Mala Pata and Peyote delivering new Gateway Plaza destinations
Not your average Latin American restaurant, Mala Pata has been marinating for a couple years now—and is finally slated to deliver May 14.
A menagerie of meaningful influences, the long-anticipated Gateway Plaza spot is a culmination of diverse ideas, backgrounds and influences from four veterans of the Triangle food and bev scene: Angela Salamanca and Marshall Davis of Durham Food Hall’s Ex-Voto, and Eric Montagne and Zack Gragg of Locals Seafood.
Breaking the mold of a singular restaurateur opening their own place, the star-studded foursome aims to “mesh all of our flavors together so we can tell the story of Mala Pata.” says Gragg. Adds Davis: “What makes Mala Pata unique is that it’s this collective—it’s not a single person driving it.”
From left: Executive chef and co-owner Zack Gragg, bar manager Alison Houser, co-owners Angela Salamanca, Marshall Davis and Eric Montagne. Photo by Matt Ramey
In an effort to hype up the new spot, R&D menu items and get a feel for how they work together, the team has hosted citywide pop-ups—from popular brunch stints at Centro to burrito experiences at Natural Science and activating the former Garland to-go window during Hopscotch to even events benefiting the Frankie Lemmon School.
Bridging classic Mexican cuisine and techniques with Southern flavors, the Mala Pata menu places emphasis on cultural mainstay corn, which the team plans to nixtamalize in-house for fresh masa daily. “Even though we’re using a traditional method in the nixtamalization, you’re going to see the influences of each of us as individuals kind of projected on that,” emphasizes Davis, with Gragg adding: “We think that’s going to be a key differentiator in our ability to make a name for ourselves.”
Find such standout dishes from the pop-ups that have already staked claim on the permanent menu like lechona tacos; collard green tamales; and a pozole verde featuring housemade chicken broth, Mexican hominy, cabbage, radish, cilantro and deep-fried chicken skin topping. Also expect a unique spin on family-style dining and a big emphasis on brunch.
Playing off of Salamanca’s success with her other local spots Centro and mezcaleria Gallo Pelón—the latter of which Davis also worked on, in addition to smashburger concept Patty Boy—the restaurant will open in tandem with craft cocktail bar Peyote, pouring a mix of playful and classic bevs.
“Our goal is to focus on simplicity and quality instead of smoke and mirrors,” emphasizes Davis.
Fuego Margarita | Photo by Matt RameyPina y Queso | Photo by Matt Ramey
Think frozen drinks and refined central and South American classics like a Ruby Red Paloma on tap and Black Sesame Carajillos, in addition to a curated selection of mezcal and agave spirits—plus elevated bar food and to-go options like burritos.
Both concepts will also boast their own identity through aesthetics that play into the food and drinks. Mala Pata’s modern Latin American look—complete with rustic elements and furniture/light fixtures sourced from Colombia—will be complemented by a 20-foot mural by local muralist Gabe Eng-Goetz, while Peyote will evoke a funky and loud vibe via pink walls, acid-washed yellow floors, and a concrete tile bar, perfect for pre- or post-dinner ’tails.
All together, Mala Pata and Peyote’s atmosphere, food and drinks will offer a newfound destination for Gateway Plaza patrons and those looking for a go-to spot outside DTR. “We’re really excited to be a part of this community and feel the outreach of Raleigh, expanding the food journey of customers,” boasts Gragg. “We have a great relationship with all of the businesses around here and we’re all really excited about what’s coming in the future.” @malapata.molino
Sometimes, less is more—which is precisely the case with La Taqueria: the latest from restaurateur Anthony Rapillo and celeb chef Katsuji Tanabe. Now open in the former Boxyard RTPLeroy’s space, the duo’s second concept—behind last year’s DTR Flour & Barrel—specializes in the simple yet flavor-filled authentic tacos Tanabe was raised on in Mexico City. No fussy elaborate ingredients—just really delicious, fresh tacos.
Aiming to answer the call as “the best, most authentic Mexican tacos in the Triangle,” the taqueria (aka resto specializing in tacos) features handpressed tortillas alongside four types of protein: chicken, chorizo, brisket and mushroom—plus myriad garnishes. Think homemade salsas, fresh and pickled onions, cilantro, and lime.
