A fun little find. Passing through the Durham area for an overnight stay on our way home to Atlanta. The dinner menu had some great choices and the food was delicious. Funky casual atmosphere with a fine menu. Love a place that allows you to bring in your own wine for a corkage fee, but I am sure we could have found a good selection on their wine list. Our server was excellent. Attentive and personal. Should we make this trip in the future, Refractory Cafe will be a stop on our journey for sure.
DD O
Feb 19, 2022
5
Wonderfully delicious menu. All the items our party tried were great. From soup to appeys to entrees. Really nice menu and friendly service in a super casual and comfy setting. We will be back!
Nicole Ellis
Jan 3, 2022
5
Fantastic! We had the veggie quiche brunch and got a vegan pancake for our little one, so incredibly delicious and very fresh. There was a good amount of vegan options too! The staff was lovely and helpful and the food came out fairly quickly. We will definitely be coming back!
Jerri Jordan
Jul 24, 2019
4
I liked it because it was clean and i liked the way it was setup. Only 2 things: if you have never been before, you wind up standing at the door waiting to be seated not knowing you have too order at the register then seat yourself. Secondly, had shrmp n grits, which was good but it was a little watery with not too much flavor. Use to the sauce being thicker & spicier. Otherwise, you will enjoy it.
Scott McKeown
Oct 11, 2019
4
Well-prepared, tasty food. Cocktails are wonderful and desserts sublime - what's not to like?
Fit Kid
Jul 9, 2019
5
Man oh man. This was a great pick. The good was amazing and the desserts was just as good. Very friendly and comfortable environment. When in Durham this is a must go place.
Amy C
Nov 13, 2019
4
This is listed as gluten free, but there are not many options. The salad I had was very yummy so I'll give 4 stars. But I would recommend expanding the menu. It's a little pricey, but worth it for one trip.
G Hailey
Nov 13, 2019
4
Entrees are good, but portions are small with the exception of the desserts. The coffee is excellent. The desserts are worth the money. Did I say the dessert portions are huge?! Well worth a visit.
Larry Donaldson
Dec 11, 2019
5
I celebrated my PhD earlier this evening in this fine place. I am glad to say that we enjoyed a phenomenal evening and the venue was absolutely one of the reasons for this happy celebration. The stuff cooperated in a lovely way, the food was tasty and my friends were so pleased. We shall definitely come back again for more events. Thank you very much.
Beverly Harrington Falls
Dec 3, 2019
4
This is a restaurant with a good selection and vegetarian options. It was once at Duke University Seminary but relocated in the 2010s to its current location. There are two prominent competing restaurants nearby with similar selections but a friend and I had a delightful dinner here recently. They kept the interior so subdued for a few minutes I was not sure they were open.
B Robertson
Dec 1, 2019
5
Delicious! The vegan chili was great! They are always very accommodating to my dairy allergy, too. They staff has very good knowledge of the ingredients in every dish.
Ryan Sawhill Aroha
Dec 15, 2019
4
Staff were great and we got our food quickly. Had some good french toast, potatoes, eggs... I would definitely like to come back again to try more of the veg/vegan options.
Marcela Lastre
Jan 2, 2020
5
The food and staff were great! We arrived on a busy afternoon and there was enough parking. We had a lot of food and were able to take some home. I loved the laid back atmosphere.
Mike Xenos
Jan 3, 2020
5
The Delmonico steak was cooked to perfection. If you've read my previous post, you know I will use condiments if needed. Not in this case. The pre-season and expert char is more than enough flavor to accompany the scratch made sides. A must visit if you are wanting to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city.
Susan Montani
Feb 2, 2020
3
Maybe it was a bad day? At breakfast specialty coffee maker not working, no reg. Coffee in decanter, cheese grits like "soup" & very spicy. Quiche "okay" (good crust). Reason I will give it another try is the Key Lime pie slices purchased to go were amazing!!
