Durham’s food scene is a cultural crossroads, merging Southern roots with innovation, global tradition, youthful energy (thanks to universities), and a spirit of progress—plus a lot of North Carolina pride.
1. Mateo Bar de Tapas
A national leader in Spanish-Southern fusion, Mateo fuses Spain’s tapas tradition with the flavors of the American South.
Think country ham croquetas, pimento cheese toast, octopus a la plancha, and inventive cocktails heavy on sherry.
The brick-walled space is lively, filled with celebratory gatherings and deep conversation…