Durham’s very own Star Wars cantina

5 out of 5 - Stop by The Parlour

The Parlour is the absolute best place to end an early summer night in downtown Durham. The shop consistently has an amazing, electric atmosphere. It feels like the Durham equivalent of a Star Wars Cantina. The stakes are much lower but the vibes are very similar. You get to see folks from all over bonding over something delicious. An elderly couple leaving a DPAC show, kids flooding in from a Durham Bulls game, downtown locals stopping by on a hot day. Ice cream from the Parlour calls to everyone.

Nestled in the heart of downtown, you never know what you’ll stumble upon when you walk outside of those doors. You might see a musical performance or a bike meetup or whatever else downtown Durham is brewing at the time.

To me, the Parlour feels like a part of Durham as much as the Can Opener or ATC. I get some warm and fuzzy feelings seeing their storefront packed. If you’ve never been before, definitely expect a long line in the summer. It’s well worth the wait—you might even make some new friends while you inch closer and closer to that sweet treat.

Most ordered flavor: Cookies and Cream (duh)

Favorite flavor: Peach (seasonal)