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Tantra Nightclub and Ultra Lounge

November 5, 2009 By zspotblog
 

tantra

From the moment you step through the front door of Tantra and are welcomed by a cascading waterfall and crystal chandelier, you understand its unmistakable allure and attraction.
 
 Entering Tantra, you are immediately immersed in its captivating surroundings of crystal chandeliers, waterfalls, lava bar tops, and one of a kind jellyfish aquarium. One can choose to either relax in the lounge or one of the five stunning VIP rooms surrounded by custom furniture, dazzling chandelier lighting and their very own tableside bartender. European photo art adorns the walls of the club and add an element of sexiness and glamour unmatched by any other club in Raleigh. Walking through to the dance club side of Tantra you are (enchanted) by the inviting backdrop of the breathtaking bar tops, waterfall, go go cage and stunning ceiling. Its modern and chic ambiance and mood make this lounge and nightclub completely unique and incomparable to anything else Raleigh has ever seen.
 
 The owners of Tantra have traveled throughout the world and wanted to bring to Raleigh everything that it has been missing. They were driven by their experience of big city nightlife and their inspiration from iconic, modern lounges and nightclubs, such as Tao, Les Deux, and Mansion. They brought together the elements of the upscale exclusivity of New York and the unmistakably unique party scene of South Beach and Las Vegas with a touch of the posh sophistication of Europe’s modern nightlife.
 
Bringing the exclusivity of VIP to everyone who walks through the door, one can become so enveloped by Tantra’s scene that they’d walk out and expect to see a swarm of paparazzi flashing lights behind the velvet ropes. The best of the 70s, 80s and 90s provide the perfect lounge mood, while on the dance club side the intriguing mix of your favorite latest top 40 infused with house beats and captivating atmosphere makes you feel as if you’ve just stepped off the plane in New York or Miami. The experienced staff of bartenders makes every customer feel at ease and the accommodating VIP hostesses add the perfect touch to your night out.
 
Open Thursday-Saturday, the Lounge opens at 7pm and the nightclub is open from 10pm-3am. Tantra is located at 310 S. West Street. Fridays bring back a taste of nostalgia with 80’s night and every Saturday is Ladies night, where every lady gets in free. Be sure to dress to impress as the dress code is enforced and is part of your experience at Tantra. Everything you need to know about the dress code is on their website.
 
If you are looking for more informaiton or to book a VIP party call 919-834-9333.  www.tantraraleigh.com.
 
 
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The LoneRider Brewery

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

The LoneRider Brewery
8816 Gulf Ct. Suite 100
Raleigh, NC 27617
919-423-5203

March 26, 2009
By Jamie Buning (ZSpotlight editor)

Rebels with a Cause

“Effect change; don’t be an audience. Walk your own path, and instead of thinking outside the box, imagine if there was no box.”

This is the philosophy of The LoneRider Brewery and also the lives of its owners.  It’s necessary to believe in a life without limits when opening a brewery while also working full-time as an engineer. This belief is what friends Steve Kramling, Mihir Patel, and Sumit Vohra have actively lived out.  Each of the guys works an 8-5 job, then continues working into the night to keep their dream of The LoneRider Brewing Company and its mission alive.

Steve is the brew master and develops new beers with the help of David Leeds, the head brewer.  Mihir is the Chief Financial Officer and Sumit is the CEO and “Chief Drinking Officer,” as he likes to call himself.  The team officially introduced LoneRider to Raleigh on January 23rd with the brewery’s first tour.

The concept of LoneRider is that of breaking away from the pack and trying out new ideas.  One such idea is offering brewery tours on Friday nights, while many other breweries have Saturday tours.  LoneRider’s Friday tours are an hour long from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. and require sign-ups on their website (www.loneriderbeer.com). I actually got to attend the first tour and taste the flagship beer – Shotgun Betty, a flavorful Hefeweizen with a banana/clove nose and very good!  The other beer available was malty Deadeye Jack Porter with hints of roasted chocolate.  These beers may be purchased in 1/2 barrel and 1/6th barrel kegs or growlers (at the fantastic price of $15 and $10 refills).

LoneRider will be bottling their beer to sell at the brewery and hopefully in stores within six to nine months.  If you have a hankering for a Shotgun Betty one night, you can find LoneRider beers at bars and restaurants such as The Pit, Brickhouse, The Flying Saucer, Brixx Pizza, Broad Street, and The Federal (check the website for a complete list).

