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!“

“I Have been walking by this place for years and I finally stop in on Thursday night. When I tell you I had blast, the bartender Randi(woman by the way) showed me and everyone else so much love. Her customer service was top tier, DJ 🔥🔥🔥and drink specials we’re suburb. I highly recommend this a dope start of your weekend or just a cool spot for the weekday.“

“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!!“

“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!“

“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!“

“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.“

“It was our first time in Raleigh and this was our first stop and we loved it! Chaz was our server and he recommended all the beer we had and he has great knowledge of delicious beer depending on what types you like. Also the atmosphere and design of the place looked so cool!

Definitely recommend checking this place out when you can.“

“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!“

“My husband and I stopped in after a dinner out as this spot has been one of our “oh yeah! We haven’t been there in a minute” places and with our most recent visit we were reminded just how wonderful Foundation truly is.

I adore walking down the steps into the cozy
Lounge and I don’t think there has been a time that I’ve walked in that I wasn’t greeted at the door by the bartenders working inviting us to find a spot we’d like.

The staff have always been great at noticing the kind of experience you’d prefer- be it a “chat ‘em up” kinda evening or a lighter touch.

We each tried something off the rotating menu after getting a super customized recommendation - both absolutely stellar! And after chatting further we were also invited to try something a little more curious from off menu (a NY take on “green chartreuse liquor”) mixed into a pina colada that knocked our socks off.

Truly a spot worth checking out both on a weeknight for a more personal feel and during the weekend when the place gets packed. Kyle and the team will take you on an adventure your taste buds won’t forget.“

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

“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“

“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!“

“Delicious food. I can highly recommend.“

“This was an incredible bar to go to! I went to celebrate my 21st birthday and it was absolutely incredible. We decided to go because it was the only bar within the area that had no reviews on people being roofied and during the entire time there were workers walking around and checking everything out making sure it was safe. Our bartender, Vitia, was absolutely incredible. She helped suggest things to drink and made incredible drinks. Please everyone go to this bar and show her some love. She even stayed after her shift and made sure to check on my party personally which made everything feel so special! They do allow dogs and they have tons of arcade games which made the atmosphere of a bar feel a lot more inviting! Thank you to a super kind customer for buying my first shot! I don’t know your name but your dog’s name was Charlie and I thank you so much!“

“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.“

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

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

“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!“

“Incredible spot. Great staff!!“

“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!“

“We were trying to find a nice vibe spot with drinks and hookah while we were visiting Raleigh and District was that spot for sure. It was very cute, laid back and such good vibes. The two ladies that were tending to us on 8/30 from 8:10 until we left were amazing. And the drinks were so good. The first drink I had was the Strawberry Mule, and the second was actually a Green Tea shot. We couldn’t even take it as a shot because it was a lot! Lol. We had such a great time at District. If you are ever in the Raleigh or surrounding areas, go check this place out.“

“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.“

“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!“

“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“

“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.“

“An absolute gem in Raleigh! Boatman Distillery completely blew us away with their unmatched customer service, local spirits, incredible Mediterranean menu and unique atmosphere.

The highlight of our night was definitely the service! Our server, Sophia, was fantastic! From the moment we walked in she was greeting us with genuine warmth. She had an in-depth knowledge of their spirits and menu. As our first time visiting she made us feel right at home. She knows the cocktails and food and will recommend exactly what you are in the mood for (go on a limb and order what is recommended...you won't be disappointed :))

The manager, Darwin was one of a kind; showcasing a level of customer-oriented detail that you rarely see these days...with the top notch service and team it is clear that it all starts at the top. The manager here is the absolute gold standard of hospitality; stepping in to help the staff during a busy rush, and checking in on tables to ensure every single detail was perfect. Darwin provided impeccable recommendations. I highly recommend trying the made-in-house, specialty Navy Gin and homemade tonic (a total game-changer). He clearly has a deep knowledge of their crafted spirits, his attention to detail and customer care did not go unnoticed. The team at Boatman truly make you feel like a VIP as a customer. Beyond food and drinks, the live jazz music created the perfect touch to the overall vibe. The architectural masterpiece and curved entryways provides an aesthetic that makes you forget you're in Raleigh and not in the Mediterranean .

Lastly, had the pleasure of meeting one of the owners tonight, who confirmed the team is just as amazing as the person in charge. You can tell they care deeply about the guest experience, it's obvious they have created a fantastic culture for their team. The staff radiates positive energy, which only happens under great leadership. All around great vibes. We will absolutely be back.“

“Great gluten free options.“

“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“

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

“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!“

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

“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.“

“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 🎤.“

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

“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!!“

“Great Green Bay packer bar!“

“It's lit. Went to the wonderland event on a thurs they had fire local djs and vendors with sick jewelry and rave stuff. Nice mix of bass music from riddin and trap to more upbeat

Went there another time too on a Friday and it was sick, house music that time“

“This bar feels like a velvet-lined hideout that accidentally got trapped in a basement—part neighborhood watering hole, part moody social club, part eccentric aunt’s living room.

The fire-engine-red brick walls bring the drama, while the exposed beams and dangling wires proudly announce, “Yes, we have electricity. No, we’re not showing off.” Vintage rugs sprawl across the concrete floor like they’ve been there long enough to know all the regulars. The leather couches and rolling chairs give it a wonderfully mismatched charm—like a Victorian parlor got into an argument with a dive bar and neither one won.

Dark, cozy, slightly mysterious, and just shabby enough to be cool. This is the kind of place where you walk in for “one drink” and somehow end up three hours later debating philosophy with a stranger named Dave. Cheers!“