Serial hospitality entrepreneur puts his best foot forward.
Born and raised in NC, Jonathan Seelbinder only expected to stay in our capital city for a couple of years when he moved here in 1999. But, 22 years later, he says, “here I am.”
Seelbinder cut his teeth in the hospitality business as a way to pay his way through NC State while studying industrial engineering. But, alas, he caught the hospitality bug and, in 2012, opened his first spot (The Architect Bar and Social House on East Hargett Street)—and “tried to never look back,” he says.
From there, Seelbinder bowed such popular hot spots as The Green Light speakeasy, Virgil’s Taqueria, sandwich shop Linus & Pepper’s (L&P) and Little City Brewing. This year, after COVID-19 shuttered L&P, he began working on a new venture, The Merchant, in the Virgil’s building on South Salisbury Street. His fave part? The savvy bar owner particularly enjoys designing and furnishing his properties. “As a guy who lived in a house with a bunch of other dudes and a hand-me-down couch when opening my first business,” he says, “I was quickly inspired by interior design, something that has grown into a passion.” In his free time, Seelbinder says he travels between Colorado and Raleigh whenever possible. And, in his ideal life, he’d fly airplanes and ski every day. Cheers to that.
Hometown: I was born in Spruce Pine, grew up in Wilmington, finished high school in Mebane, then moved to Colorado, then moved to Raleigh—and have been here since 1999.
Your neighborhood: Downtown Raleigh
What you love most about Raleigh: It’s a big town, little city. It’s always been easy to meet people. The food and beverage scene has become as good as any city, and it’s a great home base. You can fly almost anywhere and can get up and down the East Coast no problem.
Currently reading: Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey. It was a gift from my mom for Christmas.
Currently listening to: Podcasts with Grant Cardone, GaryVee and Tim Ferriss. They talk about real estate, entrepreneurship and life stories. They’re inspirational, informative and give me a good perspective on the ups and downs of the entrepreneurial world.
Style mantra: Timeless and classic—with modern accents. I’ve really been into wearing Air Jordan’s lately though. My preference would be to be comfortable, but it depends on the situation. It’s a fine line between stylish and comfortable. I like to toe the line.
Style influences: I don’t really follow a particular designer, but I believe in staying classic and evolving with the times without being too overly trendy.
Favorite clothing labels: Everything from Chuck Taylor and Air Jordan all the way up to Hermès and everything in between.
Local go-to shop: It was Art of Style—always a good eclectic blend of cool styles. It was local, and Kendra always tried to go out of her way to be involved in the process of purchasing clothes.
Last great lunch: Virgil’s tacos. I happen to think they’re the best tacos in the state… yum yum, delicious!
Go-to piece: Dark denim that fits well and is still comfortable
Favorite piece of jewelry: I always enjoy a classic, understated nice watch.
Travel dreaming: I was thinking about the south of France the other day—never been, would like to go. It just looks absolutely beautiful, and I’d love to have a few carefree weeks after the last year or two I’ve had with work.
How you stay fit: Stress… just kidding. I love to ride my mountain bike and snowboard. Diet is super-important; however, that’s always a lifestyle.
Favorite drink: Coffee, coffee, coffee and then coffee, in that order
Style secret: Everything doesn’t have to be expensive. I once managed a night club, and my favorite suit came from Target, and I threw it in the washing machine on a regular basis. But it’s always fun to have a couple of really nice pieces that you can accentuate with things that aren’t totally bougie.
Moment in your life that inspired your style: My father and my (maternal) grandfather—even when I grew up with very little and not a lot of money—they made sure we knew it was always important to look our best, tuck our shirts in, comb our hair and stand up straight.
Photo Credit: Joshua Steadman
Currently Wearing: Jacket: Calvin Klein; scarf: Versace; T-shirt: Buck Mason; pants: Penguin; shoes: Air Jordan; belt and buckle: Hermès; boxer briefs: Diesel; socks: Ralph Lauren
The best omakase spots in Raleigh for sushi aficionados
At Ajisai Japanese Fusion, sushi is a family affair. The Cameron Village eatery is owned and operated by husband-and-wife team Wen and Joy Zheng, former New Yorkers who, after successfully building two Ajisai outposts in the city, moved to Raleigh in 2014 in order to raise their family and open a new location. “We wanted to raise kids in a small city, and that’s why we chose Raleigh,” Joy explains. “And it’s been so good—I love the people down here. It’s so much nicer!”
