When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Bedford Food & Drink
Why Bedford Food & Drink is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bedford Food & Drink, located at 3607 Falls River Ave Ste 125 in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a charming neighborhood eatery known for its upbeat and welcoming atmosphere. This establishment is perfect for meeting up with friends, offering a variety of meal options from breakfast through dinner. Its fresh, flavorful menu ranges from simple egg sandwiches to more elaborate small plates like Bavarian pretzel bites with beer cheese and charcuterie boards featuring curated meats and cheeses. The restaurant prides itself on its friendly and attentive staff, making diners feel right at home. With options such as flatbreads, oven-baked chicken wings with multiple sauce choices, and creative dishes like the Prosciutto Goat Cheese Dip, Bedford Food & Drink caters to diverse tastes. Whether you're seeking a casual breakfast, a relaxed brunch, or an evening of light bites, this spot provides a comfortable and inviting setting for social gatherings. Its accessible location in the Bedford neighborhood adds to its appeal as a reliable community dining destination.
Here's what people think of Bedford Food & Drink
As of recent, Bedford Food & Drink holds a 4.8-star rating based on 185 reviews.
The user reviews collectively highlight Bedford Food & Drink as a highly rated establishment with a remarkable rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 185 reviewers, indicating strong customer satisfaction. Positive feedback frequently mentions the friendly and upbeat staff who create a welcoming atmosphere, as well as the flavorful and varied menu that caters well to breakfast, brunch, and dinner guests. Customers enjoy the quality of the food, the cozy environment, and the thoughtful presentation of dishes such as their flatbreads, charcuterie, and unique dips. However, a few critiques, such as from some critics of similar restaurants called 'The Bedford by Martha Stewart' in Las Vegas (not to be confused with Bedford Food & Drink in Raleigh), mention certain dishes like Oysters Rockefeller having acquired tastes that might not appeal to all diners; this highlights the importance of menu selection according to personal preferences. Importantly, for Bedford Food & Drink in Raleigh itself, no significant negative reviews were found, suggesting overall consistent satisfaction. In summary, Bedford Food & Drink is praised for its community feel, friendly service, and tasty menu selections, making it a great choice for gatherings, though diners should consider personal taste when ordering specialty dishes.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Elizabeth Vandergast
This is the best neighborhood coffee shop/restaurant/ bar I’ve ever been in. This is “Cheers.” Everybody knows your name. It is a community gathering place. Coffee to linger or go, yummy food all day, social vibe evenings and live music (Thurs-Sat). Linger and work from here instead of home for a change of pace. Moms-there are games for your kids. All ages. Meet your friends for coffee or wine. Bring the hubs. Don’t bring the hubs (girls’ night). Not rowdy, just fun! Outdoor seating and special events too! The photos were taken at 8:30 in the morning or before.
Rebecca Liang
Very nice place to have a breakfast after our ice hockey practice in the early morning. The service was a little bit slow. It might be led by only one woman working. I love her smile just like the sunshine. The food was delicious and the coffee was pretty good. We like the Bedford Garden sandwich and breakfast burrito very much.
Mauricio Maldonado
Great neighborhood bar. I still have 5 stars for the food even though it is a (dinner) limited menu. What they do offer is great and enough to pair with their drinks. Their cocktails are awesome and they have a good rotation of draft beer. The location is great with plenty of seating. Live music nights are pretty awesome too. Wanted to update my review by stating the dinner menu is limited but their breakfast and lunch menu is amazing.
Joe Amor
Had a great breakfast at Bedford! The service was a bit slow but I think there was only one woman working, and we weren't in a hurry, so it didn't bother us. The food was delicious and it's a pretty cool spot. Would definitely go back!
Julia Orlidge-Diehl
It's amazing inside and the food is phenomenal. Delivering to the Bedford Pool is a major added perk! Highly recommend!!