As LoneRider and its following continue to grow, the plan is to provide the opportunity to become a member of the brewery.  The idea, says Sumit, is for “folks with a passion for startups and a love of craft beer, to become more involved with LoneRider.”  Stay tuned to the website for more details about the program, which will be posted very soon.

LoneRider has many exciting events planned for the future.  On March 31, they will collaborate with Blu Seafood Restaurant in Durham to put on a Cowboy Dinner.  The next year-round beer style should be ready for consumption come mid-May.  Information about the brewery and its events can be found at www.loneriderbeer.com.  I’m thrilled about this new addition to the Triangle area and I can’t wait to get back to LoneRider Brewing Company for another tour. Bottoms up.

lonerider

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Deep South The Bar

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Deep South The Bar
430 S. Dawson St.
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-555-5555

November 12, 2007
By Jamie Buning (ZSpotlight editor)

Deep South “Where Everyone Knows Your Name”

Deep South may not look like the “Cheers” bar, but the atmosphere sure is friendly.  I came to the bar alone on this particular night and sat down to get a drink.  A couple of people started chatting with me and one even bought me a shot.  (Believe me, it’s not an everyday occurrence, even though I am a female.)

As I sat there, I got a chance to really take in my surroundings.  What caught my eye first were the rock and roll décor and the red painted walls.  On the walls are rock posters, some memorabilia (a guitar, for example) and my favorite part of the décor: quotes.  There were quotes from people’s favorite songs.  A few that I noticed were:  “Don’t you draw the Queen of Diamonds boy, she’ll beat you if she’s able…  You know the Queen of Hearts is always your best bet.”- Eagles and “You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one.”- John Lennon.

The music playing in the background echoed the rock theme, and I found myself singing along.  I ordered another beer and saw that one of the owners, Dave Rose had just returned.  He came in with a couple pizzas for the customers.  How sweet.  The pool players took a break to come and grab some grub.  I took the opportunity to talk to Dave.

Dave told me that in 1995 he co-founded Deep South Entertainment with Andy Martin.  Deep South eventually expanded into concert production, including the very successful Bud Light Downtown Concert series.  With the success of the company and the roots that Dave and Andy have in Raleigh, the time was finally right to be able to open a bar downtown.  So we now have Deep South – the bar.

I would call Deep South a very chill and simplistic bar- a great place to meet people.   There is never a cover charge, only a $5 membership for one year.  As a member, you can bring in all of your friends.  Membership is open to pretty much anyone, although, Deep South is deemed an idiot-free zone.  If any customers are being stupid or disrespectful, then they will be asked to leave.

At Deep South, you can get beer, wine, or liquor.  There are four beers on tap- Blue Moon, Bridgeport IPA, Guinness, and Woodchuck.  The regular domestics and a few others are offered in bottles.  If you’re in the mood for something different, try a shot.  The bartenders are all knowledgeable about shots and each of them has their own shot on the menu, such as Mel’s Sex and Candy and Jennifer’s Crazy Bitch.  Deep South has no drink specials, but the prices are reasonable and you can be sure to get the same great offerings every day of the week.

I think every city needs to have at least one “Cheers” bar, where you can go and feel welcome and wanted, and people know who you are.  I know each person’s “Cheers” bar may be a little different in concept, but Deep South has what I’m looking for with great music, great drinks, and great people.  So meet me at 430 S. Dawson Street and let’s have a drink.

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Lucky B’s

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Lucky B’s
609 Tucker Street
Raleigh, NC 27603
919-833-1310

January 3, 2007
By Samantha (ZSpotlight editor)

While Glenwood South is slowly adding one trendy hotspot after another, there is only one place where the beer is cold, the girls are hot, and you can come as you are.

Lucky B’s was established as a downtown mainstay by hockey phenom Bates Battaglia and club mogul Mike Lombardo only a few short years ago. But with its relaxed atmosphere, it has quickly become a local favorite. Once inside, it’s hard to miss the diversity of the crowd. Some come in jeans, some dress to impress. It’s plain to see that neither who you are nor what you wear matters here. It’s a melting pot of good people out for a good time. Lucky B’s just feels like home. That is, if your home comes complete with friendly bartenders, pool tables, dart boards, video games, and a landscape of beautiful people that changes nightly.

Remember those mix tapes you made back in the day? That’s the trademark sound of Lucky B’s. The staff takes great pride in creating custom mixes sure to please even the most discerning of listeners. On the weekends it’s normal to hear the newest hip hop mixed with old favorites. The top most requested song is Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing,” but hits by artists such as Ice Cube, Al Green and Bon Jovi provide a colorful soundtrack to your evening. During the week Lucky B’s keeps that customized feel with a jukebox stocked with hits. This is only one of the many reasons Raleigh bar patrons find Lucky B’s as comfortable as that old pair of jeans.

