The Blind Barbour

If your idea of a good time includes an expertly crafted cocktail or a perfect pour from a knowledgeable bartender, then the Blind Barbour is the place for you. My favorite is the spicy Tom Yum. Located in an unassuming location with a small cozy feel, this is definitely one of,if not, the best bars in Raleigh. They never disappoint!

Our son and DIL lead our group of 6 to The Blind Barbour and Oh My!! The vibe gets you at the door. The service=fantastic. They care about their craft. Let your fav spirit be your guide and pick! Cannot wait to get back!

Honestly one of the best whiskey bars I’ve ever experienced. They have tons of barrel picks and allocated bourbons. Best of all the bartenders are extremely knowledgeable, personable, and make some of the most magnificent cocktails I’ve ever had. Prices are fair and best of all it’s a relatively quiet, peaceful bar tucked away in a quieter part of Raleigh. 12/10 recommend!

Very small and cute speakeasy. Service and drinks were great. I'll definitely check them out again when im back in Raleigh.

Great cocktails. Staff is awesome 👌🏼. Nice prices for the quality of drinks. It's definitely a place that you will visit more than once

Blind Barbour is a very cool cocktail bar in a random part of Raleigh. It is hidden in a random strip mall. Very classy inside with some seating at the bar with a few booths. Their whiskey/bourbon selection is vast, ranging from rail to super top shelf. They have a good amount of cocktails to choose from as well. We noticed a small fire pit in the back with some seating as well, a nice touch. Definitely going back here.

SHoCKeD this place is not on everyone’s list of best cocktail bars in raleigh. A true hidden gem. I’m hesitant to post this review because I want it to stay a secret. Excellent cocktails of n menu but they are also amazing at the for menu originals if you tell them what you like. Two originals below from smalls . “I’m Jeff” and “don’t worry about it“

Excellent whiskey selection and excellent service last night. We told the bartender we were heading out for a steakhouse after departing. The bartender suggested we try a "Pittsburgh Steak," which apparently is a cooking method and not a cut of beef. Excellent recommendation! Thank you!

What a cool and eclectic cocktail bar parked away in an non disclosed neighborhood shopping center. When we went by, I thought it was closed because it was so dark. The bar is really cool and they have an extensive menu of Bourbons and Whiskies. They do have specialty cocktails as well as wine and beer on tap. If I remember right the bartender said they have "at cost" bourbon bottle openings on the first Monday of the month, which is pretty neat (no pun intended). It's a nice spot to hangout and grab an after dinner drink. Definitely check them out on Instagram!

Smalls is the only reason I came tonight. Never get rid of him. Wonderful experience as always

Bartenders are amazing, Inventive cocktails and classics done to perfection. Bar has the speakeasy feel that just makes you want to enjoy a cocktail. One of the best cocktail bars in Raleigh but off the beaten path so you don't have to deal with finding parking.

We love the BB! Within walking distance in the neighborhood, a true local watering hole. Excellent cocktails and bourbon selection,we are big fans of Smalls! Kind of a no frills atmosphere on the inside but super nice people - patrons and staff!

Stopped in later on a Monday for a post dinner cocktail. This place is located in a mostly abandoned shopping center in what felt like a neighborhood, so that threw me off a bit. Walking in, it's like being transported to classy speakeasy in a big city. It wasn't crowded at all, so we were greeted by the bartender and he was really attentive. We looked over the extensive menu and selected cocktails. I had You're Killing Me Smalls, and it was really good. There's a little sweetness but not overwhelming. I wish I lived closer! Would love to work my way through the extensive bourbon menu.

Blind Barbour is a delightful and serene bar, perfect for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere. Located in a quiet corner, this bar offers a tranquil setting to unwind and enjoy your favorite drink. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, with dim lighting and comfortable seating. The staff is friendly and attentive, ensuring a pleasant experience. Whether you're meeting friends or looking for a quiet place to relax, Blind Barbour is the ideal spot to enjoy a peaceful evening.

