Went to La Mala tonight for a much needed drink after a long week at work. La Mala is a very cool, laid back spot with tons of tables and a long bar with even more tables next to it. There is a gorgeous painting of a woman on the main wall that just screams take a picture in front of me and post! I still had some work to do, so I sat in a corner next to the restrooms so I could focus on work and chill and people watch.
The waitress helped me out right way and I decided on the asado tacos and a Paloma. The Paloma came out first and it was super sweet, wayyy too sweet for me. However, the waitress was so nice about it and I was able to change it out for an Agua Fresca. This was so delicious! It was mezcal based, so it was a little smoky and had a nice kick to it! It went down way to easily, so I slowed down about half way. It paired well with my asado tacos that were just enough. Their portions are not too overwhelming and the tacos were very yummy. I love that they came with a large lime and this delicious green salsa. Wow!
Overall I would definitely come back! Minus one star for the Paloma, but I am so glad that the waitress was so nice about replacing it. Love that they are local!
John
Jan 23, 2023
4
Awesome. We loved the guac, and the quesadilla were absolutely fantastic - best in Durham honestly. Not sure if we'd get the chips with the hot dog chunks in it again. Server was super friendly. There is a DJ blasting music so it's definitely a bit loud and hard to have a conversation, but good for a fun meal! 4.5
Boris Tezak
Jan 15, 2023
5
A much needed addition to the downtown Durham scene! In our opinion this place is exactly what it intended to be. A fun, sexy vibe with loud latin music. We sat at the bar and quickly noted how well staffed and attentive the service was. We ordered 2 drinks (la mala & el chavo). The drinks had a cool presentation, both were Mezcal based and had a really nice balance between the smoke and sweet. This place offers small plates, we ordered the guac, a ceviche, and 2 plates of tacos (al pastor, carne asada)- this was the perfect amount of food for the two of us and the price was reasonable. The tacos were delicious and kept the authenticity of the traditional street tacos that we love; the carne asada was super well seasoned and maybe one of the best carne asada tacos I've had in the area. The only thing that would make this place better is if it turned into a latin dance club late night. We did not stay late, so who is to say it doesn't?;) We will certainly be back to find out!
Dame Wilkerson
Jan 13, 2023
5
PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO WHAT IM ABOUT TO SAY…..
Please don’t let social media persuade you to any other Mexican restaurant downtown!!! This by FAR, is the only way !!!!! The drinks and food is not even in comparison to anywhere else around!!! The vibe is great!! 10/10
Just GOOOO &
Thank me later ✌🏾
Juan Zarazua
Jan 7, 2023
5
Absolutely great! The food is awesome. Definitely a beautiful touch of our modern Mexican cuisine. My family and I will definitely go back. The appetizers were amazing and so were the cocktails.
Yolanda Brown
Jan 3, 2023
5
This was a great experience. The tacos were delicious and the cocktails were very well made. I’ll return again 👍🏾
Patrick Slaughter
Dec 29, 2022
3
The sour bunny drink was ok, but too much ice. The la mala was the best drink for me. Mexican fries were salty. It was missing like jalapenos. Mama's ceviche was good. Its cook. But when I think of Mexican food, this place isn't it. The food wasn't the best drink and was decent and not worth the price. One more thing the tall tables with the bar seat on one side and the chairs on the other the chairs are not friendly to big people felt like I was getting squeezed and had to request to be moved to 4 full seating. The bathroom was nice.
A. Francis
Dec 18, 2022
5
This is a fun & trendy place. The staff was friendly & very attentive. Although I would to have liked more food variety, it's still a good spot for tacos
Rebecca Fensholt
Dec 11, 2022
5
Wonderful spot for drinks and snacks! Cozy atmosphere with kind and attentive staff. The menu was great! Very thoughtfully crafted cocktail menu and the food was better than I could possibly put into words. This spot is a very welcome addition to the downtown scene.
Jim Foster
Dec 10, 2022
5
What a fantastic cocktail lounge!! Amazing food and drinks in a swanky establishment with friendly, knowledgeable service. Great scene, cozy books for dates. Well with checking out!! Their mezcal based El Chavo de Ocha is particularly delicious, smokey with a good touch of tamarind. I'll definitely be visiting often.
Erin Karcher
Dec 8, 2022
5
Came for dinner with a friend on Thursday night. Usually I have low expectations for a restaurant's opening week, however, our experience here far exceeded expectations. Decor was perfect, food was incredible- we especially loved the ceviche. Drinks were delicious, and our service was exceptional- Yosa was the best. La Mala is in the perfect location for just about anything you want- a quick light bite before a show, drinks and dessert (the churros were amazing), or a leisurely dinner. We'll definitely come back! What a wonderful addition to the downtown Durham scene!
Ted Eby
Dec 8, 2022
5
Great drinks and tacos. Restaurant has a great vibe. Prices are a little high, but still overall great.