Lucky B’s is so cool, one name wasn’t enough. Depending on who you ask, this happy little bar is often called one of three things: “Lucky B’s,” “Lucky 13” or “Around the Corner.” Why? It just sort of happened that way. It’s almost as if being able to call it whatever you want, gives it a more personal feel… the opportunity to make it your own.

As if being founded by Battaglia wasn’t enough for local legend and lore, Hurricanes players can often be spotted playing a few rounds of pool or chatting up friends and fans at the bar. Regardless, there’s always something interesting going on at Lucky B’s. The walls are lined with 9 TVs so you’ll never miss a game. There are small tables scattered throughout that provide perfect space to rest drinks or gather your group. The outdoor patio, which is enclosed and heated during the winter months, provides a quiet change of scenery.

On Mondays, pool is offered free of charge while you watch the game. On Tuesdays $5 bombs and $12 buckets are offered to take the edge off the workday. Wednesdays you can celebrate the week being half-over with well drinks for $3.
Lucky B’s has always had a “no cover” policy. Even on New Year’s Eve when the other bars were charging a hefty cover, Lucky B’s asked for no proceeds at the door. Their only concern is that you have a great time there. This is your neighborhood bar. It’s just around the corner. Come as you are and make yourself at home!

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ess Lounge & Nightclub

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

ess Lounge & Nightclub
327 W. Davie St.
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-829-5482

November 1, 2006
By Samantha (ZSpotlight editor)

What is Raleigh’s best kept secret of the nightlife scene? ESS Lounge! While it’s no secret that ESS has become one of the newest standout hot spots, the story behind its name remains a mystery.

On any given Saturday, the crème de la crème of the Raleigh lounge crowd can be found sipping martinis and other exotic libations at one of ESS’s 3 bars. ESS even has its own signature cocktail creation the “F Me Grape,” which is available as a martini or a shot. I also highly recommended the pineapple upside-down cake martini. Sunday nights are all about SIN (Service Industry Nights) featuring live music and countless drink specials. Also of note, if you are a non-smoker, ESS has designated non-smoking areas.

The décor is modern, chic, and functional. Acclaimed Local artist Clarke Hipalito helped bring the vision of the ESS management team to life. His paintings are prominently displayed on the walls. The lighting is intimate, ornate and at times hypnotic. The atmosphere brings a crisp metropolitan flavor to downtown Raleigh.

The innovative design of ESS makes it possible to have 3 distinctly different clubs conveniently under the same roof. If you enjoy live music or dancing to the beats of local, national and international DJs, ESS has a special section for you, complete with it’s own bar. If you’d rather relax, catch up with friends, or chat up a handsome stranger, the main bar is equipped with comfortable leather sofas around the perimeter and cushioned barstools surrounding the bar. For the local shutterbugs and practicing paparazzi, there is a modern silver bubble chair suspended from the ceiling that is perfect for that occasional photo op. The patio provides a quite escape if the noise level inside interrupts your conversation. It’s equipped with it’s own bar and is enclosed and heated for those cold evenings.

If you plan to visit ESS on a weekend, you should try to arrive before 10. The club gets busy later in the evening, so to avoid a wait behind the velvet rope, you should get there early. Also of note, after 9:30 you can recoup the price of parking with free admission if you show your ticket at the door.

If you are looking for a site to host this year’s Christmas Party, ESS has several private rooms and sections available for groups of any size. ESS was the chosen site of the “Pink Party” to benefit the Young Survival Coalition. If you are a member of Gold’s Gym, check the ESS calendar for Gold’s Gym Member Appreciation parties. If you have a favorite DJ or band, keep checking the schedule for upcoming music events and special promotions. The talented event planners are cooking up an amazing combination of events just for you.

So if you’re curious, I challenge you to experience ESS for yourself. You can ask the staff, you can ask the patrons. But only you can unravel the mystery.

ess

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Tir Na Nog Irish Pub

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Tir Na Nog Irish Pub
218 South Blount
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-833-7795

August 31 , 2006
By Samantha (ZSpotlight editor)

It’s no secret that Moore Square has become a magnet for fans of live music and connoisseurs of locally-brewed beer. But what you may not know is exactly how much activity is going on behind the brick walls of Tir Na nOg. Once inside, the pub interior could be easily mistaken for scenery in a school play. In fact, a majority of the décor was brought over directly from Ireland. The private room in the back is cleverly separated from the main area by the façade of a cottage complete with authentic 18th century Irish thatching on the roof. At the moment, DateSwitch is conducting a rousing session of speed dating.

