Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Brunello Wine bar

    4.8 (49 reviews)
    ModerateWine Bars

    Brunello Wine bar Photos

    BRUNELLO WINE BAR ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Trendy
    Intimate
    Romantic
    Outdoor seating

    You might also consider

    More like Brunello Wine bar

    Recommended Reviews - Brunello Wine bar

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Flight of orange wines
    Lauren M.

    I've walked by this spot a handful of times, and never even realized it was a wine bar or somewhere I should explore! My friend and I wanted to try out a new (to us) spot before a DPAC show and Bar Brunello popped up during our searching! It's small but cozy inside. We sat at the bar (there also a few small tables). While we like wine, we aren't fancy wine drinkers so didn't quite know what to expect or order. My friend asked for recommendations based on the types of wine she usually likes, and I was interested in the Flight of Orange Wines. They described orange wines as having a red wine finish but also related them to saison and sour beers. I'm a fan of those types of beers, so I tried it out. All 3 were good, but the KRS Orange Zilavka (middle wine in my photo) was my favorite. It definitely reminded me of a sour beer, but lighter and smoother. I definitely recommend this spot to anyone looking for a unique place to have a drink in Durham!

    Orange Wine Flight!
    Gloria L.

    I went to Bar Brunello for the first time for my Birthday. I had invited a pretty large group of people (around 15-20) and it was a bit of a smaller, more intimate place to go than a place for very large groups. But that being said the bartender was still really nice about accommodating us! We all got drinks and we got to move tables around to sit together. The bartender even set up the space outside, which was the nicest outdoor space I've seen a bar in Durham have! Besides the rooftop, this outdoor space is pretty large and really really nice/pretty! I'll definitely be back to use the outdoor space! I would recommend going here with a few friends or on a date. It'd be a really nice low-key night spot. The wine was good and so were the flights. They're known for their orange wine, so I ordered the orange wine flight. It tasted ok, very different, but I liked just getting the experience to try orange wine! They also had a really good rose flight! I'd definitely recommend it again!

    Flight of orange wines.  So delicious
    Micaela K.

    My husband and I sat at the bar and had a lovely time sipping wines. It was a very quiet night, so our bartender was more than happy to spend time telling us all about what were were drinking. I tried a flight of orange wines, while my husband stuck to the reds he loves. When we go back, we're looking forward to checking out the patio and getting some of the tappas as well!

    Bar Brunello menu
    Gemma S.

    This was a great wine bar! It's very small, and is very sparsely decorated, but still has a cozy atmosphere. They have a great selection of wines, and the person who helped us was very knowledgeable. We went as part of a group for a birthday celebration, and were able to fit inside with no issues. That being said, if there was another large group we definitely would not have fit inside (there is also an outdoor seating area)

    Kaitlyn A.

    A friend and I stopped in here to have some wine, and let me tell you this place does not disappoint! I had a flight of rose, delicious. My friend had a glass of Pinot. Esteban took care of us. He is very knowledgeable and is so passionate about wine. His passion shows and really makes you appreciate how hard it is to really know your wines! Esteban made us feel like queens. We will definitely be back, hopefully next time for date night . Thank you again!

    Tayah B.

    Come for a journey AND wines from all over the world! Esteban is exceptionally knowledgeable but mostly cares about the guest experience. Come enjoy the ride !

    Orange wine flight. Delicious!!
    Jo-Zahn B.

    You will not find this quality of wine at a better price. I have never ordered from the menu; I usually just let Esteban know what mood I'm in. He has more than 20 years of experience and it shows. He always finds something amazing that is exactly right for the occasion. His passion is infectious as he takes you around the regions of the world to explore and expand your wine palate.

    Sarah M.

