I always get sentimental when our Best of Durham issue rolls around. The first publication I edited for Durham Magazine featured the results of the inaugural awards (back when we used to give out “medals” instead of buttons!).
It’s hard to believe that, 13 years ago, I was in my first editorial internship with my nose to the grindstone, fact-checking the names of every Durham restaurant, art gallery, salon, veterinarian and gift shop that our readers had dubbed “the best.” Truthfully, it was such a fun and comprehensive introduction to my new hometown, and it gave me a lot of knowledge and confidence when making recommendations to my friends about where we’d go out for dinner that night or which museum we’d visit next.
It’s my hope that others who read this issue year after year end up feeling the same and use this list as a guide to discover new ways to love the Bull City. After all, the Best of Durham is a reflection of our community’s collective voice, a resounding chorus of recommendations and testimonials that illuminate the outstanding establishments and individuals that shape our city. Each winner represents a testament to our city’s vibrant tapestry, from the top restaurants and bars to the finest local cultural experiences and services.
You can find the complete list of winners on page 94, but start on page 40 to learn more about a few of them and make plans to visit any businesses you haven’t patronized before. Trust us – and our infallible readers – you won’t be disappointed! – Executive Editor Amanda MacLaren
BEST OF DURHAM
42 Global Palate
These restaurants highlight cuisines from around the world – here’s just a sampling of their most impressive dishes
52 Wake-Up Call
Three long-standing restaurants and coffee shops remain popular places to start the day, 20-plus years later
58 Perfectly Pour Decisions
Make the right selection at these four bottle shops and brew houses
62 You’re Gonna Be Popular
Our readers’ fave local food products are ready for their close-up
70 Thrift Seekers
Prop stylist Cameron Renfrow shares his tips and tricks for finding the perfect pieces to accent your home
76 Join the Club
Members tell us what they love most about these favorite sports clubs
82 Treat Yourself
Enlist a few of our Best of Durham winners to help you indulge in the ultimate self-care day
88 Encore!
Beyu Caffé’s live music series hits all the right notes in its triumphant comeback
94 Best of Durham 2023 Winners
106 Agents of Change
Emily K Center is the inaugural recipient of Durham Magazine’s social impact award
108 Unconventional to Unforgettable
Couple turns not-so-traditional Hope Valley house into a home of artistic splendor and tranquil innovation
AGING & WELLNESS
124 Play On
Older adults stay active and social through Durham Parks and Recreation programming
128 Seen & Heard
Retired couple finds fulfillment in their golden years through their respective projects
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
10 Go.See.Do.
Our top picks for a sizzling summer
28 Noted
What we’ve heard around our city …
38 Talking Shop
Influential members of our community share their visions for the city’s future
SPONSORED CONTENT
36 Adopt a Pet
Meet a dog and a cat waiting on their forever homes at the Animal Protection Society of Durham
DURHAM INC.
140 East Durham: The Next Chapter
A neighborhood fosters Black-owned business and community growth
145 Networking: Durham Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting
146 Hot Shot
We chat with Mill & Meadow owner Elyse Burns
PEOPLE & PLACES
18 Museum of Durham History’s “Making History Together” reception
22 Durham Library Foundation’s All Booked Up After-Hours Party
