True Flavors Diner Photos
Business Info
TRUE FLAVORS DINER ATMOSPHERE
You might also consider
Recommended Reviews - True Flavors Diner
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Cute little place- I think they are rebranding away from Lou's because it seems to be one and the same. We went on a Saturday and it was not too busy but a good number of people. Lots of available parking, easy to access. The food was pretty pricey for what it was but my partner loved his fried chicken- really good. I got the waffles and eggs with bacon. Bacon and waffles were really good but the eggs tasted fishy for some reason so I didn't eat them. Biscuits were tasty too Overall, most of the food was pretty good, but for the price it just was pretty expensive so we probably wouldn't be back
This was probably the best breakfast I've ever had. Everything was quality and I wish Iived in the state so I could be a regular. The waffle I had was perfection and the peach French toast my brother got was also perfection. The restaurant makes their own flavored butters and I cannot speak highly enough of our experience. Bacon was perfection, everything was great quality and if we visit again we will definitely be back.
We stopped by True Flavors for Sunday brunch and had a bit of a wait, but honestly, totally worth it. The ambiance was warm and inviting, and the quality of both the service and the food matched that vibe perfectly. We arrived a little later into the brunch rush, so they were out of some ingredients, but that just tells me their stuff is fresh and the place is clearly loved by locals (and now by me too). I ordered the peach cinnamon buttermilk pancakes, so good! It came with a thick, juicy slice of ham that hit the spot with some eggs on the side. If I had one tiny wish, it'd be for a little more egg action on the plate. Overall, great spot with a great atmosphere. I'll definitely be back!
This restaurant is located in a shopping plaza with shared parking outside. The dining area is kind of small. This is my second time at true flavors. The employees that I engaged with were not personable at all. The original meal that I wanted wasn't available so this time I got the brown sugar peach French toast, with eggs and sausage. It was ok. I would not get it again.
Very good food in an inviting and casual atmosphere!! We had the Ultimate biscuits and gravy and the fried chicken and waffles! Both were delicious but we did miss out on the "complimentary" biscuits which we should have beef served while waiting for our order! We will be back! Highly recommended!
I invited a friend to visit True Flavors for brunch this morning with the goal of supporting a minority owned business on Juneteenth. Upon arrival my friend had not made it into the restaurant as yet. The woman who greets patrons at the door asked that I step outside until my friend arrived as they do not seat you until all members of the party are present. This is a very small storefront diner. So I understood how crowded it can get. However, her delivery may not have carried so well with someone else. There was a gentleman in the kitchen, perhaps a head cook, who greeted us pleasantly when my friend arrived. I wish this demeanor had been carried out throughout the dining experience. We were seated and given 1 menu to share. Table settings had been left out and uncovered at the table. I asked our server for dining recommendations. I decided on the hazelnut iced coffee and the Fish & Grits which is served with 2 eggs of your choice. I ordered mine over easy. Mini Biscuits were delivered to the table. I did not enjoy these. Lackluster. My meal arrived and the presentation was spot on. I enjoyed this dish. The green onions and grits were very flavorful. I would compare the cheese grits to Mac & Cheese. it being served in a small skillet was a nice touch. The fish was fried very similar to chicken and was not overly seasoned or salted. I enjoyed my meal, however, the lack of courteous customer service was a big miss for me here and I don't have a reason to return. Often, when I attempt to support local businesses with staff of my own race, they low ball on the service and up charge on the dime. I have to dine where my dollar is appreciated & presence is valued.
Please, please, please check this place out. The biscuits are HUGE, the flavor combinations are crazy inventive, and everything is so so tasty. This place is in an old strip mall. It gets busier as the morning goes on. There is plenty of parking but the close parking goes very quickly. The interior is very small so you may have to wait a bit but it's never been too long for us. Beware...this isn't a great place if your group is bigger than 4. Most of the waitstaff is friendly and helpful. I just really, really loved the chicken chipotle blueberry biscuit. Amazing. I'm making myself hungry just thinking about it!
my boyfriend enjoyed his pork chop but I shouldve listened to my server when he told me not to get the chicken biscuit anf gravy. Absolutely nauseating. We also had a side of mac n cheese, not great. this place used to be packed but thr quality of the food was better. idk what happened but I probably won't go back,
Every thing is amazing. If they serve it you will want to eat it. I've been here multiple times over many years and never EVER been disappointed on any level. The service, the vibe, AND the food are always exceptional. If you ever visit Durham and have the time...GO.
