Watts and Ward: Raleigh’s Speakeasy

Watts and Ward highlights the best of Raleigh’s trendy night life while still providing a relaxing atmosphere. Bring a few close friends to catch up with and you will not be disappointed.

Ya But “Watts” Parking Like

Watts and Ward is located in the heart of Raleigh next to the Moore’s Square. If you have not come by Moore’s Square since it was renovated, I highly recommend it. You will find this swanky bar at the corner of East Hargett St and South Blount St. This area of Raleigh is very trendy and includes other top notch establishments such as Brewery Bhavana, Sitti and more. We recently checked out the NC Science Museum in the area too.

Parking is best in the various parking garages. I recommend using the official Raleigh Parking map to find the best spot for your adventure. If you are feeling brave, you can try to find a parallel parking spot on the street but these are few and far between. I have never had an issue with the parking decks in town aside from some big event days. The decks are well maintained and accessible. I believe all have elevators at this point. If you drive a larger vehicle, you should be OK but some oversized vehicles may not fit some.

“Ward”-ing Off Bad Vibes

Watts and Ward offers a unique basement entrance. In the Piedmont and Costal plains of NC, any sub-surface space is really rare due to water tables and some areas of high clay content. So this is a real treat. This establishment is a 21+ bar so the staff check ID’s at the door. You head down the stairs to what feels like a secret hideout. The multiple bars have a “speak easy” vide. Even though this is one of Raleigh’s favorite bars to visit, it always feels like you discovered something for the first time when you walk downstairs.

The ambiance is very relaxing and generally cool. There are plenty of big seating areas to utilize if you have a good sized crowd with you. If you are trying to escape, there are a few neat little seats that allow you to sink into the shadows too.

The outdoor space took me by surprise. You emerge just below street level when you pop out the side door. On high traffic nights, this place can get a little stuffy so the outdoor space can be a welcome relief without having to leave the bar. The outdoor atmosphere is subtle with its own bar to allow you to relax. If you like getting photos, the neon sign here makes for some fun lighting. When the bar is on off hours, I really enjoy the indoor spaces but I continue to find myself spending more time outside during peak hours.

Shout out to Kaitlyn’s friends! And Congrats to Bree and Raul on their recent marriage which is why we were all out celebrating.

Drinks Made to Suit

The Drinks at Watts and Ward are a great mix of classics and unique twists. If you are a fan of over-the-top mixed drinks, there is a great little menu here for you to pick from. If you are more interested in some old time classics or even a specialty drink, these guys have you covered too. There are beer and wine selections here but that is not what the bar is known for.

The few times I have come, I really enjoyed their Moscow Mule with Gin as a substitute. Kaitlyn tired some of their more specialty mixed drinks and really liked it. It seemed a little heavy on the juice but she really enjoyed it.

Raleigh Speakeasy

Truly, there number of basements in Raleigh are few and the fact that this one is both historic AND and an awesome bar brings it to a new level. I am simple that way. There are only a few establishments in the area that are sub surface and something about the esthetic of this place make you feel like you are apart of a secret club. The outdoor space shatters this illusion a little but I still fully enjoy it.

Overall

Watts and Ward is one of the must see bars in Raleigh’s night life. The relaxed atmosphere attracts just about everyone without over crowding the bar. Every turn feels like a hidden mystery waiting for you to uncover it. Absolutely worth checking out.

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