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I didn't think this place was awful, but I wouldn't go back. The portions were too small for the price and the flavors were hit or miss. The best bite was the ceviche with the plantain chips. I honestly didn't find any part of the steak entree enjoyable. The restaurant itself is cute and the service is fine, but I don't think it's worth your time
Food was divine. Such a mixture of simple flavors to make a dish complex. We started off with a few starters share and the each got an entree. The white bean and octopus was my favorite, while the rest of the table loved the Gambas à la plancha. The broccoli had a nice Asian twist. For my main I got the Little asada which had a delectable sauce and was cooked perfectly!
Nice meal with great ambiance! I really enjoyed the tapas, but my main feedback with my main was that they gave me a half chicken that was difficult to cut up into pieces...maybe I could have used my hands but it just didn't feel like the vibe of the restaurant. Also the prefixed menu seemed like a great deal, but they weren't flexible with accommodating dietary restrictions (I don't eat beef or pork and they were not able to modify the main entree to something vegetarian).
Little Bull and the tapas sharing plates don't disappoint even if you do leave lighter in the wallet if not the stomach. Our party of four leaned into the seafood options after creative if decidedly not cheap mixed drinks. Ceviche was lovely and a taste of what was to come with a forkful for each of us. The grilled octopus with cannelli beans broke through as one to remember for next time. The Gambas a La Plancha had the requisite garlic and sauce to mop up with the warm ciabbata, but the salsa piquin gave it a zing that distinguished it from the butter only focused gambas dishes so familiar from Jose Andres' of Jaleo fame among others. The tuna bulgogi (spelled with an extra l on the menu), one of the mas grandes options, was tasty and the presentation left the biggest impression. We shared 8 dishes with one being the larger plate and left full and happy. We did indulge in a Pastelito to share with its warm pastry, goat cheese, guava and whipped cream contrasting well with ripe black raspberries. Again, just a forkful or two each but that was all you needed at the end of a delightful meal. Sunday was hopping so reservations definitely the safe option.
Little bull is always a delight, and whenever I am in the area I make it a point to swing by for brunch. I absolutely love shrimp and grits and little bull does the best elevated shrimp and grits I have ever had, hands down. The ceviche was stellar and wqsserved with plantain chips and which made it even better. Their menu has many good options for those with celiac or avoiding gluten which is wonderful. The staff was attentive and was able to help me find more plates to try. My only gripe was the coffee didn't have refills and it wasn't mentioned verbally when we asked for more. Still, even with that i will be by again next time I'm in town
First time visiting Little Bull, so at the recommendation of our waiter Komal, we decided to try the tasting menu. Offering a selection of the restaurant's most popular dishes, the tasting menu allowed each of us to select 2 tapas, an entree, and a dessert--plenty of food for even the hungriest of us :) Again at Komal's recommendation, we decided to double up and each select the ceviche as our first course and I'm so glad we did! The snapper was PERFECT and it was nice to have some unsalted plantain chips to scoop all the fresh and citrusy goodness with. We also had the birria dumplings, which had the consommé poured on tableside. The short rib filling was wonderfully flavorful and paired so well with the consommé. The only thing that could have been better about them was if the broth stuck to the dumpling wrapper some more, like the traditional birria tortillas. Our other tapas choice was the octopus and WOW, this dish was amazing! The octopus was cooked perfectly and the warm beans brought some good warmth and richness. For entrees, we got the Little Asada (hangar steak) cooked perfectly at medium rare. The umami flavor lingered on the tongue and the presentation was beautiful. We also tried the Tuna Bull-gogi (I'm a sucker for a good pun) seared rare. The contrast of the warm over easy egg and the rare tuna was chef's kiss. The entire dish was full of flavors that I wouldn't have put together, but worked so incredibly well! Dessert was a singular option of churros with ice cream, which was honestly the perfect end to a delicious meal. The "churros" were cinnamon sugar donut holes, which were warm and soft, served with ice cream and fresh strawberries--the perfect mix of decadent and fresh. The ambiance in the dining room is nice, albeit a little loud. The dark and moody decor makes it a great date night spot. The patio seemed to be popular, but I was honestly too excited to be seated that I didn't look around much out there. I love that we have another delicious tapas restaurant in Durham, one that really stands out with its unique flavor combinations and beautiful presentations. Excited to come back and enjoy more of the menu!
I was able to visit Little Bull for friend's birthday brunch and I'm so happy I was able to experience this wonderful restaurant. I love the presentation (and taste) of the margaritas. I ordered the steak and French toast and I'm still dreaming about them both. The steak was perfectly cooked and had so much amazing flavor. The French toast was delectable and exactly what French toast should be. Our server anticipated all of our needs and was super friendly. We sat on the patio which was decorated beautifully, but I'll have to go back to sit inside because it was beautiful to see. I will say if you have somebody that's a picky eater. They might be a little nervous, but all the food is delicious. If you haven't been definitely add this to your list.
