The Best Cocktails & Cocktail Bars in Durham

Cocktail connoisseurs know, Durham’s bars and restaurants are serving up drinks to impress even the most discerning palate. With North Carolina’s first two James Beard Award-nominated bar programs and dozens more bars and restaurants where you can order an expertly made drink, Durham’s cocktail scene is on par with its brewery and food scenes.

Our mixologists and bartenders go beyond shaking and stirring to innovate techniques, infuse flavors and collaborate with their local industry colleagues to create uniquely Durham drinks you won’t find anywhere else. We’ve rounded up some of the best cocktails at restaurants and bars across the city, so the only decision you’ll have to make is this: up or on the rocks?

Nationally Recognized Bars

Since 2012, the James Beard Foundation’s national Outstanding Bar Program category has recognized talent in the cocktail industry. The awards are nominated and voted on by industry professionals, the recognized work sets the bar. For those who know and love cocktails, JBF nominees form a bucket list of can’t-miss spots across the country. So, when the first two category nominees in North Carolina occupied the same downtown block, the city’s status in the industry was sealed. Durham’s cocktail bars aren’t just friendly watering holes, they’re tastemakers. Their work sets the standard against which others are measured.

Alley Twenty Six

When Alley Twenty Six opened its doors downtown in 2012, it was downtown’s only craft cocktail bar. Owner Shannon Healy has pioneered the scene while prioritizing a friendly and approachable space. Be adventurous and order a Mexican Herbalist (choose the off-menu version made with mezcal instead of tequila and you’ll be welcomed like an old friend) or choose a leveled-up gin and tonic made with local Durham Distillery gin and house made tonic and find out what makes this spot an enduring favorite. And it doesn’t stop with cocktails here. Burgers and tinned fish platters satiate late-night cravings while local acts entertain with live music.

Kingfisher

This underground spot is just across the street from Alley Twenty Six, making the East Chapel Hill Street block a craft cocktail hotspot. Specializing in ground-to-glass cocktails made in handmade ceramic glassware (by co-owner Michelle Vanderwalker), this sultry spot hosts regular jazz nights and opens its backyard garden for drinks among the lush greenery. If you get hungry, order from the snacks menu or head upstairs to sister establishment Queeny’s where more substantial eats are served until late.

Great Martinis

The ultimate classic. When you’re in the mood for a martini, nothing else will do. And since Durham is home to Durham Distillery, makers of Conniption Gins which are consistently ranked as some of the world’s best, it follows that our martinis can’t be matched.

Corpse Reviver Bar and Lounge

Named for the classic cocktail and the subterranean space’s previous life as a coffin shop, this Art Deco spot is owned by the team behind Durham Distillery. If you’re a gin drinker, look no further, but don’t sleep on the spirit maker’s other liqueurs and spirits. The full list of classic martini iterations hits all the must-haves, as long as they include gin. Take a trip back in time to the original martini: the Martinez. It’s made with gin, sweet vermouth, Luxardo liqueur, orange bitters and orange peel. Or, if you're looking for something more modern, try the Dirty Martini with bacon blue cheese-stuffed olives.

Nanas

Nanas in Rockwood is the second life of an iconic Durham institution restaurant with a swanky interior makeover and a menu that highlights local, seasonal ingredients and honors popular menu items from the ‘90s and ‘00s original. It tracks that the martini is a nod to the version from the legendary Duke’s in London. Made with frozen London Dry gin, the menu says it’s “the classic, only colder.” Served with olives or a twist. Limit two per customer.

Liberty and Plenty Cocktail Bar and Distillery

We know, plenty of folks like their martinis made with vodka, not gin. May we suggest the cocktail bar at Liberty and Plenty Distillery, makers of Slate Belt Vodka, Cap & Cane Rum, Whirligarden gins and Bronze Bull whiskies and bourbons. The Slate Belt Cold Distilled Citrus Vodka makes a truly standout martini. Purists who are skeptical of flavored vodka, hear me out. This vodka is cold distilled with Georgia satsuma, yuzu, lemon, orange and lime peels. The process extracts the pure citrus flavor without the sweetness or juicy flavor you’d expect from a flavored vodka. The martini is bone dry, citrusy and delicious. If you’re in the mood for an espresso martini, L&P’s is made with the distillery’s own Cap & Cane Coffee Rum.

