18 Essential Restaurants in Durham, North Carolina

"At first glance, Copa might just look like another a high-end dining option on Main Street, but closer inspection will reveal a menu full of expert takes on Cuban cuisine, combined with a dedication to North Carolina’s local foodways and a commitment to bettering the restaurant industry for all. Co-owners Elizabeth Turnbull and Robert Copa Matos fought for servers, bartenders, kitchen staff, and more during the pandemic, advocating for local, state, and federal assistance, and taking a lead in organizing downtown Durham restaurants in an effort to survive Covid-19. That work continues today, and diners can support it by tucking in to plates of Cuban tapas, crab cake croquetas, and ropa vieja." - Matt Lardie