In the years since Ajisai’s arrival on the Triangle scene, the restaurant has earned attention for its flavorful dishes like tuna hand rolls and shrimp tempura, but also for a special offering diners might not expect: a name-your-price omakase experience not listed on the menu. A Japanese phrase that translates to, “I’ll leave it up to you,” omakase involves a sushi chef deciding what to serve based on both which fish are in season and their personal preferences. For open-minded eaters who appreciate the value of a fresh bite of toro or yellowtail nigiri, the dinner, which typically goes for anywhere from $50 to $150 per person, is often worth the cost—and at Ajisai (where, for an average of $99, the chef will create an elaborate selection for you; or for your named price limit, you can have a meal prepared accordingly), it’s practically impossible to resist.
For my $50, I was presented with a bounty of food: first, several small plates, including yellowtail in a jalapeno salsa puree and gold-flaked tuna dumplings filled with wasabi salad; followed by a towering platter of sashimi; plus an equally strong serving of nigiri with one of the restaurant’s famed Amazing rolls. The sashimi, presented in one of Ajisai’s trademark ice sculpture-adorned bowls, had everything from thick cuts of salmon to buttery uni, while the sushi featured fresh fish like toro and king crab. A hot and heavenly slice of fried cheesecake topped off the meal—but, sadly, I only made it a few forkfuls in before calling it quits. But it was a fittingly unexpected conclusion to a meal that surprised with every bite. Of course, Ajisai isn’t the only Triangle restaurant offering omakase. Here are a few other spots worth checking out.
City Market Sushi
citymarketsushi.net What They Offer: Five options: two nigiri plates; two sashimi plates; and one plate with chirashi, a variety of sashimi over a bed of rice. How to Get It: All options are on the menu. The nigiri is $22 for eight pieces, or $34 for 12 pieces; the sashimi is $35 for 15 pieces, or $70 for 30 pieces; and the chirashi is $37 for 18 pieces. Worth Mentioning: “The fish we serve is extremely fresh because we get deliveries every day,” says the management team.
M Sushi (Durham)
m-restaurants.com/m-sushi What They Offer: Grand Omakase—a decadent meal including lobster tempura, squid ink pasta, wagyu, black truffle and more. How to Get It: It’s on the menu for $97 per person. Worth Mentioning: M Sushi comes from renowned sushi chef Mike Lee. To order from the omakase menu, everyone at your table must participate, and there’s a two-hour time limit on the meal.
O-Ku Sushi
okuraleigh.com What They Offer: A creative multicourse tasting that’s a mix of sushi and sashimi, per the menu. How to Get It: It’s listed on the menu for $100 per person. For $45 per person, you can also add a wine and sake pairing to enhance your meal. Worth Mentioning: If you like O-Ku, be sure to also check out its sister restaurants in Atlanta, Charleston, Charlotte and DC.
Sono Sushi
sonoraleigh.com What They Offer: Sixteen pieces of nigiri presented in a sushi tray. More options are typically available, but the selection is currently limited due to the pandemic. How to Get It: It’s listed on the menu for $55 per person. Worth Mentioning: Unless you specify something you can’t or won’t eat, the nigiri selection is totally the chef’s choice, according to the Sono team.
Waraji Japanese Restaurant
warajijapaneserestaurant.com What They Offer: A range of nigiri and sashimi, depending on what you prefer How to Get It: It’s not on the menu, so you have to request it and name your price limit. “It’s all up to the customer,” says Masatoshi Tsujimura, the head chef. Worth Mentioning: Back in 1984, Tsujimura opened one of the first sushi bars in North Carolina at Raleigh’s Kanki Japanese House of Steak and Sushi, before leaving a decade later to open Waraji.
How CORRAL Riding Academy is helping girls—and horses—reach their potential.
While most of us spent 2020 sheltering in place with the world on pause, 12-year-old Trinity was making an unlikely new friend: a horse named Cap. Both Trinity (whose name has been changed for purposes of anonymity) and Cap can relate on their rough start in life. Both come from unsafe environments, have had unstable living conditions and struggle with behavioral issues that have resulted in emotional turmoil. Both also never learned how to forge healthy relationships with humans.
While Cap was rescued and rehabilitated before coming to CORRAL (Centered on Riding, Rehabilitation and Learning), Trinity was referred to the equine therapy program by a school counselor and court social worker. The middle school student had been in an enduring cycle of risky behaviors, including fights at school and failing classes. With her future appearing bleak—and a family not equipped to effectively parent a wayward teen—CORRAL and Cap trotted into her life.
