Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Killjoy

    4.4 (111 reviews)
    Open 5:00 pm - 1:00 am (Next day)
    Updated over 3 months ago

    Services - Killjoy

    Bartending services

    Post-event cleaning services

    On-site management services

    Killjoy Photos

    KILLJOY ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Classy
    Dogs allowed
    Outdoor seating

    Recommended Reviews - Killjoy

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Holiday drinks
    Markiesa B.

    I came here for an offline event to check out the Christmas theme bar. The cocktail menu was kind of big and had lot of choices. Some of the drinks came in cute holiday mug style cups. I got a Christmas cosmo and it was really good. They had a few different colored theme rooms for Christmas and a selfie room. The bartender was very helpful and there was plenty of seating inside and out. Would come to this place again.

    Mojito, Brooklyn
    Kellie D.

    It has been years since we went to Killjoy but I am so glad we ventured back in! The cocktails are out of this world, bartenders are friendly and it is a Christmas wonderland right now! I ordered the Yippee Ki Yay which was absolutely amazing. Great flavor and a fun purple color from the ube. Husband ordered the Krampus which was super spicy! He likes spicy things but this one was definitely a supper. So while he sipped on that I ordered the Christmasopolitan which was also nicely done. Overall a fabulous evening out for cocktails.

    Miracle Pop-Up #TisTheSZN
    Juliet H.

    What a gorgeous backdrop for a crafty cocktail bar (even better during the holidays)! Hubs and I stopped by for the Miracle at Killjoy and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and the stellar decor. This is actually one of the nicest Miracle Pop-Up venues I've visited, and I've visited a lot! The cocktails are tasty, the bartenders are friendly, the service is prompt, and the holiday cheer runneth over at Killjoy. #TisTheSZN

    Joel J.

    This place was great! We came on a Sunday night and the bartender was friendly and nice. He was attentive, and made recommendations. As for the location, it's well kept with plenty of space. The drinks themselves were amazing, with a wide selection to choose from. Fairly priced as well though it can be tricky not to get carried away so be cautious. A nice touch I noticed was that the bathrooms contained mints and mouthwash for one to freshen up. All in all, it was a nice experience and I'll def be back again.

    One of my cocktails - look at the pink cowboy/derby hat
    Amanda P.

    My friends and I were going out for a girls night and I found Killjoy on my search for fun bars. It DID NOT DISAPPOINT. The bartenders were so attentive and fun, the cocktails were delicious, they have a great variety, and the presentation was beautiful (one of mine came with a pink cowboy hat). There are two different lounge-style rooms and the one next to us was playing Bob Ross on the tv. If you're looking for a bar that checks all the boxes - delicious, affordable, atmosphere, and Instagram-worthy photo ops - you cannot miss Killjoy!

    Dirty Martini
    Diandra L.

    Discovering new cocktail bars while traveling is always a must for me. I was recently in Raleigh and found myself wanting to grab a night cap after a long day. Yelp brought me to Killjoy and I was so happy to have discovered it. First of all, the decor is great. There's a large main room with a pretty big bar, as well as a room on the side that has quirky yet welcoming decor. Since it was a weeknight it was pretty empty, but I didn't mind the chill vibes. My bartender was super nice and made a great dirty martini. Their liquor selection seems extensive, and their cocktail menu was impressive too. It's open late, and the drinks are well priced. Would definitely go back.

    Jessica M.

    If you're looking to get poppin on a Tuesday, definitely come to Killjoy! They're starting R&B night on Tuesdays and the deejay is fireeee. He lit up the dance floor not only with his charming smile, but his beats. Not a large area to dance at, but I'm sure they'll make improvements with this! They've got such great cocktails, the ambiance is Instagrammable, and the bartenders are friendly and attentive. If you're coming with a large group, you're able to reserve tables! They also have outdoor seating as well if you want a quieter place to chat. Highly recommend this spot for visitors!

    Cute  photo opportunity on the flower wall.
    Falan E.

    Visited on December 21, 2022 and 12/31/2022 I love the space here and how it speaks to a more professional crowd of adults. The cocktails are always great. No complaints there. I wouldn't say I like this new service vibe here, Kill Joy. No host at the door. No warm welcome, no greetings, or anything. These proactive things I've mentioned added value and set KillJoy apart from all the typical bars in this area. The service here has declined significantly, and I'm assuming this is the economic decline or a change in management. Or perhaps business is slow, and the extra pleasantries and warm and polite approach are no longer part of killJoy. I witnessed poor service on (Thursday) evening when there were only five customers in the bar, and I was surprised. KillJoy is a spot I have frequented over the last two years for many special occasions. I think the person behind the bar was not present to acknowledge customers unless you were sitting at the bar. He was just there scrolling through his phone and socializing with an employee. A guy in a group of three asked how they could get drinks, and I pointed to the bartender. Since there was never an acknowledgment, those 3 customers walked out. I did speak to the manager (off duty but in the back). She came out. I want to say her name is Kat. Not apologetic at all: but said the bartender serves who approach him, and that's KillJoy style now. Strange. I was invited back here on NYE and joined a table a friend purchased, and the same "approaching" service was required even after my friend paid for the table and bottle. Not sure about the details of her package, but it's odd to have customers who reserved tables approach the bar themselves. Are you all short-staffed? You were not even that crowded, NYE. I love this place for how it used to be, but I guess all good things end.

