If you’ve strolled through Durham lately, you’ve likely noticed that folks here really love their wine bars – and they won’t let anything keep them from that perfect glass. If you’re looking to join them, we’ve selected our favorite Durham spots where you can savor bold reds, discover local vintages, and definitely enjoy some Southern hospitality.
ZincHouse Winery & Brewery
$$ | (833) 494-9463 | WEBSITE
Even though we suspect no one is going to be playing bocci ball anytime soon, you can still go to ZincHouse Winery & Brewery, the massive winery/brewery in Durham. They’ve got three separate levels and numerous bars on their grounds, where they serve wines, bourbons, and brews. Reservations on their website.
Nanas
$$$ | (919) 251-8213 | WEBSITE
Italian-inspired spot Nanas is in the heart of Durham, and has a warm supper club vibe with a modern twist. They’ve got outstanding Piedmont wines, specialty cocktails, and lots of things involving house-made rolls. The scallops, grits soufflé, and chicken liver mousse are impressive, while second courses like ravioli, gnocchi, and squid ink pasta are fantastic. The duck with rhubarb presentation remains gorgeous, and the trout special of the day is noted as fantastic.
Desserts like chocolate mousse, hazelnut tiramisu, and chocolate soufflé are a must-try. While the food is excellent, some guests have mentioned feeling rushed within the two-hour dining limit. Despite the cold temperature inside, Nanas provides an incredible dining experience with amazing food, attentive personal service, and a lively atmosphere. Reservations recommended.
The Glass Jug Beer Lab – Downtown Durham
$$ | (919) 381-5797 | WEBSITE
The Glass Jug Beer Lab has settled into its downtown Durham location. The beer selection is solid, but what you’re really there for are some incredible views of Central Park from the brewery windows. Call ahead for parking tips – (919) 908-2337.
Killer Queen
$$ | (919) 381-5083 | WEBSITE
Killer Queen is a wine bar open for sipping on their lovely patio in Durham, with natural wines and amazing food. They’ve got drinks every night, plus a cozy indoor space, and a small but mighty menu that involves excellent charcuterie boards and warm chocolate chip cookies. Reserve on their website.
Vin Rouge
$$$ | (919) 416-0466 | WEBSITE
After nearly two decades, this classic French restaurant in Durham remains a steadfast favorite. And the best part? They’ve maintained their exceptional quality and service throughout all these years. Which means you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to experience refined French cuisine, expertly prepared dishes, and an impressive wine selection. Or to feel transported to a charming Parisian bistro, for that matter.
Convivio Restaurant
$$$ | (984) 219-1961 | WEBSITE
Convivio Restaurant is an Italian gem in Durham with excellent food, outstanding service, and a warm, familial atmosphere. All of this will be of particular interest to you now that authentic Italian dining is actually happening. The menu features delicious dishes like grilled lamb with truffles and Ravioli, as well as great pizza, with entrees priced around $28-$32 and desserts at $12.
Guests have praised the food as authentic and delicious, highlighting the two entrees, side dishes, and dessert as excellent. The restaurant has a cozy, rustic-chic setting with warm lighting and wooden accents, where the owner and staff provide a very welcoming experience. The wait staff, including the professional and friendly Rafael, is noted for being super attentive and knowledgeable about the dishes.
Convivio is highly regarded for its flavorful food, fantastic service, and impressive wine selection, making it a must-visit for Italian food lovers in the Durham area.
Plum Southern Kitchen & Bar
$$ | (919) 351-6446 | WEBSITE
Southern gem Plum Southern Kitchen & Bar is holding strong in Durham, with a cozy yet elegant dining room where they’re serving all kinds of comforting classics like shrimp and grits, flat iron steak, and a selection of biscuits. The banana pudding is a must-try dessert, and they’ve got a nice draft beer selection to wash it all down. Parking can be a bit tricky, but there’s a lot across the street available after hours.
It’s the kind of place that works for a special occasion or just a really good meal.
Pour Taproom
$ | (919) 251-8985 | WEBSITE
Ask any ten locals in Durham where to grab a drink, and you’ll probably hear Pour Taproom mentioned more than once. This downtown spot has a self-pour system we’re very into, some of our favorite kombucha options around, and plenty of casual space with a friendly, social atmosphere. Call (919) 555-0123 for more info.
