My friend and I decided on dinner at Nerra, and by the end of the evening, I was already thinking…read moreabout who I wanted to bring back. Our experience started on a gracious note before we even arrived. My friend had made the reservation, but a change in our schedule meant we needed to adjust the time. The team was incredibly accommodating and kind, making the switch without any fuss. When we arrived, we were greeted at the door and seated almost immediately. The restaurant unfolds into several distinct dining areas, each with its own feel. We were seated in a corner near the window, tucked toward the back of the restaurant, which ended up being the perfect spot for catching up over dinner. Our server was warm, attentive, and genuinely sweet throughout the evening. We had already studied the menu, so there wasn't much deliberation once we sat down. We started with cocktails. I ordered the Deep Current and asked to swap the blanco tequila for mezcal. As someone who loves mezcal, I was looking forward to that unmistakable smoky depth, but it never really arrived. I'm not entirely sure whether the substitution was made or whether the mezcal simply disappeared among the other ingredients, but it wasn't apparent in the drink. The cocktail program may be one area with a little room to grow, particularly if you're someone who enjoys spirits with a more pronounced presence. The food, however, was a different story. We ordered the ceviche, whole fish, and jasmine rice to share, and everything that arrived at the table was flavorful and delicious. The whole fish was especially satisfying alongside the rice, and the meal had the kind of balance that makes sharing several dishes feel like the right decision. As the evening went on, Nerra began to fill. Tables became animated, conversations grew louder, and laughter seemed to move through the room. There was an easy happiness to the space that made you want to linger a little longer. Even as the restaurant became busier, it remained clean, polished, and well maintained. A practical note before you go: there are paid lots surrounding the restaurant, which may be your easiest option. Street parking can be a bit more challenging, although both my friend and I managed to find spots nearby. Nerra gave us a genuinely lovely evening: gracious service, a beautiful atmosphere, and food worth returning for. The cocktail may not have delivered the smoky mezcal moment I was hoping for, but dinner certainly did. And perhaps that's the best measure of a restaurant: before you've even left, you're already planning your return. Next time, I'm bringing my husband.

My husband and I went to Nerra for our anniversary. It was totally unplanned so we grabbed a last…read moreminute reservation and went at 1:30. So we were near the end of brunch/lunch and before dinner. The restaurant itself is really quaint and I just loved the decor. Staff was warm and friendly. Our waitress was Patience and she was AMAZING! We started with the vegetable tempura and we also tried the calamari. Now I will admit I wanted to stab my husband in the back of his hand with my fork for wanting me to share that tempura. It came with blackened ranch which I have never head of, but it was outstanding. I tend to be super sensitive to salt, and I found the Calamari slight salty. It is one of the primary reasons I don't opt for fried foods. Somewhere there was a memo that say if it's fried, go ahead and OVER SALT it. I will never understand. I had the Sesame Cruisted Tuna with brussel sprouts and my husband had the Golden Crusted Platter. I did not have one complaint about my entree. It was cooked to perfection, and I just enjoyed it to the last bite. I did taste my husband's dish and it was fried and it was salty. More so than the Calamari HOWEVER, he loved it and he did say it was just slightly salty for him, so ya know, it's probably me lol. His broccoli though...it had a grilled flavor to it but no grill marks. How they did it I don't know, but I had to steal a couple off his plate because he owed me for eating my tempura. ha! I rarely drink but I had a glass of wine and my tequila guy has a blood orange margarita! He loved it and that was a recommendation from Patience. Thanks Sis! All said, I only took a point off of this review for the salt. I just think chef's should know better and be careful that it's not too much. A little salt goes a long way and when in doubt, just leave some space for us to salt our food at the table, You can add, but if it's overdone, it ruins the dish. Otherwise, I will go back and try it other menu items! Tempura and then something different lol. The good news is I want to go back and sure, you go ahead and try it too. I think this one is a winner.

I enjoyed Sho Nuff Grande Shrimp. This included a large serving of 24 large shrimp, smoked sausage,…read morecorn and potatoes. This was so delicious. I really enjoyed this. The individuals I dined here with had flounder and catfish and they also enjoyed their food. I also tried the collards and that was also very good. The staff here were upbeat, professional and attentive The restaurant itself isn't fancy. Many areas can use more cleaning such as the paper towels holders on the tables and the bathroom trash can. One operating restroom isn't sufficient for the crowd that comes in and out of this restaurant. Overall, very good seafood and I do recommend. It's Sho Nuff GOOD!

Our first time for eating at Sho Nuff Seafood, and we will definitely be back there soon. It was…read morevery good ... fresh, hot and good ... everything.

Tried this spot out that came highly recommend and it did not disappoint! The Food was amazing…read more(Oysters, Fried Fish & Red Rice, and dessert of course beignets). The parking wasn't the best on this particular day, as there was a Durhams Bull Game that evening. The decor and vibe were all present inviting as soon as you walk in!

Summertime ..and the food, service and ambiance can be enjoyed at Seraphine. We went for oysters,…read moresmall plates and wine before seeing a show at DPAC. They have indoor seating but it was a beautiful night to dine on their patio. Cocktails, Mocktails and more are available but we opted for a glass of Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé wine to pair with some Blue Crab Claws (which were on their menu additions) , Ceasar Salad (I highly recommend getting it topped with fried oysters), speaking of oysters they offer them raw but the broiled oysters should not be missed! We tried the broiled oysters with chili lime butter which were so good with their crusty bread. If you love seafood try the Tuna and Lobster Crudo and for my vegans the Fried Lions Mane small plate was tasty! We enjoyed everything and see why they got nominated from Michelin Guide and recently featured in Durham's Mag Best Of ! You must go and experience a taste of Louisiana in the Bull City for yourself .

