Fullsteam brewery serves classic and innovative beers crafted with locally farmed ingredients, including sweet potatoes, basil and grapes used in experimental recipes. The industrial, spacious brewery has plenty of room for groups, the occasional live band, arcade games, darts, and ping pong tables. Although Fullsteam does not serve food of its own, visitors are welcome to bring their own, or take advantage of the rotating cast of food trucks that park just outside the bar on most days.
Located beneath King’s Royal Barcade, Neptune's Parlour is a hip underground bar that offers DJs, pinball, ping pong and arcade games. It also boasts a menu of local craft beers from mostly small North Carolina Brewers, seasonal cocktails and the very popular shot of the week. On weekends the bar is packed with dancers, and on some nights live acts play in front of the brick-walled stage. Neptune’s adds subterranean character to downtown Raleigh’s bar scene, off–or under–the beaten path.
Solas is a luxurious dance club and lounge bar on three levels. Visitors can enjoy classic cocktails and small plates on a first-floor open-air patio or the rooftop deck, which has a motorized awning and offers fine views of Glenwood South downtown district. The lounges and bar rooms are secondary to the second floor’s glass-bottom dance floor, however, which is usually crowded with revelers on weekends. Solas has private rooms and first-rate VIP service, and caters to corporate events, weddings and private parties.
Noir is an upscale lounge bar and dance club near downtown Raleigh boasting sultry lighting, crystal chandeliers, exposed brick and plush velvet seating. The club has a vintage, ornate feel, and bills itself as an old-school European venue. The bar itself is a large room with a dance floor between lounge-seating and a beautiful black counter. In between cocktails and dancing at Noir, you can enjoy the club's front patio, which is a great vantage point for people watching.
Alley Twenty Six is sophisticated cocktail and wine bar serving charcuterie and small plates in stylish surroundings. Locals come to the bar for the relaxing, dimly-lit atmosphere, classic cocktails, and nicely curated wine list. Attention to detail and flavor sets Ally Twenty Six apart from other contemporary cocktail bars. The team here creates one of a kind homemade syrups and tonics: think zesty cinchona bark and lemongrass syrup. The bar, which faces East Chapel Street, has a little outdoor seating on 26 Alley, from which it takes its name.
The Raleigh Times is housed in a restored century-old building, and celebrates local history with news clippings and images clipped to its walls. Stepping into the bar is like stepping into Raleigh’s past, when papers were hawked on street corners and watering holes were only for whiskey. The Times’ menu features creative takes on classic pub fare, and an extensive beer selection with a focus on Belgian ales. The second-floor deck seating has the best views of downtown Raleigh.
Carmen's Cuban Bar & Cafe have imbibed the Cuban spirit and transformed it into this charming bar. With authentic Cuban delicacies and Latin Music dance nights every weekend, Carmen's is a great place to let your hair down and swing to the music.
Tired from playing mini golf and other games at Frankie's Fun Park? Then head over to The Chill Lounge to grab a drink and relax. Located inside the park, the fully-stocked bar also offers American and Mexican cuisine. It's a great place to hang out with your friends and watch the game. The Chill Lounge also has pool tables and an excellent multimedia system, ensuring an enjoyable experience. The ambiance is also quite tasteful with multicolored wall decor, a cherry bar countertop and dark wooden furnishing. The lounge is an important, integral part of the park.
Sharp Nine Gallery is the right place to go to if you are interested in jazz. Located in Durham, NC, the venue organizes various music programs and classes and aims to educate the crowd on jazz culture. They are also available for concerts and other music events.
A family-friendly Italian restaurant, Bella Monica is great for those who want to enjoy a hearty Italian meal in casual environs. The artwork adorned walls, peppy music and fine Italian wines sets the mood for a pleasant dining experience. The simple, homestyle food follows traditional recipes and is a delight to the taste buds. Shrimp Napoli, Pomodoro Bruschetta and Portobello & Sundried Tomato Lasagne are just some of the decadent delicacies on offer. Besides the array of Italian delicacies,flatbread and pizzas, the restaurant also serves up great gluten-free fare. While you are eating the great food, don’t forget to save room for one of the desserts. The Cannoli and Affogato are particularly delicious. A separate kid’s menu and smaller portions for children are also provided. If you are craving good ol’ Italian food, a meal at Bella Monica won’t disappoint.