Cuya Cocina Latina, located in the vibrant heart of Raleigh, offers a delightful culinary journey through Latin American flavors. Patrons rave about the Ceviche Del Dia, savoring its freshness, while the charred pulpo is celebrated for its tender and delicious preparation. Diners report an upbeat atmosphere, punctuated by attentive service, with reviews highlighting how the staff goes above and beyond, including visits from the chef himself.
The restaurant’s menu impresses with small plates that pack an unexpected punch, including the acclaimed Camarones al ajillo and beautifully dressed tamales de pimento. One reviewer noted how every bite bursts with flavor—a testament to the skillful culinary inputs. Customers also appreciate the ample seating, both indoor and outdoor, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the street view while indulging in vibrant dishes.
Signature drinks, like the passion fruit margarita, add to the experience, complementing the innovative food offerings. Cuya Cocina Latina is more than just a meal; it’s a feast for the senses, where each dish is crafted with passion. Reservations are highly recommended, as the popularity of this hidden gem continues to grow.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
From the business
Identifies as Latino-owned
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves happy-hour drinks
Serves happy-hour food
Serves small plates
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs available
Parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Photos
Reviews For Cuya Cocina Latina
Michael Hendricks
Jun 15,2025
Ceviche Del Dia was amazing. Charred pulpo (octopus) was delicious. The empanadas de Camaron (shrimp) was good. Very attentive service. Didn’t have to call anyone over. Even the chef came out to greet us. Very upbeat atmosphere. Passion fruit margarita was delicious. Very clean
Randal Batenhorst
Jun 7,2025
Had to satisfy my ceviche craving. Went to the former Cortex on South Glenwood, now CUYA Cocina Latina. The tamal was incredible. The masa was top notch.
E. Pat
May 22,2025
Cuya has a warm fresh vibe. It's a small plate kitchen that packs alot of unexpected flavor combinations. They have in and outside seating. You can enjoy the street view or sit inside and take it all in. There are so many options, PLEASE do yourself a favor and look at the menu bc it you dont your table will be full of soo many plates. Camarones al ajillo butter garlic pan-seared... 10/10. The plantain tostones A Tamales de Pimento It was beautifully dressed. The tamales was to soft for my liking. The filling was fresh and soulful. Charred cabbage was an experience. The flavors popped with each bite. A . Ceviche del Dia so fresh. A Prepare for finding parking. Make a reservation. Review the menu
Heather Oppor
May 21,2025
Cute restaurant with outdoor seating almost as large as the indoor area. We made reservations - a smart move as it filled up fast on a Sunday night. They had a few oyster varieties -all lovely. The tomato salad and tiradito were a nice app with the oysters for our table of four. The scallops were well cooked and the corn and beans in the dish were amazing. We had the burger as well and we were blown away by how good it was. Kind of like a smash burger, fresh toppings and amazing burger sauce. The drinks were fun, the food was fab. Would love to return to try more of the menu.
Douglas Durkin
Apr 30,2025
Fabulous and diverse Latin American dishes. Octopus was tender and the best preparation I have ever had including octopus in Portugal. Mexican tamale was an excellent vegetarian selection. Dishes all featured a well balanced blend of multiple flavors. Gianna is an outstanding ambassador of the restaurant, knowledgeable in all the dishes, providing delightful recommendations with a warm and friendly attitude. Cuya Cocina is a true gem!
Marlohe Muse
Apr 8,2025
Fun, swanky, chic, popular, very trendy fish restaurant located on the strip with tons of entertainment nearby. The food is incredible. The ambience is exquisite. The service was wonderful. We tasted the oysters from the area. So good and so diverse in flavor. We ended up eating here twice It was so good. The first night we grabbed a few snacks after drinking at some of the nearby bars. The bread and weed butter is off the charts delicious. We had some butter beans that were divine. We also grabbed a pineapple upside down rum cake with vanilla ice cream that was incredible. The next night we experimented more with what was on the menu. We had some snapper that was incredible. Great place if you want to do a bunch of small dishes and share. Highly recommend
Brandon Ornelas
Apr 7,2025
Very well put together meals, ambience was beautiful on the outdoor patio. Service was great with the staff being attentive and welcoming. Food was to die for as well, grits were my favorite personally and definitely recommend the huevos rancheros.
Giohannie Morales
Apr 7,2025
20/10 Experience – Absolutely Exceptional! From the moment we walked in, everything about this restaurant exceeded our expectations. The ambiance was warm and inviting, setting the perfect tone for what turned out to be an unforgettable dining experience. The food? Absolutely exquisite. Every dish was a masterpiece—beautifully presented, perfectly cooked, and bursting with flavor. You can tell that each ingredient is chosen with care and every plate crafted with passion. But what truly made the evening special was the service. The staff was beyond attentive—friendly, professional, and genuinely invested in making sure we had the best time. Their recommendations were spot-on, and their attention to detail was unmatched. This place is a rare gem. If I could give it more than five stars, I would. Easily a 20/10. Can’t wait to come back!
Reviews For Cuya Cocina Latina