Embracing the Unexpected: A Culinary Adventure in Durham
When it comes to culinary experiences, I’ve always been the type who craves the unexpected. You know, the kind of meal that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also sparks a sense of curiosity and wonder. So, when I heard about the vibrant food and drink scene in Durham, North Carolina, I knew I had to embark on an adventure of my own.
Curry Up Now: Where Indian Meets California
My journey began at Curry Up Now, a franchise that has brought its unique brand of “Indian-Cali” street food to the thriving UHill district of Durham. As I stepped through the doors, the aroma of spices and sizzling flavors immediately enveloped me, hinting at the culinary delights that awaited.
Tikka masala burritos, naan pizzas, and Indian-inspired poutine – the menu at Curry Up Now reads like a symphony of flavors, seamlessly blending the robust spices of India with the vibrant flair of California cuisine. I couldn’t resist ordering the samosa chaat, a dish that playfully reimagines the classic samosa as a deconstructed salad, complete with tamarind and mint chutneys.
Curry Up Now is a testament to the power of fusion, where traditional recipes are elevated with a modern twist. As I savored each bite, I couldn’t help but marvel at the culinary genius that brought these two distinct culinary worlds together in such a harmonious way.
Co: A Taste of Southeast Asia in the Heart of Durham
Continuing my exploration, I made my way to Co, a Southeast Asian eatery that has found a home in the bustling Southpoint Mall. The moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the restaurant’s inviting ambiance – a comfortable front lounge, a spacious modern interior, and a large covered patio that opened up to an open-air bar counter.
The menu at Co is a veritable feast for the senses, offering everything from sushi and ramen to rice bowls and banh mi. But what truly piqued my interest were the dine-in happy hour specials, which promised to be the perfect accompaniment to my culinary adventure.
I started with the dumplings on Mondays and Wednesdays, savoring the delicate wrappers and bold flavors within. Then, on Tuesdays and Thursdays, I indulged in the half-off sushi rolls, each one a work of art that danced across my palate. And to cap it all off, I couldn’t resist the handcrafted cocktails and Asian fusion desserts, like the heavenly yuzu cheesecake.
As I sat back and sipped my refreshing libation, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement for the culinary journey that lay ahead. The flavors of Southeast Asia had seamlessly integrated with the vibrant energy of Durham, creating a dining experience that was truly one-of-a-kind.
Anjappar: Bringing the Flavors of South India to Durham
Just when I thought I had experienced the full spectrum of flavors in Durham, I stumbled upon Anjappar, a new addition to the city’s culinary landscape. This South Indian restaurant, nestled in the newly built administrative building downtown, promised to take my taste buds on a delicious adventure.
As I perused the thick, comprehensive menu, I was overwhelmed by the sheer variety of dishes on offer. From the iconic dosa, with over 20 varieties to choose from, to the aromatic biryanis and the flaky Parotta Tawa breads, Anjappar had it all. I couldn’t resist the urge to try the biryani, its flavors and spice profile so captivating that I found myself transported to the bustling streets of South India.
Anjappar has already earned a reputation for excellence, and it’s easy to see why. The attention to detail and the commitment to authenticity in every dish is a testament to the culinary prowess of the team behind this hidden gem.
Healthy Havens: Exploring the Fresh and Nutritious Offerings in Durham
As much as I reveled in the bold and exciting flavors of Durham’s culinary scene, I also found myself craving something a little more… virtuous. And that’s when I discovered the healthy havens scattered throughout the city.
At Will & Well, a minority-owned establishment in the Boxyard RTP, I indulged in their signature salads and fresh juices, each one a vibrant explosion of flavors and nutrients. The customizable bowls were packed with hearty, locally sourced ingredients, leaving me feeling nourished and energized.
Next, I ventured to Nautical Bowls, a plant-based oasis offering gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free acai and smoothie bowls. The Nauti Bowl, with its layers of acai, peanut butter, bananas, granola, and cacao nibs, was a true delight for the senses, while the Paddle Bowl, with its tropical coconut and mango, transported me to a beachside paradise.
These healthy havens in Durham proved that nourishing your body doesn’t have to come at the expense of flavor. In fact, they showcased how creativity and attention to quality ingredients can elevate even the most virtuous of dishes.
