Before Drink Up month comes to a close, we want to introduce our audience to another skillful beverage maker. Meet Will Bryant, manager and mixologist of The Parlor at Heights House — one of Raleigh’s most sophisticated places to sip.
Born and raised in the City of Oaks, Will has embraced his role at this 1860 Italianate-style mansion in the Boylan Heights neighborhood. The Parlor, which celebrated its first anniversary in June, offers guests a tranquil and intimate escape.
“We want people to feel like this is their home for a little while,” Will told RALtoday.
The menu at this adults-only elevated parlor consists of an all-Italian wine list, local beers, and Will’s ever-changing creative cocktails.
We sat down at Will’s favorite spot inside the historic Raleigh property to chat about ingredients, his inspirations, and local hidden gems.
Tell us about your background.
I grew up on the edge of Cary and went to Athens Drive Magnet High School. I studied business and marketing at App State. After college, I moved back to Raleigh. Then [in 2016], me and my dad opened up a restaurant on Hillsborough Street called H-Street Kitchen.
It only lasted for about a year. My dad has been in the industry for a long time, and he got offered an amazing job that he couldn’t turn down. So we decided to sell H-Street. I moved to Charlotte for five years after we sold the business. I worked at a place called Fin & Fino, and that’s really where I came into my own as a bartender.
But Charlotte just wasn’t for me. So, I decided to move back home without knowing what I was going to do. Then someone sent this job to me on Instagram and I applied.
(Spoiler: He got the job.)
What is this month’s Drink Up special?
For the month of July we will be offering Prosecco & Sorbetto to create a delicious bubbly and refreshing cocktail to enjoy.
- Asolo “Bele Casel” Prosecco poured over blood orange sorbetto
- Venturini Baldini Sparkling Rosé poured over peach sorbetto
What inspires your bar menu?
The Italian Coast and “The White Lotus.” I always try to stay Italian-inspired and try combinations that not everyone would think of. I want my cocktails to be unique, but approachable. My inspiration comes from thinking outside of the box and really wanting to wow people.
If you were a cocktail, what would you be?
A mezcal Negroni, because it’s bittersweet and different. I’m not really a smoky person, but with a mezcal Negroni, the flavors balance out so well. The Campari is bitter and the vermouth is sweet. It cuts the smokiness ever so slightly.
What’s your go-to hidden gem in Raleigh?
Wilco [William & Company] is one of my favorite places.
Their vibe is immaculate and the cocktails are so good. You can bring your dog or get a pizza delivered [from Oakwood Pizza Box next door]. Everyone who works there is always super nice.
Is there anything else you want Raleighites to know about The Parlor?
We are starting to host a lot more in-house parlor events.
In August, we are doing a little sip and shop market. [Just dropped: Parlor Pizza Night in collaboration with Tepuy Pizza on Thursday, Aug. 3.] We’re also going to start hosting some wine classes. And of course, The Parlor is open six days a week. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are always welcome.
So, what are you waiting for? Call a babysitter and plan your next romantic date night, fun girls night out, or just visit to sip on Will’s specialty cocktails.
Plus, stay up-to-date with new pop-up events and hour changes by following The Parlor at Heights House on Instagram.
