Raising a Glass to Durham’s Vibrant Drink Scene
As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of all things food and drink, there’s nothing I love more than discovering hidden gems in my own backyard. And let me tell you, the Bull City is brimming with exciting new watering holes that are shaking up the beverage landscape.
From craft breweries pushing the boundaries of flavor to cozy cocktail lounges that transport you to another era, Durham’s drink scene is hotter than a freshly poured pint of Fullsteam’s Carver. And as someone who practically lives at The Up & Under Pub, I’ve made it my mission to sip and savor my way through the city’s newest spots.
Let me take you on a journey through Durham’s vibrant drink scene, where signature pairings and boundary-pushing concoctions await around every corner. Buckle up, because this is going to be one boozy adventure you won’t soon forget.
Crafting Cocktail Magic at State of Golf
If you’re looking to elevate your happy hour game, then State of Golf is the place for you. This high-tech oasis nestled in the American Tobacco Campus isn’t your average sports bar – it’s a veritable playground for the discerning drinker.
As soon as I walked through the door, I was captivated by the sleek, modern vibe. The fully stocked bar boasts an impressive selection of craft cocktails, local brews, and fine wines, all thoughtfully curated to pair seamlessly with the bar’s main attraction: state-of-the-art golf simulators.
“Whether you’re a pro gamer, a seasoned golfer, or just looking to hang out with friends, State of Golf has something for everyone,” says manager Tiffany Nguyen. “Our goal is to create an elevated, high-tech experience that brings people together over great drinks and friendly competition.”
I decided to start with the house specialty, the “Hole-in-One.” This refreshing concoction blends Bombay Sapphire gin, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and a splash of prosecco – the perfect aperitif to whet my appetite for the round of virtual golf to come.
As I stepped up to the simulator, club in hand, I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the immersive, true-to-life visuals. With each swing, I was transported to some of the world’s most iconic courses, my muscles tensing in anticipation of that satisfying thwack of club meeting ball.
Between holes, I retreated to the plush lounge area, sinking into an overstuffed chair and sipping on a creamy Irish coffee. The combination of the rich, velvety drink and the cozy ambiance was the perfect antidote to my putting woes.
“We wanted to create a space that feels elevated and sophisticated, but still super welcoming and inclusive,” Tiffany explains. “Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking to try something new, we want everyone to feel comfortable and have a blast.”
And that’s exactly what I did – from nailing a perfect drive on the 18th hole at Pebble Beach to discovering a new favorite cocktail, my visit to State of Golf was an absolute hole-in-one.
Raising the Bar at Proximity Brewery
If there’s one thing Durham does exceptionally well, it’s craft beer. And the city’s newest brewery, Proximity, is elevating the brew game to new heights.
As the first Black-owned brewery in the Bull City, Proximity is making waves with its innovative, North Carolina-inspired offerings. From the signature West Coast-style IPA crafted in collaboration with Fullsteam Brewery to the crisp, citrusy Kolsch, every sip is a masterclass in balance and complexity.
“We wanted to create a space that celebrates the diversity and rich culture of Durham,” says co-founder Aris Marton. “Our beers are a reflection of that – they’re bold, they’re unapologetic, and they’re designed to bring people together.”
And that they do. The moment I stepped into Proximity’s sleek, industrial-chic taproom, I was struck by the warm, inclusive atmosphere. Clusters of friends and families mingled around high-top tables, sipping on drafts and sharing flights, while the hum of lively conversation filled the air.
Determined to sample the full range of Proximity’s offerings, I started with the signature “Proximity IPA.” The moment the hoppy, citrusy notes hit my tongue, I was hooked. It was the perfect balance of bitterness and bright, juicy flavor – a true masterclass in West Coast IPA craftsmanship.
As I moved on to the “Proximity Kolsch,” I was pleasantly surprised by its crisp, refreshing profile. “We wanted to create a beer that could be enjoyed year-round,” Aris explains. “The Kolsch is a true crowd-pleaser – it’s light and sessionable, but still has plenty of character.”
But the real showstopper, in my humble opinion, was the “Proximity Porter.” This rich, velvety brew was the perfect antidote to the summer heat, with notes of dark chocolate and toasted malt that lingered on the palate. I could practically envision myself sipping it by a cozy fireplace on a chilly winter night.
What I love most about Proximity, though, is the way it seamlessly blends its commitment to quality and innovation with a genuine sense of community. “At the end of the day, we’re not just brewing beer,” Aris says. “We’re creating a space for people to come together, connect, and celebrate the incredible diversity of Durham.”
As I reluctantly bid farewell to my flight of Proximity masterpieces, I couldn’t help but feel inspired. This brewery is redefining what it means to be a local watering hole – one perfectly poured pint at a time.
Toasting to Tradition at Zwelis Kitchen
If you’re looking to take your taste buds on a global adventure, look no further than Zwelis Kitchen. This celebrated Zimbabwean restaurant has been making waves in the Durham food scene, and for good reason.
I’ve been a loyal patron of Zwelis since they first opened their doors, and I can say with absolute certainty that their food is nothing short of life-changing. But what really sets this place apart is the way they’ve managed to seamlessly blend traditional flavors with a modern, globally-inspired twist.
“At Zwelis, we’re all about honoring the rich culinary traditions of Zimbabwe while also pushing the boundaries of what African cuisine can be,” says co-owner Zweli Williams. “Our goal is to create dishes that are not only delicious, but that also tell a story about the diversity and vibrancy of our culture.”
