Visiting town and was brought to Architect by 2 friends, who both had never been but only heard. It was my 21st birthday weekend and I'm not a vegas girl at all. I just wanted small, intimate, unique....all that jazz. We heard there's usually a password but for the weekend there's a number to text. A person inside architect overheard us talking about it and gave us the number. Within 5 minutes of texting we got a reply and a reservation time for 11:30, which was only an hour away from the time that we arrived. There's a green light right as you get to the top of the stairs in architect off to your right. And near it is a booth and some bookshelves. As the night gets busy you see the bookcase opening and closing, so it's obvious at that point where it is, but be warned that there is a bouncer and some security around. (we witnessed a girl just try to walk right in with no reservation and she was kicked out of Greenlight and Architect). We did have to wait a bit longer than our reservation, for a table of 3 mind you, but the bouncer was super nice and apologized for the wait. Once you're inside you realize why you wait though, this place is tiny. No seriously....tiny. (Think your freshman year college dorm). We were handed menus, which were gorgeous and I'm sad I didn't get a picture, I really admired them. The drinks are pricey, but come on, what do you expect in a trendy secret speakeasy? My two friends didn't drink inside GL since they were driving. I ordered a "Captain's Blood" (since I'm Captain Barbosa...duh!). The wait for the drink took a while..weird since it was only one drink. But I wasn't too bothered. I had fun just sitting in the little area and feeling like one of the cool kids for a night. Our server was really cool (kinda hot...he can get it, yo....so can the bartender at Architect too). My drink was delicious and I happily paid my $11 (+ tip). And I will be back again...whenever I'm in town! read more

I'm actually pretty upset at myself for not knowing about this place sooner. I guess I don't go to the Architect enough to have noticed. Not stuck in some underground basement like your modern speakeasy, this one is right there, and actually has a view of the street. Most of the other similar, nearby bars such as Foundation, Fox's, and C Grace pack more people in. I like the small, exclusive space. It fits just enough people to be intimate, but not enough to be hectic. The space suits the two bartender limit. The classics are legitimate and not reinventions, while the house cocktails are quite unique. Like most craft cocktails, these take time to make. There isn't as much ice work as Fox's and not nearly as much fanfare, but these are fresh and superb. 4 stars for the cocktails alone. Don't expect much else in this small space. There's a secret # and a secret door. Secret nod and secret handshake optional. read more

Its behind a friggin' bookcase for gods sake! The cocktails are really good, its super cozy (room for maybe 20) and it has the feel of a real speakeasy (not that I'm old enough to know first had, but it feels illicit and hidden, what I would imagine real speakeasy's felt like) read more

First of all, this is a unique bar concept for downtown Raleigh. It is a hidden and exclusive prohibition-style bar with an extensive menu of craft cocktails. The major issue with this bar is the pretentious and downright rude attitude of the staff. After having a pleasant time on my first visit, I selected this location for drinks with friends on my birthday. Shortly after arriving, we were approached by Jeremy (obnoxious hipster bartender) who disrespectfully informed us that we needed to be quiet because, "I do not need to hear your conversation at the bar." We were laughing and talking, but had not been loud at all. Not to mention we were seated about 10 feet from the bar and trying to hear each other over the loud music seeping in from the bar next door. My friends were offended and asked to leave immediately. This is an unacceptable way to treat customers and I certainly will not return. If you want to enjoy your evening, avoid the uptight and snobbish atmosphere at this establishment. read more

Super cozy and exclusive atmosphere. The drinks are expensive, but not over-the-top considering how masterfully they are crafted. Reservations can be made through text message. Number can be found on their Twitter page. Great for an intimate date. read more

Loved this place! The only let down was it got a little loud when a big group of college students took over the corner tables. Other than that the drinks were AMAZING and the staff was pretty chill and down to earth. I'm a wife and mom so this place is perfect for my kind of night out. It's when I walked out of that bookcase and into the club I truly felt my age! :) read more

