50 Best Bars in Raleigh

“Lovely atmosphere. The bartender was amazing and created very lovely little drinks for us. Thank you for the experience. we ❤️ steph“

“I celebrated my birthday at Taverna Agora, and it was an absolutely amazing experience from beginning to end! The customer service was exceptional. The staff was incredibly friendly, attentive, and genuinely invested in making sure everything went smoothly. They even called several times before my reservation to confirm my guest count and seating preference, which showed how much they value preparation and customer satisfaction.

We originally requested a table on their beautiful rooftop, but after one of my guests started getting bitten by mosquitoes, we asked if we could move indoors. The staff didn’t hesitate—they quickly accommodated our request without making us feel like it was an inconvenience.

One of my favorite touches of the evening was that they kept my favorite drink coming all night without me ever having to ask twice. It made me feel truly celebrated and taken care of.

The food, atmosphere, and hospitality made my birthday one to remember. If you’re looking for a place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a great meal with outstanding service, I can’t recommend Taverna Agora enough. Thank you to the entire team for helping make my birthday so special—I can’t wait to come back!“

“Great vibe! Mixologist Jefferson skillfully guided our craft cocktail selections. Impressive knowledge, real ingredients. At his recommendation we grabbed a couple of slices (authentic NY pizza) from Oakwood Pizza Box next door, that did not disappoint!“

“the best place in Raleigh and the bartender knows how to make drink“

“One of my favorite places in town. Ben’s stalwart Gussie’s manages to tick so many seemingly disconnected boxes - great bar, with inventive cocktails. But a comfort food local place. Or maybe a beer geek temple - for those who know good breweries that aren’t trendy but were solid 20 years ago and still frigging are. Someone knows. Yeah Budweiser maybe could be upscaled a little but someone knows Lawson’s and 3 Floyd’s and even tonight’s surprise of Festina Peche from Dogfish Head that’s been awesome for what, 25 years? They regularly find things that I’ve not seen on tap in ages. The food - non beef eaters might need a minute but there’s choices there but the smash burgers are a work of art. Cocktails are inventive and excellent and the staff is awesome. A quibble - it’s a loud room so maybe the music could be a smidge lower so people don’t shout over it and it just gets very loud. But that’s a quibble. It’s comfy, it’s familiar, it’s good. Come here. Except when I want to come here because I want a seat at the bar, ok?“

“This place is amazing. It’s like a speakeasy with a cool, loung-y area inside, winding hallways, and a torch-and-fire pit outside garden area with dim lit bars and chill cocktails. Great for friends, couples or a date. Highly recommend.“

“Your food truck is parked in a handicap parking space!“

“Great vibe, friendly staff, nice game selection! Had an awesome time!!“

“Had an awesome time at Pearl & Peril! The atmosphere is unlike anywhere else in Raleigh, with a fun pirate-themed vibe, great music, and excellent cocktails. What really made the experience stand out was Lexi behind the bar. She was friendly, attentive, and made fantastic drink recommendations all night. Even when it got busy, she kept a great attitude and made sure everyone was taken care of. If you’re looking for a great night out in Glenwood South, ask for Lexi—you won’t be disappointed. I’ll definitely be back!“

“One of the best live music venues in the Triangle. Consistently good bookings. And a record store above it!“

“Have been wanting to try this little spot! Cool spot inside & out back patio area. Drinks were good! Great customer service too! Definitely will be back soon!“

“Super cute spot inside & patio area. Food & drinks were so good! The sandwiches were so flavorful, unique, & delicious! Great customer service too! Definitely will be back soon!“

“What an all around amazing night at Second Empire! Our family gathered there to celebrate our son's wedding. The personal service the bride and groom received was way beyond expectations. Everyone made them feel so special! From start to finish, the evening was exceptional. The food was so yummy and there were even options for those in our group, myself included, who were vegan/vegetarian. And it wasn't just a salad. Just ask the server! Ours was well versed in what the chef could prepare for us. The presentation of the food to our party of 13 was also super cool...they brought out all of the entrees at once! Also there is an elevator to help those with mobility issues. Thanks to everyone for helping to make this special day even more special!“

“Top notch brewery with a death theme.“

“Great neighborhood gathering place. Harding working staff that makes all feel welcome. A lot of beer to try and good recommendations from the staff and patrons.“

“Atmosphere: 7/10
Located on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh, Foundation is a basement bar built into the foundation of an old building—exposed brick and stone with wooden beams overhead. The vibe is industrial, casual, and alternative/hipster, with music on the emo-rock side at a good volume. It's the oldest cocktail bar in the city and one of the few open late night in Raleigh. The backbar is nice, with some bar seats and tables. Crowd skews middle-aged to older.