Founded in 2008 by Joy Currey after time spent in inner-city Philadelphia teaching and working with children, CORRAL was borne of her passion to help children who otherwise would not have opportunities to end negative trajectories—and thus effectively turn their lives around.With this vision of changing the lives of disadvantaged girls, Currey returned to her childhood home on Kildaire Farm Road in Cary (where her parents still reside) and opened the nonprofit equine therapy academy. There, under its “amplify their voices” mission, CORRAL seeks to pair girls in high-risk situations with rescued horses to show them that if a majestic horse can overcome hardships, perhaps they can too.
In the program, therapists and equine specialists work in unison to guide the girls and horses through therapy sessions to build a relationship of trust and patience. Teaching girls how to have a relationship with a horse when they have often been failed in their human relationships opens the door for dramatic change. “What we do here is transformative,” says Currey. “We are providing opportunities for girls who might not otherwise be given opportunities in life.”
But the galloping success of the program fell to a trot this year as the pandemic put a halt to fundraising events—and the nonprofit that relies solely on donations took a significant hit—both financially and for those it helps. While its budget and needs increased, funding decreased—at a time when it was needed the most. After the cancellation of the equine rehab center’s annual fundraising event, typically held on Kentucky Derby weekend (Derby Dinner), the nonprofit lost upward of $350,000 in donations.
In October 2019, a second farm located in North Raleigh, the Neuse River Campus, was opened to up the number of girls served in the community. But, with the decline in revenue, the growth of the campus has been dramatically limited.
CORRAL corporate strategist Camille Brown says the academy has had to pivot every step of the way during the pandemic. “All aspects of our mission have been affected during the COVID crisis. We had to change the way in which we have the girls, therapists and volunteers physically here on campus because of restrictions,” she says. “The families that we help now need more help due to increased food insecurities, housing concerns and job loss. The girls need a safe and consistent place to do virtual schooling. We’ve really had to think outside the box to make it all work.”
To combat the schooling crisis, CORRAL hired an education specialist to lead pod learning, where a group of girls attend online school together in a supportive environment. Transportation, technology, and educational and emotional support have been consistently provided through this turbulent time. “We provide the space, resources and horses,” says Brown. “The girls are doing the work.”
As for Trinity and her “mane” squeeze, Cap, the pair has continued to forge their bond, through which Trinity has learned to control her emotions and regulate her temper; that trust cannot be rushed, but can be earned; and, most importantly, that the people of CORRAL (and Cap) are devoted to her well-being.
“Cap shows me that I’m worthy of being loved and of having a true friend,” says Trinity. Clearly, there are no “neigh”-sayers that CORRAL is accomplishing Currey’s vision one girl and a horse at a time. corralriding.org
These are the best hot chocolate spots in Raleigh—hands down.
Rachel Simon
There’s no better way to spend winter than curled up on the couch with a cozy blanket, a movie and a steaming cup of hot chocolate in hand (especially this year, right?). Luckily, Raleigh is home to plenty of great ops for the toasty beverage—whether you prefer yours in its classic original form, topped with whipped cream or mixed with a flavor (think chai or peppermint). So next time you’re in the mood for a sweet treat that’ll also warm you up, head to one of these seven excellent hot chocolate spots around the city and grab a cup to go.
Tupelo Honey
Benelux Coffee 402 Oberlin Road Operating since 2010, Benelux is known for its roasted coffee and Belgian-inspired “wafels”—but don’t miss out on the eatery’s hot chocolate. It’s creamy and flavorful, and regulars can attest that it goes great with one of the cafe’s signature crispy wafels. $3.50 for 12-oz. cup
Escazu Chocolates 936 N. Blount St. Long considered one of the Triangle’s premier shops for all things chocolate, Escazu boasts the best cup of cocoa in Raleigh, bar none. The store, which gets its name from the district of Escazu, Costa Rica, prides itself on bean-to-bar chocolate and offers a range of confections, ice creams and, of course, hot chocolates. On average, there’s about 10 varieties from which to choose, including mocha, white chocolate, peanut butter and a few “historic” flavors inspired by recipes from the 1500s. Still, you also can’t go wrong with the original—it’s delicious and creamy, the perfect balance between standard cocoa and a thicker dessert-like treat. $4.75 for 10-oz. cup
Global Village Organic Coffee 2428 Hillsborough St. When you stop at Global Village for a breakfast sandwich or cup of coffee, don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate. Steamy and flavorful, the beverage can also be made spicy if that’s your thing—why not give it a go and see if you can handle the heat. $2.35 for small cup
Hereghty Heavenly Delicious 2603 Glenwood Ave. Nestled in the Glenwood Village Shopping Center, Hereghty’s hot chocolate is just one option among its many sweet offerings, which include scones, tiramisu, creme brulee and more. Enjoy a tasty regular cup or add in peppermint to spice it up—really, you can’t go wrong with either. $3.25 for 8-oz. cup
The Morning Times 10 E. Hargett St. Open since 2016, The Morning Times has been a staple in DTR. The fare is impressive, but so, too, is its selection of drinks—including hot cocoa. The cafe’s version comes with whipped cream. And if you’re craving something a little extra, try enhancing it with a flavor shot. $3.50 for 12-oz.
