Uncovering the Mural City’s Hidden Gems
Ah, Durham – the Bull City, the Mural City, the place where art and libations come together in the most delightful way. As a self-proclaimed explorer of all things delicious and visually captivating, I simply had to dive into this vibrant city and uncover its most innovative food and drink pairings.
Let me tell you, Durham doesn’t disappoint. It’s like this place is on a mission to delight our senses – from the stunning murals that transform ordinary walls into works of art, to the local businesses that are creating some truly unique flavor experiences. So, strap in, because I’m about to take you on a journey that will make your taste buds dance and your eyes light up.
Pairing History and Caffeine
We’ll start our mural-fueled adventure at the Durham Civil Rights Mural. This powerful piece, created by 30 community members under the leadership of artist Brenda Miller Holmes and Dr. Benjamin Speller, tells the lesser-known stories of Durham’s local civil rights movement. It’s a breathtaking tribute to the activists whose sacrifices brought about change.
Now, what better way to immerse yourself in this rich history than with a piping hot latte from Gojo by Goorsha, a nearby Black-owned café? As you sip on that smooth, aromatic brew, you can’t help but feel a deeper connection to the stories etched onto the wall before you. It’s a pairing that not only delights the senses but also nourishes the soul.
Buzzing with Beekeeping Inspiration
Next, let’s head over to the Swarm mural, located on the side of Burt’s Bees headquarters on the American Tobacco Campus. This vibrant mural, created by Matthew Willey of the Good of the Hive Initiative, celebrates the amazing behaviors of our little buzzing friends.
To truly immerse yourself in this hive-inspired experience, I’d recommend pairing it with a refreshing iced coffee or chai tea from Parker & Otis. As you sip and stare, take a moment to appreciate the hard work and dedication of these tiny pollinators, and how they inspire us to be more mindful of our impact on the environment.
Multicultural Murals and Matcha Madness
Now, let’s head over to the UHill Walls, where you’ll find not one, not two, but over 40,000 square feet of murals created by local, national, and international artists. It’s a veritable feast for the eyes, and the perfect backdrop for a delightful beverage.
I’d recommend pairing this mural-viewing experience with a matcha latte from Namu, a nearby restaurant, coffee shop, and beer hall with a Korean-inspired menu. The earthy, frothy goodness of the matcha perfectly complements the vibrant, multicultural spirit of the UHill Walls, creating a harmonious sensory experience.
Blending Books, Beverages, and Murals
Now, let’s head over to the Rofhiwa Book Café, a newly opened gem that’s focused on uplifting Black history, culture, and literature. Outside their building, you’ll find a large Pepsi mural that has been preserved over the years, a perfect visual backdrop for your literary and libation exploration.
As you browse the shelves for the perfect read, be sure to treat yourself to a refreshing hibiscus refresher. The vibrant, tart flavor of the hibiscus will awaken your senses, while the carefully curated book selection nourishes your mind. It’s a pairing that celebrates the power of community, education, and the arts.
Horns, Cocktails, and a Bull-ish Mural
Now, let’s head to the Grab Life by the Horns mural, located in a private courtyard. This hidden gem, painted by Victor Knight in 2017, embodies Durham’s spirit – a bull taking life head-on.
To truly savor this experience, I’d recommend grabbing a non-alcoholic piña colada from Alley Twenty Six, a local cocktail bar and restaurant. As you sip on the refreshing, creamy concoction, let the bold imagery of the mural inspire you to approach life with the same fearlessness and determination as the majestic bull.
Trailblazing Murals and Kava Kicks
Last, but certainly not least, let’s venture to the Pauli Murray murals, which were created between 2007 and 2009 as part of the Face Up Telling Stories of Community Life collaborative public art project. These murals honor the life and legacy of Pauli Murray, a trailblazing civil rights activist, author, and the first African American female Episcopal priest.
To complement this powerful display, I’d recommend visiting Da Kines Kava, a newly opened kava shop on Chapel Hill Street. Sip on a haleakala sunrise, a non-alcoholic kava cocktail, as you immerse yourself in the inspiring stories told through these murals. The earthy, calming notes of the kava will help you fully appreciate the significance of Pauli Murray’s life and work.
Uncovering Durham’s Delicious Secrets
As I wandered through the streets of Durham, exploring the vibrant murals and pairing them with innovative local offerings, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder and excitement. This city is truly a feast for the senses, where art, history, and culinary creativity collide in the most delightful way.
From the rich, aromatic lattes that complement the powerful civil rights murals to the refreshing, kava-infused beverages that elevate the Pauli Murray experience, Durham has a way of elevating even the most ordinary moments into extraordinary ones. It’s a place that celebrates the unique, the bold, and the imaginative – and it’s all just waiting to be discovered.
So, my fellow adventurers, what are you waiting for? Head on over to The Up & Under Pub, where you can fuel up for your own mural-fueled, drink-inspired journey through the dynamic city of Durham. Trust me, your senses are in for a real treat.
