Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    University Club

    4.4 (20 reviews)
    PriceyAmerican

    University Club Photos

    Business Info

    UNIVERSITY CLUB ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Classy
    Good for groups

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - University Club

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Fruit Tart
    Gregory H.

    It's always a treat to be able to go out with my accounting department to tour a place then head out to lunch. It's an even better treat when I'm a guest of a "member" and the lunch venue is the University Club on the 17th (top) floor of the University Tower. First, I want to say, I'm slightly irritated by the fact that the place is so exclusive because I think they could do a much better volume of business by opening up their doors to "non-members." So, the only way to get in the door is to know somebody who's a member and be their guest. Okay, my griping is over. We were greeted with a pleasant formality, making sure our host's name was on the "list" and then everything turned strictly to pleasantries and introductions to our server while we were being seated. The buffet was extraordinarily displayed. Today's soup was not quite a gumbo (it was missing the Okra) but it was close - a chicken and sausage tomato based temptation that when given into, satisfies the taste buds with just the right amount of spice, the right amount of sausage, oh heck it was pretty darn good! Next on the buffet was rolls, which I skipped due to the server already giving us each a roll at our places. Next was steamed vegetables - carrots and broccoli - very nice color and very tasty. The rice pilaf was perfect, the chicken florentine was very nicely done with spinach leaves and feta cheese and the blacked catfish in cream sauce was a heck of a lot better tasting than the bullheads I used to go fishing for 20+ years ago. Desserts - choices - chocolate bomb cake? chocolate Kahlua cake? carrot cake? Key Lime pie? Sorbet, homemade ice cream or finally - the fruit tart. That's right, I had the fruit tart - very fruity, not really very tart, but still - yum!!! I whipped out my phone and had to take a couple pics of the desserts on the table. The club manager came by while I was taking the pics and said "Wow - you're taking pictures of the food, we must be doing something right!" It's not quite "as good as it gets," but at the end of the day, it's pretty darn good. A solid 4 1/2 starts here. BTW, if you work at the University Tower building, they will deliver lunch to you and cater within the building. However, if you want outdoor seating, you may have to try to find some roof access, and that might be frowned upon.

    Xin W.

    Such a great dining experience! Every dish was served at the right time and the taste was wonderful! I also loved the jazz band a lot

    The happy couple's grand entrance!
    Kate M.

    We have photographed two weddings here, a bit different from each other, but very excellently executed both times. Jessica & her team manage setup, the overall look of an event, and the flow of guest activity without a hitch. Having separate spaces for each section of a wedding reception--cocktails at the bar, the dining room for dinner, a dance floor--creates an upscale event feel and flow. The food has always been excellent, staff helpful and courteous. Plus, nowhere else in Durham can beat those views! Highly recommend!

    Catherine R.

    The elevator doors open at the 17th floor of one of the most well-known, well-scoffed, beautiful buildings in North Carolina. Smooth out any wrinkles in your blouse--this is the kind of place people will notice if anything is amiss. Dark wood paneling greets you from foot to ceiling. The maitre'd greets you with kind eyes and a nice tie. Isn't he handsome? The barkeep delivers two perfect negronis. The walls are the same wood and tall windows yieldin panoramic views of the green town--it's been a hot summer, the leaves will turn soon. I guess the crowd's a little stuffy. But they're quiet, and there's so much else to enjoy.

    The University Club

    See all

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    My club executive board meets here monthly before lunch, and then we order off the menu. I enjoy the food each time, and the view is nice.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Went to a holiday party here. Food was just ok. Service was lacking and the decor is tired.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    16 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Chris K.
    124
    1126
    2388

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Xin W.
    0
    6
    26

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kate M.
    10
    12
    143

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 years ago

    Helpful 9
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Cheryl D.
    5
    62
    187

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tom M.
    58
    18
    0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Zan V.
    0
    40
    1

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Ask the Community - University Club