Hotel Bars

You’ve arrived, checked in, and now it’s time to start your vacation. Luckily, here in Durham, it’s easy to enjoy a great cocktail without leaving the hotel property. Far from the stuffy lobby you might imagine, some of our can’t miss spots are found in hotels.

Counting House

This first-floor restaurant and bar in the 21c Museum Hotel not only serves great cocktails, you can enjoy them at the bar, in the restaurant, while you take in the art in the adjacent museum (open 24/7) or even explore the original bank-vault-turned-lounge space downstairs for a photo opp.

The Roof at The Durham

The name says it all. The Roof at The Durham is a go-to spot for sunset views, lounging on the couches or dining on snacks at a table. Regular events and live music draw crowds of Durhamites and visitors while heaters and enclosures make it comfortable year-round.

Bull Durham Bar at Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club

If you’re looking for the classic dark wood tones and plush leather seating of a golf club bar, look to the Bull Durham Bar at Washington Duke Inn. Perfect for a drink after a round of golf or a relaxing evening on the terrace, you can opt for a casual dinner or a cocktail by the fireplace. Expect to see fans filter in and out before and after Duke home games.

Classic Cocktails

When you know what you like, you know what you like, and there’s a reason the classics have stood the test of time. At these great bars, count on expert bartenders to execute your order according to your expectations.

NanaSteak

A classic steakhouse with great cocktails makes for a perfect night out. Step outside your usual with riffs on martinis, old fashioneds and more on the cocktail menu, or trust the professionals to get your order just right. And if you’d like to start with a cocktail and enjoy wine pairings with your meal, you’ll be pleased to discover the wine list was recognized with Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence in 2023.

Seraphine

Cocktails at a bar inspired by one of the biggest cocktail capitals in the country certainly won’t disappoint. Imagine you’re in the French Quarter at the Sazerac Bar or French 75 Bar as you sip their namesake cocktails and slurp oysters.

Bar Virgile

At this home of one of Durham’s best burgers, crowds gather to eat and drink before and after shows at DPAC. The cocktails aren’t just run-of-the-mill libations geared toward the Broadway crowd – the bar is beloved for reliably excellent drinks – notably, the elusive Ramos Gin Fizz. Grab a seat at the bar and watch as the bartenders commit to the lengthy dry shake that emulsifies the egg white and cream into a velvety smooth froth. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

Cocktails with Great Soundtracks

The vibes are immaculate at spots that are as thoughtful about their tunes as they are about their cocktails.

Annexe

At this tropical downstairs sister to Bar Virgile’s elevated bar setting, the atmosphere is relaxed, even a little funky. Regular DJs keep the music pumping on weekend nights. Weekdays, themed nights rotate between karaoke, open decks, BYO vinyl and more. Honestly, the bar could be a hit even without great drinks. However, you’re in luck because the classic Tiki drinks and riffs on historic staples mean you’ll want to come for the drinks and stay for the music.

Arcana Bar and Lounge

Equal parts art space, queer community hangout and bar, you don’t have to be into cocktails to have a great time at Arcana. One of only 33 bars in the U.S. recognized by The Lesbian Bar Project, events like Goth Prom and Queer Disco are scheduled between regular tarot card nights, themed dance parties, burlesque shows, open mic nights and more to make this a gathering spot for lovers of nightlife and self-expression. The drinks includes some of the most creative non-alcoholic beverages in the city, homemade shrubs and classic cocktails.

Littler

Intimate, cozy, private … Littler is a small restaurant with a reputation for big flavors on its food and drink menus. Limited seating means thoughtfully sourced, seasonal and local products are handpicked for quality, peak ripeness and aesthetic beauty before they hit the plate or the glass. It’s a favorite for dinner, but the bar is equally worth a visit, especially for audiophiles who appreciate the sound of a reel-to-reel deck or vinyl records. Nerd out over the sound system and vintage music selection as you ponder the daring flavor pairings in your glass. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can’t go wrong with the ‘bartender’s choice’ drink option. Just give your server your favorite spirits and flavors so the bartenders can make the craft cocktail of your dreams.

Over the Top Margaritas

When in doubt, order a margarita. Durham’s a low-key margarita town where fresh juice, surprising ingredients and modern techniques satisfy, surprise and impress. And don’t worry, we’ve got the classic, oversize party margaritas, too.