My boyfriend and I had a great time here on Saturday night. We popped in after dinner and sat outside at one of the fire pit tables. The bartender was very friendly and knowledgeable and he helped my boyfriend choose (2) outstanding bourbons that weren't super pricy. My first cocktail was the BOB - bourbon over bourbon. It was an elevated Manhattan and I loved it. My second drink was a whiskey sour, and that drink was also incredible. Water was provided to cleanse our palates and we appreciated that. It was so nice and relaxing to just chill by the fire and sip our amazing drinks! We are looking forward to our next visit.

Stopped by while visiting family in NC. This place was surprisingly awesome! The proprietor was behind the bar and made us two rounds of tasty whiskey based cocktails and engaged in fun conversation. Great vibe, selection, music. I hope to come back the next time in town! Delicious speakeasy cocktails in an unpretentious, welcoming setting.

This place is a stellar little bar hidden in an old strip mall. I came here this week for birthday drinks with a friend and was pleasantly surprised to find a bar so close to our home that I had never heard of. When you walk in you are instantly greeted. It's more spacious than it inside. I really enjoyed how creative each cocktail was, but my personal favorite was the tom yum which had a fun spice to it. If you haven't been here yet, I would strongly suggest you do soon! There is an extensive drink menu here as well as great music and even better hospitality .

Incredible drinks!! The bar tender is knowledgeable and funny and it a classic, dark wood speak easy feel.

Do not be fooled by the exterior... this bar is amazing. Like amazzzzzzzing drinks. Great convo at the bar, great selection of high end bourbon/ whiskey. Bartender is on point, drinks are super quality. Everything you want in a bar and more.

The Blind Barbour is one of the only places still standing in that area, but that just gives everyone who visits more room to park;) The atmosphere is great. You could come here to catch up with friends or have date night drinks. Our bartender was awesome. Very knowledgeable. Answered any and all questions we had. The cocktails we ordered were delicious! We are already looking forward to coming back to check out some of their other signature drinks. Cheers!

The Blind Barbour ranks in the top 3 of my favorite cocktail bars around the area. The cocktails here are fantastic, my personal favorite's are the Porch Swing (this was the first visit) and the City of SmOAK (my most recent visit). The bartenders are always knowledgeable and friendly. This spot is a must visit.

Love this bar so much. If you are looking for a hidden gem stop by this spot. The drinks are great, the service is amazing and it is the ideal small cozy bar you've been dreaming of.

Great vibe here. Low key, fantastic bourbon list. Overall super cool place to hang out.

The best little whisky bar I've ever been to. Amazing selection of whisky, bourbon and scotch I've ever seen at a bar. Additionally the owner of the bar personally came over to take our orders and continued to check on our service throughout. Don't let the location fool you. You absolutely need to go here.

So glad my friend discovered this place and brought us. All I have to say is... Great music + beautiful bar area + lovely atmosphere + tall wooden booths that allow for some privacy + well made drinks + cool bartenders = 5 stars for me. My El Coyote (El Jimador Tequila, Green Chartreuse, cinnamon, strawberry preserves, lime) was great. I took my time sipping it over two and a half hours. Will be back very soon! Taste | 5 Atmosphere | 5 Presentation | 4 Service | 5 OVERALL | 5

YES. And thank you. After my friend and I weren't quite ready for our girls' night to end, I sat in my car thinking to myself, "I really want to go have a whiskey but I don't want to go to a loud downtown bar." Thanks to Yelp, I found The Blind Barbour and it was exactly what I would have created in my mind if I could have imagined a perfect place to enjoy an hour of whiskey and easy conversation (rather than shouting over music and Millennials). Our bartender was knowledgeable, not pushy, not snobby, and had the best accent. He chatted with us a bit, and also left us alone. He's got the fine art of tending bar mastered. Friendly, but not all up in your business. While we were there, there was a pretty steady (but small) stream of people stopping in to enjoy drinks and company. Everyone seemed nice and laid-back, and not into "the scene", whatever that is. Basically, if you want a loud, bustling bar full of pretty people trying to impress one another, don't go here. If you are a normal human being 'of a certain age' and you enjoy a good variety of Bourbon and Whiskey, whether a novice or whiskey expert, this is your place.

