Name: The Velvet Hippo Bar & Lounge
Telephone: (919) 294-4447

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Phone: (919) 294-4447

Directions 4.6

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.

Google Rating

4.6

Theresa Novicky 7 months ago

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.
Barbara Lindner (Travelling Wife) a month ago

We had drinks that were very good and we really enjoyed the roof top bar and a chance to sit and watch the world below go by. The bar welcomes all people and is very LGBQT friendly. We stayed until 9p but saw if we waited until 930p there was a DJ. Extensive bar with many options and cool drinks.
Jake Neurer 4 months ago

I definitely enjoyed my visit to The Velvet Hippo- they had an impressive cocktail program and small/medium sized rooftop patio. Surprisingly the bar and patio weren't too crowded despite being right in Durham's City Center. The inside decor is vibrant: kind of a mix between mid century & industrial modern - props for the decorated tree, which I enjoyed my drink under.

My date & I only order one cocktail each, which I believe were both seasonal selections. 'Wabi Sabi' - local white rum, wasabi-infused coconut cream, lime, pineapple, and mint plume ($15) & a 'Smoke Show' - mezcal, tequila, ancho reyes, ancho-chili cinnamon demerara, pineapple, lime, smoked chili bitters, and a cinnamon sugar smoked chili salt rim ($16).

Adequate pricing for both cocktails which were elevated variations, creative, and well-executed. I always commend a patio that also includes a service counter. I'm looking forward to visiting again and trying a new rotation of seasonal drinks.

Cheers!
Foodie&Funsies1111 2 months ago

Haven't tried the food but the cocktails are on my top 3 in the triangle AND seasonal. A+ for creativity. Atmosphere hits but sometimes the crowd is unpredictable. Lovely decor and roof top!
Kristin 2 months ago

Went here for drinks before a show. This place is a vibe. Inclusive, friendly, & make good drinks where you can sit outside & enjoy the view. Dog friendly & smoker friendly.