La Mala

Find Mexican-inspired drinks and street food with a prime downtown streetside view at this modern bar and lounge where the lights are low, the music is pumping and the walls are filled with vibrant art. Handcrafted cocktails are made with fresh fruit juice and garnishes like foams, gold flakes and even submerged, glowing lights, making them delicious and photo-worthy.

Aperitif

Aperitif is a cocktail oasis on 15-501, where you can enjoy a handcrafted beverage and a snack on the terrace after an afternoon of shopping. There are plenty of signature and seasonal cocktails to choose from, but the Small Flightless Bird From New Zealand is a version of a margarita that includes the addition of fresh kiwi for a juicy take on the original.

Little Bull

Little Bull’s Pocho cuisine combines Chef Oscar Diaz’s considerable fine dining experience with his Mexican heritage and Chicago upbringing for a fusion of flavor, technique and personality. His talent and bold choices come across as swagger on the plate and in the glass – captured perfectly by the margarita. Trendy mixology tactics are employed to perfectly clarify the cocktail to crystal clear, served in a cut glass rocks tumbler and garnished with a dehydrated lime round. The drink is unrecognizable to the eye and unmistakable to the tastebuds.

Mezcalito Durham

This Tex-Mex restaurant and tequila bar brought the party to Ramseur Street in a big way. Bar patrons get front-row seating for the bartenders sending out beautiful cocktails with over-the-top garnishes. You’ll be shocked at the volume of fruit that enters whole and leaves in liquid form. Come with a crew to share drinks made in a glass, a shaker, 40-ounce, 90-ounce or five-liter containers.

Pizzeria Toro

You may question a margarita recommendation at a pizza place, but trust and believe. The addition of Aperol gives it the perfect Italian twist – its sweet, bitter, fruity flavor softens the tart lime and strong tequila to allow the cocktail to pair perfectly with pizza. Head to the side bar for first come, first served bar seating, and even stay for a pizza.

Eye-Catching, Creative Cocktails

What’s wrong with a cocktail and a show? What these cocktails may bring in drama, they never lack in nuanced flavor and high quality.

The Waiting Room

Got a bit of time to spare before your dinner reservation or want a nightcap after a show at DPAC? Settle into the plush seating and slick interior design at The Waiting Room and be wowed by the gorgeous cocktail that comes your way. If you’re in the mood for a smoky drink, order The Smoking Jacket and watch as the bartender lights a custom cherry wood smoker before your eyes. If you aren’t drinking, don’t miss the non-alcoholic cocktail section of the menu.

The Velvet Hippo

Rooftop views, community-driven events, elevated snacks and drinks look every bit as good as they taste – it’s all vacation vibes at The Velvet Hippo. Try a tiki-inspired swizzle from the signature cocktails list or the daily flavor of frozen “concoctions.”

Dram & Draught

Dram & Draught has the vibe of a neighborhood bar and an impressive lineup of over 300 whiskeys. If you’re not there to sip something neat, try a craft cocktail from the seasonally changing menu. The bar loves a theme! Expect Mint Juleps for the Kentucky Derby, a rainbow of colorful drinks for Pride and more throughout the year.

Frozen Cocktails

When you’re in the mood for a frozen drink, nothing else will do. Luckily, Durham’s got plenty of spinning slushy machines to satisfy your cravings.

Lagoon Bar

If you’ve never been to Boxyard RTP, Lagoon Bar is reason enough to make the trip – and luckily, you’ll have plenty of options for food and entertainment when you arrive. As for the cocktails, you can lounge on the top deck with a tiki drink and imagine you’re on an island in the sea instead of an island among a sea of office parks. You can’t leave without trying the frozen N’icees in a rotating tropical flavors.

The Slush

Downtown’s dedicated slushy lounge – where the options for flavor combinations and toppings are nearly endless. Satisfy your sweet tooth with juicy flavors topped with candy or go with something a little more traditional. Fan of an Old Fashioned? The menu of tested-and-approved mixtures will guide you on your way. Want to concoct your own colorful combo? Go nuts.

Dashi

You may be familiar with Dashi’s Ramen Bar, but a peek behind door number two will lead you to the upstairs Izakaya, where a menu of Japanese-inspired snacks accompanies the excellent cocktails and sake menu. You won’t go wrong with a drink from the list, but the frozen cocktails are always a hit.

