The Refectory Cafe

Came into the restaurant and was not even greeted properly. But the white people behind me were immediately ushered in. I sat at a high top where I waited 10 minutes to be greeted by a waiter. After taking my order it took another 20 minutes for my food to arrive. The weight of came back after several minutes asking if my food was okay to which I replied could I get more cheese. That took another 10 minutes. My food was cold after that. I asked for a check in the box to take my food out with. He proceeded to do a dessert presentation for another table. Brought in the dessert. And I still didn't have my check or to go box. The service is terrible if you are black. The food took too long to come out. And it took too long to get a check. The food was cold by the time I got my cheese. Overall abysmal service. And food

This was my first time going to this location for brunch. The food was delicious and customer service was top notch.

I immediately could tell the ingredients were of higher quality

The Refectory Cafe is a true gem in Durham’s brunch scene. We tried the avocado toast and the breakfast bowl with grits, both of which were flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented. The avocado toast was vibrant and perfectly seasoned, while the breakfast bowl combined creamy grits with hearty ingredients that made for a satisfying start to the day.

We also sampled the chicken and waffles—crispy, tender, and just the right amount of indulgent. What stood out across all dishes was the freshness of the ingredients and the attention to detail in preparation.

The cafe also offers a solid range of vegetarian options, making it an inclusive spot for different dietary preferences. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, and the service was friendly and efficient.

Highly recommend for anyone looking for a fresh, delicious breakfast or brunch in Durham.

Creative menu, good food, not much service, low key atmosphere. Not great value but a solid choice.

This was a "happy little accident"! We originally came over here for Guglhupf, and pulled into this parking lot, decided to go in, and we're more than pleasantly surprised! The food is flavorful, healthy, and I feel full-and clean- eating it! I had the Fresh Strawberry smoothie and Baked Oatmeal. The smoothie is so fresh- like it came from a garden! The Baked Oatmeal is just that! It's crunchy on top from being baked, it's slightly squishy in the middle with blueberries. I love oatmeal and this made my day! My fiance had French Toast and his face lit up! It has not lit up like that in YEARS!! Over the moon happy!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Nice little restaurant out the way. Lots of vegan options.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 3

Recommended dishes: Vegan

Stopped in for breakfast yesterday.

Excellent food.

Unfortunately $50 for breakfast for two is just a bit spendy for us.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 5

Service: 4

Most of the food was very good - the dahl, steak, soups and the desserts were stand outs. The lasagne was good - parmesan cheese was over used and formed a crust we didn't need- we ordered veggie sides as appetizers and they were a bit too oily.

We chose to sit outside with the heater on and it was lovely in mid October. The folks dining inside looked comfortable and the dining room is spacious. Did not drink but the wine menu looked good.

Our server was attentive and pleasant. He misspoke about the pie filling but corrected himself before serving it to us. So, we forgave him and enjoyed the Raspberry Pie so much. Save room for dessert!

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Recommended dishes: Greek Yogurt Cheesecake

Nice leisurely place with nice variety of dishes to please most palates. A great place to spend a long long with friends, as long as they're not too crowded. Have never felt rushed.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

Loved this place. Very friendly to my pups, the food and drinks were delicious. Will definitely be back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Amazing, mouth watering yumminess!!!! We'll definitely be back! Best brunch ever ?? Owner and staff are a delight! ❤️❤️

Dietary restrictions: Gluten free bread is amazing!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Toast, Vegan, Dessert

Had a really great brunch meal today with a friend. The vegetarian quiche was really good. The space is also lovely. I could actually here my friend talk.

Great, classic American foods with choices on the menu for everyone! I am celiac, my son isn't, and we both had a delicious breakfast and lattes!

Dietary restrictions: Gluten free, dairy free options clearly marked with knowledgeable staff!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Came to town for a wedding in Durham. Plenty of good breakfast and lunch options. The Rise & Shine breakfast was perfect.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5