Choricero; photo courtesy of La Taqueria
While a sole food offering (save some specials Tanabe has in the works) may seem basic, Rapillo ensures they’re anything but. Marinated in a steaming bath of spices, broth and lard, the meats all get slow-cooked together in a “hot tub”-type pan (aka choricero). The result is tender meat and “a far more interesting broth that seasons everything cooked in it,” says Rapillo. “If you’ve ever sat facing a Chinese hot pot or Italian bollito misto, you are familiar with the effect.”
While Rapillo was initially skeptical about a taqueria, a taste of the Top Chef vet’s tacos flipped the script. “I came over for lunch, and I was like, ‘There’s no way I’m gonna make tacos in Durham,’” recalls Rapillo. “And then two hours later I was like, ‘I guess I’m going to make tacos in Durham.’”
Hydrating your hunger, La Taqueria will also serve pre-batched tequila- and mezcal-based mixed cocktails in its revamped space, complete with an expanded dining room, upgraded tables and chairs, fresh paint, and an ever-so-apt Mexican spotted owl mural by the same artist behind the Flour & Barrel masterpiece.
Put simply: It’s a fresh take on your typical taco joint—“a pure taqueria,” maintains Rapillo. “There’s no other rhyme or reason to it—just super authentic, super-fresh tacos.” It promises to be the ~taco~ the town (had to). @lataqueriaboxyard
In search of a new ~space~ to kick back, relax and enjoy vibey tunes while sipping on stellar ’tails? Enter Moon Room, a revamp of popular Smoky Hollow Neighborhood bar. The celestial go-to kicked off 2025 with “new year, new me” jazz + vinyl vibes—thus filling the much decried gap left in the wake of C. Grace. Think Wednesday jazz jam sessions and weekend jazz, with vinyl DJs spinning throughout the week. “We tried a couple of jazz nights [at Neighborhood] and the community responded really well and wanted more,” says co-owner Tyler Helikson of the change. In addition to the stellar moniker and events, Moon Room’s spirits program supplements its signature draft cocktails with full-bar “shaken and stirred” sips that promise to launch you over the moon. @m_o_o_n_r_o_o_m
Village District is becoming an 18-hour destination.
There’s little Village District doesn’t offer—from boutiques and grocers to eateries and gyms. Even a handful of restaurant bars serving cocktails—but not a full-fledged bar; no food, just drinks. Until now.
Come early summer, that vacancy will be filled with the addition of Matt Bettinger’s Mr. Henry, set to bow in the former Which Wich space. A legend in the market, Bettinger is the brains behind DTR’s now-closed highly favored C. Grace and Empress Room.
His new concept is a straight-up game changer—marking a significant shift in a 75-year-old iconic retail complex that takes a massive leap toward the district’s longtime goal of becoming an “18-hour destination.” Think everything one could possibly need from 6am till midnight—“whether it’s coffee, clothing and accessories, health and beauty, groceries, meals, or entertainment,” says Brooke Conn, general manager for Regency Centers, which owns and operates Village District.
Photo by Forrest Mason
“Village District has long struggled to create an evening environment that caters to our daytime visitors,” she adds, “and we’re proud the recent additions of Goodnights Comedy Club and Postino WineCafe have brought a positive shift.”
The dedicated cocktail bar will differentiate VD from such hot in-market competitors (think Fenton, North Hills) that have yet to open a sole bar of their own. Regency Centers has long recognized that need—but it wasn’t until Conn listened to RM’s podcast on the matter that it was really set into motion.
“The day after the podcast aired, I was listening and I picked up the phone and called [RM Publisher] Gina [Stephens] and I was like, ‘I completely agree,’” recalls Conn. A serendipitous partnership, Stephens introduced Conn to Bettinger, who also owns SideBar and Hank’s Downtown Dive in Cary and has been on the hunt for a new project for over a year.
“We definitely saw a vacancy in that market,” reiterates Bettinger of the opportunity to bring the first full-on bar to the burgeoning Downtown district. “Outside of the last few business cycles, [VD] has always had nightlife of some sort. So it felt like a logical move to be part of putting that back together.”
Conn nods to VD’s emphasis on walkability, while stressing that Regency Centers didn’t want to just bring any ole bar operator into the space, but a local one. “We think by adding a cocktail bar—especially one operated locally and through a solid concept and price point—will only encourage that synergy and flow throughout the shopping center,” she muses.