International Flavors

Diversity in Durham brings many perks beyond rich cultural traditions and welcoming communities. There are also many small businesses dedicated to sharing the artistry, artisanship and flavors of the owners’ cultural heritage. There are many cuisines represented here and, in several instances, the authentic ingredients found on food menus make their way to the drinks as well.

Ekhaya

Chef Zweli Williams shares the flavors of her upbringing in southeast Africa through the Bantu small plates at Ekhaya as well as through the cocktails. Pair popular dishes like Dovi Rice Bites and Nigerian-inspired kabobs with equally punchy drinks like the Banana Mojito, Tamarind Old Fashioned and more.

Juju Asian Bar & Tapas

Few things could be better than a spread of dumplings, buns and modern takes on classic Chinese takeout dishes, plus drinks made to perfectly match the dishes. With ingredients like Chinese five spice, yuzu, nigori sake and plenty of ginger, you’ll want to try everything on the menu.

Krill

With a tagline like “Far East Funk,” the fish sauce, Thai chili and citrus-infused menu items should come as no surprise. And, of course, the drinks menu doesn’t shy away from the Southeast Asian-inspired theme. Sections span from bubbly to funky with familiar favorites like Lychee Martinis alongside originals featuring house made ingredients like coconut water orgeat.

M Pocha

A window-lined corner location in downtown’s Five Points and Asian street food-inspired menu items make this spot an easy place to post up for a few snacks while people watching, and a menu of curious cocktails will hold your attention for a while as well. Flavors range from smoky mezcal to floral orange blossom to a tropical rum punch. If tasting bekseju (Korean herb wine) has been on your bucket list, or you’re in the mood to experiment with a dark chocolate squid ink drizzle, schedule a stop at M Pocha.

Bar Beej

Chef Preeti Waas has captured the attention of Durhamites (and the James Beard Foundation) with her homestyle, regional cooking at Cheeni in downtown Durham. Since summer 2024, she’s also satisfying the nightlife crowd with Bar Beej, tucked in right next door to the restaurant. Creative craft cocktails – including non-alcoholic options – pair perfectly with bar bites. Don’t miss the chance to catch the occasional dance party, Chennai Bus, hosted in the space.

Niche Menus

Ever heard the term committing to the bit? Well, the cuisine and bar programs at downtown sister restaurants Mateo and Mothers and Sons are no joke.

Mateo Bar de Tapas

A Spanish restaurant with a Southern soul. Here, you’ll find some of Durham’s best tapas dishes, paella for the table, seasonal vegetables and … a tasteful smattering of Duke’s mayonnaise. Yes, there’s Cheerwine in the sangria, but the commitment to Spanish bar culture will keep you coming back. Don’t overlook the extensive sherry menu – one of the largest in the country.

Mothers & Sons Trattoria

If you know Italian cuisine and dining culture, you know there’s always a bitters-infused beverage ready to kick-start your metabolism before a meal (Aperitivo) or to settle your stomach (Amaro) after a convivial, multi-course affair. For those who know, Mothers and Sons is worth a stop for the amaro menu alone. Where else can you taste Fernet from the 1960s, ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s next to the original?

Classic Cocktails with a Twist

That feeling when you know what you like but you’re also open to suggestions. Trust the mixologists at these spots to add a surprising tweak to your usual drink for an all-new experience.

Lula & Sadie’s

Chef Harry Monds takes the inspiration for his neighborhood Southern restaurant from his grandmothers, even naming the restaurant after them. The bar menu is equally Southern inspired with seasonal and thematic flavors added to the classic cocktails. Want an extra special Valentine’s Day cocktail? This is your spot. And if you can’t decide on just one, never fear. Flights of whiskey cocktails and mimosas allow you to experience a range of flavors.

Bull City Solera

Fans of Bull City Burger and Brewery will be thrilled to see barrel-aged versions of the downtown brewery’s popular brews here, but the cocktail menu brings a local focus to the ingredients. Using Durham-based and North Carolina-made spirits where possible along with other seasonal and local ingredients and shrubs, the drinks bring a fresh take on the tried-and-true.

Local 22 Kitchen & Bar

As the name suggests, this spot keeps its menus focused on local sourcing – you can see for yourself on the chalkboard featuring the names of local farms and partners with products holding space on the menu. Following seasonality, you’ll find a cocktail menu that makes use of what’s available while centering Southern classics like the Peanuts n’ Co-Cola – if you know, you know, and if you don’t know, you should try it.