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Best Contemporary American Restaurants in Chapel Hill

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6 restaurants available nearby

A photo of Tandem restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(2070)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Carrboro
Booked 29 times today
Tandem offers modern American cuisine in a sophisticated, yet comfortable atmosphere.
A photo of Jujube restaurant
4.6
Exceptional(1466)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Chapel Hill
Booked 7 times today
Jujube in Chapel Hill is a culinary gem that masterfully blends Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Indian flavors with Western influences, creating an exceptional Fusion/Eclectic dining experience. The menu is a "creative Asian-fusion fare," offering dishes like the "exceptional Tuna Tostadas" and the "delicious Gado Gado and Kung Pao Tofu" that delight and intrigue the palate. Guests rave about the "delightfully flavorful and imaginatively prepared" meals, complemented by an excellent selection of craft beers, wines, and innovative cocktails. The ambiance is enhanced by Asian-themed decor and a welcoming patio, making Jujube a "little gem" that invites diners to return time and again.
A photo of Elements restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(2481)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Chapel Hill
Booked 8 times today
Elements in Chapel Hill stands out as a beacon of Contemporary American cuisine, artfully blending classical and modern techniques with a touch of Asian and European flair. The restaurant's commitment to using local, sustainable ingredients ensures that every dish is not only fresh but also vibrant and full of flavor. Diners consistently rave about the "beautifully presented and tasty" dishes, with favorites like the walnut prawns and Salmon Wellington receiving high praise. The atmosphere is described as "warm, inviting, and quiet," providing a perfect backdrop for the exceptional culinary experience. Whether it's a special occasion or a casual meal, Elements promises "a totally splendid evening" with its outstanding food and impeccable service.
A photo of Fearrington House Restaurant restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(1816)
Price: Very Expensive
• Contemporary american • Chapel Hill
Booked 3 times today
The Fearrington House Restaurant in Chapel Hill, Pittsboro, is a shining star in the realm of American cuisine, offering a transcendent dining experience that beautifully captures the essence of farm-to-fork dining. With Executive Chef Paul Gagne at the helm, the restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in its seasonally changing menu, featuring ingredients sourced from local farms and its own gardens. Guests rave about the "impeccable service" and "artistically plated" dishes that celebrate North Carolina's bounty. As one reviewer exclaimed, it stands "as elegant as any 5-star restaurant," making it an exceptional choice for any special occasion.
A photo of Nanas restaurant
4.8
Exceptional(406)
Price: Expensive
• Contemporary american • Durham
Booked 30 times today
Nanas in Durham, North Carolina, is a beacon of exceptional Southern cuisine, offering a delightful homage to its cherished predecessor, Nana’s, while elevating the dining experience. The restaurant’s menu is a testament to Southern culinary artistry, featuring standout dishes like the Twice-Baked Grits Soufflé and Duck Ragout Tagliatelle. Diners rave about the "phenomenal take on classic Southern food," highlighting the "outstanding quality" and "amazing flavors" that define each dish. With locally-sourced ingredients and a wine selection of over 250 labels, Nanas ensures a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative, making it a must-visit for discerning food lovers.
A photo of Nasher Cafe at Duke University restaurant
4.7
Exceptional(860)
Price: Moderate
• Contemporary american • Durham
Booked 23 times today
Nestled in the heart of Durham, Nasher Cafe at Duke University exemplifies the essence of farm-to-table dining, delivering fresh and locally-sourced ingredients right to your plate. This charming cafe not only offers a delightful blend of creative and authentic flavors but also ensures that every dish is crafted with sustainability in mind. Guests rave about the "fresh and delicious" meals, highlighting the exceptional quality of the ingredients. With a backdrop of serene gardens and stunning sculptures, dining at Nasher Cafe is truly an experience where "the food meets the moment," making it a must-visit for those seeking genuine farm-to-table cuisine.

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Mena
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 1 day ago
    Came here yesterday for my boyfriend’s birthday dinner and would definitely be coming back. The food, service, the experience was all very great.
    More info
    NanaSteakPrice: Expensive• Steakhouse• Durham
    4.8
  • DennisVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •37 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The Valentine's Tasting Menu Dinner was fabulous. Salmon and tuna tartare , followed by shrimp and scallop dumplings, followed by Salmon Wellington and ending with Chocolate cheesecake was absolutely delicious and so well presented. A nice Chardonnay was a great complement. Elements is always a special place to eat and this dinner showed off their expertise. We will be back.
    More info
    ElementsPrice: Expensive• Fusion / Eclectic• Chapel Hill
    4.8
  • LisaVIP
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •75 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    We've been to Tandem many times and always enjoyed our meals there. This time, we had three old favorites: the deviled eggs, the Caesar salad, and the short rib. We also tried the daily catch, which was sea bass with a truffle butter. It was excellent. We will return.
    More info
    TandemPrice: Moderate• Contemporary American• Carrboro
    4.6
  • Steven
    Greensboro / Winston Salem / Highpoint •1 review
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Great Valentines dinner. Started a little bumpy with the seating, but the host and staff were very helpful and resolved the issue very quickly on a very busy night. Sea Bass was amazing, and the service was great!
    More info
    JujubePrice: Expensive• Contemporary Asian• Chapel Hill
    4.6
  • Bob
    Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill •1 review
    5.0
    Dined on Feb 6, 2025
    This place is run and feels like an exquisite symphony. Everything was perfection. We had a few wines that I will remember for a very long time. So many personal touches too in celebration of my birthday. Personalized menus signed by the chef and a goodie bag of beautiful chocolates and a couple jellies. Really an incredible experience that will stay with me for a very long time.
    More info
    Fearrington House RestaurantPrice: Very Expensive• Contemporary American• Chapel Hill
    4.8

Discover best Contemporary American restaurants in Chapel Hill

Discover the vibrant contemporary American dining scene in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area, where culinary innovation meets Southern charm. This region is celebrated for its emphasis on farm-to-table fare, integrating fresh, local ingredients that reflect the seasonal bounty of North Carolina. Restaurants in Chapel Hill, Durham, and Raleigh offer a diverse array of contemporary American cuisine, each presenting unique menus that blend traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques. Diners can expect exceptional service and a welcoming atmosphere that complements the innovative dishes served. Whether you're seeking a casual dining experience or an elegant evening out, the contemporary American restaurants in this area promise to deliver memorable culinary delights. With a commitment to quality and creativity, these dining destinations provide not just a meal, but a sophisticated dining adventure that's deeply rooted in the local culture and cuisine. Experience the best of contemporary American dining in a setting that's as dynamic and inviting as the food itself.

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