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“

“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!“

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

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

“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.“

“We got there at 9:50. Ordered drinks and asked for menus. We then ordered our food. They came back a few minutes after we ordered and told us the kitchen was closed and then charged us for a lemonade.

That said, I came back again and it was some of the best bar food I’ve had. Also, the staff was really nice.“

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

“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!“

“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!“

“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.“

“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!“

“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.“

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

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

“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.“

“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!“

“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!“

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

“Place is great. Heads up tho if u have kids. 7pm is 21 and up on weekends. I thought it was 8pm. Doesn’t say on website so that was a bummer at 6:30pm. Now off to find someway to take the frowns off the kids faces after planning for this.“

“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.“

“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!“

“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!!“

“Incredible spot. Great staff!!“

“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.“

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

“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“

““Amazing bartender class! I learned how to make classic cocktails, pour correctly, fix mistakes, and even some flair basics. The instructor was friendly and made the class engaging. It was hands-on, fun, and informative. I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who wants to learn bartending or just make better drinks at home!”“

“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.“

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

“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 🎤.“

“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.“

“The food and drinks are top notch. I went to hear the classic Hip Hop DJ, because its so hard to find a place that plays the hiphop classics. Unfortunatly, I couldn't hardly hear the DJ, as there was a large party there, so they couldn't turn it up. Was disappointing.“

“I've been here twice. Once for an event, and the second just for fun. Both times I've danced my butt off and met the most amazing, good energy, fun people. Dj had all the vibes (all 3 I saw) and I danced so hard my legs were sore!! This is my spot in dt Raleigh.“

“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.“

“Fun times in Wake Forest! Great live music, awesome bar staff, and late nights have finally arrived in downtown.“

“What's Understood doesn't have to be explained...If you exemplify Masculinity then this is your spot! If you love to grow mentally then this is your spot! Mike & The Cigar Aficionado's behind the bar are Awesome & really good people.“

“Excellent service and food! Missed the picture of the she crab soup because it was gone before taking pics. Delicious!!! Owner came to tables and introduced himself personally! If you come to Rodanthe don’t miss a trip here!!!“

“Great Green Bay packer bar!“

“Fabulous food, cocktails and atmosphere!“

“My wife and I rolled into here after lunch time on Sunday. It was not busy. They have lots of televisions and are happy to put your game on. The staff are super friendly. Drink pours are generous. I had my usual Old Fashioned. Delicious. And they had food truck when we were there with fantastic buffalo chicken wings. Be nice to Izzy at the bar, she’ll change the channel for you and make terrific drinks. 🥃“

“delicious😋 I recommend 10 out of 10!“

“Honestly fantastic.

Poutine: brown sauce is delicious, fries are beautiful and dainty and crispy. Cheese curds are slightly lacking in squeak, but the whole thing is broiled so at least they’re melty.

Cilantro chicken: alarmingly green, just as tasty. Well-cooked breast, cilantro sauce tastes great. Avocado salad is actually freshly-made guacamole with a heavy dose of jalapeño.

Plenty of large tables with benches to comfortably seat up to 9 people.“

“The bartenders and staff here are great! Super welcoming, and they actually want to be there. The beers are reasonably priced, especially for downtown. I love the outdoor area they have, too. No food, but it seems like you can bring some in.“

“This is my first time at this Aloft in Raleigh. It was okay ... until I stopped at the bar to grab dinner. I decided to grab a drink, because....why not!? I'm celebrating!
Tonya was AMAZING!!!! Immediately, she greeted me, helped me pick out food, and worked thru what I wanted for a drink. I told her I wanted to try a new tequila. I ended up with the Dr. Stoner's, hierba loca. I have NEVER had tequila that smelled AND tasted like weed🤣. For those of you worried, there's NO cbd or thc! (I googled it🤣)
Tonya made the BEST MARGARITA I've everrrrrr had!! It's not too sweet, refreshing, crisp!! If you're in this area for ANY reason, you literally NEED to stop by to see her , specifically 🤣.

Thank you sooooo much, Tonya, for making this stay here special and memorable! You're super friendly, fun, and a true artist!!! She's the Van Gogh of drinks🤣🤣“

“Very nice place. I've been a few times now. Great tables and nice atmosphere.“