As a North Carolina native, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the vibrant and ever-evolving food and drink scene that my home state has to offer. From the mountains to the sea, there’s a unique blend of tradition and innovation that captivates the senses and leaves you craving for more. And when it comes to the thriving city of Durham, the culinary and cocktail landscape is truly something to behold.
Embracing the Unexpected
Let’s start our journey at The Velvet Hippo, a hip new addition to Durham’s downtown bar scene. This place is the brainchild of five women – two sets of sisters and a long-time friend – who have a deep affection for the hospitality industry and their canine companions. The name itself is a nod to one of the owner’s dogs, and the establishment embraces an endearing connection to “velvet hippo” pit bull-type pups.
As I step through the doors, I’m immediately struck by the inviting indoor-outdoor vibe. The central bar, with its imaginative cocktails and locally brewed beers, serves as the heart of the space. But the real showstopper is the two-level outdoor deck, complete with cozy couches, café lights, and a panoramic view of the city skyline. It’s the perfect spot to sip on a refreshing slushie or a craft cocktail while taking in the sights and sounds of downtown Durham.
What I love most about The Velvet Hippo is its inclusivity. As one of the owners, Sarah, puts it, “We wanted to cultivate an inclusive place where it feels like you can show up any day after work and hang with your favorite bartender or get a little dressed up and come on a date.” And that’s exactly the vibe I feel as I settle into a cozy nook, with my four-legged companion by my side, ready to embark on a journey of seasonal cocktail pairings.
Crafting Unique Libations
Just a few blocks away, Weldon Mills Distillery offers a delightful contrast to the lively atmosphere of The Velvet Hippo. Here, I step into a dimly lit craft cocktail lounge, where the focus is on the art of mixology and the distillery’s own unique spirits.
As I peruse the menu, I’m intrigued by the use of locally sourced and foraged ingredients. The bartender, Dezarae, enthusiastically explains the process behind their sweet potato whiskey and bourbon barrel-aged gin, each with its own distinct personality. I decide to go for the latter, paired with a “Jala Board” – jalapeños covered in a cheddar cheese blend and a zesty harissa aioli.
The interplay of the botanical gin, the creamy cheese, and the vibrant heat of the jalapeños is simply sublime. I can’t help but wonder how the flavors would evolve if I were to sip on this cocktail out on the distillery’s charming new patio, with the majestic view of the nearby First Presbyterian Church as a backdrop.
Embracing the Tropics
As the sun starts to set, I make my way to Alley Twenty Six, where the limited-time “Islands in the Alley” pop-up has transformed the cozy alleyway space into a tropical oasis. The vibrant décor, complete with string lights and brick archways, immediately transports me to a faraway island getaway.
I settle into a table and can’t resist the allure of the “Big Kahuna Burger,” a juicy patty topped with pineapple, teriyaki glaze, and crispy onions. To complement this flavor explosion, I opt for the “Livin’ La Vida Cocoa” cocktail, a blend of rum, coconut, and dark chocolate that perfectly captures the essence of the tropics.
As I savor each bite and sip, I can’t help but feel a sense of childlike wonder. The playful menu, the festive atmosphere, and the carefully crafted cocktails all come together to create a truly immersive experience. It’s a testament to the creativity and attention to detail that the team at Alley Twenty Six brings to the table.
Dining with a View
Eager to explore more of Durham’s culinary gems, I head to the rooftop oasis of The Roof at The Durham. This mid-century modern lounge offers stunning skyline views and a menu that celebrates seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
I order a round of North Carolina oysters, paired with the “For the Skipper” cocktail – a refreshing blend of gin, Dolin Blanc, Old Bay-spiced vinegar, and pickled onion. The briny, slightly spicy flavors of the oysters are the perfect foil to the herbaceous, slightly bittersweet notes of the cocktail.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the atmosphere takes on an entirely new dimension. Twinkling lights and vintage-inspired furnishings create a sense of timeless elegance, while the inflatable pool floats add a playful touch that reflects the establishment’s commitment to providing a truly memorable experience.
Discovering Hidden Gems
My culinary journey through Durham takes an unexpected turn as I venture outside the city limits to Boxyard RTP, a vibrant hub of cargotecture that showcases the region’s diverse food and beverage scene.
I start my morning with a bold, frothy cappuccino from Beyu Caffé and a breakfast burrito that hits the spot. As I stroll through the repurposed shipping containers, I’m captivated by the array of options, from the craft beer at Fullsteam to the Korean fusion cuisine at Bulkogi.
But the true standout for me is Leroys Taco Shop, where I indulge in their signature smoked brisket birria and sliced carne asada. The depth of flavor in these dishes is simply astounding, and I can’t resist pairing them with a refreshing michelada from the nearby Lagoon Bar.
As I linger and soak in the lively atmosphere, complete with live music and a diverse array of events, I’m struck by the sense of community and collaboration that permeates Boxyard RTP. It’s a true celebration of local culture, and I can’t help but feel grateful to have stumbled upon this hidden gem.
Elevating the Dining Experience
No culinary journey through Durham would be complete without a visit to the Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond restaurant, Herons, located within the stunning Umstead Hotel and Spa.
As I step into the elegant dining room, with its full-view kitchen and meticulously curated art collection, I know I’m in for a truly extraordinary experience. The menu, crafted by Executive Chef Steven Devereaux Greene, is a masterful reinterpretation of American classics, showcasing the best of local, seasonal ingredients.
I select the four-course prix fixe menu, eager to embark on a culinary journey that promises to delight my senses. Each dish is a masterpiece, from the delicate burrata with tomato carpaccio, balsamic pearls, and chili oil to the decadent Cuban sandwich with smoked ham, slow-roasted pork shoulder, and gruyère.
But the real magic happens when I pair these dishes with the expertly curated wine selections. The Doble O Nada cocktail, with its jalapeño-infused tequila and pickled onion, provides a delightful contrast to the briny, mineral-driven North Carolina oysters. And the For the Skipper, with its gin, Dolin Blanc, and Old Bay-spiced vinegar, is the perfect companion to the rich, smoky flavors of the brisket birria.
As I savor each bite and sip, I’m struck by the level of attention to detail and the seamless harmony of flavors. It’s a dining experience that truly elevates the senses and leaves me with a deep appreciation for the culinary artistry that Durham has to offer.
Toasting to Durham’s Gems
As I reflect on my journey through Durham’s vibrant food and drink scene, I’m left with a sense of awe and wonder. From the inclusive energy of The Velvet Hippo to the craft cocktail expertise of Weldon Mills Distillery, from the tropical escapism of Alley Twenty Six to the elevated dining experience at Herons, this city has proven itself to be a true culinary and cocktail destination.
And the best part? I know there are countless more hidden gems waiting to be discovered, each offering its own unique take on the art of mixing, shaking, and savoring. So, I’ll raise my glass to Durham, a city that continues to surprise and delight with its unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and a touch of whimsy.
Here’s to sipping and savoring our way through the seasons, one delectable cocktail and mouthwatering dish at a time. Cheers, Durham!
