Aaktun Coffee + Bar in Clayton

If you're on the hunt for local restaurants near Clayton or Raleigh that offer more than just a bite to eat, let us introduce you to Aaktun Coffee + Bar - an unexpected twist on your everyday café that effortlessly transforms into a moody, Tulum-meets-Tiki dinner escape once the sun goes down.

Tucked away in downtown Clayton, Aaktun is the kind of spot you accidentally stumble into once… and then immediately want to tell all your friends about. It’s the latest concept from two-time James Beard semifinalist Oscar Diaz and the team at Mezcalito Group Inc., so you know it’s going to be something special.

Coffee, Breakfast, and Serious Comfort Food Vibes

By day, Aaktun welcomes you with a modern, chill café setting and the breakfast menu? Think comfort food meets culinary creativity.

Start your day with one of their famous Sandos—like the spicy and satisfying Chorizo Papi Sando (scrambled eggs, house chorizo, escabeche carrots, and hot sauce) or go all in with the Breky Burger Combo that comes with tater tots and all the breakfast-y burger fixings your heart desires.

Speaking of tots, don’t sleep on the Totchos—yep, tater tot nachos. The Supreme Totchos come piled high with scrambled eggs, bacon, chorizo, beef patty, avocado, and hot sauce. It’s the kind of over-the-top breakfast that somehow still feels thoughtful and balanced. This is one of my favorites! And the Berry French Toast…to die for.

Come Back for Lunch – It’s a Can’t-Miss!

From Green Curried Chicken to Short Rib Tacos, the lunch options are far from standard. We’re also eyeing the Tempura Fish Tacos and the craveable Lomo Saltado (a nod to traditional Peruvian stir-fry with marinated steak).

The small plates are perfect for sharing—or hoarding, no judgment. Think Coconut Shrimp, Fried Calamari, and even Curried Mussels in green coconut curry and Thai basil. It’s a flavor adventure that you can casually enjoy in a cozy booth or while sipping on something fun from the bar.

Speaking of Sips…

At night, Aaktun turns down the lights and dials up the escapism. Walk through a dim hallway to the intimate dining room and you’ll feel like you’ve landed somewhere between a jungle hideaway and an upscale tropical lounge.

This is where the Tiki-inspired cocktails take the spotlight. They're fun, colorful, and totally unique, even the cocktail glasses are made to match the bold creativity of the food menu. Whether you're into fruity, spicy, or smoky flavors, there's something that'll make your tastebuds dance.

Save Room for Dessert

If sweets are your thing, Aaktun delivers here too. Try the Goat Cheese Cheesecake (just the right amount of tangy and creamy), or the Minis Churronas for a shareable sugar rush. They also serve homemade ice cream if you just want to keep it cool and simple.

Aaktun: Your New Favorite Day-to-Night Spot

Whether you're looking for a laid-back breakfast spot, a fun place to grab lunch, or a tucked-away dinner destination near Raleigh, Aaktun Coffee + Bar in Clayton is worth the short drive. With its creative menu, bold flavors, and welcoming vibe, it's quickly becoming one of the best local restaurants in the area.

So next time someone asks where to eat near Clayton, now you know: Go to Aaktun. Come hungry. Stay a while. Show them a Little Local Love.

Looking for more local favorites in the greater Raleigh area? Keep following along as we uncover the best hidden gems—from cozy cafés to unforgettable dinner spots.