My type of ominous basement cocktail bar. It was tucked away off the sidewalk down some stairs, illuminated by the red Foundation light.
Dimly lit stone/brick walls with some awesome local artwork throughout. Hefty selection of bottles. I was striking out with too-sweet cocktails throughout my road trip and finally caught a strong old fashioned! The bartender nailed it. Add it to you late night craft cocktail stop.
You might not find this on a list of best cocktail bars, but it should be listed. The cocktail menu isn’t super long, but the bourbon and whisky list is fantastic. And the bartenders are great and personable. Turns into a local vibe later at night when other industry people get off work.
Loved this spot! The drinks were strong, atmosphere was dark and mysterious and the bartenders were knowledgeable and happy to answer all our questions about their featured drinks.
Such a cute vibe! The place is cute and cozy and great for conversations! Had the best cocktail too and wonderful service!
What a neat place! We got a round of drinks here. The atmosphere was fun and the staff was super friendly!
This is a bit hidden and you wouldn’t know it was there if not for the tables outside. Go down the stairs into the bar space that has a great feel- to include exposed brick walls.
Creative craft cocktails and there is a constant flow of people in and out- if you are at a table- just share. The cocktails are delicious and you can expect to see one’s that are outside the norm. I love that they always ID (at the top of the stairs) even when there is no question as to legal ability to drink.
Megan (IG: magnoliamegan)
+5
Such a cool hidden gem! This bar is built in the basement, and gives a dark and moody private setting as soon as you enter. To find it, look for the red neon sign at ground level + take the steps down! The exposed brick gives it a very speakeasy vibe and the drinks do not disappoint. They are known for their Old Fashioned but they also have a unique variety of craft cocktails!
TIP: arrive early on the weekends because there will be a line or be prepared to wait! (But it’s worth it)
The drinks are phenomenal and it’s such a cool vibe. They really take a lot of pride in their drinks and it shows. I got a Kinky So & So and it was delightful and refreshing (I like sweeter cocktails, which aren’t really their specialty…but it’s amazing). Plus, I always feel like I’m in a 1920s speakeasy whenever I go there. One of my favorite little haunts in downtown Raleigh!
By far one of the best craft cocktail bars on my go-to list for 2023.
The bartender quickly noticed us and cleared our table as people left.
I felt an exclusive hidden gem vibe. Very small and intimate. Extremely fitting for the spaces I enjoy.
Foundation is tucked away downstairs in a basement-like space.
Very easy to overlook.
We dropped in for a nightcap.
I ordered The Eastside as the bartender suggested. Very good. The bartenders are top-tier and highly experienced. All around good drinks and laid back atmosphere where I enjoyed being in the moment, so much so that I forgot to snap a photo of the menu. It appeared to change, as there were many specialty craft cocktail options. I look forward to coming back soon.
The world class bartenders are extremely knowledgeable. The extensive, specialty menu has a bourbon for everyone, and other offerings if you are in the mood for something else.b8 enjoyed the cucumber Collins very much.
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