Delightful Detours: Discovering Durham’s Diverse Culinary Offerings
As I continued to explore the culinary landscape of Durham, I found myself stumbling upon delightful detours that added even more depth and diversity to the city’s food scene.
In the nearby town of Chapel Hill, I discovered El Tesoro, a casual Mexican restaurant that promised to transport me straight to the heart of Mexico. From the authentic stews and handmade tortillas to the house-made salsas and Tex-Mex classics, every bite was a testament to the rich culinary traditions of our neighbors to the south.
Crossing back into Durham, I stumbled upon Emmy Squared, a pizza joint that was redefining the concept of the perfect pie. With its deep, square crust that offered the best of both soft and crispy, this Detroit-style pizza was a revelation. Whether I opted for the classic or the gluten-free version, each slice was a masterclass in balance and flavor.
These delightful detours reminded me that the culinary adventure in Durham was far from over. Around every corner, there was a new discovery waiting to be made, each one more enticing than the last.
Indulgent Delights: Artisanal Ice Cream and Beyond
As if the savory offerings in Durham weren’t enough to tempt my palate, the city also boasted an impressive array of sweet treats that demanded my attention.
At The Can Opener, a food truck park in the heart of downtown, I stumbled upon Andias Ice Cream, a family-owned local favorite that was quickly expanding throughout the Triangle region. With its trendy treats, unforgettable sundaes, and seasonal flavors, Andias was the perfect way to cap off my dining experiences.
But the sweet surprises didn’t stop there. In the North Duke Crossing neighborhood, I discovered Localicious, a Caribbean-inspired ice cream shop that had me dreaming of tropical vacations. From island pound cake to banana grape-nut, the flavor board was a veritable playground for my taste buds, with even some rum-infused options to transport me to the islands.
And let’s not forget the local Black-owned bakery that had me drooling over its decadent cheesecakes, both traditional and vegan. Needless to say, my sweet tooth was more than satisfied during my time in Durham.
Caffeinated Delights and Hidden Gems
As any seasoned explorer knows, no culinary journey is complete without a few caffeinated pit stops along the way. And Durham did not disappoint in this regard.
At Joe Van Gogh’s new SouthCourt branch, I discovered a cozy haven where I could sip on my favorite hot or cold brew while indulging in freshly baked pastries. But the real gem was the bakery tucked away in the suite next door, offering irresistible treats and a sneak peek at the latest creations.
For those in the North Durham area, the hidden gem of North Durham Coffee Lab, nestled within the walls of Body Games Gym, provided the perfect morning pick-me-up. With its limited hours, this local gem was a true oasis for those seeking a quality cup of coffee to kick-start their day.
These caffeinated delights were more than just a source of caffeine; they were reminders of the rich tapestry of local businesses and hidden gems that make Durham’s food and drink scene so vibrant and unique.
Elevated Experiences: Combining Golf, Sports, and Cocktails
As I continued to explore the diverse offerings in Durham, I stumbled upon an unexpected delight – a fusion of golf, sports, and cocktails at State of Golf. This high-class bar and entertainment venue promised to elevate my dining experience to new heights.
With its fully stocked bar, offering a tantalizing array of cocktails, beer, and wine, and its three full-swing golf simulators, State of Golf provided the perfect backdrop for a night out with friends or coworkers. Whether I wanted to showcase my golfing skills or simply enjoy the comfort of the climate-controlled bays while sipping on a refreshing libation, this venue had it all.
But the real highlight was the sheer versatility of the space. From the rooftop terrace with its fire pits to the spacious indoor lounge with its 28-foot video wall, there was no shortage of ways to indulge and entertain. And with the option to bring in your own food, the culinary possibilities were truly endless.
The Up & Under Pub had certainly set the bar high when it came to crafting unique dining and entertainment experiences in Durham. This fusion of sports, technology, and hospitality was a testament to the city’s commitment to innovation and creativity.
Cultural Crossroads: Exploring the Melting Pot of Durham
As I delved deeper into the culinary landscape of Durham, I couldn’t help but be struck by the city’s rich cultural diversity, which was evident in the myriad of cuisines and dining experiences on offer.
Take, for instance, 1953, a modern cafe that pays homage to the year the Ethiopian government sent troops to aid South Korea during the Korean War. This collaboration between the owner of Goorsha Ethiopian restaurant and a Korean family brings together the flavors of Ethiopia and Korea in a harmonious fusion, creating dishes like mango-berbere and ginger-sesame wings that tantalize the senses.