I arrived at 9:32am on a Sunday morning in a party of two. We were seated promptly. The table looks like it was meant to be sideways to fit 4 people which created an unusual distance between us. Our waiter came over at 9:35pm. He didn't introduce himself and stated that he will get us waters and asked if we wanted something else. We received the waters quickly. He returned a couple minutes later to inquire if we had questions about the menu, which we did. I also asked about Debbie Lou's Sandwich shop. He said it used to be separate until COVID. Then, they combined and were doing two separate menus. Now, they combined the menus and switch it up every couple months. At 9:50am, we ordered. I got the strawberry butter French toast with scrambled eggs and bacon. The other party got the cinnamon sugar waffles with bacon and side of cheese grits. At 10:02am, we received the food. Food Quality: 3/5 -At 9:52am, waiter brought over complimentary biscuits. The butter on top was visible and it was paired with a strawberry jam. The biscuits were soft, fluffy, and down right delicious! -Cheesy Grits: You must stir it because the cheese is at the bottom melting. My date stated "it's good grits" -Bacon: The first piece of bacon I tasted was not warm at all and was chewy. Of my 3-4 pieces of bacon, only a small piece was warm and crispy like I expected. This was disappointing. My date's bacon was the perfect temperature and crispiness. The disparity questions consistency. -Eggs: Perfect temperature but lacked seasoning or flavor. I added salt and pepper and it was fine. -French Toast: Very thick. The cream cheese was too much, in my opinion. This was evident when I cut into it and it basically drowned my French toast with the syrup. I was expecting fresh strawberries but it wasn't. It tasted like strawberry crumbs as it was somewhat hard and crunchy. The edges of the French toast were a little over cooked and burnt in some places. The interior of the fresh toast was soft and delicious. -Waffles: My date said the "Cinnamon sugar was perfect." I tasted it and they indeed were flavorful and delicious! Presentation: 5/5 -Well-presented, neat, and appetizing -Whipped cream butter on my French toast was in an excessive amount -There was a green garnish on the eggs, which was in excessive and overpowered the eggs. If there were only a couple Service: 4/5 -Per receipt, our waiter was "Isaiah M." He was friendly and attentive. Outside of not introducing himself (which is a personal pet peeve), the service was great. He attempted to help me decide which entree to get as I was deciding between the strawberry butter French toast and cinnamon roll pancakes. He noted they both were great options and are a consistent menu item even as they rotate out the menu. Ambiance & Cleanliness: 5/5 -The music was great! It was mostly R&B, which is our favorite genre! -On the table, they have sugar, salt, pepper, creamer, and a container of straws. -The place was clean and tidy. Staff went around to clear plates and tables. Value for Money: 4/5 -For the two entrees and side of grits, the total was $41, which isn't bad. -The side of eggs was tiny. It honestly shocked us. My date is allergic to eggs, so I ate his (which they did put on a separate plate) Overall Experience: 4/5 -My date said it was the "Best breakfast place I had in a while." For him, his food and everything was perfect. He disliked they he was unable to substitute the eggs, which he is allergic to. This caused him to give me his eggs and pay for a different side. Total: 25/30 5 star: 29-30 4 star: 24-28 3 star: 19-23 2 star: 14-18 1 star: 6-13
This was our second visit to True Flavors for weekend brunch. Be prepared to wait at least 30minutes to an hour. You can put your name on the list and get texted when your table is ready. You will receive a 5 minute grace period to arrive when your table is ready. We went to Starbucks down the road to wait since it was a colder morning. When we were seated, we could tell it was a very busy and hectic morning for the wait staff. It's important to be patient. I ordered the biscuits and gravy. The gravy is very savory compared to sweet. It is a generous amount of gravy poured on top of a GIANT biscuit. My friend got the strawberry French toast which was a 4inch thick cut slice of bread, perfectly toasted on the outside. Unfortunately, the point of sale system was down by the time our meal was over and we had to sit and wait for 30minutes before it was running again. That was not in the restaurants control but added to our waiting time as well and none of us had cash on hand.
