One of the best ways to get to know a new place is through its food. I was lucky enough to be in Durham for five years, through undergrad and the MMS program, giving me a lot of time to explore the local food scene. While I hope everyone will go on a gastronomy tour of their own, here’s a curated list of my favorite food spots to get started.

Casual Eats in Durham

• Dain’s Place: My favorite place to get a hot dog or a burger. 
• Ideals Sandwich Shop: Only open for short windows throughout the week, Ideals is a must-try lunch spot. Order the chopped cheese — it’s life-changing. 
• Cook Out: If you’re looking for good, cheap fast food, this is the place for you. Cook Out is a North Carolina staple, and the chain does not have many locations outside of the state. 
• Ponysaurus Brewing Co.: This brewery operates a walk-up pizzeria. As someone who likes some heart, my favorite the Hot Soppressata, Calabrian Chilies & Honey Pie is my go-to. But the menu has something for just above everyone. 
• Heavenly Buffaloes: The best place to get wings, bone-in and boneless. I also think their waffle fries are pretty good.

Global Flavors

• Mezcalito: My favorite place on the planet! They have the best Mexican food and drinks around.
• Juju: Here you’ll find Asian-fusion tapas. My favorites are the pulled beef short rib wonton and spicy tuna bites.
• Mateos: An amazing place if you’re craving Latin-style tapas.
• Szechuan Mansion Hotpot: Great for group dining and spice lovers.
• Sister Liu’s: I love to get the dumplings here!
• Lime and Lemon: A great place to get Indian food.
• Maggiano’s Little Italy: This is my favorite Italian restaurant. Everything on the menu is amazing.
• Cucciolo Osteria: Another great Italian spot. My favorite dish is the Prosciutto di San Daniele and the spicy vodka tomato cream rigatoni. 
• Parizade: This is a Mediterranean restaurant, but I really like their gnocchi alla vodka. 
• Mothers & Sons Trattoria: It’s hard to pick just one dish to recommend — everything is pretty good!

Upscale and Special Occasion

• The Angus Barn: It can get a little pricey, but Angus Barn is a unique steakhouse and great for a special occasion.
• Nanas: Another great spot to celebrate something special.
• Local 22: This is a farm-to-table restaurant with a unique presence. It’s also close to Duke.
• Viceroy: Amazing Indian food with a fancier feel.
• M Sushi / M Test Kitchen / M Pocha: All part of the M Restaurant Group, these restaurants are very unique. Be ready to explore some new dishes, especially at M Test Kitchen, where I’ve enjoyed a few interesting creations.

Coffee, Desserts, and Brunch

• Aaktun Coffee: Try the lavender matcha.
• Simon Says Dip: There are many dipped cone varieties to choose from.
• Jeni’s Ice Cream: Unique and fun flavor combinations.
• Maple View Farm Ice Cream: Maple View Farm requires a little bit of a drive, but the creamiest ice cream and beautiful views are worth it, especially at sunset.
• Guglhupf: This is an amazing place to get breakfast or lunch. The restaurant has a nice vibe, both inside and outside on the expansive patio.
• It’s a Southern Thing: A good brunch place with bottomless mimosas.

Student Favorites, Hidden Gems and Honorable Mentions

• Brewery Bhavana: This one was suggested by a friend, Peniel Daspan, and I agree. It’s a local staple.
• Bida Manda: Erin Heyeck, an MMS: FOB ’25 classmate, located right next door to Brewery Bhavana in Raleigh, Bida Manda is a must-try spot for foodies. Plan ahead with a reservation to make sure you get a table!
• The Parlour: Recommended by Tory Kim, another MMS: FOB classmate, The Parlour offers unique ice cream flavors in Downtown Durham. There’s often a line out the door, which shows how in demand the ice cream is.
• Durham Food Hall: A central spot for a variety of quick eats and drinks.
• The Original Q Shack: Go here for the true taste of North Carolina BBQ, and you will not be disappointed.
• Elmo’s Diner: A classic diner with solid breakfast and lunch options.
• Succotash Southern and Creole Kitchen: We went here for a bourbon tasting, and it was amazing. Try the gumbo!

I could keep going and going! Whether you’re looking for a cozy brunch, a quick bite between classes, or a spot to celebrate a big milestone, the Triangle has you covered. These places have made my Duke journey even more memorable, and I hope they add flavor to yours, too.