Tupelo Honey 425 Oberlin Road Tupelo Honey is a go-to spot for Southern food fans, known for its savory dishes like fried chicken, and shrimp and grits. With such a hearty menu, it’s easy to overlook the spot’s hot chocolate, but that’d be a mistake. Served as a regular cup or fancified with whipped cream and a chocolate drizzle, it’s a sweet, rich drink that’s great on a cold winter day. $3 for standard cup
Videri Chocolate Factory 327 W. Davie St. Another Raleigh staple for chocolate lovers, Videri offers allergy-friendly bean-to-bar products ranging from salted caramel bonbons to soft-serve ice cream, in addition to its beloved selection of hot chocolates. Cups come with a choice of local dairy or vegan oat milk, and while the regular hot chocolate is perfectly fine, it’s the company’s sipping chocolate that’s the real crowd-pleaser—tasting just like the warm, decadent melted chocolate bar it is, this sipper is a heavy but can’t-miss treat for dessert fans. $3 for 2-oz. sipping chocolate; $3.50 for 8-oz. hot chocolate; $.50 each for whipped cream or peppermint syrup add-ons
The one thing that got us through 2020? Alcohol. (There, we said it!)
We relied on our favorite local bars, restaurants, and beer and wine shops for cocktail kits, brews and vino to-go—and, as of last month, cocktails to-go—to get us through what was one of the toughest years, well, ever. But 2020 wasn’t just hard on us—it was brutal for our fair city’s bar scene too. To date, many of our prized watering holes are still not permitted to open under current restrictions—after almost an entire year of being closed—and those who are open must be able to serve patrons outdoors (in the middle of winter, no less).
We thought a lot about whether to bring back our annual Best Bars issue this month, and, ultimately, we decided that, this year especially, Raleigh’s bar scene deserves to be celebrated. But just like everything else in 2020, there’s a pivot. We came up with 50 accolades (think fun senior superlatives) that pay tribute to aspects we appreciate about each of these Raleigh bars, restaurant bars, wine shops, bottle shops and breweries—regardless of their current open or closed status. We also highlight the sip spots that have done a particularly good job making us feel safe in their socially distanced and exceptionally sanitized spaces. (And, thank you, readers, for your votes and responses!)
Finally, we want all of Raleigh’s bar scene to know we’re rooting for you, and we can’t wait to be perched on your bar stools with a drink in hand again soon. Cheers to a brighter 2021!
Best Overall
Dram & Draught dramanddraught.com Not long after relocating to the One Glenwood building, Dram & Draught was forced to close its doors due to the pandemic. Initially not allowed to serve drinks on premise, it pivoted to a grocery store, offering everything from eggs and cheese to toilet paper to beer, wine and cocktail kits. Owners Kevin Barrett and Drew Schenck also brought their vibrant personalities to virtual cocktail classes until they were eventually allowed to reopen Dram’s patio with socially distanced tables and cozy heaters.
Dram & Draught
Killjoy killjoycocktail.com In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Killjoy opened with an impressive digital scanner that ensures each guest is wearing a mask and is at a normal body temperature before entering. It’s a nifty investment that makes patrons feel safe while enjoying one of Killjoy’s beloved craft or spirit-free cocktails. Inside, cozy couches and tables are spaced 6 feet apart and separated with eye-catching plants that only add to the bar’s hip vibe, while outside on the covered (heated) patio, large booths backdropped by a colorful array of florals accommodate bigger groups.
Killjoy
Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing wyehill.com This uber-popular brewery/bar/restaurant has managed to turn its patio into a warm and cozy oasis for dining and drinking—even in the middle of winter—with tents, heaters and an all-around warm, inviting and, most importantly, safe atmosphere. Even in the summertime, fans and mist were a relief from the worst of North Carolina’s hot and humid days. Additionally, Wye Hill was one of the only bars or restaurants in town to throw a spectacular socially distanced and masked sit-down New Year’s Eve dinner, complete with delicious food and drink menus.