Rick Hobbs
Feb 12, 2020
5
Great local place to eat and also get work done. Friendly staff who I have seen handle the most *ahem* particular of customers with kindness. I've even had the chef tell me to change my order because they weren't happy with the quality of the fresh ingredients.This is a really great place. Try it as an alternative to the other breakfast places on the same road, too.
Caitlin Travels
Feb 9, 2020
5
One of my favorite places in Durham. Everything here always tastes incredible. Their tomato soup is spectacular. I also LOVE their kale salad. Sometimes I wish they used a little more dressing so I ask for more on the side.
Keith Rench
Mar 11, 2019
5
A little cafe that we enjoyed a delicious breakfast out on their patio. It was a gorgeous day outside and the birds were chirping. The breakfast burrito is huge, so plan on sharing it! My wife and I shared the burrito and a large grits. It was more than enough food for the two of us. The grits were pretty spicy, so beware if you can't handle spicy foods! If we lived here, we'd totally come back for more!
Will Sutton
May 7, 2020
4
To go lunch during Covid-19...Our company ordered lunch for us today. There were a lot of options to choose from...Salmon, veggie burger, turkey reuben, chicken sandwich and a salad. I selected the NY Turkey Reuben. It was delicious.... pretty thick and filling with lots of flavor. I would definitely get it again.
Shae Rob
Jun 2, 2020
5
Everything is freshly made andyou can tell it's homemade with the best ingredients. The butter, yes the butter, is one of the best I've tasted in my life. I think I've found my go-to restaurant! Well worth the price! I've only had the breakfast and the lemon cheesecake thus far. Can't wait to try more!
Vica Billings
May 28, 2020
5
Decided to check this place out for a to-go lunch. I got the Cobb salad and I will say it's honestly the best salad I've ever had. Quality ingredients, delicious vinaigrette, perfect portion. Will definitely be a regular customer.
Elizabeth Baltaro
Jul 3, 2020
5
Best covid take-out! We’ve ordered from many restaurants and Refectory wins for the BEST ordering/ pick up experience yet— plus full menu options. Delicious food. We keep ordering again and again.
Thomas Monaco
Jun 29, 2020
5
Very clean and COVID prepared/safe. Super friendly staff. Plenty of nice pasties
J L
Jul 1, 2020
5
SUPERB, EPICUREAN DELIGHTS & SUPERB AND AUTHENTICALLY KIND AND FRIENDLY AND RESPONSIVE TEAM!ASK TO MEET LAURA, THE OWNER! YOU’LL SEE WHY!!! SHE’S REAL AND KIND AND SUPER BRIGHT, WARM-HEARTED, AND OUTSTANDING GOURMET & HEALTHY CHEF!ENJOY LIFE!
Andy Singh Jr
Jul 11, 2020
5
An excellent well-run establishment. Friendly people who can whip up some really good food. Management is always wiping down tables, wearing masks, and they really seem to care for the well-being of their customers during COVID-19. 5 stars!!!!!
Michele D
Jul 27, 2020
5
I live in Oregon and my mom lives in Raleigh so I ordered some food and desserts to be delivered to my mom today for her birthday. They were so easy to work with start to finish and my mom was incredibly touched by the love that was put into a handwritten card they made and an extra sweet greeting at the door (no contact delivery). Super delicious and veggie friendly options. Thanks guys!!!
Reggie Scruggs
Aug 1, 2020
5
The food here is always fresh and tasty.
Joe M.
Jul 28, 2020
5
Great breakfast! Outdoor seating available so we brought the dogs. Really nice covered patio with lots of potted plants and good music playing. Great challah French toast and lemon ricotta pancakes!
Christine Goettel
Aug 29, 2020
5
What's not to love? Staff are fantastic, food is to die for. Just make sure to save room for dessert - they come out with a dessert platter with the options, all made in house by their pastry chef. My only disappointment is that we didn't find this place sooner. I mourn all the missed meals.