Drinks: 7/10
Recommendation: -
Decent menu of average quality, but a good selection—a whole page of signature drinks. Flavor and balance is decent, though without much depth. No coasters. Glassware is average, garnish very basic, and presentation very simple.

Service: 8/10
Water served on arrival. The team is friendly and attentive, with average professionalism. Prices are average. Reservations not needed.“

“Swanky, comfort, & chic. Love the mug’s & atmosphere. The muffins are amazeballs!“

“Unbelievably amazing! The customer service provided by this restaurant group was literally not even imaginable. We thought we had reservations at Brodeto only to find out the reservation was accidentally booked for another date (error on my part!) and the restaurant was closed for a private event. Zach met us at the door as we walked in to advise of this and then he asked if we would like to dine at one of the sister restaurants. He got us a table at Crawford & Son and called ahead to the management team to have us escorted to the speak easy bar in the basement (Sous Terre). Then as we were having a cocktail, Zach once again shows up to personally let us know our table was ready. We sat at the bar and enjoyed some of the best and most inventive food we have tried. The tomato salad, tuna crudo, and OMG the bucatini were all amazing! The trout and steak did not disappoint at all. And the blueberry upside down amazingness with corn ice cream was out of this world. I cannot say enough about all of the staff and especially Zach for truly making what could have been a huge disappointment into an unforgettable experience. 12 out of 10!!!!“

“Great bourbon selection including vintage whiskey. The craft cocktails are amazing! Beautiful and masculine decor!“

“Best cupcakes in Raleigh and who knows in the whole state of NC. Such an inviting atmosphere. The german Chocolate cupcakes best ever ! It was so delightful! The cupcakes were moist and tasted gourmet. I loved the topping, not too sweet or overpowering. Chef Erica is 5 stars and so kind My family and I enjoyed everything we had ! Definitely worth trying! Thanks“

“Local brewery with great beer and an awesome taproom. The House of Clay IPA is one of my favorite local IPAs — hoppy and balanced. The Hell Yes Ma'am is a perfect easy-drinking golden ale. The taproom has a laid-back vibe with board games and food truck options. Regular events keep things lively. The staff is friendly and passionate about their beer. A Raleigh staple that's earned its reputation through quality.“

“Transfer Food Hall is THE BEST FOOD SPOT in downtown if you want a laid back location with a variety of options. I had my 30th birthday there and have gone on many date nights. We were so lucky to be welcomed to host a cookie booth as well. Everyone was so kind and helpful. We will be lifelong patrons and I let everyone know how great it is!“

“Great gluten free options.“

“Was recommended to photograph a boudoir session here by two girlfriends who had stayed. And I loved it so much I booked my husband & myself the honeymoon suite for a romantic night away! This place is just magical and exquisite. The atmosphere was amazing, the staff was so accommodating and kind, and the cocktails at the cocktail bar were just divine. 10/10 recommend and I cannot wait to come back!“

“Great beer and even better vibes. Super cool collection of regulars always down for a fun conversation and very friend bartenders. Solid selection of drinks both on tap and in the fridge. I’ll definitely be making this a regular Raleigh stop in the future!“

“Delicious food. I can highly recommend.“

“Jason was wonderful. The beer was great, and the company was even better😝“

“Boxcar Bar + Arcade stands as the definitive crown jewel of Raleigh’s late-night entertainment landscape, masterfully engineered to bridge the gap between high-energy social lounge and pure retro-gaming nirvana. What elevates this space into an absolute powerhouse of downtown nightlife isn’t just the massive footprint, but the flawless, high-octane orchestration of its dual concept.

The environment is a visual and auditory sensory overload in the best way possible. It meticulously curates an elite collection of arcade history, boasting dozens of beautifully maintained classic cabinet games, rhythm titles, standard pinball matrices, and modern skee-ball alleys. Structurally, the spatial planning is brilliant—seamlessly shifting from the clinking tokens and flashing CRT monitors of the indoor gaming floor to a sweeping, beautifully designed open-air patio perfect for catching your breath. The hospitality program operates at a remarkably high standard; the bar execution is fast and precise, serving up a heavy-hitting rotation of local North Carolina craft beers on tap alongside inventive, gaming-themed signature cocktails. Capped off by a piping hot, scratch-made wood-fired pizza kitchen that handles late-night cravings with technical perfection, Boxcar delivers a flawless, incredibly nostalgic nightlife experience that captures the true, vibrant heartbeat of Raleigh's social scene.“

