37 Best Bars in Durham

“Absolutely Outstanding. I heard after about the Michelin nod. We are new to town and have been so pleased wit the quality of fine dining and innovation in this small city. We look forward to many more opportunities to experience what was a flawless dining experience at Little Bull. Delicious.“

“Recently visited this location for a team building activity. Our instructor was knowledgeable, engaging, and made sure everyone in our group felt comfortable. They gave us tips on technique, safety, and helped us organize a tournament. Highly recommended for any organization or group of friends looking for a unique and competitive experience!“

“I love Ally 26, the atmosphere is wonderful. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable. The drink selection creative with many great options to choose from.“

“Great fun with the family“

“Lovely bar with delicious beers. Lots of games and comfy seating and dog-friendly!“

“Great atmosphere fun, friendly staff. Drinks were on point. We loved the Apple Bottom Jeans and Winter Crème Brûlée both were absolutely delish😋“

“My band played here last night, and we were treated with fabulous hospitality and warm vibes! The cocktails were fantastic and the bartender had a great personality. The ambience is just perfect and we would definitely return as patrons AND as musicians to this cool little spot <3“

“I’ve been here many times and always had a wonderful experience. The people ahbe great energy and the atmosphere is absolutely top notch. This is an incredible spot in Durham and you should go check it out whenever you can, as often as possible.“

“Great food, drinks, service and atmosphere. Very small and intimate. Loved the ambiance“

“Awesome beer selection, atmosphere & live music!“

“My partner and I recently did a wine tasting event with the owner, Esteban, and loved it. He was super engaging, unpretentious, and informative. The tasting was appropriate for both a casual drinker and sommelier level, since it was a small group and he was able to tailor his commentary accordingly. The wines selected are those that I would have not been exposed to otherwise which was a real treat - I feel like the tasting opened up a door into a new world for us!

It would be really great if they would start offering a bit more food service (e.g., bread and butter, cheese, etc), even if it’s super limited. I know I would come more often if I could get a little nibble with my drink.“

“Awesome indoor and outdoor seating options, cool vintage interior touches. Always an interesting selection of draft beers, plus basic shots & classy cocktails.“

“My party came for the affordable drinks, I came for chicken wings. The chef cooks the wings to perfection, I had to ask the waitress to thank him for us, the chef came out shook our hand and gave us a few cooking secrets. If you're ever in the neighborhood stop in for some good wings and affordable drinks!“

“Had a great time!! The bartender was very helpful in choosing different wines. I really enjoyed the DJ.“

“Came here with my older kids to see an artist they love. Staff was chill, the building temperate despite all the other people in attendance. The venue was easy to find, provided water during the show (more venues need this!!) and in the end we all had a great time.“

“Recently discovered this place the last few months and have enjoyed coming here for drinks. There was this place in NYC that had Pickletini and I had to try it here as I haven't seen it anywhere else. While it was good, it was too pickley for more, they have other cocktails on their menu that I've enjoyed as alternatives.

Overall, good place to have a lowkey hang out night.

(See pictures in Photos section)“

“We had an afternoon of Whiskey tasting. it was absolutely incredible the guy (Duke) was so knowledgeable about everything whiskey. We tried 6 completely different but all incredible whiskeys (well except the Ardberg).“

“great scene, great beverages, super chill“

“A little expensive but the vibes and overall atmosphere is amazing we wanted to show up for their Read and Sip event but accidentally came a week early. Had an amazing time chatted with the staff, they had amazing cocktails as well as mocktails and even offered to change the music for us since we all came in to read. We declined but they did play some calm tracks while we were there which was super considerate on their part definitely going again“

“The owners, staff, regular patrons and newer customers are what Durham and Orange County are all about..Fun, Friends, and an owner who can win all dance contests that are held to raise money for the many different charities and community needs that need local support. Thank you, Milkcarton“

“I love Boxcar! It’s such a fun night out. They have a great selection of drinks and games and the outdoor seating is expansive when it is nice outside. They sometimes have live entertainment too - accidentally showed up during a drag show which was a fun surprise! One of the Guitar Hero guitars doesn’t really work well though… so might want to put up a sign so people don’t get frustrated 😅“

“Good time with friends and games. Grab a nice drink its chill

Vegetarian options: Yes

Dietary restrictions: No

Parking: Brightleaf

Kid-friendliness: Yes

Wheelchair accessibility: Yes“

“First time! Met a friend for a working lunch. I’ll be back!!“

“Right in the center of town and basically everything! Come check it out.“

“Had a killer time watching the Rattletraps last night! Bar is cool, funky, cozy. Awesome staff and a great sound system.“

“Great food, drinks, service and atmosphere. Very small and intimate. Loved the ambiance“

“Coffee martini is the best“

“Definitely recommend Doyle's! Great place and great people. Get you pool game on or just hang out at the bar if that's your thing. The bar tender is awesome!“

“The food is delicious. My blacked pulled chicken torta was moist and full of flavor. You should definitely try the place out.“

“Queereoke was a lot of fun, great tunes, lots of dancing, and fun people.“

“Great place for beer and pool.“

“We were in town for a show at the Carolina. We walked in and had a lovely surprise .. a great meal and good atmosphere. Next time we are town we will come back.“

“It was our first time going today and it certainly won't be the last! we loved everything about this place. The staff is wonderful, helpful, and very kind. she explained everything well and let us extend our reservation for another hour. Prices are very reasonable especially if you come with friends and split. the room was very comfortable and we all enjoyed having fun together.“

“I want to express praise and gratitude to Desmond at the Durham Hotel. I had been calling the rooftop restaurant for a couple of weeks to try and modify a reservation for a birthday party and after five or six attempts, they had not called me back. I eventually called the hotel and Desmond answered and even though it is completely separate and outside of his job responsibilities, he took down all my information and reached out to them on my behalf . Desmond was able to modify my reservation so that I did not have to drive down there an hour each way. He was very professional and I enjoyed talking with him. He is definitely in the right line of work because I felt like I was talking to a friend. Details matter, and Customer Service should still matter. Thank you, Desmond!! Sincerely, William / reservation 9546“

“In my opinion the best Indian restaurant in our area. The food was interesting and well cooked. We will visit again.“

“Lovely staff, amazing service, and nice cold beer 🍻“