Rita Musante
Aug 27, 2020
5
Best lunch in town! Try beef tacos, French dip or tasty salads... and made in house key lime pie for dessert. Everything is delicious and highly recommended
Ciro Mcalpine
Sep 3, 2020
5
My brother and I had amazing fresh salads—the spicy shrimp and the Carolina Cobb. The staff were super friendly and kept hydrated on a hot day. The blue hibiscus tea hit the spot. Everyone there, including the patrons, had masks on. We are so glad we found this special place.
Dane Fearon
Sep 19, 2020
5
Great service. A place you could spend the whole day at.
Steph
Sep 19, 2020
5
Great vibe, amazing service, and the huevos rancheros are incredible! Can't wait to go back.
SHIRRELL THOMAS
Sep 2, 2020
5
Good food and good social distancing.
Steven DiFiore
Oct 5, 2020
5
The staff and owner are very friendly and kind. I was part of a large group that went there last minute and everyone at the Refectory was accommodating. Not only that, but the food is absolutely phenomenal. With a wide array of delicious vegan and vegetarian options, even a meat eater like me found the food most satisfying. I'm definitely going to make it a point to dine here when I visit Durham in the future.
Olympia Jackson
Oct 21, 2020
4
First time. Nice, quiet, clean. The service was good as well. Food was good. Family of 6. No complaints. I would go back to try some desserts. They looked quite good.
JTyrone White
Sep 5, 2020
4
The staff, was excellent and so was the casual atmosphere. My wife had eggs, breakfast potatoes and gf toast. Her experience was 5 star.I had the meat quiche, but could not detect any meat however it still taste delicious.We will certainly go back.Also nice outdoor accommodations.
Allan Voichuk
Nov 28, 2020
5
Great vegan food options. The service is always great. The staff is really nice. They made really good vegan cheesecake too. I'm really impressed with the chefs skills in terms of making vegan dishes that are often not vegan.
Darryle Banks
Dec 6, 2020
5
In search of alternative eating. I found The Refectory Cafe to be spot on. Their customer service is great and knowing that some of there menu items are in house made is a plus. Definitely if you are in the area stop in and grab a bite very spacious and lovely out door seating.
rana ryan
Dec 16, 2020
5
The title says it all, the owner, Laura Hall, walked us through the all natural ingredients list. Nothing short of spectacular. All the food was wonderful and the people are truly special!! Definitely recommend!! The staff goes out of the way to please and make your dining experience enjoyable. Highly recommend!
Caitlin Hatch
Dec 13, 2020
5
Excellent food and drinks. We had the bacon avocado toast and the french dip sandwich, both were delicious. I also got an Irish cream latte off the seasonal menu and it was delicious, very warming and festive. Definitely recommend!
AL Lindsay
Jan 3, 2021
5
Brunch with a few friends at The Refectory Cafe today and found the service exceptional. Placed my order and went outside to get a table and before I sat down with my coffee, my order was at the table. I have dined here prior to the current environment, but I found the service to be better than previous visits. Food is always good. The Open Face Salmon on Avocado Toast was divine! There are excellent Servers here. Great dining experience !!
Jea Hyun Kim
Jan 22, 2021
5
Great selection of healthy sandwiches, friendly staffs, and quick service. Salmon avocado sandwich that I tried was a classic homemade style sandwich with fresh veggies. The proportion of veggies and salmon was also on point, and I would definitely return to try their other sandwiches. Highly recommend to people who enjoy traditional style sandwiches and soups.
Lesley Mastandrea
Feb 3, 2021
5
This place is OUTSTANDING. Everything. The food, the staff, the service... the desserts. So good! We are in town for a few days and have eaten here twice already. Have had breakfast and lunch and both were excellent. We plan on going back tomorrow!
Dr. Alisha Cornell
Jun 16, 2019
5
I've NEVER had a bad meal at this placeWe come nearly every week and have eaten most of the food with 0 errors. The owner, Laura, is the most delightful and energetic soul to ever own a restaurant. You can taste the love in every drink, dessert, and entree. I've eaten at the best restaurants and by far this 1 holds it's weight. Don't miss out on this hidden gem and don't read any of the negative reviews, some have too much time on their hands to enjoy this treasure.