Wye Hill
Whiskey Kitchen whiskey.kitchen Pre-pandemic, Whiskey Kitchen’s expansive patio was the place to be—and during the pandemic, not much has changed. The spaced-out umbrella-covered picnic tables are the perfect spot to pop a squat for socially distanced gatherings, whether you’re stopping by for a cocktail, or lunch, dinner or weekend brunch from its Southern kitchen. On warm 2020 days, Whiskey Kitchen’s rolled-up garage doors extended it’s open-air feel indoors, making many more comfortable with sipping “indoors.” In winter, heaters dot the expansive patio, while, inside, the whiskey bar ensures all inside tables are placed more than 6 feet apart for extra-safe social distancings.
Whiskey Kitchen
50 Best Bars
Highest Elevation 10th & Terrace 10thandterrace.com Take things next level (literally) on this chic 10th-floor rooftop of the Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown. Breathtaking (and ’gram-worthy) views overlooking Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts and miles of decked DTR streets play backdrop to palatable local brews, fine wines and craft cocktails—not to mention its famed summertime boozy popsicles.
10th & Terrace
Best New Hot Spot Bowstring Pizza and Brewyard bowstringbrewyard.com Vic’s Pizza Bus brings the hot slices—vegan flatbreads included—and baked wings, while Bowstring serves up the beer (local drafts rotate often) and cocktails—and cocktail towers (!!) if you’re riding with your crew out—on its expansive heated patio. And the bar is quickly becoming North Raleigh’s new fave neighborhood hangout.
Best To-Go Cocktails The Haymaker thehaymakerraleigh.com The Haymaker delivers warmth in a to-go-appropriate cup with signature cocktails like Cousin Eddie’s Eggnog (eggnog lovers rejoice!), mulled wine and The Haymaker classic Smoke Show (a mix of Old Forester 100-proof bourbon, Fino sherry, maple, pineapple, lime and black cardamom). No cold weather blues here!
Best Girls’ Night Out Barcelona Wine Bar barcelonawinebar.com/location/raleigh If your girlfriends are the types who are always down to split a bottle of wine, Barcelona is the destination for your girls’ night out. And since sharing is caring, a delicious menu of tapas and charcuterie make the GNO spot even sweeter.
Best Playlist Little City Brewing + Provisions Co. littlecitybrewing.com If you’re looking for Spotify inspo, you’re gonna wanna belly up to the bar at Little City and lend an ear to the must-hear selection of perfectly picked playlists—which also serve to elevate the experience of sipping flavor-forward handcrafted brews and craft cocktails in its beautiful taproom.
Little City
Best Beer Selection House of Hops houseofhopsnc.com With 300-plus bottled and canned beers and 24 rotating drafts on offer, family-owned House of Hops’ two bar and bottle shop locations (Glenwood and McNeil Pointe) are perfect for some hoppy liquid therapy in front of the game, on the patio or over some cornhole.
Most Comfortable Seating Havana Deluxe havanadeluxe.com Once you slide into one of Havana Deluxe’s plush leather couches, you’ll never want to get up—unless it’s to get another drink. The dim almost cavelike lounge lends a moody atmosphere, perfect for enjoying whiskey, martinis and cigars (bring your own).
Coolest Bar Staff Foundation foundationnc.com The too-cool-for-school attitude of Foundation’s bartenders serves to make the legendary underground bar’s handcrafted cocktails even more sought-after. During the pandemic, we especially loved seeing the witty titles they came up with for their cocktails to-go.
Best Vibe William & Company facebook.com/willcobar Wilco, as the regulars call it, offers a cozy, laid-back lounge vibe—complete with noteworthy brick walls, wooden floors and upholstered couches—that’s ideal for sipping cocktails, beer or wine into the wee hours of the night—or early morning.
Best Liquor Selection Hoppy Endings hoppyendings.net Hoppy Endings’ abundance of liquor offerings is almost too overwhelming—but for liquor afficiados, it’s like being a kid in a candy store, with over 1,500 bottles of bourbon, whiskey (the bar has the largest whiskey selection in the Southeast) and scotch from which to choose.
Coolest Bathrooms Angus Barn Wild Turkey Lounge angusbarn.com You just haven’t gone to the bathroom until you’ve experienced the luxe lavatories in Angus Barn’s Wild Turkey Lounge. From the turkey-adorned door to the well-supplied essentials, these loos are easily bougier than any bathroom around, bar none. Enter into a powder-room paradise stocked with the needs of your wildest dreams (breath mints, bobby pins, hairspray, chapstick, mouthwash, mascara and even perfume, to name a few), so you can freshen (or fully restore) your face before heading back to your date or business happy hour.
