Dram &amp; Draught

https://www.theinfatuation.com/raleigh/guides/best-restaurants-raleigh-north-carolina

132,814 Postcards · 3,234 Cities

The 9 Best Restaurants & Bars In Raleigh, North Carolina 2024

"With its selection of several hundred whiskeys, Dram & Draught is one of the city’s best cocktail bars. Cap any night out downtown, especially a date night at Cortez, by snagging a seat at the crowded bar to enjoy their Old Fashioned with barrel-aged bourbon, a PBR boilermaker special, or even a more elaborate cocktail like the Hellfire Club with jalapeño and Sichuan peppercorn-infused tequila. Even if you’re not drinking right now, it’s worth a stop—their spirit-free cocktails are made with as much care as the boozy ones." - eric ginsburg

Anna Barzin

https://carolinas.eater.com/2023/12/18/24006040/2023-top-restaurants-stand-by-carolinas

391,688 Postcards · 10,992 Cities

2023’s Top Restaurant Standbys for the Carolinas | Eater Carolinas

"A place reviewers mentioned as a reliable source for spirits and well-curated drink options." - Eater Staff

https://www.theinfatuation.com/raleigh/reviews/dram-and-draught

132,814 Postcards · 3,234 Cities

Dram and Draught - Review - North Boylan - Raleigh - The Infatuation

"With its selection of several hundred whiskeys, Dram & Draught is one of the city’s best cocktail bars. Cap any night out downtown, especially a date night at Cortez, by snagging a seat at the crowded bar to enjoy their Old Fashioned with barrel-aged bourbon, a PBR boilermaker special, or even a more elaborate cocktail like the Hellfire Club with jalapeño and Sichuan-infused tequila. Even if you’re not drinking right now, it’s worth a stop—their spirit-free cocktails are made with as much care as the booze-filled ones." - Eric Ginsburg

Infatuation - Reviews

https://carolinas.eater.com/maps/best-raleigh-cocktail-bars

391,688 Postcards · 10,992 Cities

Raleigh Best 12 Cocktail Bars Open Right Now | Eater Carolinas

"Another nod to Raleigh’s affinity for brown liquor, Dram & Draught is one of the city’s premier whiskey bars (it also has locations in Durham and Greensboro). There is an extensive list of cocktails featuring seasonal creations, house favorites, and twists on classic cocktails, as well as wine and zero-alcohol creations. For those wanting to sample from Dram & Draught’s extensive whiskey list there is a flight with a choice of three one-ounce pours from the selections." - Matt Lardie

Dram & Draught

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

A Glenwood South institution with 300+ whiskeys, sharp seasonal cocktails, and a rolling-ladder backbar. Consistently named Best Overall by Raleigh Magazine, it blends neighborhood warmth with serious spirits know-how until 2 a.m.

https://raleighmag.com/2025/01/best-bars-2024/

Best Bars in Raleigh (2025)

W M.

Google

Dram & Draught in downtown Raleigh, was highly regarded spot to me for drink enthusiasts, boasting an impressive selection of over 300 whiskeys, hand-crafted cocktails, local and regional draft beers (which I like to try), and a variety of wines. Reviews and word of mouth praise its diverse drink menu, catering to whiskey fanatics, craft beer lovers, and cocktail enthusiasts alike. The bar’s location makes it a convenient stop for locals and visitors. The atmosphere is described as lively yet classy, with a backlit wall of spirits creating an upscale vibe and outdoor seating ideal for date nights. The layout is relaxed and accessible, I was greeted with quick, friendly service from knowledgeable bartenders. Overall, Dram & Draught earns strong must visit for its drink variety, ambiance, and service, making it a top choice for a chill night out in downtown Raleigh.

ANITA A.

Google

We love checking this place out regularly. Great cocktails with knowledgeable outgoing bartenders. More polished and refined atmosphere than usual in Glenwood South bars. Love finding out what bottle is the "at cost pour of the day" on Sundays or having a night cap cocktail there after dinner date Saturday.

Tayler T

Google

Really great selection of whiskeys and delicious (if limited) mocktails! Skip the pretzels though 😅 Service was great and very attentive!

Christina H.

Google

We really enjoyed our drinks here! Great, unique cocktails! Cool bar for sure!

Hector David R.

Google

This is truly a fantastic bar. Excellent drinks with unique and sophisticated flavors. I can see why they have won best bar in Raleigh 5 years running. I tried 4 different drinks, all great, but the best was the Dram Swizzle. Highly recommended.

dan S.

