Such a gem! I loved having cuisine I've never had before. I made a reservation, but when I arrived, i realized there would of been availability without reservation. They had my table ready and were very warm in their welcome. I hadnt had food like this before and the staff was kind in taking time to explain the dishes and make recommendations. I have the dova rice and pili piri chicken wings. The wings were spicy, nutty, juicy. So delicious! The rice dish went so well with the chicken. It had peanuts in it and the texture of the rice was so unique. It was a match made in heaven. The ambiance is so elegant and calming. I'm glad i was able to come in casual attire and not feel out of place. It was nice to see people outside the restaurant peacefully staring at the waterfalls. I'm so glad i got to try this restaurant during my trip in Durham I was so memorable. read more

Place has good ambience and nice feel to it. Service was average It is a tapas kind restaurant so service is different than regular places. Food is served as it is cooked. We made reservations for four and it was easy. Though when we reached it was not busy at all Unfortunately the two tapas that we wanted to order were not available may be because we were there around 7, but that is not a justification because our choices got very limited Cauliflower was mediocre with a large floret on the top of peanut/coconut sauce, and vegan crab cake was average with a peri peri kinda sauce at bottom, but corn was really good though I had to use my hands to eat because cob was attached. Goat was good with tomato based curry and have bits in the curry and pieces as well but the qty of pieces was too less, chicken wings are extremely good, they melt in your mouth..mocktails were yummy but I found the quantity very less with lot of ice in the glass... my husband enjoyed his old fashion tamarind drink with bourbon, though we could not taste the tanginess of tamarind... water was at room temperature ...overall a ok place for a relaxing dinner but not compelling enough for me to drive again 40 minutes. Place definitely felt overpriced for the amount of food ... read more

Tried this place before date night on a Saturday. They suggested we make reservations, but once we arrived, I could tell that was for image purposes, as they were barely at 30% capacity. Before I continue, this place is nice and has a LOT of potential. There's a really good chance I would come back here. It is tapas (table plate-sharing based), and the food comes out as it is cooked, not in appetizer-then-entree order. With that being said... Our experience: Saturday evening, 6:30pm reservations Our order: Banana Mojito, a spritzer of some kind, the Braised Goat, Dovi Cauliflower, Magwinyas & Ice Cream. The food: The goat came out first, with jollof rice and a few fried plantains on the side. The goat sauce was a tad bit spicy, and the goat meat was good, but you had to work it like neckbones (maybe I'm unfamiliar with navigating goat meat): It was tasty. The plantains were the best I have EVER had, even from the Caribbean. The cauliflower came out next, sitting in a coconut-peanut sauce. It was a rather large head and it was good. If you do not like peanut sauce, I would say not to get it. Its really what gave the grilled cauliflower any flavor. Because I like bread, I opted to get the magwinyas (the waitress said that we'd get two, gesturing they'd be about the size of an airpod case), but when they arrived, they were about the size of a gobstopper. THEY ARE NOT LIKE ANY PHOTOS ONLINE. The best part is that they were warm and the homemade ice cream was Oreo lemon - we noticed it was the vanilla Oreo, not the chocolate. The ice cream was rich, and although it was pretty good, we couldn't finish it. For the price, the serving sizes were rather small, which doesn't explain why we were full at the end. The pros: nice ambiance, although the place is VERY intimate: tables are kinda small, and somewhat close together. The food came out surprisingly fast (not just ours, but for the parties seated around us as well). I understand the bathroom is large and VERY well decorated and comfortable. It is for ONE PERSON at a time though. The cons: The service was definitely beneath the establishment. While the waitress knew the menu, her presentation was lacking (dirty and soiled apron - from way before that day), and she was lackluster in her service. The water is pre-poured into carafes, and was almost warm. We asked for ice and never got it. The waitress did not identify the items on the menu that were not available, we were only told after we expressed interest. MAYBE ONCE did she come to check on us, even though they only had 4-5 tables seated. AND, when she wasn't waiting tables, she could be seen eating directly in the window the kitchen door. Tips: Park in the South Lot, its literally steps away. If you go here on a Durham Bulls game day, let the parking attendants know you're parking for dining and they will allow you to park for free. You can also park for free in the North Lot: its an easy 5 min walk through the Tobacco Campus. When I walk into a restaurant, the ambiance and the menu (prices) set my expectations. While I understand everything has gotten more expensive lately, I feel like this place is a little overrated and overpriced. IF and when I do return, I'll try the chicken wings and sausage rolls. read more

