RankNC – Discover North Carolina's Best: Reviews, Rankings & Insights

Search
Close this search box.

Best Cocktail Bars In Raleigh, NC

Best Cocktail Bars In Raleigh, NC - Watts & Ward Neon Sign
Raleigh, NC - Watts & Ward

Disclosure: If you make a purchase through our links we may be compensated at no cost to you.

Welcome to our guide to the best cocktail bars in Raleigh, NC!

Savor expertly crafted cocktails, chic atmospheres, and innovative drink menus that push the boundaries of mixology.

Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply in search of a sophisticated night out, these establishments offer an unforgettable experience.

RankNC's Top Picks

Discover Raleigh’s top destinations for expertly crafted cocktails and stylish ambiance, perfect for a night out on the town or a special celebration.

1. Watts & Ward

Raleigh

Step into the world of speakeasies at Watts & Ward, a hidden gem cocktail bar in downtown Raleigh.

Behind an unassuming door, you’ll find a sophisticated space reminiscent of the Prohibition era. 

You’ll find exposed brick walls, plush leather seating, and an extensive menu of classic and inventive cocktails.

From expertly mixed martinis to artisanal concoctions made with house-infused spirits, Watts & Ward offers a genuinely immersive cocktail experience unlike any other city.

Best Cocktail Bars In Raleigh, NC - Watts & Ward
Raleigh, NC - Watts & Ward

2. Foundation

Raleigh

Discover a haven for cocktail enthusiasts at Foundation, a cozy bar in Raleigh’s historic Fayetteville Street district.

With its exposed brick walls, soft lighting, and vintage decor, Foundation exudes a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Sip on classic cocktails like the Negroni or the Moscow Mule, or try one of Foundation’s inventive house creations, expertly crafted by their talented team of bartenders.

3. The Haymaker

Raleigh

Elevate your cocktail game at The Haymaker, a stylish downtown bar known for its innovative drinks and modern Southern hospitality.

With a focus on seasonal ingredients and house-made syrups and infusions, The Haymaker offers a menu of creative libations that push the boundaries of traditional cocktail-making.

From refreshing spritzers and classic highballs to adventurous tiki concoctions, there’s something for every palate to enjoy at this contemporary Raleigh hotspot.

4. Fox Liquor Bar

Raleigh

Unwind in style at Fox Liquor Bar, a sleek underground lounge beneath Beasley’s Chicken + Honey in downtown Raleigh.

Fox Liquor Bar exudes a comfortable yet sophisticated ambiance by featuring exposed brick walls, cozy leather booths, and soft candlelight.  It’s perfect for intimate conversations or casual gatherings.

Sip on expertly crafted cocktails like the Barrel-Aged Manhattan or the Smoke & Mirrors while enjoying the laid-back vibe and friendly service.

5. The Green Light Bar

Raleigh

Enter through the green door and enter a world of vintage glamour at The Green Light Bar. It’s a retro-inspired cocktail lounge in downtown Raleigh’s City Market.

Paying homage to the clandestine speakeasies of the Prohibition era, The Green Light Bar offers a menu of classic cocktails and an extensive selection of spirits and liqueurs.

It has a cozy atmosphere and impeccable attention to detail. The Green Light Bar is perfect for an unforgettable night out in Raleigh.

6. Whiskey Kitchen

Raleigh

Savor the flavors of the South at Whiskey Kitchen, a trendy restaurant and bar located in downtown Raleigh’s Warehouse District.

Known for its extensive selection of whiskey and bourbon, Whiskey Kitchen also offers a menu of handcrafted cocktails highlighting Southern spirits’ rich and complex flavors.

Situated in a historic warehouse building, the bar’s industrial-chic decor and laid-back atmosphere make it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

7. The Raleigh Times Bar

Raleigh

Step back in time at The Raleigh Times Bar, a historic watering hole housed in a beautifully restored building. This building once served as the office of the Raleigh Times newspaper.

The Raleigh Times Bar offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for craft cocktails and local brews. It has vintage charm, exposed brick walls, and eclectic decor.

Pull up a stool at the bar, relax on the outdoor patio, or gather with friends in the lively main dining area for a night of drinks and conversation.

8. The Anchor Bar

Raleigh

Set sail for adventure at The Anchor Bar, a nautical-themed cocktail lounge in downtown Raleigh’s Moore Square district.

Inspired by the golden age of seafaring, The Anchor Bar features maritime decor, cozy booths, and a lively atmosphere perfect for enjoying drinks with friends. 

Sip on creative cocktails like the Sailor’s Sling or the Captain’s Punch while soaking up the bar’s playful ambiance and friendly vibe.

Conclusion

Experience the art of mixology at these top cocktail bars in Raleigh, NC, where expertly crafted drinks and stylish settings await.

Whether a cocktail connoisseur or a casual imbiber, you will find the perfect spot to raise a glass and toast to good times in the Capital City.

Picture of The Doirons

The Doirons

Our mission is to get you to encounter the unlimited potential that North Carolina has to offer and experience it to the fullest. RankNC is designed to be a source of research, inspiration, and ideas for those who refuse to settle for anything less than an extraordinary time. On this website, we will openly and passionately share the very best that NC has to offer as my family and I continue to discover this beautiful state.
Editorial Process:


Experts make our reviews before being written and come from real-world experience and research. Read our editorial process here.

Some links in this article may be affiliate links, which can compensate us at no cost to you if you purchase from our partners. We’ve personally researched, used, and stand behind these products. You can read our affiliate disclosure in our privacy policy.

Raleigh, NC Quick Links
Scroll to Top