Raleigh’s favorite landmark is proof that consistency never goes out of style.
“May the roof above us never fall in and the friends gathered below never fall out.” So goes the MO of the literal landmark that’s stood strong for nearly two decades, despite Raleigh’s tendency to chase the next new thing. Dark, dive-y and endearing, Landmark Tavern knows how to lure them in—and how to make them stay.
Holding it down on Hargett Street, the longtime bar and third place proves it isn’t an overly curated aesthetic or a cocktail menu dressed to the nines that keeps people coming back—it’s nonchalant consistency.
Whether you’re leaving a grueling shift, bopping around after a Lincoln Theatre show, or looking for a shot and a beer after a posh DTR dinner, Landmark upholds the simple philosophy greats from Kurt Cobain to Jesus crooned: Come as you are.
Part moody and mysterious, part sports bar + music venue depending on the night and time of year (a Landmark pit stop during Hopscotch is nonnegotiable), the patio feels like the last hours of a day well spent in a midsize European city. Think: cigarette smoke, wrought-iron tables and constant waves of old friends running into each other. And of course the glue holding it all together: Cheap drinks. But rest assured you can still get your hands on a well-made Aperol spritz or premium shot (read: one that goes down easier than Rumple) if that’s what the night calls for.
Turns out, the old Irish blessing had it right all along: Landmark proves longevity has less to do with trends like colorful cocktail menus, neon signs and sleek overly designed interiors, and more to do with a roof above and friends below. It really is just as simple as that. landmarktavernraleigh.com
Despite new dining and drinking destinations aplenty, a plethora of OGs still hold a soft spot in our hearts—from iconic jazz clubs and hidden gems to hot spots from Hillsborough Street’s glory days. We take your brain down memory lane to test your smarts on some standout Raleigh restaurants and bars. Let the nostalgia commence!
1. Gimme something good! Ryan Adams formed the first version of rock band Whiskeytown in 1994 at which Raleigh restaurant and makeshift music venue?
a. The Comet Lounge b. The Brewery c. Sadlack’s Heroes d. Berkeley Cafe
2. Which fan-fave Hillsborough Street bar devastated locals when it shuttered—and never reopened as promised? a. East Village Grill b. Pantana Bob’s c. The Rockford d. The Green Monkey
3. Here’s to Raleigh restaurant history! What was the first dining/drinking establishment to open on Glenwood South? a. Hibernian Pub b. Cafe Helios c. Mellow Mushroom d. The Rockford
5. To the horror of live music lovers, Hillsborough Street’s iconic The Brewery was demolished in 2011. Which of these bands graced the space during its run? a. Paramore b. Panic! At The Disco c. Phish d. All of the above
6. What famous musician found fame after performing at jazz club Frog and Nightgown in the ’60s—then ended up living in Raleigh for over a decade while working for former Gov. Terry Sanford? a. Betty Carter b. Carol Sloane c. Peggy Lee d. Julie London
7. “I actually saw him read a book without pictures once!” At what local go-to were scenes from the 1988 rom-com Bull Durham filmed? a. Players Retreat b. Winston’s Grille c. Piccola Italia d. Mitch’s Tavern
8. He’s truly living the American dream. During a stop in NC earlier this year, what Raleigh spot did President Joe Biden nosh at with Gov. Roy Cooper? a. Second Empire b. Char-Grill c. Cook Out d. A Place at the Table
9. ~Feline~ fine! Which former live music club was housed in a DTR building boasting a mural of a cat sporting a blazer and a top hat? a. Crowley’s b. The Rialto c. C. Grace d. Neptunes
