Mateo Bar de Tapas
Phone: (919) 530-8700
Mateo has had a Spanish heart with a Southern soul in downtown Durham since 2012. The first solo venture from James Beard semi-finalist Chef Matthew Kelly of Vin Rouge, Mothers & Son’s, Nanas and the beloved Saint James Seafood (RIP), is housed in the old Book Exchange building in the heart of downtown Durham. The menu blends the flavors of Spain with beloved ingredients and dishes of the South, with one of the largest sherry collections in the country and a large Spanish wine collection. Alton Brown called it the best tapas bar in the country, posting a pic to social media before taking the stage at DPAC.
Cuisines
- Casual Dining
- Celebrated Cuisine
- Farm To Fork Restaurants
- International
- Southern/Cajun/Creole
Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Friday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM
Sunday: Closed
Map
Google Rating
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One of the best experiences in Durham! Amazing service and atmosphere. Lowkey and very delicious. Mateo’s has an eclectic menu but an amazing chef that’ll put you into a food coma off tapas. Great date spot!
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Great laidback atmosphere with the menu being mostly small plates. There are a couple larger plates for 3+ people to share as well. Can be a little loud due to high ceilings but over all a great place to share a meal with friends or a date.
Flavors are all well balanced and the service was great! -
Great experience. Can't go wrong with any of the tapas, but a few of my favorites were the ribs, the farmers cheese, seafood paella, dates, and all the drinks. The atmosphere and service was great, which added to the experience. Would highly recommend and would visit again.
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Finding this place was a happy little accident! We so enjoyed the food and atmosphere. It was our first time eating at a Spanish style tapas restaurant. We found seats at the bar and the bartender was happy to recommend her favorite dishes. We took her recommendations and everything was delicious and the order of the plates coming from the kitchen was perfect. (The stuffed dates, beet salad, and deviled eggs were our favorites!). This restaurant is withim walking distance to the DPAC. They offered fast and friendly service. We will be back!
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Absolutely delicious!!!! Perfect way to start a movie date night. The food is delicious but you won't feel so full that you are uncomfortable. Friendly staff with good drinks as well. Highly recommend!
Nearby Businesses
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