The Ivey in the Alley — Restaurant in Wilmington

After working in the downtown area of Wilmington, one tends to get in a rut going to the same bars and visiting the same ol' bartenders you're used to - so when a new spot opens up it's always a must to check out and see what sets them apart from the rest... After stumbling (not drunkenly) into the Ivey, the decor immediately grabs your attention. It makes you feel like it's been there for far longer than it has, which is a plus for me! After seeing the bar packed all the way around, I thought for sure I would be waiting forever for a drink, but Courtney quickly came over and said she would be right with me. This small acknowledgement means a lot, personally, and I would have gladly waited 30 more minutes for a drink, but thankfully didn't have to. She came right back, pointed out a few of her favorite cocktails, and within a few seconds I had one of the best old fashions I've ever drank! Super stoked to have a new spot to enjoy a good drink and great conversation. I'll definitely be back soon!...

Tried going here last night with a group of 5 as we have been wanting to check it out for a few weeks now. Bouncer let us know there is a $1 cover charge to cover the membership of 3 people per NC law. Okay, not a problem. Hand him a $20 and he looks at us and refuses to take the $20 saying he doesn’t have change. Doesn’t have change for a $20 at a bar that requires a cash only entry fee? Asked if he could just get change from the bartender and he rudely said no like we were asking an absurd question. Like, what? Sorry we didn’t have $1 bills on us, but I have never heard of a place not having change. Where was their cash box? Blue Post right next door has the same policy, yet the bouncers have a cash box at the door. Seems a little sketchy. Where is he putting this money?

Good way to lose business. As a brand new establishment you may want to consider who you hire, their attitudes, and having change when cash is required to enter.

We ended up going to The Husk and spending our...

They say there’s no place like home.. well, when I first moved to NC, The Ivey was one of the first places that I went to.. and immediately, felt like my second home. Christian made me my first drink (Strawberry Kiss), Tanner learned right away that I love water (no ice), and Abby figured out that I like to talk (and move around the bar.. a lot).

But those aren’t the only names worth mentioning. Scotty, Courtney, Maddi, Zach, Justin, Chase, Hayden, Dex, Momo, and I know I’m going to leave someone out but it truly is one of those places like Cheers, where everyone knows your name.

Needless to say if I could give more stars than 5 (and just rent out a corner of the bar and call it my legit home), I would. This place has the best bar staff in all of Wilmington. Cocktails, mocktails, local beers and Tito’s & Lemonade on draft (!!!!).

They’re not just bartenders, they’re friends. When you’re here you’re...