On any typical day or evening, you can catch your favorite sport on any of the pub’s 6 television sets. If you’re a fan of Rugby, Soccer, Gaelic Football or other Irish sports, Tir Na nOg is one of the only places in the area that broadcasts the programming of Celtic television network Setanta. There is a lounge area perfect for catching a game and a pint on one of the plush sofas. If you’d rather play than watch, there are darts and video games in another area.

You can always find live music at Tir Na nOg on the weekends. Every Friday from 7 to 9 PM Irish music is featured, after that the bands play everything from the saddest blues to the best local rock-n-roll. Check the online schedule for your favorite band or come out and expand your listening horizons. For a traditional Irish sing-along, you should check out Paddy Gibney who shares his talents once a month. And on Sundays, you may catch an Irish jam session or two.

Tir Na nOg is also known for its amazing Sunday Brunch. For $10.95 you can enjoy both lunch and breakfast favorites, a Belgian waffle bar, made-to-order omelets, salads, freshly-carved meats and (for an additional $4) mimosas or a bloody Mary bar with all the trimmings. After a long weekend of painting the town, this tasty Sunday tradition is guaranteed to put the color back into your cheeks.

There is something going on at Tir Na nOg every night of the week that you should be sure to check out:

  • On Mondays enjoy all the 29 cent wings you can eat and wash them down with $2.50 domestic pints ($3 30 oz.)
  • Tuesdays are Local Band – Local Beer– Pint Nights. From 9 to 11:30, you can enjoy your favorite NC-brewed beer while listening to the sweet sounds of a triangle-area band.
  • Wednesdays are Whiskey and Wine nights, which feature wine or whiskey tastings with themes like “Irish vs. Scottish whiskeys.”
  • On Thursdays, the drink special is $5 Jager Bombs and Fridays you can get microbrews for $3 and Vodka/Red Bulls for $5.

Tir Na nOg is also known for all things Irish, including 2 authentic Irish bartenders. Beginning in September, every third month will feature a Ceili (a large Irish dance party). If you are interested in Irish culture, these are not to be missed! Local Irish step and line dancing schools perform at these events as well as storytellers dressed in traditional Irish garb. Also, don’t forget to mark your calendar for the Six Months to St. Patty’s Day Party on Saturday September 16th!

Tir Na nOg will also be among the sponsors of the Gaelic Festival at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre on October 28.

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Tailgaters Sports Bar

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Tailgaters Sports Bar
2645 E.Millbrook Road
Raleigh, NC 27604
919-790-6800

February 21 , 2006
By Mimi (ZSpotlight editor)

What makes a sports bar great?  Is it simply a bunch of TVs and the satellite and cable subscriptions, so you can watch all your favorite teams and drivers?  Or is it plenty of games for everyone to get involved in, like pool tables, dart boards, video games, and tournament poker?  Or do you need a great beer selection and potent specialty drinks?  Perhaps it’s the right people you require, like a dedicated staff and casual but lively crowd?  Oh wait, I know what it is: the wings!  But do you need them breaded or unbreaded?  Never mind which one tops your list of must-haves, because at Tailgaters you get all this and spiedies too.

Tailgaters is a neighborhood sports bar off Millbrook Road in North Raleigh, run by some of the most dedicated people you’ll ever meet.  This casual, local-friendly and family-friendly hotspot has something for everyone, and offers it up affordably.  In addition to great food, they have 18 TVs showing all the NHL, NASCAR, NFL, NBA and college ball you can handle, two dart boards, two pool tables, and at least one activity every night ranging from karaoke to pool or poker tournaments to live bands.   If you want to know where it’s happening, the answer is always Tailgaters.

For those of you who know what spiedies are, you’ll be happy you now know the ONLY restaurant in the Triangle that serves them!   For those of you who don’t know, Speidies (pronounced “speedies”), are marinated cubes of meat cooked on a skewer and served as a sandwich on Italian bread with more sauce poured on. Originally from Abruzzi, Italy , this delicacy is served mainly in the central portion of the Southern Tier of New York state. A variety of meats are used, but Tailgaters serves steak and chicken right now.  The cubes of meat are marinated in a signature oil, vinegar and garlic sauce, which tenderizes the meat to what spiedie lovers claim is perfection.