Google

This place won best cocktail bar from Raleigh Magazine for good reason. Knowledgeable bartenders working cocktail magic putting together a delicious collection of house cocktails and anything else you can think of. The menu is very descriptive and makes easy to pick new drinks and flavors you might not have thought to try otherwise. We’ve been in here a few times and the drinks are always great. We’ve had three different bartenders, two super friendly, one kinda grumpy and aloof but still a solid cocktail maker. Dram is not my favorite Raleigh cocktail bar but it’s one of them, they are certainly making some of Raleigh’s best cocktails, and the Old Fashioned from their barrel bourbon might be Raleigh’s best standard Old Fashioned.

Nik K.

Google

Beautiful bar that’s quieter in downtown Raleigh. Indoor and outdoor seating. Service was outstanding. Kaylin gave us wonderful drink recommendations and excellent service.

Diana B.

Google

A place that is worth visiting. My husband and I ordered Barrel of Monkeys and D&D private barrel old fashioned. The drinks were good but would not order again. We asked the bartender if he can make us Manhattans and he even gave his recommendations with which rye whiskey it would taste the best. And he was right, the drinks were excellent. Place itself was cozy, had tables and bar seating. It was quite busy, and only one bartender making all the drinks. Bartender was very professional and even though it was busy, he was able to have conversations with some customers. I will be back to visit this bar again and would recommend my friends to visit it too.

Cameron K.

Yelp

10/10 professional and amazing... I would highly recommend. This bar is exactly what youre looking for.

Lily F.

Yelp

Really enjoyed the music and vibes here, as well as the quick service. It's always nice when a bar has purse hooks for you too! My aunt enjoyed her drinks. We want to come back here soon. I ordered a non alcoholic bubblegum cocktail, and maybe this is personal preference and taste but it smelled a little strange and tasted well.. also strange. I kept going back to drink it, thinking I just needed to get used to it, but I never did. Regardless, I thought the drink was super cute.

Austin Y.

Yelp

FIRE ambiance. This spot is super classy--the kind of place you go when you're feeling fancy. The wall of backlit bottles looks amazing. If you're in the mood to sip drinks in a vibey, upscale setting, this is your spot. I got the Galileo, Figaro, and it was actually really good. It's got this nutty taste with lemon, gin, brown sugar, and fig--honestly, a killer combo. A little on the sour side, but it balanced out really well. Highly recommend giving it a try! The bartender was a vibe as well :) Definitely a place I'd come back.

Kristi B.

Yelp

We stopped by on a Monday evening around 7 o'clock for a cocktail. This location has a huge selection of bourbon and whiskey to choose from as well as other liquors, such as scotch and gin. My husband opted for their old fashion, which is made with their single barrel Elijah Craig. It was his first time trying Elijah Craig, and overall not his favorite bourbon to have an old-fashioned. I opted for the PB and julep, which had Woodford reserve, strawberry purée peanut butter cream, and it literally tasted like a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. It definitely was very creamy so if creamy liquors are not your thing I would not recommend the drink, but overall the flavor was amazing. They have outside seating as well as inside. It was fairly steady when we got there, but emptied out pretty quickly.

Ashley P.

Yelp

Super sexy for date night I enjoyed the outside seating and the honey bee drink!! The bartenders didn't really give recommendations but didn't point us around the menu.

Shanelle Y.

Yelp

Came here for the first time a few months ago with a friend to grab a drink before a concert. It wasn't too busy when we came so we had no trouble finding a seat. I was a bit overwhelmed by the menu so I asked the bartender for recommendations and ended up choosing the small axe. The drink had a sweet and smoky flavor and it was unlike anything I'd ever tasted before, super unique and delicious! Overall I had a great experience, the bartenders were friendly, the drinks were great, and atmosphere was lively but not overwhelming. I plan to check out the Cary and Durham locations sometime!

Kaylah N.

Yelp

This place is too cute! The music was amazing (Beyoncé, Frank Ocean, Sza) and the drinks are very creative. I got a Prosecco with spiced apple syrup for the holidays

Christopher D.

Yelp

What a cool place! Very modern setting with shelves stacks almost to the ceiling with bottles, most of it whiskey. They even have their own private barrel of Elijah Craig on tap! The bartender was super personable and walked me through his personal recommendations for pours. We had a great time and would definitely come back next time we're in Raleigh.

Byron U.

Yelp

I didn't have food there but the drinks are really good. I had the campfire delight, very similar to an espresso martini! The vibes are chill, music is reasonable volumes and you can still talk to your friends without yelling. Good customer service as well. Table service!!

