The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge

I’ve been coming to The Velvet Hippo for about a year now, and it consistently impresses me with both its food and drink offerings. The menu features creative cocktails, local beers, and tasty bar bites that never disappoint! Walker is always quick with a smile and great recommendations, making every visit enjoyable, and Jules is a joy to talk to behind the bar — friendly, fun, and always adding to the upbeat vibe. The whole team brings energy and enthusiasm that makes the Hippo a great neighborhood spot in downtown Durham. The space itself is always decorated seasonally and has indoor, outdoor, and rooftop areas. I love that it feels inclusive and welcoming, with something for everyone. Overall, it’s become one of my go-to spots in Durham for fun drinks, good food, and great vibes. Highly recommended if you’re looking for a neighborhood bar with personality and consistently excellent service.

The holiday decorations here are alone worth the visit. The drinks are fun and the staff is welcoming. It was chilly outside, but we braved it for the pretty views. I would definitely return during the holiday season (and later when it's warmer).

Great bar with a nice rooftop. The drinks and the staff were awesome. Update: I have now been numerous more times and each time has been fantastic. Such good vibes with chill people and great drinks. This has become a go to spot!

Best rooftop bar in Durham - Velvet opened since I’ve been living here & has been my favorite outdoor rooftop & bar in town. Super friendly & fun bar staff - especially Carissa! Since coming here, Carissa always knows how’s to get the party started with Jello-o shots & whichever shooter they have on the menu that week. Love coming here any day of the week to enjoy sunset. They have great drink deals everyday of the week & fun events (drag bingo, DJ events, even bringing puppies from the local shelter available for adoption). Couldn’t recommend this place more to anyone looking for a fun afternoon or evening in Durham.

Far and away one of my favorite places to take people in Durham when they visit us. Everyone who works there is so friendly. Their inside is cozy and decorated festive depending on season. Their rooftop is great and as a bonus, they offer blankets for when it gets cold. Limited food menu but what I've eaten has been good (I'm not personally going here to eat though) I'm going for their fun drinks, both cocktails and mocktails, and the view. I do see people coming for the first time sometimes get discombobulated as to where to find it. Go in the building and take elevator and you'll see an open peachy pink door that leads to their bar.

I just moved here and was told that it’s pretty much the closest you’re going to get to a gay bar in Durham. It was all straight when I visited, but the place has an excellent atmosphere, great cocktails, and great service. The rooftop bar is fabulous. Did some walking around downtown. When I moved here, so many people busted on it is being unsafe, but I found it anything but. Downtown Durham has a lot to offer, this place included. Thumbs up! UPDATE: Changed from a 5 to a 3. Be mindful of some of the obnoxious patrons that come here since this is the "it" bar. Namely, on my second visit I had to deal with a group of businessmen that were crowding around the patio doorway and would not move to let people get through. I sent an email to the bar management, who responded positively. Still though, some of the patrons here are arrogantly disrespectful.

12/7/24 - I loved the decor here! The roof view is beautiful. Bartenders were super great and kind. The drinks were also great. Definitely a spot to hang out, drink, and enjoy the view.