Enable JavaScript to run this app.
Skip to main content
OpenTable logo
  1. Home
  2. United States
  3. Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill
  4. Raleigh
  5. Raleigh
Cortez Seafood + Cocktail, Raleigh, NC

Cortez Seafood + Cocktail

4.8
4.8
612 Reviews
$30 and under
Seafood
If you can't find the date you are looking for here, please call or text the restaurant directly at 919.342.8227 as it may still be available through our central booking.

Reservation Cancellation Policy: As we are a small restaurant with limited seating, No Shows and Reservations cancelled with less than 12 hour notice may be subject to a charge of $20 per person.

The Cortez is a fresh seafood and small plates experience with a freshly kept selection of tropical cocktails that draw on our food memories, travels through the years, and Mexican-American heritage. James Beard Nominated Chef Oscar Diaz's menu is a reflection of his weekly walks through the farmer's market and the bounties brought in by our local fishermen. The beverage menu is rounded out with rotating craft beers and a curated wine list.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 26 times today

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Cuisines

    Seafood, Mexican, Tapas / Small Plates

  • Hours of operation

    Dinner Tue–Thu 5:00 pm–9:30 pm Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Happy Hour Tue–Sun 5:00 pm–6:00 pm Weekend Dinner Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm

  • Phone number

    (919) 342-8227

  • Payment options

    AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

  • Dress code

    Business Casual

  • Executive chef

    Chef Oscar Diaz

  • Neighborhood

    Raleigh

  • Parking details

    Turn into the alleyway marked by the Cat Mural and you will find a private lot in our rear side of the building. Additional parking can be found at the parking deck behind the Carolina Ale House and street parking all around Glenwood South. We are handicap accessible!

  • Additional

    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Popular dishes

What 612 people are saying

Overall ratings and reviews

Reviews can only be made by diners who have eaten at this restaurant

4.8
4.8 based on recent ratings
  • 4.9Food
  • 4.7Service
  • 4.7Ambience
  • 4.5Value

NoiseModerate

Loved For

  • Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill

    Best Food

  • Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill

    Innovative

  • Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill

    Hot spot

  • Raleigh / Durham / Chapel Hill

    Lively

  • Raleigh

    Best Overall

  • Raleigh

    Best Food

  • Raleigh

    Innovative

  • Raleigh

    Hot spot

  • Raleigh

    Lively

Sort by

  1. OpenTable Diner

    Richmond

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined 3 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    The food and drinks was great. The first visit was worth it will absolutely visit again.
  2. OpenTable Diner

    Orange County

    1 review

    3.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall3food4service1ambience3
    Pros: chefs were excellent and put their heart into it. They brought culture, trend and art to the cuisines. Cons: server was neglectful. Spent more time texting at the stand rather then focusing on her table (including us). We made the reservation noting it was my birthday and my 1st wedding anniversary. Reiterating this as a reminder to the hostess and server. They both smiled and said happy birthday. Table of 8 in front of us were also celebrating a birthday. Complimentary champagne and complimentary dessert was brought out for them. At first we just assumed that they ordered that but when we were at the end of our meal we asked if they did anything special for special occasions and the server hesitated and said yes we do dessert and champagne complimentary. I was a little confused why we weren’t told about this so I asked. She again hesitated and apologized and cared more about her tip then actually doing her job. We were going to order dessert and no problem paying for it, it was more of the neglect and lack of customer service provided by this server that created an unfortunate experience for us. Dress code was also not much of an enforcement as she was dressed more for a nightclub then a restaurant. To each there own but I’ll probably pass on this restaurant in the future.
  3. Spencer

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined 7 days ago

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My partner and I have visited Cortez on multiple occasions and it never disappoints. The food is delicious, drinks are creative, and service is excellent. It can be on the pricy side if you want a full meal and drinks, but it’s worth it.
  4. Gusg4k

    Cincinnati

    84 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    84 reviews

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We had a wonderful meal at Cortez Seafood, the drinks were amazing and very unique! We enjoyed oysters, mussels, Brussels sprouts, shrimp and ceviche- each one was awesome and our waitress Maddie was the best!!
  5. merrstew

    Raleigh

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 28, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great anniversary dinner. Delicious food and great service.
  6. WillT

    Raleigh

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Perfect date spot. Sit at the bar, you won’t regret it!
  7. OpenTable Diner

    Los Angeles

    4 reviews

    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Food was delicious, drinks were yummy and the wait staff was very nice but it was so cold inside
  8. quiannal

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Me and my friend had such an amazing time at Cortez Seafood. While a little pricey, you get what you pay for and the food was outstanding. Our waitstaff was also amazing!
  9. JennyW

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 24, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    My husband and I both thought it was one of the best meals and dining experience overall that we have had in a very long time. We will return as soon as possible!
  10. DrewF

