"After years of planning and delays, the newly opened Mala Pata was one of Raleigh’s most anticipated restaurants—and it quickly delivered. This pan-Latin American spot with heavy influences from southern Mexico is the brainchild of a supergroup of local restaurant owners and vets from Centro, Ex Voto, and Locals Seafood. Bring a small group of friends and hit the adjoining Peyote minibar beforehand. Mala Pata’s cheesy Colombian buñuelos are a must-order, as are the lechoncito de oro and the butterflied, grilled striped seabass served with salsa verde and salsa roja, each covering a half. photo credit: Forrest Mason photo credit: Forrest Mason photo credit: Forrest Mason photo credit: Forrest Mason photo credit: Forrest Mason Pause Unmute" - Eric Ginsburg