In addition to the spiedies, the menu at Tailgaters is as flexible as they come.   Everything is customizable, from the build your own pizza, salad and burger options, to the wings which come Louisiana-style (breaded) or Buffalo-style (unbreaded) with a variety of sauces.   Adding pepperoni, chili, chopped steak or any topping to any menu item is what they expect and enjoy.  There’s no pressure to eat health food here, just good food.   Try the Coney Island Hot Dog for a mere $1.50, and add a basket of fries for $2.00!  The best on their menu, though, is the Fried Pepperoni sandwich, which is an open-faced Italian sub toasted with provolone, ham, pepperoni and covered in full-flavored seasonings.

To wash it all down, and perhaps to soften the blow of how badly you just crooned out “When Doves Cry” in front of 50 people, you have plenty of options too.   There’s a huge beer selection and a full bar to suit anyone’s needs.  Ask for Kari’s Special, which is her personal  blend of Frangelico, Chambord, and secret ingredients. There’s also her peanut butter & jelly shooter.  Unbelievable how much this tastes like the real thing!   Fun selection of “tinis” to choose from too.   Try the Dry Rob Roy Tini (scotch, dry vermouth) and the  Kazi Tini (vodka, triple sec, lime juice).

Check out their website – www.tailgaterssportsbar.com – to see just how much is happening every single night of the week.  Pick a night then stop in to Tailgaters sometime this week to see Jerry, Kari and Mike.   Have a seat in front of the big screen TV, order some wings and a cold beer, and take it all in.  I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.  Since there’s never a cover, what have you got to lose.

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White Collar Crime

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

White Collar Crime
319 West Davie St.
Raleigh, NC 27607
919-828-0055

December 28, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight editor)

There is nothing like being part of a crowd at an event, because the feeling of a great shared experience is infectious and illuminates your soul. You become a part of something much larger than yourself, feeling a spiritual connection growing out of the celebration. Recognizing the wild potential in the tradition of Koh Phangan, Suratthani Thailand, where thousands of partiers go wild on the beach once a month to revel in the full moon night, White Collar Crime has begun its own Full Moon Party series, in the hopes of inciting a frenzied fete Raleigh can call its own.

Mimi was with ZSpotlight to join in the celebration of White Collar Crime’s First Full Moon Party, and it certainly marked the beginning of something most promising. The alcohol was flowing freely, the band was soulful and energizing, and the crowd was raging well into an otherwise quiet and subdued Wednesday night. It was every bit of the “Night of Total Lunacy” we were promised.

The launch of this Full Moon event was sponsored in part by Absolut, which meant two large Absolut bottle-shaped ice sculptures were perched on both bars with tunnels for vodka (or other) shots and shooters. In addition to the unbelievable drink specials, we also had plenty of free and delicious giveaways to indulge in. If there’s a better way to kick a party into high gear, I have yet to see it!

Around 10PM , the band started in. White Collar Crime is known for offering an eclectic and progressive lineup of cool music, and again this night they did not disappoint. The band’s volume, unlike most live shows, did not forcefully attack and dominate the scene. Instead Organix’s (www.organixmusic.com ) fresh and creative style immediately stole everyone’s attention and held it all night long. McLain Sullivan’s soulful vocals mesmerized the crowd and kept things simmering. Jazz, funk, hip hop and rap never sounded so enlightening, or so sexy.

For those of you who aren’t (yet) regulars at White Collar Crime, you don’t need the enticement of the Full Moon Party to check out this cool, trendy and industrial old Wells Fargo vault in Raleigh’s warehouse district. Any night of the week you’ll find engaging bartenders, great drinks, surrealist local art, a highly diverse but surprisingly well-blended and friendly crowd, and fun music, ranging from 80′s retro to newer hip hop, house and danceable tunes. Whether it’s after work or late night partying you’re hoping to find, you’ll discover something going on at White Collar Crime. Don’t be surprised to see someone break out the hula hoops or start a break dancing “fight” just for kicks.

And the best enticement of all? Exclusive and free parking lot across the street for WCC patrons from 6PM to 4AM every night. When’s the last time you had it that easy in downtown Raleigh?

Every month, whether the full moon falls on a Saturday or a Tuesday night, White Collar Crime promises to have the moon balloon flying outside and a mad party raging inside. They are determined to awaken the smoldering urges to go wild inside each and every one of us. I, for one, am awaiting the next celebration of our lunacy anxiously, but I guarantee I won’t wait a full month before heading back to get in on the action. It’s almost criminal how insane the party can get, any night of the week, and I don’t intend to miss it.