And speaking of Ethiopian cuisine, the city’s own Zwelis Kitchen has recently relocated to Brightleaf Square, where it will continue to delight diners with its flavorful Zimbabwean-inspired dishes. But the culinary journey doesn’t end there – the team has also opened a new venture, Ekhaya, at the American Tobacco Campus, bringing more delectable African eats to the area.
These cultural crossroads in Durham are a testament to the city’s commitment to celebrating diversity and embracing the flavors of the world. From the traditional Boerewors sausage to the creative Bantu-fusion small plates, each dish tells a story of tradition, innovation, and the power of culinary collaboration.
Revived Classics and Newcomers: The Evolving Landscape of Durham’s Dining Scene
As I continued to explore the ever-changing landscape of Durham’s dining scene, I couldn’t help but be struck by the delicate balance between revived classics and exciting newcomers.
Take, for instance, the iconic Nanas restaurant, which has recently undergone a transformation under new ownership. Rebranded as Nanas, this beloved establishment has been redesigned with a warm, inviting ambiance that pays homage to Durham’s history and natural beauty. And while the menu still embraces the modern takes on French and Italian dishes that made Nanas a local favorite, the team has also introduced new offerings that showcase the bounty of the Piedmont and North Carolina’s coastal regions.
But the newcomers are just as captivating, like the highly anticipated Patty Boys, a smash burger concept that has taken up residence in the Durham Food Hall. With its 100% beef patties, crispy chicken tenders, and nostalgic sides like tater tots and big gulp drinks, this spot is a delightful nod to the comfort foods of Americana.
And let’s not forget about the culinary collaborations that are shaping the future of Durham’s dining scene, like the team behind The Can Opener, a food truck park that’s bringing together a diverse array of local food purveyors and ice cream makers. It’s in these spaces where the city’s entrepreneurial spirit and love for community converge, creating truly unique and memorable dining experiences.
Craft Brews and Cocktails: Raising a Glass to Durham’s Beverage Scene
As I explored the vibrant culinary landscape of Durham, I couldn’t help but notice the equally impressive array of craft brews and inventive cocktails that were elevating the city’s beverage scene.
Take, for instance, Proximity, Durham’s first Black-owned brewery, which is serving up IPAs that feature North Carolina-grown ingredients and collaborations with local brewing powerhouses like Fullsteam. The signature West Coast IPA is a testament to the team’s commitment to quality and their dedication to celebrating the rich diversity of the Bull City.
But the craft beverage scene in Durham extends far beyond just beer. At DSSOLVR, a brewery that has brought its funky and unconventional vibes to the heart of downtown, I discovered a world of lagers, English ales, IPAs, and even funky wood-fermented varieties that challenged my preconceptions about what a “craft” beer could be.
And let’s not forget the cocktail scene, where establishments like Honeygirl Meadery and Missy Lane’s Social Club are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. At Honeygirl’s new tasting room and production facility at the American Tobacco Campus, I found myself sipping on a refreshing mead-based cocktail, marveling at the way the ancient beverage had been elevated with modern flair.
These craft beverage purveyors in Durham are not just quenching thirsty palates; they’re also weaving their own unique narratives into the fabric of the city’s culinary identity. From the bold and innovative to the traditional and time-honored, there’s a little something for every beverage enthusiast in Durham.
Closing Thoughts: Durham, the Epicenter of Culinary Exploration
As I reflect on my culinary adventure in Durham, I can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer diversity and creativity that permeates the city’s dining scene. From the bold fusion of flavors at Curry Up Now to the cultural crossroads of 1953, and from the elevated experiences at State of Golf to the craft beverage haven of Proximity, Durham has proven itself to be an epicenter of culinary exploration.
But what truly sets Durham apart is the way these establishments and their culinary innovators have seamlessly woven their personal histories, cultural traditions, and entrepreneurial spirits into the very fabric of the dining experience. It’s a tapestry of flavors, stories, and experiences that beckons the curious and the adventurous alike to venture forth and discover the unexpected.
So, whether you’re craving the comfort of a classic Southern dish or the thrill of a flavor-forward fusion, Durham has something to satisfy every palate. And as I plan my next visit, I can’t help but wonder what delightful surprises and hidden gems await, ready to transport me on yet another unforgettable culinary journey.
