38 Best American Restaurants in Durham

1

Nanas

Nanas Fine Dining • $$$
2514 University Dr, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Braised Beef Short Rib over Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Artichokes
Roasted Beets with Gorgonzola
Twice Baked Grits Souffle
Tomato & Fried Okra Salad
Oysters on the Half Shell
Flourless Chocolate Cake
Banana Pudding Bombe
Chocolate Souffle
Scallop Milanese
Roasted Oysters

“This place is a true GEM to Durham! I celebrated my birthday here with a group of 17 people and from the initial conversation with the staff they were extremely efficient, professional and accommodating! And the food…the food was incredible! The drinks were made perfectly, the service was top notch and the atmosphere was very accommodating. I 100% recommend this place, no matter the occasion! Thank you all for accommodating my large group and making sure we had an unforgettable evening.“

4.5 Superb264 Reviews
Alley Twenty Six New American • $$
320 E Chapel Hill St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Alley Burger with Foie Gras
Blistered Shishito Peppers
Oysters on the Half Shell
The Mandatory Green Salad
Alley Burger with Bacon
Alley Breakfast Plate
Buffalo Cauliflower
Pork Belly Sliders
Charcuterie Board
Brussels Sprouts

“I love Ally 26, the atmosphere is wonderful. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. The drink selection creative with many great options to choose from.“

4.6 Superb166 Reviews
Page Road Grill Southern • $
5416 Page Rd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Crab Cakes Corn Salsa Red Chili Aioli Crispy Southern Peas
Pan Roasted Brussels Sprouts Baconseños
Salmon Dish over Black Eyed Peas
Shrimp and Grits with Mushrooms
Scallops Rice Andouille Sausage
Buffalo Chicken Bites
Smoked Chicken Salad
Blackened Catfish
Turkey Sandwich
Shrimp & Grits

“Food was good and served quick. Service was outstanding. We sat in the bar area and our server was quick“

4.4 Superb158 Reviews
Clouds Brewing Brightleaf Square Brewpubs • $
Brightleaf Square, 905 W Main St #22, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Chicken and Waffles with Maple Syrup N Honey
Sweet Potato Waffle Fries
Blackened Chicken Pasta
Blackened Salmon Salad
Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Dirty Heaven Sandwich
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Sumbo Chicken Wings
Short Rib Sandwich
Cauliflower Bites

“The food is great. Very well managed. I’ll definitely go back!“

4.5 Superb84 Reviews
Littler New American • $$$
110 E Parrish St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Brussels Sprouts
Pickled Shrimp
Smoked Trout

“Intimate restaurant with an intimate menu. Excellent presentation and preparation“

4.3 Superb88 Reviews
Lakewood Social American • $
1920 Chapel Hill Rd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Cheese with Curry Fries
Grilled Chicken Doner Kebab
Fried Oyster Mushrooms
Spicy Chicken Sandwich
Chicken Caesar Wrap
Burger and Fries
Chicken Tenders
Whipped Ricotta
Turkey Rachel
Smashburger

“Had very relaxing time with family. The food was enjoyable.“

4.7 Superb132 Reviews
Local 22 Kitchen & Bar American • $$
2200 W Main St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Hamburger with Sweet Potato Fries
Burnt Brussels Sprouts
Cast-Iron Hush Puppies
Local Shrimp & Grits
Pimento Cheese Dip
Warm Bread Pudding
Lamb Cheeseburger
Lamb Sausage Pizza
Skillet Cornbread
Berry French Toast

“Everything! Such a lovely atmosphere and amazing food!“

4.5 Superb262 Reviews
Vista Restaurant American • $$
Parking lot, 3001 Cameron Blvd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

French Press Coffee
Vista Breakfast

“We had a lovely meal in this restaurant. Beet salad and a delicious prawn cocktail with huge prawns to start. The pork with mushroom vol au vent was excellent as was the lamb loin with squash dauphinoise. The extensive wine list is excellent.“

4.6 Superb89 Reviews
The Blue Note Grill American • $
709 Washington St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

