Looked forward to visiting this restaurant but generally disappointed after this experience.
The atmosphere was upbeat and lively,kind of noisy though. So not the place to go for a quiet meal. The decor bright ,clean with nice lighting, and actually some artwork for sale on the walls.
Staff members were friendly and hospitable. However the service was really lacking.
We ordered 3 appetizers. One came out. The 2nd came out 15 mins later. After 2 reminders the third one came after we had halfway completed our entrees. We refused it at that point. In addition our entrées did not come out together either.
The quality of food was so-so. I found that it wasn't evenly seasoned. A chicken entrée was served with 4 whole Bay leaves on the plate, a no no. You don't eat Bay leaves. They should not have been on the plate.
I dont want to be picky,but I do think that this is important. Our server had long loose hair that he was continually pulling back with his hands and then was serving drinks and meals. Really ,when serving food your hair should be covered, pinned up or put in a ponytail so that you're not constantly touching your hair.
We were asked how our experience was. My response "up and down" although offered a coupon to use " when you return" I would not visit this restaurant again.
J FAM
Oct 17, 2023
5
Tried this place for the first time this past weekend and it was an absolutely amazing experience! The hostess was very sweet and welcoming from the moment we walked in the door. Seating was full so we opted to sit at the bar and the full service at the bar was fast and efficient. The food was super flavorful and the cocktails were also great! Taking suggestions from the bar tender we made a few great choices and we were not disappointed! I’ve been to a number of restaurants in the downtown area and this place is definitely top 3! Can’t wait to go back!
Carol Matthews
Sep 30, 2023
5
A great, quaint restaurant! The food was more than I expected and the portion was perfect! Cocktails were beautiful and well made. Our server could have checked on us a bit sooner to take our drink order and put in apps, but it wasn't an unreasonable wait. I would definitely recommend a visit!
Carla Love
Sep 20, 2023
5
This place is a hidden gem. The atmosphere and decor takes you back to old Cuba. Fun and delicious cocktails based on Cuban historical figures and famous places. They have a large selection of rum cocktails as well. Small plates and entrees with Cuban, Spanish and American influences. We had the Fish with Peruvian green sauce and the Yucca gnocchi and shrimp both were delicious and just the right amount. We love the pork fritters and the fried plantains! It never disappoints.
J Tramo
Jul 25, 2023
5
Hands down our favorite restaurant in Durham. Food is incredible, fresh, and unique. Cocktails on point, service is fantastic. We have been for a few limited menu events including Valentine’s Day - never disappoints!
Daniel Debrecht
Jun 16, 2023
3
The restaurant itself has a great feel, the individuals that were working there were polite and informative. The food was very expensive for what it was. The 20% charge for a living wage adjustment was not expected. It does not make sense to serve overpriced food, recommended tipping, and tack on a 20% charge.
Leyna Bernstein
Apr 16, 2023
5
Fantastic experience here for a one night stay in Durham. The cocktail menu has great variety and we loved our drinks (mescal margarita and their take on a Manhattan.)
We ordered off the tapas menu, and particularly enjoyed the black bean tacos (tortillas made in house, and you can taste the difference) and the cheese plate.
Our waiter, Doug, was superb. So knowledgeable, attentive, and friendly. He made it a great night!
Jules
Mar 19, 2023
5
Absolute Perfection! 🌟⭐️🌟⭐️🌟
Had a wonderful experience at Copa. Our server was Doug, he was attentive and extremely knowledgeable about everything on the menu. My partner ordered the La Diosa Negra drink and I took the tiniest sip and it was mind blowing! (Followed by a few more amazed small sips) I’ve actually never had such an intricately perfected drink in my life. We complimented the drink to Doug and later, Elizabeth came to chat with us. She is the creator of the drink/part owner of Copa and was one of the most sincere, kind, and passionate people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. She was kind enough to share a little more info about how the drink is concocted, and did so with the most pleasant and enthusiastic energy. It made me realize that most people really aren’t living life quite like we should. She embodied an exuberant joy that was simply infectious.
Also, kudos to the restaurant for adding the “living wage” fee or tip to the bill. As someone who has previously worked in food service, I understand the measly $2ish hourly wage only (barely) covers the taxes owed on the server’s income. Our party felt like the server deserved more like 40% and tipped accordingly.
Food = delicious
Drinks = mind blowing
Service = unprecedented
Thank you to Doug and Elizabeth for a truly remarkable experience.