    I had a really enjoyable first experience here. It seemed like a slower night butter there was so much energy and passion that seemed to enhance every Wine glass I had.the owner knows his stuff and is so incredibly welcoming that it is hard not ask for another glass. I am more of a beer drinker but like the occasional wine. Wine tends to overwhelm me and make me feel inferior due to my lack of knowledge. This place is great at appealing to the wine beginners as well as the wine experts. I love how accommodating and low key this place felt. Durham is in need of a go-to wine bar and this is it by a landslide. I hope Bar Brunello plans to stick around!

    Orange wine flight!

    See all

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Gemma S.
    505
    51
    28

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Tayah B.
    14
    26
    32

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Haley P.
    180
    30
    9

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    cozy spot with a great calendar of wine tasting classes. delicious and unique flavors with great ambiance.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joy B.
    128
    10
    0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Justin S.
    39
    61
    45

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lupo A.
    0
    76
    13

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Sue P.
    34
    32
    20

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of J P.
    0
    2
    0

    8 years ago

    The best - wine selection is broad, great, and service is as good as it gets. What more can you ask for; seriously.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Brunello Wine bar

    You might also consider

    Killer Queen - Interior

    Killer Queen

    4.9(33 reviews)
    0.2 mi

    I was excited to try Killer Queen for a downtown girls' night. We don't make it downtown very…read moreoften, so I've been enjoying exploring some of Durham's newer spots -- and this one was absolutely worth the visit. The wine list is broad and thoughtfully curated, with options that feel approachable whether you're a casual wine drinker or someone looking to try something new. The sommeliers were welcoming, knowledgeable, and genuinely enthusiastic about helping us find something we loved. The space itself is adorable, with eclectic décor and cozy lighting that makes it easy to settle in and stay awhile. It's a great spot for conversation and a relaxed evening with friends. The only downside is that the space is fairly small, and I would have loved to see one or two more lower seating options for small groups rather than mostly high tops. That said, I could absolutely see us coming back for a pre- or post-theater glass of wine or an easy catch-up night.

    Love this place! It's definitely a bit on the pricey side when it comes to the wine, but the…read moreoverall experience makes up for it. The service is awesome--our server was super friendly and gave me a great drink recommendation when I wasn't sure what I wanted. It ended up being perfect. My friend and I shared a glass of the 2023 Cederberg Bukettraube (sweet white wine) and got the charcuterie board for one with the truffle salami. That board was so good--I can't stop thinking about it. The toasted baguette slices with truffle salami and mustard? Unreal. It was the perfect little snack to share. We also had the citrus lavender crème brûlée, which was surprisingly delicious. I don't usually go for crème brûlée, but this one was light, not overly sweet, and just had a really nice flavor. I've also tried their shepherd's pie before and loved it--wish it was still on the menu! The vibe inside is moody and cozy, and they've got a cute outdoor patio too. Overall, such a great spot. A little pricey, but I'll definitely be coming back. Highly recommend checking out Killer Queen.

    Photos
    Killer Queen
    Killer Queen
    Killer Queen

    See all

    The Wine Feed - Brussels sprouts

    The Wine Feed

    4.6(56 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    Great decor - large, open space, with very light furniture. There are quite a few places to sit…read moreoutside, if you want to ask the host(ess) for a place out there. There's an S-shaped bar along the right side as you walk in with a few smaller tables scattered to the left and ahead, but if you walk around the plantings, there are larger tables in the rear. We had reserved a place for eight, and they fit us in with plenty of room around as a buffer. Few other parties joined us back there, so it was very quiet and great for friends catching up. We tried several wines, but I was a bit shock ed that the list wasn't longer: three reds, three whites, a few rosés and sparkling offerings was all there were. The only Italian red was a blend, which was ok. 60% Sangiovese, it was ok, but I'd have loved a bold Tuscan red like a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo or a full-on Sangiovese. I ordered the wild mushroom flatbread and the pasta carbonara. the flatbread was delicious, and very filling. Half went home for a lunch treat the next day! The pasta was ok, but there weren't the flavors I was expecting. Hardly any meat was in the dish, and it was just a kinda "ok" creamy pasta dish. But the service and the atmosphere was amazing! It's funny - many in this group have met since and we always remark how other places have such a larger wine selection than this one that has "wine" in the name. Maybe they need to change the name if they aren't going to have a wider selection. Still a fun place, just done expect a lot of selection.

