The Green Light

Was not expecting this "hidden" gem in a bar that was clearly closed to the public. I was greeted by a waiter who led me back to a bar behind a bookshelf. I was greeted more by the dim lights than by the bartender. But, once I was, I enjoyed my bent umbrella, which was way more citrusy than I thought it would be in a good way, and it was super smooth to sip and enjoy. I finished this while speaking to the bartender and a patron who was very kind. The bartender was very open and kind. He made me feel very comfortable and was so kind! My second drink was the "Apples and Allies," which reminded me of a spicier apple cider with rum. It was super smooth, warm, and easy to sip and sip! I would come back here for the drinks and atmosphere. Very chill and great drinks!

Me and my boyfriend went in here on a Saturday night. It seemed cool but we didn’t have time to experience much. Before we were allowed into the bar, we asked the woman with the clip board if we were allowed to bring in our beverages from the architect or if we would need to discard them—which we were happy to oblige. We were told that that wouldn’t be necessary and that we could bring our Architect drinks inside. After we were seated, a hostess came over and immediately kicked us out…for bringing in beverages from the architect. Beverages we were told we could bring in. When the waitress told us that we would have to leave because we brought in “outside drinks,” we tried to explain that we were told by staff we were allowed to bring them in but would be happy to get rid of them, we were rudely interrupted and again told to leave, which we did with zero fuss. It seemed like a cool bar, very disappointed we didn’t actually get to experience it. Quite frankly, it was a very embarrassing situation to be put in, and quite frustrating that the staff member was quick to kick us out when we not only were under the impression that we had followed the rules, but went out of our way to make sure we were in compliance BEFORE we went in. Staff making mistakes is understandable and not a problem; it’s a problem when we are held responsible for the mistakes of others, and then not heard out when we politely try to explain.

They got me. The lady at the Architect bar said I could get a drink at the other bar and pointed to the corner. I stood in front of the bathroom door, looking like a fool before a hist opened the bookcase to the speakeasy. Lol. What a pleasant surprise that I was glad to stumble upon. The drinks are pricey but they are special. Really, quite a nice little place to enjoy a cocktail and people watch out the window to the sidewalk below. Gotta check it out at least once.

Love the vibe and the fun staff. Great for group hangs, and casual small hangs. Definitely hard to get in to, because it is a popular speakeasy (behind an actual bookcase!) And only has about 5 tables. Located on the 2nd floor of The Architect.

Forever my go-to place for: taking out of town guests, date night, low key girls night, after dinner night cap, pre-dinner cocktail, or just a quiet respite right after your work day. I recommend coming during the week and early as it can get quite busy, crowded and loud. Very small space, tucked behind a bookcase, the cocktail list is always giving major craft vibes and nearly all of them can be adjusted based on preferences. Often, the bartender will give fantastic recommendations based on your preferences and desires. Speaking of staff, that's really my main reason for knocking off a star. The staff is either really great and or not. It feels like when I go, even when they're not busy, I either get a bartender that is engaging or ambivalent and bored.

This was my second time at this “secret” speakeasy. I came back because my first visit several years ago was amazing…full of mystery and unique craft cocktails in an intimate discreet venue. This visit was underwhelming. I booked a reservation for 5 weeks in advance. (The allure of this establishment is that you can’t just walk in; because of the size and nature of the venue.) The reservation process was easy and my reservation was confirmed. Having been to the establishment previously I knew somewhat what to expect. We waited outside the venue waiting for the green light to illuminate. It never did. A couple walking by paused by us and looked bewildered. They said they were looking for “green light” and I told them they had found it and asked if they had a reservation and they said they didn’t. They proceeded to go in and didn’t come out. I was surprised. Our party decided to also proceed (although the green light wasn’t it, or any light for that matter). The couple who just “walked in” were sitting at the bar enjoying their cocktails. We were escorted to a small table off to the side. While its a small venue and an intimate setting our table was way to small to accommodate 5 people. It took quite awhile for the waiter to come to the table and even longer to get drinks. Unfortunately the drink menu had not changed. Granted, the cocktails here are good, but since a number of years had passed since my previous visit I was hoping some new concoctions would be available. The others in the party who were here for the first time weren’t overly impressed. We had a few rounds and moved on. This visit wasn’t special and lacked the elements that were attractive which I experienced previously.