Sandra Morris
Apr 24, 2019
5
The cake made by The Refectory Cafe’s pastry chef Rosa for our wedding was FABULOUS. We have several close family members who have gluten intolerance, so we wanted a cake they could share with us and The Refectory Cafe’s lemon raspberry cake with cream cheese frosting was divine. You would never even know it was gluten free. Rosa gave us a very fair price for the largest size (12”) round cake. It was very tall, with lots of lucious icing, and served ~40-50 people (when cut like a usual wedding cake). It was extremely fresh and moist. Everyone raved about it. She kept the decoration simple (some piping around the edge) per our request, so our florist could easily add some fresh flowers for decoration. The catering manager, Geri, was wonderful to work with. She was easy to reach by phone/email and helped coordinate getting some requested paperwork to our venue coordinator. She checked in immediately after the wedding to make sure everything had gone smoothly. We have been to The Refectory Cafe many times together for both their savory food and desserts (highly recommend both) and are so glad we were able to make this local business a part of our wedding day!
Kim Priebe
Apr 18, 2019
5
I want there with friends to celebrate a 50th birthday lunch. We reserved a table in advance and was glad for that, as it was busy and the owner set a table aside for us in the corner. I ordered the salad with grilled salmon. Delicious. Two friends ordered the chicken and waffles, and reported the chicken was moist and tasty. We got wine at the counter, and the owner and bus staff graciously took our orders for a second round from the table. The owner offered for the pastry chef to make a birthday cake, so I special ordered one. They made a coconut cake with fresh strawberries. It was moist and delicious! I advise people to save room for dessert! Great find for healthy, tasty food.
Joshua Allen
Apr 27, 2019
5
Amazingly handcrafted dishes that delight the pallet. The ribeye platter was on point and highly recommended. Additionally the coffee was simply amazing. You can spend big money at Starbucks but you still will not get the same flavors and depth.
Heather Swift
Jun 26, 2019
5
It was romantic and the food was excellent! My fiancee ordered the vegan chili and it was some of the best chili that I've ever ate, let alone a vegan dish. the owner was very kind and she came up and made sure that everything was okay and she was fantastic also. I would definitely go and eat there again Time after Time!
Kaylaa T. Blackwell
Jul 7, 2019
5
Awesome and completely yummy Sunday Brunch. Great menu with lots of choices and generous portions...so it was a pleasure to eat and take home leftovers. There were so many things we wanted to try...so definitely have to keep going back so we can do just that...LOL😊. Last but not least, the place was so relaxing you will not be in a rush to leave and its easy to to not realize the time passing.
catherine wilson
Jun 19, 2019
5
One of the most charming eateries in Durham! Service is excellent (servers are cheerful and courteous), food is delicious (in particular the Greek yogurt cheesecake!) and the atmosphere is lovely (the fresh flowers add a nice touch). Five out of five stars.
Jerri Jordan
Scott McKeown
Fit Kid
Amy C
G Hailey
Larry Donaldson
Beverly Harrington Falls
B Robertson
Ryan Sawhill Aroha
Marcela Lastre
Mike Xenos
Susan Montani
Rick Hobbs
Caitlin Travels
Keith Rench
Shae Rob
Vica Billings
Elizabeth Baltaro
Thomas Monaco
J L
Andy Singh Jr
Michele D
Reggie Scruggs
Joe M.
Christine Goettel
Ciro Mcalpine
Dane Fearon
Steph
Olympia Jackson
JTyrone White
Allan Voichuk
rana ryan
Caitlin Hatch
AL Lindsay
Dr. Alisha Cornell
Sandra Morris
Kim Priebe
Joshua Allen
Heather Swift
Kaylaa T. Blackwell
catherine wilson