The RDU Buzz

By Madeline Cook

GRUB Durham

Homemade biscuits, steamy breakfast bowls, and a full coffee and mimosa bar are hardly what we’d consider “grub”... more like brunchy goodness!  At GRUB Durham, delicious food is just one of the many unexpected delights you’ll discover as you step through the doors of this bright and airy restaurant founded by childhood friends and Durham natives, Stacey Poston and Wendy Woods.  What started as a Saturday urge to get out of the house and into the Spring sunshine led us to GRUB, and we can’t wait to go back.

GRUB sits on the Northwest corner of Chapel Hill and Kent Street in Durham’s historic West End neighborhood.  You’ll recognize it by the red awnings and retro flare, including a neon sign out front reading “GRUB Durham”.  Bike racks under the neon welcome those on two wheels, while guests who drive may opt for the extra parking along Gattis Street.  The lot connected to GRUB has a tendency to fill up quickly, but don’t fret; once parked, there’s plenty of seating all around the restaurant.  From funky booths and barstools inside the main dining area, to spacious patio seating at ground level AND on the rooftop (sunshine and shaded options!) you’re sure to find a perfect spot to enjoy every meal of the day as GRUB does it all! 

For brunch, try a Cowgirl Bowl (approved by cowboys, too!) for tender beef brisket, scrambled eggs, fresh tomatoes and cheddar grits.  This one’s absolutely bursting with flavors; we weren’t surprised when a few regulars who overheard our order commented on that being their favorite dish on the brunch menu.  The lunch/dinner menu offers its own wonderful options.  We’ve got our eye on the Jeweled Bird - a rosemary-lemon roasted chicken salad with dried cranberries and pecans.  Or, embrace dinnertime at GRUB after 5:00 with the “Blue Plate Specials”, ranging from meatloaf, to BBQ ribs and a homemade mac bowl topped with heirloom tomatoes. 

We loved how easy the experience was at GRUB, enjoying top-notch food in a low-fuss ambience.  The upper deck overlooks the charm of the street below and makes for great puppy sightings as contented diners bring their furry friends to join them for a meal ala fresca.  Plan your visit to GRUB between 9:00 A.M. and 3:00 P.M. if you’re wanting breakfast or lunch.  As a heads up, GRUB closes daily between 3:00-5:00 P.M. to prepare for the dinner rush, and is back in business by 5:00 P.M.  Plug 1200 West Chapel Hill Street into your GPS and you’ll be there in no time!  Let us know what else you’ve tried from GRUB, and what’s calling your name for next time!  Menus are conveniently listed on their website here.