The buzz is that Durham is the new foodie town. When limited to campus eateries, this might seem untrue. Restaurants where?! Next time you are bored of campus food or have a special occasion, try one of these places and see what everyone is taking about!
Babbaganouj:
Authentic, well-priced, delicious Lebanese food in large portions—what more could you ask for? The only downfall with this place is that they don’t do home deliveries. Try a platter if you’re feeling hungry, or one of the filling wraps (which have everything from meat to French fries and hummus in them)! The food is all very fresh and healthy. This place is perfect for grabbing lunch or a casual dinner with your friends. There are two locations.
Guglhupf:
This German bakery is perfect for a weekend brunch. Although it is a bit of a drive, it is well worth it. There is inside and outside seating (for those long summer afternoons). Try the pancakes – they are delicious! Great atmosphere for brunch with the girls or even a great study spot later in the afternoon, as it gets quieter. But beware: you won’t be able to stop munching!
Fosters Market:
Right next to Guglhupf is Fosters Market, a market-style restaurant with a wide variety of food and desserts. This place is more for the summer, as the outside benches are a great spot to hang out with friends and soak up the sun. Get together with a group of friends and make the drive: definitely worth it! (Beware of the holiday themed displays by the counter: very hard to resist.)
604 West Village:
604 West Village is a more upscale restaurant in Durham. The décor is trendy yet rustic, with brick walls and dark wood furniture, and the food is simple yet delicious. The portions are huge so watch out! This place is perfect for a date or a nice birthday dinner with friends.
Hong Kong:
Probably the best Chinese food in Durham, and probably the only place with dim sum in the area. Located close to campus, it’s filled with locals who are frequent customers. This place is perfect for dinner with friends when you’re craving Chinese food…say bye to those white take out boxes and visit Hong Kong before you start dialing to order in! Try the Singapore noodles.
Piazza Italia:
Very predictable due to its proximity to Duke, and probably one of the first restaurants that most Duke students visited in Durham. However, the quality of food and service (and the amount of gelato flavours!) makes it worth going back each and every time! Perfect for lunch and dinner with friends or family.
Parizado:
Another great date spot in Durham! Paradizo offers a host of delicious seafood items with a Mediterranean twist. Make sure you leave space for the dessert as there are way too many options to choose from (personal favourite is the Dulce Luna: “Malibu rum flavored white chocolate blankets creamy dark chocolate on top of a chocolate cookie crumb crust”…need I say more?!).
No more excuses for ordering pizza when you’re feeling hungry. Venture out to Durham and see what the newest foodie town has got to offer.