If you like to stay out late, stop by Cosmic Cantina (open until 4 a.m.), where burritos and quesadillas satisfy cravings anytime. Climb the iconic staircase and find filling burritos for less than $10, plus nachos, tacos and more. They also have a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to enjoy inside or on the outdoor patio.
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Hours:
Monday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM Friday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 AM
In Durham's bustling food scene, atop an unassuming staircase on Perry Street, sits Cosmic Cantina, where interplanetary décor meets earthbound Mexican cuisine that defies both gravity and expectations, especially after midnight.
The establishment's vibrant menu board, adorned with planets, stars, and an alien mascot clutching fresh produce, establishes a playful tone that belies the seriousness with which they approach their craft. While the proclamation of serving "the best Mexican food on the planet" might seem hyperbolic, it's a claim the kitchen backs with surprising conviction.
The burrito – their flagship offering – arrives swaddled in foil like a tiny spacecraft. Unwrapped, it reveals a thoughtfully constructed interior: properly seasoned pinto beans, fluffy rice, and meats prepared with unexpected care. At under $14, it delivers sustenance without astronomical pricing, making it a cornerstone of Durham's late-night dining cosmos.
The dining room's ambiance marries utilitarian charm with cosmic whimsy. Exposed brick walls meet wooden ceiling panels while bistro chairs with blue-and-white woven seats invite patrons to linger. Decorative Mexican tiles line the counter, creating an eclectic backdrop for the restaurant's late-night theater.
Open until 4 a.m., Cosmic Cantina cultivates a devoted following among students and night owls. The establishment's stubborn inaccessibility – visible in the staircase one must climb to enter – may limit its clientele but enhances its cult status. This is democratic dining with a celestial twist, where burritos transcend their humble ingredients to become something greater than the sum of their parts.
Whether Cosmic Cantina truly serves the best Mexican food in the universe remains debatable, but in Durham's nocturnal firmament, it shines with peculiar, persistent brightness, a reliable beacon for the hungry wanderer seeking sustenance or simply late night carbs under the stars.
Shon Joyner
Mar 28, 2025
5
I live in Greenville, NC and I am battling Breast Cancer. I go to the doctors in Durham, NC. Whenever, I come to Cosmic Cantina I am always greeted with kindness. The food is always Amazing. I would rate this restaurant a 10/10. I wish there was one in Greenville, NC or at least closer than Durham. I would come more often. I love the freshness of the food and the chips are made there fresh so they are always fresh also. If you want authentic Mexican food this is the place to go. You will not be disappointed.
Jeremy Lott
Feb 12, 2025
4
Food was good, nothing to rave about. Ordered a pitcher of margarita but after about 15 minutes they asked for the pitcher back because they only have 2 of them, even though we still had some left in it. Also nothing really cosmic about the atmosphere. I would go back if friends wanted to, but would choose other places in the area otherwise.
BRIAN MASSENGILL
Feb 2, 2025
5
Always great. My favorite Dive Bar in the word. Lines always long so be patient. With all due respect, it's such a cool "Dukie Bar"!
*Update-over the years they have done some needed remodeling and updating. One thing that is needed is a dedicated pickup area for call ahead/online orders. Sometimes the line is long and it is not easy to pass everyone to pick up your Togo/online order.
We will definitely come back.
Bridget Jackson
Nov 12, 2024
5
The food was great, especially for late night. Service was great, but make sure you check that receipt because I was about to put cash in the tip jar before I noticed that they had already charged me $5.15 for a tip without saying anything or posting about automatic tips charges (definitely would've given them extra cash but I would also like to be notified of what I am being charged..so I decided against it for that reason)
My family and friends will definitely be back next time we're in town.
The outside patio is cute, too 😍
Robert McSorley Jr
Oct 24, 2024
5
I got a Giant chicken burrito and queso with chips. This did not disappoint and the Giant is not joking, this easily was a pound burrito and I will be back for another round!
Aaron Weber
Oct 8, 2024
5
This is a Durham staple! I grew up going here with friends after late nights and it has stood the test of time. The chimichangas are unmatched but prepare to be very full! Be sure to get guac added as well!
S Morris
Sep 20, 2024
5
Ive been coming to this cosmic cantina for over 22 years. They have renovated the place and its very clean and fantastic inside. Great burritos, chimichangas, and more. Wonderful "hole in the wall" that is sure to please your cravings for Delicious food!
Jeff Hsu
Sep 18, 2024
5
It’s the only place open after 10pm on a week night. Fresh and fast. But don’t get the nachos if you expect melted cheese. It’s like an inside out burrito with chips.
Brooks Wagstaff
Sep 18, 2024
3
A solid 3.5. I like the atmosphere, very grungy. Reminded me of a Portland spot.
This is good Mexican food, not great. The margaritas are sub-standard IMO. Watered down and poorly mixed.
What Cosmic Cantina lacks in food and drink is made up for in vibe. Wouldn’t go out of my way to revisit.
angela Cherry
Sep 8, 2024
5
This place stays open til 4am. Even though they were out of some ingredients my nachos were great. It was the grilled chicken for me. I could have just ate the chicken by itself. Next time I just want a plate of their grilled chicken by it's self...
Matt Hukill
Aug 31, 2024
5
Love this place! Best Mexican food in town.
Jeremy LeCrone
Aug 11, 2024
5
Great place to get quality burritos at a beyond fair price. I love their old school veggie burrito. Flavorful and filling at $4. It's a great deal. Comes with chips and salsa on the side as well. I'll come back here every time I'm in town.
Regi Taylor
Jun 25, 2024
5
I've had this restaurant on my list of places to visit for months and finally got by there. It was initially difficult to locate due to the small sign that hangs over the entrance door. Once located, I entered and realized I had to go upstairs to a second floor. The menu selections are many, and it was difficult to make a decision.
I finally made a choice for a to-go burrito. It was ready in minutes, and I was eager to taste my selection, which was the chorizo burrito.
Let's just say that there was so much flavor in that sandwich that it was driving my taste buds wild! This will definitely be my place for burritos in the future. The customer service was fast and excellent. Big plus is the prices are very reasonable.