BBQ Ribs and Pulled Pork Hush Puppies Mac N Cheese and Bacon Green Beans
Pulled Rib Meat Sandwich and Mac N Cheese
Half Rack of Ribs with Brunswick Stew
Classic Burger Without Cheese
Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Pulled Chicken Sandwich
Alaska Wild Wing Bites
Pulled Pork BBQ Plate
Bread Pudding Shooter
Redneck Cheese Fries

“Absolutely delicious food and amazing service!!! 10 out of 10 !!!“

4.4 Superb128 Reviews
Tony Roma's American • $$
151 Tatum Dr, Durham

Customers` Favorites

House Chop Salad Side Salads
World Famous Baby Back Ribs
Onion Loaf and Potato Skins
Filet Medallions Rib Combo
Blueberry & Peach Cobbler
World-Famous Onion Loaf
Chicken Spinach Stack
Buffalo Chicken Wings
Chicken Caesar Salad
Shrimp Salmon Piccata

“I love a good ribeye, Tony Roma's served me the best, most perfectly cooked, tender ribeye I have EVER eaten in my life! The mashed potatoes and green beans were perfect as well! This was a fantastic meal and our server Vee was fantastic as well. we left miserably full and we will be going back!“

4.3 Superb169 Reviews
Nasher Cafe American • $$
2001 Campus Dr, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Wild Mushroom Salad
Steak Benedict
Hamburger

“OUTSTANDING!!! my family and I were there for the art exhibit and we had dinner there. the food was amazing and the staff was kind and accommodating. Do yourself a favor and spend a little time in this wonderful Cafe you will not be disappointed !!“

4.5 Superb60 Reviews
The Loop Restaurant American • $
1116 Broad St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Creamy French Onion Soup with Melted Swiss & Croutons
Loop Burger with Warm Blue Cheese Fries
Loop Burger with Steak Fries
Great American Cheeseburger
Grilled Chicken and Jack
Fresh Mozzarella Pizza
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Barbecue Chicken Pizza
Farmer's Market Pizza
Bacon Cheddar Burger

“Affordable and good food for lunch“

4.2 Good121 Reviews
Heavenly Buffaloes American • $
2816 Erwin Rd Suite 205, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Boneless Wings and Sweet Potato Waffle Fries
Chicken Wings - Ginger & Garlic
Sweet Thai Coconut Chili
Carolina Honey Mustard
Idaho Waffle Fries
Chicken Sandwich
8 Boneless Wings
Buffalo Medium
Celery Carrots
Buffalo Wings

“Just had a fabulous salad and wings at the Erwin Rd store. Really delicious. Great place to have lunch and watch the game. Good vibe and fast friendly service from Victoria. Highly recommended.

Dietary restrictions: They also have delicious VEGAN wings

Kid-friendliness: They have a great menu that is kid friendly. What kids doesn’t like wings and waffle fries

Wheelchair accessibility: Restaurant is all on one level. Elevator access from parking lot.“

4.2 Good115 Reviews
Plum Southern Kitchen & Bar American • $$
501 Washington St C, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Heirloom Tomato Salad
Cheddar Drop Biscuits
Shrimp and Grits
Pimento Biscuits
Beef Stroganoff
Snapper Special
Cast Iron Steak
Banana Pudding
Shrimp & Grits
Chocolate Cake

“Thanksgiving Day feast was wonderful. Food well prepared and tasty. Service was impeccable. Price reasonable. Owner was gracious and has doneca great job with food and staff. Highly recommend.“

4.2 Good110 Reviews
Hayti Collective Kitchen & Cocktails American • $
908-101 Fayetteville St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Salmon and Smoked Gouda Sandwich
Cobb Salad

“They have fire live music! R & B night every Tuesday night, and live jazz every Wednesday. And it’s worth mentioning it that their breakfast selection is top notch as well.“

4.7 Superb24 Reviews
Devine's Restaurant & Sports Bar American • $
904 W Main St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Cheesburger and Fries with Cheese
Chicken Wings

