Lennon B.
Yelp
There's plenty of places in Raleigh to get your pool fix, and believe me I've tried them all. No matter if you're just a casual player, an apa regular, or a bonafide shark--if you're in the area and looking to shoot some pool (or even just grab a drink), let me save you some time. Brass Tap is the place to go.
There aren't too many people who have walked through those doors more than twice without getting a handshake and introduction from the owner, Tony. This is a man that's committed to his customers and to running a top-notch business, and it extends to his staff. The bartenders are attentive and friendly, drink prices are fair with daily/monthly specials. They serve limited food menu but not a bad selection--hot dogs, sandwiches, personal pizzas, etc. Jukebox in the back, a pinball machine, and best of all, close to 20 9-foot tables and 4 coin ops.
9-ball tournaments seem to occur at least twice a week, with two nights a week also for APA and one night for Masters. Also various big tournaments and even championships played here. So obviously there are a lot of great players for anyone trying to cut their teeth against the best, but you get your fair share of casuals as well so don't feel intimidated if you aren't Johnny Archer or Ray Martin (incidentally, both friends of Brass Tap who have been known to drop by) and are just a regular guy like me who likes to drink beer and shoot pool with some buddies.
If you can gut through the Capital Blvd. traffic, you should give it a shot. You may just find yourself wanting to keep coming back each week like I did.