33 Best Cocktail Bars in Durham

Browse menus, reviews and photos of Cocktail Bars in Durham.

Showing 33 of 34 restaurants

  • Lulu Bang Bang 5418 Page Road, Durham Cocktail Bar · $$

    1 Lulu Bang Bang

    4.3 Superb 458 Reviews

    5418 Page Road, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Mr Gandhi's Basil Fried Rice
    • Grilled Japanese Eggplant
    • Tandoori Lamb Rack Chops
    • Barbequed Local Chicken

    “Great place but some dish not familiar”

  • Barsa New Indian 105 West Morgan Street Ste 100, Durham Indian · $$

    2 Barsa New Indian

    4.8 Superb 422 Reviews

    105 West Morgan Street Ste 100, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Pan-Seared Fish in Banana Leaf
    • Coconut Pumpkin Curry
    • Pumpkin Coconut Curry
    • Chicken Tikka Masala

    “I have been here several times with my friends and colleagues. We have lunch party with my colleagues many times they provided free dessert. The quality of the food is good (both veg and nonveg). Lavina (staff of the restaurant) was excellent with both her recommendations and service. I strongly recommend this restaurant for lunch/dinner.”

  • Liberty & Plenty Distillery 609 Foster Street Suite B, Durham Cocktail Bar

    3 Liberty & Plenty Distillery

    4.9 Superb 56 Reviews

    609 Foster Street Suite B, Durham

    • Delivery

    “Very friendly and they make great recommendations on drinks.”

  • Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar - Durham 811 9th Street, Durham Indian · $$

    4 Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar - Durham

    4.8 Superb 766 Reviews

    811 9th Street, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Seeraga Samba Goat Biryani Chef's Special GF
    • Gobi Manchurian Chefs Special Vegan
    • Vegetable Samosa 2 pcs Vegan
    • Mysore Masala Dosa Vegan GF

    “Have been to the apex restaurant for lunch for my husband bday for first time . The food ambience and hospitality of Praveen the manager was awesome and they surprised us with bday desert and song and made the first visit the most memorable Can’t wait to go again”

  • Nanas 2514 University Drive, Durham Fine Dining · $$$$

    5 Nanas

    4.4 Superb 473 Reviews

    2514 University Drive, Durham

    Customers’ favorites

    • Braised Beef Short Rib over Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Artichokes
    • Roasted Beets with Gorgonzola
    • Dinner Rolls Cultured Butter
    • Oysters on the Half Shell

    “This place is a true GEM to Durham! I celebrated my birthday here with a group of 17 people and from the initial conversation with the staff they were extremely efficient, professional and accommodating! And the food…the food was incredible! The drinks were made perfectly, the service was top notch and the atmosphere was very accommodating. I 100% recommend this place, no matter the occasion! Thank you all for accommodating my large group and making sure we had an unforgettable evening.”

  • Nikos BrightLeaf Square, 905 West Main Street Unit 21B, Durham Greek · $$

    6 Nikos

    4.6 Superb 510 Reviews

    BrightLeaf Square, 905 West Main Street Unit 21B, Durham

    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Braised Short Ribs Youvetsi
    • White Sweet Potato Gnocchi
    • Banana Walnut Baklava
    • Roasted Cauliflower

    “Hands down the best restaurant in the Durham-Raleigh area. I love it!!”

  • Conniption Bar & Lounge - Formerly known as Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge 715 Washington Street STE B, Durham Cocktail Bar · $$

    7 Conniption Bar & Lounge - Formerly known as Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge

    4.6 Superb 130 Reviews

    715 Washington Street STE B, Durham

    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Cocktails Corpse Reviver Classic Martini Negroni Bianco Front
    • Chalice of Gin Aka Gin and Tonic
    • Seasonal Whipped Goat Cheese
    • Conniption American Dry

    “Perfectly crafted cocktails and wonderful atmosphere. We had twelve in our party who did the distillery tour before, it was really amazing trying all of their wonderful Gin’s and Liqueur’s. Will definitely be back!”