Best 2020 Pivot Dram & Draught dramanddraught.com From a grocery store to virtual cocktail classes to cocktail kits to-go, Dram and Draught did anything they could to keep its head above water—and we were totally here for it. Where else were we going to get toilet paper when the major grocery stores ran out?
Best Guys’ Night Out Tobacco Road Sports Cafe tobaccoroadsportscafe.com/raleigh-brewery TV screens throughout the restaurant make Tobacco Road a no-brainer for a night of sports-watching with the boys. During commercial breaks, there’s plenty of beer (brewed on-site) and scratch-made food to be had—we recommend the burgers, wings and nachos.
Best Rooftop Level7 level7roofbar.com Come to AC Hotel’s Level7 rooftop bar for stunning views of the bustling North Hills shopping district, and stay for the cocktails, wines, beers, and European- and Spanish-influenced tapas.
Best Wine Selection Vinos Finos Tapas and Wine Bar vinosfinosypicadas.com It’s always wine o’clock at Vinos Finos (which appropriately translates to fine wines), where a friendly and knowledgeable staff pairs the city’s largest selection of South American wines with delicious tapas and must-try Argentine empanadas in a cozy warm ambiance. Don’t forget to grab a bottle to take home.
Coolest Cocktail Garnishes C. Grace cgracebar.com Don’t let anyone tell you drink adornments don’t matter. Pros will tell you an artful garnish ties the cocktail together—which is exactly what you’ll get in C. Grace’s lowlit, swanky, sophisticated, red-curtain adorned den-like digs with a backdrop of steamy jazz tunes and ambiance for days. (Not to mention some of the best drinks in town and a legacy of live music several nights a week.)
Where to take your Parents Transfer Co. Bar at Transfer Co. Food Hall transfercofoodhall.com There’s no need to worry about picky parents at Transfer Co. The bar offers everything from housemade cocktails to beer and wine—plus nonalcoholic options too—while the food hall itself boasts 10 different food vendors from which to choose.
Best Date-Night Spot Watts & Ward wattsandward.com Famed for its sexy, subterranean 1920s Americana vibe with leather couches that feel straight out of Mad Men, this third-year-running Raleigh Magazine Best Overall Bar winner (2018–2020) has pivoted to focus on its now reopened large covered light-strung patio and yard, where martinis and moonlight mix for the perfect night out.
Watts & Ward
Best Seasonal Beers Crank Arm Brewing crankarmbrewing.com Crank Arm’s unique and colorful beer cans are enough to look forward to every season and holiday. Crack them open and you’ll be even more satisfied with the delicious contents—Icycle, Sproktoberfest and Motivator are just some of our trusty seasonal faves.
Crank Arm Brewing
Best Subterranean Atlantic Lounge instagram.com/theatlanticlounge Atlantic Lounge may be the most exclusive bar in Raleigh—you must be 25 and given a special key to get in—but once inside, you’ll loosen up to the moody lighting, casual bartenders and innovative cocktails. Plus, it’s BYOV (bring your own vinyl).
Atlantic Lounge
Best Art Vita Vite vitaviteraleigh.com Part art gallery, part wine bar, Vita Vite houses a plethora of beautiful paintings and other art pieces by both locally and nationally known artists. Fitting, as owner Lindsay Rice earned her master’s degree in art history and museum studies, and founded Vita Vite in an effort to make art more approachable and accessible to the everyday individual.
Vita Vite
Best Spirit-Free Cocktails Killjoy killjoycocktail.com Regardless of whether or not you partake in alcoholic beverages, Killjoy has you covered for a fun night out. And if it’s spirit-free you seek, the bar’s nonalcoholic offerings are just as tasty as their alcoholic counterparts. We rec the tahini colada made with sesame, coconut, pineapple, cranberry bitters and bayleaf.
Most “Localist” Liquors Dogwood Bar & Eatery dogwoodraleigh.com If Raleigh-born liquors like Socialhouse vodka ring your bell, head to Dogwood’s indoor-outdoor bars and grand wraparound heated porch overlooking Glenwood South for a Socialista (Social House vodka, St. Germain, Aperol, lemon simple syrup) or—a spin on the classic Moscow Mule—the downhome Social Mule (Social House vodka, Gosling’s ginger beer, lime).
