NuvoTaco

NuvoTaco

2512 University Dr, Durham, NC 27707, United States

+1 919-873-3033

Mexican restaurant, Family restaurant, Restaurant, Taco restaurant
(1835)
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About This Place

NuvoTaco in Durham, NC, stands out as a vibrant Mexican and family-friendly restaurant that masterfully blends traditional flavors with a welcoming, casual vibe. Located conveniently on University Drive, this taco haven offers an extensive menu filled with tempting dishes designed to delight your taste buds and satisfy your cravings for authentic Mexican fare.

From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a lively, laid-back atmosphere that perfectly matches the bold, fresh flavors served up at your table. Whether you're craving the iconic Grilled Fish Tacos bursting with juicy, tender fish wrapped in housemade gluten-free corn tortillas, or the indulgent Nachos with Garlic Beef, each dish highlights the kitchen’s dedication to quality and flavor harmony. The Big Daddy’s Burrito is a generous, flavor-packed masterpiece that promises a hearty and satisfying meal, while the Chill House Chorizo 'Fondito offers a spicy, comforting experience that perfectly balances warmth and zest.

NuvoTaco also boasts a creative range of appetizers like the crispy Fried Shrimp and light yet flavorful Fried Calamari, both perfectly paired with their signature Chips & Salsa and the refreshing Watermelon Agua Fresca. For those looking to sip something special, the Gold Margarita and the unique Afterburn Mix Spicy Margarita cocktail mixes offer a festive touch, elevating the dining experience into a true celebration of Mexican taste culture.

Many patrons rave about the attentive and friendly service, making each visit feel like a special occasion. Daija Fowler appreciated the quick service paired with a filling lunch special, while Amanda Ward and her family loved sampling an array of tacos from chicken to grilled shrimp, remarking on the deliciously seasoned esquite street corn side. Regulars like Carrie Chalfant highlight how accommodating the staff are to varying dietary needs, emphasizing both the restaurant’s warmth and versatility. Robert Cox, despite noting a slightly slow service once, declared his experience worthwhile due to the exceptional quality and vibrant flavors packed into each taco — truly some of the best around.

NuvoTaco also caters to those seeking convenient, take-home options with their popular NUVO TOGO selections, including a range of housemade salsas and fresh guacamole in pint sizes. Their dedication to using gluten-free corn tortillas and offering vegan and dairy-free sides ensures everyone finds something delicious to enjoy.

Whether you’re a local craving comfort food or a visitor searching for authentic Mexican vibes with a twist, NuvoTaco delivers an unforgettable feast that’s both fresh and full of heart. This spot is more than just a meal; it’s a flavorful journey characterized by bright, bold ingredients, and a genuine passion for Mexican cuisine served with genuine southern hospitality.

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Outdoor seating On-site services Takeaway Dine-in Delivery
Highlights
Fast service Great beer selection
Popular for
Lunch Dinner Solo dining
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Comfort food Healthy options Quick bite Small plates Spirits Vegetarian options
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating Table service
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual Trendy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Tourists Transgender safe space University students
Planning
Usually a wait Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Free parking lot
Pets
Dogs allowed outside

Opening Hours

  • Monday
    Closed
  • Tuesday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Wednesday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Thursday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Friday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Saturday
    11:00 AM - 09:00 PM
  • Sunday
    11:00 AM - 08:00 PM

Map & Directions

Visitor Reviews

  • Daija Fowler
    1 month ago

    This was my first time visiting NuvoTaco. I’ve always rode past, but never stopped for chow. I enjoyed the quick service & friendly staff. They ensured we had everything we needed. I ordered the $12 lunch special and it was filling.

  • Amanda Ward
    1 month ago

    Visiting my brother in Durham and he took us to Nuvo Taco. The food and service were excellent. A very casual and fun atmosphere, it was very busy while we were there. Between 3 people we had tacos with chicken, garlic beef, chorizo, grilled shrimp, and pork. We had a side of esquite street corn which was super delicious.

  • Lisa Lashaye
    2 month ago

    First Time Visit, Food & drinks was so very good, nice atmosphere! Will be back.

  • Robert Cox
    2 month ago

    Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5) NavoTaco in Durham is a must-visit if you’re looking for excellent food and a laid-back atmosphere. While the service was a bit slow during my visit, the wait was absolutely worth it. The quality of the food more than made up for the slight delay. Each dish was packed with fresh flavors, and the tacos were some of the best I’ve ever had. You can tell they put care into the preparation and ingredients. The variety on the menu allowed me to try a few different items, and everything was delicious. The tacos were perfectly seasoned, and the portion sizes were just right. Whether you’re in the mood for classic options or something a bit more adventurous, NavoTaco does not disappoint. The overall experience was one of the best I’ve had in the Durham area. The food was outstanding, and the casual, relaxed vibe made it a great spot to enjoy a meal. If you’re in the area, I highly recommend giving NavoTaco a try—it’s definitely worth it!!!

  • Carrie Chalfant
    2 month ago

    Have I not reviewed NuvoTaco yet?? Best Mexican food in Durham. My family and I love this place and have probably been a few dozen times. We take every visitor from out of town here. We have a few different diet restrictions and they are so accommodating. Food is fabulous, quick, and affordable. Incredibly convenient to order from our table, although you can order with a person as well. Approachable and adorable atmosphere. Good for a casual date or a family outing. We always sit at their outdoor seating, which has fans and heaters depending on the season. At the table in this photo, you could fit 8 people. Hard to find parking, but there is a reason.

  • Del Rosario
    3 month ago

    Food and drinks, we really good.. the agua de Jamaica and Tamarind were insanely good, the chips and salsa was great (they will refill your salsa as soon as it’s low),the food absolutely delicious. No waiting time and the waiter was nice and polite. Give it a try and

  • Megan Amelang
    3 month ago

    I placed a last minute big order for our teams Christmas lunch and they were extra accommodating and helped us out. They got the food together fast and very organized, even had tags for all of the food. Everything was delicious. Will definitely be back and highly recommend! Thank you all so much!!

  • D Nickelson
    3 month ago

    We've been coming here for several years, starting back when it was NanaTaco. Overall the food is very good. Margaritas are excellent. Stick with the afterburn marg and you can't go wrong. This visit we had garlic beef burritos and nachos. The garlic beef had great flavor, good cut of meat. They aren't as large as they used to be, but still good. The cucumber salsa was very refreshing with the nachos. I do miss the different salsas and and sides they used to have which were amazing! The ordering system is all electronic which I'm sure some love, but I like to order in person to be able to ask questions and make any changes needed. The place has a nice relaxed atmosphere, fun for friends or just hanging out any say of the week. Can't go wrong here.

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