The Refectory Cafe

Refectory

We went to the Refectory Cafe for lunch on a Saturday (they were doing brunch). We walked in and weren’t sure where to order at first. We walked to the register and ordered. They gave us a stand for our table (not a number). Our food came out very fast and it was delicious. I got the French Dip sandwich it was so good. I opted for traditional French fries they were the best fries I’ve had for a while. The French Dip was amazing it had the perfect amount of meat. My boyfriend got the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich he loved it he said it had the perfect amount of crunch from the toasted bun and the sauce was perfect. We liked it so much we came the next day as well. This was Sunday it said wait to be seated so we did, we sat down and were told to order at the front. A little confusing but no big deal. I ordered the Grilled Chicken Sandwich with fries my boyfriend got the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich again and I got my son the butternut squash soup. The chicken sandwich was really good. The French dip however was my favorite. The squash soup was ok, my fussy 1 year old wouldn’t eat much of it. We will definitely be back though!

This little cafe is a delicious little spot for a date or get together with friends. The food was phenomenal and the service was friendly albeit a little different than expected. After you're seated by the friendly staff you go up to a counter to order your food and beverages. They bring your food out to your table after.

The short rib on the huevos rancheros was tender and flavorful. The savory scone was delicious and the salted caramel mocha was comforting and balanced. Will definitely be returning.

I do suggest calling ahead for reservations if possible and be aware that the parking situation is pretty tough with the small lot and on street spaces filling up quick for the popular cafe!

This cute little place was delicious. I love that they have vegan options AND vegan desserts to take home with me. I had a tofu bowl and a smoothie and took home vegan gluten free cheesecake and a chocolate chip cookie. The staff was kind and inviting and friendly. Will definitely eat here the next time I am in Durham.

First time here this morning and I will be back. Food is delicious. Faustine greeted us at the door with such an awesome vibe/spirit. Great atmosphere ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Easily one of the best restaurants in the triangle! I am yet to have a bad meal here. The staff is very friendly, attentive and caring, and the atmosphere is excellent with solid indoor and outdoor dining options. The effort that goes into making everything is obvious thanks to the high level of quality in each dish. Two things I am very picky about when eating out are calamari and eggs Benedict, and both are absolutely phenomenal here among all other things I have tried. I cannot recommend the Refectory Café enough!

The only thing better than the bright, sunny atmosphere here is the incredible food. It’s real, nutritious, and so amazingly delicious. You can never leave The Refectory feeling anything but incredible! The food feels nourishing in a way that many restaurants are incapable of achieving but The Refectory makes it happen. I would recommend The Refectory to anyone because it meets all diets and needs without sacrificing amazing taste!

Made reservations for a larger party for brunch and our table was set for us before we arrived. Be aware you do have to go to the counter to order or order on your phone. We ordered and our food arrived quickly. Everyone really enjoyed what they got. I got the smoked salmon eggs Benedict and it was delicious!
Will definitely come back.

Nice place to have your midday brunch. The food is good, service outstanding and atmosphere peaceful.

I had the shrimp and grits for the first time, and it was DELICIOUS! My daughter had the Cobb Salad, and my friend had the French Toast, we enjoyed everything!

The food was very fresh. The menu has a lot of options including the choice of vegan and healthy dishes. On the pictures you see Avocado toast with bacon (would like to have a little more avocado), vegan Pancakes (Just GREAT!), Eggs Benedict(also great!). They also have good coffee and chai latte. Milk options available.

Soooo this is my 2nd time dining at this ABSOLUTELY AMAZING CAFE! From its sweet modest character, to the stellar service and the amazing attitudes of the people (everyone) who helps run this freakin rad bad restaurant, to the most delish brunch items around town! They also have a great mimosa flight special which you can't beat! I love this place! The 2nd time we came we brought a few new folks and they fell in love too! Keep those chefs and the amazing front of the house staff! See you this wknd! 😊😉

I brought a group of friends here and we loved everything served! I had a Mimosa, Vegan Cheesecake and Vegan Pancakes. The food was melt in your mouth good! It came out quickly after we ordered and the staff were great!

Wanted to order a sandwich from here but was hungover, So breakfast it was got the Rise & Shine Breakfast and didn't regret it everything was cooked perfectly and tasted great

Wow! We had seen The Refectory Cafe on Out and About so we decided to check it out. It was fantastic! I had the Crab Cake Burger with a side of veggies, delicious! I loved the sriracha aioli (not too hot), the fennel and pepper slaw, and the crab cake was loaded with fresh herbs. I appreciate veggies as a side option, and they were perfectly cooked. My husband had the French Dip and chips, also delicious. Good ciabatta bread, and a nice mix of light, crisp chips. They have a nice selection of vegan and vegetarian options as well. Will definitely be going back next time we're in Durham!

I always stop by Refectory when I’m in Durham! They have the best food in town, and the service is always quick and friendly! I’ve loved everything I’ve tried but especially recommend the baked oatmeal, quiche, and lemon pancakes!!

Finally found a great spot in Durham since we moved from NYC. The ingredients are very fresh and delicious. The Huevos Rancheros were delicious and filling. My chicken and waffle was lightyears ahead of what they served me at Dame's. Beyond what you expect for a Cafe in the South. This place has earned some new "Regulars"
Also they have the Cholula from Mexico ; the better one 😊

Lovely dining outside under cascades of jasmine flowers. Great desserts in variety, appearance, and taste.

DELICIOUS!! Was a little concerned since it seemed pricey at first but it was absolutely amazing! I got the chicken and waffles and loved it, would go back!

Healthy food and cozy atmosphere. Stuff are careful and kind, so no concerns but not our type desserts. I think it’s a place to visit once and enjoy a good company, but don’t expect no ordinary memories.

Went here today for the first time. Loved it. Sitting outside reminded me a lot of Mt Pleasant outside of Charleston. I had one of the specials, the meat quiche which was ham, bacon and spinach that came with a side salad. Also ordered the cheesy grits. They were great. A little bit on the peppery side. Seating was a bit confusing so I asked: the hostess stand is for dinner. You go through the line and place your order and sit down any other time.