Most Spacious The Raleigh Times raleightimesbar.com Situated in the 100-year-old building that housed its namesake (now defunct) newspaper, The Raleigh Times spans almost a full city block with multiple entrances, second-floor seating, sidewalk tables and a rooftop patio to boot—giving you plenty of places to perch and space to spread out for its vast selection of craft beers—especially Belgians!—and fab fare.
Best First-Date Spot Bittersweet bittersweetraleigh.com It doesn’t get much sweeter than splitting one of Bittersweet’s decadent desserts on a first date. You won’t be able to resist the derby pie… and perhaps a late-night kiss to seal the deal.
Tastiest Snacks Fox Liquor Bar ac-restaurants.com/fox It’s no surprise that AC’s cocktail bar would serve not only great drinks, but delicious snacks to boot. Droolworthy options include loaded tots with bacon, sour cream, queso and scallions; hot Buffalo chicken dip; and a classic diner-style cheeseburger.
Best Trivia Night Flying Saucer Draught Emporium beerknurd.com If you’re looking to get your game on, head to Flying Saucer, where “beer knurds” unite for Tuesday Trivia at this draft emporium serving up hundreds of craft beers from NC and beyond.
Best Dance Floor Legends Nightclub legends-club.com You haven’t really danced until you’ve danced at Legends—Raleigh’s first and longest-standing LGBTQ club. Neon lights, pulsing music and an overall high energy make it easy to dance the night away.
Coziest Patio The Longleaf Hotel & Lounge thelongleafhotel.com Even in the middle of winter, we could spend all night cozied up on Longleaf’s patio, thanks to fire pits, wool blankets and heaters. An alcohol blanket from a classic cocktail, glass of worldly wine or a local beer doesn’t hurt either.
Most Fido-Friendly Junction West junctionwestnc.com Fidos of all breeds and sizes love playing and rolling around in Junction West’s courtyard covered with artificial grass, making it easy for owners to relax and enjoy a cocktail or two on warm days while their fur-children ruff it up. Just remember to BYO doggy bags!
Junction West
Best Patio Hangout Whiskey Kitchen whiskey.kitchen Offering open-air sipping at its finest, Whiskey Kitchen’s large (heated!) picnic table-adorned patio is complemented by a garage-door facade that’s open on warm days—offering the perfect perch for whiskey aficionados and craft cocktail lovers alike to sip on over 140 whiskies and handcrafted libations while snacking on fine fare from its Southern kitchen.
Best Brunch Hummingbird hummingbirdraleigh.com Together, Hummingbird’s full coffee bar, exquisite drink selections and beautiful brunch dishes—not to mention the delightfully decorated patio complete with the bar’s signature neon sign—make for one of the most Instagram-worthy brunches in Raleigh.
Best Drink Specials My Way Tavern mywaytavern.com On any day of the week, you can get a killer deal on food and drinks at My Way Tavern. Drink specials include $1 off NC drafts on Carolina Monday, $4.50 well drinks on Wednesdays, and $5 bloody marys and mimosas on Sunday Funday.
Tiniest The Green Light architectbar.com/the-green-light Behind a hidden door at The Architect lies Raleigh’s best-kept secret bar, The Green Light. Having earned national acclaim as one of America’s best speakeasies, the tiny dimly lit spot behind the bookcase door is ideal for taking a break from The Architect’s dance floor to cozy up on the banquette seating overlooking DTR while sipping on a handcrafted boozy cocktail.
The Green Light
Best Sours Burial Beer Co. burialbeer.com/location/dtr Funky sours with even funkier names are one of Burial’s claims to fame. The brewery, which originally opened in Asheville, had to expand its downtown Raleigh space shortly after opening at Transfer Co. Food Hall because of how popular it became.
Burial Beer Co.
Coolest Barware STIR stirraleigh.com You can’t judge a book by its cover, but you can totally judge a drink by its glass—especially at STIR in North Hills, where the barware—not to mention the handcrafted artisanal ice, fresh ingredients and in-house bitters and syrups—add a level of chic authenticity and sex appeal to a handcrafted cocktail list that’s worth Ubering for.
Best for Business Sullivan’s Steakhouse sullivanssteakhouse.com Situated in the Creamery Building on Glenwood South, Sullivan’s classic, luxe interiors, unparalleled martinis (not to mention its signature house-cut steaks) and fine-dining atmosphere make it the perfect (and popular) spot for entertaining clients and colleagues.
Best Sports Viewing Carolina Ale House carolinaalehouse.com High above Glenwood Avenue, Carolina Ale House offers plenty of TVs for optimal sports-watching both inside and on the enclosed patio. Expect plenty of fanfare on local-team game days—both college and pro.