  • Red Phone Booth 125 West Orange Street, Durham Cocktail Bar

    8 Red Phone Booth

    4.5 Superb 121 Reviews

    125 West Orange Street, Durham

    “We went here for the first time and were blown away by this spot. Very cool making the call on the rotary phone to gain access. Drinks were amazing and food looked good even though we did not get any. Big selection of cigars as well. All the staff were knowledgeable and awesome. Will be looking into getting a membership.”

  • Alley Twenty Six 320 East Chapel Hill Street Ste 200, Durham New American · $$

    9 Alley Twenty Six

    4.6 Superb 352 Reviews

    320 East Chapel Hill Street Ste 200, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Alley Burger with Foie Gras
    • Blistered Shishito Peppers
    • Oysters on the Half Shell
    • The Mandatory Green Salad

    “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.”

  • Kingfisher 321 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham Cocktail Bar · $$

    10 Kingfisher

    4.4 Superb 185 Reviews

    321 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham

    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Bee Durham Similar to Bees Knees
    • Rye Old Fashion L Bee Durham R
    • Bourbon Hot Toddy
    • Paycheck Pilsner

    “As someone who has lived in Durham for the past six years, I cannot begin to express the love I have for this place. They consistently produce fun and intriguing cocktails while simultaneously providing a level of service that makes it feel more like home than a bar. The staff are individually fantastic but collectively brilliant; culminating in a menu that speaks to each mixologist’s personality as much as the team as a whole. Many thanks to Alex, Nikki, Kyle, Nate, and the rest of the kingfisher staff for all the fabulous drinks and wonderful nights!”

  • Weldon Mills Distillery Durham 300 East Main Street Ste 001, Durham Distilleries · $$

    11 Weldon Mills Distillery Durham

    4.9 Superb 113 Reviews

    300 East Main Street Ste 001, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    “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.”

  • Arcana Bar and Lounge 331 West Main Street, Durham Bar · $

    12 Arcana Bar and Lounge

    4.5 Superb 150 Reviews

    331 West Main Street, Durham

    “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 Glass Jug Beer Lab - Downtown Durham 545 Foster Street Ste 10, Durham Brewery

    13 The Glass Jug Beer Lab - Downtown Durham

    4.8 Superb 88 Reviews

    545 Foster Street Ste 10, Durham

    • Delivery

    “This is a beautiful cozy place to hang out. They have indoor and outdoor sitting. The bartender was so sweet and always smiling and very helpful. We went to a nearby brewery with out own food only to find out they dont allow outside food. So we moved here. I have been to the rtp one too and both are beautiful locations and very friendly staff.”

  • The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge 119 West Orange St 3rd Floor, Durham Bar · $$

    14 The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge

    4.4 Superb 188 Reviews

    119 West Orange St 3rd Floor, Durham

    Customers’ favorites

    • Red Pepper Hummus
    • Crab Cake
    • Elite Dip

    “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”

  • Nerra 506 Ramseur Street Ste 2, Durham Seafood

    15 Nerra

    4.7 Superb 96 Reviews

    506 Ramseur Street Ste 2, Durham

    Customers’ favorites

    • Seafood Platter and Pasta Dishes
    • Oven Roasted Whole Red Snapper
    • Grilled Salmon with Salsa
    • Blackened Kale Caesar

    “Food was delicious - service was a bit weird since the restaurant is spread out and it seemed like there was only one waitress that night but overall everything we ate was amazing. The shrimp app, fried whole snapper and salmon w lemon butter sauce - no notes!”