I feel so at home here! My family and I go occasionally and every time we're there, we are appropriately greeted, have amazing cocktails, have a fabulous time, learn a ton about many drinks (and wine and food). The atmosphere is warm, quiet, quaint and cozy. The quality of the cocktails they make are top notch. This place is a true gem that we never get tired of! Thank you guys!

An unexpected surprise. The Blind Barbour is an exceptionally amazing experience. The owner and staff are extremely friendly and the vibe is very chillax. Will definitely be back regularly.

I've been having this place bookmarked to check out for a while now so it was funny when the person I met here for drinks one night mentioned also wanting to try it. We met on a Friday about 3 weeks ago and ever since, I've been wanting to return. Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised that it wasn't in a strip mall with 15 other stores yet has ample parking in a shared lot. The actual bar is quaint but, somehow, still feels roomy. Maybe because I was immediately greeted which added to the warm feeling. If you like whiskey or bourbon, you'll feel at home because there are PLENTY of options. If I'm not having something neat, I'm a craft cocktail kinda girl and the B.O.B. (which included a flamed orange peel) was perfectly right up my alley. So good! Joey, our bartender and owner, made great suggestions for other drinks based on our palette preferences. Really knowledgeable and cool guy. Can't wait to go back soon!

Unsure how this place is not as well-known, but it is A true neighborhood bar with top right cocktails and an amazing bourbon selection.

Just left. I'm a fan! I'd come back here and so should you. I'm looking right at you, John! Great conversation, personable and knowledgeable bartender, even better drink! I had the B.O.B. Bourbon over bourbon. Delish! Nice and boozy, a little sweet which I loved, and great orange aromatics on the nose. What really set it off was that the bartender was gracious enough to let me taste the nocciola (Austrian or Italian walnut liquor) and it was to die for. Plus 1 point for the man. I would get The Law next time, simply because I got to taste the nocciola. So good! The space is small and intimate. It got a little loud with a full house so you'll have to get closer to your date to get your point across. Also, it's dark and moody in here. Small it may be, but sexy it is. I thought the price was a little high. I've hit 4 cocktail bars in 4 different towns in the last week and they're usually $10-$11.....even in Charlotte. But, I still ain't knocking it down. I like this joint. It's got a cool vibe. Gotta get that nocciola!!!!! Tell 'em Sam sent you!

WOW! Had a great time, super tasty drinks. This is coming from a non whiskey drinker. Attentive service. Creative drinks. Exceptional bartender.

This place is pretty awesome. We came here from Atlanta after catching a show at the nearby Ritz Raleigh, and the drinks + service ads top notch. The bartender is very knowledgeable and friendly as well. Makes you feel like home. Everything he's recommenced has been good and the atmosphere is friendly and comfortable. Easy pick for a good time with solid drinks and service.

This place was amazing!! My fiancé and I were visiting Raleigh for the day and decided to stop by here to grab a drink. We were not disappointed. The atmosphere was relaxing and just great. The Barman was nice and helpful with the drink selection. He was also very personable and crafty. I got two mixed drinks that were equally delicious in their own way. The first one was the B.O.B and the second was a margarita with a twist. If I had to chose between the two which I enjoyed the most it would be the margarita. It is no exaggeration when I say this drink sneaks up on you and gives you a lil slap lol.

The Blind Barbour has everything you'd want in a whiskey bar - strong and refined drinks, classic and rustic decor, cool and attentive bartenders, and a little bit of that pre-Prohibition speakeasy vibe. I've tried a simple whiskey sour and the Crooked Agent cocktail (bourbon, aperol, lime, strawberry preserves, ginger beer), and both were delicious. The bar is in an unassuming suburban strip mall, but don't let the random location deter you. This spot is a local gem!

A nice bar with a great whiskey selection and awesome bartenders. Their cocktails specials are amazing. My favorites are the Tropical Storm and Milan Melody.