We came here on a Wednesday night with a 7pm reservation. There was one other party already in the restaurant and one other party there while we were, so if you want the restaurant to yourself, Wednesday at 7pm might be the best time to come. We started with the Dovi Rice Bites. Five come in a portion. They were good, flavorful, and the sauce it was served in accompanied it well. The Braai chicken was not my favorite, but only because I didn't care too much for the peanut sauce it was served in. The chicken was tender and had a great char flavor, but it wasn't seasoned well since it was seasoned with powdered ginger which doesn't really pack enough of a punch flavor wise. However, the braised goat was the star! The goat was delicious and tender and the jollof rice was different than I'm used to but good. The sauce though! The sauce the goat was served in was phenomenal. I'd love to bottle that and have it on every meal. I also took the Braai chicken and rolled it around in the sauce, which improved it exponentially. I'd return for that braised goat! read more

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Grabbed dinner here recently and had a good time. First, parking is easy since there's a garage nearby. We didn't have a reservation but luckily managed to snag a table, probably because the Bulls weren't in town :) Our server did an OK job throughout the meal, although I think she could have been a little more present. She recommended that we order 4 small plates and 1 large plate (for 2 people) but that sounded like a lot of food to us, so we decided to start with 2 small plates and 1 large plate. My wife and I split the corn ribs, the cauliflower, and the red snapper. The food arrived as it was prepared, which was totally fine with us. The corn ribs came first, and they were delicious! They were probably my favorite part of the meal. Next came the cauliflower, which was in a curry sauce, and it was also very tasty. Finally, the red snapper arrived and it was surprisingly maybe my least favorite dish. It wasn't bad or anything, but the flavors were a little more muted compared to the other two dishes. The potato (?) puree served with it was good, though! It was a little pricey but that's kind of expected with tapas-style food I guess. We were full after our 2 small plates and 1 large plate, so I would definitely caution people against ordering more unless you have a big appetite. Overall, it was a fun experience and I would definitely come back here. read more

Summary: Great, intimate interior; server was kind and attentive; food was mostly good but chicken dishes were a bit flat; confusing hours and interesting interaction at the end. Heads up- they actually close at 9 PM, not 10 PM. Our server was great in recommending that between three people, we could share two bigger dishes and 3-4 smaller ones- that was more than enough to fill us up. It was a bit confusing to tell which dishes on the menu were small and which were the big ones, she did explain once and kindly did again when we requested. We were also told that we needed to order everything in one go so they pace the dishes coming out. I came here with two of my girl friends to celebrate a night of accomplishments- from graduate school graduations, to starting a new job, to traveling solo. Our food was good overall. Some highlights: the goat is a MUST have. One of the best goat dishes I've ever had- meat is so tender and juicy, fall off the bone, very succulent, extremely flavorful. One of my friends who isn't often a fan of goat, really loved it and also ranked it as her favorite dish. The cauliflower was incredible, especially with the special peanut/sesame/curry-like sauce. Incredible cocktails- a favorite were the Red Ghost (with tequila), and I believe the Spanish Citrus Spritz (I might have gotten the name wrong). The slightly flatter dishes were both the chicken dishes we had- they both felt like they were lacking in flavor, the Berbere Half Chicken and Piri Piri Chicken Wings. The chicken wings in particular didn't feel quite notable, we wish there was also a different sauce- even though it was coated with spices, it felt like it was a bit flat and the flavor was way too subtle. Similar with the Berbere Half Chicken. Lastly- the hours are really confusing. We saw online, both Google and Yelp that the restaurant closed at 10 PM. We didn't see it in noticeable writing nor were we notified in advance that they actually close at 9 PM. Because there was also another table, and that we checked online for their closing time, we thought we were doing okay on time. A man came up a bit after nine to check if we needed anything else, we were about to start on our cake (we called in advance to make sure it was okay), and then told us they closed at nine with undertones of asking us to leave. It was kind of them to let us know after we were there past nine, however it was also confusing because he checked on the table behind us and didn't tell them. We kindly checked with them since we didn't see anywhere/weren't notified by anyone about the time, and he told us that Google actually didn't let them change the times so it was now nice to know. They also brought a new dish out for them as well after 5 minutes, and it left us confused, especially since they didn't say anything to their table and only told ours. Not wanting to bother them, we packed up quietly and left, weren't greeted out but I suppose it was late. If we had known, we definitely would have respected the time and have left. I was particularly excited to come here especially because my school also has a Zweli's restaurant/cafe too that I have gone almost weekly- they're different, but I've always had a great experience there. I think the interaction here at the restaurant left me a bit off at this location. read more