    While in the area I decided to stop in prior to attending a showing of the Broadway play The Wiz…read morenearby at DPAC. A friend purchased a Gift Card for me years ago after learning that I enjoyed my experience at a wine tasting & small bites event at their sister location in Downtown Raleigh. That location has since then closed and I had not gotten around to visiting. Upon arrival I sat at the bar and was kindly greeted. The bartender shared with me my options for redeeming my Gift Card. I decided to have a wine flight and small bites before heading to DPAC. I chose the Charles Gonnet French White wine. The wine is made with Jacquere grapes grown organically in clay and limestone soil. It is medium-bodied and dry with melon rind, green almond, and pear notes. Very nice. I also chose the Brooks Rose . This rosé wine is made with Pinot Noir grapes from Willamette Valley. Lastly, I had a Greek white wine called Tethalassomenos. A famous wine of ancient Kos (4th century BC). In ancient times wine was diluted with water before consumption (krasi). However, the Ismiotes (Municipality of Kos who lived in Kefalos in the present Greek region) diluted it with sea water. Each chosen paired perfectly with my appetizer or choice, the Burrata Crostini. This was topped with sprouts(micro greens) and Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Delicious! Service was friendly and attentive. I really enjoyed winding down here prior to attending the show. I highly recommend this as a nice place to enjoy prior to or after a show in the area.

    Photos
    The Wine Feed - French toast

    French toast

    The Wine Feed - Entrance from the back room

    Entrance from the back room

    The Wine Feed

    See all

    Liberty & Plenty Distillery - The Liberty & Plenty Distillery lounge is situated in the front of the distillery, and features a full cocktail bar and patio.

    Liberty & Plenty Distillery

    4.8(16 reviews)
    0.4 mi

    What a lovely surprise to find this gem tucked away in downtown Durham! I had heard great things…read moreabout their espresso martini, so when we finally visited, we had to try it. And, it truly lived up to the hype. One of the best we've ever had! I also tried two other cocktails made with their house-distilled rum and gin, and both were delicious and perfectly balanced. The seasonal menu is creative and reasonably priced, we were genuinely impressed. The ambiance is charming and cozy despite a bit warm inside (the AC was pretty weak), but quiet and tastefully decorated with velvet couches, exposed walls, vintage touches, and fresh flowers on each table. We had fun flipping through their amazing cocktail book collection on the shelf too. The bartenders were very friendly and offered us focaccia from Ninth Street Bakery to pair with our drinks for free, which was such a thoughtful and tasty addition. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience and are so happy to see a micro-distillery thriving in the heart of Durham. Can't wait to return for an official tour and to sample more of their spirits!

    Really fun cocktail bar- that specializes in rums! First impression- I called ahead to see if our…read moredog was allowed to sit on the outside patio, and they told me not only is she allowed, but we aren't allowed to come without her. That response will get a smile every time. Super dog-friendly, to say the least, both outside and inside. Outside has several tables under a covered area, and inside has a few couches (with tiny tables) and a long bar you can sit at. We've been a few times now, and the service is super friendly and helpful, every time. It's small and intimate inside, but we never have a problem finding a seat! I love that they have snacks you can help yourself to, in airtight jars at the bar (peanut butter filled pretzels, sour worms, etc). Also important to note- the inside is NOT air conditioned. We stopped in on a HOT day, and it's brutal inside, with cloth couches and just one small fan. Love this bar, all of their cocktails (wine available too), and all of the staff! Will be back (a lot)!!