This place has a great vibe -- intimate and cozy with eclectic decor: chandeliers, dark walls, bold portraits, and oversized mirrors. Both the indoor and covered patio seating are comfortable and climate-controlled. Service was excellent 5+/5-- attentive and well-timed without feeling overbearing. We had a minor mishap at our table, and the staff handled it quickly and graciously. The menu changes based on local sourcing, which keeps things interesting. We ordered the scallops thinking they were cooked, but they came out raw -- surprisingly, they were beautifully done, with Tajín, peach, chilies, and fennel. The elote looked great but was a bit too salty to fully enjoy. The broccolini was the standout dish -- perfectly cooked with a flavorful chili crisp and furikake sauce. Overall, great ambience, thoughtful service, and creative food. Would definitely return.
Dinner for four on a Sunday night came to $274.13 including tax + tip, and Little Bull delivered something rare: both an outstanding dining experience and outstanding food. Too often restaurants excel at one or the other, Little Bull truly does both. One thing we've learned living in North Raleigh is that getting to Durham is often only a few minutes longer than driving to downtown Raleigh. We had an out of town guest, so we decided to make the drive. We'd eaten at Little Bull shortly after it opened (once for a weekday dinner and once for Sunday brunch) and loved it, but had never written a review. This felt like the right time. We made a reservation for four on a Sunday night. Because it was Sunday, parking in the nearby lot was free. The lot isn't labeled with the restaurant's name, but staff confirmed it was fine, and it's just a short walk across the street. From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was warm and welcoming. The staff struck the perfect balance of attentiveness and ease. Our server guided us effortlessly through the menu, navigating very different preferences, one vegan who loves heat and spice, another meat-eater who prefers milder flavors. As a group, we enjoy sharing plates, so we ordered generously... possibly too generously. One unifying theme we noticed across the menu was a creative fusion of Mexican influences with Asian, especially Thai, flavors, which made the meal both surprising and cohesive. What we ordered: * Little Asada - 8 oz hanger steak, pasilla marinade, asparagus, cauliflower purée, oyster mushroom, peanut salsa macha * Tuna Bulgogi - NC tuna, rice, kimchi, bok choy, oyster & shiitake mushrooms * Winter Cabbage * Charred Broccolini * Gambas a la Plancha - shrimp, salsa piquín, onion, ciabatta * Halal Geyüs - whole chicken, turmeric, salsa diabla, white sauce, greens, pita, house fries * Ceviche * Churro Bliss * Pastelito - puff pastry, goat cheese, guava, whipped cream, seasonal fruit, sprinkles I also had a glass of wine, and one of us ordered a Café Royale cocktail. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and deeply flavorful. Our vegan diner summed it up best: "The winter cabbage was incredible--and I don't even like cabbage that much. It was the best thing I had all night, closely followed by the broccolini. They really know what to do with vegetables." The out of town guest said everything they had was excellent. The ceviche was a bit underwhelming. I loved the Little Asada, though with so much food I ended up taking some home. The Halal Geyus chicken was tender and juicy. The house fries were excellent. For dessert, the clear winner was the Pastelito--light, balanced, and beautifully executed. I can't recall the exact seasonal fruit, but it worked perfectly, even though we were all quite full by then. Little Bull made a meaningful evening feel cared for, celebratory, and memorable. It's a place we'll return to, not just for the food, but for the experience.
I brought 2 of my friends here for dinner because I thought they would really like it and they did! We sat outside this time and although it was a cold evening, the heaters kept us warm. There were several new menu options, but ultimately I ended up ordering the dish that was my favorite the last time that I came here (gambas a la plancha) and it was just as good - if not even better - than I remembered!
