Watts & Ward

After 🥘 dinner, decided to walk around to explore a bit on this crisp August evening to help my food digest. Stumbled upon a line that drew my curiosity. Watts & Wards is easy to miss or pass by if not paying attention. Though if you are alert /aware, this is a cool hidden gem. There’s a small membership fee to gain entrance. The vibes are cool. You’ll go under ground to lead into an oasis of good 🎶 music, cool 😎 & chill people and bar stations placed strategically throughout. This was absolutely a happy 😊 accidental find. Met 2 other new visitors and chatted a bit before heading out. I’d definitely return. Unika B. & Co.

Really cool vibes here!! They check your ID at the top of the stairs entrance and then you go down and into the place. Wall down a hallway. It really does have speakeasy feels. One of the seating areas has blue velvet seating. The other has leather and wood. Very swanky. Bar service and drink menu were great. Perfect place for a drink before or after dinner.

Read a review that its $2 for an annual membership, but $6 per entry otherwise? Would've been nice to know. Our group was just walking by from Brewery Bhavana and decided to check it out. Other than that, this is a fun basement bar with speakeasy vibes. There was live music at the time we went. Bartenders seem to take their time. Plenty of different types of seating. Accomodates large groups of friends in an open environment or couples in more intimate settings. Wasn't as sticky as other speakeasys (which is always a good thing).

Great Vibes, but Drinks Can Be Hit or Miss This bar nails the atmosphere — stylish, energetic, and a perfect spot to unwind or catch up with friends. The music and lighting set the tone for a fun night out, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. That said, the drinks were a bit inconsistent. Some cocktails were great, while others missed the mark either in flavor or balance. It feels like it depends on who’s behind the bar or what you order. Still, if you're looking for a place with a cool vibe and don’t mind rolling the dice on your drink, it’s worth a visit. Just maybe stick with the classics!

Watts and Ward is a unique, upscale bar/lounge experience, but there are a couple of things I would note before going. They charge a one-time annual membership fee of $2.00 (2025) per person at this time of posting, which isn’t posted at the entrance. Additionally, they scan your ID into their system for membership—a heads-up would have been appreciated for both. The space itself is impressive, with what seemed like three large bars spread across the basement. It’s clear they can accommodate a lot of people, and I can imagine the atmosphere being really cool on busier nights. The drink menu is dope, offering a wide variety of unique and expertly crafted options. They even go above and beyond to create custom drinks that are requested. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful, answering all our questions and making the experience enjoyable. It’s a great spot (with a lot of comfortable seating) to meet people, enjoy some music, and savor top-notch drinks. Overall, I’d recommend Watts and Ward if you’re local or plan to visit multiple times throughout the year to make the membership worth it. It’s a fun and memorable spot for a night out!

Wanted to take my friends, who were visiting from out of state, somewhere fun with great drinks and a unique atmosphere. I thought the layout and decor was pretty cool but the drinks were not good. For the price, I was hoping for a delicious drink but was disappointed. Plus the beers my husband and friend’s husband got arrived luke warm. They did eventually bring them new ones but that was definitely a first. It was hard to hear one another too. Overall I wish we had a better experience.

For an exceptional nightlife experience, Watts & Ward is the epitome of excellence. Their culinary menu is a masterpiece, offering an impressive array of dishes catering to diverse palates. The Carolina Lily is a standout, and I was impressed by the ambiance, scenic beauty, and well-designed layout. The atmosphere exudes refinement, rendering it a truly enjoyable experience. The warm and inviting ambiance, coupled with the friendly and attentive staff, made my inaugural visit as an introvert a truly memorable one, and I eagerly anticipate returning. Although I reside outside Raleigh, I plan to revisit next weekend 🙂

Watts & Ward is Dope!! The bartender was killing it all night, he made us a few original drinks based off of ingredients we like while putting on a show. Solid drink menu and all the service was exceptional. We moved around a bit to check out the different areas. Once we sat in an old library, once we at at the bar. Another time we enjoyed music from a couch, awesome pace to hear some live music. Wonderful and unique atmosphere, nice soft lighting. They did a great job making it feel like your stepping back into the early 1900s. Definitely hit this place up again the next time we’re in Raleigh NC.