We visited in a Monday a little after 5pm, after whole day at Duke…read more On arrival, easy parking and then we were greeted by a big smile from the young lady behind the bar (Megan) and we sat outside. We started with a dozen oysters, and calamari- followed by tacos. The food was fresh, their coleslaw is made in house and was delicious. The oysters were fresh and tasty. I had the grilled mahi tacos and my husband had the shrimp- it was all amazing. The ambiance was relax and welcoming. Fast service too. Priced reasonably.

Shuckin' Shack Oyster Bar in Durham sits in a shopping center where the parking is posted as…read moreone-hour, but if you're a customer, you can stay longer without issue. That's the first thing you notice--plenty of parking. I had no trouble finding a spot on two separate visits this week. Inside, it's a cozy setup with a bar, table seating, and an outdoor patio area. It has that laid-back oyster shack feel. The patio looks like it could be dog-friendly, though I didn't confirm. The place is clean, and the staff are genuinely friendly across the board--welcoming without being overbearing. Food-wise, it delivers. On my first visit, I had steamed clams and steamed Gulf shrimp. Both were phenomenal. The clams were sweet and perfectly cooked, and the shrimp was just as impressive--simple, fresh, and done right. Second visit, I went a different route and ordered a hamburger--yes, at a seafood spot. Running keto, I skipped the bun, and it turned out to be a great call. Cooked exactly to order and full of flavor, it held its own against the seafood. Whether you're coming in for oysters on the half shell, fresh seafood, or even a solid burger, this place covers it. Make sure to check the chalkboard specials--that's really where the menu shines, with daily deals that are worth the visit.

I have only been here a couple of times but each time was a good experience. The staff is always…read morefriendly and the food was great. This time I got a shrimp boil....so much great flavor! The seafood is always fresh. The restaurant is clean..that's always a plus. Oh before I forget, my husband enjoyed his oyster po boy...immensely!

Amazing food you gets your money's worth. They don't hold back portions in my opinion.read more

I had the fried sheep's head. It was cooked just the way I remember my Grandmother cooking it. I…read moregrew up on Lake Erie, so fishing was a common activity in my family. What a great food memory. The fish here is top shelf in its preparation and flavor. The staff is very friendly. The portions are nice. Dining inside is a nice experience. It is not a huge dining area, but it is a perfect space where members of the community can gather over great fish and conversation. There are a few tables outside as well to enjoy the weather. Prices are what you would expect from freshly prepared fish meals. Not expensive but definitely not fast food prices. The fish changes daily so you should come often to experience the range of goodness! As you can tell, I highly recommend this restaurant.

My son suggested this joint, and I am glad that he did! What a great place. The service was great,…read morethe food was amazing, and I loved the atmosphere. It is completely casual, and I loved seeing the owner in the kitchen when he greeted me and thanked me for coming in. My spicy mani was great, and my son really enjoyed his drum. The sides were great too. I will be back!

This is a decent four-star Southern bar near the Duke campus. We were driving through town, and we…read morestopped here before visiting the local botanical garden. There's plenty of paid street parking in the area. The interior is a bit dark inside, minimal ambient light from the outside, TVs around the bar. Lunch arrived quickly, I had the patty melt which was a bit over salted, but not too bad. Service from Makena was overall decent, nothing exceptionally bad or good. Pricing for lunch averaged just over $20 per person, including the "included gratuity." It's a fine Place to get standard bar food.

We were driving from Columbia, South Carolina to Richmond, Virginia today and decided to stop in…read moreDurham for some lunch around noon. This place is located in the downtown area of Durham on the second floor of a red brick building. There is plenty of patio, bar and dining room seating. It was a little hot for the patio so we sat at one of the tables in the dining room. The menu offers a handful of appetizers and salads, as well as about twenty lunch entrees. I went with the NC pulled pork sandwich. It also had coleslaw on the sandwich. Side options included fries, salad, Brussel sprouts, or onion rings. I went with the brussel sprouts and they were very tasty. My husband had the patty melt with French fries. The fries were a generous and tasty portion. His patty melt was very salty, though. Service was pretty quick.

We had an extremely memorable experience at Alley Twenty Six, in large part to our amazing server,…read moreAnthony! We made a reservation for a Saturday night dinner and he made sure we were well taken care of all night. We started the night with their James Bears award winning cocktails, and every drink we ordered was a hit! Spiced strawberry mule, Sunset Sipper, and the table favorite: Earl Please. The latter two drinks were mocktails and they were still standouts! As for the food, the Alley burger was perfectly cooked: juicy patty paired with truffle cheese and simple toppings that really highlighted the burger itself. And shoestring fries are always a good choice with a delicious burger. Ricotta gnocchi was also very good. As our server Anthony said, let's get this burger nominated!

We hav been here twice and gotten a burger each time. Foie burger is the way to go. Hands down one…read moreof the best burgers I've had. The "wings" were absolutely killer with the perfect sweet and spicy flavor and that dipping sauce with them is out of this world. I would get the burrata again too, the only miss was the gnocchi and I say that but I ate every bite... so it's old a miss compared to everything else. Service was top notch and the drinks are delicious. I want to go get a drink at the funky little ally window one night. Go here! Get the burger! You will not regret it