Watts Grocery

Watts Grocery

Address: 1116 Broad Street

Phone: (919) 416-5040

Website: http://www.wattsgrocery.com

Recommended for: Working Lunch; Being Seen  

wesduke says:

"Watts Grocery is a relatively new addition to the Durham dining scene, and considering that the space housed, until recently, a very low-traffic Oriental rug store, it is impressive that this restaurant has managed to become something of at "It" spot. Sitting at a table at Watts Grocery is a bit like being at the nexus of a burgeoning 'scene' in Durham. In addition to the standard 'mommies-who-lunch,' and Duke undergraduate crowd, there are usually also several blazer-and-tie-wearing businessfolk conducting lunch meetings during the midday service. 

Beyond a good place to be seen, Watts Grocery is a good place eat--creating a menu that focuses on locally grown and produced ingredients, chef Amy Tornquist turns out sustainable and delicious dishes (Tornquist is formerly of the Nasher Museum Cafe on Duke's campus, and if you managed to have one of her 'Grown-Up Cupcakes' before she left the Nasher, you know Watts Grocery is worth a visit). The grilled yellowtail tuna is a favorite--the sandwich is flavorful, and the red pepper mayo gives it just the right amount spiciness (for a Southern twist, try it with a side of the farmer's cheese hushpuppies). If you've left room for dessert, they offer red velvet cupcakes Monday-Friday.

Demand can sometimes outpace availability at Watts Grocery, so call ahead for a reservation (particularly on holidays or Duke-related events like Reunion or Graduation weekend)."