Local Sips: 5 Fun Places to Grab a Drink in Greenville, NC

©Journal Communications/Eric Waters

The beverage scene in Greenville-Pitt County is beckoning, thanks to the many amazing establishments providing welcoming environments and creative cocktails. 

Kelly Toppin, the chief mixologist and beverage director at Crush Vodka Distillery + Cocktail Bar, has a pulse on local beverages, not to mention she also spearheads cocktail creation at Crush. 

“I always have to be on my toes creatively, changing up the menus for the occasion,” Toppin says. 

Crush is one of many local establishments that offers rotating menus full of creative options. Ahead, Toppin suggests five local hangouts where residents can kick back and enjoy some delicious drinks.

©Journal Communications/Eric Waters

1. Crush Vodka Distillery + Cocktail Bar

Yes, she might be biased, but Toppin’s obviously a big fan of Crush, where she is the chief mixologist. Many people come to Crush with a group or for celebratory purposes, taking in its fun and upbeat environment. “We can do any cocktail,” Toppin says. “We pride ourselves on being able to make a drink for every customer based on their tastes.” 

Toppin recommends anything off the seasonal menu or classics like an Old-Fashioned or espresso martini. 

2. Jefferson’s Wine Shop 

If wine is more your speed, you can’t go wrong with Jefferson’s. A locally owned wine shop in downtown Greenville, Jefferson’s offers wine tastings, making it easy for people to try something new. “Often, they’ll have someone come out and do wine tastings from different regions,” Toppin says. 

The staff is always willing to listen and make suggestions to suit tastes. The wine bar also doubles as a flower and gift shop, so the setting is beautiful with a warm and comfortable atmosphere. Open until 6 p.m., it’s a great place to grab a casual glass of wine before heading to dinner downtown. 

3. Starlight Cafe and Farm 

This downtown farm-to-table restaurant is all about keeping things fresh. It’s not a secret that the food served there is delicious, but it’s also a fabulous place to enjoy a great cocktail – and it’s where Toppin got her start.

“They source all of their ingredients locally, and they are fresh,” she says. “You’re not going to get anything that’s not made in-house, down to their syrups and juices, which are freshly squeezed. You know whatever you’re getting there will be made with fresh, real ingredients.” 

Starlight also changes up its featured cocktail menu seasonally, serving lots of fresh fruit mojitos in the spring and summer. Toppin loves to order a raspberry yuzu gimlet, noting that Starlight stocks unique ingredients that combine to make interesting, unique and fresh cocktails. 

4. Nino’s Cucina Italiana 

Though well-known for its savory Italian fare, Nino’s also has an excellent cocktail selection and wine list.

One of its strengths, Toppin notes, is its expert pairing of food and beverages, creating an incredible dining experience. “Normally when I’m there, I like to get wine,” she says, “but I also love their espresso martini as a dessert. They have a seasonal menu, as well, and in the fall, I like to get their apple cider margarita.” 

The atmosphere is intimate and perfect for sharing a drink. The bartenders are knowledgeable and friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.

Courtesy of Hilton Garden Inn

5. 1717 the Rooftop 

For drinks with a view, the go-to spot is 1717 the Rooftop, located atop the Hilton Garden Inn in downtown Greenville. It’s the tallest building around and perfect for taking in the sights, whether you’re drinking inside or on the patio. “They have an excellent cocktail menu, a good wine selection, and they can really nail the classics,” Toppin says. 

1717’s rotating craft libations menu features aquatic-named drinks in honor of the restaurant’s history. The restaurant offers menu items that are a nod to Stede Bonnet, a pirate who set sail in the year 1717 and had connections to the Battle of Cape Fear River. Some of the fun cocktail names include X Marks the Spot, Pirate’s Punch and Sailor’s Delight, with the latter two featuring Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, of course. 1717 also offers mocktails for those looking for alternative options.