Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Durham, North Carolina, United States
1. Barbecue Pork at The Pit
Savor tender smoked pork shoulder slow-cooked over hickory wood in a historic building dating back to 1946.
- Historic Setting: Dine in a renovated 19th-century tobacco warehouse.
- Traditional Technique: Experience the authentic North Carolina barbecue tradition.
- Hickory Smoke: Taste the distinct flavor imparted by hickory wood smoke.
2. Fried Chicken at Dame's Chicken & Waffles
Crispy golden fried chicken served with sweet waffles, syrup, and a variety of sides.
- Creative Spin: Savor the unique combination of savory and sweet flavors.
- Comfort Food: Indulge in a classic Southern comfort meal.
- Cooking Technique: Marvel at the perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior.
3. Shrimp and Grits at Parker & Otis
Tasty shrimp cooked with creamy grits, served with collard greens and smoked sausage.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Savor the freshness of locally sourced seafood.
- Traditional Southern Dish: Experience a classic Lowcountry favorite with a Durham twist.
- Versatile Recipe: Enjoy variations like shrimp and grits with andouille sausage or mushrooms.
4. Honeysuckle Sorbet at Scratch
A refreshing sorbet made from locally harvested honeysuckle flowers, a uniquely Southern treat.
- Seasonal Flavor: Indulge in the taste of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Southern Tradition: Experience a regional favorite with a modern twist.
- Locally Grown Ingredients: Taste the flavors of Durham's gardens and farms.
5. Veggie Tacos at La Farm Bakery
Delicious vegetarian tacos filled with roasted vegetables and topped with queso fresco.
- Health-Conscious Option: Enjoy a veggie-packed meal without sacrificing flavor.
- Artisanal Bread: Savor freshly baked bread from one of Durham's best artisan bakeries.
- Middle Eastern Influence: Experience the flavors of North Africa in a Southern setting.
6. Grilled Cheese at Toast
Gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches made with artisanal bread and unique fillings.
- Craftsmanship: Taste the difference that quality ingredients make.
- Creative Fillings: Experience exciting flavor combinations in every bite.
- Artisanal Bread: Savor freshly baked bread from a Durham artisan bakery.
7. Beef Tenderloin at Mateo Bar de Tapas
Succulent beef tenderloin cooked with garlic and served with potatoes.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Savor premium cuts of meat prepared expertly.
- Spanish Inspiration: Experience traditional Spanish tapas in a Durham setting.
- Garlic Aroma: Enjoy the rich garlic flavor infused into every bite.
8. Pork Belly at Saltbox Seafood Joint
Crispy pork belly served with pickles, collard greens, and hush puppies.
- Southern Comfort: Indulge in a classic Southern dish with a contemporary twist.
- Seafood Focus: Experience Durham's best seafood offerings alongside local favorites.
- Perfectly Crispy: Savor the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked pork belly.
9. Banh Mi at The Station
Traditional Vietnamese sandwich filled with pickled vegetables, cilantro, and spicy mayo.
- Authentic Recipe: Taste the flavors of Vietnam in a Durham setting.
- Fusion Cuisine: Experience the blending of Vietnamese and Southern flavors.
- Fresh Ingredients: Savor the crispness of fresh vegetables in every bite.
10. Ramen at Ramen Kid
Delicious ramen bowls with various toppings and broth options.
- Customizable Options: Create your perfect ramen bowl by choosing from a variety of toppings and broths.
- Authentic Recipe: Taste the flavors of Japan in a Durham setting.
- Rich Broth: Savor the depth of flavor in each spoonful of broth.
11. Fried Catfish at Nana's Fried Fish and More
Crispy fried catfish served with hush puppies, coleslaw, and collard greens.
- Authentic Southern Recipe: Experience a classic Southern dish at its finest.
- Homemade Feel: Taste the love and care put into each meal by Nana herself.
- Crispy Exterior: Savor the satisfying crunch of perfectly fried catfish.
12. Farmstead Tomato Pie at Pizzeria Toro
Delicious tomato pie with a tangy sauce and fresh basil.
- Creative Spin: Experience the unique flavor of tomato pie.
- Farm-to-Table Ingredients: Taste the freshness of locally sourced ingredients.
- Artisanal Pizza: Savor the perfect blend of dough, sauce, and cheese in every slice.
13. Pulled Pork at The Bullock's Heart BBQ
Tender pulled pork shoulder smothered in a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
- Authentic Eastern North Carolina Recipe: Experience the distinct flavor of Eastern NC barbecue.
- Slow-Cooked Perfection: Taste the juiciness and tenderness of slow-cooked pork.
- Vinegar-Based Sauce: Enjoy the tangy, slightly spicy sauce that complements the meat.
14. Carolina Gold Rice Bowl at Sushi Thai Valentine
A fusion dish combining Carolina Gold rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein.
- Fusion Cuisine: Experience the blending of Southern and Asian flavors.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Savor the freshness of premium ingredients.
- Versatile Rice: Enjoy the nutty, buttery flavor of Carolina Gold rice.
15. Goat Cheese Salad at Parker & Otis
A refreshing salad with local goat cheese, candied pecans, and a citrus vinaigrette.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Taste the freshness of locally sourced ingredients.
- Seasonal Flavor: Enjoy the taste of fresh, seasonal produce in every bite.
- Artisanal Cheese: Savor the creamy, tangy flavor of local goat cheese.