  • Monterrey mexican restaurant 4600 Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard, Durham Mexican · $

    16 Monterrey mexican restaurant

    4.3 Superb 405 Reviews

    4600 Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Salted Rim Margarita
    • Mexican Street Corn
    • Oysters Preparados
    • Enchiladas Sampler

    “Muy buena comida y buen precio servio rápido y amable 😋😋”

  • Gocciolina 3314 Guess Road, Durham Italian · $$

    17 Gocciolina

    4.3 Superb 300 Reviews

    3314 Guess Road, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Sauteed Brussels Sprouts with Garlic Chili Flake and Lemon
    • Spinach and Cheese Ravioli
    • Spicy Seafood Spaghetti
    • Fennel Shallot Ravioli

    “𝐓𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞: 𝐀 𝐓𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐲: 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐄𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐡 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐆𝐨𝐜𝐜𝐢𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚 – 𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐡𝐚𝐦, 𝐍𝐂 Gocciolina offers a culinary journey reminiscent of a quaint Italian trattoria, where every dish celebrates fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. Stepping through the doors, guests are transported to a cozy haven adorned with charming family photos and rustic décor, evoking the warmth and hospitality of traditional Italian households. - Michael Glinter has traveled to 68 countries and 36 states to get the flavor of some amazing foods. His view on reviews is simple – Taste, Presentation, and Service. He believes telling the reader a positive and negative unbiased look at the restaurant is essential. - SERVICE: Justin was just amazing, and the rest of the staff worked as a team to escalate the level of attention customers would expect in a restaurant. His knowledge of the menu and ability to articulate your experience with the meals truly was outstanding. His attention to the customer and quick follow-through make him a value for his restaurant. - STARTERS: Crispy Eggplant - This is a true elevation of the humble eggplant to new heights with their exquisite Crispy Fried Eggplant topped with Gorgonzola Dolce and Fresh Tomatoes. The crispy eggplant provides a satisfying crunch, while the creamy gorgonzola dolce lends a luxurious richness that melts in the mouth. The sweetness of the fresh tomatoes balances the savory notes, creating a harmonious union of tastes that is both comforting and sophisticated. The chef artfully balanced contrasting flavors and textures to create an unforgettable appetizer. - MAIN ENTREES Roasted Lady Edison Pork Loin with Speck Ham, Campo Cheese, and Braised Ramps (this was a seasonal special) Diners will find that this dish takes you on a gastronomic journey with their exquisite Roasted Lady Edison Pork Loin. This dish harmoniously blends premium ingredients to create a symphony of flavors. Each component is meticulously crafted to perfection, from the tender pork loin to the savory speck ham, creamy Campo cheese, and aromatic braised ramps, resulting in a culinary masterpiece that delights the senses. The succulent Lady Edison pork loin, roasted to perfection, boasts a rich depth of flavor complemented by the speck ham's smoky notes. The Campo cheese adds a creamy indulgence, while the braised ramps infuse the dish with a delicate sweetness and earthy aroma. Together, these ingredients create a symphony of flavors that dance across the palate with each mouthful. – Feedback: It was a little salty. I think with the ham on the dish, you could cut back on the seasoning of the pork and have a better balance. But overall, exceptional. - Hand Cut Noodles, Lady Edison Pork Ragu, and Parmigiano. The art of pasta reaches new heights with their homemade Hand Cut Noodles (wide noodles), served in a luscious Lady Edison Pork Ragu and crowned with a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano. This dish epitomizes the essence of comfort food, offering a soul-warming experience that satisfies both palate and spirit. The hand-cut noodles, with their delicate texture and satisfying chewiness, provide the perfect canvas for the robust flavors of the Lady Edison pork ragu. Slow-cooked to perfection, the ragu boasts layers of depth and complexity, with tender shreds of pork melding seamlessly with aromatic herbs and spices. The Parmigiano adds a salty richness that ties the dish together, creating a symphony of comforting and indulgent flavors. – Feedback: I'm not 100% a fan of their red sauce. I asked for a side of the red sauce to better understand the base sauce. It was a little water, almost tasting watered down, lighter in color – not the rich red that one would expect, and it was a bit too bland - DESSERT There are no words. Their homemade class chocolate chip cannolis and biscotti was a true end to a fantastic meal.”

  • Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas 112 West Main Street, Durham South American · $

    18 Luna Rotisserie and Empanadas

    4.5 Superb 368 Reviews

    112 West Main Street, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Rice Bean and Cheese Empanada with Choice Og Two Sides
    • Rice Bean and Chelse Empanada with Choice of Two Sides
    • Blackened Pulled Chicken Yukon Gold Roasted Peppers
    • Pollo La Brasa Whole Chicken Family Meal

    “I eat here every single time I’m in the area! The patacone sandwiches are phenomenal! And if you’ve never had Ecuadorian Horchata … you must try it! Forget everything you know about other horchatas - this one is a floral, citrusy tisane dream (best served hot imo). Service is always fast and friendly. Lots of seating. I only wish this was closer to home haha”

  • Hayti Collective Kitchen & Cocktails 908-101 Fayetteville St, Durham American · $

    19 Hayti Collective Kitchen & Cocktails

    4.8 Superb 47 Reviews

    908-101 Fayetteville St, Durham

    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Salmon and Smoked Gouda Sandwich
    • Cobb Salad

    “They have fire live music! R & B night every Tuesday night, and live jazz every Wednesday. And it’s worth mentioning it that their breakfast selection is top notch as well.”

  • West End Social 601 West Main Street Ste East, Durham Wine Bar · $

    20 West End Social

    4.7 Superb 60 Reviews

    601 West Main Street Ste East, Durham

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

  • The Studio Bar and Cafe 202 Corcoran Street, Durham Cocktail Bar · $$$

    21 The Studio Bar and Cafe

    3.6 Good 70 Reviews

    202 Corcoran Street, Durham

    “Here for business. Lovely staff, quiet on the 2nd floor. Pool area was relaxing. Only drawback is if you want a continental breakfast, it is not served. However, it is located in such a nice area you can walk anywhere and find a nice spot to eat any meal.”

  • Kore Durham 923 East Main Street, Durham Lounges · $$

    22 Kore Durham

    4.7 Superb 27 Reviews

    923 East Main Street, Durham

    “This spot is everything I have been waiting for as a professional black 30something! The staff are so sweet and kind.”

  • Dram and Draught 701 West Main Street Ste 123, Durham Bar · $$

    23 Dram and Draught

    4.5 Superb 89 Reviews

    701 West Main Street Ste 123, Durham

    Customers’ favorites

    • Vineyards Pinot Gris
    • Respect the Punch

    “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).”

  • Red Crab Juicy Seafood 4600 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd Ste.29-30, Durham Seafood · $$

    24 Red Crab Juicy Seafood

    4.4 Superb 445 Reviews

    4600 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd Ste.29-30, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • CB7 Snowe Crab Legs & Shrimp Head Off
    • CB7 Snowe Crab Legs & Shrimp Head Off
    • Seafood Boil with Sausage and Shrimp
    • Crab Meat Seafood Combo

    “My go to seafood spot for years its never failed me”

  • It's a Southern Thing - Ellis Crossings 1051 Yunus Road Suite 110, Durham Southern · $$

    25 It's a Southern Thing - Ellis Crossings

    4.4 Superb 287 Reviews

    1051 Yunus Road Suite 110, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • B L a T Sandwich with Home Fries and Fresh Fruit Cup
    • Jalapeño Brined Fried Chicken Sandwich
    • Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Homefries
    • Smoked Chicken Wings and Hash Browns

    “We had a family brunch after a wedding. They folks here were very accommodating for our large group of 20 (I booked it well in advance). The food and the service waere excellent and everyone enjoyed our time there. Bottomless mimosas? Yes please! I highly recommend this place and will come back the next time I am in town.”

