Vinos Finos is a departure from run-of-the-mill drinking and dining experiences. Located inside European-themed Lafayette Village, the wine bar is designed to sample tapas-style dishes and world-class wines. The staff here is more than happy to help with wine selection and pairings. Dark woods, leather furniture, and warm colors make the interiors feel like an old-world wine shop. Vinos Finos encourages patrons to converse, and the intimate, colorful setting is doubly suited for first dates or casual business meetings.
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.
Flex is a warm-hearted, no-nonsense nightclub and gay bar housed inside a brick warehouse near downtown Raleigh. The club hosts weekly themed events, concerts, karaoke nights, drag races and dance parties. Flex has the feel of a well-kept neighborhood dive bar, clean with endearing roughness around the edges. Locals visit Flex for inexpensive drinks, friendly bartenders, lively weekly events and the overall welcoming style and ambiance. The patio here is a great place to catch an evening breeze, and respite from the party indoors.
Located in Raleigh, the Boxcar Bar + Arcade relays you back to the days of Tetris and Mario with their super cool arcade games and decor. Gather around here to grab a drink with friends, or catch the game with your sports buddies or better yet, challenge your friend to a playoff at Ms. PacMan. Whatever you do, a night of boozy revelry is guaranteed with an amazing variety of draft brews and tallboys. Kids are welcome with their parents to take a stab at one of these cool 1990s games before 9p. Although only an unlimited serving of fresh popcorn is made available, guests are allowed to carry in food from outside.
Nearly a North Carolina landmark, Mitch’s Tavern is an old-school pub that serves good beer and hearty American dishes including gluten-free gumbo and stews, gazpacho, and Cuban sandwiches. The bar is tucked away in a brick building on Hillsborough Street, and walking in you’ll feel as if you have stumbled into a simple, valuable secret. Mitch's is located nearby North Carolina State University, and has a history of feeding generations of students with items from a specials menu known for miles around.
The Players Retreat has been a Raleigh burger and beer touchstone since 1951, and is the antithesis of the high energy lounges that dominate parts of West Raleigh. The interiors stand out with dark wood, black booths, and a vintage university feel. Locals come to the retreat for the burgers and largest malt scotch selection in North Carolina. Although the Retreat’s homespun menu has become time-honored, it now offers a bit of sophistication with a comprehensive wine list.
Vinos Finos is a departure from run-of-the-mill drinking and dining experiences. Located inside European-themed Lafayette Village, the wine bar is designed to sample tapas-style dishes and world-class wines. The staff here is more than happy to help with wine selection and pairings. Dark woods, leather furniture, and warm colors make the interiors feel like an old-world wine shop. Vinos Finos encourages patrons to converse, and the intimate, colorful setting is doubly suited for first dates or casual business meetings.
This charming little establishment doubles as a wine bar and cafe. Serving up delicious small plates and vino from around the world, Poppyseed Market is an upscale, yet casual eatery in Raleigh. Find scrumptious eats like grilled bourbon shrimp skewers or their blackened fish tacos. Gourmet pizzas, hot and cold deli sandwiches, salads and even a kids menu offer a delightful array of choices. Wine pairings are often suggested by the knowledgeable staff and private wine and cheese tastings happen throughout the month.
Located in Raleigh, the Boxcar Bar + Arcade relays you back to the days of Tetris and Mario with their super cool arcade games and decor. Gather around here to grab a drink with friends, or catch the game with your sports buddies or better yet, challenge your friend to a playoff at Ms. PacMan. Whatever you do, a night of boozy revelry is guaranteed with an amazing variety of draft brews and tallboys. Kids are welcome with their parents to take a stab at one of these cool 1990s games before 9p. Although only an unlimited serving of fresh popcorn is made available, guests are allowed to carry in food from outside.
Nash Street Tavern is what every good neighborhood tavern should be - friendly, warm and welcoming. A decent rotating tap list, classic American comfort food, and occasional live music events make it a great spot to relax with a couple of friends after a long day. With the live screening of the latest games, you can bond with other patrons over sports and beer.
Nestled in the vibrant Glenwood South district, Sullivan's Steakhouse exudes an air of sophistication and warmth from the moment you step through its doors. The restaurant's elegant interior features rich mahogany accents, soft lighting, and plush leather seating, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for a romantic dinner, a celebratory gathering, or a memorable night out with friends. At the heart of Sullivan's culinary offerings are its prime steaks, hand-selected for their quality and flavor. From the richly marbled ribeye to the tender filet mignon, each cut is expertly seasoned and grilled to perfection, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth dining experience that satisfies even the most discerning palate. Complementing the steaks are a variety of tantalizing seafood options, including fresh-caught salmon, succulent lobster tails, and jumbo shrimp cocktail, providing something for every taste. To accompany the main course, Sullivan's offers an array of delectable side dishes, from indulgent creamed spinach to savory garlic mashed potatoes, as well as an extensive selection of fine wines and handcrafted cocktails. Whether you're in the mood for a robust Cabernet Sauvignon or a classic martini, the restaurant's knowledgeable staff is on hand to guide you through the perfect pairing for your meal.
Cafe Tiramisu serves authentic Italian food. A family-run restaurant, the interiors are decorated with colorful paintings. The menu of pastas and salads are prepared from the finest of ingredients. Traditional recipes with a modern touch is what works for this place. The bar menu is extensive and service is quick and friendly. Outdoor seating will make your dining experience more pleasurable. If you do not like waiting, booking is recommended because the restaurant tends to get full during peak hours.