Now this is a speakeasy, not so easy to find the door but thanks to a little help it didn't take long to get in. One thing I like about these hidden gems, you they are not typically overcrowded and very personable. They also seem to hit the target on quality in every drink they serve. The Green Light is as comfortable as it gets, and the staff make sure of it. This is definitely a bar that will see us again. Cheers!

Whenever I visit Raleigh, I always stop here. It is always fun to bring friends here and introduce them to the American concept of a speakeasy. In addition to the unique atmosphere and unique entry to the bar, the staff are always very informed about their menu and are also open to crafting the perfect cocktail for you. It is a small space and lighting is very low. Perfect for a small group outing or a date. Not suitable for large groups. Definitely not the cheapest place in town, but if you are looking for a memorable experience, this is it.

Was not expecting this "hidden" gem in a bar that was clearly closed to the public. I was greeted by a waiter who led me back to a bar behind a bookshelf. I was greeted more by the dim lights than by the bartender. But, once I was, I enjoyed my bent umbrella, which was way more citrusy than I thought it would be in a good way, and it was super smooth to sip and enjoy. I finished this while speaking to the bartender and a patron who was very kind. The bartender was very open and kind. He made me feel very comfortable and was so kind! My second drink was the "Apples and Allies," which reminded me of a spicier apple cider with rum. It was super smooth, warm, and easy to sip and sip! I would come back here for the drinks and atmosphere. Very chill and great drinks!

We were in town visiting family and had dinner nearby - this was a big surprise treat after! I had no idea this existed and my Uncle was so excited to surprise me with this speakeasy. When they opened the door behind the hostess I think I almost yelled out loud - not even joking LOL. Super cool and unique spot - small but not too small. Bartender was really nice and the cocktails were OUT OF THIS WORLD. My husband said it was one of the best Moscow Mules he's ever had. I naturally went for a Bourbon cocktail and was VERY happy with my drink too. Highly recommend! Make sure you have a reservation because it can be pretty limited seating and you don't want to miss out. Cheers!

You guys! How awesome is this place! Green Light is the best kept secret in Raleigh and it's out of the bag if you have never heard of it before! It's a hidden bar behind a bookshelf that's a secret door! We had the Final Word and the Daisy and both we so good we had a few! Note: Do not attempt to go without reservations. The place is small, intimate and they will not have an open table. We had dinner at Sitti across the street since they do not serve food. Second time for me at Green Light House Speakeasy Raleigh NC and they do not disappoint! This time i got the Honey Rose. Their bartender Reed is great!

Very cool, low key speakeasy with delicious cocktails. Went right when they opened and it was nice and quiet and easy to get a seat

This place certainly has an authentic speakeasy vibe. The manager went above and beyond to accommodate our requests and also recommended a nice bar to go next after our drinks, he also offered to walk us there :) giving us a japanese hospitality experience. The cocktails could have been better, some of them lacked complexity.

We came on a Thursday evening, and it was a delightful experience. For most of the 1.5 hours we spent here, we were the only customers in the speakeasy. It felt so secret and luxurious, like our own private room! The bartender was friendly and we had some nice conversation.

This place gives a chill, small speakeasy vibe. It is recommended to reserve a table but they do take walk ins. The bartenders and waitress are easy to talk to and are good to talk with. The drinks are a bit pricey but is understandable with the amount of time it takes to make them and set them up. They are tasty and are more complex to be able to sip and enjoy rather than binging for the quick buzz. Great place to take pics, enjoy a drink, and talk story.

Now this is a speakeasy, not so easy to find the door but thanks to a little help it didn't take long to get in. One thing I like about these hidden gems, you they are not typically overcrowded and very personable. They also seem to hit the target on quality in every drink they serve. The Green Light is as comfortable as it gets, and the staff make sure of it. This is definitely a bar that will see us again. Cheers!

I really enjoyed my experience at The Green Light Speakeasy. Hargett St is easily my favorite place downtown. It's a street immersed in very eclectic spaces.The staff here are excellent. We visited The Architect failing to realize that The Green Light was within the bar itself. We followed a few folks into the turning bookcase and were greeted by Jason. We did not have a reservation for the evening and luckily he was able to find us a comfortable corner seat near the deer head. We reviewed the menu and decided on the Rum Flipped cocktail. The best way to describe this cocktail is Eggnog. It was literally the perfect night cap. The bartenders are talented, the wait staff and management here are excellent. Green Light definitely gave me east village New York vibes and that is dear to my heart as a home sick Native New Yorker. I can't wait to return again.

