The Starling

I was so excited to try this bar, but I was disappointed when we got there an hour and a half early on a Saturday night only to find out they were beginning to do last call and we’re closing at 10 PM (the closing hours were posted as 11 PM on Google and Google maps). I was also disappointed to find out that the cocktail bar was rather limited in drinks that they could make. Bar staples like cranberry were missing as well as popular liquor choices. It’s perfectly alright if a bar wants to close earlier, but you need to update it online or let people know immediately when they enter that you’re closing earlier than usual or as posted. However, closing at 10 PM on a Saturday night is it’s pretty unheard of. Service quality was low, compared to other cocktail bars in the area, and it was clear that the bartenders were trying to get people to leave as soon as possible, and did not want to be operating the bar any longer. I can just imagine how frustrating it might be if people were to show up at 10:15 or 10:30 only to show up to a closed bar. As far as drink quality, interesting and creative ingredient choices, but the execution was hit or miss. The highlight was the fire pit upstairs we had to start ourselves.

Without a doubt our favorite upscale cocktail bar in Wilmington. The Starling is a masterpiece between the atmosphere, concept, cocktails, and bartenders. Never been? Let me paint a picture for you: imagine a shipping container that once inside transports you to a land of luxury, whiskey, and wine. Not sure what else you could ask for. The owners, Matt & Abbye, are the finest folks who support their community and take care of everyone like family. All of the bartenders (Kaley, Bex, Echo, Justin, and Carly) are literally some of the most talented in Wilmington, slinging insane amounts of cocktails for lines of people out of a tiny container. It’s insane what they do, but it makes me crave the delicious concoctions they create. They’re also always the nicest and most accommodating bartenders, making us feel right at home every time we visit! I can’t recommend The Starling enough to anyone visiting The Cargo District.

Unique outdoor atmosphere and excellent bourbon selection! Picnic table set up, we invited a family to sit with us, cornhole boards set up - if we had more people with us, we would have stayed all night and played! Can’t wait to go back!

Absolutely beautiful location. Fantastic service, classy atmosphere, friendly & knowledgeable staff. The best bourbon and craft cocktails in town. Perfect spot for business or pleasure. Extremely rare whisky and vintage bourbons that cannot be found anywhere else.

Great addition to the cargo district. This bar is a high end bar with bourbon and wine. We tried out their new cocktail list and was very impressed. Price for an average cocktail is around $15 and worth it!! The outdoor seating is very relaxing, especially in the evening. They have a cargo upstairs you can cool off in as well. We are looking forward to coming back again soon to try new drinks.