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Full disclosure, we were supposed to dine at another restaurant prior to an event in the area. I mentioned that because I wasn't in the best of moods for a variety of reasons. With that being said, I ordered the Nigerian Suya Chicken menu option. The chicken was flavorful, with moderate to high heat depending on your heat tolerance. The staff was kind and accommodating, and the restaurant aesthetic was attractive. I did find service to be on the slower side especially if you are in a rush, as I was. While I did enjoy the food, I'm not sure if I'd order that particular dish again as I don't think my palate is familiar with peanuts outside of traditional Americanized treatment. Looking forward to trying other food options. African restaurant: 3.98 read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Nigerian Suya & Water - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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I was expecting bolder flavors, but the food was still pretty good, especially the presentation. My reason for 3 stars is because my friend ordered the ox tail entree and half way into him eating it, we realized the dish was also supposed to come with plantain mash. When we asked our server about it, she said they were out of the plantain mash... Wow... That was pretty shady that the entree didn't come complete and they didn't even address it until we asked. Also, they were out of to-go boxes, which sucked because it was not a cheap meal and we would have liked to take home what we were not able to finish. They did offer aluminum foil, but we didn't want to risk liquids leaking out. Plus, there would have been no way to heat it up in the hotel room. I surely hope it was an off day for them, but regardless for what we paid, the experience didn't sit too well with us. read more

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Amazing Experience and even had the treat of having the Durham Mayor as our server!!! The food was Amazing!!! Everything was great!! The atmosphere is beautiful inside and out. We sat outside by the fireplace, and really enjoyed people watching and the vibes. We started with a table of four and expanded to eight we were having such a good time. There was not a single item that was less than a 10/10. One of the best dining experience I have had. Look forward to sharing this experience with others in the future. read more

Every time I come here it's a pleasant experience. I love the aesthetic/ ambience. the servers and incredible food make ekhaya my go to recommendation for a nice dinner with friends or the perfect date night. Tonight I sat at the bar and only had the Brussel sprouts and a gin cocktail-both were excellent. Doug, the bartender, was excellent and so knowledgeable about the menu. If you like FLAVOR and a unique dining experience absolutely recommend! read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Brussels sprouts - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Zweli's Ehkaya delivered an absolutely amazing brunch experience for my family! From the seamless reservation process to the immediate seating in their stunning, authentically Zimbabwean-inspired space, everything was top-notch. Our server, Nia, was a gem - incredibly knowledgeable and her recommendations were spot on. Here is what we enjoyed: Sweet Magwinyas $10.00 Zimbabwean donut bread with powered sugar French Toast $18.00 Banana's foster's with candied pistachios and a honey ricotta cream Fried Catfish $19.00 Stone ground grits with a cajun sauce, and egg your way Each Addition $5.00 Bacon, Two Eggs Banana Mojito $12.00 Banana Rum, garnished with mint sprig and lime wheel Peargingertini $17.00 Pear vodka, pear, and ginger mash topped with cava Beyond the exceptional food and drinks, the restaurant was impeccably clean and well-maintained, and the nearby parking deck was a definite plus. We can't wait for our next visit to Ehkaya's! read more

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This was our first Ethiopian food trial in the Triangle, and we were not disappointed. The restaurant was clean and quiet, and the service prompt and friendly. The food was presented on a circular tray on injera (Ethiopian stretchy bread), and of course, we ate with our hands, which is half the fun of going to an Ethiopian restaurant! We also enjoyed a bottle of Ethiopian beer, which has a picture of a woman with her eyes sideways which is funny yet iconic. The food was tasty, and the price reasonable. I will come here again. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Zweli meal - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

