Best Restaurants in Durham (2025)

A storied fine-dining landmark reborn by chef Matt Kelly, Nanas blends Durham history with polished, seasonal cooking and a deep wine list. Celebrated by Eater Carolinas and highlighted in Axios’s 2025 Triangle best list.

Chef Michael Lee’s intimate flagship sets the regional standard for pristine fish and refined omakase. A perennial critics’ pick and a fixture in Eater Carolinas and Axios best-of lists, with strong ties to Durham’s downtown revival.

Matt Kelly’s Spanish-meets-Southern tapas house remains a downtown anchor with sherry breadth and seasonal small plates. Frequently recommended by Eater Carolinas and ranked among Durham essentials by local critics.

James Beard Award winner Ricky Moore champions North Carolina catch with chalkboard menus and hush honeys. Featured widely, from Southern Living to local press, and beloved for its daily-changing coastal simplicity.

Chef Oscar Diaz cooks playful, personal Mexican American dishes through a global lens. Noted in The New York Times and Food & Wine and ranked among the Triangle’s best by Axios in 2024 and 2025.

A wood-fired staple with airy crusts and market-driven toppings, Toro helped define downtown’s dining comeback. Consistently praised by Axios and local editors for its lively room and focused menu.

Old West Durham’s quintessential French bistro—steak frites, escargots, and a classic wine list—run by a long-standing local restaurant group. Recognized by Axios and Durham Magazine readers for enduring excellence.

Cuiying “Emma” Liu’s tiny shop turns out handmade northeastern Chinese dumplings, wontons, and roujiamo. A beloved locals’ pick featured by Eater Carolinas and local guides; takeout-focused and fiercely authentic.

Durham’s Ethiopian standard-bearer serves vibrant tibs and vegan spreads over injera on a sunny Brightleaf patio. A regular in local best-of lists and praised by community critics for warm hospitality and big flavors.

Whole-hog barbecue with wood smoke, heritage-breed pork, and classic sides, endorsed by Southern Living and celebrated by local writers. A true taste of North Carolina tradition within city limits.

Brightleaf’s Creole-leaning charmer channels Gulf flavors—oysters, gumbo, and cocktails—through a Durham lens. Lauded by OpenTable diners and noted by local media for festive energy before or after DPAC shows.