Raising the Bar  

The RM team’s fave spots to vibe and imbibe around Raleigh—bar none. 

There’s no question about it: The City of Oaks boasts some pretty sensational bars to grab a boozy (or spirit-free!) bev—whether that’s a craft brewski or a carefully concocted cocktail. From OG watering holes to rising rookie oases, there’s a smattering of selections for whatever you’re craving. But we all play favorites. Here, the RM team and contribs’ go-to bars in Raleigh to grab a drink. 

Killjoy
—Gina Stephens, Publisher, @ginasdawgs

The Longleaf Lounge
—Liz Comella, Creative Director, @liz.reed.design

Watts & Ward
—Alex Crotti, Assistant Designer

Willco
—Melissa Howsam, Editor-in-Chief, @mahowsam

Willco
—Lauren Kruchten, Associate Editor, @laurenn_nicol

The Avenue
—Anna Beth Adcock, Editorial Assistant, @_annabethadcock

Watts & Ward
—Debby Serena, Account Executive

J. Betski’s
—Sophia Palles, Account Executive

Person Street Bar
—Susannah Richardson, Contributing Writer

The Haymaker
—Kelsie Barton, Contributing Writer

Brewery Bhavana
—Ellie Davis, Contributing Writer

Bittersweet
—Rabekah Henderson, Contributing Writer

The Parlor at Heights House Hotel
—Matt Lardie, Contributing Writer

Dram & Draught
—Emily O’Brien, Contributing Writer

Aunty Betty’s
—Heidi Reid, Contributing Writer

The Cardinal
—Sean Junqueira, Contributing Photographer

Willco
—Forrest Mason, Contributing Photographer

Willco
—Susan Holt Photography, Contributing Photographer