This is the "secret" speakeasy inside of The Architect. The place is a tiny little retreat from the noisy dance club outside. You need to text the number for these guys and set a "reservation". The inside is very very small and can probably hold around 15-20 people max. There's a small menu of fancy cocktails and house specials. The drinks here are pretty good, but really nothing particularly different from C Grace or Fox's. Drinks are in the $10 range fyi. read more

Horrible experience at the Green Light & can no longer recommend. I've been coming to this location (Architech/Greenlight) since moving to Raleigh ~6yrs ago. Recently had friends come visit from out of town so I figured I'd show them one of my favorite spots. Upon getting to the door the staff was abrasively rude, followed by the doorman berating the females in the group with a garage of profanity. The manager did nothing to rectify the situation with his employees & instead decided complacency was the best route. In years prior, the staff was wonderful & polite...things have changed. Do not recommend at all. read more

By far my favorite spot in Raleigh, I love Fox Liquor but Greenlight has my heart. The ambience is intimate and has a great vibe--you forget you're in Raleigh! I suggest ordering Meet Your Beet. Delicious! I even dream about it! read more

Delightfully hand crafted cocktails to match your individual tastes. Friendly service, fun atmosphere, knowledgable bar tenders and an overall great experience. Stumble upstairs to the Greenlight on your next downtown Raleigh adventure! read more

Drinking here is the same as being in the eye of the storm. The calmness that one experiences here is a relief against the drunken crowds.

Was in town visiting about 3 weeks ago and this place was recommended... Super sweet set up! Drinks were solid!

Super cool bar in Raleigh. Small, quaint and hidden. The cocktails are delicious every time.

Cocktail bar behind a bookcase in the Architect Bar. Friendly service and decent cocktails - but far from the expertise of those at the Fox Liquor Bar. read more

The Green Light - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I am a little partial, but I have to say that this is my favorite bar downtown. (Not that I get around or anything...) Comfy & cozy, great staff, and delicious cocktails... what more could you ask for?! Oh, well, other than being tucked away behind a secret bookshelf. Yep... that should do it! Go see for yourself... read more

Excellent craft cocktails. Very personable staff that we had fun conversation with. Intimate cute space hidden behind the bookcase in a much larger raucous bar scene. Look into texting for reservations if going on a weekend night which is something we didn't know we had to do. read more

Great cocktails! The bartenders are really nice and if you sit at the bar you can have a nice conversation with them and learn more about the drinks and the concept. This place is worth going. And the liquors are homemade. read more

Fantastic drinks. Lauren KILLS it. Makes all drinks to perfection and will recommend a custom drink based upon your taste and is on the money. If you enjoy crafted cocktails, this speak easy delivers. read more

A group of about 9 of us made a reservation for my mom's 51st birthday since it was a highly recommended place that she was eager to try out. The waitress from the place we had dinner at took forever to get our checks so a group of us went early to make our reservation. The guy at the door immediately had an attitude with us claiming that we were 40 minutes late. We pulled up the texts clearly showing that we had changed our reservation time and that it had been confirmed. Once we all arrived we were informed that only 7 of us would be allowed in, which is understandable considering the size of the actual bar, but was slightly disappointing. The drinks were amazing and you could tell each drink had been prepared with extreme attention to detail. The bartender even brought over a round of complimentary shots since our whole group wasn't able to make it in. The shots themselves were delicious and was a nice touch since my mom was disappointed that my brother and his girlfriend weren't able to join us (even though there were two open tables next to us the entire time we were there). I love everything about this place except for the snooty guy at the door which keeps me from giving 5 stars. read more

Jeffery is as much of a hidden gem as the bar itself: obscured, intimate and precious!! Jeffery whipped up the concoctions beyond the imaginations of this vodka girl could ever drum up. Seek it out if you dare to realize your dream-bartender-come-true. read more

The Green Light - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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My friends and I went to architect to get some cheaper drinks earlier on in the night. I knew about green light through my friends but had never been. So when we reached the top of the stairs, I saw the bouncer standing in front of the bookshelf. I just kind of asked, "are you guys pretty booked up tonight?" He said he could seat the four of us right then. The room was really cool. It's got a speakeasy vibe that feels pretty authentic and not at all forced. The drinks were super good all around. Only 4 stars because we were there for just one drink and it took us about an hour to get in and out. There was only one bartender and one server in the room, so service was pretty slow. Not a huge complaint, though. read more