    Vanessa D.

    Came here on a Saturday evening around 730pm The place was maybe less than half full. Great looking spot, bright with plenty of comfy seating. The bartender was a bit cold and ZERO help. This is the convo I had with her Me: do you all have mezcal? Her: yes (she names them off, tbh idk types like that) Me: bottom shelf? Her (knowingly smiles) Me: any cocktail recommendations with mezcal ? Her: besides Margarita, I wouldn't know. Wait what?! This is a cocktail bar isn't it? I have never been to a cocktail bar where the bartender couldn't put together a customer's drink based on preference of liquor. I was thrown. The conversation itself was fine, it was just the interaction in general too with the rest of our party that was cold. She then runs all our cards and doesn't even ask if we wanna close out. It wasn't till we were leaving that I realized we never got the bill. I always close out so when she handed me my card initially, I thought it was closed (even though it should have registered that I never got the bill to sign). Anyway, she wasn't the greatest. The person we closed out with was better. The DJ was just setting up for afrobeats night but we had to leave unfortunately. The place was super empty by then. Hopefully it filled up later. It was all before 9pm. I forgot to mention I got the Texas Tini. It was okay. Maybe I'd be back. Not sure.

    Cristina S.

    This place is amazing! I came here with my friend to celebrate her birthday in December. The Christmas decorations were perfect! The drinks also came in cool cups and were delicious! The service was fantastic. We spent most of the night there just and I have to say, I'm pretty pleased and will definitely be back.

    What In Carnation & Orange Peel Theory
    Megan H.

    We had a great experience at Killjoy. We showed up right when they opened and had two rounds of drinks. It was packed because of a networking event but we had a great time anyway. Our service was speedy and delightful with well crafted beverages. Bring your phone for a photo op against the wallpaper in this place. The walls and decor are EVERYTHING. Even in the restroom. I loved the "What in Carnation" and can't wait to return to get it again.

    Outside
    Carmen H.

    Killjoy was such a hidden gem. Super eclectic! I loved everything about the interior decor. We came at the perfect time because there weren't many people there, so we could really enjoy ourselves and all of the seating areas. We tried a few drinks like the beach bonfire, old fashioned and the grass is greener. All of the drinks were so good and the bartenders were helpful. Around 9pm, there's a DJ that comes in. More people definitely started coming around that time, so if you're look for good drinks and vibes, check out Killjoy!

    James H.

    One of the bars with the nicest aesthetic in Raleigh. On the weekends, it is live music and they can get really fun during the week is very chill.

    French Kiss

    See all

    4 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    9 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Lisa J.

    Lisa J.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Juliet H.
    4999
    1495
    20190

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 14
    Thanks 3
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Amanda P.
    405
    64
    44

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 13
    Thanks 1
    Love this 16
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Cameron T.

    Cameron T.

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of James H.
    136
    34
    8

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Cameron T.

    Cameron T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Cameron T.

    Cameron T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Cameron T.

    Cameron T.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    This place is definitely a vibe! The bartenders will take good care of you! Please visit asap!

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kitzie S.
    24
    22
    16

    5 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Cameron T.

    Cameron T.

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 13
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Alex H.
    0
    20
    12

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Raleighwood C.

    Raleighwood C.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Lisa J.

    Lisa J.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 3
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ida B.
    490
    35
    256

    6 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Lisa J.

    Lisa J.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Lisa J.

    Lisa J.

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Lisa J.

    Lisa J.

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 4
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Cameron T.

    Cameron T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Lisa J.

    Lisa J.

    Helpful 11
    Thanks 0
    Love this 10
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Lisa J.

    Lisa J.

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Cameron T.

    Cameron T.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Killjoy

    Are dogs allowed here? Is there an outdoor patio area?

    Hi, Shannon! Yes, please feel free to visit us on our patio with your pup.

    What kind of parking is near here? Im coming from out of town and now much for maneuvering downtown...

    Hi, Holly! There is a nice variety of parking available. Our friends at the Downtown Raleigh Alliance have put together a great guide at https://downtownraleigh.org/getting-around/parking… 

    View All 3 Questions

    FOUNDATION - Seasonal menu and famous Appletini which is not to be missed!!

