Durham’s dining scene has been earning accolades for more than a decade. James Beard winners and nominees, national recognition from respected publications, a thriving community of chefs who’ve put North Carolina on the culinary radar of savvy travelers. The same story plays out across the South, from pit masters who’ve perfected their craft over generations to innovative chefs redefining what Southern cuisine can be. When the MICHELIN Guide announced in spring of 2025 that the American South would be the focus for its first-ever regional guide in North America, they validated what we’ve been celebrating all along.
This isn’t just about stars and accolades; it’s about recognizing the soul of Southern food and hospitality. The diversity of flavors shaped by centuries of cultural exchange. The farmers and fishermen who tirelessly cultivate, grow, harvest and catch the ingredients that make the cuisine of the South iconic. The chefs pushing boundaries while honoring tradition. The unforgettable hospitality that makes every meal feel like an invitation into a chef’s home.
On November 3, 2025, the MICHELIN Guide revealed which restaurants across Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee earned recognition. For Durham, this moment celebrates a place where ingredients are thoughtfully chosen, food is cooked with heart, cultures are shared and boldness is celebrated…