With Bettinger and his wife Catherine’s Raleigh roots and experience opening up other beloved bars in the area, they were a perfect fit. “We wanted to drive the right kind of traffic and the right kind of operator that understands what Village District is,” explains Conn.
Co-owner Jeff Kinard—who also worked with Bettinger to open SideBar and Hank’s—agrees. An NC State alum who frequents the area, he recognizes VD as a bona fide Raleigh institution whose success will in turn help the bar do well. “We’ve been excited about all the changes happening over there and the opportunity to be a part of that is great,” he says. “It’s a perfect location.”
To wit, Village District continues to expand and evolve with the upcoming Oberlin Hotel and ample new apartment buildings in the area. Its evolution has certainly shifted the outside view of others, including Bettinger.
“Had you asked me 15 years ago if I thought I’d open a bar in a shopping center, I’d say no,” he proclaims. “But after spending the last year looking for another place and seeing a lot of the same things, when we were [presented this opportunity] and I talked to my wife about it, we said definitely. It’s got history; it’s got character. And living as close as I do, it’s super exciting to be back in the neighborhood.”
Rendering by Joshua Putnam of CD Architecture, courtesy of Mr. Henry
Who Is Mr. Henry?
As for the bar itself, Mr. Henry will boast a similar vibe to Bettinger’s SideBar, with a touch of “country core” as inspired by Ralph Lauren’s NYC The Polo Bar. A straightforward shotgun bar designed by Catherine, the elevated interior will feature ample finished hardwood, brass details, mirrors, banquette seating and overall rich aesthetics—setting the stage for Bettinger’s signature high-caliber classic-cocktail focus at the hands of master mixologist Skyler Spaulding. Essentially, the perfect post-work martini, espresso- or gin-based—just pick your poison.
“There will be some creativity as well, but we’re not looking to reinvent the wheel here,” Bettinger maintains. “We really want to make sure we’re being consistent and efficient and putting our best foot forward for those drinks that are classic for a reason.”
And to capitalize on the swaths of people frequenting the center on weekend days, Mr. Henry will open by at least noon Fri.–Sun., and aims to eventually pour seven days a week. Combined with a shared patio between neighboring Winestore backdropped by new funky murals at the hands of local artist Sean Kernick, the once-underutilized pocket will undoubtedly morph into a destination.
Staying Social
In an effort to attract even more visitors to Village District—while further building on its goal of providing a fun and dynamic destination—the center is pursuing a common area entertainment permit that will allow alcohol consumption in designated indoor/outdoor confines (think like a small-scale social district). “This will give us the opportunity to promote connectivity,” says Regency Centers GM Brooke Conn, “and encourage visitors to not only choose Village District as their primary location, but also to stay longer, which will help attract and keep the best businesses.”
“I’m humbled and overjoyed to be recognized,” emphasizes Prieto. … “I’ve dedicated my life to the craft of barbecue, and through it, have found so many meaningful ways to serve my Knightdale community and tell my story. It’s incredibly rewarding to see our work here at Prime Barbecue—and the craft of barbecue—appreciated by our peers.”
After less than a year on the scene, DTR’s Figulina also earned the honor of Best New Restaurant semifinalist at the hands of former Poole’s chef de cuisine David Ellis and wife/co-owner Sam.
“We never imagined receiving this kind of recognition in our first year,” says Ellis, who learned about the nod in a barrage of texts and calls. “I’m incredibly proud of our amazing team whose passion and dedication make Figulina what it is. This honor truly means the world to us, and we’re so grateful to see our work resonate with others—not to mention the inspiring company we’re listed among.”
While Crawford has been named a JBFA semifinalist five times, the significance of the honor hasn’t waned. “When I was a young cook struggling with addiction, I never imagined in my wildest dreams this could be possible,” he says. “Today’s recognition as Outstanding Restaurateur speaks to the power of sobriety and perseverance.” Congrats to all the winners! See below for all the NC nods, and find the full 2025 list here.
“What an incredible feeling! To have brought the cuisine of our homeland to a place I’ve never been and been so quickly embraced and celebrated—it is beyond words. I’m deeply grateful for the love and support from Raleigh and the James Beard Foundation!”