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Legends

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Legends
330 W. Hargett St.
Raleigh, NC
919-831-8888

August 12, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight editor)

With its reputation for serving up the hottest dance tracks, renowned drag performances, and electrifying party atmosphere it is not surprising that Legends is one of the hottest nightspots in Raleigh. What is surprising is the eclectic mix of partygoers I witnessed at Legend’s much celebrated “First Friday” amateur drag performance. There are plenty of well groomed gay men, scattered groups of rugged looking womyn, as well as straight couples holding each others hands in a death grip to announce to the world they are taken. There was even a bachelorette party in attendance as evidenced by a gaggle of ladies feeding drinks to a woman adorned in a wedding veil and other saucy accoutrement.

Upon arrival, one can’t help but be impressed by the tastefully decorated L shaped bar. Hipsters from all walks of life lined up to be served drinks by stylishly well toned bartenders, while others played pool, or cautiously made their way to the dance floor too see if others were dancing yet. When it was my turn to order a cocktail, the bartender informed me that martinis were only served at The View, Legend’s brand new smoke-free video lounge.

The View is accessible by a separate entrance in the back. You may also enter it by walking back through Legend’s elegant outdoor patio where cosmopolitan looking people lounged comfortably in the summer heat by the Zen water fountain.

The View is a swank little room adorned with warm hues, plush couches, and numerous flat panel lcd screens showing music videos. This lounge is a space for people to relax and enjoy a martini (as I promptly did), read publications like Vanity Fair or Curve, or simply hold a conversation without having to talk over the din of pulse-pounding dance music.

No sooner did I order my martini did I hear music heralding the beginning of the amateur drag performances, or “talent show” as they sometimes referred to it. Back at the dance floor I was positively dazzled by the area drag queen and drag kings as they performed in competition for cash prizes and the chance to return to future drag pageants. After the winners were announced the crowd broke out in a frenzy of dancing. I, of course, returned to The View for another delicious martini.

In the 11 years it has served the LGBTQ community, Legends has become a veritable institution of Raleigh nightlife. They offer drink specials every night and exhibit drag performances from nationally acclaimed performers every Sunday. It is open every day of the week with the dance floor opening at 9pm and The View opening at 5pm. Wednesdays are “Womyn’s night” at The View and Sunday night offers up “L Dances”, a sort of variation on “T Dances” for the Sapphic crowd. Whether you are babe looking to dance all night or a corporate type looking to unwind after a hard day at work, Legends offers the finest in Raleigh entertainment.

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Oh’Mulligans

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Oh’Mulligans
100 Jerusalem Drive
Morrisville, NC 27560
919.465.1900

July 27, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight Nightlife/Restaurant Editor)

According to the menu at the new sports bar Oh’Mulligans in Morrisville, they’re “the hometown sports pub, grill and restaurant that offers more for the family.” As surprising as it is to hear a reference to family in the former sketchy Out of the Park’s location, it’s also a great relief. A fresh start is exactly what this spot needed. If the old Out of the Park bar and restaurant left more than a bad taste in your mouth, you’ll be excited to know the new management has created a new feel altogether and totally turned it around.

So, what’s in store for you at Oh’Mulligans? On the surface, it’s your typical sports bar with sports logos on the walls, pool tables, and big screen TVs. They have a full bar, offering food and drink specials most nights. But what really makes this place special is the easy-going and carefree people. The bar and wait staff is always good-natured and polite, and very playful at times. The spirited character attracts the other service industry people in the area, like the Texas Roadhouse and Hooters staff from down the street, which is always the sign of a truly cool bar.

As for the drinks, if you enjoy the standard Anheuser-Busch offerings, you’ll be pleased, but if you like microbrews or anything distinctive, you’ll find their beer list unexceptional. They do offer Iron City and IC Lite, but if you’re not from Picksburgh, you won’t understand. Their wine list also needs some serious attention, as not-so-great and worse are the only two choices. They will gladly do frou-frou drinks for you, but shots and highballs are pretty much the norm here.

Oh’Mulligans offers all your typical bar food like wings, burgers and lots of fried appetizers, but their menu holds more than a few surprises on the entree list like Chicken Tampico and the Grilled Black Angus Ribeye. For a sports bar, the food is uncommonly healthy and well-prepared.

You won’t find much of an RTP happy hour crowd here. It’s more of an evening and night local crowd, enjoying the competition of the APA Pool League, and everyone’s favorite, worldtavernpoker.com Texas Hold’em tournaments on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Game nights are big too, and Oh’Mulligans proudly caters to fans of University of Michigan, Penn State and the Pittsburgh Steelers (to name a few). That’s great news for those of you find the scene at Sammy’s too college-y for your tastes.

