Aaktun Coffee, Restaurant and Bar

Chris Gordon a month ago

Ciara was our server and they were fantastic with suggestions and service. Everything we had was delicious. The snapper ceviche was to die for and the steak and salmon dishes were perfect! I'll also note it was a birthday celebration and Ciara made it extra special for the two birthdays celebrated. We will be back!

Liz Thomas 2 months ago

I’ve lived in Durham for 40+ years, and even with all the growth downtown, I still manage to stumble across places I’ve somehow driven past a thousand times. Akktun is one of those spots - an unassuming black‑brick building with chalkboard signs that make it look like just a coffee bar. After hearing people rave about it (near and far), we finally decided to check out the restaurant side of things, because it’s clearly more than a place to grab a latte. We showed up a little after 5 on a Wednesday and were immediately struck by the vibe-warm colors, great lighting, and an ambience that feels intentional without trying too hard. It’s the kind of place where you could walk in wearing sweats or sequins and no one would blink. Honestly, it gave me a little “hidden Manhattan spot” energy, but without the pretentiousness or the price tag that usually comes with that. Now, the food. We tried a spread: chicken skewers, the salmon‑shrimp‑rice dish, fried fish tacos, cocktails, coffees, and cheesecake. Everything hit. Not one weak link. We travel a lot and love a good dining experience, but it’s rare to find a place that nails good service, good drinks, good food, and good ambience all at

Julio Fernandez 4 months ago

Great service and excellent food. Went here with my wife before a show at the DPAC and we really enjoyed it the food was delicious. We shared the chicken skewers, papaya salad, and the steak. It was more than enough to fill us up. They have a nice selection of cocktails and wine Whitney, our server provided some excellent recommendations and was very attentive and had a great personality. We definitely will be back and would suggest that you give this restaurant a try.

Liz Templeton 5 months ago

Adding to my list of Best of Bull City, this place delivers on all fronts. The food was incredible and beautifully dished, the servers were on-point, and the photos really don't do the atmosphere justice. The whole experience is seamless and certainly among the finest Durham had to offer.

Malachi Woodard 5 months ago

Presentation, atmosphere, quality and depth of flavor; all things you can expect at Aaktun AND MORE. I think our empty plates speak for themselves. I had such an amazing experience for my first time, we decided to come back for coffee the next day! When you walk in you quickly realize the vibe; the decor is really on point with dim lighting and vibrant decor. There was also a live DJ which is pretty unique. All of the servers were super sweet and attentive. It did feel like our table was very close to the folks sitting next to us, but that was my only qualm. Awesome place if you’re looking for breakfast/brunch, date night, or going out with friends.