X-Mark's "The Spot" - NuvoTaco

NuvoTaco has a special place in my heart. Mostly my stomach but definitely my heart as well. Located in Durham’s Rockwood neighborhood, this gem has been open since 2011. They serve fresh Mexican food with an American flair. It’s a quirky bohemian spot with nice indoor/outdoor seating, a friendly staff, great food and the best margarita’s that I’ve ever had.

You may have been familiar with it as NanaTaco founded by Scott Howell and Jennifer Gillie. Back in 2018 Howell sold his interest to his partner. The name changed in 2019 and Jennifer was quoted in the Raleigh News and Observer about the change saying, “You don’t normally rebrand a successful brand. But I wanted to identify to everyone there was a change.” What hasn’t changed is the awesome food and lovely staff.

During the pandemic, a lot of places were trying to figure out how they would continue to serve their customers. Jennifer and the Nuvo team made a pivot to curbside service quickly by turning to technology to make the ordering and point of contact as safe and seamless as anyone could. They have now opened the doors again to inside dining and have reopened for lunch. I find this to be a welcome change. G and I love dining on their patio and occasionally it’s fun to watch and provide commentary on people navigating the parking situation while traffic buzzes by on University Drive.

My GO-TO must have food item is the Nacho’s with pork butt. This is a meal big enough to split between 3-4 people as long as you don’t mind sharing. I also enjoy the fried shrimp tacos with the mango salsa and spicy aioli. They run specials from time to time and the one that always has my attention is the empanada’s. I am a sucker for doughy pockets filled with meats, veggies, cheese or all three!

?That said, the one thing I can’t live without is their margarita. I’ve had them all over the world and this is literally the best margarita I’ve ever had. It’s not sweet, it’s tart, it tastes like lime, did I say it’s not sweet. And it’s STRONG. It’s a no mess around kind of margarita. After 2, you know you want a third but aren’t always sure you should have it; do you know what I’m saying? G and I will go there some nights just for the Margarita. We have a sticky note that reads, “I need Margarita” and when we’ve had a bad day that person will pass it to the other to let them know where we’re going for dinner.

You can find them at 2512 University Drive in Durham Wednesday – Sunday or on the web at nuvotaco.com. Check them out on Instagram for updates and specials or just drool at the yummy photos.?