  • Aaktun Coffee, Restaurant and Bar 704 Ramseur Street, Durham Coffee & Tea · $$

    26 Aaktun Coffee, Restaurant and Bar

    4.4 Superb 153 Reviews

    704 Ramseur Street, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Tempura Fish Tacos 3

    “Across the board and incredible gem in Durham! Came for lunch and work and the staff was so courteous and accommodating. The food was AMAZING! The Jerk Chicken Plato was perfection. The vibe was awesome. It could be laid back but you can't help but feel you've been transported to somewhere exotic ✨💖”

  • The Goat Brier Creek 5600 Primary Drive, Durham Cocktail Bar · $$

    27 The Goat Brier Creek

    4.0 Good 460 Reviews

    5600 Primary Drive, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Korean Fried Chicken Wrap
    • Crispy Brussel Sprouts
    • Sweet Potato Cheesecake
    • Buffalo Cauliflower

    “I cannot say enough about the Goat in Durham at Brier Creek! We had a party for my son and new daughter in law Saturday 8/19 and it was everything we wanted and more!! Marianna saw to our every need, gave us extra tables, tablecloths…..whatever we needed. The food, drinks, atmosphere were perfect!!! We were all so happy and had a great time. If you have a social gathering, meeting or any kind of group situation, The Goat is the place to go and ask for Marianna for sure!!! Love this place!!!”

  • Flying Bull Restaurant and Brewery 300 Morris Street Ste 103, Durham Brewpubs · $$

    28 Flying Bull Restaurant and Brewery

    4.3 Superb 288 Reviews

    300 Morris Street Ste 103, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Gourmet Burger with Truffle Fries
    • Bangkok Meatloaf Sandwich
    • Grilled Chicken Sandwich
    • Half Sweet Potato Fries

    “We called 5 different restaurants to accommodate our party of 27 people for a surprise birthday party and were turned down because of the size of our party. We called Flying Bull Restaurant and Brewery and they not only said yes.. but heck yes! The service was amazing and the food was top notch! Can not recommend enough. Thank you for making our special persons birthday amazing 🩷”

  • Counting House 111 Corcoran Street, Durham Cocktail Bar · $$

    29 Counting House

    4.0 Good 507 Reviews

    111 Corcoran Street, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Short Ribs and Mashed Potatoes
    • Japanese Milk Bread
    • Egg White Frittata
    • The Bull Burger

    “Amazing experience. Delicious food and great quality. Server was excellent.”

  • The Restaurant at The Durham 315 E Chapel Hill St, Durham American · $

    30 The Restaurant at The Durham

    4.2 Good 239 Reviews

    315 E Chapel Hill St, Durham

    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • French Toast Fried Chicken
    • Pan Seared Black Bass
    • Cheese & Charcuterie
    • Guac and Toast

    “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”

  • The Roof at The Durham 315 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham Bar · $

    31 The Roof at The Durham

    4.1 Good 185 Reviews

    315 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham

    Customers’ favorites

    • Guacamole and Chips
    • Local Tomato
    • Charcuterie

    “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”

  • The Patio at Unscripted 202 Corcoran St, Durham American · $$$

    32 The Patio at Unscripted

    3.7 Good 189 Reviews

    202 Corcoran St, Durham

    • Take-Out

    Customers’ favorites

    • Vegetable Medley

    “We had a Wonderful time celebrating our Daughter's 25th birthday. Jonathan and Ty our wait staff were Awesome! The food, service and ambience were all outstanding. What a beautiful place to have right here in Durham "The Bull City."”

  • Dashi Ramen and Izakaya Cocktail Bar 415 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham Ramen · $$

    33 Dashi Ramen and Izakaya Cocktail Bar

    3.8 Good 410 Reviews

    415 East Chapel Hill Street, Durham

    • Take-Out
    • Delivery

    Customers’ favorites

    • Takoyaki Hushpuppies
    • Vegetarian Ramen
    • Grilled Edamame
    • Lamb Belly Buns

    “Honestly, the best ramen I’ve ever had! Definitely would recommend to friends!”

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