Hello dear
Welcome To The Sorrow Drowner
Nestled in Wilmington, NC, "The Sorrow Drowner" is an enchanting tiki bar that promises a unique culinary adventure. With its captivating atmosphere, this venue elegantly blends an old theater's charm with meticulously curated antiques. The drink menu features adventurous libations from around the world, including the delightful Painkiller cocktail. Diners rave about the innovative pupu platters, highlighting options like the Traditionalist and a noteworthy vegan platter. Guests have lauded the delicious desserts, including the iconic Dole Whip, making it a must-visit for both locals and travelers. With live entertainment and a welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect spot for an unforgettable night out.
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About
The Sorrow Drowner
Welcome to The Sorrow Drowner, an enchanting oasis nestled in the heart of Wilmington, North Carolina. As I approached the vibrant establishment located at 19 S 10th St, the historical charm of the old theater facade lured me in, inviting me to explore the myriad experiences awaiting inside. From the moment I entered, I felt as though I had stepped back in time, transported to an era reminiscent of Polynesian paradise.
What sets The Sorrow Drowner apart is its unique blend of prohibition-era cocktails and an undeniably playful tiki ambiance. The cocktails boast creative names such as the Corpse Reviver #2 and the Ramos Gin Fizz, each crafted to perfection. I highly recommend trying the Painkiller, an exhilarating combination that brings together coconut cream and a stunning cinnamon presentation—a delightful flavor explosion that is both refreshing and fun. There’s a reason patrons rave about it!
The food menu complements the drink offerings beautifully. I was pleasantly surprised by the delicious pupu platters, particularly the vegan option that featured an array of sumptuous bites including meatballs and spring rolls that defy the expectations set by typical bar fare. My dining companions equally enjoyed the regular pupu platter, showcasing the culinary creativity that defines this venue. The blend of tradition and innovation here is truly commendable.
The atmosphere is indeed captivating, as echoed by guests in their glowing reviews. With their eclectic décor, a two-story expanse filled with oddities, and a stage for live performances, each visit promises something fresh. Imagine winding down your evening with a Shifty Mai Tai while swaying to tunes from talented musicians, or perhaps finding yourself at a thrilling murder mystery night. It’s this spirit of community and celebration that makes The Sorrow Drowner a hub for memorable moments.
In conclusion, whether you’re searching for a cozy spot for a date or a lively destination to gather with friends, The Sorrow Drowner offers an experience that transcends the ordinary. With its imaginative cocktails, delectable food, and nostalgic ambiance, this bar is not just a place; it is a cherished escape where everyone is welcome to drown their sorrows and rejoice in good company. I wholeheartedly recommend making your way here—you won’t regret it!
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Detailed and captivating atmosphere! The drinks were fun and tasty. I had the painkiller cocktail (15) - I really enjoyed the coconut cream top and the burning cinnamon stick. I'd highly recommend this place if you're looking for an enchanting atmosphere to get drinks with friends or for a date. I'd love to come back for an event, as the space is centered around a stage. I would be obsessed if they held a murder mystery event! ”
“ Celebrated a birthday here but met the owner and learned about all the fun weekly/monthly events they did and my spouse and I wished we were locals so we could make this our regular bar. I’ve lived in NC for nearly 3 years and have scoured the coastline from Savannah, GA to Outerbanks during that time looking for an authentic tiki bar to and my surprise this is the only one! But it’s a great one! The drinks were delicious! The night we were there was a musician/DJ who played Polynesian style covers via xylophone. We had a dresser of deep friend uncrustables in cinnamon powered sugar that were insane. The building is an old theater and you can explore the 2 stories of meticulously curated oddities and antiques which would be enough for a visit alone. I’m set to leave soon on our next PCS to the W coast but this is by far my favorite most unique bar found in the southeast. I hope I can make it back one more time and try the vegetarian pupu platter! ”
“ Amazing atmosphere! Even for a quiet Thursday the bartender and entertainment were amazing and we had a wonderful evening! I definitely plan on coming back soon! ”
“ Hands down one of the best tiki-ish bars I've been to! We arrived when they opened at 4pm. They weren't quite open so we had to wait outside for a few minutes. The cocktails were great but the food was what surprised us. We got the pupu platter and everything on it was really tasty! Wandering through the building was super fun, especially since there was hardly anyone else there. Really cool tiki/old world travel theme. We'd love to come back and see a live act here! ”
“ Believe the hype. This was an amazing experience. We came in on a Sunday dinner and were not disappointed. 2 of us were vegans and their vegan pupu platter exceeded our expectations. We anticipated that the food will just be an ordinary bar food, but we were wrong. The platter has more than average tasty vegan meatballs, spring rolls and buns. Our friends who ordered the regular pupu platter said the same thing - the food was sumptuous. On top of that, ambiance was tiki-filled experience, like one of the Survivor tribal council camp, in a good way. I ordered the Painkiller cocktail which was meticulously curated, tasty and strong. Bartender took his time ensuring the cocktails were exquisitely made. We’ll definitely be back again! ”
“ Wow... I was sent here by a friend... THIS PLACE IS AMAZING!!! The decor, the stage, the drinks and the staff was more than accommodating and overwhelming with joy, desire and mystery. I toured the place and found each room had hidden secrets and more tales than Pinocchio. I wanted to explore every inch of each room, due to sooo many interesting things. The skulls, the shrunken heads, and the creepy doll on the shelf, all made me have the night of my life....and the night was a slow night!!! How is this place not busy every single night???mYbe I showed up to late!!! I would visit again and again!!! I am now interested in what the shows are like. From the time I entered the door with the lady at the front desk, to sitting at the bar and talking about chicken eggs and salmon, to be the last person inside was an amazing journey through the night. My cheeks hurt from smiling and laughing with Bea making her flaming drinks and her partner mesmerizing me on a day in the life of a Vegan!!! Definitely will come back, and thanks to my friend for the discovery of the hidden gem in Wilmington!!! I even met the owner and what an amazing person he is. The vibe of this place was not to be expected from the exterior, but it amazed, excited and mesmerized unlike anything ever in my life!!! If you have not gone.... then you are totally missing out!!! ”
“ The Sorrow Drowner is now one of my favorite places. We visited for a birthday dinner. It was perfectly suited to the family member we were celebrating. Everyone found something of interest in its museum/theatre setting. The food and drinks were visually appealing and satisfying. The employees we encountered were kind, attentive, and informative. We all plan on returning. It is also a place I would choose for any out-of-town visitors. I am glad we chose it. ”
“ These drinks are what "tiki drinks" are supposed be. Holy crap the painkiller was great, fresh grated nutmeg and a cinnamon stick burning like incense balanced on top with actual fresh fruit (not your typical bar oranges). The show was entertaining and lively, south pacific live music, classy burlesque, and a bit of humor. We didn't have reservations, but we're able to be seated at the bar pretty quickly by the delightful hostess. Bartender was friendly, quick, and clearly a professional. Apparently they do game nights as well, which sounds awesome but haven't been for that, yet. Will definitely be back! ”