First time visiting this restaurant. We were referred here by some very close friends who never let me down. We ordered "The Mayor" drink. It was very good. We ordered the chicken wings, the oxtails, the watermelon soup and the curry cauliflower. We couldn't decide which one we liked the best. They were all excellent. The staff were all great and the food came out right on time. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - The Mayor!! - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I did not think African cuisine could be so vegetarian friendly! The use of fresh, flavorful vegetables and traditional African dishes was something like I've never had before. Every dish was something different and challenged my palette. I would come back again and again for the rice bomb. The cocktails were strong and excellent. The service on the patio felt like a family dinner. Will be bringing people here again! read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Beets - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Modern take on African cuisine. Tapas-inspired menu. Not a huge menu list, but the offerings are delicious as well as extremely vegetarian/vegan friendly. We enjoyed the Curried Oxtails with plantain in addition to the Seafood Curry. Both dishes were absolutely delicious! Good portion size and well-seasoned. Ekhaya also has a cocktail and wine list to choose from. My husband enjoyed his Tamarind Old-fashioned while their rosé was quite nice as well. All in all, one of the nicer restaurants in American Tobacco with cuisine you don't find everywhere! read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Curried Oxtail - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Have eaten here know several times and each time has been great. The food is good and sizes are good for tapas style. The beets were great as was the cauliflower and chicken. Our only complaint is there being out of items we really wanted and the wait staff not knowing it was "86'd". In general though we've been happy every time we've gone. read more

Tried their vegan menu and was thoroughly impressed. Everything was so flavorful. I don't even eat regular method but this vegan meatloaf was delicious. We also enjoyed vegan crab cakes, vegan lettuce wraps, cassava and mushrooms and a few cocktails (full bar), not many cocktail options. They recently debuted a brunch menu I'd like to try. Prices are decent. Parking is kinda tricky, either street or the deck so arrive early if you have an appointment. The atmosphere was swanky and chill. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Vegan crabcakes - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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Perfect spot to grab some food downtown before a show at DPAC! They accept reservations which is super helpful and usually needed for our nights out. Food and drinks were tasty. They were out of a few things that we tried to order, however, they really tried to make it right by comping our desserts. I loved all of the decor! read more

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The dovi bomb was good, like extremely tasty if you like African peanut sauce which I love. The Suya kabobs were also very good. What I did not like was the Steak and Mushroom meat pie, that tasted worse than Ass on a hot summer day read more

We needed to find a place for dinner before a show at DPAC and stumbled upon Ekhaya. What a great thing that was. First, they served us a plate of flash fried chickpeas that was divine with our drinks. Doug fixed us a pear martini that was so good we had to order more. Our dinner of chicken grilled on a skewer and then served in a peanut sauce was divine. Leo came out to speak with us before we left. I told him I was going to write a glowing review. If you are in the neighborhood give it a try. read more

I've been to their sister restaurant but this is the first time I tried this place. I got the shakshuka and the dovi cauliflower and overall it was very good. The shakshuka was good but could have been better. The eggs were quite rubbery but the flavors were on point. The cauliflower was delicious and with very unique flavors. We also got a brunch drink which was good but would likely not get again. The service was good and we got seated quickly even without a reservation. The staff was friendly and helped with our choices. The atmosphere was good but very cozy as there is limited space and you are seated very closely to other parties. The prices were also definitely on the higher end but still worth depending on what you get. Overall, I think this place was good and on the way to being great. I am curious about their normal dinner menu and will have to come back to try it. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - shakshuka - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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The owner of this spot is our Mayor and a friend. Last time I ate there he and his wife were there. Great food, quality staff and affordable food...Definitely will be making a returning trip soon.. read more

My wife and I were excited to try this place out for our date night. However we left a little disappointed. We got three small plates and two drinks for about $80. The plates were described as shareable, but wouldn't agree with that. The food was delicious, just not sure it was worth the cost. Everything about the evening was elevated, even the cost! read more

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My husband and I dined in for dinner here before walking over to the DPac for a show. We started off with water but were not able to purchase alcoholic beverages due to a mishap with their license. For food we started off with a complimentary order of the fried chickpeas then split the dovi rice bomb, dovi cauliflower, savory sausage rolls, roasted golden & red beets and suya chicken kabobs. All of the food was really good but my favorites were the cauliflower and sausage rolls. This restaurant does add on a living wage fee for gratuity. It was expensive but is definitely worth checking out. read more

