19 Best Wine Bars in Durham

“What a genuine delight. Please be sure to stop here“

“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.“

“A lovely wine bar with a wonderful selection of orange wine! I stopped by again on my birthday a few weeks ago, and was warmly welcomed by the owner Esteban. I think Brunello focuses more on the wine than the bar. In other words, it’s a great place to try out and get educated on new wine, but it’s less “vibe-y” as a bar. I wonder if softer chairs/a couch would help. Overall highly recommend!!“

“I am giving this place four stars because they had a vegan dessert, sandwich, and an appetizer or two, as well as apparently vegan cocktails. We ordered dessert only. The vegan dessert is This Dessert is Bananas, which is a banana blondie, oatmilk vanilla ice cream and vegan caramel sauce. It was a lovely evening and we sat outside, although their indoor seating area was pleasant as well. We really enjoyed our desserts. The server said they always have a vegan sandwich that is vegan as-is, but are happy to veganize other items. She said they try to always have three vegan cheeses, which last night were feta, gouda and I forgot the last one! Anyway, really nice place, open late, easy parking, something for omnivores and vegans and gluten free (omnivores) as well. Note this is a second-story restaurant, you will have to climb stairs.“

“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.“

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

“Wonderful staff and incredible wine selections.

The only thing they’re missing is a menu that is better curated to their wine list, even better light snacks than the chips or (in my opinion overpriced) prepackaged cheese would go a long way. Though to be fair, it does seem like you can bring your own food in so that is an option.“

“Outstanding, wonderful, amazing! It was beyond our expectations! The servers were extremely knowledgeable about the wines and the food pairings. We were able to talk with the chef too who was extremely kind. The atmosphere, wine, and food were absolutely amazing!“

“Low key the most reliably delicious beers in durham. Never had a bad beer by them. They always have something interesting too (not just an IPA warehouse). What’s more impressive is that they keep this 5 star rating consistent while also changing up their menu regularly (unlike horse-dinosaur and others)Gotta love the view of the park as well. A+ brewery“

“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“

“The food was amazing and the service superb!! Definitely recommend for an amazing brunch!“

“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).“

“Tried for the first time tonight and I will definitely be returning!! Everything we tried was fabulous, from the queso to the sopes! They were so so Good!! Very friendly staff (attentive) we had three different people check on us! I would give them 10/10! Must try!!“

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

“Join the Open Mic Series on the last Wednesday of every month! FREE ENTRY. GREAT VIBES.“

“Truly authentic Italian cuisine! We had the most perfect night~ The owner and chef prepared a chefs meal for the 4 of us and everything was so delicious! Great atmosphere and wine too!! Our new favorite local restaurant!“

“Thanksgiving Day feast was wonderful. Food well prepared and tasty. Service was impeccable. Price reasonable. Owner was gracious and has doneca great job with food and staff. Highly recommend.“

“Started my birthday celebration there. So appreciative of the assistance in choosing the ‘right’ wines for my palette.“

“Great experience but a little pricey.“