Little Bull in Durham delivers a brunch experience that feels creative, soulful, and completely grounded in flavor. From the moment you walk in, the energy feels just right. The space is airy and thoughtfully designed with exposed brick, bold splashes of color, and natural light that fills the room. There's a modern southwestern feel woven throughout, but nothing feels forced. The decor is stylish without trying too hard, and the vibe is easygoing in a way that makes you want to settle in and stay a while. The staff matches the energy of the space perfectly. Friendly, informed, and genuinely excited to walk you through the menu. Service was attentive without hovering, and our server gave great insight on what to try and how dishes were prepared. We kicked things off with the Duck Chilaquiles, which came piled high with rich duck confit, crispy totopos, creamy guajillo salsa, avocado salsa, cotija, onions, crema, radish, and a perfectly cooked sunny egg on top. Every bite had layers of texture and heat, and the duck brought a savory depth that took the dish up a notch. It was bold, balanced, and satisfying. Next was the Gambas Grits, featuring grilled shrimp nestled on top of blue corn chihuahua grits with a punchy salsa piquín. The shrimp were charred just right, and the grits were smooth and earthy with a slight sweetness that played beautifully against the heat. It felt like a nod to Southern roots with a twist that kept it interesting. The Steak and Eggs kept it classic with a well-seasoned cut, cooked to order, alongside eggs done just the way we asked. Simple, clean, and familiar. It didn't try to compete with the bolder plates, but it anchored the brunch in a satisfying way. And then came the Frenchxican Toast, which was hands-down the favorite of the meal. Thick slices of brioche pan de natas, soaked in egg batter, caramelized with brûléed sugar, topped with fresh berries, and finished with a horchata glaze that was out of this world. It was decadent but not overly sweet, and had that perfect mix of crispy edges and custardy center that you dream about later. Little Bull brings something special to the Durham food scene. It's inventive but still rooted, stylish but welcoming, and most importantly, everything on the plate delivers.
Walked in on a Saturday and it was packed, so definitely make a reservation. I grabbed a seat at the bar and honestly loved the vibe--very grown and sexy ambiance. The food came out quick, fresh, and full of flavor. Everything hit exactly how it should. No complaints whatsoever, just a really solid experience. I'd absolutely come back.
Came here for Sunday brunch to celebrate me and my friends' birthdays! Had a good overall experience, but I'm not sure some dishes we got fully lived up to expectations. 3 of us shared the: - Duck Chilaquiles: Classic, I liked all the toppings. - Gambas Grits: Perfectly tender shrimp; the sauce was flavorful but way too salty for me. - Steak & Eggs: Steak was cooked well, but again one of the sauces was very salty. I actually really liked the herby green sauce though, provided great contrast to some otherwise heavy components. - Frenchxican Toast: Absolute stunner of a dish both appearance & taste-wise. The berry and horchata glazes paired with the fluffy, eggy brioche was just heavenly. Do yourself a favor and pls get this! Ambiance is amazing, so aesthetic- there's indoor & outdoor seating. Service was fast and friendly- our server, Kamal, was great. There's plenty of free street parking. It would be perfect if they ease up on the salt, but for now 8/10 would recommend!
10 days ago
This place is amazing. The brunch. The drinks. The breakfast. The decor (the mirror on the wall is especially stunning). So far, the French Toast is my absolute favorite dish and it's a very shareable size but I didn't share lol My friend and I visited for her birthday and we shared multiple plates because we couldn't pick what we wanted to had to try several things, so of course the best way to do that is to order a spread and share it! The servers are always so kind and welcoming. It's even better when they don't assume how much food is for you, especially when you're ordering to entrees to yourself to balance out the carbs and protein Needless to say, they'll be seeing me often. read more
You must visit this place. I spend a lot of time on the road and boy was this place a sight for sore eyes. The flavors were absolutely amazing. I only got to take a picture of just a couple of what we ordered. My favorites: Little Asada - so flavorful and cooked perfectly Octopus and butter beans- prepared perfectly not rubbery. Great choice DIY hand roll - really fun and inventive way although had to fight to make my own roll NC Crudo - this tuna was really fresh. I mean it didn't taste like fish. It tasted like steak. Love the flavors they added to it. ceviche - great choice with the plantains Gambas à la plancha - the OG. Highly recommended. Shrimp cooked perfect. Overall it was so amazing. Service was great also they had a fun little wine list. Pro tip: in the spring get a spot out in the patio or outside. Highly recommended. Will be back! read more
2 months ago
