Queeny's — Restaurant in Durham

I hate doing this, because I have longed to find a bar to duck into on my walk home from work, and Queeny’s was about to become just that. Regardless of how obviously clique-ish the bar staff is, regardless of the fact that there’s literally been twice in the many times I’ve been there that I HAVENT had to ask to be served (after sitting at the bar for more than 7-8 mins), I literally love that place. And after my most recent visit this past Saturday, I’m off to find another spot, as I will not ever walk into that place again.

My friend I was with literally asked the bartender “I know we can add tofu, ground beef or chorizo to the nachos, but can we add a chicken breast to them instead?” The bartenders answer…… “no, we really don’t want to throw them any curve balls back there (in the kitchen)”….. after being told to add my friends order to my existing tab, she literally ignored me and I had to ask if I could order as well….. asking for nachos and a single chick breast, and I told her I’d be happy to cut it up myself and put it on top of my nachos. I should have known better than to stir the pot. My friends food arrived along with my chicken breast. No nachos. I sat for 25 mins before another employee asked if I was waiting on anything. It was then after she came back from the kitchen that I realized the nachos never made it on the ticket. Another bartender then placed the order, and had a side convo with the original bartender who missed adding the order. Another 40 mins went by, I was sitting next to service where other customers were ordering. Two customers ordered nachos AFTER mine went in and theirs came out before mine did. I also sat with an empty beer glass in front of me for almost that entire 40 mins as well. I finally asked to have my nachos placed in a box as I couldn’t stand to watch the original bartender ignore me for another minute, and sat for another 8 or 9 mins. I had to ask for a box for my chix breast. I made no mention when the nachos were still on my check. Because I was taking them with me. Had it been my parents restaurant I grew up in (you never know who you’re waiting on), it would have IMMEDIATELY been removed, regardless of whether or not they still wanted them. I paid my tab, and though it took every ounce of my being to still tip 15% (I’ve been in the service industry for almost 30years) , I quietly signed my check and left, without once receiving an apology. For some reason I still wanted to leave my standard 30% tip, but I finally realized that I’m clearly not accepted into their “clique”….. and it’s sad. A space that’s supposed to be all inclusive being extremely exclusive. And I know I’m not the only one who’s experienced this level of service from their staff. I’m so angry that I have to find another establishment to spend my money at, but it is what it is. I wish them luck and hope that they can learn how to serve everyone in their community with the same level of respect. Oddly enough it’s the exact same reason I won’t return to the speakeasy (Kingfisher)...

Durham offers a plethora of superb dining and drinking spots. However, some establishments, despite their aesthetic appeal, miss the mark when it comes to connecting with their guests. Having spent years tending bar, I've come to appreciate the importance of understanding guests' needs. Even during the busiest shifts, a bartender should always acknowledge patrons. A quick "Hello! I'll be with you shortly" can buy the bartender precious time to maintain excellent service without making guests feel ignored.

Upon relocating to Durham, I set out to discover the city's most authentic, welcoming bar. My quest led me to Queeny's—a place that immediately felt like home. The atmosphere at Queeny's is nothing short of incredible. The bar's unique setup is complemented by a cozy room perfect for reading or an intimate date, yet it still pulses with the vibrant energy that permeates the venue.

What truly cemented my love for Queeny's was the bartenders. Prioritizing guest interaction above all, they have a way of making you feel like long-lost friends. Their genuine energy and enthusiasm make every visit memorable. With standout staff like Tom, Rashaan, Leean, Camile, Anthony, Mary (sorry if i misspelled any names)…I cant remember them all, it's clear they are the heartbeat of this establishment.

The culinary offerings match the high bar set by the staff. From the delicious burger to the phenomenal Birria Dip, the delectable nachos, and the beers on tap—every item is a testament to Queeny's commitment to quality.

For those in search of a local bar that feels like an extension of your living room, I highly recommend Queeny's. Drop by and mention that Juan sent you. Trust me,...

Queeny’s feels less like a restaurant and more like a place for the owners and their friends to mess around. From the start, the service was lacking: The bartender ignored us for a few minutes before taking our order; they then promptly forgot to have my partner sign the receipt. Our drinks came quickly, but since they consisted of a beer and the frozen Irish coffee ($9.50 for a cocktail in a tiny cup from a slushie machine?), that’s not as much of a selling point as it sounds. We sat down with our drinks and proceeded to wait, and wait, and wait some more for a sandwich and nachos. When multiple people who came in well after us received their food, and we still had none at the forty minute mark, I went up and inquired. It turned out the bartender never put our order in; they also didn’t seem to remember that we had ever ordered. During those forty minutes, the three bartenders were all shooting the breeze with customers; I also later learned that one of the owners was at the table next to us, also shooting the breeze. At no point did anyone ask us how long we had been waiting, even though we had the placard with our number prominently placed. Our order was eventually rushed, and 15-20 minutes later, our meals came out--albeit at different times. It was fine. At least we got a story out of our first date night since becoming...