Sipping the Seasons

A local mixologist on cocktail craftsmanship and evolving creativity 

By Jen Reed

A year ago, I stumbled upon Three10 Restaurant in Wilmington, and it didn’t take long for it to become one of my favorite spots. Nestled in a beautifully restored bungalow, the restaurant’s warm ambiance and commitment to showcasing locally sourced ingredients immediately won me over. While the food is consistently outstanding, it’s the beverage program that truly sets Three10 apart.

Curator Curran Brierley has elevated cocktail craftsmanship to an art form, creating drinks that seamlessly complement each season’s menu. Her use of botanicals, infused oils, and unexpected ingredients results in cocktails that are as inventive as they are delicious. Every three months, as the restaurant’s culinary offerings shift to reflect the flavors of the season, so too does the drink list—an ever-changing display of Brierley’s creative genius.

My current obsession is the Half Shell Martini. Inspired by the briny elegance of oysters, this cocktail incorporates a mignonette typically served alongside oysters on the half shell. It’s a perfect balance of bright acidity and savory depth, making it an ideal pre-dinner indulgence. Before that, I found myself consistently drawn to the Elder Millennial, a gin-based cocktail that was both floral and refreshingly crisp thanks to the Elderflower liqueur and pear oleo saccharum. And if bourbon, scotch, or tequila are more your thing, Brierley has you covered there, too.  Each drink tells a story, highlighting unique flavor profiles that evolve with the changing seasons.

Three10’s owners Matt Walker and Jen Concklin are deeply committed to featuring locally sourced ingredients, and that dedication extends beyond the kitchen to the bar. As the executive chef, Matt works closely with his team to ensure a harmonious blend between the food and drink, creating a seamless dining experience. Fresh herbs, house-made syrups, and North Carolina-distilled spirits frequently make appearances in the beverage program. This local-first approach ensures that every cocktail not only highlights the best seasonal flavors but also supports the surrounding community of farmers, foragers, and distillers.

For those who prefer a more immersive experience, Three10 also hosts pairing dinners throughout the year. These thoughtfully curated events feature multi-course meals, each dish complemented by a unique cocktail crafted specifically for the occasion. Local spirits take center stage in these pairings, allowing guests to experience the depth and complexity of regional liquors in unexpected ways. Wine pairings are also offered on occasion, providing an alternative for those who appreciate a well-matched vintage with their meal.

What makes Three10’s beverage program so remarkable is the sense of discovery that comes with each visit. No two experiences are ever the same. Each season brings a new selection of cocktails, with ingredients that might surprise even the most seasoned connoisseur. Brierley’s approach is both scientific and artistic, blending flavors in ways that feel intuitive yet entirely novel. One sip might introduce a smoky mezcal infusion, while another could highlight the brightness of freshly picked citrus or the deep herbal complexity of foraged botanicals.

Beyond the cocktails themselves, there is a palpable energy to the bar at Three10. Whether you're sitting inside near the cozy wooden bar or enjoying a drink on the porch, the attention to detail and craftsmanship is evident. The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate, always ready to discuss the inspiration behind a cocktail or suggest a pairing that enhances the meal. This level of engagement makes each drink feel personal, an experience rather than just a beverage.

For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, Brierley applies the same thoughtful creativity to spirit-free drinks, ensuring that those who abstain from alcohol still have access to beautifully crafted and flavor-packed beverages. Herbal infusions, house-made shrubs, and complex layers of ingredients make these drinks just as compelling as their alcoholic counterparts.

As I reflect on my past year of dining and drinking at Three10, I realize that what keeps me coming back isn’t just the food or the cocktails—it’s the way everything comes together in a perfect balance of flavor, atmosphere, and creativity. Every visit is an opportunity to explore something new, whether it’s a bold cocktail, a delicately balanced martini, or a pairing that surprises in the best possible way. As the seasons change, so too does the menu, and I eagerly anticipate what’s next. Whatever it is, I know it will be something worth toasting to.