48 College Towns That Serve Up the Most Delicious Food Scenes in America

28. Durham, North Carolina — A Southern Food Powerhouse with Global Flair

Durham, North Carolina, is a rising star in the culinary world, blending rich Southern traditions with bold global flavors and an ever-growing food innovation scene. Home to Duke University, this college town has transformed into a foodie destination where farm-to-table excellence meets deep-rooted barbecue culture, and where James Beard-nominated chefs rub shoulders with hole-in-the-wall gems serving up some of the best bites in the South.For a town steeped in Southern tradition, Durham has an impressive international food scene. Goorsha serves up bold, spice-packed Ethiopian cuisine, perfect for sharing with friends, while Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas blends Latin American flavors with Southern influences in dishes like Peruvian-style roasted chicken with collard greens. If you’re in the mood for authentic Thai, Thai at Main Street is a hidden gem, with fragrant curries and spicy noodle dishes that transport you straight to Bangkok.