Now is the perfect time to give the new Oh’Mulligans a try, for a departmental lunch, after work drinks or some late-night Texas Hold ‘em, as they are trying hard to overcome the stigma and are out to prove the new staff, new menu, and new management cleaned this space up nicely.

ohmulligans

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Federal

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Federal
914 West Main Street
Durham NC 27701
919.680.8611

July 9, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight Nightlife/Restaurant Editor)

So you’ve heard people talking about this cool place called The Federal over by Brightleaf Square. But what do they mean by “cool”, you’re ask? When describing restaurants and bars, cool can mean a comfortable lounge, an intriguing clientele, an ingenious gimmick, or in some cases, just a low setting on the A/C. Stealing a line from the indie movie Satellite, The Federal embodies this simple definition: “Being cool is lacking self-consciousness and embracing whoever you are.” The Federal doesn’t have to try to be cool. It just is.

This spare, clean and often noisy, but completely laid-back, establishment is actually much more comfortable and approachable than it first appears. Sure, the service is at times quite uninspired, but the mellow hipsters here find this easy to overlook. The retro decor, from the booths and tables inside to the patio outside, gives a sociable garage feel to The Federal. Older and more progressive than the crowd at its partner, The Joyce, next door, patrons gather in this small vintage themed bar for cheap beer and a chance to chill among friends. Curiously, this tobacco-themed bar is not typically hazy with cigarette smoke. Oh, and did I mention it’s also highly affordable?

The Federal offers beer specials almost every night, a beer of the month, and a surprisingly respectable number of wines by the glass, but it’s often the better-than-average food you’ll hear raves about. Sure, they have the standard bare fare — burgers, fries, nachos and such — but each one is prepared above and beyond your normal expectations. Imagine a burger on a hefty kaiser roll with salty Gruyere and bacon, and a fresh salad or soup on the side. Dinner here, which also includes many good entrees and even desserts, is definitely worth checking out.

Finally, the coolest draw of all is The Federal’s stimulating music events. Many nights they have a DJ spinning an eclectic and progressive mix of indie rock, soul, funk, garage, reggae and such from a small DJ booth inside the main bar area. Plug in to their website — thefederal.net — for details.

Cool has always existed in Durham. To discover one of the newest imanifestations of coolness, grab a friend and settle in for a satisfying meal, a couple beers and some groovin tunes at The Federal.

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James Joyce Pub

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

James Joyce Pub
912 W. Main St.
Durham, NC 27701
919-683-3022

July 8, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight Nightlife/Restaurant Editor)

I’m embarrassed to admit I’ve passed by the James Joyce Irish Pub at Brightleaf Square a thousand times and never really noticed it. What a shame, because I found out last night the merrymaking I’ve been missing all this time. This vibrant little pub is by far no ordinary Dukie bar, holding the most fascinating mix of patrons from grad students to colorful locals to, yes, college students. Peeking in on Tuesday’s Trivia Night proved I’ve been a fool to overlook the high-spiritedness of this little gem. This weeknight crowd was overflowing onto the sidewalk and even into The Federal next door!

Named after the famous Irish writer, this pub is indeed Irish through and through. From the moment you enter the door, the old world charm is overwhelming and highly inviting, never for a minute allowing you to feel anything but comfortable and right at home. A gracious member of the staff will be more than happy to help you choose from the large selection of brews and stouts, and all the traditional Irish dishes available on their all-day menu. Although my Fish & Chips were rather ordinary, raves resounded at our table over the Beef & Guinness Stew and the Shepherd’s Pie.

Do not come just for the food, though, as you’d miss the real reason to hit the Joyce. This place is about drinking great beer and enjoying friendly competition, whether it’s watching your favorite rugby or football teams on the TV or muscling your way through the dark, smoky, cozy corridor to score a prime location for you and your friends. Believe it, even Trivia Night is competitive, so come early (sign up until 10PM), grab a table if you can, and don’t forget your thinking cap.

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Rudino’s Roof Top

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Rudino’s Roof Top
8800 Harvest Oaks Dr Ste 108
Raleigh, NC 27615
(919) 848-0482

July 2, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight Nightlife/Restaurant Editor)

Perched atop a roof in a quiet suburban shopping center in North Raleigh is surprisingly where you’ll find one of the Triangle’s liveliest sports bars. Here, and you thought Rudino’s just had pizza and grinders! For the most part you’d be right — they’re “the lunch pizza buffet place” around town — but this one Rudino’s location rocks the otherwise subdued area every night of the week.