I simply loved the vibe, ambiance, service, drinks, music, EVERYTHING about this bar. We had an incredible evening. The interior design is amazing and ample of seating spaces to enjoy a tasty drink.

Stopped by on a Friday night with a friend, who really enjoys coming to Watts & Ward. However this experience fell a bit flat for me. First off Friday is BUSY, which isn't surprisedly however you have to pay to get into a place when there's basically no seating room left and it took almost an hour to get drinks from the bar. There was only 2 bartenders working and there was no rhyme or reason of who got to order first. You basically just have to push and shove to get to the front, which is ehhh. Once you get your drinks (which you should just order everything you want at once), the drinks weren't even good!! I will the decor inside was very nice - very lounge, jazz bar vibe. But I probably won't be back again unless it's during the week when it's so crowded and the bartenders have time to craft a good cocktail.

Delightful cocktails in a beautiful setting. Highly recommend! The enclosed yard is a really nice area to relax and enjoy.

Went out with friends to this super cool underground speakeasy! Once they check your ID at the door you can head down the stairs to the seemingly plain entryway. Step inside and you're greeted by a neon sign that points you to the inside of the bar. Almost immediately the place transforms into an old timely prohibition era bar that has comfy old couches and some tables and chairs set up. Feel free to either order from the bar immediately or have a seat and scan the QR codes provided on the table for the menus! They don't serve food, so I'd recommend getting your dinner in before if you plan on bar hopping or it could be a nice place to stop for a few drinks before eating! To drink I had the Cactus Garden which has agave & pineapple in it! It was very light and refreshing and probably my favorite drink here! I also had an espresso martini which was also pretty delicious! I like it when my espresso martinis are more espresso forward and not so creamy. I am so excited that I was able to check this place out, and I would highly recommend it to any speakeasy lovers!

I was in the area visiting family and my uncle said that we HAD to go to Watts & Ward - and boy, was he right. I absolutely loved this spot and would come back again every time I'm in Raleigh. Four bars in one... Speakeasy-esque and all of the options for anyone looking to hang out and have a good time. I could not get over the size of this space and how cool of a vibe it was. Our cocktails were delicious and I felt that we didn't have to wait too long considering how busy it was. I loved the options to hang out either inside or outside - we had great weather so we took advantage of the outdoor seating. The atmosphere was just the best -- I wish we could've come back again for a brunch vibe but the post-dinner treat was awesome. Come check it out - you won't be disappointed!

I visited Watts & Ward for the first time Sunday evening after 6 pm. The staff at the entrance was welcoming. Watts & Ward is downstairs in a basement-like space. Cute space with vintage aesthetics which is very nice and comfortable with plenty of seating. The overall aesthetics of the space and comfortability is a 4*. A few things on the patio seemed out of place but overall a nice space. This particular evening the bartender in The Mud Room demeanor was not friendly, or enthusiastic. That individual didn't demonstrate good customer service warranting anything over an overall 3* based on my experience. Even the person cleaning off the table didn't engage any. I had a Hendricks mule, not in a mule cup. The lemon and ginger were overpowering - way too much carbonation. I like that I get more bang for my buck in the tall glass but as a courtesy, the bartender could share they don't carry the copper mules. This would've leveled up the experience. For me, a copper mule cup is necessary for a proper Moscow Mule. Customer service usually inspires me to return places but in this case, it's the space and others who have enjoyed themselves. I hope to return for the comedy night in the future, hopefully, a better experience.

If you're looking for a true speakeasy experience, watts & ward is your spot. It's found in the heart of downtown Raleigh, on a quaint little corner. You will need to pay a dollar to enter unless you have a membership, which is worth it! Once you have a membership, you will get in for free for the year and you will have one guest be able to enter with you. You will venture down a stairwell and enter into the amazing bar which is Full of lush couches, booths, and additional bar seating. The are multiple separate rooms that make up the venue and they have a separate bar. There is also a lush outdoor space that is wonderful to enjoy during the warmer months. Now to the drinks! Watts & Ward is a true cocktail bar with bartenders and mixologists who make getting a cocktail an experience. I love any cocktail with smoked herbs and they make an amazing drink with smoke rosemary that I could have every evening. They also have a little something for everyone and the bartenders do a great job recommending cocktails based on your taste preferences. If you do not drink alcohol, they have great mocktails too. You won't feel like an afterthought, these are creatively put together as well. I enjoy coming with friends to chat or on a date night but my favorite times to go are Thursday nights when they have live music. They also do quite a few pop up events, so sometimes you can catch a comedy show, a tarot reader, or even a burlesque show.

