Where Culinary Excellence Meets Southern Hospitality: Durham’s Award-Winning Chefs

By: TLP's Partners

Copy to clipboard

Four acclaimed chefs reveal what inspires their craft and why Durham is the South’s most dynamic food destination

Durham has earned its reputation as one of America’s most exciting food cities. Long known as the City of Innovation, the City of Medicine and the City of Champions as well as the home of Duke University and Durham Bulls baseball, the Bull City now draws travelers specifically for its dynamic restaurant scene — a culinary landscape so vibrant that Bon Appetit dubbed it “America’s Foodiest Small Town” and Southern Living proclaimed it “The Tastiest Town in the South.” With multiple James Beard Award winners and nominees, MICHELIN Guide recognition and a thriving community of innovative chefs, Durham has firmly established itself on the national culinary map.

What makes Durham’s food scene so special isn’t just the accolades — it’s the passion, creativity, diversity and hospitality of the chefs behind the stoves. In an exclusive video series, four of Durham’s most celebrated culinary talents open up about their inspiration, philosophy and deep connection to this city.

Chef Matt Kelly – Nanas

James Beard-nominated Chef Matt Kelly has become a cornerstone of Durham’s dining scene, helming Nanas alongside ventures including Vin Rouge, Mateo Bar de Tapas, Dinos Pizza and Mothers & Sons. His modern American cuisine at Nanas, recognized by the MICHELIN Guide American South, showcases meticulously sourced local ingredients with inventive flair. Kelly moved to Durham specifically for its food scene, and his commitment to the community shines through every thoughtfully crafted dish.

Chef Michael Lee – M Sushi

At M Sushi, Chef Michael Lee creates an intimate omakase experience that has made waves in Durham’s culinary landscape. His dedication to precision and the art of sushi reflects a deep respect for tradition combined with a chef’s creative vision, making M Sushi a standout in a city celebrated for culinary diversity.

Chef Oscar Diaz – Little Bull

Two-time James Beard semifinalist Chef Oscar Diaz has redefined expectations with his bold “pocho cuisine” at Little Bull, recognized by the MICHELIN Guide American South. Diaz proudly embraces his Mexican-American heritage, Chicago upbringing, fine dining training and Southern influences to create food that’s both comforting and surprising. His melting pot approach — unapologetically blending cultures and experiences — reflects Durham’s own spirit of innovation and authenticity. Beyond Little Bull, Diaz’s Durham growing impact extends to Aaktun Coffee & Bar and Tataco.

Chef Preeti Waas – Cheeni

Two-time James Beard semifinalist Chef Preeti Waas has transformed Durham’s understanding of Indian cuisine at Cheeni, where she draws on her memories of home cooking from her childhood in India and her time spent traveling through the country to experience its regional traditions. Her daughter Amy Waas’s The Bar Beej, a speakeasy-style sister bar, earned James Beard semifinalist recognition for Best New Bar in 2025. Together, they’ve created a dining destination that celebrates heritage, innovation and the warmth of thoughtful hospitality.

These four chefs represent what makes Durham extraordinary: a fearless spirit of innovation, a commitment to quality and an authentic love for this community. Watch their stories, then come experience Durham’s award-winning food scene for yourself.