Best kept secret in Raleigh!! Drinks are amazing and the service is truly divine...can't wait to return!

Let me just say I loved this place! Since I've moved here in September we haven't done too much going out but my sister in law and her bf stopped in town and brought us here. What a cool place it was, the vibes and the drinks were immaculate! First of all going into a place with a door that looks like a wall but is actually a door will always make me feel like I'm in some sort of mystery or mythical movie! The service was fantastic, and the drinks were delicious! I loved the Eastern Medicines so much I had 3! If you're a gin girl like me you will love this. I highly recommend this place to anyone visiting or if you just wanna a good time!

First time going to The Green Light and YOU have to go! It's the coolest little spot with amazing drinks. The Old Fashioned and the Honey Rose are to die for! The service we received was so amazing and we will definitely be back again. They made us feel welcomed and gave us an amazing experience.

Nice secrete entrance the doorman let's you in . Pretty small basic room and not playing period music , but modern music took from vibe . Drinks good but was out of a lot and not willing to make off custom drinks off the menu ? Hence not 5 star .

Very amazing intimate place. Such a bonus to find connected to the Architect Bar. Relaxing atmosphere and incredible cocktails. The bartender, Reid, made us feel right at home.

Drinks were nice. We were told of some cool bar that has a hidden bar you have to find, so we went to see. After climbing the stairs to the bar, it was empty and to the right of the stairs is the only bookcase on the floor, which means that's the door lol. Not sure if reservations are needed but was asked if we had one. We didn't and we're sat down immediately. It's cute and dark in the little bar. Did take a while to get our order taken but there was one server who went table to table to take orders. Nice experience but not a place I'd frequent

Delivers everything it promises. You can only text msg for a reservation. The door is actually 108 5 (1/2) not 108. Justin was wonderful, the drinks delicious, ambiance posh but chill.

The Green Light is normally fantastic, but my most recent experience was less then pleasant, it was just before Christmas so one could expect Christmas music playing, but they had "trap"/"club" remixes of Christmas songs playing, and too loud, it left both me and my friend a bit disappointed as we had much better experiences before hand. The drinks were great as well as the service. I just wish they would be more careful as to how they curate the music they play and for the type of venue it is

What a fun place! I love a great speakeasy with tasty cocktails. I suggest bringing your friends and not telling them you're going to a speakeasy! I did that with my friends and it was so fun seeing their faces when the bookshelf opened. Other than that the cocktails are delicious! It is very small and can get crowded quick.

Such a great speakeasy! It was not the easiest to find, but was worth it when you do. It does not look like it belongs where the door is, the inside of the club is a completely different vibe. Inside we were sat and had a fabulous server. They explained everything so well and gave us some history about the green light as well. The drinks were made perfectly and were strong. I would easily say this was a little gem that we found on our trip.

Funky, hipster-ish hidden bar with excellent cocktails and a great vibe. Most cocktails are ~$15. We've always had a good time at The Green Light. Text them in order to reserve your table in advance.

I've gone by twice now and have just been really disappointed by the entire experience. First time they wouldn't let us walk in even though it was early and there was no one there because we didn't have a reservation. Second time we made a reservation for 10pm and get there exactly on time only to be told there was no room. We waited for 30 minutes and watched 3 other groups go in. We finally went back up and we're told that they'd moved us to 11pm since there was no room. When we asked why the other people were able to get in we were told "they had a reservation". Well so did we. Their reservation website says there is a 1.5 hour time limit for each reservation for groups under 6. If you can't get in without a reservation then please enforce the time limit. Otherwise just make it first come first served and give everyone the same opportunity to get in.

This is a cool novelty spot to check out for something a little out of the norm on your night out. I went here during the day with my boyfriend and thoroughly enjoyed the quieter, more intimate vibes. It's a very small space, as you can imagine, but there are plenty of places to sit. I enjoyed the view and the natural light that lit the room. It's not a place I personally would want to camp out at for an extended period of time but it's definitely a cool spot to check out and bring a very small group.