Tried this neighborhood bar last night on a whim with some friends, and I think I've found a new favorite spot for cocktails and bourbon. The atmosphere was very relaxing and warm, which makes this place ideal for conversation over great drinks. Their selection of bourbons, whiskeys, ryes, scotch and everything else looked very extensive. My good friend was impressed they had multiple Hibiki whiskeys, and we both noted they had two Woodford Reserve master collections (one was the Cherry Wood, not sure about the other). And their list of specialty cocktails was impressive and equally delicious. The bartender, Nicole, was super friendly and welcoming. She was also very knowledgeable about the bar's extensive selection. Bottom line, I foresee us spending many nights at The Blind Barbour in the future.

The bartender is excellent at what he does. I felt out of place however after a while we chatted a bit and he suggested a spicy margarita which was delicious. Prior to the margarita I had the Bourbon over Bourbon and enjoyed that. This is a pricy joint so just be prepared however it's mostly worth it.

This bar may not be in the best location, but the drinks definitely make up for it. I tried two of their specialty cocktails and they were fantastic. Highly recommend this place to anyone who appreciates a creative and well made cocktail. Cocktail of choice: The B.O.B. (Bourbon Over Bourbon) The ambiance is great for date night or an evening out with friends. It has an old school, classy feel. If you're not a big liquor drinker, they also offer a selection of different beers and wine. If you can't seem to decide, just ask the bartender. She was very knowledgeable about their drinks and liquor. If you love whiskey and bourbon this place is the place for you!

Really unique place with a cool vibe and great selection of bourbon. I will definitely return.

This is an amazing whiskey bar. I want to move here from Atlanta just to go here. Superb selection, service and staff. They know what they're selling and can help you find the best choices. And there's plenty of parking.

Yes! Yes! Yes! As I'm moving closer to the West Raleigh/Edge of ITB area, my fiance and I wanted to start checking out bars that will be closer to home - we both had heard few, but spectacular reviews of the Blind Barbour, and to celebrate our house closing, we decided to check out the place. The Blind Barbour is definitely a neighborhood bar in all ways - located in a unassuming strip mall, the bar itself is dark and cozy, and the patrons who come in are all regulars. You can definitely tell that this bar is Joey's (the bartender/owner/whiskey pro) baby, and he and the patrons treat it as such. We had a great time asking him about the different types of whiskey they had, how they acquire it, and what we should drink next. I'm not a bourbon fan, but I had an incredible gin, fig, and lime drink (sin nombre), and the Raleigh Flip was also incredible. The sips bourbons and ryes I had were different than things I've tried before, and I loved how much attention we got in the experience. Now that we're closer, I look forward to frequenting this place more often.

Such a fun little spot for an after work drink, date night, or casual meet up with friends. Everyone is very welcoming, staff and customers!!

This is an outstanding small pub hidden on 3055 Medlin Drive. When you walk in, Joey (the owner) welcomes you and after the first visit - he will know your order without asking. This place is a throwback to the old time neighborhood bar, where everyone feels at home.

If you're looking for a great bourbon list, good music, and laid back atmosphere, this is it. The music on the night we went was just a guy with a guitar singing every song bars love to sing along to. We closed the place out which we never do, and I can't wait to go back when I'm back in Raleigh!

The place is a gem....these are by far the best original cocktails I ever had...I would recommend this place to anyone with a sophisticated palette y'all have fun tasting the carefully selected ingredients.

A beautiful bar with excellent cocktails and a more extensive list of bourbons than you can imagine. I especially recommend the Bridges Burned #3.

I absolutely loved this bar! Joey the owner is super friendly and helpful. I definitely plan on coming back here frequently!

So much fun sipping fancy cocktails at this relatively new spot tucked inside a neighborhood shopping area (across from Taste). Our barkeep, Joey, offered up suggestions for what to try next based on which flavors we liked -- which is exactly what the best mixologists do! We chatted with the other couple in the bar like they were old friends as we listened to Joey's music, it was like being in a cool living room. Joey even let us DJ for a hot second so he could hear some of our favorite songs. I tried the Full Bloom, the Porch Swing and one that Joey invented that we dubbed "the Jessperado" because it had a peppery kick. Joey mentioned they would start offering a meat/cheese board soon which I think is a great idea. Really memorable night!