    San Francisco

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on May 23, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    I think Cortez is one the best, if not THE best, restaurants in the RTP area. The dishes are so creative and always perfectly prepared and delicious. It's art and it's amazing.
  11. JeffM

    New York Area

    1 review

    4.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 19, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience4
    Great service and tasty food. We got three small plates and the gambas and ceviche were great. I wouldn’t recommend the potato appetizer, it was just ok.
  12. LawandaH

    Charlotte

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 19, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was delicious and seasoned to perfection. Cocktail was well crafted as well.
  13. neighborhood

    Raleigh

    5 reviews

    5.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience5
    The food was fantastic! We had a mix of six raw oysters, and then small plates of mussels and soft shell crab. We had to ask for more bread to get the last of the delicious sauces! Finished with coconut cake topped with mango-also amazing. Very nice outdoor seating that’s on Glenwood but wasn’t noisy and wall acts as a barrier. Great Mother’s Day dinner, thanks!
  14. PhilipM

    Chicago

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We couldn’t have a better time every time we go to Cortez. They accommodated us on my wife’s first Mother’s Day so we could bring our son in a stroller despite getting reservations indoors. Their food is great, cocktails are great and the vibe is just right.
  15. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Really really good food, cute decor and fun ambience
  16. Peter

    Raleigh

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on May 14, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Great service and food. The music was a bit loud for everyone to talk at a large table, but in fairness, I did not ask for it to be turned down.
  17. OpenTable Diner

    Raleigh

    12 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    12 reviews

    Dined on May 13, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Food was great like always and pleasant customer service.
  18. OpenTable Diner

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Delicious! Can’t wait to come back.
  19. OpenTable Diner

    Raleigh

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 12, 2023

    overall5food5service4ambience4
    Fancy Pants option in the oysters and/or tuna is an absolute must. Fantastic food. Where we were sitting (by the front door, speakers were too loud). Other than that (and not that big of a deal deal), fantastic experience and culinarily wonderful!
  20. OpenTable Diner

    San Francisco

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 10, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    We ordered a few small plates and one entree and shared it all. We liked every dish! The flavors were great, all the dishes were balanced, and everything was seasoned well. I even thought our bill was a reasonable price too. We would come back here in a heartbeat.
  21. MattT

    Raleigh

    9 reviews

    vip
    4.0

    9 reviews

    Dined on May 9, 2023

    overall4food5service4ambience3
    Outstanding food. Good service from a new server.
  22. NancyP

    Central Coast

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 9, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Everything we ordered (and it was a lot!) was beautifully prepared, presented and fresh. Oysters, octopus and shrimp stood out, and do yourself a favor and finish with the churros.
  23. OpenTable Diner

    Denver

    4 reviews

    vip
    5.0

    4 reviews

    Dined on May 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Great food and cocktails. Service was also wonderful.
  24. ToddH

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on May 6, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food, the staff were all top notch and made our dining experience! Everyone around us were having a great time as well. Thank you!
  25. AllisonK

    New England

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Such a great restaurant, the food was unlike anything we have had before and the service was great! Lots of great shareable plates giving you the opportunity to try so many great dishes. Will definitely be going back.
  26. T8STR

    New York Area

    5 reviews

    1.0

    5 reviews

    Dined on May 5, 2023

    overall1food5service1ambience5
    The food was incredible as always. The service was top notch. Until it wasn’t. We arrived at 6pm for our rez and we ordered drinks and apps immediately. We ordered more food and drinks every chance we were given. We never sat idle. At 7:45 we had just received our last order of food and we were told by our waitress that there was an 8pm rez waiting for our table and we needed to wrap it up. We had spent 349$ at that point for a 4 top table in 1 Hr 45 mins. We were never idle talking and consuming a table without ordering food or drinks. Yet we were asked to leave essentially. Cortez has always been a go to for us and our friends. I luv the food and staff but I absolutely have never been more humiliated and uncomfortable in a dining situation in my life. We r foodies. We know the drill. We don’t sit and consume a hot table when people r waiting . We literally had fresh carna asada in our mouths when asked to leave our table. It will be a looooong time before I ever consider entering this establishment again. Completely mortified at how we were treated. We still tipped our 20% and left with a 420$ tab. Shamefully undeserved for how we were treated.
  27. OpenTable Diner

    New England

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on May 5, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Soft shell crab, swordfish, and the churros are the best I’ve ever had. Stellar find!! Absolutely would return if we are ever back in this area.
  28. JohnB

    Philadelphia

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on May 2, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Cute space, well-prepared delicious food, quirky and courteous staff. Couldn’t have picked better to celebrate a birthday!
  29. CrissieLu

    Raleigh

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on April 29, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Each dish at Cortez is a masterpiece of its own. The flavors and combinations the chef uses are incredible! Unique cocktails, fun atmosphere and delightful waitstaff.
  30. OpenTable Diner

