Hidden-Door Concept Joins Multi-City Expansion Red Phone Booth, an upscale speakeasy concept accessed through a replica London telephone booth, has officially opened in downtown Durham. The venue is located at 125 W. Orange St. and marks the sixth location for the brand, joining established lounges in Atlanta, Miami, Dallas, and Nashville. The concept blends 1920s design with modern hospitality, offering guests a menu of classic cocktails, rare spirits, and a curated cigar program. The venue stocks 150-200 premium cigars and features a state-of-the-art air purification system using Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization technology that refreshes interior air approximately every two minutes.

Membership and Access Model While walk-in guests are welcome, Red Phone Booth operates a membership program that provides priority entry, preferred seating, access to private tastings, rare bottle showcases, private event privileges, and personalized cigar storage. A password is required to locate the entrance.

Local Ownership The Durham location is backed by local entrepreneurs and dental practitioners Dr.

Michael A. Thomas and Dr. Ralph K. Mensah, both University of North Carolina alumni. "Durham is a city that values innovation while honoring its history, and that's exactly what drew us to Red Phone Booth," Dr. Mensah said. "We wanted to introduce an experience that feels truly distinctive, one that combines exceptional hospitality, timeless craftsmanship and an atmosphere unlike anything else in the market." Dr. Thomas added: "As someone who grew up in North Carolina and has built both my career and business here, it's incredibly meaningful to invest in a concept that contributes to Durham's continued growth. Red Phone Booth reflects the city's evolution, offering a sophisticated gathering place that complements the area's thriving culinary, business and cultural scene."

Why It Matters

The opening signals continued expansion of upscale nightlife concepts in secondary markets, with speakeasy-themed venues gaining traction among affluent diners seeking experiential hospitality. The membership model and premium cigar integration target a specific demographic of high-spend guests in Durham's downtown revival corridor.

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Written by FBM Publications Editors