“Good food, great staff, and good comedy on Monday nights.“

4.4 Superb41 Reviews
Ted's Montana Grill American • $$
6911 Fayetteville Rd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Bison Burger with Swiss Cheese
Bison New York Strip 12 Oz
Salt & Pepper Onion Rings
Bison Meatloaf Sandwich
Loaded Bison Nachos
House Made Pickles
Parmesan Broccoli
Bison Filet 8 Oz
Bison Short Ribs
Buffalo Burger

“Lizi was absolutely amazing! Made the experience so much better!“

4.1 Good139 Reviews
William's Gourmet Kitchen American • $
2114 NC-54, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Bacon Lovers Burger and Beer Battered French Fries
Honey Stung Chicken Sandwich with Fries
Strawberry Pecan Salad with Chicken
Turkey Bacon Avocado Sandwich
Bacon Cheeseburger and Fries
Classic Philly Takeout: Yes
Mediterranean Chicken Pita
Triple Berry French Toast
Mushroom Swiss Burger
Philly Cheese Steak

“First time eating there this morning.I ordered the Grilled Chicken. Sandwich and Onion Rings! ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS!!! THE STAFF WAS AMAZING! NOW I NEED TO TRY THE BREAKFAST“

4.2 Good70 Reviews
American Hero Restaurant Durham American • $
2011 N Roxboro St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Ham Salami and Cheese Sub
Potato or Macaroni Salad
Fountain Drink & Chips
German Chocolate Cake
Strawberry Cheesecake
Turkey and Cheese Sub
Hot or Sweet Pickles
Hot or Sweet Peppers
Turkey Bacon & Swiss
Meatball Sandwich

“I'm a native upstate New Yorker, and if you're looking for a traditional hoagie from the region -- this is it. They fresh cut meat and cheese right in front of you, bread is all fresh baked in-house, and they have macaroni salad. What else could you want? It's a bit rundown, but the sandwiches are killer. Since moving to Durham, I am there once a week at least.

If you don't eat meat, highly recommend getting a cheese sandwich, toasted -- and rolling with whatever jokes these Greek guys throw at you. Part of the charm.“

4.2 Good61 Reviews
Grill 46 American • $
121 Sherron Rd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich
The Caution Breakfast
Breakfast Sandwich
Bacon Cheeseburger
Fried Zucchini
Banana Pudding
Hash Browns
Onion Rings
Potato Salad
Fried Okra

“great food and customer service“

4.3 Superb41 Reviews
The Dog House American • $
931 N Miami Blvd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

American Classic Burger
Chicken Salad Sandwich
Beef Tailwagger Combo
Brunswick Stew Pint
Hot Apple Turnover
Hot Dog and Fries
French Fries
Boxer Dog
Hound-Dog
Chili Dog

“I am a picky burger snob. That being said, I was glad I tried their burger. It's becoming harder and harder to find a good burger. These burgers are good, they are real and they are a good price. I had a double burger all the way and the price was about $7. Cheaper and wayyy better than fast food processed and questionable beef. I will be stopping when I pass through again! I will add a little salt next time also.“

4.3 Superb40 Reviews
Currents Cafeteria American • $
3002 N Roxboro St, Durham

“It’s my first time eating here and I loved the food. I had egg and cheese omelets, home fries, bacon, and a fish patty. It was all very good. The staff were friendly and the I liked the atmosphere of the cafeteria. The only con I can think of is that I live so far away. I stopped by here on the way to a doctor’s appointment and I’m glad I did. I apologize for posting a photo of a partially eaten breakfast but I was enjoying this meal before I thought to take a picture.“

4.5 Superb25 Reviews
The Restaurant at The Durham American • $$
315 E Chapel Hill St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

French Toast Fried Chicken
Pan Seared Black Bass
Cheese & Charcuterie
Guac and Toast
House Burger