I've been a fan of The Green Light in Raleigh for some time. Not always a great experience but always a good experience ... until recently. Earlier this month I brought a date there and made a reservation as is required. We checked in 10 minutes early as I always do and at the time of seating (9 PM) the Host informed me that they had a large party coming in at 10:15 and as a result, we could only have the table until 10 PM. I truly thought I was hearing things (Over the loud thumping dance music in the background) so I asked him again and he confirmed what he had said the first time that we had the table for 1 hour. I was flabbergasted! The date was impressed with the place and the Speakeasy motif and as we worked on cocktail #2, at 10 PM sharp, the Host walked up and told us to get a check to clear the space for the 10:15 party that was arriving soon. Our second drinks were half finished. Not only did I find this lack of professionalism appalling as a customer, but as a person whose first career was Culinary, I have never in my entire life heard of any such practice where reservations were taken, overbooked, and actually asked a customer to surrender a table! I couldn't help but imagine if this was a restaurant. The equivalent would be, mid-meal, for a Server to walk up with to-go boxes and a check and an invitation to vacate. When I texted the Manager, a person who identified himself as a Manager, I sent him the text with details of the complaint. That was three weeks and to-date, zero response. Pretty confident that was my last time at the Green Light.

They weee great!! We had the best bartender!!! Asked for a tequila soda with some sprite and he made a homemade lemon like syrup for me. Great company, good vibes, good conversation, great drinks. Did I say good drinks?? Yea I did. They are awesome!! Swing by here on a night out for sure

It's a cool place. The drinks are a little pricey and there isn't a lot of space but it's a really fun speakeasy. The level of detail in the place is awesome.

Shhhhh! Don't speak too loudly on this one. Nice hidden secret for Raleigh. Secluded and afterwards if you wanted to dance you would just walk into The Architect. Definitely recommend

I have to say, I went but I thought they served food. So I didn't stay long. The waiter was nice and the bartender was very friendly and sociable. The decor inside was fitting. The only thing I would say, is, I wish they would play more into the hidden aspect of the place when you get there there's no pomp to that aspect of it which is promoted as the main gimmick of the place.

Biggest waste of time ever. We were told you need to make a reservation to get in so we did. At our reservation time we were told that we could not get in because people were still in there. After 30 mins of waiting we were told that our reservation basically met nothing and they could possibly get us in an hour after. I would not waste my time on this place, there are way better places in Raleigh that are friendlier and better atmosphere without all the hassle.

How to get in: Look for the bar the Architect and go upstairs. Ask the hostess at the door for the green light and he basically opened the bookcase door for you. I oddly found it underwhelming cause I was expecting a bit more wowwwww but it's a bookcase behind the hostess. Inside the speakeasy, it's very small! I saw a huge party there and I sat at one of the tables and orders the honey rose drink. Service was slow but they came to me when I needed them. They were slightly louder than I'd like but it was nice.

The staff here was extremely rude. Server was fine but bartender and doorman were actually insulting.

Atmosphere was great, the service was awful, and the drinks were just okay. We arrived a bit late for our reservation, which is fully our fault (parking was a nightmare), but I apologized profusely. However, we did try calling several times to let them know, and to see if we could move/change our reservation or if there was a cut off x amount of time past when you reserved a table, and no one answered... I'd heard how cool this place was and how you have to search for the entrance to this hidden speakeasy, and we were excited for the experience. There's literally a host stand right outside the "hidden" bookshelf with someone who asks if you're there for the Green Light, and then pulls the door open for you. Not mystique there. We waited over 20 minutes for our drinks. There were not THAT many other customers in there to justify such a long wait time. And then literally no one gave us the time of day after that. At least five employees were in and out of the room several times and everyone seemed more concerned about chatting than doing their jobs. I wasn't impressed with my drink (5th Avenue), but my guy liked his (Honey Rose) well enough. I tried both and his was better than mine, but neither of them were anything special. We never got offered the chance to try another round of drinks, as no one came to our table again, but the host did come to let us know our table had another reservation in 10 minutes, and to let him know how we'd like to pay. That was so incredibly rude and inappropriate. Why would you schedule another reservation at a table without informing people there is a time limit to how long you're allowed to be there? What if we had wanted to stay and get another round and give this establishment more money? There were other groups that had been there longer than us and as far as I could tell, weren't rushed to leave. In fact, they were ordering another round as we were hurried out. So incredibly RUDE. I feel like this place thinks it's way ~cooler~ than it actually is. From all the reviews, I expected much more, but I definitely wouldn't recommend this place. It's overhyped and everyone is clearly full of themselves.