And boy, do they deliver. From the moment I step through the door, I’m transported to another world, enveloped by the warm, spice-infused aromas that fill the air. The menu is a veritable treasure trove of Zimbabwean classics, from the tender, slow-cooked oxtails to the addictive piri piri chicken.
But it’s the drinks menu that really caught my eye on my most recent visit. Zwelis has recently unveiled a new cocktail program that pays homage to the flavors of Zimbabwe, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.
I started with the “African 75,” a fizzy, refreshing take on the classic French 75. Made with Conniption Kinship Gin, frozen fruit, and a splash of bubbly, it was the perfect aperitif to whet my appetite. But the real showstopper was the “Dovi Toddy,” a warm, cozy concoction that blended spiced rum, peanut butter, and the signature dovi peanut sauce that Zwelis is famous for.
As I sipped my cocktail, savoring the interplay of sweet, savory, and just a hint of heat, I couldn’t help but marvel at the level of care and attention that had gone into crafting these drinks. “We wanted to create a beverage program that really captured the essence of Zimbabwean cuisine,” Zweli explains. “These cocktails are a celebration of our culture and our history, and we’re thrilled to be able to share them with the Durham community.”
And share they have. With each sip, I felt a deeper connection to the vibrant, dynamic culture that Zwelis Kitchen represents. It’s not just a restaurant – it’s a portal to another world, where the line between food and drink, tradition and innovation, is beautifully blurred.
So, the next time you find yourself craving a taste of something new and exciting, head on over to Zwelis Kitchen. Just be sure to come hungry – and thirsty.
Mixing Up Magic at The Velvet Hippo
If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Durham, it’s that the city loves a good party. And nowhere is that more apparent than at The Velvet Hippo, the newest addition to the downtown bar scene.
This self-proclaimed “neighborhood bar for music lovers” is like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. From the moment I stepped through the door, I was enveloped by a lively, eclectic energy that was equal parts sophisticated and utterly irresistible.
The space itself is a visual feast, with rich, jewel-toned accents, plush velvet furnishings, and a stunning rooftop oasis that offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. But it’s the cocktail program that really sets The Velvet Hippo apart.
“We wanted to create a bar that was equal parts indulgent and inclusive,” says co-owner Lindsey Andrews. “Our mission is to bring people together over great music, amazing drinks, and a genuine sense of community.”
And that’s exactly what they’ve done. The cocktail menu is a veritable work of art, featuring innovative, flavor-forward concoctions that showcase the creativity and expertise of the bar’s talented mixologists.
I started with the “Velvet Sunrise,” a refreshing blend of gin, elderflower, grapefruit, and a touch of champagne. The bright, citrusy notes danced on my tongue, the perfect complement to the bar’s lively, energetic atmosphere.
But it was the “Velvet Affair” that really had me swooning. This rich, velvety libation combined Maker’s Mark bourbon, coffee liqueur, and a splash of cream, creating a decadent, indulgent sip that was like a grown-up version of my favorite childhood treat.
As I savored each sip, I couldn’t help but marvel at the level of detail and craftsmanship that had gone into these cocktails. “We’re really focused on using high-quality ingredients and pushing the boundaries of what a cocktail can be,” Lindsey explains. “Our goal is to create drinks that are not only delicious, but that also tell a story about the incredible talent and creativity of our team.”
And the story they’re telling is one of pure, unadulterated joy. From the lively, eclectic playlist that had me tapping my toes to the effortlessly cool, welcoming vibe, every aspect of The Velvet Hippo screams “party time.”
“At the end of the day, we just want people to come in, let loose, and have a great time,” Lindsey says. “Whether you’re here for the music, the drinks, or just the sheer energy of the place, we want you to leave feeling inspired, connected, and ready to come back for more.”
And that’s exactly what I did. As I reluctantly bid farewell to my second (or was it third?) Velvet Affair, I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sadness. But I knew that it wouldn’t be long before I found myself back at this little slice of cocktail heaven, ready to sip, savor, and dance the night away.
Raising a Glass to Durham’s Drink Scene
As I reflect on my whirlwind tour of Durham’s newest watering holes, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude and excitement for the incredible drink scene that’s blossoming in this city.
From the high-tech, golf-inspired oasis of State of Golf to the boundary-pushing brews of Proximity Brewery, each of these establishments has managed to carve out its own unique niche, offering something truly special and unforgettable.
But what truly sets them apart, in my opinion, is the way they’ve seamlessly blended innovation and tradition, creating experiences that are both cutting-edge and deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Bull City.
At Zwelis Kitchen, I was transported to the vibrant streets of Zimbabwe, sipping on cocktails that paid homage to the flavors and aromas of my host’s homeland. And at The Velvet Hippo, I was swept up in a whirlwind of energy and creativity, surrounded by the sounds of live music and the clinking of glasses.
These are the kinds of experiences that make Durham’s drink scene so special – a place where the past and the present, the local and the global, all come together in a harmonious, intoxicating dance.
So, the next time you find yourself in the Bull City, be sure to raise a glass to the incredible watering holes that are shaping the future of Durham’s beverage landscape. From craft brews to signature cocktails, there’s something to delight every palate and quench every thirst.
After all, as the saying goes, when in Durham, do as the Durhamites do. And that, my friends, means sipping, savoring, and celebrating the very best that this city has to offer.
