald’s leadership—offers the expertise, technology, and community-minded culture to help you succeed.

Chapters
01
Counting House
02
Vin Rouge
03
Dames Chicken and Waffles
04
Pizzeria Toro
05
NanaSteak
06
Guasaca South American Grill
07
Mateo Bar de Tapas
08
Mothers & Sons Trattoria
09
Cucciolo Osteria
10
M Kokko
11
Bar Virgile
12
Goorsha
13
Local 22 Kitchen and Bar
14
M Sushi
15
Saltbox Seafood Joint

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