Mothers & Sons Trattoria is a delightful Italian restaurant nestled in Durham, NC, that promises an exceptional dining experience. With its warm atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, diners consistently rave about the attentive service and creative menu offerings. Reviewers highlight the meaty Amatricana sauce and the rich Cacio e Pepe butter as must-try items. The seasoned pasta dishes, such as the celebrity eggplant Parmesan, are described as generous and satisfying. The burrata and Buffalo mozzarella starters have also garnered enthusiastic compliments, with guests relishing their fresh flavors. The seamless blend of comfort food and gastronomic flair keeps patrons returning for more. Many share delightful experiences, from the savory Ham & Cheddar Bun to the indulgent Gianduja budino for dessert. However, some note cramped seating, which can detract from the overall experience. Overall, Mothers & Sons Trattoria resonates with guests seeking authentic Italian cuisine, making it a standout choice for both casual diners and those looking for a noteworthy culinary adventure before heading to a nearby show. The harmonious balance of flavors and the attention to detail ensure that each meal is memorable. It's clear this Trattoria has captured the hearts—and appetites—of its patrons.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible seating
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Serves great cocktails
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has great wine list
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves comfort food
Serves food
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar on site
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy
Romantic
Trendy
Upmarket
Crowd
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually has a wait
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs available
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking
Somewhat difficult to find a space
Photos
Reviews For Mothers & Sons Trattoria
Tyson Eckel
May 17,2025
We were in town for work and a client suggested we meet for dinner here. What a wonderful experience. The meal was fantastic. The service was exceptional and every one of Amanda's suggestions were enjoyed by each and all. I will be back to try more of the menu during my next trip.
irko k
Apr 24,2025
Didn’t make reservations, but got a great table. Service was wonderful. Food was great. The Porchetta was slightly charred. The beet salad was delicious, and the eggplant Parmesan was delicious as well, we will go back again.
V or Kitty
Apr 12,2025
We enjoyed our meal. We shared the burrata and Buffalo mozzarella. Both were incredible. I had a seasonal pasta of pesto made with ramps and he had bucatini. We shared a gianduja budino for desert, which neither of us had heard of, but we both really enjoyed. The tables were pretty close together and I don't think a wheelchair would fit through. When I went to the restroom,I thought it might be gender neutral because I didn't see a sign, but it was multi stall, so it had to be? When I left I saw a picture of a woman next to the door. Was that supposed to count as a sign? It just looked like a picture on the wall.
Scott Heldman
Mar 30,2025
First visit. Amazing experience. Started with two cocktails - a little disappointed they were out of cranberry juice for the Cosmo, but they found a gift substitute. The scallop Cristi crudo was soft, and favorful. Will order every visit. Next we had two pasta dishes. Both were excellent. Well prepared, appropriate portion size, nicely seasoned. We also had the 3 meat/ 3 sauce special. Both enjoyed every bite. The atmosphere was warm and comfortable. Our server was friendly and very knowledgeable. She answered all of our menu questions and was very patient as we made decisions. One of our best meals in a long time.
Jay Horowitz
Mar 12,2025
Grabbed dinner at Mothers & Sons before seeing a show at DPAC. Started with the arancini and beet root salad appetizers, both we delicious. For mains we had the eggplant parmesan and the daily special pasta fagioli. The eggplant was more like an eggplant lasagna, it was huge and excellent. The pasta fagioli was not bad but probably would not order again. Overall, the meal was very good and I would happily come back again.
Claydoo (claydoooo)
Mar 3,2025
What can I really say. This is one of our go-to’s and I’m actually regretful I haven’t submitted a review until now. Please take your family here. Share your meal together. Laugh and have some wine or a cocktail. The atmosphere, the staff, and the food are some of the best Italian around. I don’t say this lightly; their porterhouse steak is the BEST steak I’ve ever gotten from a restaurant in this area. That is saying something. Stop looking at the price. Share it with your family and enjoy. It’s worth the price because they buy good cuts and they season and cook to perfection. Thank you M&S for your years of amazing experiences. Don’t stop what you’re doing and make sure you keep your charm. Never give in to lowering quality to keep prices low. It would only take away from the amazing attention to detail and flavors. Thank you.
John Doe
Feb 12,2025
Very nice restaurant. The vegetarian lasagna is incredible. The street parking can be a little tight at peak times.
Joule Nelson
Feb 5,2025
I have gone here multiple times, and each time the food and service has been amazing. My brother had come with us last time and also enjoyed it-him being a somewhat food critic haha! It’s a bit noisy but very cozy, and I find their Shirley temples to be very different from others-so I would recommend that! I would say make a reservation just to be sure.
Reviews For Mothers & Sons Trattoria