Mexican-American Cuisine with a Vibrant Ambiance and Flavorful Complex Cuisine You step right into a vibrant ambiance, with a beautifully decorated main dining room and a curated outdoor dining space that defines the evening as a place to bring family, friends, and professionals to enjoy lively conversations while savoring the Chef's cuisine. From the amazing service and the curated bar menu, with a bar staff that can create drinks based on your specific taste preferences, to an extraordinary selection of bold and flavorful cuisine, Little Bull is a Huge Gem in the Durham area. __ I have had the opportunity to travel the globe, 6 continents, 62 countries, and 33 US states, tasting some of the most memorable and sometimes not memorable culinary experiences. When looking at a restaurant, it is important to consider the entire dining experience, including ambiance, service, and food. Little Bull achieved excellence in all these categories. __ Tom Kha Ceviche - Snapper, coconut leche de tigre, mixed peppers, sweet potato, choclo, peanut, salsa macha, onions, and plantain chips. The snapper was incredibly fresh, which paired perfectly with the coconut leche de tigre. The broth was well balanced with richness from the peanut butter and salsa macha, sweetness from the sweet potato and choclo, and spice from the peppers and onions. The plantains were the perfect way to bring all the ingredients together. __ Gambas a La Plancha - Shrimp, salsa piquin, onion, and ciabatta. The shrimp was well-cooked and tender, delivered with the perfect char, bringing the right sweetness while pulling in the spicy and smoky flavors from the salsa piquin. The ciabatta was a nice accompaniment to this dish, helping you soak up the amazing base sauce. __ Winter Cabbage - Charred NC Cabbage, Salsa Malcojeta, Beans Mousseline, Cumin Vinaigrette, and Salsa Macha. This was a complex dish, with the creaminess of the mousseline, the charred flavor of the cabbage, the nuttiness of the salsa macha, and the earthiness of the cumin vinaigrette. While I figured this dish would have a little spice, this dish was super spicy. I would have liked the waiter to have advised us of this before we ordered the dish. __ Arepas - Cheese arepas, chicken guasacaca, cilantro and avocado aioli, avocado mousse, sour cream and pickled onions. The cheese arepas were cooked perfectly, with a nice, crisp exterior complementing the soft interior and pairing nicely with the chicken, cilantro, and avocado flavors. The pickled onions and sour cream added a nice balance to the dish. My only complaint would be that I would have liked a little more flavor. It seemed to be lacking something, making it a little bland. __ Presentation was impeccable. I love how they curated each dish and really highlighted all the ingredients. It definitely represents why they were mentioned in the Michelin guide. __ Overall, this is a must-visit restaurant for any occasion. This is the second time I visited the restaurant and have officially made it one of my go-to restaurants for different occasions. read more
I didn't think this place was awful, but I wouldn't go back. The portions were too small for the price and the flavors were hit or miss. The best bite was the ceviche with the plantain chips. I honestly didn't find any part of the steak entree enjoyable. The restaurant itself is cute and the service is fine, but I don't think it's worth your time read more
Food was divine. Such a mixture of simple flavors to make a dish complex. We started off with a few starters share and the each got an entree. The white bean and octopus was my favorite, while the rest of the table loved the Gambas à la plancha. The broccoli had a nice Asian twist. For my main I got the Little asada which had a delectable sauce and was cooked perfectly! read more
Nice meal with great ambiance! I really enjoyed the tapas, but my main feedback with my main was that they gave me a half chicken that was difficult to cut up into pieces...maybe I could have used my hands but it just didn't feel like the vibe of the restaurant. Also the prefixed menu seemed like a great deal, but they weren't flexible with accommodating dietary restrictions (I don't eat beef or pork and they were not able to modify the main entree to something vegetarian). read more
Little Bull and the tapas sharing plates don't disappoint even if you do leave lighter in the wallet if not the stomach. Our party of four leaned into the seafood options after creative if decidedly not cheap mixed drinks. Ceviche was lovely and a taste of what was to come with a forkful for each of us. The grilled octopus with cannelli beans broke through as one to remember for next time. The Gambas a La Plancha had the requisite garlic and sauce to mop up with the warm ciabbata, but the salsa piquin gave it a zing that distinguished it from the butter only focused gambas dishes so familiar from Jose Andres' of Jaleo fame among others. The tuna bulgogi (spelled with an extra l on the menu), one of the mas grandes options, was tasty and the presentation left the biggest impression. We shared 8 dishes with one being the larger plate and left full and happy. We did indulge in a Pastelito to share with its warm pastry, goat cheese, guava and whipped cream contrasting well with ripe black raspberries. Again, just a forkful or two each but that was all you needed at the end of a delightful meal. Sunday was hopping so reservations definitely the safe option. read more
Little bull is always a delight, and whenever I am in the area I make it a point to swing by for brunch. I absolutely love shrimp and grits and little bull does the best elevated shrimp and grits I have ever had, hands down. The ceviche was stellar and wqsserved with plantain chips and which made it even better. Their menu has many good options for those with celiac or avoiding gluten which is wonderful. The staff was attentive and was able to help me find more plates to try. My only gripe was the coffee didn't have refills and it wasn't mentioned verbally when we asked for more. Still, even with that i will be by again next time I'm in town read more