Elizabeth Vandergast
This is the best neighborhood coffee shop/restaurant/ bar I’ve ever been in. This is “Cheers.” Everybody knows your name. It is a community gathering place. Coffee to linger or go, yummy food all day, social vibe evenings and live music (Thurs-Sat). Linger and work from here instead of home for a change of pace. Moms-there are games for your kids. All ages. Meet your friends for coffee or wine. Bring the hubs. Don’t bring the hubs (girls’ night). Not rowdy, just fun! Outdoor seating and special events too! The photos were taken at 8:30 in the morning or before.
Rebecca Liang
Very nice place to have a breakfast after our ice hockey practice in the early morning. The service was a little bit slow. It might be led by only one woman working. I love her smile just like the sunshine. The food was delicious and the coffee was pretty good. We like the Bedford Garden sandwich and breakfast burrito very much.
Mauricio Maldonado
Great neighborhood bar. I still have 5 stars for the food even though it is a (dinner) limited menu. What they do offer is great and enough to pair with their drinks. Their cocktails are awesome and they have a good rotation of draft beer. The location is great with plenty of seating. Live music nights are pretty awesome too. Wanted to update my review by stating the dinner menu is limited but their breakfast and lunch menu is amazing.
Joe Amor
Had a great breakfast at Bedford! The service was a bit slow but I think there was only one woman working, and we weren't in a hurry, so it didn't bother us. The food was delicious and it's a pretty cool spot. Would definitely go back!
Julia Orlidge-Diehl
It's amazing inside and the food is phenomenal. Delivering to the Bedford Pool is a major added perk! Highly recommend!!
How to reach Bedford Food & Drink
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Why Bedford Food & Drink may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Bedford Food & Drink with your friends?
Bedford Food & Drink in Raleigh, NC, is an exceptional spot to gather with friends because it perfectly balances a warm, inviting atmosphere with a variety of offerings that suit every part of the day. Whether you want to catch up over a fresh morning coffee, share a leisurely brunch, or enjoy a relaxed evening with craft drinks and small plates, this local favorite has you covered. With an outstanding rating of 4.8 across 185 reviews, it’s evident that patrons love the thoughtful menu, attentive service, and lively yet comfortable ambience. The restaurant is not only about food and drinks; it’s about community and connection, offering an environment that fosters meaningful conversations and shared experiences. Their flexible seating arrangements and ability to accommodate larger groups make it an ideal venue for hosting meetups that feel intimate yet unpressured. Add to this the live music every Thursday and weekly specials on drafts and wine, and you have a destination that encourages camaraderie not just through great dining but memorable social experiences. The place feels like a home away from home, ensuring every meetup feels special and stress-free.
What activities can groups enjoy at Bedford Food & Drink?
Bedford Food & Drink offers a multifaceted experience perfect for groups seeking more than just a meal. Firstly, it serves as a local café where you can start your day with excellent Black and White Roasters coffee, ideal for morning meetups or working sessions with friends. The café atmosphere lends itself to casual chats or collaborative work with access to a comfortable lounge and thoughtful spaces to settle in. Moving into the day, the restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, supporting gatherings around all types of meal times with a menu featuring both hearty and light fare. For those who enjoy drinks, the venue provides a curated selection of craft beers, wines, and cocktails designed to complement their food offerings, making it a great place for happy hour or evening relaxation. Weekly live music sessions, typically on Thursdays, add a rhythmic backdrop for socializing, enhancing the energy and making each visit fresh and exciting. They also sell select bottles for take-home, so groups can keep the experience going beyond the venue itself. Whether you want to sip unique drafts on a Monday special or enjoy wine tasting on Wednesdays, Bedford Food & Drink keeps your gatherings vibrant and varied.
Why is Bedford Food & Drink ideal for a group meetup?
Bedford Food & Drink excels at hosting groups due to its versatile and welcoming layout. The staff is prepared to reconfigure seating arrangements to accommodate different group sizes, ensuring everyone stays comfortable and engaged without feeling cramped. Their space includes both lounge areas and intimate seating clusters, so you can choose the setting that best suits your group's dynamic — be it a casual coffee catch-up or a celebratory dinner. This flexibility makes organizing events here straightforward, as the staff is attentive to your specific needs, including making reservations and providing timely service that keeps the event flowing smoothly. The venue’s focus on community means the ambiance is relaxed and inclusive, removing any stiffness often associated with group dining. Moreover, the local, handcrafted approach to their food and drink offerings invites shared tasting experiences, perfect for groups who love to explore new flavors together. The combination of quality, service, and atmosphere creates a place where friendships are strengthened naturally over good food and lively conversation.