Cute speakeasy. Strong drinks. Nice staff. Went at about 5pm on a Sat evening and was able to walk right in.

Service was really really lacking. There only 10-15 guests total while we were there yet our server rarely came by. We ordered a second round of drinks that never came and watched the bar tenders on their phone or just standing- clearly the server hadn't passed along our drink orders. When we tried to flag her down to our table for the ticket she ignored us. When we finally went to the bar to pay for our 1 round of drinks she stood with her back to us talking to the bartender ignoring us while the 2nd bartender was on her phone ignoring us. mind you this is a very small room. You have to work to not notice what's going on around you. Then she finally gave us the ticket with 2 round of drinks on it. When we said that we never got our second round she tried to argue with us. The atmosphere was great and music was good. The drinks we got were very tasty. We we're planning to bring our friends but changed our minds. Do not want to deal with this kind of service again for the price.

I was in Raleigh visiting a friend and she said that she had heard of the green light but had never tried going. We went to the Architect and I'm not sure what we were thinking, but we thought we were already there (and were a little underwhelmed). I had to use the restroom and on my way back I SAW THE BOOK CASE OPEN. I felt like I had seen some secret place and told my friend immediately we were NOT in the green light. I went up to the host stand and asked how we could get in. He said we needed a reservation because it's so small (It was a Friday night). He was nice enough to put us on the reservation list for 11pm. We ended up getting in a little earlier. It is a SUPER small bar. Maybe about 8 people at the bar and 8 two-seater tables? (just an estimate) Only two staff members working. The cocktails are a little on the pricier side ($12-15) but they are high quality. The bartenders were super friendly and made conversation with us. It was a really cool experience!

I came in for saint Patrick's day and I remembered Justin from the last time I came in. We had an awesome conversation and I his drinks and getting to chat with him at the bar. He made me and my friends night! Thanks Justin!

I love the drinks and I love the atmosphere but the staff is not nice. Def not a welcoming vibe. Used to be a warm and friendly spot.

I had to sneak up on my friend Luva who also happens to bartend at The Green Light last Friday on my visit back to NC. Little did I know exactly how hidden it was when I began this one block caper. Up the unmarked stairs and through the bookcase we went. I know craft cocktails are so passé now that they are the norm at nearly every bar you go to but The Green Light has really taken the ball and run with their selection. Foundation, who lead the crusade even falls behind. Alas. Point being: get the Eastern Medicine. I sent you.

Great atmosphere, bartender Sam on Wednesday night was great(only night I went while I was in town). The staff is very accommodating

Hidden behind the bookshelf, this tiny hidden gem is found. It is very cozy and when it's at capacity (30 people maybe), it gets a bit tight and intimate. The walls are covered with velvet wallpaper, which is so chic! In true speakeasy fashion, the hand crafted cocktails are on point. I opted for the 5th Avenue, vodka, blueberry, cinnamon, divine. I had 2... and could've had about 10 more. If you come in on a Friday or Saturday, reservations are a must!

A fun speakeasy. The bartenders were super nice and knowledgeable. Received great drink recommendations. Loved the intimate atmosphere. A great spot when you want to try something different. The host was also super friendly and welcoming.

This was such a great place to have our pre-dinner date drinks at. We were walking down the street when my partner exclaimed that inside the Architect was a hidden room. So we went and inquired and well, don't you know it, not just any room, but a speak easy with handsomely dressed men and one of a kind drinks with unique names. I loved mine; "Porn on Mute" that had a metal straw. Our barkeep (pictured) was very informative and didn't mind answering all the questions I had about what was what. I can't wait to go again and try yet another new drinks! Highly recommend.

