Durham blends Southern soul with chef-driven creativity—smoky barbecue, biscuit-forward brunches, and meat-and-three plates that feel like home.
These five favorites bring serious comfort with Bull City personality.
Dame’s Chicken & Waffles
A Durham classic, Dame’s pairs perfectly fried chicken with tender waffles and “shmears” (flavored butter spreads) for sweet-savory magic.
Go classic with a honey-dusted waffle and hot sauce on the side, or try a blueberry or sweet potato waffle with maple syrup.
Sides like mac and cheese, collards, and grits add to the Southern comfort symphony. It’s indulgent and absolutely worth the wait.
Copa
For Cuban comfort with a refined, local-ingredients ethos, Copa is a gem. Ropa vieja (shredded, slow-braised beef) over rice and beans, garlicky mojo chicken, and maduros hit all the right notes.
The cassava fritters and croquetas are irresistible starters, while desserts like flan are silky and nostalgic.
Cocktails skew classic Caribbean with fresh citrus and rum.
The Original Q Shack
When only barbecue will do, Q Shack comes through.
Brisket and pulled pork are smoke-kissed and tender, ribs have a satisfying tug, and the smoked turkey is a sleeper hit.
Sides are pure comfort: hushpuppies, baked beans, and mac and cheese with a rich, creamy pull. Grab banana pudding if you see it—it disappears fast.
True Flavors Diner
This modern diner takes Southern staples and elevates them without losing the comfort.
Chicken and waffles, shrimp and grits, and biscuits big as your palm headline brunch, while lunch brings meatloaf melts, tomato soup with grilled cheese, and hearty salads that still feel indulgent.
Daily specials keep regulars interested, and the coffee is strong.
Nana’s
A beloved Durham name brought back to life, Nana’s serves seasonal, ingredient-driven comfort in a warmly lit room perfect for lingering.
Expect roast chicken with pan jus, gnocchi with braised short rib, and silky soups in cooler months.
The bread service and thoughtful desserts—panna cotta, fruit crisps—make it feel special without being stuffy.
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