“I want to express praise and gratitude to Desmond at the Durham Hotel. I had been calling the rooftop restaurant for a couple of weeks to try and modify a reservation for a birthday party and after five or six attempts, they had not called me back. I eventually called the hotel and Desmond answered and even though it is completely separate and outside of his job responsibilities, he took down all my information and reached out to them on my behalf . Desmond was able to modify my reservation so that I did not have to drive down there an hour each way. He was very professional and I enjoyed talking with him. He is definitely in the right line of work because I felt like I was talking to a friend. Details matter, and Customer Service should still matter. Thank you, Desmond!! Sincerely, William / reservation 9546“

4 Good123 Reviews
V's Kitchen Soul Food • $
2945 S Miami Blvd Ste 127, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Oxtails Mac and Cheese Collard Greens Cornbread
Fried Pork Chop Sandwich
3 Piece Chicken Dinner
Three Cheese Macaroni
Fried Fish and Shrimp
Sweet Chili Cabbage
Hamburger Scramble
Fried Wing Dinner
3 Cheese Macaroni
Chicken Sandwich

“Excellent food and service. Always a pleasure.“

4.5 Superb260 Reviews
First Watch Breakfast • $
5307 New Hope Commons Blvd Ext, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Traditional Breakfast Add 1 Pancake Special
Truffled Wild Mushroom Frittata
Cinnamon Chip Pancake Breakfast
Blueberry Multigrain Pancakes
Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos
Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast
Ham and Gruyere Omelette
Lone Star Brisket Hash
Floridian French Toast
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes

“Had a great experience here ! Taylor was a great server , will definitely be back and will be asking for her !!“

4.5 Superb245 Reviews
Farmside Kitchen New American • $
5431 Page Rd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

The Root Veggie Bowl
Little Farmer Bowl
The Local Farmer
Southwest Salad
Sourdough Bread
Grilled Chicken
Southwest Bowl
The Pitchfork
Shredded Kale
Avocado Toast

“Absolutely delicious! Wish you had a location in Greensboro,NC !!“

4.5 Superb214 Reviews
The Dog House American • $
3521 Hillsborough Rd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Beef Tailwagger Combo
Hot Apple Turnover
French Fries Large
BBQ Sandwich Deal
All Beef Hotdog
German Shepherd
Brunswick Stew
Sausage Dog
BBQ Platter
Collie Dog

“Cool little hot dog spot, serving up a selection of hot dog toppings with great little names. Affordable and easygoing service! Ohhhh and thick-cut fried bologna sandwiches.... iykyk kind of place! If I'm ever in that area I'll definitely be back!“

4 Good51 Reviews
First Watch Breakfast • $
5419 Page Rd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Banana Almond Crunch Pancake Breakfast
Farm Stand Breakfast Tacos
The Elevated Egg Sandwich
Lemon Ricotta Pancakes
Farmhouse Skillet Hash
Traditional Breakfast
Million Dollar Bacon
Crab Cakes Benedict
Blueberry Pancakes
Biscuits and Gravy

“A whole vibe for sure . Loved JJ. Will be back“

4.5 Superb211 Reviews
Newton's Restaurant & Lounge American • $$
4700 Guardian Dr, Durham

Customers` Favorites

New York Cheesecake

“It was our 40th wedding anniversary and we had an amazing experience at Newtons. Our server Dee was very nice and made sure we had everything. Our favorite was Brie. She made sure everyone was happy and even made us this beautiful dessert plate big enough for our entire family. We will def come back.“

4 Good20 Reviews
The Skillet American •
416 Chapel Dr, Durham
4.4 Superb5 Reviews
Hawk Dogs American • $
515 W Pettigrew St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Beef Hot Dog

“I had one of those Hawkdogs this past Saturday at our Neighborhood’s Block Party. The hot dog tasted incredible and that chili was out-of-sight. I can’t wait to see what the hamburgers taste like. I will definitely be buying from them again!“

4 Good9 Reviews
Devil's Krafthouse American • $
Durham

“Atmosphere is awesome and food was good“

3.8 Good17 Reviews
Foster's Market Cafe • $
2694 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Tarragon Chicken Salad
Daily Omelet Special
The Herbie Bird Wrap
Thai Chicken Wrap
Breakfast Burrito
Breakfast Biscuit
Breakfast Sandwich
Bacon Egg Biscuit
Huevos Rancheros
Turkey Sandwich

“Loved the friendly atmosphere and dog friendly“

4.5 Superb133 Reviews
Table South Kitchen & Bar American • $
201 Foster St, Durham

“Stayed at the hotel for the weekend. They warned us at checkin that the dining hadorw limited hours.