This is truly the definition of a hidden gem! My friend gave me the scope about this place and said it was a must visit when I was in Raleigh, so of course I jumped on the bandwagon to make reservations! It's a very small and intimate space -- maybe 6-8 bar seats and 6-8 small tables. Low lighting to set the mood. Music to enjoy but not too loud where you can't enjoy a conversation or hear someone. Two bartenders to serve the place (if you're lucky their the cute ones)! The service when you first arrive is great, as they want to get a drink in your hand, however it did decline a little and I may have stayed for another drink if someone asked early enough (not after sitting there for 10mins being ignored). I get it's a hopping place and they're the only two, but you gotta keep those glasses filled! Cocktails were in the $12-15 price range, just as you would expect at a speakeasy/nicer bar, which isn't bad as I've seen some places like this hike the drink prices up to the $20 range. I got the Conniption Fit and it was a delicious blend of Gin, Rosemary & Cucumber... super refreshing in the summertime! Super cool concept and worth the little bit of an extra $$ spend for a drink to experience the atmosphere of a true speakeasy! If you want to find a true "hole in the wall" hidden gem that tucked away inside a busy, hoppin' bar... I'm not sure why you're still reading and not texting to make reservations... GO!

Neat little space, very intimate. Phenomenal playlist. Rude bartender. Drinks were good.

Cocktails here are really good. It's kind of a pain to actually go, but if you get in it's great. The atmosphere is everything you'd expect from a speakeasy. We really like bringing visitors here. Very unique experience.

Wow, wow, WOW! This was a perfect date night spot! We've never been to a speak-easy style bar and this may have ruined them all for us because it was so good! Right off the bat the host greeted us as we came up the stairs and gave us acting roles to open the secret door which was super fun. Once inside, the full service bar staff took our orders and we were free to relax and enjoy both the incredible cocktails and each others company. There is limited seating so it doesn't get too crowded and the music was a fun mix. We made the comment it was loud enough to have to sit close together for conversation which was the ambiance we were looking for in a date night. We tried several of their featured menu items and our top two would have to be the Rum Flipped and the Opium War. The staff was happy to make suggestions and it was fun to watch them craft each cocktail. We are SO happy we stumbled onto this speak easy and will be - quietly - recommending it to everyone we know who will be visiting Raleigh.

Maybe I'm a sucker for the secret bookshelf entrance and the fact it's tucked away in the middle of a bustling street and busy bar, but Green Light is a gem! Super intimate and a small location so going early is to your advantage because once it's busy, getting in let alone getting a table is very hard. The cocktails are wonderful and tastefully made - simple fantastic! I wouldn't recommend going with more the 4 people because it could get hard for everyone to sit together.

I love this place so much! What a hidden gem inside the Architect. But it is a little weird you have to pay $1 to get upstairs when you don't want to be in the club area, you just want to be in the speakeasy. Also, highly recommend making a reservation in advance since the speakeasy is very small. But they were accommodating to us and we didn't mind waiting a bit for a spot to open. The drinks are totally prohibition era (think French 75 and Old Fashioneds), and very well crafted. Superb bartenders and awesome ambiance. They will make you whatever you want, even if it's not on the menu. And some drinks even include a little flame action, pretty cool to watch them mix! Spoiler alert - the Green Light is tucked away behind bookcase doors. Hello, English majors and aspiring authors, this could be your new hangout for inspiration!

I've gone to this bar twice and both times I got terrible service. First time a gentleman sat us down and told us someone would be with us shortly, however after waiting for a while we decided to walk up to the dar ourselves. Second time the bartender didn't even try to make eye contact with us, worse part was there were only like 10 ppl inside so it not like they were super busy and didn't see us. Definitely don't recommend this place

Loved that it's a quaint Speak Easy and of course going through the bookcase to reach the bar. Drinks are expensive, but you're there for the experience not the prices.

Definitely caught The Green Light on what I hope was an off night. A flustered bartender since employees did not show up made for a rather unpleasant experience on an early Saturday evening. Cocktails were okay, we have definitely had better, but I loved the space. The bartender did use a stencil and a bottle of food coloring to spray a panda onto the top of my drink. He was able to do this because the egg white created a frothy top so that helped to make the cocktail awesome. I am curious to try The Green Light again when they are fully staffed to see how it compares. Just make sure you look for the green light. And, if you plan to visit on a Friday or Saturday make sure you text the number for a reservation.