Craving a satisfying lunch in downtown Durham? For something on the lighter side, head to legacy restaurateur Toast for handcrafted, gourmet paninis, seasonal soups and salads. The beloved neighborhood Italian sandwich shop serves farm-fresh produce – don't skip the specials that are always delicious and based on whatever's in season.
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Hours:
Monday: 11:00 AM – 2:15 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 2:15 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 2:15 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:15 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:15 PM Saturday: 11:30 AM – 2:15 PM Sunday: Closed
Everyone was super nice. I also brought the matzo ball soup kit home. It was the closest I’ve ever had to my mom’s! I am super picky, especially about things my mom also makes, so that says a lot
Bernie Gay
Dec 3, 2025
5
Loved this place - great food, service and vibe. Small but mighty!!!!!!
Sophie
Oct 25, 2025
5
best gluten free panini i have EVER had. if you have a gluten allergy you should absolutely try this place! the manager was extremely respectful about my allergy and very helpful and knowledgeable on what i could eat. will definitely be back here!
Katie Hale
Oct 25, 2025
5
Went here with my gluten free friend and the staff was extremely educated and accommodating. The panini was fantastic (both the gluten free and not gluten free one)! Would highly recommend for a cheap delicious bite
Tanvi Kohli
Oct 16, 2025
5
My friend and I stopped here on our way down to Charlotte. Probably the best panini I've ever had. Service was quick. Food was delicious. Atmosphere was great. Highly recommend if you're looking for a local lunch spot!
Katherine B
Jun 9, 2025
5
My absolute favorite place in Durham. Food is delicious, service is great! When I lived downtown it was a weekly staple, and I still make it a habit to eat. Everything on the menu is delicious and fresh. Perfect to eat in or take to go!
Derrick Brown
Jun 6, 2025
5
Amazing atmosphere and service. The food is absolutely delicious. Everything tasted fresh. I had lentil soup and chicken salad. Amazing! Absolutely recommend
ginger downey
May 7, 2025
3
For lunch, outdoor dining was extremely noisy with street traffic and dust from construction across an intersection. Soup was good, liver pate, too spicy, grilled cheese was too oily on the bread/toast and the mozzarella was tasteless.
Ethan Case
Apr 26, 2025
5
My wife and I have been coming here for years. Just had a mutual realization that we've never had a bad meal here. Toast is consistently good because the meals always include quality ingredients. Today, for instance, the broccoli had some kick and the caponata was excellent. Thank you all and hope you keep it up.
Alexandra DiMuzio
Mar 14, 2025
3
I hate to leave a bad review, not sure if they were having a bad day, but my food - the crostini sampler (goat cheese, Merguez Sausage, & chicken liver) + cup of soup (lemon potato), was not good. I was super surprised as I’ve read rave reviews about this place and had it saved in my list of places to try, but I couldn’t even finish it. Would still be interested in trying one of their sandwiches because of their reputation.