We had a wonderful time here, it almost feels like you know a little secret when you first show the bouncer your ID an d start walking down stairs. The drinks are perfect, and the vibes are so laid back. There a couple of rooms that feel more secluded, booths for more space, but primarily mostly couches to keep that chill energy while you sip on an amazing drink and catch up with your people, or even do some work like I did. Highly recommend Watts & Ward!

Watts & Ward is a unique 1920's themed speakeasy style bar located on S. Blount St Downtown Raleigh. Situated in the basement of the Montague building, it features 4 bars: The Mud Room, Main Bar, Patio & Library. I have visited twice now and enjoy the grown & sexy vibe and diverse mature crowd here. They play all the classic throw back jams also. The staff whom I've interacted with appear to enjoy their place of work and take pride in that. I visited recently on a Sunday when service was slower during the holiday and this evening for comedy night. The comedians were from all walks of life and talented. Izzy Burger of Wilmington being my favorite of the night. The service was excellent tonight, the bartenders were very friendly and bar service was offered while seated. I've ordered the Far East Ricky with Tanqueray Gin, Lime, Cucumber, Mint with an Egg White and the Penicillin with Johnnie Walker Red Label, Ginger, Honey, Lemon, Islay Scotch. I enjoyed both. I really enjoy how the Prohibition and Roaring 20's vibe is carried throughout the venue. It makes you feel like you flew off a page of the Great Gatsby. This venue is huge and features a beautiful garden patio. I look forward to returning for the live Jazz night, patio and more comedy.

Watt and Ward is a hidden speakeasy that transports you to the Prohibition era. With its vintage decor, expertly crafted cocktails, and attentive service, it offers a captivating and unforgettable experience. Step into this secret establishment and enjoy the allure of a bygone era.

Great venue, music, and service! Went here for my wedding reception after party and everybody had a fantastic time! Great jazz on certain nights, especially some C grace is gone. :(

One of my favorite speakeasies in NC! If you're every close to Raleigh, W&W is a great spot. You walk downstairs into this gorgeous old building that is decorated to a T. Every table makes you feel like you're in a private setting as it's quiet and cozy. Their cocktails are also of the highest quality using the best sprints and ingredients. I got a few classic cocktails little a dirty martini and a few of the ones on their menu. Everything was perfectly balanced. Absolutely check them out!

One of the largest speakeasy's but still is intimate ! Cool underground basement location ,nice Decor and vibe . Was busy but fast service from Charloleta ?

A genuine speakeasy. Cool vibe, great service. Several nooks for privacy. Cool R&B band.

Came here for drinks after dinner, and unfortunately this felt very chaotic and confusing. There are three or four different rooms, including an outdoor patio. It just seems like they're still deciding on what the vibe should be here. Doorman charges $20 a head to get in just a heads up. Drinks were just ok. Not very memorable

This place definitely has a speakeasy vibe. The drinks are a little expensive but the bar tenders do a great job. Lots of unique flavors. They have lots of seating, with couches that make it good for large groups. I also like the large outdoor patio.

We had to pay a fee to get into this club and were the only ones there, other than the bar tender and her friend. I felt like I was interrupting when ordering and was told what I wanted was unavailable, even though I could see that everything needed was indeed at her fingertips. I settled for overpriced wine. The ambience was, however, incredibly comfortable and gorgeous. Three stars for that and my husband's old fashioned.

Husband & I had SUCH a great time here on a Friday night! The vibes & mood are on point!

