Arcana Bar and Lounge
Welcome to **Arcana Bar and Lounge**, a hidden gem nestled at 331 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701. This lesbian bar is not just another watering hole; it’s a vibrant hub for the LGBTQIA community and their allies, where creativity flows as freely as the drinks. With a phone number dial-in of +1 919-973-1675, you can easily connect to the heart of Durham's nightlife.
Arcana’s interior boasts a stunning Art Nouveau design, creating an atmosphere that feels both chic and inviting. Visitors often describe it as a speakeasy, hidden away from the bustle of downtown, making it the perfect escape to unwind and socialize. The moody lighting and intimate seating arrangements encourage conversation, whether you’re catching up with friends or meeting new faces.
One of the standout features of Arcana is its significant cocktail menu that keeps patrons coming back for more. Signature drinks like Benny & The Bison, Lucky Strike, and April Fool demonstrate the bar's commitment to crafting delicious beverages that are both innovative and masterfully balanced. Patrons rave about the cocktail experience; as Charlotte Milton-Sater puts it, they are "the best cocktails I’ve ever had," finely tuned so you savor every sip without overwhelming your palate with liquor.
In addition to its extraordinary drink selection, Arcana regularly features live music and themed events that add to its charm and community spirit. From low-fi melodies to folk bands, there’s always something exciting happening here. The energy elevates around 8 p.m., where you can indulge in the rhythm while enjoying tarot readings, which add an enchanting twist to your night.
Arcana Bar and Lounge is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a safe haven where inclusivity reigns supreme. As Rachel Cushman beautifully articulated, it’s a "classy yet not pretentious atmosphere" that embraces local art, music, and community events. Regulars and newcomers alike find solace in its welcoming vibe, where all individuals are respected and celebrated.
Whether you're in the mood for an exotic cocktail, a friendly chat, or just a lively night out, **Arcana Bar and Lounge** delivers it all. With skilled bartenders, unique cocktails, and a vibrant atmosphere, it’s no wonder why this bar has become a beloved staple in Durham. So gather your friends, step into a night of magic, and experience the allure of Arcana—you won’t be disappointed!
Menu
Location
Address: 331 W Main St, Durham, NC 27701, United States
Phone: +1 919-973-1675
Business info
- Wheelchair-accessible EntranceYes
- Identifies As Women-ownedYes
- Serves Dine-inYes
- DeliveryNo
- TakeawayNo
- Fast ServiceYes
- Great Beer SelectionYes
- Serves Great CocktailsYes
- Live MusicYes
- Live PerformancesYes
- Serves AlcoholYes
- Serves BeerYes
- Serves CocktailsYes
- DancingYes
- Serves SpiritsYes
- Serves WineYes
- Outside Food AllowedYes
- ToiletYes
- CasualYes
- CosyYes
- TrendyYes
- Good For GroupsYes
- Doesn't Accept ReservationsYes
- Accepts Credit CardsYes
- Accepts Debit CardsYes
- Credit CardsYes
- Free Parking LotYes
- Plenty Of ParkingYes
Last Reviews
-
Author: Charlotte Milton-Sater
Quite literally the best cocktails I’ve ever had. They taste AMAZING! Usually I find that bars pour drinks too heavy on the liquor but arcana has this down to a science and I don’t think I’ll ever find somewhere as good as this! April Fool pictured in the photo.
-
Author: Rachel Cushman
If you want to go somewhere totally different from other bars in Durham in a classy yet not pretentious atmosphere with a creative menu full of delicious drinks with so much intention and thought in their design this is the place for you. Arcana is not only a safe space for the LGBTQIA community and their allies, but such a great spot to check out local art, music, and community events. It’s been my favorite bar for years and I am never let down by the staff or the diverse crowd of regulars and new comers at this bar.
-
Author: Julianna Perez
Absolutely love and miss coming to this super cool underground bar in Durham. The women who own it are straight up badasses, and I loved going on night when one of them was tending bar. They had local musicians rotating on the regular, and the best exotic cocktails in town. Hope they reopen very soon. Miss you, Arcana crew!
-
Author: Elizabeth H
My heart is so warmed each time I visit Arcana. I adore the staff, they are so caring and attentive. I love the different themed nights, especially queer bachata and dyke night. Thank you for being such a light of love in our community!!! I feel so welcomed and safe there!! It’s fun to dance and party amongst lovely people!!!
Search Other Restaurants
Also Recommended
- Pizza Maximum La Baie 1083 Rue Bagot, La Baie, QC G7B 2P2, Canada
- ON BALANCE Condominio Moll del Valle, Local PB-01, Calz. del Valle 400, Del Valle, 66220 San Pedro Garza Garcia, N.L., Mexico
- MJ's at Buttonwood Manor 845 NJ-34, Matawan, NJ 07747, United States
- The Donut Hut Shanklin Chine Ave, Shanklin PO37 6AQ, United Kingdom
- Front St. Pizza 315 E Front St, Missoula, MT 59802, United States
- Papa's Drive-Thru 3522 Pierson Rd, Flint, MI 48504, United States
- Super Machi 7931 NW 2nd St, Miami, FL 33126, United States
- Cantafio's Buckhorn Supper Club N8802 Co Rd A, Beaver Dam, WI 53916, United States
- Carnitas El Rincon - King rd 1199 S King Rd #20, San Jose, CA 95122, United States
- Maria's taco and bar 288-G Sunset Ave, Suisun City, CA 94585, United States