Best Events Clouds Brewing Downtown cloudsbrewing.com If you don’t know it for its locale in the old CP&L art deco building, large patio, 40 taps, vast spirits or palatable fare (hey, brunch!), then you should know it for its calendar offerings. From Beats and Brews and Plank n’ Drank yoga to Cause for Paws adoption events, trivia nights and much more, Clouds promises to fun-tain you year-round.
Most Kid-Friendly Lynnwood Brewing Concern lynnwoodgrill.com If you’re jonesin’ for a cold brew with the mini-me’s in tow, Lynnwood Brewing Concern is the place to go. Housed in Dock 1053, the neighborhood hot spot is popular for its super-spacious fam-friendly (including Fido!) beer garden and open-air barroom with rollup garage doors—which will keep the tots entertained so you can relax over the “locally brewed, lovingly crafted, award-winning beers.”
Where to Play Games Boxcar Bar + Arcade theboxcarbar.com/raleigh Raleigh’s only barcade is home to over 70 classic and modern arcade games, a dozen or so pinball machines, and 175-plus console games. A full liquor bar with 24 rotating drafts and a popcorn machine that stays popping (for when the munchies inevitably hit) allows patrons to spend the entire day gaming with friends.
Longest Standing Players Retreat playersretreat.com Since it was founded in 1951, the “PR” (as it’s affectionately referred to by locals) has become a Raleigh institution for its extensive drink list, elevated bar food, family atmosphere and fan-fave patio that attracts Raleighites of all ages and from all walks of life for game days or hangouts.
Most Taps The Raleigh Beer Garden theraleighbeergarden.com Raleigh Beer Garden has held the Guinness World Record for most varieties of beer on tap since 2015. The popular Glenwood South bar and restaurant had a total of 369 different taps when it earned the record; now there’s more than 400. Drink up!
Raleigh Beer Garden
Most Colorful Aunty Betty’s Gin and Absinthe Bar auntybettysbar.com Some people go to the Morgan Street Food Hall for food. We go for the artastic atmosphere—from vivid murals covering the wall to the fun, moody lighting to the colorful couches and scattered plants. This distinct bar anchoring the food hall is the place to be—and don’t even get us started on their gin and tonic… perfection!
Aunty Betty’s
Best Bubbly Vidrio vidrioraleigh.com There’s no shortage of fine wines at Vidrio—the restaurant-bar serves 48 wines on tap and a robust collection of domestic and international bottles—including a variety of delicious bubbly. Whether you’re toasting an accomplishment, a birthday or just treating yourself, Vidrio’s best-in-class bubbles are reason enough to celebrate on their own.
Best Views Wye Hill wyehill.com For brews and chef-driven chews with a view, Wye Hill’s patio serves up the best views of the DTR skyline—period. You’re gonna want to make sure you snap photos—whether you’re seeing it through this lens for the first time or hundredth… the cityscape from this POV is just simply captivating. If nothing else, do it for the ’Gram.
Best Shots The Cardinal facebook.com/thecardinalbar The Cardinal’s infused liquor makes for some of the best—and cheapest—shots in town. Chase them with one of the lowkey bar’s famous beer-braised hot dogs, which are also available as veggie dogs.
Best Place for Conversation Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie neuseriverbrewing.com Remember “The One Where They’re Going to Party” on Friends—only to realize all they really want is to sit in a comfy chair and hear each other without having to yell? Well, chill, conversation-friendly paradise found in this “Belgian-inspired, Carolina-crafted” brewhouse and brasserie with Belgian-inspired craft brews perfect for washing down fare from the European bistro-inspired menu in the comfortable light-filled taproom or outside on the heated patio.
Neuse River Brewing & Brasserie
Moodiest Slim’s slimsraleigh.com If dark and moody with a lovable rough-around-the-edges mystique is what you’re after, there’s no bar more fitting—or moodier—in town. The epitome of dive bars, Slim’s intimate in-house stage has long-been a go-to for DJs and live music that run the gamut from well-known bands to those on-the-rise. (And we’d be remiss not to mention its outback patio and upstairs lounge with pool table.)
The Close That Broke Our Hearts Coglin’s coglins.com To say we’ll miss Coglin’s is an understatement. It wasn’t just a bar. It was a time machine. For the last seven years, it was a place where we checked life’s worries at the door for an epic nostalgic dance party—singing and dancing the night away to the quintessential sounds of the ’80s and ’90s. RIP, Coglin’s. Our hearts are broken. May the fun-loving and free-spirited energy you brought every night live on within us all.
