Emmy Squared Pizza has transformed Durham’s dining scene since opening in May 2024 at Brightleaf Square.
This Detroit-style pizza restaurant surprised everyone by becoming a burger destination that captures hearts with its award-winning Le Big Matt and innovative approach to comfort food.
The restaurant earned recognition after winning Nashville’s Battle of the Burger and being named one of “The Best New Burgers in NYC” by Gothamist.
How they won local’s hearts 💕
Emmy Squared Pizza conquered Durham locals through their famed double-stack burger, Le Big Matt, which earned national acclaim as one of the top burgers in NYC and Nashville.
The restaurant built its reputation on an unconditional love of well-made food, using only the highest quality ingredients for both their famous Detroit-style pizzas and award-winning burgers.
Their success stems from combining innovative Detroit-style pizza with exceptional burger craftsmanship, creating a unique dining experience that draws crowds consistently.
The Le Big Matt burger specifically gained a cult following among food enthusiasts, with reviewers praising its perfect blend of chuck, brisket, and short rib beef served on pretzel buns.
This recognition, combined with their approachable menu of salads, sandwiches, and shareable plates, helped Emmy Squared quickly establish itself as a must-visit destination in downtown Durham.
Food Highlights 🍔
- Le Big Matt: Double-stacked half-pound of grass-fed black angus beef with American cheese, signature sammy sauce, greens, and pickles on a toasted pretzel bun – named “Best Burger” in the US
- Le Bleu Burger: Double-stacked grass-fed beef topped with blue cheese crumbles, thick-cut bacon, caramelized onions, and sautéed mushrooms on a pretzel bun
- Chopped Cheese Burger: NYC street food classic featuring chopped grass-fed beef, American cheese, red onion, bell peppers, ketchup, and pickles
- Spicy Chicken Sandwich: Two hand-trimmed, gochujang-spiked, buttermilk-brined chicken thighs that are hand-breaded and fried, topped with pickles, radish, greens, and house-made green ranch
- BKLYN Mozz Sticks: Five large, crispy, hand-stretched mozzarella sticks served with signature house-made red sauce
Atmosphere 🎯
Emmy Squared Durham offers a chic, casual yet upscale environment in the heart of downtown Durham’s historic Brightleaf Square.
The restaurant features a nice bar area with several TVs for catching games, indoor and outdoor seating options, and a welcoming atmosphere that gets packed quickly due to its popularity.
The space combines modern comfort with the historic charm of repurposed brick warehouses that once stored bright leaf tobacco in the early 1900s.
Bottom Line ⭐
Emmy Squared Pizza delivers an exceptional dining experience that combines award-winning burgers with innovative Detroit-style pizza in Durham’s most vibrant district.
Visitors should come for the nationally recognized Le Big Matt burger, stay for the unique Detroit-style pizzas, and enjoy the energetic atmosphere that has made this spot a local favorite since opening.
Address: 905 West Main Street, Suite 25A, Durham, NC 27701
📞 (919) 941-8383
🕔 Mon-Thu: 11AM-10PM, Fri-Sat: 11AM-11PM, Sun: 11AM-9PM