Durham, New Hampshire, nestled amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Granite State, is much more than just a vibrant college town, home to the esteemed University of New Hampshire. While its academic reputation is undeniable, Durham also boasts a burgeoning food scene, a hidden gem for culinary enthusiasts. From quick bites perfect for a student on the go to elegant dining experiences ideal for celebrating a special occasion, Durham offers a surprisingly diverse range of flavors and atmospheres. This guide will take you on a culinary tour of Durham, showcasing some of the best restaurants, cozy cafes, and local favorites that make this town a must-visit for anyone who appreciates good food. Get ready to embark on a flavorful adventure and discover the delightful world of food in Durham, New Hampshire.
Casual Dining & Quick Bites: Fueling Up in Durham
Let’s face it, sometimes you need a delicious meal and you need it *now*. Whether you are a student rushing between classes, a local grabbing a quick lunch, or a visitor eager to explore, Durham understands the importance of convenient and affordable options. These casual dining spots are the perfect way to satisfy your hunger without breaking the bank.
Young’s Restaurant
Consider stopping by Young’s Restaurant. This beloved Durham institution is famous for its classic American fare. They offer large portions at a reasonable price, perfect for a hungry student or anyone craving a comforting meal. Their menu is packed with classic items: hearty breakfast platters, juicy burgers, crispy fries, and creamy milkshakes. Young’s is a great choice because it’s a classic diner experience, providing consistently good food in a relaxed setting. It’s a place where you can grab a quick bite, catch up with friends, and enjoy a taste of Durham’s history.
Wildcat Pizza
Another fantastic choice for a quick and satisfying meal is Wildcat Pizza. Located conveniently in the heart of Durham, Wildcat Pizza offers a variety of delicious pizzas, from classic cheese and pepperoni to specialty pies with unique toppings. They also offer a range of other options, including calzones, sandwiches, and salads, ensuring there is something for everyone. The atmosphere is casual and lively, making it a popular spot for students and locals alike. Wildcat Pizza is a particularly good choice because it’s affordable, the service is quick, and the pizza is consistently tasty. It’s the ideal place to grab a slice before a show at the Whittemore Center, or to fuel up after a long day of studying.
Taste of Thai
If you are looking for something a little different, why not try Taste of Thai. It provides a wide variety of food from pad thai to tom yum soup. They are a highly rated location known for their quick service and friendly staff. It can be a quick dine in or takeaway option that can fill you up while being tasty.
Breaking New Grounds
For those craving something fresh and healthy, Breaking New Grounds is a local favorite. More than just a coffee shop, Breaking New Grounds offers a variety of salads, sandwiches, and wraps, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. They also boast an impressive selection of coffees, teas, and smoothies, perfect for a quick breakfast, lunch, or afternoon pick-me-up. It’s a great choice because it provides healthy, delicious options in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you are looking for a place to study, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a good book, Breaking New Grounds is the perfect spot.
International Flavors: A Taste of the World in Durham
Durham’s culinary scene extends far beyond the boundaries of traditional American fare. The town embraces a diverse range of international flavors, offering residents and visitors a chance to experience the tastes of the world without ever leaving Durham. From aromatic spices to exotic ingredients, these restaurants bring a global perspective to the Durham food scene.
Indian Paradise
One such gem is Indian Paradise. This restaurant is known for its authentic Indian cuisine, prepared with traditional spices and techniques. The menu features a wide array of dishes, from classic curries and tandoori meats to flavorful vegetarian options. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Indian Paradise is a particularly good choice because it offers a genuine taste of India, with flavorful dishes and attentive service. Be sure to try their butter chicken or lamb vindaloo, both are local favorites.
Dos Amigos
Craving some zest and spice? Look no further than Dos Amigos. This vibrant Mexican restaurant offers a festive atmosphere and a menu packed with classic Mexican dishes, from tacos and enchiladas to burritos and fajitas. The restaurant is known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and friendly service. Dos Amigos is a great choice because it offers a fun and flavorful dining experience, perfect for a casual night out with friends. Their margaritas are highly recommended, especially on a warm summer evening. It’s a popular spot for students celebrating a birthday or just looking for a lively and affordable meal.
