This guide covers 13 cocktail bar options in Durham. Guests rate them 4.6 out of 5 on average. Most of them are spread across Downtown, North Garrett Road, Old North Durham, so those are the areas to start with.

All Cocktail bar in Durham

Boxcar Bar + Arcade

4.5 2,157 reviews

Boxcar Bar + Arcade is a hospitality and entertainment company that operates multiple locations across North Carolina. It offers a unique experience that combines games, drinks, pizza, and events in an eclectic and welcoming atmosphere. Each location has its own personality and curated mix of games, drinks, and food offerings. Boxcar Bar + Arcade features a wide variety of games, including classic arcade machines, pinball tables, and skee-ball. Its selection of drinks includes craft beer on tap, as well as other beverages, and it serves made-to-order pizzas, salads, and soft pretzels. The company also hosts tournaments and events, including regular free tournaments and themed nights. Its welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great place for socializing and having a good time. Boxcar Bar + Arcade is a great destination for urban professionals, college students, and anyone looking for a fun and unique experience. Its multiple locations in North Carolina offer a range of options for those looking for a night out, and its commitment to making each guest's night a great one makes it a popular choice for those seeking a memorable experience.

Opening hours
  • Monday5 PM–12 AM
  • Tuesday5 PM–12 AM
  • Wednesday5 PM–1 AM
  • Thursday5 PM–1 AM
  • Friday4 PM–1 AM
  • Saturday12 PM–1 AM
  • Sunday12 PM–12 AM

Bar Virgile

4.6 851 reviews

Bar Virgile is a unique restaurant with artfully crafted food and beverages served in a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere. It boasts one of the largest spirits collections in the Triangle, specializing in craft and classic cocktails and seasonal fare. The restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Durham and offers a wide variety of whiskey, gin, rum, agave, and much more. Its focus is on craft and classic cocktails as well as seasonal offerings, with a team that prides itself on technique, quality ingredients, and warm hospitality. Bar Virgile offers a unique experience for its patrons, with a menu that changes seasonally and a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as cozy and welcoming, making it a popular spot for both food and drinks. The bar is known for its extensive selection of spirits, with a particular emphasis on whiskey, gin, and rum. Its menu includes a wide variety of options, from classic cocktails to seasonal small plates. Bar Virgile is a popular destination for those looking for a unique dining experience in downtown Durham. Its menu is designed to change seasonally, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and a wide variety of options to suit any taste. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as cozy and welcoming, making it a great spot to meet with friends or enjoy a romantic evening out. With its extensive selection of spirits and a focus on craft and classic cocktails, Bar Virgile is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a high-quality dining experience in the Triangle area.

Opening hours
  • Monday5 PM–12 AM
  • Tuesday5 PM–12 AM
  • Wednesday5 PM–12 AM
  • Thursday5 PM–12 AM
  • Friday5 PM–12 AM
  • Saturday5 PM–12 AM
  • SundayClosed

Alley Twenty Six

4.6 1,208 reviews

Alley Twenty Six is a local cocktail bar and restaurant located in Durham, N.C. It features upscale food and cocktail pairings in a relaxed setting. Alley Twenty Six offers a diverse menu that includes dishes like the foie gras burger and blistered shishito peppers, complemented by an extensive selection of craft cocktails. The bar is renowned for its innovative approach to dining and mixology, with knowledgeable bartenders creating unique and delicious drinks, including custom cocktails tailored to individual preferences. The restaurant has a cozy, refined, and intimate ambiance, making it suitable for various occasions. Alley Twenty Six has gained recognition for its exceptional cocktails, with many reviewers praising the bartenders' skill and passion for their craft. The bar's commitment to quality is evident in its use of homemade mixers and high-end liquors, contributing to a sophisticated drinking experience. The restaurant's food is described as well-prepared, flavorful, and made with fresh, high-quality ingredients, with popular dishes including the pimento cheese appetizer, Alley Burger, and fried cauliflower.

Opening hours
  • MondayClosed
  • Tuesday4 PM–12 AM
  • Wednesday4 PM–12 AM
  • Thursday4 PM–12 AM
  • Friday4 PM–12 AM
  • Saturday4 PM–12 AM
  • Sunday4 PM–12 AM