    You might also consider

    Lakewood Social

    Lakewood Social

    4.4
    (52 reviews)
    2.2 mi
    $$

    I have been to the spot several time in various guises. It's a great location. This iteration seems…read morelike the best for the area: it's very family friendly, with tons of games and playground area for the younger set. I came at 5:45 on a Monday (because no other places are open on Mondays!), and was one of maybe four me. In the place. The rest were moms with one or two (or more!) kids, some waiting for dad to join them after work. I ate in a covered patio that in a few months will be too hot to endure. But tonight, mid-March, it's a sunny delight. I ordered a smashburger and a Kingstown Negroni. Drae stirred my drink and out the order in, and it arrived with fries just minutes later. Juicy double patty burger, caramelized onions, cheese, salt & pepper fries. Fresh and very tasty. WiFi was fast, music was smooth but subdued. (Think Sade and Barry White dueling. Wish I wasn't alone!) Kids were everywhere, but very well-behaved and in explore mode, which I find adorable! There are outside areas covered in open or tarps, clear flexi-glass walled off areas, and true "indoor" places you can watch TV in. Everything from Top Gear to REN & Stimpy. A great way to spend an early dinner/very late lunch.

    Very intrigued by the unique menu so decided to stop by for dinner on Friday late afternoon…read more Very large open area both inside and outside. Casual with various seating options booths, chairs, benches. Very kid friendly, there were many young children running around inside and outside. My only negative would be the amount of flies around the food and landing on your food while you're eating. Service was great, fast and friendly. I appreciated the ordering system. You could order from the bar or order from the unique QR CODE attached to each table. You could close out from your phone or the bar. Staff brings out your drink and food order according to your unique QR code id. Food was amazing! Can't wait to come back and try something different. I had the smash burger with regular fries and the peach ginger non alcoholic drink (very yummy).

    Photos
    Seating area
    Seating area
    Kimchi grilled cheese!
    Kimchi grilled cheese!
    Lakewood Social

    See all

    Alley Twenty Six

    Alley Twenty Six

    4.3
    (433 reviews)
    3.7 mi
    $$

    We had an extremely memorable experience at Alley Twenty Six, in large part to our amazing server,…read moreAnthony! We made a reservation for a Saturday night dinner and he made sure we were well taken care of all night. We started the night with their James Bears award winning cocktails, and every drink we ordered was a hit! Spiced strawberry mule, Sunset Sipper, and the table favorite: Earl Please. The latter two drinks were mocktails and they were still standouts! As for the food, the Alley burger was perfectly cooked: juicy patty paired with truffle cheese and simple toppings that really highlighted the burger itself. And shoestring fries are always a good choice with a delicious burger. Ricotta gnocchi was also very good. As our server Anthony said, let's get this burger nominated!

    We hav been here twice and gotten a burger each time. Foie burger is the way to go. Hands down one…read moreof the best burgers I've had. The "wings" were absolutely killer with the perfect sweet and spicy flavor and that dipping sauce with them is out of this world. I would get the burrata again too, the only miss was the gnocchi and I say that but I ate every bite... so it's old a miss compared to everything else. Service was top notch and the drinks are delicious. I want to go get a drink at the funky little ally window one night. Go here! Get the burger! You will not regret it

    Photos
    Pimento cheese & pepper jelly
    Pimento cheese & pepper jelly
    Pimento cheese on baguette
    Pimento cheese on baguette
    House-made tonic soda mocktail

    See all

    House-made tonic soda mocktail
    Aaktun Coffee & Bar

    Aaktun Coffee & Bar

    4.4
    (174 reviews)
    3.7 mi
    $$

    amazing! I love this location, food is always good and coffee is always great! the service is…read moreamazing too!

    If I could give this place 100 stars, I would! From the…read moreoutside, you would never guess what awaits inside. It looks like a small neighborhood spot, but the moment you walk through the doors, you're immediately welcomed by a charming bakery counter filled with fresh pastries, coffee, and sandwiches. Then, as you make your way to the restaurant in the back, the entire experience transforms into something truly special. The ambiance is absolutely stunning--warm, inviting, and thoughtfully designed. I honestly spent half the meal just taking it all in because every detail was beautiful. Now, let's talk about the food... phenomenal doesn't even begin to describe it. Everything was incredibly fresh, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. Our brunch came out surprisingly fast without sacrificing quality, and every bite was bursting with flavor. The service was equally impressive. Everyone was welcoming, attentive, and genuinely seemed to enjoy making sure guests had a great experience. You could tell there was pride in both the food and the hospitality. If you're anywhere near Durham, this restaurant is an absolute must-visit. Whether you're stopping in for coffee and a pastry, grabbing a sandwich, or sitting down for brunch, you won't be disappointed. I'll definitely be back, and this has quickly become one of my favorite restaurants in the area. Five stars isn't enough--this place deserves 100.

