The New York Times, Nov 2023: Key Stops:…The Velvet Hippo is a lively new bar serving fruity slushies and creative cocktails on a rooftop downtown.
At the end of 2022, the city designated most of downtown a social district called the Bullpen…So if the bar is packed at the Velvet Hippo, a lively rooftop lounge that opened in August serving fruity slushies and creative cocktails, you can take that frozen Hawaiian Rum Punch ($13) to go…more
Durham Magazine, Aug 2023: Downtown’s bar scene now bridges the gap between the laid-back dives and upscale cocktail establishments with the arrival of The Velvet Hippo. Expect a friendly neighborhood bar from this latest addition to the city’s skyline, one that aims to offer an engaging experience with its imaginative cocktails and mocktails, locally brewed beers, wine selection, refreshing slushes and delectable light bites prepared by chef Regina Jones…more
Axios, Jul 2023: The Velvet Hippo — located on the third floor of 119 Orange St. — is having a soft opening today and a grand opening party on Aug. 5. We snuck into a recent friends-and-family preview and can vouch for bartenders' caipirinhas and homemade concoctions like the "Garter Belt" (a refreshing mixture of gin, elderflower and muddled cucumber) and the "Ursula, Queen of Atlantica" (a slightly tart drink featuring purple gin).…more
Raleigh Magazine, Feb 2024: Here’s what’s hip and happening in the Bull City. Created by five women and named for their love of pit bulls (oft referred to as velvet hippos), this new Durham-based rooftop bar and lounge was born of years of planning, drinking and dreaming with the aim of creating “a space that feels like a vacation just around the corner for our guests.”…more
The News & Observer, Aug 2023: At Durham’s newest rooftop bar there’s whimsy and glitter and a name inspired by the soft, wiggly fur of a pit bull. The Velvet Hippo opened this month at 119 Orange St. in downtown Durham, adding a dual level rooftop deck and a vibrant indoor space to the city’s buzzy cocktail scene. The bar is owned by Leslie and Sarah Matista, Claire Lyons, Amy Lyons Floyd and Alison Domnas — two pairs of sisters and a friend…more
NC Triangle Dining, July 2023: Over in Durham, the new restaurant and bar activity has picked up of late! Welcome to the Velvet Hippo, the newest bar in the Bull City and it’s a fun and interesting option. Part cocktail bar, lounge, and rooftop patio, I managed to drop in on their soft opening on July 29th and was pretty impressed. Here’s why you need to visit and hang out at the Velvet Hippo! more
The News & Observer, Jan 2024: The Triangle’s newest rooftop bar is also the biggest beverage opening of 2023. Owned by five women, the Velvet Hippo specializes in cocktails and offers views of downtown Durham. If you’re looking for a space to grab a drink with your pup, the Velvet Hippo offers a “Yappy Hour” where dogs are welcome…more
Best of The Bull, Aug 2023: Velvet Hippo: Get ready to experience the incredible new rooftop bar in Durham, the Velvet Hippo! This place is bursting with tropical vibes, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a paradise. Split into two awesome sections, the first part is an indoor lounge that’s full of lively decorations and has a gorgeous long bar as the focal point. You’ll find cozy corners to chill and enjoy your time. The other half is a fantastic two-tiered rooftop patio, giving you an amazing view of Parrish Street and Durham City Hall…more
Best of The Bull, Jul 2023: The city’s latest gem and a haven of tropical bliss. Step into the Velvet Hippo, and you’ll be greeted by a captivating indoor lounge adorned with lively and colorful decorations. At the heart of the space lies a long and inviting bar, where imaginative and refreshing cocktails are whipped up that perfectly complement the warm atmosphere. The lounge is also designed with cozy nooks, providing the perfect setting to unwind and relax with friends…more
