Why Locals Love Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas
Nestled in the heart of downtown Durham, Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas is a vibrant South American restaurant that effortlessly marries bold flavors with a welcoming atmosphere. From the moment you step inside their cozy space on West Main Street, you’re transported into a culinary journey that celebrates the diversity and richness of Latin American cuisine.
Their menu is an inspired blend of traditional and contemporary dishes, with a spotlight on perfectly seasoned rotisserie meats and a variety of handcrafted empanadas. Standouts include the pulled chicken and pork carnitas empanadas, each bursting with tender, juicy fillings wrapped in delicately flaky pastry. The quinoa and potato empanadas offer delightful vegetarian options, equally satisfying in their hearty textures and vibrant flavors.
One cannot visit without trying the signature combinations that creatively pair empanadas with sides like crisp, golden yuka fries, comforting black beans with coconut rice, and refreshing kale slaw. The maduros, softened plantains drizzled with cinnamon crème fraîche, offer a perfect finishing touch, marrying sweetness and spice in each bite. For larger groups, the Family Meal featuring slow-cooked Chili-Braised Beef Brisket or Blackened Pulled Chicken with two sides creates a shared feast that’s both satisfying and memorable.
Beyond the food, Luna’s atmosphere strikes a rare balance: it’s casual enough for a relaxed weeknight dinner yet intimate and polished enough to celebrate special occasions. Guests rave about the warm and attentive service, often mentioning the stellar hospitality from staff who truly make you feel like part of the Luna family.
Customers like Sarah Melanie praise the perfectly cooked pulled brisket and flavorful coconut rice, while Taylor Gay highlights the surprisingly well-seasoned kale and house-made agua frescas that brighten the palate. Keith Groves notably describes Luna as a “hidden gem,” lauding not only the beautifully plated dishes but also the expertly crafted cocktails served at the bar.
Whether you’re sneaking in a quick takeout meal, gathering with friends for an indulgent dinner, or looking to discover a new favorite spot in Durham’s bustling dining scene, Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas promises an authentic taste experience shaped by passion, skill, and genuine hospitality. It’s not just dining—it’s a heartfelt celebration of South American flavors made approachable and unforgettable.
See the Space & Food
What Makes This Place Friendly
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Fast service
- Great beer selection
- Great cocktails
- Great dessert
- Great wine list
- Serves local specialty
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Coffee
- Comfort food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Spirits
- Vegan options
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
- Bar on site
- Toilet
- Casual
- Cosy
- Trendy
- Groups
- Locals
- Tourists
- University students
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
- Free of charge street parking
- Paid street parking
Real Reviews from the Community
- Mar 31, 2026
I really enjoyed my meal at Luna's. They offer a very intriguing menu that crosses several types of Latin American cuisine. I ordered the chili-braised pulled brisket, which was cooked to perfection. I also adored the coconut rice and beans. The collard greens were good, but lacking in spice and instead had a very strong apple cider vinegar taste. My only disappointment was the pisco sour which tasted OK, but looked very unappealing. My sister also tried the sangria, which oddly had a ton of club soda in it. We came in on a Thursday evening for dinner, and the place wasn't too crowded. The tables aren't really well suited for groups larger than four, and the seating isn't the most comfortable. Although the service was good and fast, we did run into an issue with being overcharged via the QR code payment process.
- Mar 8, 2026
Luna is in my top restaurants in the triangle. The food is consistently wonderful, service is just right, and somehow it is casual enough for a weeknight takeout but also special enough for a birthday dinner.
- Feb 12, 2026
Do NOT sleep on pass up on this hidden gem, tucked in on West Main Street, downtown Durham. Mauro takes the best care of customers seated at the bar, listens to them and makes some of the best recommendations for both dining and drinks. The food is absolutely delicious and plated like it’s a Michelin Star restaurant. The drinks are perfectly crafted and hit the spot. This is a spot where we’ll be sure to pop into anytime we’re in town.
- Feb 4, 2026
Staff was kind and wonderful. They are a reservations place and fit us in as walk ins on a Saturday night. Delicious empanadas and surprisingly seasoned kale. We loved the agua frescas
- Jan 29, 2026
I went to Luna yesterday and really enjoyed my experience. I ordered the quarter white with kale slaw and Idaho fries and the chicken was so juicy and tender. Our server was also very friendly and attentive which made the experience even better. The ambience of the restaurant was nice, calm, and comfortable. I would definitely go back!
- Jan 19, 2026
This time up on the plate was Luna's Restaurant. Highlighted by their sensational Peruvian chicken, "Pollo a la Brasa." This wasn't just any rotisserie chicken; it was a masterclass in flavor—perfectly marinated, incredibly juicy with a delightful smoky char, and wonderfully crisp skin. The accompanying sides of Spicy bacon collards and Black bean coconut rice were inspired choices, and the vibrant Aji Verde and zesty Aji Amarillo sauces elevated every bite to a new level of culinary enjoyment. Don't miss the chance to try one of their expertly crafted Strawberry or Mango Mojitos from the bar. Luna's offers ample indoor and bar seating, along with charming sidewalk options, all within a short walk of public parking. Whether you're seeking a cozy date night or a lively family dinner, Luna's provides an excellent dining experience. Definitely on the next date night out in Durham. Great Job Luna’s
- Dec 31, 2025
This is exactly the empanada I’ve always wanted!!! I got a chicken and a vegetarian (Yukon gold) empanada with the garlic kale side and every single bite was delicious. We had a reservation, but I think we would have been fine without it. The inside is so cool and relaxing, plus our server, Noah, was super quick and friendly! We will definitely be back, would be a great place to bring out of town guests to explore Durham!
- Dec 29, 2025
I was exploring downtown Durham and looking for a lunch spot when I came across Luna. I tried two of their excellent cocktails and opted for the pork empanada with two sides. I chose the coconut beans and rice along with the kale slaw. Both were excellent and the rice was perfectly cooked.