Kristine U.

Yelp

My boyfriend and I finally visited this bar on Saturday night and we had a great time. The drinks are very well made and strong. The bartenders were friendly and we loved the vibe, music and decor. I ordered the Guimauve Carre', which tasted like a boozy campfire, and the Private barrel Old Fashioned. I can't wait to return.

Falan E.

Yelp

Visited late at night while I waited on Insomnia cookies nearby. I ordered a kettle one with club soda, which was pretty good. The service here is fast. The bar area and seating are plentiful. The lighting inside was dim, and I heard a variety of music while I was there. There is street parking which was pretty easy on a Friday evening. #ThankYouThursday

Monae S.

Yelp

On our voyage back to our hotel, we noticed dram and draught right across the street. As a whiskey lover I had to partake as I could have a few and just walk over to our room after. The inside was nice and the tables were well spread apart so we decided to go indoors. I was In awe of all the options and was delighted to try a flight. Our server was very helpful in assisting me in finding flights that matched my taste. We opted not to get food as this was just a nightcap after dinner. I was able to settle on just a few from the hundreds of options they offered. I was able to find one I was very fond of and have a great experience while trying new things. My friends just grabbed a beer to accompany me In My experiments. We were treated very well. The atmosphere was amazing as you could tell only the serious whiskey drinkers came to this place. I felt at home. Looking forward to going back.

Morena G.

Yelp

I love the Greensboro location and was intrigued to visit the one in Raleigh. During a weekend visit to a friend, we decided to include this bar to our bar hopping experience on a Saturday night. We were not disappointed by the drinks and excellent service. The cocktails are always their signature specialty. Unfortunately, I can't remember the name of the cocktail in this pic but it was delicious as usual. I look forward to stop by the next time I visit the capital!

Brittney M.

Yelp

This place is IT! The drinks were some of the most well-balanced cocktails we've ever had. But the absolutely best was the service from Serena. She is the best bartender in the triangle and makes the visit to Dram worth it! Ensure to try one of her mystery shots

Rachel W.

Yelp

There is a unique selection of tasty beverages at this location, along with a laid-back, welcoming vibe. Service was epic.

Jenny S.

Yelp

Great bar located conveniently across the street from our hotel! Cocktails and an amazing selection of whiskies for the hubby! We really enjoyed coming as a couple and as a group Everytime we were at Dram and draught the hubby didn't want to leave

Victoria K.

Yelp

Our favorite place in Raleigh to get drinks. Great atmosphere to meet friends or a date. Not too loud and not too quiet.

Candi M.

Yelp

We are so thankful the patio seating has opened back up at Dram & Draught. We had A Boy Named Sue and the Chet Baker. Mine featured a delightful aged rum with fall flavors, and it was my first time having rum in a non-tiki themed cocktail. It was very seasonal and tasty. They have a pay by phone option with the scan of a QR code on the receipt making things even a little more contactless! If you love spirits, this is a must try spot for you!

Ariail L.

Yelp

My friend and I had a good experience. Cocktails were good, bartender was fun. They have zero food here (aside from snacks you can get out of a vending machine basically) which is a bit of a letdown. It's a good first date drink spot but not a super intimate, dark, moody vibes spot.

Kirsten V.

Yelp

This was one of the best experiences I've ever had at a cocktail bar. Duke was an amazing server! Very informational and charismatic. He had great recommendations and a very nice smile. I had the small axe and the private smoked old fashioned. Some of the best drinks I've ever tasted and very well balanced.

Tresa W.

Yelp

Every time we come here, we love the drinks, but the bartenders seem to be crabby, or could care less. Half the fun of coming to a cocktail place is watching the bartender make your drink, even maybe Smalltalk sometimes but every time we've come here the bartender seems crabby. We love the space and the ambience but the bartenders seem like they'd rather be somewhere else. I gave it three stars for the drinks took away two stars for lackluster bartenders and my husband agrees with me. We would be here every weekend and it wouldn't hurt the bartender to smile once in a while, or at least act like he wants to be there.

Drew S.

Yelp

Wonderful cocktails, over 400 whiskeys, it is the place to go to enjoy a great bar experience!

Ron W.

Yelp

Dram and Draught's move into a new space at One Glenwood is complete and they are now open! There's a lot of similarities, same great selection of whiskey, casual guy-friend ambiance along with a good patio. But the space is WAY bigger and more modern with that brand spanking new smell. I'm not a huge bar guy any more but the bartenders here are professional and know how to provide excellent service. I'd expect a slightly older, Raleigh crowd here since it's just far enough off the club strip. Come out here on a date, bring some friends or just hang out solo. Dram & Draught will take care of all your libation needs!