We were so pleasantly surprised and will definitely be back again! We got a little lost trying to find them in the parking lot because it seems they have rebranded from Debbie Lou's to True Flavors Diner a little less than a year ago. What a hidden gem! The inside was tiny but gorgeous and so beautifully decorated. They have an open kitchen so you can see the love going right in. The staff was so friendly. The food is absolutely fantastic and the presentation is stunning. We agreed it was some of the best if not THE BEST biscuits we had ever had. They were perfectly buttery and salty with a nice fluff. The chicken was soooo juicy and crunchy. The blueberry compote and sugary vanilla icing paired with the chipotle was outstanding. It's a large portion and we had leftovers. A must try for sure!
I've been here a couple of times, not too often but each time I come I have a great experience. The service is always good and the food comes out very fast but it always very hot and fresh. For my most recent visit I came on a Sunday morning and there was no wait so I was pleasantly surprised about that. The inside is small but very cute with the old school dinner type feel to it. We were lucky enough to get in on a Sunday with no wait. Because it's so small there is usually a little bit of a wait. The service has always been very friendly there. I never have any complaints and this time was no different. Our drinks were always filled and the service is quick. We ordered our food and not to long after our biscuits came out. I always worry when the food comes out too fast that it's not going to be fresh but they were very hot and very delicious. The amount of food they give you is great. It can be a little expensive but it's not a small portion at all. If you ever want to indulge in some great food then I will definitely recommend this place. They have some unique options in terms of biscuits and I don't think one could go from coming here!
8 months ago
Wow this place is amazing. The flavors are dynamic and delicious. You'll get something that reminds you of traditional southern food but with a dash of something really special. I had the strawberry honey waffles and the shrimp hoisin biscuit. Both were out of this world. The service is terrific - friendly, fast and welcoming. If you're headed there on a Saturday it starts to get busy around 10, so be prepared for a bit of a wait. Bring your phone - the menus are all digital. :) I'll be back soon!!! read more
3 years ago
Would absolutely not recommend going here. I went to pick up lunch prior to a flight today and when I walked in, was looked at like I had 3 heads. Someone came up and asked if I needed help, so I said yes I'd like to dine in. They said their last seating is at 130. Looked at my watch, it was literally 131. I did not see last seating information anywhere prior to going there. They then said they actually stop at 1:15. That's not on their site or IG. If you advertise closing at 2pm, close at 2 or clearly indicate other necessary information. They didn't even say if you could take food to-go vs sitting. If you don't want to work, don't worry, I don't want to support you! I'll never return when I'm back in the area on business, and will alert all the colleagues at my company that wanted my review because they'd never heard of you, that your restaurant is not worth trying. Smh read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
While meeting my friend for brunch on the way through Durham, she suggested this diner. I had low expectations upon pulling up and finding a place to park, but by the time we left, I was decisioning when we could possibly return for another visit. We waited about 45 minutes before we were seated which seemed typical for other review experiences so come prepared. There was a cute farmers market in the parking lot so we checked that out while waiting. All the menus are virtual, so scope out your order in advance of being seated. Our waiter was hilarious and friendly, providing great recommendations for the first timers. I didn't catch his name, but he was one of the best servers I have had in a while. There are at least two pages to the menu, make sure you get to see both sides! The food was so unique and unexpected. We had the chicken and waffles, which came with a chipotle blueberry sauce that really added dimension to the dish. I would recommend trying something outside your comfort zone, the flavors may surprise you! The overall location is cute and well decorated, with a combination of modern, vintage, and industrial design elements. I plan to go back many, many times in the future (but ready for the wait this time!). read more
4 years ago
For sure I'm eating here every time I visit the Durham/Chapel Hill area. The food was fresh, hot, plentiful, delicious and quickly delivered to our table - and with impeccable service too! Highly recommend. I loved everything but the complimentary biscuits to start and Cajun grits side left an exceptionally pleasant and lasting impression. read more
3 years ago
9 months ago
3 years ago