First time visiting Little Bull, so at the recommendation of our waiter Komal, we decided to try the tasting menu. Offering a selection of the restaurant's most popular dishes, the tasting menu allowed each of us to select 2 tapas, an entree, and a dessert--plenty of food for even the hungriest of us :) Again at Komal's recommendation, we decided to double up and each select the ceviche as our first course and I'm so glad we did! The snapper was PERFECT and it was nice to have some unsalted plantain chips to scoop all the fresh and citrusy goodness with. We also had the birria dumplings, which had the consommé poured on tableside. The short rib filling was wonderfully flavorful and paired so well with the consommé. The only thing that could have been better about them was if the broth stuck to the dumpling wrapper some more, like the traditional birria tortillas. Our other tapas choice was the octopus and WOW, this dish was amazing! The octopus was cooked perfectly and the warm beans brought some good warmth and richness. For entrees, we got the Little Asada (hangar steak) cooked perfectly at medium rare. The umami flavor lingered on the tongue and the presentation was beautiful. We also tried the Tuna Bull-gogi (I'm a sucker for a good pun) seared rare. The contrast of the warm over easy egg and the rare tuna was chef's kiss. The entire dish was full of flavors that I wouldn't have put together, but worked so incredibly well! Dessert was a singular option of churros with ice cream, which was honestly the perfect end to a delicious meal. The "churros" were cinnamon sugar donut holes, which were warm and soft, served with ice cream and fresh strawberries--the perfect mix of decadent and fresh. The ambiance in the dining room is nice, albeit a little loud. The dark and moody decor makes it a great date night spot. The patio seemed to be popular, but I was honestly too excited to be seated that I didn't look around much out there. I love that we have another delicious tapas restaurant in Durham, one that really stands out with its unique flavor combinations and beautiful presentations. Excited to come back and enjoy more of the menu! read more
4 months ago
I was able to visit Little Bull for friend's birthday brunch and I'm so happy I was able to experience this wonderful restaurant. I love the presentation (and taste) of the margaritas. I ordered the steak and French toast and I'm still dreaming about them both. The steak was perfectly cooked and had so much amazing flavor. The French toast was delectable and exactly what French toast should be. Our server anticipated all of our needs and was super friendly. We sat on the patio which was decorated beautifully, but I'll have to go back to sit inside because it was beautiful to see. I will say if you have somebody that's a picky eater. They might be a little nervous, but all the food is delicious. If you haven't been definitely add this to your list. read more
This place has a great vibe -- intimate and cozy with eclectic decor: chandeliers, dark walls, bold portraits, and oversized mirrors. Both the indoor and covered patio seating are comfortable and climate-controlled. Service was excellent 5+/5-- attentive and well-timed without feeling overbearing. We had a minor mishap at our table, and the staff handled it quickly and graciously. The menu changes based on local sourcing, which keeps things interesting. We ordered the scallops thinking they were cooked, but they came out raw -- surprisingly, they were beautifully done, with Tajín, peach, chilies, and fennel. The elote looked great but was a bit too salty to fully enjoy. The broccolini was the standout dish -- perfectly cooked with a flavorful chili crisp and furikake sauce. Overall, great ambience, thoughtful service, and creative food. Would definitely return. read more
Dinner for four on a Sunday night came to $274.13 including tax + tip, and Little Bull delivered something rare: both an outstanding dining experience and outstanding food. Too often restaurants excel at one or the other, Little Bull truly does both. One thing we've learned living in North Raleigh is that getting to Durham is often only a few minutes longer than driving to downtown Raleigh. We had an out of town guest, so we decided to make the drive. We'd eaten at Little Bull shortly after it opened (once for a weekday dinner and once for Sunday brunch) and loved it, but had never written a review. This felt like the right time. We made a reservation for four on a Sunday night. Because it was Sunday, parking in the nearby lot was free. The lot isn't labeled with the restaurant's name, but staff confirmed it was fine, and it's just a short walk across the street. From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was warm and welcoming. The staff struck the perfect balance of attentiveness and ease. Our server guided us effortlessly through the menu, navigating very different preferences, one vegan who loves heat and spice, another meat-eater who prefers milder flavors. As a group, we enjoy sharing plates, so we ordered generously... possibly too generously. One unifying theme we noticed across the menu was a creative fusion of Mexican influences with Asian, especially Thai, flavors, which made the meal both surprising and cohesive. What we ordered: * Little Asada - 8 oz hanger steak, pasilla marinade, asparagus, cauliflower purée, oyster mushroom, peanut salsa macha * Tuna Bulgogi - NC tuna, rice, kimchi, bok choy, oyster & shiitake mushrooms * Winter Cabbage * Charred Broccolini * Gambas a la Plancha - shrimp, salsa piquín, onion, ciabatta * Halal Geyüs - whole chicken, turmeric, salsa diabla, white sauce, greens, pita, house fries * Ceviche * Churro Bliss * Pastelito - puff pastry, goat cheese, guava, whipped cream, seasonal fruit, sprinkles I also had a glass of wine, and one of us ordered a Café Royale cocktail. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and deeply flavorful. Our vegan diner summed it up best: "The winter cabbage was incredible--and I don't even like cabbage that much. It was the best thing I had all night, closely followed by the broccolini. They really know what to do with vegetables." The out of town guest said everything they had was excellent. The ceviche was a bit underwhelming. I loved the Little Asada, though with so much food I ended up taking some home. The Halal Geyus chicken was tender and juicy. The house fries were excellent. For dessert, the clear winner was the Pastelito--light, balanced, and beautifully executed. I can't recall the exact seasonal fruit, but it worked perfectly, even though we were all quite full by then. Little Bull made a meaningful evening feel cared for, celebratory, and memorable. It's a place we'll return to, not just for the food, but for the experience. read more