Excellent service and the drinks are all unique and crafted with care. I was super surprised to find out my drink (New York Sour) would be made with egg whites! The taste was wonderful. Inside of the establishment has a very nice ambiance. Low lighting and lots of couches. What I enjoyed the most is how the inside was split up in sections so it's not just one huge room with lots of couches. The outside courtyard was amazing as well. Strings of cafe lights along with more couches and fire pits made it very cozy. I do wish there were more seating options or even high top cocktail tables place around the area so if it's busy you could sit your drink down. That would not deter me from coming again, though. Can't wait to come back!!

Really cool spot Highly recommend Great vibe and service .................. Love the back bar ..

I came here with my cousin and my aunt at around 5:30 p.m. on a Friday evening. That early, the bar was pretty empty. I ordered a French 75-7-6, which was good. I'd never been to a speakeasy-style bar before, but it was a lot like I had expected: very dim lighting, swanky furniture, and fancy drinks. Overall, a fun choice on a night out once in a while.

Cool place, great selection, amazing ambience. This is an incredibly well-kept secret downtown.

the atmosphere was relaxed and laid back. I enjoyed the live music. The bartender at the first bar was very rude. She had a very bad attitude and spoke to me and my colleagues rude. This was half of us first time visiting and it was unpleasant.

This place is so cool. Mind you, I found out the hard way that right at 7pm, they start a $5 cover charge so keep that in mind. Parking along the street or in a lot is pretty easy and the ambience is very fun and slightly dark (the lighting, not the decor). The fact that it's in a basement probably helps with that. The drinks were also very good. Would definitely return!

I visited Watts & Ward and went to the bar and spoke with "High Maintenance" Bartender Johnny and had him make me a drink not On the menu but a Johnny whiskey special and he made a Final Word with Bullett Rye Wiskey the drink was well balanced with a sweet taste on the back end. The atmosphere is sexy but the bartender are soso. I would go back for the cuteness but the cocktails are suspect. But remember I'm a boozy drinker. But overall Johnny the bartender gets a lot 4/5 for being save and I don't even do boys...lol.

Drinks are good and affordable! We ordered a casualty, house Manhattan, and moon rider--all were very tasty!

This was one of the most fun places I've ever been to! It's a true vision of a speakeasy! You show your ID then walk down some stairs and have a full bar and several different "rooms" with unique, gorgeous sofas and tables. The cutest votive candles and decor. They gave a drink for absolutely everyone! Service is great, and you can order from the bar or at your table. Highly recommend! I'll be there plenty more!

Speakeasy vibes. Walk down the side stairs for a pleasant surprise. Excellent pre post game spot. Low lights dark burgundy leather couches and turquoise velvet seats/couches make for an eclectic experience. Place has 4 bars 3 inside and 1 outside in a sprawling area with muted lights and more than ample seating.

I'm a Bar manager from California who indulges in craft Cocktails whenever I go out to drink. To find a spot like Watts & Ward while visiting the East Coast for the first time was a welcome surprise. It's a great late-night "Speakeasy-esque" bar. The first bartender (female, curly haired) who served me was polite, friendly, and accommodating, as well as knowledgeable of drinks when my friend said "surprise me" essentially. And The drinks were great no question. What my 3 stars is for, is for dishonest staff (or confused, whichever happened). I was charged for their Zero Spirit Espresso MartiNo add Tito's (a $15 drink). When I asked the bartender who served me the espresso martini (male, long hair with a ponytail and tattoos under his rolled up sleeves), what went in my Espresso martini (I was curious because I'm very familiar with the cocktail), he proceeded to list: Cold Brewed Espresso, Simple Syrup, And Smirnoff Vodka (I saw him grab the Smirnoff bottle) along with the proportions. He also listed a few variations of the drink he made seasonally. I'd also like to mention that there is a discrepancy between ingredients listed on the menu versus what he told me went into the drink. (i.e. the Seedlip Spice 94 and Nutmeg that were omitted in the ingredients listed by him). However, to ensure I was charged correctly, I asked the first bartender, who served me who was unaware of the situation (she was busy serving other patrons), to see if that seemed right. She asked the other bartender (who also claimed to be a former part owner of the bar), he claimed he used Tito's. I don't know if there's a discrepancy between recipes used or if he was busy and made a mistake in what he said or used in the cocktail but if I ever return to Raleigh, NC, I don't know if I'd ever want to get an espresso martini from W&W again. Or a cocktail from the second male bartender mentioned above. Flair seemed more important to him than accuracy of his cocktails. A shame because the espresso martini is a Hot commodity cocktail. We serve a fantastic one at the restaurant whose bar I manage back home. Thanks for reading.

