La Buena Vida - Durham

Reviews

• YL

  Yer Lee

  Nov 12, 2025
  4.0
  Our hotel was next door and every night we came back from our day excursions, the lot was always full. The first night we arrived, it was crackin' LOL so we had to check it out for ourselves. The vibe is for folks who love the nightlife. The food wasn't the best or the worst. The Birria wasn't Birria. The ceviche was too heavy on the lime, but with a bite of the chicharrone, it balanced, though I didn't like the spicy mayo on the chicharrone. The Enchiladas was good and so were the nachos. Love the hearty crunch of the tortilla chips.
• TT

  T

  Nov 9, 2025
  1.0
  Worst birthday experience, Cuba waiter is the worst waiter that I have ever had in my life, he was rude, ignored us and did not come to check to see if we needed anything. Food was cold, service was trash, food orders were mixed up. Spouse had to wait 15 miutes to receive the tortillas that came with his meal asked for extra plates and silverware never received, had to get the manager Raul who was receptive but based upon the bad experience we received and the complaints he did take off the gratuity after it was suggested however the overall experience received did not make up for my guests and my sons birthday dinner and I feel like more should have been done as this was the worst customer service experience.
• SP

  Sean Peyton

  Nov 8, 2025
  3.0
  The atmosphere was amazing!! The staff put on multiple interactive shows that electrified the whole place and the drum player was by far the highlight of the night. Unfortunately, that was the only good thing about this place. The drinks were really bad - they offered to remake the same drink three times because they wouldn't substitute it or take it off the bill, even though it was still full, minus the initial sip. The service was inconsistent and uninviting, and the food was mediocre at best.
• AA

  Ashley

  Oct 24, 2025
  5.0
  La Vida Buena is such a gem here in Durham! The food is always full of flavor, the atmosphere is lively and inviting, and the drinks are out of this world — thanks to Marlene! She’s one of those rare bartenders who completely transforms your experience. Every time I come in, she’s friendly, upbeat, and genuinely happy to see everyone. Her smile sets the tone for the whole night. Marlene has a real gift behind the bar. She makes amazing cocktails, mixes flavors perfectly, and somehow remembers exactly what each guest likes. You can tell she takes real pride in her work, and that care shows in every drink she serves. Whether you’re trying something new or sticking to your usual, she always makes it just right. What really stands out is how much she cares about people. She doesn’t just serve drinks — she connects with customers, makes them laugh, and creates such a positive vibe that you can’t help but want to stay longer. Marlene makes everyone feel like part of the family, and that’s what makes La Vida Buena such a special place. If you’re looking for great food, top-notch drinks, and even better company, this is the place to be. Marlene is truly one of a kind — she makes every visit memorable and every night feel like a celebration!
• AC

  ashley corazao

  Oct 24, 2025
  5.0
  La Vida Buena is one of my absolute favorite places in Durham, and a huge part of that is because of Marlene! She’s an incredible bartender and truly the heart of the place. From the moment you sit down at the bar, she makes you feel welcome, remembered, and appreciated. She has that rare mix of professionalism, kindness, and genuine warmth that makes every visit special. Every drink Marlene makes is spot-on — perfectly balanced, creative, and made with so much care. You can tell she knows her craft and loves what she does. Whether it’s a classic margarita, a fun new cocktail, or something she recommends, it’s always amazing. But beyond her skill, it’s her personality that really shines. She greets everyone with a smile, remembers your favorite drinks, and makes you feel like part of the La Vida Buena family. Marlene’s energy fills the whole restaurant. She’s upbeat, kind, and always checking in to make sure everyone’s having a great time. You can see how much customers adore her — it’s impossible not to! She’s not just a bartender; she’s what makes the whole experience feel so warm and genuine. If you’re in Durham and haven’t been to La Vida Buena yet, go! The food is incredible, the vibe is fun and friendly, and Marlene’s service takes it all to another level. She truly makes ‘La Vida Buena’ live up to its name — the good life!

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