5 Durham Restaurants for an Exceptional Eating Out Experience
2024-04-18
Whether you're a local or just visiting, these five Durham restaurants provide a perfect blend of ambiance and mouth-watering dishes.
1. Namu Korean Eats, Beer Hall & Coffee Bar
Just had an amazing experience at Namu Korean Eats! The grilled beef dishes, from rice to noodles, are absolutely mouth-watering. I tried the scallion pancakes too, which were thick, crispy, and packed with flavor. The place itself has a fantastic vibe, perfect for hanging out with friends or even a peaceful solo workday change of scenery. Loved the tech-savvy ordering via QR codes, though it might take a minute to get the hang of it. The spacious garden sitting area and the cool decor add to the charm, making it a must-visit spot!
Address: 5420 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd, Durham, NC 27707
Phone: (919) 251-9794
2. Hawkers Asian Street Food
Just a stone's throw from UNC, I found myself at Hawkers Asian Street Food, diving into a world of Asian flavors. The crispy pork belly was a standout, arguably the best in North Carolina, and the doughnuts with caramel dipping sauce were a delightful surprise. While some dishes like the Korean fried chicken were a tad too salty, the Seoul hot chicken buns and sticky ribs were absolutely mouthwatering. The atmosphere was lively, making up for the occasional overcooked item. Definitely a spot to revisit for those small plates and vibrant vibes.
Address: 201 S Estes Dr #400A, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Phone: (919) 415-1799
3. Bonchon Chapel Hill
Just steps from campus, Bonchon Chapel Hill is a spot I've been to a few times for a quick bite. Their Korean fried chicken, especially when you mix the soy garlic and spicy sauces, is a game changer—perfect for sharing among friends. I usually go for the medium combo of wings and drumsticks, which is plenty for three. The seasoned fries are also a standout, some of the best I've ever had. While the atmosphere is generally uplifting, I've had a mixed experience with some dishes being too greasy or lacking in flavor. But sitting outside on a nice day makes up for a lot, even with the buzz of the nearby road.
Address: 205 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Phone: (984) 234-0788
4. KoKyu
Just a quick drive and you're at KoKyu, a spot that's all about bold flavors and satisfying eats. I dove into the crunchy peanut chicken bowl, skipping the mint and adding a fried egg—delicious twist! My partner opted for the chili crisp chicken bowl, and I must say, it was equally tantalizing. We've also tried the spicy chicken sandwich and the Korean BBQ with steak and pork belly bowls, swapping rice for veggies. Each dish was packed with flavor. The place seems perfect for takeout with some outdoor seating. Definitely worth a visit for its diverse and mouth-watering menu.
Address: 245 E, NC-54 Ste 105, Durham, NC 27713
Phone: (919) 251-9017
5. M Pocha
Recently ventured about twenty minutes from UNC to try M Pocha, known for its spicy pork with bread alongside a variety of Korean and Japanese dishes. The meat Mandus and Army Stew were standout dishes, truly capturing the essence of Asian flavors. While the service had its ups and downs, the food generally hit the mark with well-seasoned dishes and strong cocktails. The restaurant also made special efforts for celebrations, adding a personal touch to the dining experience. Definitely a spot to consider for a flavorful meal, though some dishes seemed to lack in vegetarian variety.
Address: 101 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701
Phone: (919) 294-9177
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