Free R.

Yelp

The dude working yesterday (super chill Monday) was helpful in helping us find new exciting drinks. He also educated us about various whiskeys and bourbons. His drinks and conversation was top tier. Definitely going back when in Raleigh NC

Merovingian X.

Yelp

Awful!! Worst service ever. Insulting and rude staff. Management didn't care about accommodating our party.

John U.

Yelp

Came in this evening with a business group and was rudely told that we were not their type of customer. When we asked why we were told that our party was "too big" even though there were plenty of open tables.

Kaitlyn K.

Yelp

Their cocktails are phenomenal and the staff is so sweet. Their liquor wall is impressive. Looking forward to going back!

Mike T.

Yelp

Fun cocktail bar in Raleigh. The drink menu is great and the bartenders are nice. Typically a less crowded environment to hang out and enjoy a drink

Dave H.

Yelp

Great ambiance and great drinks. The private label old fashion was delicious. The Bobby Babylon was tasty too, with fired grapefruit and cinnamon

Rose A.

Yelp

Martini tasted like salt water and not cold martinis should be cold.. I took it like a shot. Super gross.

Chip R.

Yelp

Bottom line: Dram and Draught is the whiskey/bourbon bar that does more than whiskey/bourbon, a lot more. Great craft beer and cocktail selections, impressive atmosphere/venue, and good service. I find it a nice place to relax with a drink or two, I am a fan! The Deets: I've hit Dram and Draught a couple of times recently, and I've liked what I found. D&D is in a wide open type venue with large garage doors...when they are up, it is a true open garage type of feeling. I dig that. The outside/inside blend great and almost seamless, cool concept. The rough unfinished look of the walls give way to the very back of D&D where is a very nicely crafted bar area, nice contrast. Along the wall of the bar you see an amazing amount of liquor types displayed for your drinking pleasure and it's a pretty impressive collection. These guys are mainly known for their whisky/bourbon selection but they have most everything in the liquor spectrum it looks like. They combine that with a great offering of different craft beers/cider, so they about cover it all. Along with their impressive cocktail menu, these guys bring it. I find it a great place to chill. The bartenders have been attentive and knowledgeable, thumbs up. Dram and Draught will continue to see me in the future, I like this place!

Reiko H.

Yelp

The new location of Dram and Draught is really nice. I've always liked the way they make their cocktails. Great selection of whiskey, good old fashion, and friendly service. There is a parking garage right across the street, so parking is not hard to find. This place can get crowded, but getting a drink is not a problem. They have runners who brings you water and take drinks order when you can't get to the bar. Great place for a drink.

Jim A.

Yelp

Top notch whiskey bar with great atmosphere. Unbelievable selection, especially the Scotch Whisky. Cocktail selection and preparation great. Nice selection of Beer on Tap. Indoor/Outdoor seating with garage door front makes for open spaciousness. Nice live music. Great place to hang out with friends and just enjoy.

Stephanie J.

Yelp

Loved Dram and Draught! Chill spot with knowledgable bartenders and fantastic cocktails. I was able to try the Farmer's Fizz and 2800 Small Jobs, both were wonderful choices. If you love whiskey, draft beers and cocktails this is the place for you.

Seana C.

Yelp

A very laid back and well stocked bar at the quieter end of Glenwood. We stopped in for a drink after dinner and I'm very glad we did! I had the Nellie Jackson which is one of their signature cocktails that drew me in because it had pistachio orgeat. It was delicious! We only had one drink, so we definitely need to go back and try some more.

Kristin F.

Yelp

Great drinks and staff. Always a great place to grab a drink and catch up with a friend.

Val M.

Yelp

Pletty cool place to hang out of Friday or Saturday night. Nice atmosphere, awesome variety of drinks and friendly stuff.

Jordan E.

Yelp

They were out of a lot of the whiskey listed on the menu, but gave good replacement recommendations. I really enjoyed the vibe and would recommend it for others to try out.

Lauren V.

Yelp

LOVE love love this bar. We've only done drinks to-go thus far because of the pandemic, but can't wait to hang out here when we're both vaccinated. I particularly love getting a surprise drink by the bartender here.

Tricity A.