We went for brunch on Sunday, only available from 11am to 3pm. There wasn't a long line and we were able to be seated immediately. The drinks were strong and the food was delicious. The catfish was crispy and well seasoned. the bananas foster was decadent but delicious beautiful location, and decor. There's a free parking deck next to it. Highly recommend. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Catfish & Grits (Brunch Menu) - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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We are fans of the original Zwelli's and wanted to try this sister restaurant. We had an offer from a local dining club and made reservations for Sunday brunch. We enjoyed the food and the decor and the staff was very friendly. If there was one tiny glitch, it seemed like they were still setting up and staff were still arriving throughout our meal. Everything was delicious but it seemed to take a bit long, and we had to remind our server about our drink orders. We would be willing to come back and try them for dinner. read more

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This place is the first known Zimbabwean restaurant in the United States, and it offers quite a culinary experience! The menu definitely offers a variety of delicious items for all tastes. The service, professionalism and ambience are exceptional! Refer to the photos for more info about the dishes we had. It also offers a full bar with traditional drinks. This place is located in a beautiful facility in downtown Durham with plenty to do around within walking distance. It also has its own parking garage with affordable rates. 100% recommended. read more

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We went in to celebrate our anniversary, I was really excited about this place because I had seen a bunch of local influencers rave about it plus the menu looked very unique. Our reservation was for 8 pm and we made it just in time as It was not very easy to locate, as maps dropped us at the back entrance of the building and we had to find our way to the front of the building and yet entered from their side entrance and not the main. We were received quickly and seated. While making reservations I had mentioned we are celebrating our anniversary as well as dietary restrictions - my partners shellfish allergy (which I later realised they hadn't checked or read) We were starving, yet trying to be conservative with the ordering as I am trying to calorie count and eat healthy so didn't go overboard ordered 2 appetisers, an entree, my partner got a beer and thought we'd probably get a dessert. From the very limited menu which they were out of most of the items that we wanted to try we got the Dovi rice bomb (which was delicious) the crispy rice in a spicy sauce. We also got the suya steak skewers (this was a tad bit chewy and slightly under seasoned as per our liking). We also ordered the half chicken which came with a side slaw/ salad and hot honey (I think) this was very well cooked and tasted amazing! What made our experience horrible was our server, Jeremy (it's been a few weeks, so I may misremember his name) We placed our order for all items within the first 10 mins (limited menu and starving stomachs). He told us couple of the items were out, but the tables beside us ordered it and got the items. The tables are closely placed so invariably we could hear and see. He was also annoyed that we didn't order more items. He asked us if we had any allergies and if we ate pork/ bacon and then said he will bring out the amuse bouche, but got us the apps directly. At around 9.20 while we started getting antsy but were very patient for our mains, as people who came in after us had already eaten and left. Our server kept avoiding us for almost an hour. We didn't even get a water refill, finally when we could get his attention we asked about the amuse and he said they ran out of it and if we want to order anything else, so we declined and said we are just waiting on our chicken! That is when he got the menu and started schooling us on how tapas style kitchen work like we were imbeciles, and told us the chicken takes 30 mins to cook and we were way over the hour mark on that. He also proceeded to complain to the manager Karina who initially was a little stern are rude and came and re-schooled us how their system runs. We were a bit mad at this point, as we just wanted to eat. When we got to her notice that it was 9.30 and over 1.5 hrs of waiting she checked with the kitchen, after which she apologised profusely comped our meal and also gave us a gift card stating we come back in to re-celebrate and I am very skeptical to go back but I will give them a chance to redeem themselves -service wise as their food was pretty good! read more

