“Party” listings
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Frazier’s Wine Bar
A simple formula of excellent wine, local beers and a great location ensured this bar would be a success even without its awesome velvet armchairs, oriental rugs and menu that bears scant resemblance to bar food. Those details—and the delicious merguez crepinettes—make it truly memorable. (09/2011)
2418 Hillsborough St, Raleigh
919- 828-6699
frazierswinebar.com -
Isaac Hunter’s Oak City Tavern
With a name that hearkens back to Raleigh’s original 18th-century watering hole, this intimate downtown bar endeavors to unite past and future to become part of city history. A choice cocktail menu with some seriously old-school roots has already made it a modern classic. (08/2011)
112 Fayetteville St, Raleigh
919-526-0060
huntersoakcity.com -
Casbah
In its short lifespan, this florist’s shop-turned-midsized music hall has played host to an impressive roster of nationally recognized artists as well as the local acts most likely to go big. The well-stocked bar and proximity to some of Durham’s best restaurants make this a near-perfect spot to end up on a weekend night. (05/2011)
1007 W Main St, Durham
919-687-6959
casbahdurham.com -
Amra’s
The cocktail list is impressive, but the ambience of this luxe speakeasy is not far behind. The live jazz, swanky interiors and well-stocked cigar humidor evoke a 1930s nightclub, but the vibe most weekend nights is more 21st century, with beats to match. (03/2011)
106 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
919-828- 8488
amrasraleigh.com -
Motorco Music Hall
A stylishly revamped old car dealership finds new life as one of the Triangle’s best new venues. Its constantly changing, genre-bending schedule ensures that fans of almost any sort of music will find something to tap their toes to. (02/2011)
723 Rigsbee Ave, Durham
919-901-0875
motorcomusic.com -
FULLSTEAM BREWERY
The long-term goal behind this plow-to-pint operation involves discovering a beer that is distinctly southern and true to its local roots. But the short-term thrill of tasting the contenders (Cream Ale? Hickory-Smoked Porter?) is what makes the trip worth it. (01/2011)
726 Rigsbee Ave, Durham
919-682-2337
fullsteam.ag -
KINGS
This much-beloved, musician-owned nightclub recently reopened its doors in a new threestory location with more of everything that made it a local fave: a well-stocked bar, friendly staff and vintage arcade games. (01/2011)
14 W Martin St, Raleigh
919-833-1091
kingsbarcade.com -
DAIN’S PLACE
The recipe for the perfect neighborhood bar includes a cozy atmosphere, an excellent selection of beer, a friendly staff, a loyal clientele and a trivia night that stumps Duke PhDs. This little pub has all of that, plus a killer cheeseburger. (10/2010)
754 Ninth St, Durham
919-416-8800
dainsplace.com -
FUSE
Just steps away from several of Chapel Hill’s most famous (and infamous) venues, this stylish little bar offers a regular roster of weekend DJs, live music and a clever late-night menu that outclasses standard pub fare. (09/2010)
403 W Rosemary St, Chapel Hill
919-942-9242
f-use.com -
SOLAS
No time to visit Miami this summer? Go to Raleigh’s new answer to the South Beach party scene. This superclub-style spot features a glass dance fl oor overlooking the restaurant below and rooftop bar where you can rent a cabana for a private party. (07/2010)
419 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh
919-755-0755
solasraleigh.com -
THE FEDERAL
This restaurant doesn’t really get rocking until after 7pm, but once the bar scene is in full swing, expect smart conversation (Duke is next door) and a large selection of draft beers. (05/2010)
914 W Main St, Durham
919-680-8611 -
BULL MCCABE’S
This happening pub features Irish and seasonal brews like Smithwick’s and Sweetwater 420 on tap, as well as live music and friendly regulars. (03/2010)
427 W Main St, Durham
919-682-3061
bullmccabesirishpub.com