Hey there, fellow sippers. You’re here because you’ve heard Raleigh’s bar scene is… well, *legit*. And you’re right. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s address the elephant in the room: Why is this article titled “Raleigh’s Best Bars” and not “Where to Avoid Hangovers”? Simple. Because we all know the real goal of bar-hopping is to survive the next day with your dignity intact and a killer story to tell. Let’s get to it.
First rule of Raleigh bar-hopping: Don’t trust a place named “The Pub.” It’s like going to a coffee shop called “Café.” Too on-brand, not enough flair. But fear not—we’ve done the legwork (and the hangovers) to curate a list that balances vibe, quality, and the chance of accidentally meeting a local celebrity who looks *exactly* like your ex.
The Craft Cocktail Contenders: Where Mixologists Play God
If you want a drink that tastes like it costs $15 and smells like it’s been aged for centuries in a cave, Raleigh’s craft cocktail bars are your playground. These spots don’t just serve drinks—they serve experiences. Like, “I once got a cocktail that looked like a science experiment and I still can’t explain it.”
- Barrel 33 – 504 S Wilmington St, Raleigh, NC 27601. Think: bourbon geeks in a library setting, served with a side of “why yes, I do know the difference between a rye and a scotch.”
- Church & State – 431 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27603. A speakeasy vibe where the bartender might ask, “What’s your poison?” and actually mean it.
Pro Tip: Order the “Nc Thunder” cocktail at Barrel 33. It’s a local favorite that involves a dash of hot sauce and a side of “why am I drinking this?” But trust us.
Where the Beer Lovers Hang: Because Craft Beers Are Just Wine’s Cooler Cousin
Raleigh’s beer scene is like a college party—always buzzing, always experimental, and occasionally someone brings a keg of something you can’t pronounce. Here’s where to go if you’re more about the hops than the hooch:
- Wicked Weed Brewing – 403 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601. Known for its “Palace” series, which includes a beer that tastes like a fruit bomb exploded in your mouth. Bonus: The taproom has a wall of local art that’s better than your roommate’s Spotify Wrapped.
- Urban Airshare – 211 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601. A cozy spot where the craft beer list is longer than your Netflix queue. Their “Lambic with Cherries” is basically liquid nostalgia.
Did someone say make your own beer? If you’re feeling experimental, check out our guide to homebrewing. Or, if you need to impress a date, order a custom beer and pretend you know what you’re doing.
Speakeasies and Hidden Gems: Because Normal People Are Boring
Raleigh has a few bars that play hide-and-seek with their entrances. You know the ones—like the bar behind the bookshelf in your grandma’s house, but with better lighting and a 20% markup on everything. Here’s where to go if you want to feel like a secret agent who forgot the password:
- Speakeasy – 501 W Martin St, Raleigh, NC 27603. Hidden behind a vintage record store. The catch? You have to listen to a 3-minute jazz playlist before they’ll let you in. Pro tip: Wear noise-canceling headphones. Or don’t. We don’t judge.
- The Cellar – 1234 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27601. Located beneath a bookstore. The only way to find it is to ask for the “book club room.” Spoiler: There are no books in the room.
Quick Fire Facts: The Cellar’s signature drink is the “Mystery Margarita,” which changes weekly. Last week it was mango. This week it’s “artisanal lime with a splash of regret.”
Bars with a Side of Culture: Because You’re Not Just Here for the Alcohol
Raleigh’s bar scene isn’t just about the drinks—it’s about the experience. These spots double as art galleries, live music venues, and places where you’ll accidentally learn something new (and then immediately forget it the next day).
- Dirt & Co. – 512 W Hargett St, Raleigh, NC 27601. A rooftop bar where the view is better than your dating profile photo. Their “Sunset Mule” is so good, it might make you question your life choices.
- Blue Note Underground – 331 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601. A jazz bar where the bass player might be your ex’s ex’s cousin. The drinks here are strong, the vibe is stronger, and the Wi-Fi is… well, let’s just say it’s not a place you come for a Zoom call.
Need to grow your bar business? Check out Strategies Beer for tips on how to turn your bar into the next “it” spot. Or, if you’re a purist, just stick to this list and avoid the pitfalls of bad branding.
Bars for the People Who Hate Bars: Yes, You Exist
If you’re the type who wants to drink without the pretentiousness, Raleigh has you covered. These bars are chill, unpretentious, and perfect for people who just want to order a beer and not feel like they’re paying for a masterclass in hops.
- Craftworks – 3111 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27601. A beer garden where you can bring your dog and your judgmental attitude. Their “IPA with a Side of Guilt” is a local legend.
- Barrel House Taproom – 1515 Hillsborough St, Raleigh, NC 27601. A spot where the staff doesn’t care if you know the difference between a double IPA and a triple IPA. They just want you to leave a good tip.
Quick Side Note: If you’re in the market for a custom beer to serve at your next party, we’ve got you covered. Or, if you’re feeling entrepreneurial, try making your own—because nothing says “I’m a fun person” like a homebrew kit and a 50% failure rate.
Bars That Sell Beer Online: Because Delivery Is the Future
Raleigh’s beer scene isn’t just about the bars—it’s about the people who make the beer. And if you want to take a piece of that magic home, check out these breweries that sell their goods online (or at least, they try to).
- Wicked Weed Brewing – 403 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601. They sell their beer online via Dropt.beer, which is basically the Amazon of beer delivery. Just don’t order the “Palace” series during a pandemic. You’ll regret it.
- Urban Airshare – 211 S Blount St, Raleigh, NC 27601. Their online store is a digital version of their taproom. The only difference is you don’t get the free samples.
Pro Tip: If you’re ordering beer online via Dropt.beer, make sure to read the reviews. One customer reported their beer arrived with a note that read, “Enjoy this beer. It’s been through a lot.”
FAQs: Because You’re Probably Googling This Right Now
Q: What’s the best bar in Raleigh for a first date?
A: Dirt & Co. It’s picturesque, chill, and if things go wrong, you can blame the wind.
Q: Where can I find the weirdest drink in Raleigh?
A: The Cellar. Their “Mystery Margarita” is a work of art. Last week it was mango. This week it’s “artisanal lime with a splash of regret.”
Q: Can I drink at a Raleigh bar without breaking the bank?
A: Yes. Craftworks is your friend. Their cheapest beer is $5, and the staff doesn’t care if you’re dressed like you’re going to bed.
Q: Is it weird to go to a bar alone in Raleigh?
A: Not if you’re a local. If you’re from out of town, just remember: Raleigh people are friendly. They might even offer to buy you a drink. Just say “no thanks” and smile. You’re a mystery.
Final Thoughts: Because You Deserve a Happy Ending
Raleigh’s bar scene is a wild ride. Whether you’re a connoisseur of craft cocktails or a beer snob with a PhD in IPAs, there’s something here for you. Just remember to pace yourself, leave a tip, and maybe take a selfie with the bartender. You’ll thank us later.
Still hungry for more? Check out our Contact page if you want to partner with a brewery, or hit us up on Strategies.beer for more beer-related shenanigans. And if you’re ever in Raleigh and need a drink, remember: the best bars are the ones where you end up with a story that’s better than your LinkedIn headline.
