05-05-2025
Mala Pata and its minibar Peyote will open in Raleigh on May 14
Mala Pata, a highly anticipated Latin American restaurant focused on fresh masa, and its sister bar Peyote will open May 14 at Gateway Plaza in Raleigh.
Why it matters: Mala Pata joins a growing hub of local restaurants at Gateway Plaza. It will share kitchen space with the soon-to-re-open vegan restaurant Fiction Kitchen, and an alley way with the bar Natural Science, indoor golfing space Dogwood Country Club and Mordecai Beverage Co.
Driving the news: Mala Pata said it will host its final pop-up dinner on May 5 at the adjacent Natural Science bar for Cinco de Mayo.
Zoom in: Mala Pata was born from the creative minds behind spots like Centro, Gallo Pelón, Ex-Voto and Locals Seafood, combining a love for classic Latin American dishes as well as fresh seafood.
At the center of Mala Pata will be a focus on fresh masa, a dough made from corn that's used to make tortillas, tamales and other items.
The menu will also include tuna tartacos, enchiladas with a Cheerwine-infused mole, aguachile featuring North Carolina shrimp and fish tacos.
Attached to the restaurant is a seven-seat minibar called Peyote, which will focus on serving cocktails, beer and wine to patrons at Mala Pata and in its alley way.
Eventually, Peyote will offer several late-night bites after Mala Pata closes, including items like nachos and burritos.
Hours: Wednesday through Saturday, 5-10pm.