5 months ago
I brought 2 of my friends here for dinner because I thought they would really like it and they did! We sat outside this time and although it was a cold evening, the heaters kept us warm. There were several new menu options, but ultimately I ended up ordering the dish that was my favorite the last time that I came here (gambas a la plancha) and it was just as good - if not even better - than I remembered! read more
Little Bull in Durham delivers a brunch experience that feels creative, soulful, and completely grounded in flavor. From the moment you walk in, the energy feels just right. The space is airy and thoughtfully designed with exposed brick, bold splashes of color, and natural light that fills the room. There's a modern southwestern feel woven throughout, but nothing feels forced. The decor is stylish without trying too hard, and the vibe is easygoing in a way that makes you want to settle in and stay a while. The staff matches the energy of the space perfectly. Friendly, informed, and genuinely excited to walk you through the menu. Service was attentive without hovering, and our server gave great insight on what to try and how dishes were prepared. We kicked things off with the Duck Chilaquiles, which came piled high with rich duck confit, crispy totopos, creamy guajillo salsa, avocado salsa, cotija, onions, crema, radish, and a perfectly cooked sunny egg on top. Every bite had layers of texture and heat, and the duck brought a savory depth that took the dish up a notch. It was bold, balanced, and satisfying. Next was the Gambas Grits, featuring grilled shrimp nestled on top of blue corn chihuahua grits with a punchy salsa piquín. The shrimp were charred just right, and the grits were smooth and earthy with a slight sweetness that played beautifully against the heat. It felt like a nod to Southern roots with a twist that kept it interesting. The Steak and Eggs kept it classic with a well-seasoned cut, cooked to order, alongside eggs done just the way we asked. Simple, clean, and familiar. It didn't try to compete with the bolder plates, but it anchored the brunch in a satisfying way. And then came the Frenchxican Toast, which was hands-down the favorite of the meal. Thick slices of brioche pan de natas, soaked in egg batter, caramelized with brûléed sugar, topped with fresh berries, and finished with a horchata glaze that was out of this world. It was decadent but not overly sweet, and had that perfect mix of crispy edges and custardy center that you dream about later. Little Bull brings something special to the Durham food scene. It's inventive but still rooted, stylish but welcoming, and most importantly, everything on the plate delivers. read more
4 months ago
Walked in on a Saturday and it was packed, so definitely make a reservation. I grabbed a seat at the bar and honestly loved the vibe--very grown and sexy ambiance. The food came out quick, fresh, and full of flavor. Everything hit exactly how it should. No complaints whatsoever, just a really solid experience. I'd absolutely come back. read more
Came here for Sunday brunch to celebrate me and my friends' birthdays! Had a good overall experience, but I'm not sure some dishes we got fully lived up to expectations. 3 of us shared the: - Duck Chilaquiles: Classic, I liked all the toppings. - Gambas Grits: Perfectly tender shrimp; the sauce was flavorful but way too salty for me. - Steak & Eggs: Steak was cooked well, but again one of the sauces was very salty. I actually really liked the herby green sauce though, provided great contrast to some otherwise heavy components. - Frenchxican Toast: Absolute stunner of a dish both appearance & taste-wise. The berry and horchata glazes paired with the fluffy, eggy brioche was just heavenly. Do yourself a favor and pls get this! Ambiance is amazing, so aesthetic- there's indoor & outdoor seating. Service was fast and friendly- our server, Kamal, was great. There's plenty of free street parking. It would be perfect if they ease up on the salt, but for now 8/10 would recommend! read more
18 days ago
6 months ago
A colleague and I had dinner at Little Bull tonight. The night air was cold, but we sat in a covered patio warmed by heat lamps. We shared small plates. We started with a delicious ceviche on a sweet potato sauce with delicious crisp plantain chips, and then ate a plate of mixed vegetables. Next up was birria dumplings in spicy adobo sauce, then al pastor pork on a skewer, and gambas al la pancha with a rich hearty red sauce. We finished with Mexican bread pudding swimming in caramel sauce. Our meal was delicious. Our server was excellent. read more
Gave Little Bull in Durham a try the other night and overall it's a great spot. The interior (and courtyard) has a great vibe, casually cool. The service was awesome: fast & friendly, top-tier wait staff. Some of the dishes absolutely hit the mark with others were Ok. Not that quantity is more important than quality, but some of the portions were less generous. I recommend the tasting menu in order to sample the varied items from the kitchen. Will definitely return. read more