    FOUNDATION

    4.4(331 reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$

    This is a whiskey lover's dream and one of Raleigh's most unique drinking destinations. It's quite…read moreliterally underground as it's in a basement. With little signage the space feels like a natural speakeasy. It's unpolished enough to feel a little sleazy, yet polished enough to never feel dirty. In other words, it has character, and plenty of it. The bartenders were fantastic: knowledgeable, talented, and happy to chat about the spirits behind the bar. Whether you're a serious whiskey enthusiast or just looking for a well-made cocktail, you're in good hands. Being open later than most Raleigh bars makes Foundation one of the city's go-to late-night options, but that shouldn't overshadow what it really is........a great bar at any hour. The atmosphere, the drinks, and the people behind the bar make this a place worth seeking out whether it's your first stop of the evening or your last.

    Came here before dinner and had a great time. Even though it's a speakeasy, it was pretty easy to…read morefind. The menu leans heavily toward whiskey and bourbon, with lots of solid options. I had their basil smash, which was refreshing, and the Manhattan--bold with a warm, spicy profile. Pleasant surprise to see Michter's as the special of the night, and it was excellent with smooth caramel and vanilla notes. Service started off a little hands-off since we ordered at the bar, but picked up toward the end when staff came by to check in. Drinks were high quality without being overpriced, and the vibe is relaxed--not at all pretentious. You can definitely come casual. If we had more time, we would've stayed longer or come back for another round.

    Photos
    FOUNDATION - South side

    South side

    FOUNDATION - Foundation old fashioned

    Foundation old fashioned

    FOUNDATION - Coquito

    See all

    Coquito

    Bittersweet - Bubbles and cupcake special

    Bittersweet

    4.4(484 reviews)
    0.5 mi
    $$

    What a fabulous dessert shop! Perfect place to grab an after dinner cocktail and dessert and…read moreconveniently located near St Roch Oyster Bar which is where we had dinner. Service was top notch with friendly folks greeting you the moment you enter the doors. Our bartender was so sweet and so welcoming. Had me a $10 Paloma cocktail that was just right and went to town on dessert. Everything was just delicious. Fresh made whip cream, perfectly balanced sweetness with the desserts and cute atmosphere. Loved my first time here and it won't be my last!

    Bittersweet has amazing desserts and drinks. I've been several times and each time I enjoy what…read moreI've had. A solid go-to is their s'mores sundae which is sooo good! The chocolate brownie is thick and rich, but not too sweet, and the marshmallow cream is divine, especially with the ice cream. A lot of their drinks and gin based, which I'm not the biggest fan of, but I always find something I can enjoy. The service is great and relatively quick, and everyone I've met there is kind and willing to help. The inside is a bit small, so smaller crowds are better and it does tend to get crowded later in the evening and on weekends. The outside street sitting area is nice too and hopefully will be fully fixed soon. Overall a great places to stop for drinks and desserts after a nice meal! And the menu rotates seasonally so you'll always have the chance to try something new!

    Photos
    Bittersweet - Chai espresso martini

    Chai espresso martini

    Bittersweet - Derby Pie and Gin n Tonic

    Derby Pie and Gin n Tonic

    Bittersweet - Pecan pie

    See all

    Pecan pie

    Cuya

    Cuya

    4.5(32 reviews)
    0.3 mi

    I can't say enough about Cuya! From the amazing food and secret hits (they have pastelón! Iykyk),…read moreto the excellent drinks, and gorgeous vibe - I can't say enough! But the hospitality took it over the top- our wonderful server was so friendly and kind and on her game. And the owner as well. He is so gracious and warm and just out there with his guests! It was a very relaxed chic vibe with music and low light and then he went around to every table to ask if they had interest in watching the World Cup game (England v Norway). Luckily everyone said yes and then the vibe was all heart and all love. We stayed for HOURS & didn't want to go. lol. This was our first time in RTP, and as New York foodie snobs, we were blown away by the food scene and overall vibe. LOVE Cuya & really dig RTP!

    I really enjoyed my visit here for brunch. I didn't realize from the outside how much seating is…read moreinside this restaurant; they have a front area that has bright lighting, but they also have a back area that's a little bit more moody and sexy. Our server Maria was amazing, she gave us great recommendations and was very nice and accommodating. Actually, everyone was accommodating. I had a strawberry coconut Mojito to start, which was good, but maybe just a tad more bitter than I like. But I did love how creamy it was. For my meal I ordered the breakfast sandwich and added bacon. It was really really good. I also tasted the grits and wow, they may have been the best grits I've ever had. I believe the chef added garlic and it really kicked the flavor up a notch. All in all had an amazing experience here and I couldn't recommend it more.