The bar was set from 4pm-11pm and the kitchen from 5pm-10pm.

We had gotten in around 9pm and a lot of people were just lounging on the area without food, so we approached the bar to ask for a table to eat, they told us we could sit anywhere, then came right over with a menu and took our drink order.

We ordered the Stuffed Avocado and Cheesecake.

I didn't love the stuffed avocado. It was more like salsa with avocado and sweet potatoes and onions.

Obviously that did not pair well with the cheesecake!

So we ate out veggies, cleared our pallettes with our drinks, and then chowed down on the cheesecake served with ice cream. That was delicious. Nothing out of the ordinary, but fresh and served with two spoons to share.

They were very attentive, keeping the water glasses full and asking if we would like more drinks as we would finish.

Overall, recommended!

Distinguish yourself as a person interested in food or drinks, else you will be assumed to be part of the lounging crowd.“

3.7 Good23 Reviews
Boricua Soul at American Tobacco Campus Soul Food • $
705 Willard St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Southern Fried Chicken and Maduro Waffle
Pernil Mac and Best of Both Bowl
Pernil Y Arroz Con Gandules
Beef Empanada BBQ Empanada
Sweet Potato Cheesecake
Mojo Chicken Empanada
Beer Battered Fries
Cheesecake Empanada
Best of Both Worlds
Pernil Mac Fry Pile

“Great food, great atmosphere, great owners! Cubano was terrific!“

4.4 Superb142 Reviews
Nantucket Grill Bar & Grill • $$
5826 Fayetteville Rd #101, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Nantucket Island Stuffed Tilapia
Spicy Nantucket Seafood Pasta
Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake
Fresh Maine Lobster Roll
Blackened Salmon Salad
Triple Chocolate Cake
Chocolate Bliss Cake
Nantucket Nachos
Jambalaya Pasta
Fish and Chips

“I have ordered several custom cakes for special occasions and they have all been delicious! I have a gluten and dairy intolerance and they do an amazing job accommodating both and taking the time to discuss with me my options for cake, frosting and filling flavors. The rest of my family (who can eat gluten and dairy) even LOVE these cakes. They say that they can't tell the difference! The chocolate cake is our favorite.“

4.3 Superb237 Reviews
Bull City Burger and Brewery Brewpubs • $
107 E Parrish St, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Sweet Potato Fries
Caramelized Onions
The Secret Burger
Bacon Marmalade
Pimento Burger
Duck Fat Fries
Veggie Burger
Shadoe Burger
Fried Pickles
Pickled Stuff

“This burger place and brewery has tasty burgers, very interesting thin fries, and something I didn’t know I was missing: fried pickles! Simple but mind blowing really - this taste of fried, sliced, pickles. Besides the food I also really enjoyed the Bryant Bridge Gateway Ale! Service was friendly, and the vibe inside was great! Nice place for an after work pint!“

4.3 Superb231 Reviews
Wayback Burgers Hamburger • $
4104 Surles Ct UNIT 2, Durham

Customers` Favorites

Grilled Buffalo Chicken Sandwich
Double Bacon Cheeseburger
Wayback Dog Takeout: Yes
Hot Dog - Craft Your Own
Wayback Classic Burger
Philly Cheese Steak
Double Bacon Burger
Chili Cheese Fries
Bacon Cheese Fries
Chili Cheese Dog

“Our family enjoys the burgers here and the staff are very friendly. Great service and great food. 👍“

4.5 Superb97 Reviews