Missy Lane’s Assembly Room

Where Culture Meets Cocktails: Welcome to Missy Lane’s Assembly Room

In the heart of downtown Durham, there’s a place that buzzes with the vibrant energy of a classic jazz club, yet feels as warm and welcoming as a gathering at your favorite auntie’s house. This is Missy Lane’s Assembly Room, a beautiful, necessary addition to the Southern cultural landscape, and the definitive home for Black American Music in the Triangle.

We are more than a music venue; we are a hub of culture, community, and impeccable taste—a dream realized by Dr. Cicely Mitchell, a co-owner, and visionary whose roots run deep in the local arts scene.

A Vision Born from the Art of Cool

The story of Missy Lane’s Assembly Room is a continuation of a powerful mission. Owner Dr. Cicely Mitchell, a long-time advocate for jazz and improvised music, spent over a decade building community and curating musical excellence through the acclaimed Art of Cool Project and Festival.

Missy Lane’s is the physical manifestation of that passion: a permanent, intentional space where the history, diversity, and innovation of Black American Music can thrive. The name itself is a personal nod to Dr. Mitchell’s Southern roots and her middle name—a warm, nostalgic invitation that echoes the feeling of the space.

Opened in early 2024, Missy Lane’s is proudly Black-owned and Black-female-majority-owned, embodying a sense of responsibility and trail-blazing leadership in the live entertainment industry.

The Assembly Room Experience: A Vibe You Can Feel

Step inside, and you’ll immediately feel the difference. The venue is intentionally designed to be both intimate and grand, inviting guests to settle in and immerse themselves in the music.

• The Atmosphere: Imagine a modern speakeasy that honors its heritage. The front lounge features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Main Street, a cozy full bar, and a grand piano, perfect for conversation and craft cocktails. The adjacent performance space, which accommodates up to 240 guests, ensures that every seat offers an intimate connection to the stage.
• A Sanctuary for Sound: Our calendar is dedicated to showcasing the full spectrum of Black American Music—from classic and contemporary Jazz to Neo-Soul, R&B, Blues, and Gospel. We host national touring acts alongside incredible local talent, ensuring you discover new favorites every time you visit.
• More Than Music: We are committed to being a community hub, hosting thought-provoking conversations, workshops, and masterclasses that connect our world-class artists directly with the Triangle community.

Culinary & Cocktail Excellence

A true assembly room is not complete without food and drink to feed the soul. Missy Lane’s offers a refined experience throughout the day and evening:

Start Your Day (Mon–Fri)

Grab a smooth pour from our Coffee & Breakfast offerings to start your week with a little soul.

Weekend Rituals: The Brunch Society (Sat & Sun)

Our weekend brunch is an elite ritual of rhythm, refinement, and Southern flavor. Join us for The Brunch Society featuring:

• Live Jazz curated by local legends.
• A rotating brunch menu rooted in Southern classics, with highlights like Hot Honey Wings, Brisket Mac & Cheese, and rich Cheese Grit Bowls.
• Signature cocktails like our Brunch Bottle Board (bubbly + juice flight) to elevate your midday celebration.

Evening Indulgence & Libations

In the evening, our bar and kitchen come alive:

• The Menu: Enjoy delicious small plates, dinner features, and late-night bites that showcase fresh, Southern flavors. A must-try is the Kiss the Cook Cornbread & Butter Board—golden, honey-kissed cornbread served with an indulgent butter trio.
• The Drinks: Our beverage program features meticulously crafted signature cocktails, premium spirits, and a grown, gorgeous atmosphere made for lingering.

Reserve Your Vibe

Missy Lane’s Assembly Room is a vibrant, sophisticated space designed to bring people together over great music and delicious experiences. Whether you’re looking for an intimate show, a soulful brunch, or a sophisticated spot for a late-night cocktail, we have a lane for you.

Ready to find your favorite new sound?

Explore our full calendar of live performances and reserve your table for The Brunch Society today!

Categories

• Event Venue

Features

• Air conditioning
• Alcohol
• Appointments
• Recording Artist
• Therapeutic

Regions

• Durham, NC.

Location