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buku: Global Street Food Reviews List

buku: Global Street Food

Located at the corner of Wilmington and Davie Streets in the heart of downtown Raleigh, bu•ku is a local restaurant that tells a global story. The name "bu•ku" itself is an international slang twist on the phrase, "Merci, beaucoup" meaning, "Thank you very much." Inspired by the pushcarts of street vendors across the globe, our chefs harvest an array of unique and distinct flavors and present them authentically, in a virtual kaleidoscope of plates. The common link: these are foods that people love. Working within different regional traditions, our menu brings together complex and flavorful dishes that have been honed over generations. Foods like Polish pierogis, Colombian arepas, and Thai barbecue prawns served in a banana leaf with green papaya salad can be found on the street corners of Warsaw, Bogota, and Bangkok. We strive to convey the immediate thrill a traveler feels eating foods like these as they first cross over the cart and exchange hands into the urban setting.
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343 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
(343 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 343 reviews
5 stars
(165)
4 stars
(142)
3 stars
(24)
2 stars
(10)
1 star
(2)
Food 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Service 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Ambiance 
4.3 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.3 / 5
Noise Level
2.2 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(226)
  • special occasion(161)
  • good for groups(137)
  • hot spot(112)
  • great for brunch(105)
  • great for outdoor dining(100)
buku: Global Street Food Reviews List
Review 1 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Superrrr, Superrrrr experience!!!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I dine at Buku for lunch and it was "out of this world" delicious!!! It will WITHOUT A DOUBT be one of my most visited spots, from now on!!! BRAVO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
Dined on 6/17/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 2 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"It's a nice place, service is wonderful! The only thing that still bugs me is the brunch is $20 which is rather steep but that would still be okay however they charge an additional $3.50 for coffee or tea! Come on guys, that's just excessive.."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2012
Special Features: special occasion
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Review 3 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Father's Day brunch let down

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Our first visit to Buku was disappointing at best, even after glowing recommendations from other people. We found the Father's Day brunch buffet to be half fairly decent breakfast fair and half frozen appetizers like mini quiche and egg rolls. I ordered a cappuccino but clearly received a latte. All this being said, the bill for 1 child and 3 adults was over $100. Not worth it in my experience. The only excellent item was the made to order omelet station. Great variety of ingredients and well cooked."
Dined on 6/16/2013
 2013
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Review 4 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"All the food was incredible! The Aloo Chana Chaat was our party's favorite. The service was outstanding and the drinks were unusual, but very good. Passion Exchange was delicious."
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, notable wine list, special occasion
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Review 5 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Well Worth It

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We drove almost 2 hours to take a chance on Buku and it was worth every mile. We were on Mom's Night out and our way to see Glen Hansard at the NC Art Museum. The thought of a new and exciting dinner and wanted to treat ourselves to something we don't have every day. This was the place for it! Everything was delicious, from the Thai Iced Tea right down to the Trilogy of Creme Brulee. Fantastic and we will be going back."
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 6 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Feels like stepping out of Raleigh

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I've been in Raleigh forever and hadnt been to buku. Went there for date night. Food was good & service was wonderful. Felt like stepping out of Raleigh. Highly recommend it!"
Dined on 6/14/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem
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Review 7 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Sunday Brunch

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"What can I say!! The food selection was Southern and eclectic.. The service was very good. I can't wait to go back again."
Dined on 6/09/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for brunch, kid-friendly, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 8 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/09/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food off the regular menu is, on the whole, very good, but the dishes we chose from the Restaurant Week fixed price menu (which our waiter lobbied for) were disappointing and barely mediocre."
Dined on 6/09/2013
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Review 9 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

BuKu Yummy

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/08/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We elected to dine on a variety of small plates. Each one was tasty and beautifully presented. This was not ordinary food! There was a wide variety of treats to choose from and every mouthful was delightful! Prices were reasonable and the wait staff was friendly and attentive. We will definitely go there again!"
Dined on 6/08/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 10 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Save your money...

