On weekends, you don’t have to leave Fido behind when visiting this new neighborhood bar downtown. The Velvet Hippo, an homage to the owner’s love of dogs, offers a breezy rooftop oasis with a view, glistening signature cocktails, boozy slushes, draft IPAs, small bites and fun events like karaoke. “Yappy Hours” are Saturday and Sunday, 12-6 p.m. Since dogs are not permitted indoors, they get their very own VIP staircase. Star treatment for all! For humans, there are also popular dance parties that go late into the evening and regular events like drag bingo with Durham's beloved House of Coxx drag family. Food, drinks and mocktails are available -- typically with seasonal flair and clever menu titles.
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Hours:
Monday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
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!
Thomas Watson
Nov 30, 2025
5
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).
James Murray
Nov 12, 2025
5
I recently had the pleasure of using the Velvet Hippo's outdoor patio area for a corporate event. All of us at the event were so impressed with the venue, the food, the drinks, and (most of all) the incredible staff that managed to make this a perfect evening.
Special shout out to Jules, who effortlessly managed to juggle orders from waves of guests, mixing some of the best and most innovative cocktails we've ever had, and being warm and welcoming in a way that made everyone feel at home.
This really seems like a venue that both cares deeply about the experience offered, but also (and equally importantly) has the skill and creativity to pull off their vision.
We will be back, and highly recommend to all!
Steve B
Nov 9, 2025
5
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!
ALLISON DRAPALA
Jul 27, 2025
5
The Velvet Hippo is exactly the kind of place that makes you feel like you accidentally stumbled into your new favorite hangout. We dropped in on a Sunday because (a) they’re proudly LGBTQ+ inclusive, and (b) they allow dogs—which, let’s be real, is a massive win for any spot in Florida heat.
First impression?
Packed. But in a good way. The energy was high, the patio was buzzing, and every table felt like the cool kids' table. It was one of those effortlessly fun environments where you can’t help but vibe along.
Food-wise:
I went with the tostadas, which were absolutely brimming with flavor—crispy, fresh, and loaded with toppings that weren’t just filler. My husband ordered the Cuban sliders, and full disclosure: I immediately regretted not doing the same. They were juicy, savory, and had us doing the polite “just one more bite?” dance until the plate was clean.
Drinks:
His old fashioned? A+—perfectly balanced and smooth. This isn’t one of those bars that half-asses the cocktail game. They know what they’re doing.
Would we go back?
Without hesitation. Great food, great drinks, a fun and inclusive crowd, and our dog was treated like royalty. If you’re in St. Pete and want something casual but full of personality, The Velvet Hippo is the move.
Pro tips:
* Get there early on Sundays—it gets crowded fast.
* Order the Cuban sliders. Trust me.
* Patio is dog-friendly, so bring your pup for bonus smiles.
Kay
Jun 27, 2025
5
Great bar with a nice rooftop. The drinks and the staff were awesome.
Update: I have now been numerous more tiemd and each time has been fantastic. Such good vibes with chill people and great drinks. This has become a go to spot!
Dani Black
Jun 10, 2025
5
Perfect place for a celebration, catchup date, or simply a random party with the community. It's the perfect blend of intimate and urban, rooftop and cozy, stylish and warm and welcoming to all.
Food just keeps getting better, cheese board is especially nice: pretty, fresh and tasty.
If cocktails are your thing, I think this is the funnest place in Durham.
James Roach
Mar 19, 2025
5
EDIT 3/19/25
It's been some time since my first visit to the Velvet Hippo and I feel as though I should give an updated review. This place is now one of my go-to spots. I've had the pleasure to get to know a few of the staff there, and the drinks are ALWAYS on point. The events make it an awesome place to hangout, and the times where there's nothing going on allows it to be a chill spot to relax. Special shout-out to Jules, Annie, Rae-ann (please forgive me if I spelled your name wrong, I've never seen it written before), and Becky for making the nights there truly amazing, although the rest of the staff there always make me feel welcomed too (I'm sorry I only know so many names). Unless something changes I'll always hang out at the Velvet Hippo!
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Bar staff is super friendly and the drinks here are crafted wonderfully! Beautiful space and the outside seating is plentiful. Awesome spot to check out!
Morgan Manion
Mar 1, 2025
5
Went last weekend and can’t wait to go back when the weather is warmer. The rooftop is really nice and the environment is a great vibe all around, the bartenders were really friendly and personable. I got the special of the day which was a blackberry margarita. My fiancé had a few different cocktails that were great.
Matea L.
Dec 29, 2024
5
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.