Watts & Ward wields weighty cocktail power. The drinks are creative, potent, and delicious. Real gods' nectar stuff. And the spot blends a catacombs-like indoor with a southern patio party outdoors.

Cool speakeasy vibes. Definitely take the time to walk around the halls, it's actually a decently sized place with a good outdoor space. My Moonrider (tequila) was a little too sweet and maybe had a spritz of alcohol in it at best. However the Far Harbor was very good and tasty.

Gorgeous speakeasy! The perfect location to be with friends and enjoy a drink. The couches are comfy and the setting is cozy.

The ambiance is very delightful and the drinks are divine! They also have live music most nights!

Visited this last Sunday night around midnight. We were in Raleigh for the long weekend and kept on walking by this place. The vibes were really cool so we had to make sure we visited our last night in town. They have a nice "underground" section and also an outdoor space. Cocktails were good and the bouncer was friendly. You have to have cash to get in the first time. You pay $1 for an annual membership that is linked to your ID. If we were ever back in the area, we will definitely visit again.

Perfect spot for an intimate night with friends. Plenty of rooms, lots of couches and lounging areas for your group. Recommend espresso martini

watts and Ward is always a great go-to when downtown. Sometimes you can find a great seat, sometimes not, but it won't be long before a great seat becomes available. You can find a private nook, or sit amongst many whatever you prefer the outdoor area it's super nice when it's not too hot outside.

This hidden jem is nice, cozy spot downtown Raleigh ideal if your looking to spend quality time with that special someone and a smooth drink. I did think the drinks were kinda weak, I got two Long Island tea and I didn't feel anything. But the vibe is cool.

This was a fun stop on our night in Raleigh! This is a club and you have to join but once you join you're in forever. So the fun bouncer/host at the door checked our ID's (yes even us 50 plus people) and then we paid our club dues! The vibe in this place is very cool! It feels like a prohibition era hidden bar. It's in the basement and the furniture is all ancient, antique, whatever word you want to use. They have a good selection at the bar, I know this because Hubby orders unusual bourbons. There are a couple of walk up bars and also some staff walking around for orders. We waited for about 10 minutes, then the gentleman went to the bar to order. Of course, no sooner had they ordered then the gal came to see if we needed anything. So, us non-alcoholic beverage people ordered from her. The group near us was really LOUD, so we meandered around the rooms and find a quiet nook. We enjoyed our drinks and the great people watching. Stop in for a drink if you're in Raleigh, it's worth the price of membership to see the cool bar and seating areas.

What a hidden gem! Located in DT Raleigh next to Brewery Bhavana, Watts & Ward is a cozy, yet spacious bar that is perfect for a lowkey night out. There is a $1 membership fee that you can either pay in cash at the front, or add to your tab (don't forget to keep the receipt to show to the bouncer later) and that fee is good for a year of membership. The hallways lead to multiple sections, plenty of couches and warm lighting. The cocktails were delicious and I never felt too cramped despite it being a Friday night. There is an outdoor section as with fire pits, tables etc. A great location for groups!

Watts & Ward is one of my favorite places to get drinks in downtown Raleigh. They feature three different bars, each with an amazing ambiance. If you prefer being outside, they have a plenty of outside seating on their patio which also features live music once a week. Enough about the ambiance, they have a huge selection of cocktails that are perfectly crafted by their staff. Watts & Ward is only of those places where you will amazing cocktails complemented by a great ambiance.

The vibe here is unmatched. Perfect place for the after hours professional to come chill & sip on their favorite drink. People are always social and staff is great. Highly recommended spot!

The service and ambiance is great. It is a nice mellow place to meet for drinks, conversation and a good time.

