Whether it's wine, whisky or beer you prefer, there is something for everyone on our list of best bars in Durham for 2016:
117B E Main St
(919) 339-1432
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 21 reviews
Lusconi's bartenders are connoisseurs, so just tell them what kind of drinks you like, and they'll find a wine to please your tastes. You can try an assortment of imported bottles that you won't find in the grocery store.
4810 Hope Valley Rd, Suite 110
(919) 973-2755
Yelp: 4.5 star, 27 reviews
This unassuming establishment keeps over 40 beers on tap. Don't hesitate to ask for samples. If you find one you like, sit down for a pint or buy a 64 oz growler to take the party home.
905 W Main St
(919) 683-3853
Yelp: 3 stars, 74 reviews
Dozens of large, HD television screens adorn the walls and broadcast major sporting events from all around the world. Satisfaction has a full service restaurant that specializes in good old greasy bar food.
321 W Geer St
(919) 282-3748
Yelp: 3.5 stars, 286 reviews
The Pit is best know for its BBQ, but their bourbon list is nothing to be balked at. With over 30 whiskey options to choose from, you could try a new drink every day of of the week!
703 Rigsbee Ave
(919) 294-9661
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 49 reviews
If you're looking for somewhere low-key to play darts or pool at the end of a long day, Surf Club is the perfect place. Food trucks are often parked in front of their outside seating area.
117 W Main St
(919) 667-1100
Yelp: 4 stars, 44 reviews
Pinhook is a cozy bar with great drinks, gender neutral bathrooms and a large performance stage. They often host bands and community events including a vegan cooking club that meets once a month.
320 E Chapel Hill St
(919) 213-1267
Yelp: 4 stars, 89 reviews
With a selection of liquors from all over the world, the bartenders can mix almost anything your heart desires. They also have their own signature cocktails like the Quilted Hot Toddy made with scotch, drambuie, moscovado syrup, oranges, lemons and cinnamon.
723 Rigsbee Ave
(919) 901-0875
Yelp: 4 stars, 79 reviews
Motorco is a full service restaurant and bar that hosts live music and comedy performances almost every night of the week. Keep your eye on their calendar for up-and-coming acts in the NC music scene.
219 Hood St
(978) 482-7701
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 25 reviews
Two levels of outdoor seating make Ponysaurus particularly popular when the weather is conducive to sipping beer under the stars. Dogs are welcome onto the rooftop patio, so bring your canine companion along for a night on the town.
315 E Chapel Hill St
(919) 768-8830
Yelp: 3.5 stars, 28 reviews
You don't have to be a resident of the Durham Hotel to visit their rooftop bar and lounge. Their key selling point is an awesome panoramic view of the city. Splurge on their signature cocktail, the Durham, which is a mix of cognac, rum, tawny port, benedictine and angostura bitters.
726 Rigsbee Ave
(919) 682-2337
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 329 reviews
Get your favorite NC beers straight from the source at Fullsteam. Their unique selection includes a sweet potato lager, an iced coffee porter and dozens of other beers you won't find elsewhere. They also have dozens of board games and a ping pong table.
754 9th St
(919) 416-8800
Yelp: 4 stars, 159 reviews
Feel free to bring your laptop to Dain's and enjoy the free wifi while you sip on one of their 80 American beer choices. If you get hungry, try one of their custom burgers with a side of 'tater tots.
324 Blackwell St
(919) 433-0345
Yelp: 3.5 stars, 276 reviews
If you're on the way to a movie or a show at the DPAC, Tyler's Taproom is a good place to start the evening. It's nothing fancy, but they have huge food and beer menus with something for everyone, making it an ideal location to get to know someone.
5311 S Miami Blvd, Suite F
(919) 474-2233
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 20 reviews
The Island Green smoothie made with spinach, kale, pineapples, mangoes and bananas is the perfect cure for a Sunday morning hangover. The Tropical Smoothie Cafe also carries sandwiches, tacos and other light bites, which makes it a popular brunch option on weekends.
711 Rigsbee Ave
(919) 956-2929
Yelp: 3 stars, 13 reviews
The Bar has weekly dance parties and regularly hosts professional and amateur drag performances. If it's nice outside, stick around for a game of cornhole on the back patio.
331 W. Main Street, Suite 002
(919) 973-1675
Yelp: 4.5 stars, 4 reviews
Arcana is a small bar with big personality. Their comfortable couches and homey decor attracts people of all types. If you need some spiritual advice, there's a good chance the bartender may offer you a tarot card reading with your drink.