True Flavors is tucked away in a shopping area of Morrisville/Durham not too far from RDU airport which if you find yourself with time on your hands and hungry makes this a perfect spot. True, has a cozy diner feel without having kitschy decor that one can find distracting. The menu isn't too extensive and I mean this in the best way- because I'm one of those patrons that take AGES to decide and thankfully my waiter was kind enough to help me pick a wonderful side to go along with my breakfast and with my friends as well. Recommendation is that you come very hungry because the food is delicious, rich and comfortable so one might miss out if you have even an inkling of having a snack first ;) read more
1 year ago
Grits were creamy and fish was crunchy. Service was pretty well and ambiance gives inviting vibes. read more
5 years ago
After having an unpleasant dining experience the night before we were very skeptical as to what the Raleigh food had to offer! Well, being a foodie I will say that True Flavors Diner didn't disappoint. The southern hospitality we received walking in the door was amazing! We were greeted by the employees as we walked into a very clean quaint diner after a short wait. After taking our orders we received complimentary buttery biscuits that were very moist and delectable. I ordered the chicken biscuit with gravy, side of bacon and cheesy skillet potatoes for brunch and a vanilla bean cold brew. When I say, "I wasn't disappointed" I mean I wasn't disappointed! The food was AMAZING! He portion sizes are huge, so I couldn't eat it all, but the level of attention to detail that the chefs are giving to their food surpassed my expectations. Everyone at my table enjoyed their food. There were orders of chicken & waffles, spicy creole shrimp & chicken, pancakes, crab omelet, and an assortment of sides. (Maple and sweet biscuits) We all left stuffed! I would definitely recommend this reasonably priced brunch spot to anyone traveling to the Raleigh area! read more
3 years ago
I couldn't wait to sample the authentic flavors at True Flavors. For a weekday is was surprisingly busy. Our waiter was excellent, understanding that altering the dish might affect its amazing flavor combination. I opted for the country fried chicken, and while the gravy and chicken skin were delightful, the overall dish left me somewhat underwhelmed. On the other hand, my sister-in-law's choice of the blueberry biscuit was absolutely delicious. Despite this, I still had a pleasant experience, and the restaurant proved to be a great spot to dine. read more
3 years ago
Hidden gem nestled in the corner of stripmall location. True Diner Atmosphere with good energy from the staff even with the hustle and bustle of the location being packed. Ordered their Black Berry Rum French Toast. The thick cut brioche bread was surprising not mushy from absorbing too much batter or being undercooked, which is a common flaw at some restaurants. Definitely will return to sample their other French Toast Flavors. Their buttery busicuits are light and fluffy goodness. Go early, because this location stays busy during brunch and does not take reservations or add to waitlist until at the restaurant. read more
11 months ago
This place is a hidden gem in Durham- close to Chapel Hill and RTP - a must try. We had a small 30 min wait for a table Saturday mid morning- but the nearby parking lot farmers market helped to pass that time. Really small venue but turned over quickly - lightening fast. Biscuits were buttery and with a slight crisp exterior. The Apple jam went fantastically well with it. I ordered the spicy creole chicken & shrimp - this dish wiped out all other RTP breakfast options I come back to eat at out of the water. They weren't kidding about the spicy punch - you get it with the heat upfront and then soothed with the flavors of the Parmesan - mashed potatoes - large shrimp - smoked sausage or chicken or if you stack all together even better flavor combo. The portion was large enough to have as a second meal. Husband ordered the chicken & gravy with a scrambled egg. I didn't love the gravy - it was missing a flavor profile it felt too much flour/pasty but it was still delicious- it could be that I tried a bite after my more flavorful choice. Coffee is strong and plentiful and service was delightful. Definitely returning when back in the area. read more
Feeling adventurous or just feeling a usual breakfast staple? True Flavors is for you! One of my absolute favorite weekend breakfast spots in the Raleigh area, they offer a quality menu that features both standard dishes and rotating seasonal items that don't disappoint. It is a smaller dining location modeled in a modern take of a classic diner and provides a bustling and communal type ambiance. The service has been a bit slow at times but nothing out of the ordinary for weekend breakfast rush, but, typically arriving before 930 will get you a quick table. Enjoy! read more
5 years ago
