Choosing the right restaurant for a group outing can be challenging. You need a place that appeals to diverse tastes, offers reasonable prices, provides good service, and isn’t too adventurous to ensure everyone is comfortable. MEZ in Durham fits this bill perfectly, offering a “contemporary Mexican” experience that is broadly appealing and conveniently located near I-40 and Quintiles, making it an excellent option for a relaxed and satisfying meal.
From the outside, MEZ makes a striking impression with its large, stucco building adorned with arches. This Southwestern-inspired aesthetic continues inside, where high ceilings and exposed beams create a spacious and modern environment. The interior is clean, bright, and welcoming, setting the stage for a pleasant dining experience. I settled at the bar, ready to explore MEZ’s offerings during Triangle Restaurant Week. The special menu featured a tempting three-course pre-fixe for just $15, and my choices were quickly made: Crema Elote, Pulled Pork Tacos, and Dulce de Leche Cake.
Observing the dining room, the clientele at MEZ appeared to be a mature, business-oriented crowd, predominantly aged 35 to 60, likely from the nearby Research Triangle Park offices. My first course, the Crema Elote, soon arrived – a rich, creamy corn soup loaded with chopped green peppers, sweet corn kernels, and crumbled cheese. Its dense texture and surprisingly sweet flavor profile made for a delightful start to the meal.
Next up were the Pulled Pork Tacos, and the portion size immediately signaled a challenge. Three substantial tacos, served on corn tortillas and topped with tomatillo sauce, generous helpings of pulled pork, potato cubes, and red cabbage, were presented. While visually appealing and packed with filling, the tacos, unfortunately, lacked a robust flavor punch. The pork itself was somewhat bland, and the braised cabbage contributed a soft texture that didn’t quite complement the dish. The abundance of moist ingredients also led to the tortillas breaking apart, making them a bit difficult to manage.
Despite feeling quite full, the final course of Triangle Restaurant Week was calling – dessert. The Tres Leches Cake at MEZ is undeniably generous. A large slice of moist yellow cake, generously soaked in three milks and topped with whipped cream and a drizzle of dulce de leche, arrived. While perhaps best shared between two, I made a valiant effort as a solo diner and enjoyed its comforting sweetness.
The bar service was efficient and attentive throughout the meal, adding to the overall positive experience. Leaving MEZ, I felt satisfied, if perhaps overly full. For Triangle Restaurant Week, MEZ offered excellent value and a pleasant meal. However, it lands in the category of reliably good rather than exceptionally crave-worthy. This is precisely why MEZ is a “parent-friendly” restaurant – consistently competent and enjoyable, making it a safe and agreeable choice for a variety of diners. If you’re seeking a dependable dining experience, Mez Contemporary Mexican will undoubtedly leave you content.
5410 Page Rd #8
Durham, NC 27703
919.941.1630
