M Pocha

M Pocha is a great spot in Durham with really good food and a fun, lively vibe. The shrimp bread was excellent and a must-order. We also had the spicy pork buns and the drunken noodle, and everything tasted fresh and well made. The space is clean but tight, service was friendly and fast, and the atmosphere had a good buzz.

New favorite in Durham! Everything we ordered was excellent, including the drinks/wine. Service was very attentive and friendly. Everything made to order. Keep in mind it is a very small space, but nice atmosphere. 100% will be back!

M Pocha transforms a quaint Durham corner into a warm, buzzing izakaya that feels effortlessly alive! The evening unfolds through standout small plates, delicate Crab Shumai, deeply savory Beef Dumplings, crisp Chicken Karaage, and the truly otherworldly Shrimp Toast that demands a second order midway through the first. The mains keep the rhythm just right, from bold, aromatic Drunken Noodles to a hearty, soul‑hugging Budae Jjigae and a beautifully balanced Nasi Goreng. But Pocha’s magic is more than flavor; It’s how it gathers people. The food, the laughter, the strangers‑turned‑tablemates, it didn’t just impress us; It brought us together!

The food was a bit mediocre unfortunately. We expected a lot more. The tofu in the noodles we ordered was mushy and so bland. As other reviewers mentioned as well, seating was limited and a bit awkward. The deconstructed boa buns were definitely an interesting concept.. i’m not really sure what the really point of it is. But anyways the chicken that came with the boa buns was good, it definitely would have been better with a sweet aspect included like honey.

Their food has bold flavors and is very yummy. It's a tight venue and if you have a shell fish allergy I don't recommend it. The spicy pork buns are soooo good and the rice with the shrimp (I forget what it's called).