How does Bedford Food & Drink support a quality dining experience for groups?
Quality is at the heart of everything Bedford Food & Drink offers, which is particularly important when hosting group meetups where diverse tastes and expectations come into play. Their menu spans from breakfast classics to sophisticated small plates, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that satisfy both comfort food cravings and adventurous palates. The café’s Black and White Roasters coffee, held in high regard locally, guarantees that your morning meetups start on the right note. Craft beers and wines are carefully selected and rotated based on seasonal and customer input, allowing groups to enjoy something new at each visit and to share tasting experiences. Additionally, the staff is well-trained to handle complex orders and special requests that often arise within groups, ensuring everyone’s dietary preferences and needs are met without hassle. Their takeout and pickup options add convenience for groups who want to mix in some casual dining at home or elsewhere. This commitment to quality and customer care goes a long way in making every visit memorable and satisfying for all attendees.
What makes the ambiance at Bedford Food & Drink stand out for social gatherings?
The ambiance at Bedford Food & Drink is crafted to be both stylish and laid-back, which strikes the perfect chord for social gatherings. Unlike venues that skew too formal or impersonal, Bedford’s setting encourages relaxation, meaningful connection, and the kind of easy-going interaction that friends and family crave. Multiple seating options, from cozy booths to open lounge spaces, allow groups to choose how close or spread out they want to be, accommodating everything from intimate chats to more lively group dynamics. The venue also promotes a strong sense of community through participatory elements like choosing the specialty coffee of the month or draft beer selection, inviting guests to feel personally invested in the offering. Regular events, including live music nights, stir a vibrant yet comfortable energy, offering entertainment without overwhelming the social aspect. Natural light during the day and warm lighting in the evening create an inviting environment no matter when you visit. This thoughtful design and attention to atmosphere make it easy to settle in and enjoy the company of your group.
How does Bedford Food & Drink engage with the local community and its customers?
Bedford Food & Drink views itself as more than just a restaurant — it’s a hub for local community engagement and customer involvement. From the outset, it positions itself as a community-driven venue, actively encouraging patrons to contribute ideas and feedback on menu items and drink selections. This creates a dynamic environment where customers feel like stakeholders in the establishment’s success and personality. The venue supports local producers by featuring Black and White Roasters coffee, and by regularly updating their craft beer and wine offerings based on customer interests. Social media interaction and direct community outreach help Bedford Food & Drink stay connected to local events and trends, enhancing its role as a neighborhood gathering place. Special promotions like $5 drafts on Mondays and $5 wines on Wednesdays are designed to boost weekday socializing while building a loyal clientele. This engagement strengthens community ties, making group visits more meaningful than just dining out — it becomes a shared experience rooted in local pride and collaboration.
What practical amenities does Bedford Food & Drink offer to facilitate group gatherings?
Practical conveniences at Bedford Food & Drink make booking and hosting group meetups smooth and hassle-free. Their hours, open from 8 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Thursday and extended to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays (closed Tuesdays), provide ample opportunity for morning coffees, leisurely lunches, or late-night dinners with friends. Reservations are accepted, which is especially helpful for larger parties wanting guaranteed seating and personalized table setups. The venue offers both dine-in and takeout options, along with delivery, accommodating groups that prefer different formats for their meetups. Accessibility features ensure everyone in your group can participate comfortably. Additionally, the option to purchase favorite beverages to take home — including craft beers, wines, and coffee — extends the social experience beyond the restaurant walls. All of these amenities combine to make Bedford Food & Drink a practical and inviting choice for groups seeking an effortless gathering point with plenty of flexibility.
Bedford Food & Drink’s blend of quality offerings, thoughtful ambiance, active community engagement, and practical conveniences makes it an outstanding venue for hosting meetups with friends and family. It’s a place designed to foster connection through excellent food, drink, and shared experiences in a warm, welcoming setting.