What began as a pop-up space on Central has since evolved into a full-blown brick-and-mortar cocktail bar in Plaza Midwood.
Humbug, named for a humor magazine printed in the 1950s, initially established a loyal fan base as a pop-up bar within the boutique hotel Refuge, located a few doors down from Thirsty Beaver and Moo & Brew. The arrangement was never going to be permanent. However, it provided the perfect location and size for humble Humbug to establish its reputation and build a business.
According to Humbug, “We are bridging the gap between the modern craft cocktail bar and the laid-back neighborhood bars we enjoy frequenting ourselves.”
The new location is 1,850 square feet and contains an open bar area fronted by large, garage door-style windows. The back of the bar can be reserved for private events and contains a lounge area with a pool table and TV. Beyond the lounge is a rear patio with seating for 12. Exposed brick walls alongside leather couches and armchairs indeed evoke the luxurious coziness of a craft cocktail bar. Meanwhile, the pool table at the back of the space, booth seating up front, and colorful bartenders give every indication of a neighborhood bar.
Always Delicious, Never Pretentious at This Cocktail Bar In Plaza Midwood
Business partners Larry Suggs and Andrew Schools own Humbug. Suggs started in the craft beer industry (you may recognize him from The Unknown Brewing Co.) before finding his way to the craft cocktail scene. He spent time slinging cocktails at Dandelion Market, the Cellar at Duckworth’s, and The Punch Room. Then, he joined forces with a few other mixologists to form Crowntown Collective, a beverage consulting group. Andrew Schools established the beverage program at Greensboro’s star restaurant, Machete. Then, he teamed up with Suggs to bring Humbug to life.
“Our philosophy behind the beverage program is to be ‘Always Delicious, Never Pretentious,’’ states Humbug’s website. That deliciousness starts with a robust cocktail list that includes standouts like The Moon Landing Was a Hoax (Bombay dry gin, orgeat, dry curacao, lime, mint, and soda water), Somewhere a Clock Is Ticking (vodka, earl gray, lavender, lemon, and bubbles), and High Horse (Evan Williams BIB and yuzu lemongrass soda). In addition to cocktails, Humbug offers an array of shooters and natural wines. Plus, you’ll find draft beer from local breweries and bar classics like Guinness and Miller High Life. Beyond beverages, Humbug also offers a modest snack menu. Finger foods like black bean hummus, mixed nuts, and olives are on deck to subdue light peckishness.
Reservations aren’t required, and, in fact, Humbug doesn’t accept them. All visitors to this cocktail bar in Plaza Midwood must be 21 or over to enter. The bar is open starting at 4 pm every day of the week except Tuesdays.
