Nanas

The story

Nanas Durham – Contemporary Dining in Rockwood

A Neighborhood Tradition, Reimagined

For over three decades, Nanas has anchored Durham’s leafy Rockwood neighborhood. In recent years, Chef Matt Kelly has reimagined the restaurant, blending its longstanding warmth with a modern sensibility. The dining room and bar strike an inviting balance—casual enough for a weeknight dinner, refined enough for a special evening. The kitchen’s philosophy is rooted in the collective influence of grandmothers, bound up in the warmth of the kitchen and the joy of food prepared with love.

Seasonal Contemporary Menus

The menu changes frequently, driven by local ingredients and seasonal inspiration. Regular highlights include the Twice-Baked Grits Soufflé, Duck Ragout Tagliatelle, and Crispy Lamb Shoulder, as well as a new take on the restaurant’s legendary risotto. Starters like Chicken Liver Mousse with onion marmalade and Wood Grilled NC Core Sound Oysters with Creole sobradasada showcase the kitchen’s range. Pastas—such as Rye Tagliatelle with duck ragout and Uvo Raviolo with guanciale—are a strength, as are wood-grilled proteins like Dry Aged NY Strip and whole NC fish. The bar offers a thoughtful cocktail program and a wine list with over 250 farmer-driven selections.

A Michelin-Recommended Restaurant

Nanas earned a Michelin Recommended distinction in 2026, a testament to its consistent execution and welcoming spirit. It remains a neighborhood restaurant at heart, where contemporary cuisine is served without pretension. Whether at the counter, in the dining room, or at a private event, guests experience the care and creativity that have defined Nanas for decades.