FOOD
k & drin
PERFECT
PATIOS A Room With a View
Downtown’s bar scene now bridges the gap between the laid-back dives and upscale cocktail establishments with the impending arrival of The Velvet Hippo. The latest addition to the city’s skyline is, as of press time, slated to open any day now. Expect a friendly neighborhood bar 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. Taking center stage in the vibrant venue is an indoor/outdoor bar with seating on both sides. Inside, patrons can savor their beverages at central standing tables or cozy banquette nooks nestled around a charming vintage fireplace. Or take your bevvy outside to the two-level deck with covered tables, bar seating and stadium-style stair seats on the lower level, and enjoy panoramic views from couches, tables and banquette seating under café lights and umbrellas on the upper level. The bar derives its name from one of the owners’ dogs (and other endearingly nicknamed pit bull-type dogs), collectively referred to as “Velvet 58
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Sip on The Velvet Escape, Tropic Thunder or the nonalcoholic Peach Blossom at The Velvet Hippo while gazing across the city skyline.
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Delight in drinks and dishes alfresco B Y LEAH B ERRY
PHOTOG RAPHY B Y
J OHN MICHAEL S I M PS O N
Hippos.” Embracing this connection, the establishment hosts “Yappy Hours” on the roof deck every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m. The Velvet Hippo is the brainchild of a partnership among five women: two pairs of sisters – Sarah Matista and Leslie Matista, and Claire Lyons and Amy Lyons Floyd – and a longtime friend who “might as well be a sister,” Alison J. Domnas, all with deep affection for the hospitality industry, the Durham community and their canine companions. They wanted to cultivate an inclusive place where it “feels like you can show up any day after work and hang with your favorite bartender, or get a little dressed up and come on a date,” Sarah says. The face you’ll see behind the bar most often is managing partner Leslie, who has garnered a loyal following of regulars at establishments throughout the Triangle over the years, including The Bar Durham. Her expertise and charisma are sure to contribute to The Velvet Hippo’s appeal. So, prepare yourself and your furry friends, “velvet hippos” or otherwise, for a memorable and lively time at this forthcoming hot spot.