“I stopped by to grab lunch. The food was delicious. The people were friendly and helpful. I want more corn!!!“

“Amazing staff, excellent collection of beer and wine, and great event nights.“

“Best Bar I’m downtown. Highly recommend!!!!!!“

“Incredible food: can't decide if the pierogis and sides are the best or the desserts. Such a relaxing and fun atmosphere: you are able to mingle with friends while enjoying your meal at your own pace. Highly recommend for the menu selections (which are creative and delicious - try the smoked trout, mushroom and cheese pierogis, cheese spaetzle, peanut butter and banana pudding...!!) and atmosphere.“

“Incredible spot. Great staff!!“

“Great food, great vibe. We sat inside on the 2nd floor. Bartender was awesome! Foods and drinks we delish. Definitely going to be a new spot for us!“

“Fun atmosphere with a wide range of patrons. Great spot for people watching and a wide variety of drinks. Recommend this spot for anyone looking for a quick drink. Will come here again!“

“This is one of the coziest scenes I have experienced here in North Carolina. I've lived here for aomost 5 years! The people and the vibe are extremely relaxed. Such a chill place with great beer( I am not a beer drinker bit I really like theirs!!!) They bring in great vendors for a variety of food on Thursdays and the service from the bartender, Gabz is super fun behind the bar. PS... bring your dog and kids! Totally family friendly! Great crowd!!“

“As a connoisseur of all things Hennessy, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and try wine. From the atmosphere, to the ambiance, to the great customer service, I enjoyed & experienced an outstanding time at The District. I specifically wanted to highlight Diana. I came in by myself but after a few glasses of wine, wonderful conversation and phenomenal service, I felt as though I had a friend who was aiming to make my experience that much better. I’d high recommend her and The District for a night out on the town!“

“Football at its best- and that is coming from an English man. Although the owner kev is a gooner fan but hey ho lol. Check it out.“

“Absolutely phenomenal little space
Pool table closed covered patio
Beautiful plants i here they're getting a dart board too? .
The bartenders are hilarious and engaging
From pbr to shots to nice cocktails this place is a gem“

“Live music 🎶, Great 🍺 🍹and the best Wings in Raleigh, hands down!!! You won’t be disappointed at this place! Come in during the week for some music 🎵 bingo or karaoke 🎤.“

“great place for a cocktail and an awesome craft beer“

“Awesome place! Great staff! Great food! Amazing beer!“

“Great place for a daytime drink regardless of season but especially nice for a snow day. The hot cider drink is quite lovely on a cold snowy evening.“

“This place definitely lives up to the hype. The atmosphere is everything — great music, beautiful crowd, and the energy stays high all night. The drinks are strong and well-made, and the bartenders are quick even when the bar is packed.
What really stood out was the vibe. Everyone seemed to be having a good time, dancing, laughing, and just enjoying the night. It’s the perfect spot whether you’re out with friends, celebrating something, or just want to let loose after a long week.
Josh the store manager is amazing, as a gay black man I feel so welcomed and comfortable in this space.
If you’re looking for a bar/lounge with good music, good drinks, and a fun crowd, this spot is definitely worth checking out. I’ll definitely be back.“

“I am at Glenwood often and love the main dining area and the atmosphere. The food is great especially the salmon.“

“I’ve been there many times due to their awesome food and drinks . They make you feel like family and are very professional and great customer service . I highly recommend this restaurant and trust me it won’t disappoint.“

“Food here was amazing!! Service was really fast, and my avocado dosa was super good. My server Edwin was really nice and encouraged us to try new things, would definitely go back again!“

“Wow! Great cocktails with tasty delicious Mediterranean foods, served by a friendly staff in impressive decor. Don’t mind the youngins and their inappropriate one star reviews not related to the service or food or drinks. The cocktail list is expansive and has some twists. It’s not a speakeasy and it’s not trying to get on the cover of Punch - but you will find unique items here. Foods great - the wings, beef tallow fries, fried chickpeas, hummus, and lamb burger are all recommended. Service at the bar was great. We were welcomed from the door to the bar. Highly recommended!“

“I’ve been there many times due to their awesome food and drinks . They make you feel like family and are very professional and great customer service . I highly recommend this restaurant and trust me it won’t disappoint.“

“One of the best craft beer spots in Raleigh. Over 700 bottles/cans to choose from (mix your own six-pack is awesome), 8+ constantly rotating taps with great local NC brews, and a chill coffee-shop-like atmosphere with free WiFi, comfy seating, and local art. Staff knows their stuff and are always welcoming. Had a couple pints and some apps—prices are fair for the quality. Highly recommend for beer lovers looking for a relaxed vibe.“