Hope Cafe

4.9 ( 148 reviews )
Checking... 11:30 AM - 8:30 PM See Hours
$10–20
4711 Hope Valley Rd #1c, Durham, NC 27707, United States
+1 919-358-4895

Hope Cafe, located at 4711 Hope Valley Rd, Durham, NC, stands out as a beacon of authentic Thai cuisine. Many customers rave about the exquisite Pad See Ew, praised for its amazing wok smokiness and substantial portions. The rich, flavorful noodles strike a perfect balance of sweetness and saltiness, making it a must-try. As Cuong Ma highlights, this dish leaves others feeling slightly overshadowed.

Vegetarians can revel in the thoughtful vegetable options, while those wishing for a taste of Thailand will appreciate the Khao Soi, enhanced by mustard greens for an authentic touch. Steve W notes the simplicity of the menu, executed flawlessly, with standout dishes like the Mango Sticky Rice made from premium Thai mangoes.

The warm atmosphere, coupled with the genuine hospitality from owner Paul, creates a familial dining experience. Many, including Katherine Rodriguez, have found their tastebuds transported back to Thailand, enjoying dishes that evoke cherished memories. Not only is the food commendable, but the supporting art reflects a commitment to local culture.

With rave reviews and a menu that tantalizes, Hope Cafe is undeniably a gem for Thai food lovers in the area. Don't miss the chance to savor the culinary delights that await you!

Amenities and More

  • Accessibility
    • Has wheelchair accessible entrance
    • Has wheelchair accessible parking lot
  • From the business
    • Identifies as Asian-owned
  • Service options
    • Offers curbside pickup
    • Offers delivery
    • Onsite services available
    • Offers takeout
    • Serves dine-in
  • Popular for
    • Popular for lunch
    • Popular for dinner
    • Good for solo dining
  • Offerings
    • Serves comfort food
    • Serves healthy options
    • Quick bite
    • Serves vegan dishes
    • Serves vegetarian dishes
  • Dining options
    • Serves lunch
    • Serves dinner
    • Has catering
    • Has counter service
    • Serves dessert
    • Has seating
  • Amenities
    • Has restroom
  • Atmosphere
    • Casual
    • Cozy
  • Crowd
    • Family-friendly
    • LGBTQ+ friendly
    • Transgender safespace
  • Planning
    • Accepts reservations
  • Payments
    • Accepts credit cards
    • Accepts debit cards
    • Accepts NFC mobile payments
    • Credit cards
  • Children
    • Good for kids
    • Has kids' menu
  • Parking
    • Free parking lot
    • Free street parking
    • On-site parking
    • Usually plenty of parking
  • Pets
    • Dogs allowed outside

Reviews For Hope Cafe

Steve W
Jun 30,2025
The food was perfect. The portions are a good size. The vegetable option is great for Vegetarians. I am not sure if they do Vegan, so I cannot speak to the preparation. For Thai food and noodles it is one of the best. I believe we were served by the owner. He informed us that his wife made the coconut ice cream herself. The Mango Sticky rice used Thai Mangoes and that does matter. It's a very simple menu and done well. The coconut ice cream includes 2 scoops for sharing. It's a great option for Thai.
Cuong Ma
Jun 15,2025
I've been here multiple times and this place has the best pad see ew in town. Amazing wok smokiness fill the noodles with a little sweet and saltiness from the sauce. Huge portions. Absolutely recommend coming here for the pad see ew. The pad kee mao I found a little lacking in comparison but still good. The yen ta fo was fun but really compared to the pad see ew again it's just not a fair fight. Absolutely come here and get the pad see ew. Edit: I tried the Khao Soi, and wow absolutely amazing! Ask for the mustard greens, tastes super authentic, just like in Thailand.
Cindy Chan
Jun 14,2025
The food is soooooo good!!!! In NYC this would be at my top choices. The Thai Beef Salad is full of rich flavors. Savory, Tart, and a bit spicy. It is a small dish that does not come with noodles but ask for a side of rice noodles and it is perfection! If it's on its own it can be overwhelming and salty (but that is also how the dish is supposed to be). My friend got the Drunken Noodles with Chicken and she loved it! Will definitely come back again. The whole staff is really nice and friendly. Paul is really like the sweet Uncle who gets really happy to see people enjoying their food. The Art on the walls are beautiful and for Sale. He supports a local artist. Highly recommend trying them out.
Katherine Rodriguez
May 9,2025
I’m beyond happy to have this restaurant in the neighborhood. My husband and I lived for a few years in Thailand and just recently came back thinking how much we would miss the food and mostly the people. This dishes brought back many memories and I attest that the flavors are authentic and incredibly delicious. Mr. Paul the owner came to talk to us which made the dining experience was absolutely complete.
WL Wang
May 3,2025
Glad we found this amazing Thai restaurant while visiting the Chapel Hill area. Authentic Thai - rich, flavorful and made with care. Paul, the owner is genuinely warm and kind, made us feel welcome. We had Pad See Ew and Chicken Curry Soup, both amazing. Highly recommend!
A Thana
Apr 17,2025
This restaurant made really good and delicious Thai food. I ordered the Vermicelli stir fried noodle with shrimps today. It was super tasty and perfectly made. I feel like it is underrated and I need to come back for sure.
Gemini Pattarakorntarda
Apr 5,2025
I really love Pad See Eew at Hope cafe. Also the coconut ice cream is very delicious. Will definitely come back. So happy to stop by and eat here. Second time at Hope Cafe 5 Stars – A Hidden Gem in Durham! Hope Cafe in Durham is one of those special places you can’t stop thinking about after your first visit. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff are genuinely friendly and welcoming. But what really blew me away was the Yen-Ta-Four—the pink noodle soup. It’s hard to find this dish done right outside of Thailand, but Hope Cafe absolutely nails it. The broth is rich, slightly sweet, tangy, and uniquely savory from the fermented bean paste. Every bite is packed with flavor! The toppings were fresh and generous—crispy tofu, tender squid, fish balls, and crunchy veggies—served over perfectly chewy noodles. It’s comforting, bold, and authentic. If you’re in Durham and looking for something beyond the usual Thai fare, try the Yen-Ta-Four. It’s a rare find and absolutely delicious. Hope Cafe has definitely earned a spot on my regular rotation!
PNJIRA HEMJAN
Mar 23,2025
The Pink Noodle is amazing! It’s so hard to find Thai food that really tastes like Bangkok street food, but this place got it just right. We also had the Pad See Ew, and it was just as good. The owner was super friendly too! Definitely worth a try—especially the coconut ice cream. We cleaned our plates (as you can see in the photos) and will for sure be coming back!

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