The last time we had a big Lindy Hop workshop in Durham was 2019 and a lot has changed in Durham since that time, in large part due to the pandemic. That said, I still love living here and there will be lots to eat within and near the downtown area where the workshops are held, so here is a non-exhaustive list of some of my favorite places to eat for those of you attending Flying Home:

COFFEE

Cocoa Cinnamon – this is the only one I’m listing because it’s the best and it’s the only one I frequent that’s open on Sunday. Like people don’t need coffee on Sunday…

BREAKFAST/LUNCH

Monuts – delicious donuts, both cake and yeast, and IMO the best sandwiches in Durham. The world is a better place with their focaccia in it.

Loaf – bakery with European and American goodies, their flatbreads are the cheapest lunch downtown. There’s no seating, but you can grab something and walk to the end of the block for a seat in a tiny park or on the swings.

Toast – Italian sandwiches, salads, soups, and accoutrements.

Rise Biscuits and Donuts – great biscuit sandwiches, donuts, and the best apple fritters. No seating here, either, but ideal when you are pressed for time – order online, grab, and go.

LUNCH/DINNER

Dame’s Chicken and Waffles – it never disappoints. I recommend making a reservation.

Dashi – ramen downstairs, izakaya upstairs.

Luna – South America meets American South, my top place to bring gluten intolerant friends.

Blue Note Grill – good BBQ, best ribs in Durham.

FANCY DINNER

Mateo – tapas meets American south, with a stellar cocktail program to boot. Definitely need a reservation.

LATE NIGHT FOOD

Queeny’s – a little something for everyone, spacious and dive-y, this is where the local dancers go after our dances downtown. Open until 2 a.m.

Cosmic Cantina – a short drive away, excellent burritos, open until 4:00 a.m.

COCKTAILS

Alley Twenty-Six – James Beard nominated bar program, my favorite chef is here (my vote for best burger in Durham), and for the summer they have an entire tropical/tiki cocktail menu that is extensive and delightful. If you are eating dinner, I recommend making a reservation.

Kingfisher – across from Alley Twenty-Six, below Queeny’s, they are doing clever and botanical cocktails, along with some nibbles.

Rooftop Bar at The Durham Hotel – solid cocktail menu plus eats, but come here for the beautiful view.

ICE CREAM

The Parlour – our incredible local shop with a mix of regular and seasonal flavors, plus gluten free and vegan options. If there’s a line, it moves quickly.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams – yes, it’s a chain, but as someone who would seek out Jeni’s locations at other dance events, I need you to know that we have one here and it’s lovely.

GROCERY

Bulldega – food, toiletries, whatever you forgot. Also a good place to grab lunch, they usually have prepared foods like sandwiches and salads.

This is just a jumping off point – there are so many other delicious places in downtown Durham that I haven’t mentioned, you really can’t go wrong. So pull up Yelp, see what looks good, and go for it.