Been here 3 times and always awesome. Last time I had too many BOBs! Bartender is nice and can make a good drink. In a crappy little shopping center but don't let that put you off. It's definitely worth the trip!

came here with a friend on a saturday evening when they opened and the ambiance was great, everything was well kept! Smalls was a very endearing guy!!

We had a blast last night at this hideaway gem. High end whiskey is there but so are other diverse liquors. The bar is a great place for drinks and meeting up w friends!

Amazing! This is a local gem. Local bar feel with amazing cocktails and a high class bourbon selection. Tonight was our first visit and both bartenders were very friendly and attentive. We had a "the Law" "el Coyote" and both were delicious and perfectly balanced. We also enjoyed conversation with other patrons and the bartenders. I loved the neighborhood feel almost as much as the delicious cocktails! We will return frequently, and you should check it out.

This place is simply outstanding. The bourbon selection is to die for. And, to top it off, the customer service is fantastic. I emailed the contact information on the website as I wanted to set up a special tasting for a close friend of mine who had just retired. As he is from Kentucky, he knows his bourbon. Joey responded immediately and recommended a flight of rare and vintage bourbons in my price range. Then, when we went to the Blind Barbour, the bartender walked us through the bourbons, describing each one in great detail. My friend loved it and it was the highlight of our night. We will definitely be back soon!

Excellent cocktails in a laid back atmosphere. The bartender is very knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. They do need more basic classic drinks on the menu but offer a wonderful selection of whiskeys and bourbons. A bigger cocktail menu would be great as well. We will definitely be back!

My favorite bar in the triangle. Smalls, the bartender is fantastic, and has an impressive liquor knowledge, especially with whiskey. Joey, the owner, is just awesome. Neighborhood gem.

I somehow brought 10 people to this bar during a work trip and picked up several hundred dollars worth of delicious, mouth watering beverages. Sooooo worth every dime!

Found this place on Yelp and though we'd go there for a cocktail after eating at a nearby restaurant. Right across the steer from Taste, another good restaurant so I'm familiar with the area. From the street it seemed a bit meh, but hey, we decided to give it a shot. And we're glad we did. The decor and vibe is pleasant, kinda speakeasy style in an unpretentious way, with upbeat and fun music playing, but not so loud you have to yell or even talk very loudly. It's small but there was one table left, so we snagged that. The bartenders are also the waiters, and in our case the gentleman was there quite quickly, was immediately very friendly, and he was clearly very knowledgeable about their extensive menu of whiskies and cocktails. We ordered two cocktails and a beer. The beer was a Kolsch, which is a very good crisp German beer served in the proper German glass style (I've been to Germany many times, so I was impressed by the attention to detail). One cocktail ordered by my friend was the Tootsie Roll. I expected a sickly sweet milky chocolate kind of thing which i would not like, but it was more like a 1920's cocktail and was actually not too sweet and nothing like what I expected (in a good way) other than it did taste like a Tootsie Roll but had the kinda old school punch of a cocktail made with simple, quality ingredients. The other cocktail, a BoB (Boubon on Bourbon) was their twist on a Old Fashioned, and was excellent. My only very minor niggle was I prefer Old Fashioned cocktails to have a piece of orange peel in the drink, which this did not have. The menu stated that it had flamed orange peel but I could not taste it (when done right, the orange peel being flamed spits a tiny amount of orange peel oil on the glass rim which tastes great - couldn't taste it here so I'm making an assumption it might have been an error). Having said that, it was still an excellent drink which I enjoyed very much so only take that as a niggle and nothing more. I'm sure I could have spoken up and it would have been dealt with but the three of us were having such a good conversation I didn't want to interrupt the flow. So, the key question - would I go back? Hell yes. I see me going there again for sure. I rated it 4 stars (if I could do 4.5 I would) only because of the BoB mentioned above. I will go back and update this review. My hunch is it will be updated to 5 stars. Enjoy!