Upscale Dining: Elevating the Culinary Experience
For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Durham boasts a selection of upscale restaurants that are perfect for special occasions, romantic dinners, or simply treating yourself to something special. These establishments prioritize quality ingredients, innovative menus, and impeccable service, creating a truly memorable culinary experience.
The Waysmeet Center
Consider making a reservation at The Waysmeet Center. Known for its farm-to-table philosophy and creative menu, The Waysmeet Center offers a unique dining experience that is both delicious and sustainable. The chefs utilize fresh, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible, creating dishes that are bursting with flavor and reflect the changing seasons. The atmosphere is elegant and sophisticated, making it a perfect spot for a special occasion. The Waysmeet Center is a top choice because it is committed to sustainability and offers a truly unique dining experience, showcasing the best of what New Hampshire has to offer. The menu changes regularly, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to try.
Hidalgo
Another excellent choice for upscale dining is Hidalgo. This cozy restaurant focuses on providing tapas and meals that are unique and exciting. Their selection of wines and beers provide endless combination options to perfectly pair the meal you choose. Known for its excellent food and high end service, Hidalgo is a perfect place for any special occasion.
Bars & Pubs with Great Food: More Than Just Drinks
Sometimes, you want a place where you can enjoy a cold drink, catch up with friends, and also enjoy a delicious meal. Durham’s bars and pubs offer the perfect combination of a lively atmosphere and satisfying food, making them popular spots for students, locals, and visitors alike.
Libby’s Bar and Grill
A great choice for a pub with good food is Libby’s Bar and Grill. This is a classic sports bar, with multiple televisions, classic pub fare, and plenty of local beers on tap. The menu features all the pub favorites, from juicy burgers and crispy wings to hearty sandwiches and loaded fries. It is a popular spot for watching sports games, grabbing a bite with friends, or simply enjoying a casual night out. What makes Libby’s a fantastic choice is that it offers a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, great food, and plenty of drinks, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day.
The Stone Church
For those seeking a lively atmosphere and a great selection of craft beers, The Stone Church is a must-visit. While known primarily as a live music venue, The Stone Church also offers a surprisingly delicious menu of pub fare, including pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. The atmosphere is eclectic and vibrant, making it a popular spot for students and music lovers alike. The Stone Church stands out because it combines great music, a lively atmosphere, and surprisingly delicious food, creating a truly unique and memorable experience. It’s a place where you can discover new bands, enjoy a cold beer, and satisfy your hunger all in one place.
Hidden Gems & Local Favorites: Discovering Durham’s Best Kept Secrets
Beyond the well-known restaurants and popular chains, Durham is also home to a number of hidden gems and local favorites that are worth seeking out. These establishments offer unique experiences, delicious food, and a glimpse into the heart of the Durham community.
DHOP
One such gem is DHOP. This is a staple for UNH students and local staff alike. Offering a wide variety of burgers, sandwiches, and salads, DHOP provides excellent food with friendly service. They are always willing to listen and fix any problems you may have. The location is excellent and the price makes it extremely reasonable.
The Durham Marketplace
Another must-try local favorite is The Durham Marketplace. This cozy market and deli offers a wide selection of sandwiches, salads, and homemade baked goods. It’s the perfect spot to grab a quick lunch, pick up some snacks for a picnic, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a good book. Durham Marketplace sets itself apart because of their use of fresh ingredients, home-baked bread, and friendly service. It’s a place where you can feel like a local, enjoy a delicious meal, and support a small business.
Conclusion: Savoring the Flavors of Durham
From quick bites and international flavors to upscale dining and hidden gems, Durham, New Hampshire, offers a surprisingly diverse and vibrant food scene. Whether you are a student looking for an affordable meal, a visitor eager to explore new flavors, or a local seeking a special occasion restaurant, Durham has something to satisfy every craving. The variety of food in Durham, New Hampshire is something to be proud of, so take the time to explore and discover some of the hidden gems available in this wonderful town.
So, whether you’re a student looking for a quick bite, a family celebrating a special occasion, or a foodie eager to discover new flavors, Durham, New Hampshire, has something delicious waiting for you. Start exploring today and discover your favorite culinary spots in this charming New England town. Before heading out, always check the restaurants websites and social media for the most up-to-date menus, hours, and any special events. Happy eating!