What a gem in Raleigh. If you are looking for great classic cocktails in a small private club with bartenders that really know their stuff you will love it. If you are looking for a $6 gin and tonic with a crowd you should stay away. Hard to find but a well kept secret. read more

Amazing! Great drinks good atmosphere. Very cool speakeasy experience. Highly recommend

I have two weaknesses when it comes to cocktail bars: I LOVE a good rooftop or speakeasy. The green light is a hidden gem in downtown Raleigh that captures the essence of a true speakeasy during the prohibition era. I highly recommend this location as a great date night/first date spot. With classic artists like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, or Billie Holiday on in the background in a cozy, dimly lit bar, the atmosphere is truly intimate. The drink menu will take you out of your comfort zone and open your mind and taste buds to carefully crafted cocktails. The bartenders are knowledgeable and open minded. If you're unsure what to try, the staff is willing to listen to your likes and find the cocktail that fits you best. Pro Tip- due to the limited seating, make a reservation in advance (via text message), especially during the weekend. The bartender on this occasion truly worked his talents by taking advantage of the egg white foam and incorporating some food dye into the mix. If you ever ask me if you should go here, I'll always give it the green light read more

Greenlight is a beautiful bar and a great idea, but our experience was spoiled by rude service. Wife and I arrived at 6:30pm to the bar on June 29th. Quite cool to come through the secret door. The bar is great and the concept is awesome. I've been to similar speakeasy type places (The Library in Singapore) and like this kind of experience. The music was too loud for 630pm and besides a couple at the bar, we were the only customers. The atmosphere is still quite cool with great interior design. Our bartender introduces himself as Jeffery and takes our orders and then promises to bring us water. He is talking to the other couple at the bar and his voice is just booming. Like way louder than the music. No biggie, but odd. He brings us our drinks and again promises water. The other 5 members of our group join at about 6:45pm. Jeffrey takes drink orders from the full party and again promises to bring water. By 7:00pm, no one else in our party has their drinks. Jeffery is organizing the tables for some reason instead of preparing our drinks. He continues to be jittery and my wife wonders what is wrong with him. Our party of 7 were sitting in the corner in a tight cirlce and besides us, only 2 customers at the bar. Jeffery decides he is going to move us to the other end of the bar. He chastises us a bit for not having reservations. We find it a bit comical that we are getting dresssed down when there are no other customers. I also find it odd that a secret passageway speakeasy even takes reservations, but we laugh it off and let him know "this is our first stop and we'll be leaving in about 20 min." He still insists on moving all 7 of us and we refuse as we are literally 15 min from leaving. This was a "well that was weird moment". He then brings over our water that has been promised now 2-3 times and complains about how he now has to reach around our party to place the water and this is why he wanted to move us. We were all seated and this was not exactly a challenge for him. As he leaves the table, he snidely says "I am sure you people want a separate check". At this point, we look at him and ask if we are the customers or not and why are we getting this attitude when he is not busy and we are leaving shortly. He doesn't really answer. He goes back to the bar and again the booming voice and jittery body language overall. Two more people enter the bar and Jeffrey advises them not to sit at the end tables of the bar as "my juicer is here and it can get a bit loud on this end". This is exactly where he wanted to sit us. This is ridiculous as we are all well dressed, well traveled, 45ish, polite to servers as a rule, and we are out to spend money. There was no need for this level of poor service, especially considering it was so early and this guy was not busy. My Old Fashioned was very good, my wife's Whiskey Sour was ok, but nothing special. We paid on one ticket and left. I didn't see the bill, but the gentleman in our party that picked up the tab likely did tip, despite the poor service. Had a blast at our next stop, Gravy, with exceptional service accomodating the 30 min stop for our large party and then had a great time at Beasley's running in from the rain and receiving exceptional service. We were looking for a special start for the evening and while the bar itself was fantastic, the service failed to meet the high level a concept bar like this requires. Hope they get this situation corrected as this bar can be something special with a classic bespoke bartender. read more