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If I could give more stars I would. From the moment we were greeted at the door to exiting the restaurant, we felt welcomed and taken care of. Friendly staff and high quality food made this place one of the most enjoyable dining experiences I have had. When the owner greeted us while we were waiting for a table by saying, "Are you prepared to have one of the most amazing meals?", he wasn't kidding. The menu selection was great. Not too much that it was overwhelming but just enough where between the four of us we could sample a lot of their dishes. So we ordered the creamed spinach, Dovi rice bomb, roasted golden and red beets, Dovi cauliflower,Suya chicken kebobs, and the bobotie. Each was uniquely delicious in its own way. We shared everything which I recommend doing cause you don't want to miss experiencing each of these dishes. We all loved every dish. The creamed spinach was the only dish that didn't seem to match its title and description but it was still very tasty. All the dishes were fresh and beautifully presented. If I am lucky enough to return (we are visiting out of town), I would definitely get the cauliflower and Bobotie again. As I am writing this review the day after I am still thinking about these dishes. Since this place is new and not well known yet at the time of this writing, it wasn't too crowded and we didn't make a reservation. We ended up waiting for about 5 minutes on a Thursday evening around 7:30. But I predict this place will be popular one day soon. Unbeatable service and excellent, delicious food make this place a must for locals and visitors. read more

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We had a lovely meal at Ekhaya, a new southern African restaurant. The cocktails were innovative, fresh, and tasty. There were share plates, both small and large, with fresh ingredients and interesting preparations. In particular, the Steak Pie and the Rice Ball were my favorites - blends of unique spices, not oversauced. And you won't be making these dishes at home We also were privileged to have a conversation with our own Mayor who stopped by to chat We will be back... read more

Walked in at 6:05pm and didn't get my food till 7:05pm. Yes we ordered right away. 25 min after we ordered dessert they said they haven't started on it so we just cancelled it. Even a check takes 10 min to show at the table. Also, one strip of salmon dipped in a little curry should not cost $55. Oh another thing, 20% mandatory gratuity for a 2-seat table? Nah... never coming back again. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Salmon curry. $55. - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

The hub & I visited Ekhaya (the new offering by Zweli's) on a Tuesday night after making a reservation via Resy. We were first impressed by their location on the American Tobacco Campus (pictured); they have both indoor and patio seating. We ordered the Dovi cauliflower, beef kabobs, and Burberry half chicken (pictured), as well as a glass of South African Chenin Blanc and a glass of Pinotage. Everything was wonderful... the food, service, atmosphere, and wine. We will be back! read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Tobacco Campus at night - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

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This place is amazing. I feel like they do a lot of small plates, but that's the whole point. My friend and I went we had great drinks. We had good food and the waste office pretty on point. read more

I love that Ekhaya is diversifying the food scene in Durham. I wanted to really love my experience too, but it just didn't quite hit the mark for me. Our server was fantastic. Really amicable and checked in just the right amount. A little more laid back style of service, but felt like talking to a friend. The restaurant itself is quite small and has a more casual vibe than a date night vibe. Onto food, you start out with some complimentary chickpeas which is a nice touch if you're feeling peckish. The Dovi Rice Bomb was quite good, with fluffy rice and a subtle peanut flavor. The Chicken Skewers were tender, but quite bland and generic. By contrast, the Beef and Mushroom Pie was overly salty to the point that it overwhelmed any other flavors going on. Except the flavor of burnt pastry crust. Cocktails were surprisingly good though. I had the Pomegranate Spritz and my boyfriend enjoyed the Red Ghost with tequila more than the Signature. Perhaps we just ordered poorly this go around (despite following the server's recommendations), but I left feeling quite disappointed. I didn't get the novel culinary experience I was expecting and didn't feel like I got a representative taste of Southern African cuisine. read more

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This is definitely not your same ol' same ol'. I'm pretty sure you won't find a similar menu within a hundred mile radius, maybe more. It's a pretty small space with a riot of woven baskets attached to the ceiling to give atmosphere with the activity of the American Tobacco Campus just outside the wraparound windows. (The website mentioned a communal dining experience, so I sort of expected shared big tables, but it's set up with standard individual smaller two- and four-tops.) The service was friendly, but a bit disorganized. I selected the Bantu Bellini (a passionfruit variation of the classic), which was tasty. The dovi rice ball was recommended as a signature appetizer, so I had that. The mix of rice and peanut butter together is strange to the American palate, but it was quite delicious and the savory sweet pepper sauce served with it was also very satisfying. For my main course, I selected the char-grilled Berbere hen with a Nigerian spice mix. The server was only able to say that it was a newer addition to the menu, but I love poultry so I went ahead. The meat was very good, though there is always the challenge of dealing with lots of little bones with such a dish. the greens and corn base was also very good. The dish was rounded out by roasted tri-color carrots. They were a little al dente for me and I wished they had been cooked a touch longer, but that could be just personal preference. All in all, I liked the feel of the space and the (smallish) menu offers several options I'd be interested in trying. Most of all, this will scratch the itch when you just want something different or adventurous. read more