I just want everyone to know I've been to hundreds of places (just look at my Yelp) and this might be in the top 2 places I've EVER ate at in NC. Just wow. I have been DYING to go here and finally caught them (they're only open Thursday to Sunday and until 2 pm.) I would come back here a million times with everyone I know!! The spot is decorated classic diner style on the inside and is extremely cute. The staff was super friendly too and good service is always memorable and goes a long way. The food.. THE FOOD!!!! If you just look at the plates on the tables around you you'll probably be drooling and I noticed a lot of people were looking around as well because the presentation and plates looked soooo good. There are so many amazing dishes to choose from you just can't choose one. So I got 3. I got the crab mac, chicken and waffles with scrambled eggs with cheese, and a side of shrimp and grits. I've never seen a side of shrimp & grits before and I order shrimp & grits everywhere so I was beyond excited to be able to still have it as a side that comes in a cute mini skillet and get to try something else. They give you buttered biscuits with pineapple jam (the jam for today) for free while you wait for the food. Buttery, flakey, amazing. The food was amazing. I won't even recommend one because you should get all of them. The grits and Mac were both so creamy and perfect. The chicken and waffles having powdered sugar on it and eggs on the side was everything! My friend loved her biscuit as well and couldn't even finish half of it because the portions are beyond generous. If these pictures don't convince you to go here I don't know what will. read more
2 years ago
My gawd! Bring your appetite and pace yourself. We've done takeout several times but today was our first time dining in. Fantastic all the way around. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu. read more
We would give this 5 stars, but it was kind of expensive for a Saturday morning brunch with only two people, so we'll stick with 4. I ordered a vanilla iced coffee, and for an iced coffee, it was wonderful. If you're wanting true cold brew, maybe have them go light on the cream. They brought us complimentary mini biscuits while we waited. I ordered the sweet potato honey chicken biscuit with cheese (it was one of the only sweeter biscuit options) and it was sooooooo good! My husband got the chopped chicken gravy biscuit with bacon and he really liked it, but wished it came as a whole fried chicken piece rather than chopped. We thought they'd have all the blueberry chipotle options and bbq options that Debbie Lou's menu had, but it was different than we expected. Service was super fast, ambiance was joyful, food was delicious, bill was ehhhh. read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
*Due to pandemic precautions, this review is for takeout/food quality only* I love and unexpected combination and love it even more when it turns out delicious. True Flavors really lives up to their name with truly flavorful dishes. I had the Duck Hash and Lemon pancakes. Whoever decided you should roast potatoes, load them with tender, shredded duck, cheese, and top with crunchy cracklings...is my kind of genius. Duck perfectly cooked. Potatoes in that sweet spot between crunchy and soft. Flavors creatively blended. Well done True Flavors...well done. read more
2 years ago
Fantastic veggie skillet! Very clean and efficient. The wait staff was wonderful. Loved it! read more
Visiting the area and ran across this spot. Diners are definite gems so we were excited to try. The restaurant isn't very big and is located in a strip near a lot of businesses. We stepped inside and there were a few open tables but we were told there would be a 35-40 minute wait but the bar was open. I usually don't do bar sitting but we really wanted to try this spot. The bar faces the cooks in kitchen just fyi. Our server at first I felt was a bit snippy when she asked what we wanted and I said to her we were provided a menu so she said to me well you didn't scan the QR code before you came in? No, we didn't know we needed to. It's not what you say, it's always the delivery. The rest of the service was good. Restaurant was nice & clean. Big portion sizes on the food, food fresh & good. read more
4 years ago
Came here after checking out the online menu. First thought was that it was a cool little spot, nicely decorated. The menu is online using a QR code and believe me, it is nothing like the one you see when checking Yelp. When I tell you that everything was grossly overpriced believe me. My total bill was $48 before tip for 2 of the most basic put together meals and 2 coffees before tip. I would never go there again, because frankly it wasn't even that good. It was just one rung above ok. Peach French Toast with eggs and Turkey Bacon $16 and a make shift Crab Omelette that was lacking all flavor besides the overwhelming amount of butter for $21.50. The potatoes were basic and not good. The complimentary biscuits were the best thing we got, but the jelly was gross. Save your money folks and just got to McDonalds. Your experience will be better, and your wallet will be thicker. read more
2 years ago