Picture yourself strolling up an unmarked staircase with your date as if you were heading toward the Architect and then casually sliding open a bookshelf to reveal a small, private lounge decked out in 1920s speakeasy-style studded leather, plush pillows, and an extensive artisan cocktail menu. I guarantee you'll feel a little bit like Bruce Wayne as you close the bookcase and look at your date with a knowing smile. The cocktails are great, the ambiance is sophisticated, and the experience is unique. It's one of those places that you can't decide whether you want to tell everyone about because it's so cool ... or tell no one about so it stays as cool as it is. The good news is that the decision to go there is always a good one. read more

This little dirty secret is not worth the novelty it portrays. I have been here a hand full of times over the last year and always with guests. Each time the cocktails could easily be confused with furniture polish or a punishment. Who wants to wait in line for 35 minutes just to drink this garbage? Staff is nice thankfully, but I doubt the bartender has ever drank his own catastrophes. I would guess the've been so successful because they mostly get college kids who will drink anything as long as there is alcohol in it, but my goodness it's really pushing the limits! All my guests are on the brink of returning drinks or actually do it. Best advice, just get a beer in there. Also, it needs more book decor on the inside and should resemble the geologist room in the capitol building. Please someone help them! I want to hang out there. read more

What a disappointment!!! I am sorry I ever brought my friends to the Green Light! It was my birthday and wanted to have drinks there before going to dinner at a nearby restaurant. There were 7 of us (2 were not able to get there in time due to transportation issues). When we asked for the bill, we were told that we had to pay a 2 drink minimum for our guests that did not make it! The bill was outrageous, and the so called "specialty cocktails" were not so special! What should have been the start of a fun night, turned out to be one big ripoff! I will never go back there and certainly not recommend it to anyone else!!! read more

The worst speak easy I have ever been to! I have gone to many in several different states, and this is by far the worst speakeasy. I was so excited to come here since it seemed highly recommended. Cool entrance and nice vibe however that's it about this place. Ordered the bees knees upon the waitress suggestion and it had a extremely strong pine taste(which was never described,when asked) so I asked the waitress if I could get something different and no problem but when we got the check, she never took off the drink that she took back that I took ONE sip of! Her excuse.. "we don't take things off the bill." So if you don't take things off the bill then why wouldn't you say that before you take my drink back? Why wouldn't you leave the drink at the table for the others in my party? Why wouldn't you offer a drink as a replacement of the drink that was nasty? I will never suggest this place to anyone! Oh and they will add $8 liquor charges in addition to your drink price...Much better speakeasies elsewhere!!! read more

I have to say that this hidden gem is exactly that. I was introduced to this place by a colleague. We walked around at first and then we ended up walking into a bookcase. I was floored! Never expected what was behind the doors; a cozy, intimate, hidden gem. The atmosphere is perfect for a date. If you want to make a good impression this is the perfect place to do it. I will definitely be going back. read more

Jeffrey is a savant mixologist - including mock tails. Make a reservation on Friday or Saturday. Easy to talk chill environment and Monday or Tuesday you can BYO record. Inside the Architect. #bestofRaleigh read more

This is a great place for a 1920s style cocktail. If you enjoy the speakeasy/prohibition environment, you'll get a kick out of this place! The bartender was very knowledgeable and fun to talk to. I told him what I enjoyed and he mixed up a delicious cocktail with cardamom in it! Yummy! I don't get to Raleigh very often but I will definitely try to go back asap! Just be aware that the place is super small so, you should make a reservation if it's on a busy night (Wed. - Sat.). Also, don't ask for wine or standard beer. They have a few craft beers but nothing else that's standard, including standard liquors like Jack Daniels. The music was kind of loud at first but it was turned down since the Architect was closed and there was no need to drown it out. The cocktails are a little on the expensive side but I would definitely recommend it if you are looking for an experience, not just a drink. read more