    Photos
    Iced autumn blaze latte with cold foam - lifewithhanny
    Iced autumn blaze latte with cold foam - lifewithhanny
    Iced dulce de leche latte with cold foam - lifewithhanny
    Iced dulce de leche latte with cold foam - lifewithhanny
    Jerk chicken

    See all

    Jerk chicken
    The Federal

    The Federal

    3.9
    (452 reviews)
    3.4 mi
    $$

    Pretty meh bar food. Maybe I didn't order the right thing, but when I asked which side I should get…read morewith my chicken sandwich, it was highly recommended that I order their twice-fried Fed Fries over their other fried options, as they are made from scratch, rather than being shipped in frozen in bags. I had high hopes, but there is reason why fries made from fresh potatoes aren't widely offered at restaurants and it's mostly bc they have so much water content and easily come out soggy. And these came out exactly that way - soggy and limp. The chicken sandwich I ordered was a special, limited time offering, and it was also ok. It was advertised as having a slaw on top and that's a strong word for what was served. When I think slaw, I think robust, crunchy veggies with some vinegar bite and while I got a bit of that, it wasn't enough to balance out the fried, savoriness of the breaded chicken patty and bbq sauce. Service was friendly, but I wouldn't say they went above and beyond. I was eating alone at the bar, and I'm usually accustomed to more touch points than I got here, but it wasn't bad. I they checked in more, I may have felt more comfortable bringing up my dissatisfaction with the fries. Beer selection (on tap) was only ok. Definitely a personal preference but I wouldn't say say they had a wide variety of beer styles to select from - at least while I was there. Giving two stars bc I won't come back here on purpose - especially by myself.

    Yum! My boyfriend and I split some dishes at the Federal and thoroughly enjoyed our experience. We…read morechose the classic cheeseburger with Swiss cheese and sauce on the side, a cubano, and the fried artichoke salad. Both the cheeseburger and cubano came with hefty servings of French fries fresh out of the fryer. Despite being a little salt heavy, they were flavorful and complimented the sandwiches well. The cubano and burger were both 3/5 for me but I enjoyed both. I'm not a huge meat fan... My boyfriend said they were excellent though! The fried artichoke salad is where I feel like I found my peace. The olives, tomatoes, salad dressing, and all other salad components were awesome. It tasted fresh and the ingredients complimented each other. The fried artichokes were a nice crunch too! I would be back to the Federal for the hot food and good vibes. Service was excellent here as well.

    Photos
    The Federal
    The Federal
    Cuban Sandwich

    See all

    Cuban Sandwich
    Eastcut Sandwich Bar - Durham

    Eastcut Sandwich Bar - Durham

    4.4
    (387 reviews)
    0.8 mi
    $$

    EASTCUT completely lived up to the hype. I ordered the Clifford's Cutlet (no tomato), the McSteak,…read moreand three chocolate chunk sea salt cookies--and every single thing was incredible. The sandwiches were packed with flavor, perfectly cooked, and the bread was soft with just the right texture. The Clifford's Cutlet was crispy and delicious, while the McSteak was rich, cheesy, and seriously satisfying. And those chocolate chunk sea salt cookies? Absolutely phenomenal. Soft, gooey, and the perfect sweet ending to the meal. Everything arrived fresh, and I was already thinking about what I want to order next before I finished eating. If you're debating whether to try EASTCUT, do it. This was easily a 10/10 meal, and I'll definitely be ordering again.

    Yum! After touring Duke my daughter and I were hungry. We…read morethought about eating in their amazing dining hall, but i suggested we go elsewhere since she'd be eating there all week for a tennis camp. Yelp told me this delicious sandwich shop was just 5 minutes away, which seemed like the perfect option. It was a hot summer day and I couldn't believe how many people were sitting outside in the heat. We got the last table in the air conditioned inside, which made me happy. We placed our orders at the counter: - The Jane for me - Pine Street Pimento for my daughter and a bag of chips (salt & vinegar for me) for both! We did the smaller size sandwiches which were still quite large, but we were quite hungry and finished them off. They were so good that I even thought about coming back for lunch the next day, but knew there were plenty of delicious restaurants in the area to try. However, i'll come again when back in the area!

    Photos
    Eastcut Sandwich Bar - Durham
    Housemade Mozz Sticks
    Housemade Mozz Sticks
    Taylor ham egg and cheese - lifewithhanny

    See all

    Taylor ham egg and cheese - lifewithhanny

    University Club - tradamerican - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...