When it comes to upscale Mexican food in the Triangle, there are few restaurants that can compete with Jibarra in North Raleigh. Today, the owner Joel Ibarra announced that they will be packing up their suburban bags and relocating to Downtown Raleigh to occupy a space in the historic Depot building. Urbanites rejoice!

This is a great addition to the warehouse district and the Depot building in particular. The Depot has been mostly empty since November, after three bars opened and closed within months. With Ess Lounge, Humble Pie, Mosquito, White Collar Crime and The Pit all creating a vibrant night scene in the area, Jibarra will fit right in.

I have only eaten at Jibarra once and the food is excellent. The chef trained in Mexico City and brought a lot of recipes with him, including fabulous desserts (Falso Pastel de Vainilla con Sorbete!!!) and tapas. The tequila selection is one of the best in the Triangle.

Options for Mexican are few in Downtown, and the only other upscale Mexican restaurant is Dos Taquitos Centro. Dos Taquitos has a bit more funky atmosphere and cuisine, while Jibarra aims to be stylish in a sleek and minimal way. Dos Taquitos Centro does have affordable lunch, let’s hope Jibarra follows suit, although it does follow a pattern of upscale restaurants opening or relocating in downtown, including The Mint,Sono and Fins.

Jibarra will employ New City Design to construct their new space. The main problem with the North Raleigh space (other than its location) was the interior. It seemed quickly constructed and money was spent on high-end materials in a few areas, rather than the creating a well organized space. Hopefully, New City will do a better job with the Depot building, a perfect canvas to work with to create an upscale environment. Two spaces will remain in the Depot, I wonder what will be the next tenant to realize the potential of this location?

With the Raleigh Convention Center opening in September, Jibarra will add another restaurant in walking distance for visitors, as well as locals. Jibarra’s last day in service at the North Raleigh location will be August 3rd and the Depot location is expected to open early Fall 2008.

327 W Davie St
Raleigh, NC 27601 

Tue-Thu 5pm-10pm
Fri-Sat 5pm-11pm
Sun 5pm-9pm

Visit Jibarra's website