COCKTAIL BARS DURHAM

La Mala in Durham is a contemporary Mexican cocktail bar celebrating authentic hospitality and cultural richness. The venue specializes in made-to-order cocktails crafted with freshly squeezed fruits and a curated collection of high-quality tequilas, complemented by authentic street food prepared fresh daily. The modern, welcoming atmosphere emphasizes sharing food, culture, and drinks in a space designed for connection and community. With extended weekend hours and accessible pricing, La Mala offers an engaging environment where patrons can experience expertly prepared Mexican-inspired cocktails alongside traditional street food fare.

Kingfisher is a craft cocktail bar in downtown Durham, North Carolina, founded by husband-and-wife team Sean Umstead and Michelle Vanderwalker who celebrate the state's culinary heritage through ground-to-glass cocktails and seasonal local ingredients. The basement speakeasy features a hand-tiled bar, cozy lounge seating, exposed brick, and ceramic dishes crafted by Vanderwalker, creating an inviting speak-easy atmosphere. Signature drinks like the Muscadine Mai Tai showcase North Carolina's distinct flavors, while the Nashville Hot Chicken Sandwich is a crowd favorite. A 2023 James Beard Awards semifinalist for Outstanding Bar, Kingfisher showcases locally-sourced dedication in an artfully designed space.

Corpse Reviver Bar & Lounge, now operating as Conniption Bar & Lounge, anchors Durham Distillery's modern cocktail program at 715 Washington Street in downtown Durham with an Art Deco-inspired interior and covered patio designed after London's luxury gin bars. Named for both the classic gin cocktail and its setting in a former coffin shop, the venue proudly features the complete range of Durham Distillery spirits including Conniption gins, Cold Distilled vodka, and Damn Fine liqueurs, alongside a curated selection of bourbons, local beers, wine, and rotating small bites. The sleek design and inventive cocktails create an atmosphere centered on unhurried conversation and memorable moments.