Juan tacos
$ | (919) 237-1175 | WEBSITE
Juan Tacos in Durham is a popular Mexican spot known for its vibrant atmosphere and amazing drinks. This swanky restaurant has a beautiful setup with an uplifting environment. The menu offers Mexican favorites like the best queso, steak torta, chicken quesadilla, and one of the area’s best quesabirria. Their well-made salsa is perfectly spiced, and the strong margaritas aren’t too sweet. Overall, it’s a must-visit for delicious cuisine and great vibes.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
$$ | (919) 544-6332 | WEBSITE
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill offers a mixed experience for diners, with reservations honored promptly but service that can be slow with lengthy waits for drinks and orders. They’ve got specials like the Veteran’s offer that add value, and the ribeye was described as perfect, although some diners reported it being served raw in parts. The standout of the meal was the outstanding server, who is friendly and prompt, enhancing the overall dining experience.
The restaurant is recognized as a nice place to celebrate special occasions, though it is a bit expensive for casual dining – expect to pay around $35-45 for entrees like the filet mignon or salmon, with the lemon cake dessert at $12. The staff is attentive and accommodating, even handling food allergies with care. Reservations recommended, especially since parking might be a challenge on busy nights.
Ramblers Beer & Wine
$ | (919) 251-9385 | WEBSITE
Before the pandemic, Ramblers was our go-to spot for one too many craft beers on a Friday evening. But they’ve maintained their welcoming neighborhood vibe while expanding their offerings, with a carefully curated selection of wines, seltzers, and the best tap list in the Triangle. The friendly staff and pet-friendly atmosphere make it perfect for relaxed conversation over good drinks. Reservations aren’t needed at this hyper-local bar with complimentary parking.
Brunello Wine Bar
$$$$ | (919) 294-4825 | WEBSITE
We just visited Brunello Wine Bar’s new location – check out our first impression of their updated space. With its clean lines, modern lighting, and minimalist decor, it’s certainly a different atmosphere than the original’s funky vibe, but as far as being a welcoming wine destination is concerned, it’s an excellent choice. Besides, after a few glasses of orange wine and Esteban’s expert guidance, we couldn’t tell the difference anyway.
Dram and Draught
$ | (919) 607-8501 | WEBSITE
Dram and Draught, the beloved neighborhood bar in Durham, has remained a favorite for its beautiful interior and welcoming atmosphere. Grab an Old Fashioned or a negroni to go with whatever wine or draft selection you’re enjoying. Their community-oriented vibe is strong, so we highly recommend stopping by with friends, family, or colleagues.
The Oak House Durham
$ | (919) 339-1383 | WEBSITE
The Oak House Durham has a few spots around town, but the one downtown stands out for two reasons: They’ve got an extensive workspace, and, more importantly, they’ve got a well-curated selection of wine and liquor. That means you can sip on a glass of red while you enjoy a perfectly balanced Cappuccino.
West End Wine Bar of Durham
$ | (919) 381-4228 | WEBSITE
West End Wine Bar has its spot in Durham and it’s welcoming. That means the evenings of sipping too much white negroni in their spacious setting, nibbling on dark chocolate covered almonds and their substantial hummus flatbread, and lingering late on a Friday night have returned. Cheers.
LouElla Wine, Beer & Beverage
$$ | (919) 973-2001 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking to unwind with a fantastic bottle of wine in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, LouElla Wine, Beer & Beverage is the spot for you. They’ve got everything from fun Saturday tastings to a great selection of wines, along with their tinned seafood selection. Reservations available on their website.
Gocciolina
$$ | (919) 973-4089 | WEBSITE
Gocciolina is a charming Italian spot in Durham, and their cozy dining room is a perfect place to eat all the pasta you couldn’t figure out how to make at home. The food is fresh and delicious, so just trust your instincts here – especially if your instincts are telling you to get the mushroom ravioli, with its delicate pasta and rich filling that melts in your mouth.
The Wine Feed
$$ | (919) 748-4115 | WEBSITE
The intimate wine bar in Durham has recently enhanced their welcoming atmosphere with live music adding to the experience. And if some of the best-selected wine pairings in the area aren’t enough to draw you in, they’re also offering personalized service for selecting wines every visit, and fantastic Wagyu beef sliders on the menu. The chef, known for being kind and helpful, often discusses meal substitutions to accommodate dietary restrictions, making the overall experience outstanding.
