Established in 2005, the original goal of the Refectory Café was to be a one-of-a-kind farm-to-table restaurant where every diet classification delights in delicious, satisfying, creative food from a common menu. Let them cater your event or join them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner outside on their lovely outdoor patio.
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Hours:
Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The Refectory Cafe is a true gem in Durham’s brunch scene. We tried the avocado toast and the breakfast bowl with grits, both of which were flavorful, fresh, and beautifully presented. The avocado toast was vibrant and perfectly seasoned, while the breakfast bowl combined creamy grits with hearty ingredients that made for a satisfying start to the day.
We also sampled the chicken and waffles—crispy, tender, and just the right amount of indulgent. What stood out across all dishes was the freshness of the ingredients and the attention to detail in preparation.
The cafe also offers a solid range of vegetarian options, making it an inclusive spot for different dietary preferences. The atmosphere is warm and relaxed, and the service was friendly and efficient.
Highly recommend for anyone looking for a fresh, delicious breakfast or brunch in Durham.
Tamatha Dowdy
Jun 14, 2025
5
The service was great, the food was fresh & good. Pineapple bourbon old fashioned was just right. Very homey feel.
jeanette wilson
Jun 10, 2025
5
I went here over the weekend and had a craving for something topped with pico de gallo—paired with a glass of champagne, of course. The vibe was great, and the food hit the spot. Just a heads-up: it’s a bit on the pricey side, so bring your wallet—but it’s definitely worth it. Bonus: if you don’t finish your wine or champagne, they’ll bag the bottle for you to take home.
Sondra Haithcock
May 1, 2025
5
Went for an office birthday lunch. Even with it being busy, the atmosphere was still very nice and inviting. You walk in, place your order & pay, then they bring the food to you. The servers were nice, the lady that cleared the table was very nice, and the food was good. It wasn't too noisy while we were there. The parking on the side of the building was a little tight but I still managed.
Imisha Debuka
Apr 5, 2025
5
Their specialty coffees are a must try ☕️Great great service, friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere for morning coffee as well as evening hangout. Great place for a first date as well. 😉 They have many veg food options which was a pleasant surprise ✨
Noelia Bautista
Mar 23, 2025
3
The service was very, very slow, and in my opinion, the food wasn’t good, too many fried options and nothing healthy. The presentation wasn’t even nice, and the juice was obviously not fresh.
MK
Mar 16, 2025
5
Loved our visit. Great food options, quick and courteous service with a smile and nice tables. The banana pudding cheese cake was amazing. Not too sweet, just perfect.
Raing Yao (Julia)
Feb 18, 2025
5
The dining room was beautiful 💐
I especially enjoyed their honey mustard dressing, it’s special and a bit spicier than the common ones from grocery stores.
Rachele Wharton
Feb 12, 2025
5
Fantastic brunch spot with an extensive menu - everything is clearly labeled. Came here with friends who had the crab cake burger and fries. I ordered the veggie quiche with side of avocado. My husband ordered the tofu scramble hash. Everything was fresh and delicious. Highly recommend trying this place!
Raven
Jan 25, 2025
3
The food was decent, but the ambiance was lovely. Truly, I enjoyed it. I had the French toast, which was a bit dry, but overall not terrible. He peppermint mocha latte I had was delicious, though very small for the price. All in all, I'd go back.
Sweet Dreams
Dec 11, 2024
5
Ordered a specialty Christmas espresso drink and the crab cake sandwich. Their food is delicious and I’d love to come back again to try the desserts in the window toward checkout. Lots of vegan options and friendly to most allergies. Staff were friendly and helpful.
Laura Boatman
Oct 27, 2024
5
This was a "happy little accident"! We originally came over here for Guglhupf, and pulled into this parking lot, decided to go in, and we're more than pleasantly surprised! The food is flavorful, healthy, and I feel full-and clean- eating it! I had the Fresh Strawberry smoothie and Baked Oatmeal. The smoothie is so fresh- like it came from a garden! The Baked Oatmeal is just that! It's crunchy on top from being baked, it's slightly squishy in the middle with blueberries. I love oatmeal and this made my day! My fiance had French Toast and his face lit up! It has not lit up like that in YEARS!! Over the moon happy!!
lucrezia povero
Sep 29, 2024
5
Delicious comfort food with plenty of vegan options. Wide selection of desserts (also vegan). The staff is friendly and professional. High quality tea and great wine list.
Olivia R.
Sep 18, 2024
5
Wonderful atmosphere, great Food, great service every time.
This is where I take friends for breakfast or brunch
It has become one of my favorite spots.
The shrimp and grits is completely out of this world.
Amazing cooks. I can’t say I have ever left disappointed!
Jaden Brown
Sep 14, 2024
5
Came to town for a wedding in Durham. Plenty of good breakfast and lunch options. The Rise & Shine breakfast was perfect.
Becky Moughal
Sep 7, 2024
5
The food was great! Definitely passed the vibe check for me- since we were seated outside. Went there for a lazy Saturday morning breakfast and ended up loving their chicken and waffles. Enough parking they forgot to bring out my peach sweet tea but we requested the refund and wasn't given nasty attitude like other spots these days. Overall good experience and good food!
