42 Best Bars in Durham

“I typically only rate/review exceptional experiences and last night was one to remember. I took my parents out to celebrate their anniversary and everything about our experience was top notch. Food was exciting and different without being too fancy. We have lived in durham all our lives and agreed it was the best meal since we have had since magnolia grill and four square shutdown. The atmosphere was great without being too loud and the outdoor space is somewhere we will definitely revisit. I am a bit reluctant to call out this restaurant for fear it will become too popular but it is too special to not be recognized. if you have not experienced little bull I would suggest you try asap“

“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😋“

“Went for a going away party and it is really a nice place. There is an inside bar and an outside rooftop area, with a window to the bar. The server reminded me of that Norwegian soccer star Erland, or whatever his name is. The appetizers we enjoyed included hummus with cauliflower, pita triangles, and some flat breads. It was still daytime but even so, the atmosphere was nice. I imagine the place is very cozy at night“

“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“

“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“

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

“Awesome beer selection, atmosphere & live music!“

“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.“

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

“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.“

“great scene, great beverages, super chill“

“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)“

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

“Bralie’s Sports Bar is hands down one of the best spots around for great food, fun, and entertainment. The food is outstanding every time — fresh, flavorful, and way better than you would expect from a sports bar. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick meal or spending the night with friends, the menu never disappoints.

The customer service is equally impressive. The staff is always friendly, attentive, and welcoming, making the atmosphere feel comfortable and relaxed from the moment you walk in.

What really sets Bralie’s apart is the entertainment. There’s always something going on during nights and weekends, making it a perfect place to catch a game, enjoy live entertainment, or just have a great night out. Highly recommend checking this place out if you want excellent food, great service, and a fun atmosphere all in one spot.“

“We have the best time here.. My 3 year old daughter loves the ski ball machine.. The staff has always been friendly and polite. Very helpful if I needed some assistance. And I love that during the day, it's kid friendly and then at eight o'clock, it's adult friendly.“

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

“5/5 Experience - Saw Tokyo Tea Room.

Bartenders are tentative and super chill. Venue is next door a bar/outdoor hangout spot where you can grab a quick eat/drink. Small area for you to sit but limited seating - more of a standing venue.!“

“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).“

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

“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“

“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.“

“Coffee martini is the best“

“Visiting Weldon Mills Distillery was truly an unforgettable experience. The tour was nothing short of amazing — not only was it incredibly educational, but it was also engaging from start to finish. You can really feel the passion and craftsmanship behind every step of their process, and the guides do a fantastic job of bringing the history and science of distilling to life. Customer service was top notch. Everyone we met was warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable, making us feel right at home the moment we walked in. It’s clear that the staff genuinely care about the quality of their product and the experience of their guests. And the drinks? Absolutely incredible. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon lover or just curious to try something new, their spirits are smooth, flavorful, and expertly crafted. Each pour tells a story, and it’s clear why Weldon Mills is earning a reputation as one of the best distilleries in the region. Highly recommend this stop to anyone traveling through North Carolina — you won’t be disappointed.“

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

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

“Food was good and served quick. Service was outstanding. We sat in the bar area and our server was quick“

“Great place for beer and pool.“

“Their main logo resembles a miniature Bat light as it blazes through the city darkness at the intersection of W. Main and E. Chapel Hill -- summoning all sports fans and late-night snack seekers alike toward its beacon.

E.O.'s keeps a consistent lunch crowd on weekdays. I've ordered takeout wings from here a couple of times. Parked across from the Novus tower, the bar makes for a nice addition to this niche area of W. Main Street without adding too much noise.“

“My daughter had her birthday party here in one of the private rooms (GENIUS!) and it was one of the best nights of her life! There is nothing that could have made the night a better experience for her. Thank you for offering this service!“

“Our first time dining here and definitely won’t be our last. Everything was exceptional best fries, delicious beet salad. Great gluten free options. Staff super friendly and efficient. Atmosphere was jazzy cool. Our waiter Ryan was great and made the best Arnold Palmers. 10 stars“

“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“

“Had very relaxing time with family. The food was enjoyable.“

“Everything that we’ve tried was absolutely delicious. This restaurant has sensible prices, and no pretense. The wait staff is also great. The Pinot I tried was excellent and did I mention the tiramisu, It’s rich and large enough for 3 people to share. No you can’t finish the food, which means that your bringing home enough for dinner another day. No pretense, absolutely the best taste, and enough for another meal.“

“Just delicious and fantastic staff“

“ordered 2 pizzas one was gluten-free. we were pleased and tried 2 appetizers and both desserts. thank you our expectations were met.“

“The food was great and the service was excellent! I highly recommend it!“