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Ehkaya is such a unique and inspired place within the Durham dining scene. I love the ambience. There's nothing quite like this experience and this food here. They really tell an amazing story through these dishes and the environment in the dining room. Every dish packs a huge punch in their seasonings and flavors. We nearly made a whole meal out of ordering the small plates and passing them around in between cocktails. The service is excellent as well. Everyone we encountered wanted to make sure we were having a great time. They are also able to give excellent suggestions if you are unfamiliar with African dishes. As an African myself, I appreciated the authenticity of the dishes we had. For the Small Plates we shared ... 1. Dovi Rice Bites, if you're vegan or GF, it can be available to you. The savoury crispy rice bites, served with their signature mild pepper sauce, homemade peanut butter, and fresh herbs, were delicious! 2. Dovi Cauliflower is also available for those who are vegans, GF. This is roasted cauliflower smothered in creamy peanut and coconut curry sauce. Yes! 3. Suya Chicken Kabobs. To all my Nigerians friends out there, this almost a taste of home. This is Nigerian influenced. Chicken medallions marinated in a Nigerian spice blend (paprika, ginger, scotch bonnet) topped with peanut. Ooh, yes! For the Large Plates selection ... I had the Market Fish. This is fresh whole fish, oven roasted whole with house made plantain tortillas, served over a fennel and dill slaw. You know what, just go and try this place out. I'll be turning. I had the opportunity to speak with the owners, great people. Side Note. Vegetarian options: There are several vegan and gluten-free options available on the menu, and they're all great. Parking: There's a parking deck connected to the Tobacco Campus. The exit of the deck is directly across from Ehkaya. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - Fried plantains - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

Food is good, the restaurant ambience is nice, but the service is nonexistent and the little bit we got was rude. We sat down for 20 minutes and had to get up to find the bartender ask for some water and for someone to take our order. When I (had to get up and find the waitress) asked for some salt and pepper to put on my breakfast potatoes, the waitress said, "we do not put out salt and pepper because the food is meant to be eaten the way the chef intended." Mind you, I'm talking about adding some salt and pepper to breakfast potatoes.... The shakshuka was otherwise good, although they only gave one piece of toast to use for dipping. I asked for a second piece and never got it, but got the charge on my bill ($2 for a piece of toast). They were also extremely slow in bringing out the food for one member of our dining group and when asked about the food, the response was "All of our food is made fresh to order." At the end of the meal, we also had to get up to find someone to give us our check. On the check: 20% automatic gratituty for our group of 4. The food and ambience were fine, but our multiple terrible interactions just made this a difficult dining experience. If I'd wanted to serve myself, I would've just done take out and not have to pay the 20% auto gratuity. I don't think the price is worth the food, however good the food was. read more

Service was super fast as they accommodated a large group of us. The decor inside and outside were both beautiful and diverse. Would recommend the French toast. read more

Zweli's Ekhaya - French Toast - Tapas/Small Plates Near Me - Durham, North Carolina

I don't know if the food, or the service was better, but my experience was 10/10. It's beautifully, yet simply decorated, in a great location in Durham. The food is scratch made to order, came out fast, hot and extremely delicious. Was so surprised at all the flavor that was each dish. Even my cocktail was refreshing and delicious. Absolutely recommend everyone to check this place out. read more

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I was really excited to try this place. The ambiance is cool the drinks were really good (shout out to the bartender). The servers were nice but not that attentive at all. Lastly I wasn't a fan of the food. The chicken skewers were okay but could use more seasoning. The dovi ball was super dense like could barely break it open dense I would not recommend. The chapati bread was good but it's served on top of "pepper sauce" so it got soggy. The pepper sauce lacked heat. It tasted more like marinara sauce. The sausage rolls were decent. All in all I was disappointed. I really was hoping I would like this place. Not sure if I would come back here. read more