Forget that they have a full bar and plenty of beer on tap. Forget that they have some of the best pizza and grinders anywhere. Forget that they have dart boards, a jukebox and other distractions for non-game nights. What makes this sports bar the place to be is a location starving for nightlife, prompt (and I must admit, very young and attractive) service, and a TV screen, or three, within sight of every single seat inside or out. There’s no question why, i f there are races or games to watch, the patio at Rudino’s Rooftop will be standing room only, even on a Monday night.

Now you might be thinking, come on, this is North Raleigh, so just how much fun can it be? You’d be surprised at how very diverse the crowd can become. This is not just the predictable crowd of upper middle class North Raleighites, sipping martinis and discussing the stock market. The open air patio and great view attracts sports fans of all ages and backgrounds, from a few professionals out for happy hour to a group of guys just off their motorcycles after a brisk afternoon of riding. Approachable and unpretentious, there’s nowhere in the area where you can get a large cheesy pizza, a big icy cold beer, watch the race AND meet such a vast array of real and friendly people.

In addition to the sports theme, Rudino’s Rooftop also offers live music many nights of the week, just to mix things up. Check out this hidden gem just off Strickland Road on Harvest Oaks and let me know if you agree with me that it’s exactly the sports bar North Raleigh needs.

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Crowleys Restaurant & Bar at Stonehenge

June 27, 2009 By zspotblog

Crowleys Restaurant & Bar at Stonehenge
7330 Creedmoor Road
Raleigh, NC 27613
919-676-343

Ocotber 18, 2005
By Mimi (ZSpotlight editor)

Can you remember a time when good old Crowley ‘s didn’t exist? Whether at Dixie Trail, off Edwards Mill, or at Stonehenge, there’s always been a Crowley’s neighborhood bar eager to satisfy our thirst and offer a safe haven from the stresses of Triangle life. Of all the Crowley’s we’ve seen over time, the one at Stonehenge has become the enduring success. For years it has happily provided the people of North Raleigh a hearty environment for drinking, dining, blowing off steam, relaxing, and generally living it up Southern style.

Unlike the original Crowley ‘s inside the beltline, parking at Stonehenge is abundant, but cabs are few and very far between. And for good reason: this is a neighborhood corner bar, first and foremost for the neighborhood. They realize most people rarely venture far from home in search of alcohol, a decently priced meal, and a familiar face. That’s why the no fuss attitude at Crowley’s works so well. You won’t see fancy prices or attitudes, and definitely no “reinvention” or cheap gimmicks. This is a prime example of the timeless and traditional Average Joe bar: not a lounge, a café or a bistro, no WIFI, no corporate fare, no fancy-schmancy martini list, no trendiness at all. What you get here is an inherently comfortable and friendly atmosphere, a cold beer or strong highball, a loud band playing danceable music late into the night, and the firm expectation to let loose and have some fun.

Most nights, Crowley ‘s at Stonehenge is packed with an unpretentious crowd of people college age to late middle age in jeans and T-shirts. Don’t bother to dress to impress here, as comfort is key and pretension is most certainly not. This crowd is sports fans watching one of the 12 TVs, community league players celebrating a win or drowning a loss, regulars, and casual locals who’ve just eaten in the dining room checking out the scene at the bar before heading home. All in all, this low-key, dark and delightful bar attracts a truly Raleigh-based crowd. There are certainly regulars, but on any given night there is sure to be a wide range of characters. Even if you’ve never been before, below the buzz of conversation you’ll find the crowd welcoming. Expect people to notice you and talk to you, intrigued and happy to meet future Crowley’s regulars. Maybe everybody doesn’t know your name here, but if you make a few return visits, they soon will.

The most important thing to realize is that Crowley’s rocks late night every night. There is no “off” night here. If you’re looking for energy, Crowley’s is the place to be after 10PM . You never know what you’ll find of the variety of music they play, anything in the classics of rock, reggae, beach and soul, with a splash of funk. The crowd works itself into a sweaty frenzy dancing to it all, and will be disappointed if you don’t join in!

Here’s what they have going on in a typical week:

Live soul music on Mondays
- Texas Hold ‘Em World Tavern Poker Tour on Tuesdays
- Hump Day Island Party on Wednesdays with live reggae by The Amateurs
- Open mic night on Thursdays
- Live music by one of many favorite local bands, like Crush, on Fridays
- DJ Dance Party on Saturdays
- NFL Football all day, Karaoke all night with Wanda Thompson on Sundays

Any night of the week, there’s something lively and social at Crowley’s, which begs the question: with a great bar like this just minutes from your house, why go anywhere else?

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