16 Best Southern Restaurants near Chapel Hill

“Tonya's Cookies & Bake Shop is a delightful place where you can find a variety of tasty treats. From the delicious Carolina Cake to the mouthwatering chocolate pecan pie, everything is just perfect. The warm and welcoming service adds to the experience, making it a must-visit spot. Don't forget to try the famous pecan crisps and the variety of donuts and cookies - they are a favorite among many customers.“

“Experience southern cuisine at its finest at The Flying Biscuit Cafe in Chapel Hill. Indulge in creamy grits and delicious biscuits for breakfast. Enjoy outstanding service from friendly waitstaff like AJ, who recommends the cheesy scrambled eggs. Quick service, beautiful scenery, and fantastic food make this a must-visit spot.“

“Overdue Review. My angel of a Father back in 2007 recommended Crook's Corner. I so enjoyed your shrimp and grits back then. In honor of my Father who passed away 4/5/22, I will be waiting for the re-opening of Crook's Corner. My husband and I will reserve a table for 3. Love you, Daddy Thank you for a great memory at Crooks Corner.“

“Time-Out Restaurant - East Franklin serves big, tasty burgers and delicious hand-tossed thin crust pizzas like the "all meatza" with plenty of toppings. The restaurant has a cool history and a friendly owner who cares about their customers. They offer a variety of food, like pork biscuits and cinnamon rolls, but may require you to order combos instead of a la carte. The staff is respectful and helpful, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all diners. A must-visit spot for those looking for a warm and inclusive dining experience.“

“Walt's Grill is a soul food restaurant that offers amazing and tasteful dishes. The friendly owners create a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Customers enjoy dishes like smothered pork chops, fried okra, and macaroni & cheese. The food is full of flavor, with options like fried pork chops, fried chicken, collards, black-eyed peas, and mashed potatoes with brown gravy. Visitors appreciate the reasonable prices and the opportunity to chat with the cook, server, and owner. The restaurant provides a warm and inviting dining experience reminiscent of a home-cooked meal.“

“Carolina Coffee Shop is a sweet local spot with cozy vibes and generous portions. The CCS Classic Omlete is a favorite among visitors. The restaurant offers great coffee and delicious food, like the Eggs Jennifer with poached eggs, spinach, and avocado. Despite occasional slow service, it's a wonderful breakfast place close to campus. Customers appreciate the extra mile the staff goes, such as writing special notes and providing mini cakes for celebrations.“

“Mama Dip's Kitchen offers classic country-style cooking with a family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has been a favorite for over 43 years, known for its vegetarian options like the vegetable plate. While some find the food quality inconsistent, dishes like dark meat chicken and gravy are highlights. Despite changes, Mama Dip's remains a legendary spot in Chapel Hill for home-cooked southern meals.“

“Succotash Durham - Southern & Creole Kitchen is a restaurant known for its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere. Favorites on the menu include the smoked brisket plate, jambalaya, gumbo, and brisket empanadas. Even those who aren't fans of cauliflower have praised the hot honey cauliflower appetizer. The banana foster is a popular choice for dessert. With friendly customer service and a family-owned vibe, this restaurant is highly recommended for quality food and good vibes.“

“Lula and Sadie’s is a charming restaurant with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The space is creatively utilized with various seating sections, including a rooftop area and a bar. The food is described as amazing, with particular praise for the shrimp salad. The restaurant supports local artists and hosts live jazz brunches. On special occasions, like anniversaries, guests may receive complimentary treats like sweet potato pie and red velvet cake. While some dishes like fried chicken may not meet expectations, the okra is recommended. The staff are friendly and accommodating, making the overall experience enjoyable.“

“GRUB Durham is a popular spot for brunch and lunch, offering a variety of options including vegetarian choices. The menu features favorites like the Cobb salad with fried chicken, burgers, sandwiches, and brisket. The restaurant has a fun atmosphere with outdoor and rooftop seating, as well as a partially covered area upstairs. The staff is friendly, and despite possible lines, they move steadily. Parking is available on the street or a short walk away. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and kid-friendly, with options for indoor, outdoor, and rooftop seating. It's a great spot to grab a meal, with a good variety of options to suit different tastes.“

“Acme Food & Beverage Co. serves delicious dishes, including mouth-watering Brussel sprouts, fried chicken, pulled pork, and Coquilles St. Jacques. Their eggs Benedict is also a highlight. While service can be slow, especially at busy times, the food's great flavor and good ingredients make up for it.“

“401 Main offers a fantastic outdoor space perfect for pets with various shaded areas. The food is described as flavorful and fresh, with a standout house sauce. The service is top-notch, with friendly and helpful staff like Wayne. Inside, there is a cozy bar area, perfect for colder days. While some dishes like the fried pickles were a bit salty, the meatball sandwich and chicken orzo soup were highly praised. The staff worked seamlessly as a team, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Overall, a great spot with a fantastic vibe and delicious food, perfect for a casual meal or game day.“

“My husband and I absolutely love Aidan's Pizza! We love that it is a small family business with great prices, excellent customer service, and high quality food. We have ordered many times and are always thoroughly satisfied with our meal. The Cheese Steak is delicious: perfectly cooked meat, toasty bread, cheesy, and well seasoned! We have tried the cheese sticks (the small is very generous!), the Kickin Tarheel Pizza, the Sweet Carolina Pizza, the Greek Goddess pizza (pictured), and the Caprese pizza. The pizzas are always fresh with generous toppings and delicious crust. Give Aidan's a try - you're missing out otherwise!“

“Country Junction Restaurant serves great breakfast plates and really good, inexpensive comfort food that's perfect for families. The restaurant has wheelchair accessibility and is a convenient stop, despite some safety concerns in the parking area.“

“Roots Guatemalan Grill & Bar is a great spot to grab a drink and snack, with plenty of seating and a lively atmosphere. The new chef has elevated the food to amazing, with a wide menu offering something for everyone. Enjoy top-notch service, multiple TVs for sports, and daily/happy hour specials in a spacious setting with ample parking.“

“Cracker Barrel Old Country Store offers a pleasant and welcoming dining experience despite some recent corporate decisions. The menu changes include the removal of the USDA Grade Sirloin and the addition of the New York Strip Steak, which some find less appealing. However, options like the classic sampler provide good value for money. Parking can be a challenge during busy times, with potential half-hour waits, but using the app can help. The restaurant is family-friendly, with a store section featuring overpriced toys and glassware. The country fried steak is a tasty choice, although some may find the sides on the same plate a bit concerning. The highlight is the coca cola cake, which is described as having a deliciously crunchy top. Overall, Cracker Barrel offers decent home-style cooking and a unique, country-themed environment filled with interesting collections. Despite initial reservations, many have become fans of the restaurant for its welcoming atmosphere and accommodating service.“