As a self-considered Durham foodie, I am ashamed that I was not aware of this establishment until their recent Michelin attention. So I gave it a try prior to a recent DPAC performance. The place was packed at 6pm on a Friday, but my reserved bar seat was ready immediately. (I do love the ability to reserve a bar seat.) The service from the bar staff was quite smooth, and the plates come out tapas-style from the kitchen as ready. I had the birria dumplings, which had tender goat in an unbelievably savory broth that had me spooning it up like soup once the dumplings were gone. I also had the grilled octopus with lima beans and other legumes. It was a festive presentation and perfectly sized as a small plate. The final course was the tempura shrimp bao buns with a slightly spicy aioli and cucumber, carrot, and radish to provide a cooling counterbalance. Overall, the food was a fascinating mashup of Latin American, South American, and Asian flavors. I was very happy with everything. My only nitpick would be that it seemed like quite a long wait between the first two dishes and the bao, which were served third. I might not have noticed as much if I hadn't been heading to a show and had a time constraint. The exterior, with a little walled garden out front, looks like a cozy forest cottage. The interior area looks like it was furnished with pieces from the waiting room of a bordello co-owned by Genghis Khan and Marie Antoinette. Definitely its own arty, fabulous vibe. read more
One of my favorite dining experiences in a LONG time. We got the tasting menu which $65 for four dishes, which was honestly a steal. My date and I each got different dishes so we could try everything, which I HIGHLY recommend. The waitress was so kind and friendly, and honestly did the perfect job of making us excited for each course while maintaining the flow of dishes. The outdoor seating was lovely, relaxed, and decorated with pretty lights, and I would recommend it over the indoor seating, which had a much darker and bustling vibe. Can't go wrong either way though. Now onto the food: each dish was amazing and unique and stunningly plated. The Crudo and Handroll that we ordered separately from the tasting menu were just OK, nothing outstanding. Where I was blown away was the tasting menu. My favorites were the Gambas a la Plancha (the sauce was to DIE for, and we ordered extra bread just to dip it) and the Tuna Bulgogi (the tuna was bright and flavorful and the rice was DELICIOUS). The serving sizes were perfect and we had such a lovely and fun experience. Also, the sparkling rosé paired perfectly with the dishes. Overall, I had high expectations for this place, even before I had any idea about the tasting menu, and my expectations were exceeded. Would definitely come again soon to try any other fun dishes!! read more
This place is amazing!!! We had an opportunity to try out some of the dishes through restaurant week but also ordered a bit on our own. The service was ok but it may have been due to the waiter being new. They didn't really explain much of what was each of the dishes they were serving included or how to eat them but we kind of knew what we were doing so it was fine! We had the Ceviche, Duo Del Mar, and Capirotada for restaurant week and the Barbacoa. Tldr: GET THE BARBACOA!!! Everything else was good but barbacoa was leaps and bounds better than the other dishes. Ceviche: this was a fun mix of seafood mixed with a tart sauce. Overall it was good but felt a little light on the seafood. Duo Del Mar: This was fantastic! If you needed to fill yourself up, this was the way to do it. Great flavor and each bite felt unique. Solid option. Barbacoa: This was the BEST! DO NOT BE INTIMIDATED BY THE INGREDIENTS OF TONGUE AND CHEEK! Those are the best parts! The mix of those cooked in a banana leaf with seasoning made this a delicious collagen and fatty filled delight! Put some of this with the included onion, tomatoes and sauces in a tortilla and it was delightful! Definitely will go back just to eat this one if they have it! Capirotada: solid dessert. exactly as advertised with cinnamon, vanilla extract with a creamy bread pudding. We had an ice cream to especially enhance the creaminess. It was a bit too decadent and sweet for us but it was definitely great! Definitely recommend giving this place a try! read more
1 year ago
Totally unexpected, but the food was Awesome! Chef Oscar Diaz did an amazing job with this menu and there were so many great choices. We had: Birria Dumplings, Charred Broccolini, Barbacoa , Arepas , Mama's Mole puerquito, Little Bullhogi Asada. What was equally amazing was that you could use the sauces from one dish to compliment the other dishes, for example, the chili oil from the broccolini goes great with the dumplings. The broth from the dumplings worked excellent with the Barbacoa tacos. The mole was amazing on its own! The service was excellent, and the ambiance was loud. The bar ask have some really great contrails, and ask about the Party Girl drink special! We will be back to Little Bull for sure one day! read more
First of all, the service here was amazing. Our server was kind, attentive, and gave us great advice. The small plates were all delicious but the star of the show for me was the "she was a fairy" cocktail which was absolutely stunning and delicious. Only taking a star off for how loud the music seemed, it made it hard to hear anyone at the table if they were not directly next to you. Otherwise, wonderful place! read more