Finally had an opportunity to check out this slick speakeasy! Find it around the corner from Caffe Luna. One dollar and an id to the guy at the top of the stairs will get you an instant membership. (If you're wondering why the membership is necessary to access a bar, know that it's a NC legal thing when a bar doesn't serve food...sigh, NC still has a way to go with some things). But you only have to pay the dollar once, then your id is linked to a membership and you can bring a couple guests with you next time. So...down the stairs you go (and quite the stairs they are...concrete, a bit narrow, I can only imagine how fun they could be after a few too many!), and into a hallway, and another hallway. Then rooms and bars and comfy couches, booths and well...it's a big place that's perfect for any size party. Very comfortable atmosphere! The two of us landed in a booth. Note: don't be in a hurry if you go here, as it gets really busy. Allow time for service (they will want you to put a card on file), drinks to be made...takes awhile...then getting the check can take some time. Wine choices are limited (only one chardonnay, for instance, decent pour for $10) Signature cocktails are $12. My wine plus Husband's Old Fashioned with Basil Hayden was $27.

Ambience: 4/5 - wannabe speakeasy Service: 5/5 Drinks: 2/5 I think I had the Hummingbird, which was served in a shallow glass (I'm not a connoisseur of glassware) and it was a pink liquid. But for a place that gives off Prohibition vibes, it's almost like alcohol is still prohibited. Maybe the drink was made in a hurry to avoid being found out. Maybe some of the supplies got held up along the way. My drink was simply 'straight up not having a good time.' Can't wait for Prohibition to end so we can release our inhibitions and feel the rain on our skin and enjoy the drinks that the roaring 20s deserve.

Wow what a cool place. It has the Speakasy feel with all the wood, turn of the century furniture & leather decor. This place is huge. There were so many different crooks & crannies in this place. Definitely a millennial crowd but plenty of spots for any ages to hang out and get interesting drinks. The drinks can be pricey but then The bartenders take their time to craft beautiful drinks. I don't know how I have missed this place before but I highly recommend this bar for something unique in Raleigh.

Great ambiance, my friends and I went here after graduation and all the waiters and staff were very friendly. Would recommend the Carolina Lily

really fun spot that we went to late night after traveling for work. good crowd and better drinks

Hi, I've been here almost a month ago now and have no yet received my direct deposit of $80 yet.. it's pretty annoying to call so much and be told different things; even things ppl are "sooo" sure about it sucks. however, i would recommend for their drinks and no need to watch around you or anything. just more honesty, there. if you like this review, pls lmk by liking or striking the button pls. thanks you

Probably one of my most favorite bars ever visited! Drinks are expertly crafted and I love the different areas to sit in depending on your mood. The speakeasy vibe was well played, the sofas were comfortable, and the overall atmosphere was superb. I'd definitely recommend and will return!

This is a great bar in downtown Raleigh! We came in on a very rainy, windy Monday evening, and lucky didn't have to pay the $1 membership fee that everyone has written about. (I'm assuming it was because of the horrible weather and only a couple people inside...) It has really cool, dimly light hallways that lead you to open rooms leading to the bar area. The leather couches and layout is really cool, especially with the "speakeasy" style and atmosphere that this bar is known for. If you're ordering the cocktails, don't be surprised that they are priced more than drafts or glasses of wine. The ingredients are amazing and the attention to detail to the make of the drinks is exquisite! They have amazing drinks, especially their unique signature cocktails! Our bartender was amazing! He was so friendly and informative about the drinks and cocktails we ordered. I really liked his attention to detail and how he would check-in with us at our table to see if we wanted anything else or any additional drinks to order. I ordered their 2 most popular and signature cocktails, the Carolina Lily and one of their newest drinks that comes with champagne (sorry, I forgot the name!). The bartender asked me my opinions of them, and I recommend the newer drink was my favorite, since it was less tart than the Carolina Lily. I asked to have a little more champagne in the drink, since it was a little sweet for my taste, and he gladly came back and filled my flute with more champagne, which I think definitely helped balance the overall taste of the drink. Look out for it on the menu! It was delicious!!! I highly recommend coming here! Take a look at their website for details about events hosted there in the evenings, like comedy night and live jazz.