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The only drink order that came out as expected was the beer they couldn't have fathomed how to create--lagunitas IPA. Inexperienced wait staff and a nauseating price point make this an inopportune experience for anyone. How this restaurant ever received above 3 stars is beyond me."
Dined on 6/07/2013
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Review 11 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Great ambience okay food

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/07/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went there during the restaurant week. Flautas was a little soggy and lacked flavor. One of the entrees is curry with rice and a chunk of sweet potato. We were underwhelmed by the small portion size, cheap ingredients, and lack of complexity. Curry did taste good and bumped the "feel-like" price tag from 7.99 to 9.99 perhaps. Duck was cooked just right, but again lacked flavor. Desserts were rather good. I would say they didn't really capture the spirit of street food, which usually bursts with freshness, intense or interesting flavors, and textures. Overall it's a good place for a night out, but probably not so much for the foodies."
Dined on 6/07/2013
Special Features: good for groups, special occasion
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Review 12 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

My favorite restaurant in Raleigh!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/05/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Buku is the restaurant I can go back to any time!"
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, late-night find, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 13 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Excellent service

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A quiet, relaxing lunch. Artful presentation of food, unique and different ingredients. Our waiter was attentive but not intrusive. Large, comfortable booth seating that would give a party of four lots of room. Would go again."
Dined on 6/05/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
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Review 14 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great food and service!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I came here for lunch and got the BBQ shrimp. It was absolutely delicious and presentation was fabulous. Service was also great - everything was super prompt, waiter was really nice, and they helped me get a cab. Don't think I'll ever be in Raleigh, NC anytime soon again....but would definitely go back."
Dined on 5/28/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, romantic, neighborhood gem, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 15 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Grad dinner

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Buku was our daughter's choice to celebrate her college gradation w/ family and friends. We've been several times before and thoroughly enjoy the food, atmosphere, and service. Our group of eleven was accommodated beautifully.
We enjoy the communal dining that the dishes lend themselves to. And we value the wait staff's input on types of dishes and advice on how many can be served. The food is delicious, attractive, and fun; you can be as adventurous as you choose to be and still be ensured of a delicious meal.
Korean BBQ w/ kimchi, Barvarian pretzels, and the assorted sorbets were dishes we tried for the first time and they were all outstanding.
"
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 16 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Best Brunch in the triangle!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Come hungry... leave satisfied!!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, kid-friendly
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Review 17 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Something different and dilicious

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"When you are in a mood for something different and this is a plce to go.
We have enjoyed eating here several times.
Easy to get to and easy parking.
"
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, great for lunch
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Review 18 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Interesting ecletic food. Small plates were the best buy."
Dined on 6/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
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Review 19 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Brunch and view of downtown doings

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is the second time I've gone to brunch here and brought a different friend. Food was great, wait staff attentive and they had our mimosas out as soon as noon struck, with no reminder necessary. We sat outside and watched the Ironman runners go by and enjoyed the beautiful weather. We would go back again."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, great for brunch
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Review 20 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Brunch lovers will be happy!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is an excellent brunch buffet, but particularly a great value if you plan to have one of the made to order omelets or Belgian waffles!
Don't forget to come for dinner or appetizers and drinks - the,end is outstanding and trying a variety of the "global street food" will leave you satisfied and looking forward to your next visit."
Dined on 6/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch
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Review 21 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Excellent Food

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/31/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife and I had dinner prior to meeting friends at the bar. We split 5 small plates of food and shared. The food was phenomenal!"
Dined on 5/31/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, hot spot
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Review 22 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 6/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Fabulous food and very good service. Ended up being more expensive than we thought as the portions of apps were small."
Dined on 6/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot
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Review 23 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Made a special occasion memorable

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This is the second time we've dined at Buku and I must say, just when I thought the experience couldn't get any better it did.
They were incredibly conscious about our request for seating location when making the reservation. In addition, because I had a group they had two waiters that were checking in on us, making the entire evening a seamless occasion. Given we had many drinks, courses, and desserts that's quite the accomplishment.
The food itself is fantastic, my advice is to try something new and different. The staples are also great, but it is part of the experience to try something new."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 24 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Incredible night out