Cute little restaurant in Durham with a nice covered outdoor seating area. Food is pricey and their menu is constantly changing. This can be a good and a bad thing. When you have menu items that are a major hit, you should probably keep it on the menu as a staple. My friend raved about their elotes dish but we were told it was not on the menu because it's "seasonal". Quite unfortunate because the table next to us also asked the waitress about the same dish. Being from San Antonio, I have a high standard when it comes to Mexican cuisine. The cost of the dishes and drinks were a little rich for my taste. read more
5 months ago
I just realized I never reviewed our visit for my birthday last year even though I can't stop thinking about it. Don't miss this place!! For a tapas restaurant, the portions were very generous, and all I can think about is the ceviche (best I've ever had) and the bread pudding dessert. We were STUFFED but refused to leave a morsel on the plates! The ambiance is dark, rustic, cozy, with lovely lighting. A special place for a special occasion! I brought my debut children's book... about a little bull! read more
1 year ago
If you're searching on the map right now for a restaurant you've found the one!! Absolutely fantastic. Great service, our waiter was awesome and took initiative to ensure the meal was perfect. Food was outstanding, complex flavors and flavors I had never experienced. I highly recommended the dishes that we got below. The shrimp dish was a big hit and you must get the bread with it and use it to soak up the sauce it comes in 10/10, give this restaurant a go! read more
Really liked the ambience of this place. Parking can be a bit challenging to find but otherwise there's usually plenty of street parking. The food was so good- we couldn't get over the sauce. The best food here was the gambas a la plancha and the bread pudding for dessert. Will definitely come back for special occasions. read more
2 months ago
Little Bull has been on our go-to list for a while, and after the appearance on Top Chef, we were even more intrigued to check it out. We sat outside in a lovely covered patio, both beautiful and cozy. Our server was amazing and gave us a great rundown of the menu. Food was excellent, we particularly loved the ceviche and tuna bulgogi. Definitely recommend! read more
5 months ago
1 year ago
We made a reservation for Sunday brunch, we arrived early, but were seated right away. Parking was a little tough since I think it was only street parking. Some of you say that you can park at the minimart across the street, but I wasn't definite on that so we decided not to do it. Upon entering, the interior was very awesome. I absolutely loved the decor. It was almost dark academias feel with charcoal and florals and glitz frames. Our seats were fairly comfortable as we waited for the other couple to join us. The service seemed a little bit slow and our waitress was a little unsure about some of the items on the menu. We had looked at the website to get a better guess of what we were going to order, however, what we had wanted on the website was not available on the menu. We all ended up getting the El Bono, which was just OK. I particularly liked the yucca bread, however, the other half of our table did not. The plantains were just there. They were plain and lacked flavor of any sort. The drinks were also slightly disappointing. The Hugo spritz was mostly champagne and seltzer. The menu said $15 but the receipt said $11. My husband got an IPA that rang up $14 though, which I don't recommend. The restrooms were very clean. All in all, I was disappointed. My best friend and I decided to come here for a birthday brunch since our birthdays are 18 days apart but this failed to impress. Nothing was wrong, it just wasn't spectacular like we expected it to be. read more
Such a great little spot! Get atmosphere, busy with a very city feel. The drinks were really good, I very much enjoyed my "witches be tripping." We loved loved loved our arepas and the barbacoa tacos, they were absolutely delicious. The only issue we had was with the octopus, it was over cooked and dry and possibly too grilled. Everyone at our table agreed it was not good and the waiter took it back. He forgot to take it off our bill even though we said we didn't like it, and didn't eat any of it. He was apologetic and took it off the bill after he said he had forgotten. I'm not knocking him for forgetting, but I'm a huge octopus fan and that was a let down. Other than that we had a great time and the rest of the food was spectacular! read more
I arrived and was promptly seated. The hostess was friendly, and the entire staff was welcoming. Everything I tried was delicious. I had the Little Asada, and the flavors were incredible, cooked just as I had requested. The sangria was excellent as well. The restaurant itself was clean and had vibrant decor, creating a great atmosphere. I had no complaints. Parking was easy to find on the street, though the adjacent lot they recommended was full. read more
My wife and I decided to finally check this place out. I'm glad that they have finally added some vegetarian options. The drinks were okay, but not worth the price. Overall the food was stunning and very tasty. However the birria dumplings were not good. The goat meat was very chewy and decided not to eat it. Better to skip that dish. Customer service was on point. Overall a great experience, but at the cost of a high price tag. I don't think we will be back with those kinds of prices. We dropped over $130 for dinner. read more
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Any information on parking would be appreciated?
Street parking or there is a lot across the street. Never had a problem parking on the street with a very short walk.
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Little Bull - bars - Updated June 2026
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