Forest Hills, a tranquil and leafy pocket just southwest of Downtown Durham, is quietly building a reputation as a local food haven. While neighboring districts like Downtown and Lakewood steal much of the culinary spotlight, Forest Hills rewards adventurous eaters with an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and food trucks. Whether you’re strolling along University Drive or hunting for that perfect morning pastry off Chapel Hill Road, this neighborhood surprises with new flavors and friendly, welcoming spaces. Here’s your go-to guide to savoring the very best of the Forest Hills dining scene!
Standout Restaurants: Culinary Excellence in the Heart of the Neighborhood
Forest Hills may be understated, but its restaurants span global cuisines and local flavors, often emphasizing fresh, seasonal ingredients. On University Drive, a corridor famed for its blend of casual and upscale dining, these are the spots locals rave about:
- Nana’s (2514 University Dr): A longtime anchor in Durham’s fine-dining scene, Nana’s offers a rotating menu showcasing seasonal American and European fare. Think melt-in-your-mouth truffled veal ravioli, perfectly roasted fish, and legendary desserts. Elegant but never stuffy, with entrées typically in the $25-40 range, Nana’s is perfect for date nights or celebrations.
- Thai Cafe (2501 University Dr): This no-fuss Thai staple is a local favorite for bold flavors and generous portions. Regulars swear by the panang curry and pad kee mao, which pair perfectly with a tangy Thai iced tea. Entrées run $12-17, offering great value for authentic dishes in a casual atmosphere.
- Enzo’s Pizza Co. (2608 Erwin Rd, just north of Forest Hills): Known for its doughy, New York-style slices and inventive specialty pies, Enzo’s draws pizza lovers from across Durham. Their white pizza and “Durm” pie are must-tries, and gluten-free options abound. Whole pies range from $18-28.
Cafés & Bakeries: Cozy Retreats and Pastry Delights
Craving a morning latte or artisanal loaf of bread? Forest Hills is dotted with cozy cafés and independent bakeries.
- Guglhupf Bakery (2706 Chapel Hill Rd): This German bakery and café is a Durham icon. Bask in the garden patio while sipping espresso and savoring pretzel croissants, dense rye breads, or a slice of the decadent Black Forest cake. On weekends, brunch crowds gather here for crisp schnitzel sandwiches and fluffy omelets. Prices are moderate with pastries in the $3-6 range and hearty breakfast plates hovering around $12.
- Bean Traders Coffee (105 W NC 54 Hwy): Tucked just outside Forest Hills, this whimsical café roasts its own beans and offers everything from classic pour-overs to rich mochas. Their chewy bagels and local bakery pastries pair delightfully with their ethically sourced coffee. Prices are wallet-friendly—expect to spend $4-7 for drinks and $2-5 for baked goods.
Food Trucks: Flavor on Four Wheels
Food trucks bring global eats right into the heart of Forest Hills. Some regularly park at the intersection of University Dr and Chapel Hill Rd (look for them evenings and weekends), while others pop up at nearby breweries and parks.
- La Vaquita Taqueria (2700 Chapel Hill Rd): Unmissable thanks to the giant cow atop its roof, La Vaquita is a beloved taqueria stationed at the edge of Forest Hills. Authentic, affordable, and fast, their carnitas tacos and al pastor tortas are out of this world. Most items are under $10, making it a favorite among students and locals alike.
- The Dankery (varies): When The Dankery rolls through, expect crispy chicken tenders, gourmet mac & cheese, and loaded fries. Follow their social channels for their current Forest Hills schedule.
Hidden Gems & Local Traditions
Beyond the headliners, Forest Hills rewards the curious diner with “if you know, you know” eats and old-school traditions.
- Grub Durham (1200 W Chapel Hill St): Found on the fringes of Forest Hills, Grub serves up classic American comfort food with modern upgrades. Their “biscuit tower” breakfast and chicken biscuit sandwiches are local legends. For lunch, try a smoked brisket melt or the ever-rotating fresh salads. Most plates fall within the $8-15 range, and the rooftop bar is perfect for sunny afternoons.
- Foster’s Market (2694 Chapel Hill Rd): Famed chef Sara Foster’s gourmet deli, market, and café is a Forest Hills essential. With colorful salads, sprawling sandwiches, and baked treats galore, Foster’s embodies farm-fresh Southern fare with a creative twist. Don’t miss the pimento cheese or gooey cinnamon rolls. Eat inside or picnic on the lawn—this spot is as family-friendly as it gets.
- Bar Virgile (105 S Mangum St, a short stroll north): While technically just outside Forest Hills’ northern border, Bar Virgile’s French–Southern small plates and artfully mixed cocktails make it a “worth the walk” destination for Forest Hills locals.
Where Foodies Gather: Forest Hills’ Flavorful Hotspots
Several Forest Hills intersections have become mini food clusters:
- Chapel Hill Road & University Drive: This is the main foodie node, with Guglhupf, La Vaquita, Foster’s Market, and Nana’s all within a few blocks.
- University Drive Corridor: You’ll find a parade of eateries from fast-casual spots to cozy dining rooms. It’s walkable, with plenty of parking and leafy side streets perfect for post-meal strolls.
- Food Truck Fridays: During warmer months, University Drive lots host rotating trucks offering everything from Venezuelan arepas to Korean bibimbap, creating a festive, picnic-style neighborhood tradition.
Why Forest Hills Food Scene Is Special
What sets Forest Hills apart isn’t just its unique mix of longstanding icons and scrappy upstarts—it’s the sense of community and the neighborhood’s approachable, laid-back vibe. Here, farm-to-table isn’t a marketing slogan; it’s simply how locals eat. You’ll find chefs and owners behind the counter, recommending their favorites and remembering your name. Whether you’re wooed by European-style breads at Guglhupf, shaking hot sauce onto La Vaquita’s tacos, or sharing wine and laughter at Nana’s, dining in Forest Hills feels both fresh and familiar.
So next time you’re deciding where to eat, skip the downtown bustle and let Forest Hills’ hidden gems (and those well-loved classics) guide your tastebuds. Your new favorite meal is waiting—just around the corner!