Dame’s Chicken and Waffles to Open on Central Campus

A Durham culinary landmark is coming to Duke.

Beginning this fall, Dame’s Chicken and Waffles will open a new restaurant called “Dame’s Express” on Central Campus, where it will take over space at Devil’s Bistro, which formally housed The Food Factory. 

Dame’s, known as their self-described “Almost World Famous” restaurant in downtown Durham, has been recognized by foodies as a must-visit location, receiving attention from the New York Times, Southern Living magazine and more. In addition to chicken and waffles fare, Dame’s Express will serve a variety of breakfast and lunch items, including Mexican food. 

“It’s a priority for Duke Dining to look for local businesses to partner with first, before exploring national opportunities,” said Robert Coffey, director of Duke Dining Services. “Duke Dining looked long and hard for a great partner and found Dame’s Chicken and Waffles, who have great food and were already fabulously successful in downtown Durham.”

Founded by Damion "Dame" Moore and Randy Wadsworth, Dame’s Chicken and Waffles offers a southern-inspired menu based on the Harlem Renaissance, when the combination of the fried meat and breakfast food became popular. At Dame’s, customers can choose from five types of homemade waffles and add flavor with schmears, a sweet cream butter that is whipped with toppings such as caramel cashew or sweet whiskey crème. 

For more information about Dame’s Chicken and Waffles, visit their website, where a full menu can also be found.