Zweli's

their peri peri shrimp skewers were pretty good and the cabbage was amazing (though I'm easy to please when it comes to cabbage, so take that as you will) but wasn't a huge fan of other dishes. everything was good but not great. peanut butter sauce was a little too sweet in my opinion and they really drowned the collards in it. definitely worth a try if you're coming through the area but I just can't justify the price enough to want to come back.

This location seems to have undergone a very nice remodel. The old photos don't look anything like what it looks like now, it's much nicer. The staff was super friendly and helped us navigate the menu (which is minimal which I like). They said that in order to foster the tradition of family style sharing, you can pick two sides to be "bottomless" for the whole table. I like the idea of not just saying the food should be shared around the table, but actually helping make that happen by providing bottomless sides. Now to the food - what an experience!! I haven't had food like this before, and was instantly in love with each thing I tried. This is a must visit for anyone who wants to expand their tastes. Located just a few blocks from the bus station there's easy access. We hopped on the bus station near our house and took it to the terminal (I love Durham's free bus system, it's so easy) and then walked a few minutes to Zweli's. I recommend this restaurant for anyone who wants a unique experience and wants to support a great local restaurant doing things right!

The food was fantastic. I was a little shy on the goat, but I was very surprised. The food was amazing. You must have the plantains also. The service was great also. They made you feel wanted and were happy you were there. Thank You all. Oh by the way they do add on the tip automaticly with an option to tip more when you pay.

There were great vibes from the moment we entered the space. Quick seating, engaging server who explained the inspiration behind the restaurant, and exciting menu options all contributed to an overall excellent experience. And dinner was delicious. Favorite items included the oxtails, curried cabbage, beef samosas, jollaf rice, and 'The Mayor' signature bourbon drink.

Step into Zwelis, the South African gem nestled in Durham’s Brightleaf Square, and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported straight to a vibrant Johannesburg eatery. The aesthetics are nothing short of stunning – think warm hues, rustic charm, and a dash of African flair that makes the entire dining experience feel like a mini-vacation. The location itself is excellent, boasting plenty of room for gatherings big and small. Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the food. The rotisserie chicken at Zwelis is, hands down, the best-seasoned bird I’ve ever had the pleasure of devouring. Each bite is a symphony of spices, making it clear that the chefs here know their craft. While the prices might seem a tad high for the portions, the taste more than makes up for it. You’re not just paying for a meal; you’re paying for an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and leaves you craving more. So, if you’re in Durham and looking for a place that offers both a feast for the eyes and the palate, Zwelis is your go-to spot. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

I had my first experience with Zimbabwean cuisine recently. The vegan options were clearly marked on the menu, which was a plus, and the portion sizes were satisfying. However, the food itself was just okay—nothing that really stood out. I might consider coming back if I were in a pinch, but it's not a place that left a lasting impression.

First time there and the location was partially big. I recommend going Tuesday at lunch its not crowded then and you are sure to be served good. We ordered the ox tails, sausage, and Beef Samosas (comes with a ranch or mayonnaise based sauce really couldn't tell which one it was). With a side of Jolla fries and Chakalaka. The jello price in my opinion was not spicy enough. I had to request a a spicy piri to put in it to get it to be spicy worthy. Some the entires are kinda on the pricy side so I wouldn't recommend eating here all the time but would say it is a good date night space. P.S if you take out its a little cheaper.

This was a nice place for authentic African cuisine. The atmosphere was nice and intimate and the service didn't disappoint. The oxtails were tender with a nice Au jus-like broth. You must try the Veggie Samosas, Piri Piri Chips and Plantains.

The food was great. I really enjoyed the piri piri chicken. The curry cabbage had a good flavor.

First time having Zimbabwean food and it did not disappoint! We ordered beef samosas for appetizers and oxtail, goat stew, dovi shrimp, and piri piri chicken for entrees and all were really good! The rice and dessert donuts felt like they were missing something and our server wasn't that attentive to us. The interior was nice though!

I REALLY wanted to support and like this place but most of it just fell below the mark. The presentation and atmosphere are beautiful but the food leaves MUCH to be desired. I'm use to African food having spice, kick and full of flavor. The jallof rice was bland dry and hard. There was no flavor whatsoever almost as if someone just spritz color on top of some day old left out to dry rice. The chicken skin was nice and flavorful but the chicken underneath bland. Found myself rubbing the meet on the skin to try and get some flavor to no avail. My wife had the tofu. She didn't even bother to bring it back home and ate half a piece of one. There's no hot sauce. No seasoning on the tables. The collard greens are on. We got a sample but because the restaurant had no hot sauce we opted out of them but that was a mistake because the cabbage was hard and bland as well. The food seems to be catered for people with bland pallets. I wasn't impressed. The "bill" came which is just the waiter with a screen never showed what I purchased or a breakdown so I have no idea why I paid $60 for this with a discount. The gratuity is automatically included and I'm fine with that but the blurb on the menu makes it seem like my obligation to pay it to ensure they have a living wage. Where is the owners responsibility to ensure they have a living wage? My wife waited 25 min for her Pepsi to come and had to ask for it. I won't return.

I had great customer service. The food was seasoned very well ,very good size portions, and I really appreciated the atmosphere.