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/24/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"My wife and I came to Raleigh to visit friends during our anniversary and we had the most amazing time. The wait staff was very friendly and helpful and multiple waiters wished us a happy anniversary. We ate 5 small plates and each one was incredible. The food was served quickly and each course was picked to arrive in the best order to compliment the tastes. We were even given complimentary champagne and a second dessert. It was a great night and we felt cared for from the moment we stepped in. We will be back."
Dined on 5/24/2013
Special Features: romantic, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 25 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Delicious!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"What a wonderful atmosphere! Great for indoor or outdoor dining. The service was great, and with such a unique menu you need a knowledgeable server who is also passionate about the dishes. My husband and I shared items off the small plates menu and had a blast swaping food back and forth. The Asian Pear Salad is fantastic! We also tried the Filipino lumpia...wow. PEI Mussels were amazing In a rich, flavorful sauce. I could have spooned it into my mouth. Of our whole meal the only thing that was a slight disappointment was the dessert menu. Was hoping for a few more "global" options, but settled on the Warm Apple Tart. It was good but a bit dry, however the cinnamon ice cream was DELICOUS. All in all, amazing place. Will go back for sure!"
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, late-night find, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 26 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Hit or miss. Cocktails were a bit off-mine too sweet, another's too strong. Pad Thai and empanadas were tasty, but veggie roll pretty bland and Cambodian shrimp roll unremarkable. Service was just odd-waiter was friendly but commented that the restaurant was too expensive for him to eat there and asked about dessert while we still had our entrees."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: good for groups
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Review 27 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
4 / 3
Energetic
"We booked a party for 20, site unseen, but highly recommended by friends. We were not mislead! From the minute we walked in the door, we were treated like royalty. The staff was outstanding. The private room was wonderful and it was nice to be able to be as loud as we wanted. The food was absolutely outstanding. The wine list was outstanding. Everyone ordered something different and everyone raved about their choices. I highly recommend Buku for a rehearsal dinner, birthday party, etc. Oh, and the free valet parking - A+!"
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, late-night find, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 28 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Brunch at Buku

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/26/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Went to Buku for extended family brunch. All of us enjoyed the selections. The menu for brunch is traditional brunch and is augmented with street food. I sampled the omelet with crab, jalapenos, bacon and cheese, followed by fresh made waffles, fruit, pastries, a few of the spring rolls, dumplings, and indonesian curry. At the end when we could eat no more, they brought a cobbler with ice cream table side for the group. I think the brunch is reasonably priced, well presented, good variety ,and on the day we went, not too busy."
Dined on 5/26/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, special occasion
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Review 29 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Interesting

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was the first time at Buku. We enjoyed the tapas... They brought out 1 at a time (there was 4 of us).. I asked for what we ordered to be served at once and the waiter said, we do it this way for lack of table room. I prefer to eat a variety of foods at once and share opposed to one at a time, otherwise, watch for the super spicy dishes. (The menu may not tell you it is) The service was impeccable except they took away two of our drinks with cocktail still left in the glass.! I cannot say any of us would go back again..."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 30 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/25/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Excellent food and service. Creme brulee trilogy was great."
Dined on 5/25/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, special occasion
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Review 31 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Delicious global foods!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/19/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had the Sunday brunch and the food was delicious! I especially loved the waffles and homemade syrups. Foods from all over the world. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience."
Dined on 5/19/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, great for lunch, special occasion, kid-friendly
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Review 32 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Glad we tried Buku

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I ordered the red snapper Vietnamese special and was very pleased. Wife combined three small plates for meal and was also very satisfied. I give kudos to our waitress who was helpful and attentive, without being intrusive (which seems to be more rare to find these days)."
Dined on 5/18/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 33 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

More hit than miss

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"My crew has a theory: No matter what you order here, you're going to have about a seventy-five percent hit rate. I'd stick to the under ten dollar plates; the premium items (sake-braised short ribs) were okay, but not really worth enough to justify the other price."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 34 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"brunch was great - service was excellent."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for brunch, kid-friendly
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Review 35 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Mother's Day Suprise

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"A great find, eclectic food, great service and great value."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot
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Review 36 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

global experience

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"The menu here is so interesting. The presentations of dishes are artful and the subtle blend of spices makes you ask "how did the chef do this?" The muscles in cream sauce are the absolute best we have eaten anywhere. This visit we had a tuna and tempura shrimp sushi roll with a vanilla reduction. The combination of flavors was amazing. The ginger in the soy sauce is subtle and very nice. The snapper was great, the peirogies are also a favorite. We finished our meal with the house made sorbet boat; a refreshing assortment of raspberry, cantalope, honeydew, strawberry and guava sorbets.
Raleigh is lucky to have this gem of a restaurant.
"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, scenic view, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, great for lunch, special occasion
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Review 37 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

great place

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This is a fabulous restaurant and never disappoints. Great food, great service."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 38 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Experience!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Buku is an awesome Restaurant! Menu is diverse and presentation of food is excellent. The wait staff is professional and our waiter Justin made some great recommendations. Definitely a restaurant not to be missed when eating downtown Raleigh."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, great for brunch, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 39 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Used to be good

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I really hope this restaurant returns to its glory days soon! I went there several years ago a couple of times and really enjoyed it. The food was innovative and delicious. The presentation was new and exciting. And the restaurant was beautiful. Well, the restaurant is still beautiful but that's about it. The food is no longer innovative and the dishes we had were either average and overpriced (see the Scallops) or just poor quality (see the Aztec pumpkin soup which tested like pumpkin bread mix with burnt pep it's tossed it...HORRIFIC!). I have taken this off my list of Raleigh favs and can no longer recommend it."
Dined on 5/04/2013
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Review 40 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