Yelp

I stopped in here the other night for cocktails with my boyfriend. Cocktails were reasonably priced and it also looked like they had a good beer menu. I had a Tequila Mockingbird that featured tequila (obviously), strawberry puree, syrup, jalapeño juice and a mint leaf (I probably forgot something). It had a nice kick to it, but not too much, and I really liked it. My boyfriend had a manhattan, and it was probably the first manhattan that I've actually liked. Overall, I'd say it's a good place to grab a drink with a small number of friends.

Ronnie C.

Yelp

Terribly rude bartender. Poured sour all over me while I was sitting at the bar and didn't apologize. Then proceeded to talk in a condescending manner.

Hannah M.

Yelp

My friends and I were so excited to try Dram and Draught tonight for drinks before our plans this evening - it did not disappoint! Dram and Draught had an excellent selection of summer cocktails and craft beer and it also has an amazing whiskey selection, there is something for everyone to drink. I really enjoyed our cocktail experience here, the bartender was even willing to make me a speciality drink with Applejack Brandy. My boyfriend and I and our friends will definitely be back!

Chavonna B.

Yelp

With an extra bartender on hand to ensure a lil' less wait time for service and a better parking situation, the fifth star will be earned. Outside of that had a nice time at Dram and Draught with my boo. Enjoyed the eclectic interior and organized wall of spirits. The drinks are your typical average southern city prices, not too outrageous and the bartender on hand was crafty in a good way with his drink mixing. They boasted clean and modern bathrooms complete with hooks for a ladies purse (bonus!). Nice place to get together with friends to enjoy some drinks inside or on the lovely outside patio area especially now in the fall.

Mari M.

Yelp

They really do have the most delicious cocktails in Raleigh. I love that the menu changes seasonally and I'm always hard pressed to pick because they all sound so great. I'm really enjoying all the summer cocktails that have wildflower honey as an ingredient. I don't usually love super sweet cocktails so the honey is perfect and you can really taste the flavor of the honey rather than just a generic sweet/sugar type of flavor. Also love those tiny little reusable metal straws and how beautiful the drinks are!

Johnnie N.

Yelp

If you want to try a great whiskey from ANY area before you buy it, this is the place to go!

Justin R.

Yelp

Love this place for a nice cocktail. Their selection of tequila is top notch. This is a great place for a quick date or after dinner drink.

Mike T.

Yelp

Stopped in last night and was really impressed with both the whiskey/bourbon selection and the vibe in the place. There are some suggested drinks but they also offer flights so I was able to try several bourbons. The place is very relaxed and the staff was friendly. We will be back.

Travis W.

Yelp

For roughly two years, right before walking into work, I would listen to the George Brett story of him crapping his pants at The Bellagio in Vegas because he got food poisoning from crab legs at a steakhouse. I still periodically watch it and I cry laughing every time. Anyway, drinks are great here.

Allison B.

Yelp

Love love love Enough said Unbelievable bourbon, whiskey and scotch selection I would recommend this place anytime

https://www.theinfatuation.com/raleigh/guides/best-restaurants-raleigh-north-carolina

132,814 Postcards · 3,234 Cities

The 9 Best Restaurants & Bars In Raleigh, North Carolina 2024

Anna Barzin

https://carolinas.eater.com/2023/12/18/24006040/2023-top-restaurants-stand-by-carolinas

391,688 Postcards · 10,992 Cities

2023’s Top Restaurant Standbys for the Carolinas | Eater Carolinas

"A place reviewers mentioned as a reliable source for spirits and well-curated drink options." - Eater Staff

https://www.theinfatuation.com/raleigh/reviews/dram-and-draught

132,814 Postcards · 3,234 Cities

Dram and Draught - Review - North Boylan - Raleigh - The Infatuation

"With its selection of several hundred whiskeys, Dram & Draught is one of the city’s best cocktail bars. Cap any night out downtown, especially a date night at Cortez, by snagging a seat at the crowded bar to enjoy their Old Fashioned with barrel-aged bourbon, a PBR boilermaker special, or even a more elaborate cocktail like the Hellfire Club with jalapeño and Sichuan-infused tequila. Even if you’re not drinking right now, it’s worth a stop—their spirit-free cocktails are made with as much care as the booze-filled ones." - Eric Ginsburg

Infatuation - Reviews

https://carolinas.eater.com/maps/best-raleigh-cocktail-bars

391,688 Postcards · 10,992 Cities

Raleigh Best 12 Cocktail Bars Open Right Now | Eater Carolinas

Dram & Draught

@postcardnews

22,027 Postcards · 1,950 Cities

https://raleighmag.com/2025/01/best-bars-2024/

Best Bars in Raleigh (2025)