    Photos
    Cuya - Très lèche

    Très lèche

    Cuya
    Cuya - La Tripleta Sandwich

    See all

    La Tripleta Sandwich

    Whiskey Kitchen - Cracklin' Biscuits

    Whiskey Kitchen

    4.0(797 reviews)
    0.4 mi
    $$

    Stopped by Whiskey Kitchen for drinks after eating nearby. When you arrive parking can be a little…read moredifficult in this area as you'll either need to parallel park or find parking in a nearby lot. Walking in to Whiskey Kitchen it feels easy going, stylish, and lively. The bartender was super knowledgeable about the different drinks and made the experience even more memorable, For drinks I ordered the Old Fashioned (Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, Sugar, Bitters, Orange), Twist of Fate (Old Forester Bourbon, Campari, Averna Amaro, Jamaican Rum, Bitters), and the Blush & Brimstone (Cook's Mill Bourbon, Pink Peppercorn Grapefruit Syrup, Lemon-Ginger Juice, Rosemary Peppercorn Bitters). By far the Blush & Brimstone was my favorite as it had the right level of spice and it was just a good drink. Definitely check out Whiskey Kitchen if you are in the Downtown Raleigh area. Btw, if you go here for dinner I hear that the Lamb Burger is excellent.

    If bourbon and whiskey choices were a personality trait, The Whiskey Kitchen would definitely have…read morecommitment issues...because the selection is massive. Seriously, if you can't find a pour you like here, you may just need water instead. Started with the biscuits topped with crackling and house-made preserves, and honestly, that combo alone made me question why I don't eat more biscuits in life. Sweet, salty, buttery chaos in the best way. For the main, I went with the pork chop and greens. The chop leaned a little overcooked for me personally, but the sauce helped bring things back together and added good flavor. The greens had a nice little kick of heat, but I kept waiting for that deep smoky ham hock flavor to show up like an old Southern grandma entering the kitchen... and it never quite arrived. Overall though? Still a solid meal, strong whiskey program, cool atmosphere, and definitely worth checking out if you're in Raleigh looking for a bourbon-forward dinner spot. Travelin_Broke approved with a slight side-eye from the greens.

    Photos
    Whiskey Kitchen - Whiskey Flights

    Whiskey Flights

    Whiskey Kitchen - Smoked mozzarella salad with fried chicken

    Smoked mozzarella salad with fried chicken

    Whiskey Kitchen - The Botanist and Paper Plane

    See all

    The Botanist and Paper Plane

    Postino Village District

    Postino Village District

    4.4(230 reviews)
    1.0 mi
    $$
    Happy hour specials
    Catering service

    First time here. Been wanting to come for a while and so glad I did. I arrived and it was already…read morepacked at 530 on Saturday. Outdoor seating looked really nice. Wish it wasn't 100 out. Good reason to come back. Started with prickly pear margarita with mescal. Yum! Had a white wine after. It was ok. My friend and I shared 4 bruschetta's- smoked salmon and pesto, artichoke, caprese, and apple, Brie and fig. Favs were smoked salmon and apple and Brie. The fries were amazing. Salmon board was good too. The bread on the board was much better than the bruschetta. Ambiance is great. Service as well. Will be back!

    Absolutely love Postino! This is my go to lunch spot with coworkers. We've been numerous times…read moreand are never disappointed. My go to meal is the half panini and tomato soup. Their roast beef panini is on par with Portillo's a long standing Chicago beef restaurant (IYKYK). I've NEVER had a beef sandwich that was better than Portillo's but Postino you managed to take a hometown classic and elevate it to a point beyond my expectations - if you get this sandwich I recommend getting it on the ciabatta bread versus focaccia. Let's not overlook the tomato soup - it's so rich and flavorful. For a lighter lunch my go to is the tuna panini with broccoli salad. They are known for their boards, I've not had the bruschetta yet but it looks delicious. My favorite board is the hummus. One thing I hate is when a restaurant gives you a big bowl of hummus and not enough pita. That is not the case here, you'll get pita, toasted bread, and a variety of vegetables to scoop up the velvety humus covered in cherry tomatoes, red onion and feta. For date night enjoy a Violet Femme a gin cocktail that tastes as lovely as it looks. The service here is top notch! Everyone is fantastic. I'll have to come back to this review to note the serves names we've had because they have all been exceptional. Now let's talk about the vibe! Postino's nailed the indoor/outdoor feel. Plenty of windows that are open on nice days, plants galore and the decor gives you a cool like rockstar but classy feel. 5 stars doesn't feel like enough.

    Photos
    Postino Village District
    Postino Village District
    Postino Village District

    See all

    Killjoy - cocktailbars - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...