The Best Restaurants In Durham, Raleigh And Chapel Hill

North Carolina’s three main university towns Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill boast some of the state’s most exciting museums, cultural events and award-winning restaurants. From innovative chefs to Southern comfort cooking, we’ve updated our previous guide to bring you 10 more outstanding eateries in Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill.
Bida Manda interior | Courtesy Bida Manda

Bida Manda
Restaurant, Asian, Thai, Vietnamese
Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant
Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan

An Cuisines
Restaurant, Asian
The Fearrington House Restaurant
Inn, Hotel

Nestled between Chapel Hill and Durham in the picturesque Fearrington Village, The Fearrington House Restaurant is part of the five star Fearrington House hotel. The Restaurant is the only AAA Five Diamond restaurant in the USA with Green Certification and is frequently named among the top 10 venues in the country. Acclaimed Chef Colin Bedford’s contemporary American menu is changes continually, keeping his staff on their toes, creatively. Fish and meat specialties such as rosemary cured lamb and roasted heritage farm pork are delectable. The setting is likewise stunning: a white-columned house with rustic charm in a beautifully green surroundings.
Herons
Restaurant, American, Vegetarian, Vegan
Lantern
Lantern is an exciting fusion restaurant that blends Asian-influenced recipes with Southern ingredients, creating something new and innovative. Led by brother-sister chef duo Andrea and Brendan Reusing, Lantern opened in 2002 and defines its success not only by the exceptional tastes but also by a close-knit team-work. The venue gradually became a destination restaurant, making it tough for locals to walk in and find a seat in their favourite spot. The venue’s special treat is the famous Lantern Table, which accommodates up to 45 guests for seated dinner.
Lantern, 423 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC, USA, +1 919 969 8846

Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripCentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea.CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different.SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon.Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers.Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers.Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise.Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great priceAfrica
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt.The Little Dipper Fondue on Main
The Little Dipper Fondue on Main
Unsurprisingly, The Little Dipper Fondue on Main is all about fondue. While fondue is rightly considered a classic Swiss speciality, at The Little Dipper everything comes with dipping sauces, which are praised county-wide. Choose from over 20 types of homemade, unique sauces and enjoy how they just melts over the samples of premium meat, fresh seafood or vegetables. Though the venue offers a three-course meal comprising cheese selections, appetizers and plates to share, opting for other assortments is available from the a la carte menu, lining up excellent flavours delivered right from local farms. Once finished with the main courses, you can go right on dipping with the mouth-watering chocolate fondue, an excellent closing ceremony at this exclusive melting pot.
The Little Dipper Fondue on Main, Brightleaf Square, 905 West Main Street, Suite 21A, Durham, NC, USA, +1 910 251 0433

Mateo Bar de Tapas
Restaurant, Contemporary

ONE
Restaurant, American
Tonali
Restaurant, Mexican
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
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