I have been enjoying the delicious food at True Flavors for several years now, I don't live that close so, it's not that frequent. Everything I have tried has been exceptional, from the Crispy Duck Hash to the Blueberry Pancakes and Chicken and Waffles. The service is just as excellent as the food! I love the upscale Diner vibe, the decor has always been so pleasing to me. If you're looking for really amazing southern cuisine and hospitality, check them out. read more
2 years ago
1 year ago
This place just happened to be around the corner of where we were shopping. The food was great with some creative touches. It was obvious that someone in the kitchen had skills. We had the country fried steak biscuit and the blueberry glazed chicken and waffles. Both were very good with unexpected extra touches. On top of that Collin, our server, was excellent. We highly recommend this place for lunch or breakfast. They close at 2pm. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
Mi was in Raleigh for work and yelped for a great breakfast spot. This place came up with great reviews and the food sounded awesome. I arrived with a couple hours to spare until my flight. I walked in and told the waitress I was by myself. The waitress tried seating me at the bar. I told her I would prefer a table so I could get a couple things done for work as well and I am a bigger guy so I don't like the bar seating. She told me since I was alone that's where they seat single customers. I thought she was kidding as there were at least 3 two tops open. She said again they only seat singles at the bar. I walked out without trying the food because the waitress refused to budge on this "rule".... Highly disappointed that an alone traveler during Christmas would not be afforded a small courtesy of being able to sit where they want. I figured I would write this review if you too are traveling alone and try this place or just a single guy/gal looking for a great breakfast place, be prepared to be singled out and sat at the bar away from all the couples and parties. Highly disappointed!!! read more
2 years ago
I sat at the bar. Service was quick and the food was absolutely flavorful and delicious. I'm so cautious now of having really good and flavorful food due to having to watch my sodium intake. The portions were unbelievable. I drove from Greensboro so it was an about a 45 minute drive. I had to make sure I rolled my windows down on the way back because I needed a nap after eating. read more
2 years ago
In the world of diners...True Flavors would be a 5 star Restaurant! The brioche French toast was devilishly SWEET. Sweet potatoe biscuit was great not what I expected. My father raved about how good the sausage and strawberry waffles taste! Service was great! Diner is very small. The only downside is you have to wait outside for a table. My parents were with me, and I was concerned about how long they had to wait outside standing up for a table. read more
3 years ago
The lemon blueberry french toast was phenomenal, and I could happily have just shared that for breakfast. The biscuits and gravy with the mushroom gravy wasn't as much of a win--maybe it really needs that meat gravy but I just wasn't feeling the extra sauciness of all that gravy on the biscuits. Toffee coffee was on the sweeter side, which I enjoyed but probably sweeter than most people like their coffee. Waitstaff was efficient and friendly. read more
4 years ago
My husband and I stumbled upon this gem while visiting family in NC. Omg the breakfast we had was absolutely delicious. I had the cinnamon dusted waffles and my husband ate the farmers omelette ! Both dishes did not disappoint. Everything was fresh and the flavors were amazing!! The freshly baked biscuits were to die for! We will definitely be repeat customers when we visit NC again! read more
1 year ago
3 years ago
Decided to drop in on our way to church this morning and we're so glad we did. Since it was early (8am) there were a few people dining in, but we were immediately greeted by the cheerful and bubbly hostess and able to pick our own table. Our waiter was there taking our drink order within seconds and he was equally as cheerful. Our food orders were taken and we had our food, hot off the griddle, within 10 minutes. Everything was delicious! Although the space isn't very large, it's well lit, extremely clean and the music choice is just right. I'd advise anyone to get there early if possible because after 9am on the weekends, you'll probably have a wait. Regardless of wait time, do yourself a favor and check them out. Your tastebuds will thank you. read more
More info about True Flavors Diner
5410 Hwy 55
Ste AJ
Durham, NC 27713
Directions
(919) 316-7978
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.trueflavorsdiner.com
Hours
Payment methods
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Health Score
Ask the Community - True Flavors Diner
How dob I order ahead of coming inside?
Check their website during business hours. https://www.trueflavorsdiner.com/
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
38 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
2 years ago
1 year ago
7 years ago
2 years ago
7 months ago
6 years ago
7 years ago
1 year ago
4 years ago
10 years ago
10 years ago
10 years ago
6 years ago
8 years ago
3 years ago
3 years ago
8 years ago
8 years ago
10 years ago