The flavor just danced

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I have never cried over how good food tasted before, but this place was incredible!
I originally chose this spot for a wine-tasting night. I figured we would grab food elsewhere afterwards. Needless to say, we never left! I booked a reservation for two (and good thing I did - there were some other celebrations going on) and we were seated right on time. Our wine tasting came with a complimentary meal of duck, potatoes, and some other vegetables. I can't even describe it - the flavor just danced on your tongue! After that, we had to try dessert. Again, simply amazing! Our waitress was awesome and even told us a bit about the area. The only downside I could say was possibly the portions. Get dessert elsewhere, but do not miss these meals!
"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, late-night find, special occasion
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Review 41 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Great Experience

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OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/06/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"My wife and I searched for a place for our anniversary and settled on Buku because it reflected our life together in various locations around the globe. We debated to just have a meal of small plates and in retrospect, we would probably have enjoyed that more. We really liked all of our food and the accompanying bottle of wine. If you are expecting an exact replication of your favorite foreign dish, this may not be your place. However, if you are willing to accept an version with an upscale twist, this place is great. We had a great night."
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, romantic
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Review 42 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

buku

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I've tried this place 3 times now, and I just can't find much to love here. It's just ok. I definately wouldn't go out of my way to eat at buku, but its an ok place to grab drinks if I just happen to be downtown."
Dined on 5/05/2013
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Review 43 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Perfect!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/06/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Food was outstanding along with the service. I will be honest, I was not really looking forward to going because it seemed like a girlly place. Honestly, the only reason why I made reservations was because my wife really wanted to go there and it was our anniversary...... sorry.
I was pleasantly surprised by BuKu's appeal to the "meat and potato" man. Not to mention there beer selection was awesome, try the one from Brazil! Highly recommended!"
Dined on 5/06/2013
Special Features: romantic, special occasion
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Review 44 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Sunday lunch at Buku

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I was disappointed to find that we could not order lunch from Buku's regular menu on Sunday at 1 p.m. The brunch was standard brunch fare that is offered everywhere. We were hoping for international food with Buku's normal level of quality."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, late-night find, notable wine list
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Review 45 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Amazing food choices - unique

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Definitely a change of pace and for the better. I loved the global choices on the menu. The service was excellent and the staff was friendly and helpful. Food was fantastic.
It was a little noisy when we were there, but other than that, all was good."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, romantic
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Review 46 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

1st Experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Interesting menu; I enjoyed the Sea Bass dish and my wife enjoyed the Chicken dish. However neither dish blew us away. We both agree that we would dine there again, but its not in our top 5 list to dine at."
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups
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Review 47 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Anniversary meal

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Overall we enjoyed celebrating our 5th anniversary here. We were welcomed with two complimentary glasses of champagne. The food as delicious: Thai scallops and French chicken breast. We also enjoyed the stuff avocado and dessert. Our only discomfort was seating. We both felt our booth seats were very uncomfortable and made it feel uptight. Great waiter (relaxed) and helped us to enjoy our time. Didn't rush us out either."
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot, special occasion
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Review 48 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A great dining experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"This was our first visit to Bu.Ku and won't be our last! Everything about this restaurant exceeded our expectations and we are pretty picky. Since this was our first dinner we opted to try as many dishes and cuisines as possible by ordering appetizers and small plates. I opted for the Asian Pear Salad, Sing Ha Roll and Sake-Braised Short Ribs while my wife enjoyed the Empanadas Picantes and Thai BBQ Prawns. It was our waiters last night before returning to his hometown and he impressed us with his attention and friendly service. We can't wait to try the other dishes."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, notable wine list
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Review 49 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Expand your palate here

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/02/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"This trendy restaurant in the heart of downtown Raleigh is a excellent place to go for adults. The menu offers a wide variety of "street food" The servie is outstanding and the food presentation is a work of art. Everything from start to finish was excellent. I highly recommend."
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, neighborhood gem, special occasion
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Review 50 for buku: Global Street Food
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Night out with the Girls

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Was my second visit to Buku, once for Sunday Bruch and for dinner on May 1. Everything was outstanding. Vince was my waiter both visits and he is excellent, very attentive (but not to much) and very personable. Downtown location is good, easy to find. We sampled various items on the menu, the food, the timing and the presentation were perfect. Definitely try a few of the desserts!"
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, great for brunch, romantic, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, hot spot, special occasion
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