La Mala Mexican Inspired Cocktails

amazing brunch at La Mala this Friday and great service from Yohana and Tomas. Definitely recommend and definitely will be back. also super clean bathrooms

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Drinks were amazing.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

La Mala was delicious all around!! The food was fresh and flavorful, myself and both of my partners loved it. The Mexican street fruita was tart, sweet, spicy, and served in a half-pineapple, very fun. My main, the mole chilaquiles, was wonderful and very pretty (pictured). My only complaint is that I ordered iced coffee (off-menu) and they charged $10 for it (and added dairy without saying, and I’m lactose intolerant). So, stick to the menu and I’m sure you won’t be disappointed! I’ll definitely be back.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Amazing food, terrific service and attention to detail. Will definitely come back again.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

La Mala is one of my favorite local spots for tacos and drinks. Never disappointed. Generally good vibes here. The staff are also great there.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Sidney was our server and she did a phenomenal job. She was attentive, friendly, and made sure we had everything we needed. The drinks, especially the spicy watermelon margarita was delicious and so was the food! Will definitely return and will ask for Sidney.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

The food is so delicious. We had the shrimp tacos. The food is very authentic. In addition to the food, the staff were very friendly.
Definitely coming back again!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great Mexican bar! Stopped after the Durham Art Festival for drinks and appetizers between lunch and dinner and was not disappointed. The vibe was modern Mexican in all the right ways. Drinks were creative and delicious. Very good service and appetizers were also good. I love how downtown Durham has evolved. Looking forward to returning.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Mexican Fries, Guacamole Fresco, Mexicans in a Blanket Aka Salchitatacos

Great food in a gorgeous atmosphere.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Fun place for cocktails and guac before the Duke univ 100 anniversary starring Ed Sheeran!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Fun little place with great cocktails.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Guacamole Fresco

Stepping into LA Mala, one is immediately enveloped by an atmosphere that feels both intimate and vibrant. The dim lighting, meticulously placed throughout the space, creates an ambiance that is undeniably inviting, setting the perfect tone for a refined yet relaxed dining experience. A live DJ curates a thoughtful playlist, seamlessly enhancing the mood without overpowering the conversation.

When it comes to the menu, LA Mala does not disappoint. The food, while approachable, demonstrates an attention to detail that speaks volumes. The guacamole, for instance, stands out not just for its taste but for its simplicity—a refreshing departure from the over-complicated versions seen elsewhere. Each bite is fresh, balanced, and indicative of a kitchen that understands restraint and quality.

The drinks deserve a special mention. Crafted with premium ingredients, they are as visually stunning as they are flavorful. Every cocktail is a showcase of balance and creativity, further elevating the dining experience.

Presentation across the board is impressive. Each dish is artfully constructed, with clear attention paid to detail. It’s evident that care is taken not only in the preparation of the food but also in the way it is presented, enhancing the overall dining journey.

In sum, LA Mala manages to strike a harmonious balance between ambiance, taste, and service. It’s a destination where guests can expect a well-rounded, memorable experience, making it a standout in a competitive dining scene.

Atmosphere: 4

Food: 4

Service: 4

The food was phenomenal and the service was also great!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Great spot for flavorful food and amazing cocktails. The Mexican fries are delicious. We had several cocktails and samples of tequilla. They also recycle their Clase Azul tequila bottles into interesting cups for one of their drinks. 10/10 experince while there.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Mexican Fries

The food is FANTASIC - we ate outside and enjoyed the weather.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5