Dame's Chicken & Waffles
Phone: (919) 682-9235
If you haven’t tried the iconic Southern staple of chicken and waffles, you may be wondering what makes it so special. When you try Dame’s Chicken and Waffles, you’ll understand. Their combination of crispy chicken, fluffy waffles, caramel drizzle and sweet schmears make a perfect meal for any time of day. Not sure where to start? Try their light brown leghorns complete with four drumsticks and a side of your choice. We'd be remiss not to advise you on 'schmears,' too -- sweet creme butters delicately whipped with the freshest natural ingredients. Our advice? Try them all.
Cuisines
- American
- Casual Dining
- Celebrated Cuisine
- Coffeehouse/Café
- Southern/Cajun/Creole
- Vegan Or Vegetarian-Friendly Menu
Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Map
Google Rating
-
Came from Charlotte for my birthday because I had heard all these wonderful things about Dame's. But to say, I was disappointed is an understatement.
Downside: Our waffles were not hot nor crispy. Which as you can see, the strawberry and creme butter didn't even melt when I put it on top, out of that little paper container. Hot syrup was an up charge to our surprise. Which when we asked our server for some, our waitress says, "that's why we don't even offer it because it's an up charge". So we had to use the cold packets on the table. Smh Also, our cheese grits wasn't hot either, not even hot enough to melt the shredded cheese on top or the butter I had to ask for to put in my grits myself. Our server was very inattentive and always on the run from her tables. Coffee refills and additional creamers had to be asked for numerous times til the others at our table just stopped asking. We had to stop her mid, sprint from the table to pick up used plates/trash to make room for additional items/plates. And the collard greens were basic and flavorless. The cup was full of greens juice that it spilled over the table & we have to wave her down again for additional napkins.
Upside: My fried catfish & strawberry mimosa was BANGINNNN‼️‼️‼️ But idk why they used crushed ice in a mimosa? But it was good. The Mac and cheese was tasty & came out hot with steam coming off it. Like every fried and baked food item should have. The fried chicken wings and chicken cutlets were good & hot and a nice portion size.
Lastly, the atmosphere was loud but spacious. The Black art/photography on the walls and in the restrooms was beautiful.
Honorable mention: The security guard in the parking lot was very nice and helpful. He was better and more attentive than our server. But thanks for having free parking right next to the restaurant. That's awesome!
So with all this being said, I've finally been to Dame's 🤷🏾♀️ but doubt I'll ever be back. However, keep in mind if reading this review: everybody has a bad day and maybe the back of the house-kitchen staff was short. Idk but first impressions are everlasting. So that's that. -
I dont normally write reviews but Seriously this place is such a gem!!! Not only is the service amazing (shout out to Jaci!) but the food is literally a religious experience its so good. If youre within 100 miles or an hour and a half its worth it I promise!!! The shrimp is worth ordering on its own but the shrimp and grits is killer. Of course the chicken is perfectly seasoned and the waffles are just the right amount of soft and fluffy!!! The only thing that could possibly be seen as a negative is that the tea is a tad bit too sweet (and Im from Louisiana). Food takes a second to come out but the atmosphere is great to hang and relax so the time flew by for us! The cook is also so sweet and humble! Overall incredible place and I WILL be coming back as many times as they'll let me.
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Ordered the side of Mac & Cheese and Collard Greens along with a kids side of chicken and waffles. The only thing that came out hot was the chicken. The chicken was very flavorful, cooked to perfection and juicy. The Mac & Cheese was dry and lacked flavor, collard greens was good, just warm.
Now nowwww my friend ordered the shrimp and grits and that was definitely a banger. Going to the chicken place that is known for chicken and waffles and sides, but the best dish turned out to be shrimp and grits and shocking lol. Highly recommend the shrimp and grits.
Also, on the Sunday I visited they had a dj playing gospel music, very loud inside. Sat outside on the patio to actually have a conversation with my friend.
Must likely won’t return. -
Food was wonderful. New cook was in the kitchen so service was a little slow. Shrimp an grits were outstanding!!! Server said cook added peppers by mistake... I would suggest adding it to the recipe. Son had chicken and waffles (oatmeal) which was excellent as well.
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A Majorly Flavorful Stop at Dame's Chicken & Waffles
By the Members of MTCCVA
The Atmosphere & Setting:
Nestled inside the historic Garland Building in Durham, Dame's Chicken & Waffles provided the perfect backdrop for our group of seven to gather, unwind, and reflect on an incredible weekend at the Major Taylor Convention. The space accommodated our party comfortably, offering a warm and inviting environment that immediately made us feel at home.
The Main Event: The Food
If you have never experienced the culinary harmony of hot, crispy chicken paired with fluffy, perfectly cooked waffles, Dame's is the place to try it. Our dishes arrived hot, fresh, and bursting with flavor.
What truly sets Dame's apart, however, is their legendary selection of "shmears" (flavored culinary butters). Our organization had the absolute pleasure of sampling a few standouts, including:
Peach Apricot: A bright, fruity, and sweet addition that paired beautifully with the savory chicken.
Vanilla Almond: A rich, aromatic creaminess that elevated the waffles to a whole new level.
These flavorful shmears aren't just a side note—they are an essential part of the experience that ties the whole meal together.
A First-Class Welcome
What transformed our dinner from a great meal into an unforgettable evening was the hospitality. We were honored with a personal table-side greeting from co-owner Damion Moore, who warmly welcomed the MTCCVA organization to both his restaurant and the city of Durham.
The highlight of our conversation was listening to Damion share his personal background and the inspiration behind his culinary art. Hearing the passion and history that fuels the menu added a rich layer of appreciation to every bite on our plates.
The Verdict
Excellent food, rich history, and top-tier Southern hospitality. Dame's Chicken & Waffles didn't just feed us; they took care of us. If you are in Durham, this is an absolute must-visit.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
We will definitely be back!
#MTCCVA
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