We are a bar that brings you Mexican inspired cocktails using tequila, mezcal, and only using fresh fruit for our mixes. We also provide an extensive collection of high quality tequilas.
We have a small menu of food based on popular Mexican street dishes. These can be considered tapas/small bites.
Whether you’re here for some bites or simply to unwind with a fresh cocktail, our bar offers a serene escape back to Mexico.
Shamaine Wynn
La Mala was a great choice. The food flavor and freshness really stood out — everything tasted intentional and well-prepared. Portions were on the smaller side but surprisingly filling, which worked perfectly since we were heading to a show afterward and didn’t feel overly full or uncomfortable. Service was good overall and the experience felt smooth. I’d definitely go back.
… moreBrianna Cain
I went to La Mala a month ago over the weekend and it was nice! It’s a smaller venue, pretty dark (like you really need the small lamp decor to see the menu), but clean, cute and chic/modern. I sat at the bar and the customer service was great!
The food was pretty ok. I was recommended the Mexican fries and they were fine. A good portion but not really what I expected. Perfect if you’re about to drink on the strip later in the evening. Also had 2 drinks – spicy watermelon and a margarita. Not very strong but a little pricey in my opinion. But they were good and pretty and definitely worth a try!
A server told me they have great taco deals on Tuesday or Wednesday. Definitely would go back and try the tacos or some other dish!
… moreAdriana Delgado
A great unexpected gem. In the heart of downtown Durham is possibly the best Mexican restaurant. The guacamole was so delicious we had to order a second one. The tacos were big and hearty with a great price point. The drinks were superb and they hit hard so be careful. Order La enamorada, such a pretty drink. Overall a must go.
… moreKelsie Bartolomeo
This place is great it’s our second time coming here the drinks are so fun the food is amazing we love the Mexican fries are one of our favorites! Within 20 mins of being here tonight we had two managers stop by the table to make sure we were enjoying everything! Our server Andrea was so sweet and attentive! The service was phenomenal the atmosphere is definitely a vibe! You won’t regret coming here for a meal and some drinks! The free shots were a nice touch too!
… moreMax Gore
Max with Offline – All I can say is… WOW.
As one of the first 1,000 members of Offline Raleigh, I had the chance to attend a private try-before-they-open event at Lamala (from the amazing folks behind La Santa), and let me tell you—it did not disappoint!
The service? Impeccable.
The food? I gotta say it… so effin’ good!
The drinks? Whew! Get the signature “La Mala” — trust me, it’ll get the job done with just one.
Here’s what we tried:
• Quesobirria Tacos – You get three with consomé, and the FLAVOR was hitting.
• Mexican Fries – Absolutely incredible. Honestly, they could be a full meal by themselves.
• Mexican Pizza – My friend raved about it, especially the sauce that took it to another level.
• Carne Tacos – Packed with flavor, tender, and juicy.
The ambiance is perfect — super cute with both indoor and outdoor seating. The food came out fast, and our server Cindy was fantastic — quick, personable, and on top of everything.
Long story short: Lamala is going to be a HIT in Raleigh. I’m already planning my next visit. If you’re looking for great vibes, killer drinks, and tapas that deliver serious flavor — run, don’t walk.
… moreMatea L.
12/7/24 – I picked this place based on the reviews on the fun drinks they make. Well my husband said this is the best Mexican food he has had and he is a picky eater. I also liked my food and had corn tortillas which I normally am not the biggest fan of, but my tacos were delicious. I got the shrimp tacos and my husband got the steak. The server was sweet and helped with the selection of food and drinks. We had no wait and came around 7. The atmosphere is nice and quiet. My drink was a good amount of liquor and taste. We really enjoyed our dinner. We would love to dine again whenever we come back to visit.
… moreAnastasia Sample
This restaurant gets the lighting right for a date night! Loved the reggaeton music and attentive staff. Both a mil amores and la chingona margaritas were balanced, beautiful, and had a lot of tajin on the rim. The quesabirria and pulpo + chorizo tacos were great, and the portion was enough for two people. Was a great pre-dinner for a DPAC show.
… moreAdolfo Lambert
This restaurant its in the heart of Durham North Carolina, it has very traditional Mexican plates, the selection is great and the food was delicious.
The cocktail are great too. I personally had the Cuban sandwich or torta, it was delicious. My wife tried the corn on the cob as an appetizer, and it was amazing. We tried several items in their menu, and all the plates were delicious. The establishment has a live DJ in Friday’s night so the atmosphere was great.We definitely coming back and its definitely our favorite Mexican food restaurants in Durham.
… moreBrock Blanks
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.
… moreJL Hartman
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.
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