    Coastal Georgia

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    The food is always amazing and our Bartender, Nick was so great! Photo is soft shell crab dish
  31. JohnB

    Raleigh

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Interesting, well executed dishes. Consistency is also a strength of this kitchen. We’ve eaten here a half dozen or more times….what we’ve ordered has been top notch every time.
  32. OpenTable Diner

    Raleigh

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 27, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Service, ambience, and food were chef's kiss. It's family style so everything can be shared. Such a gem in the Glenwood South area.
  33. OpenTable Diner

    Charlotte

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 26, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Best place in Raleigh!! Food always amazing!!
  34. AnnmarieS

    New York Area

    2 reviews

    5.0

    2 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everything from cuisine, service and atmosphere was amazing!! Made for a great date night. Cocktails were made to perfection. We loved the grilled oysters and octopus. We can’t wait to go back soon to try other dishes! Defintely recommend trying Cortez!
  35. OpenTable Diner

    New England

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Flavorful, unique seafood dishes and great cocktails. The ambiance is really floral and welcoming
  36. MarcS

    Raleigh

    11 reviews

    4.0

    11 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall4food4service5ambience2
    Cortez served a really good meal. The food was definitely fresh. The service was excellent. The only drawback was that the music was really loud. It was like a club atmosphere. We had to shout to hear each other at the table. Despite the noise, we will likely go back.
  37. Shanno19

    Raleigh

    7 reviews

    5.0

    7 reviews

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Everything was absolutely amazing! We will definitely be back!
  38. OpenTable Diner

    Chicago

    1 review

    5.0

    1 review

    Dined on April 22, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    This place is a knockout. Period. In all aspects. Cannot wait to go back. Loud music so if you’re looking to have quiet conversation over dinner then this is not where I’d go.
  39. OpenTable Diner

    Washington DC

    6 reviews

    5.0

    6 reviews

    Dined on April 21, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience5
    Absolutely amazing!!! A new favorite in downtown Raleigh.
  40. DRaleigh

    Miami

    3 reviews

    5.0

    3 reviews

    Dined on April 16, 2023

    overall5food5service5ambience4
    Very nice small restaurant with excellent food made with care. It is small and very popular, so be prepared for a lot of noise and activity around your table. People are nice and service is generally excellent. Not cheap, but ultimately, great food and a fun experience warrant the price. Good parking nearby if you arrive early, later it would be much harder to get parking spot. Menu is short but everything that our party tried is good.

Safety precautions

  • Cleaning & sanitizing

    • Surfaces sanitized between seatings
    • Digital, disposable or sanitized menu provided
    • Common areas deep-cleaned daily
    • Sanitizer or wipes provided for customers
  • Physical distancing

    • Limited number of seated diners
    • Extra space between tables
  • Protective equipment

    • Waitstaff wear masks
  • Screening

    • Sick staff prohibited in the workplace

FAQs

Cortez Seafood + Cocktail offers takeout which you can order by calling the restaurant at (919) 342-8227.

Cortez Seafood + Cocktail is rated 4.8 stars by 612 OpenTable diners.

Yes, you can generally book this restaurant by choosing the date, time and party size on OpenTable.

Make a reservation

2 people

7:00 PM


Booked 26 times today
Google Map for Cortez Seafood + Cocktail

413 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27603-2198

Dining areas

Additional information

  • Neighborhood

    Raleigh

  • Hours of operation

    Dinner Tue–Thu 5:00 pm–9:30 pm Sun 5:00 pm–9:00 pm Happy Hour Tue–Sun 5:00 pm–6:00 pm Weekend Dinner Fri, Sat 5:00 pm–10:00 pm

  • Cuisines

    Seafood, Mexican, Tapas / Small Plates

  • Dining style

    Casual Dining

  • Dress code

    Business Casual

  • Parking details

    Turn into the alleyway marked by the Cat Mural and you will find a private lot in our rear side of the building. Additional parking can be found at the parking deck behind the Carolina Ale House and street parking all around Glenwood South. We are handicap accessible!

  • Payment options

    AMEX, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

  • Executive chef

    Chef Oscar Diaz

  • Additional

    Bar/Lounge, Beer, Cocktails, Corkage Fee, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Gluten-free Options, Happy Hour, Late Night, Non-Smoking, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, Takeout, Wheelchair Access, Wine

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
  • Cookies and Interest-Based Ads
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Cookie Preferences
Copyright © 2023 OpenTable, Inc. 1 Montgomery St Ste 500, San Francisco CA 94104 - All rights reserved.
OpenTable is part of Booking Holdings, the world leader in online travel and related services.
Booking Logo
Priceline Logo
KAYAK Logo
Agoda Logo
Rentalcars Logo
OpenTable Logo