    Photos
    Liberty & Plenty Distillery
    Liberty & Plenty Distillery
    Liberty & Plenty Distillery - Damn good Espresso Martini

    See all

    Damn good Espresso Martini

    Alley Twenty Six - Y'all when I say this burger lived up to the hype!!! IG: @betterwithju

    Alley Twenty Six

    4.3(426 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    We had an extremely memorable experience at Alley Twenty Six, in large part to our amazing server,…read moreAnthony! We made a reservation for a Saturday night dinner and he made sure we were well taken care of all night. We started the night with their James Bears award winning cocktails, and every drink we ordered was a hit! Spiced strawberry mule, Sunset Sipper, and the table favorite: Earl Please. The latter two drinks were mocktails and they were still standouts! As for the food, the Alley burger was perfectly cooked: juicy patty paired with truffle cheese and simple toppings that really highlighted the burger itself. And shoestring fries are always a good choice with a delicious burger. Ricotta gnocchi was also very good. As our server Anthony said, let's get this burger nominated!

    It's always exciting to go to Alley26, namely for their food. Out of all the options in a block…read moreradius (with the exception of sushi nearby), I will always chose Alley26. Over burgers, over French food, over ramen, over Indian. Why? Because Alley26 serves delectable oysters, succulent burgers, and incredible tin fish. Yes, tin fish. If you haven't seen their extensive menu of fish, you must! While it's not for everyone, it is a tinned fish enthusiasts heaven! I go here to celebrate milestones with a good friend and we always have a mini feast, paired with a glass or two of wine. My favorite time to go is when the weather is comfortable and we can sit in the alley way, it's soooo chic that it feels like you're sitting outdoors at a meal in Italy of France. Service is always on point and I forget the bartenders name that is super knowledgeable and super kind. When I remember, I'll circle back to update this review. If you're thinking about this place, definitely check it out! The only inconvenience though is that I believe is 21+ over, at least at night it is.

    Photos
    Alley Twenty Six - Pimento cheese & pepper jelly

    Pimento cheese & pepper jelly

    Alley Twenty Six - Pimento cheese on baguette

    Pimento cheese on baguette

    Alley Twenty Six - Deviled eggs - lifewithhanny

    See all

    Deviled eggs - lifewithhanny

    Aperitif - Tiramisu - very good quality, perfect temperature, taste and texture!

    Aperitif

    4.4(57 reviews)
    3.5 mi
    $$

    This is a great little bistro/wine bar/neighborhood spot. It's definitely upscale in feel, but…read morestill reasonably priced. Most of the seating is on a second-floor covered terrace, though there are tables inside as well. It has interesting city views of the University Hill area over South Square towards the "hypodermic building." There are parking options on all sides. The wine list is nice, but I like trying their specialty cocktails. These tend to have interesting additions such as tea-infused syrups and other creative ingredients. I've always had great sandwiches here at lunchtime, particularly the Santorini (a take on a gyro) and the Yacht Club, which is similar to a club sandwich but brightened up and made scrumptious by apricot jam. Their side of Caesar salad is always nice and crisp, with just the right amount of dressing and flavorful cheese shavings. The staff is engaged and attentive without going overboard. There's really no better lunch experience in the area on a nice warm day when you can just hang out and relax with a varied, delightful menu.

    Located in University Hill, this bar offers a host of daily drink specials, charcuterie and…read moresandwiches. We visited on a weekend evening and seating was plentiful. We sat outside since the weather was nice - they have comfy lounge chairs and an aesthetic setup with string lights which really add to the ambiance. We ordered a couple of sandwiches - mine came with chicken, bacon, and plenty of cheese. The food was tasty but average. The service was a bit slow and we unfortunately ended up having to go inside the restaurant to request the check to get to our next destination in time - however, staff were super friendly. Overall, the vibes outside were amazing and I would consider returning for drinks on a warm evening.

    Photos
    Aperitif - Inside seating

    Inside seating

    Aperitif - Ch ch ch cherry bomb, boozy tiramisu, expresso martini

    Ch ch ch cherry bomb, boozy tiramisu, expresso martini

    Aperitif - Bar and inside sitting area

    See all

    Bar and inside sitting area

    Brunello Wine bar - wine_bars - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...