Durham, N.C., is not a typical venue for Alabama football, but while Crimson Tide fans might not be accustomed to the trip to Duke, there’s reason to rejoice for fans making the journey.
The Washington Duke Inn, located on the Duke University campus, is home to fine dining and a scenic Southern atmosphere.
“The Washington Duke Inn has won the AAA four diamond award for 18 consecutive years,” said Jim Bressler, director of sales and marketing. “It is a highly respected restaurant in a town of Durham which is gaining a ton of momentum.”
The Fairview Dining Room, located inside the Washington Duke Inn, offers a different dining experience than what the typical sports fan might be used to; however, the rich Southern atmosphere and exquisite menu make it a must when visiting Durham.
“This would be a high-end fine dining experience,” Bressler said. “We really spend time on the food preparation to make sure it is a good experience.
“There is a very traditionally elegant Southern style feel to it,” he said. “From the colors to the beautiful ornate chandeliers that are in the room, it is a great experience. Also, right outside the dining room is a beautiful canvas-covered patio that has outdoor seating which is an extension to the indoor facility, and you just get that much closer to the outdoor environment.”
The view from the dining hall looks out onto the University of Duke golf club, designed by Robert Trent Jones. While eating, guests have a scenic view of the practice greens, as well as of the number one and number two tee boxes.
If guests are planning on eating on their way to the game, the dining room serves as an accessible option. Since the Washington Duke Inn is located on the Duke University campus, the dining hall is only a short walk from Wallace Wade Football Stadium.
The Washington Duke offers more than just a great view and a great location; both the Bull Durham Bar and the Fairview Dining Hall located in the Inn offer a menu that local residents say cannot be beat.
“It is definitely a place that I think is top drawer, and the food is delicious,” said Duke alumnus Austin Triggs. “Their hamburger cannot be beat. My daughter who went to school at Wake Forrest, her favorite thing to do when we get back to the area is to have a hamburger at the Washington Duke Inn.”
Alabama fans, like most football fans, are known for their love of beef on game days. Bressler said the dining hall specializes in some of the dishes that Alabama fans might enjoy.
The dining hall offers a six-ounce fillet with a slice of wedge lettuce, sliced onions and blue cheese dressing.
“It is a terrific lunch piece,” Bressler said. “It is the kind of thing you might think you might get in the evening at a chophouse.”
Bressler said the Washington Duke is preparing for the influx of Alabama fans and hopes that fans will stop by and experience the food for themselves.
“It is a perfect place,” Bressler said. “It’s a great place to come before a game.”
