When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Flask & Beaker
Why Flask & Beaker is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Flask & Beaker, located in Raleigh, NC on the North Carolina State University (NCSU) campus, offers an inviting and picturesque setting that makes it an excellent spot for meeting up with friends. With breathtaking views of Lake Raleigh, this restaurant creates a relaxing atmosphere perfect for both casual and special occasions. The venue features a locally-curated menu that emphasizes fresh, regional ingredients, reflecting a commitment to creative and innovative cuisine. Guests can enjoy breakfast, dinner, and an extensive bar menu, which operates late into the evening, making it versatile for any time of day. Its convenient location coupled with room service availability adds to its appeal. Beyond the food and views, the restaurant has a modern, thoughtfully designed interior that complements the outdoor scenery, offering a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment for socializing and enjoying good company.
Here's what people think of Flask & Beaker
As of recent, Flask & Beaker holds a 3.9-star rating based on 38 reviews.
Customer reviews for Flask & Beaker reveal a generally positive impression with a 3.9-star rating based on around 38 reviews. Positive feedback highlights the restaurant's exceptional staff, particularly praising employees like Darlene and Valerie for their professionalism and friendliness, contributing significantly to the welcoming atmosphere. Many diners appreciate the restaurant’s beautiful lake views and the creative, locally inspired menu that offers a distinct culinary experience. The ambiance and unique design also receive commendations for enhancing the overall dining experience. However, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as inconsistent service speed, limited menu variety, and pricing that some guests feel does not fully match the portion sizes or quality. A few patrons noted the dining environment can feel a bit formal, which may not suit everyone’s expectations for a casual meetup spot. In conclusion, while Flask & Beaker excels in atmosphere, service warmth, and scenic beauty, some operational and menu aspects have room for improvement, but it remains a favored dining destination for many in the Raleigh area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gloria Gao
The service is very quick, efficient, and friendly. However, the food is overpriced and not worth the money. I will say the fries are AMAZING. I ordered the Hot & Sweet Chicken Sandwich for $17, and it was extremely sweet to the point of being inedible. The chicken was juicy, albeit flavorless and sticky with the sweet sauce. This sandwich is also not "Hot" at all, although the title suggests otherwise.
Kevin Wang
Solid Southern food with generous portions - convenient breakfast option for hotel guests. The Stateview gives Bonvoy Platinum guests breakfast vouchers. The vouchers include warm entree items with generous portions - such an egg white omelets, breakfast plates, and pancakes (see pictures). The restaurant service is very friendly but can be slammed at busy times (morning rush or in the evenings during a convention).
Jacob Rigoli
Limited options for vegetarians and no choices at all for vegans. The only vegetarian entrée is a heavy pasta dish, with zero vegetarian appetizers available. For hotel guests, this presents a challenge: there are no nearby restaurants for an evening meal, leaving delivery as the only alternative. Not great if you’re staying more than one night at this hotel.
Ling Watson
I have been coming here since the hotel first opened. I love the convenience of the restaurant. The food in general is good, not over the top amazing but solid good. I do notice there is a lot of garlic and pickled onions on dishes. Personally I love them especially the pickled onion which adds such a nice pop on the breakfast egg ( red and white). The garlicky flavor is not my fav on the rice/pico in the roasted chicken dish. Did make me vampire resistant tonight after the dinner. Ha! Happy eating.
will cassell
This place was great, we had dinner and breakfast here and both meals were fantastic, great service as well!
Gloria Gao
The service is very quick, efficient, and friendly. However, the food is overpriced and not worth the money. I will say the fries are AMAZING. I ordered the Hot & Sweet Chicken Sandwich for $17, and it was extremely sweet to the point of being inedible. The chicken was juicy, albeit flavorless and sticky with the sweet sauce. This sandwich is also not "Hot" at all, although the title suggests otherwise.
Kevin Wang
Solid Southern food with generous portions - convenient breakfast option for hotel guests. The Stateview gives Bonvoy Platinum guests breakfast vouchers. The vouchers include warm entree items with generous portions - such an egg white omelets, breakfast plates, and pancakes (see pictures). The restaurant service is very friendly but can be slammed at busy times (morning rush or in the evenings during a convention).
Jacob Rigoli
Limited options for vegetarians and no choices at all for vegans. The only vegetarian entrée is a heavy pasta dish, with zero vegetarian appetizers available. For hotel guests, this presents a challenge: there are no nearby restaurants for an evening meal, leaving delivery as the only alternative. Not great if you’re staying more than one night at this hotel.
Ling Watson
I have been coming here since the hotel first opened. I love the convenience of the restaurant. The food in general is good, not over the top amazing but solid good. I do notice there is a lot of garlic and pickled onions on dishes. Personally I love them especially the pickled onion which adds such a nice pop on the breakfast egg ( red and white). The garlicky flavor is not my fav on the rice/pico in the roasted chicken dish. Did make me vampire resistant tonight after the dinner. Ha! Happy eating.
will cassell
This place was great, we had dinner and breakfast here and both meals were fantastic, great service as well!
How to reach Flask & Beaker
None
Website: None
Why Flask & Beaker may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Flask & Beaker with your friends?
Flask & Beaker, nestled within Raleigh's StateView Hotel, offers a unique setting that blends a laid-back atmosphere with warm hospitality, making it a solid choice for gathering with friends. Its moderate rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 38 reviews reflects a generally positive guest experience, particularly praised for its friendly staff and the quality of its breakfast and bar service. Whether you're looking to catch up over coffee or indulge in a hearty breakfast or creative cocktails, Flask & Beaker provides an inviting environment that encourages conversation and connection. The hotel-bar setting creates an intimate yet lively ambiance that can accommodate both small groups and larger gatherings. With its attentive mixologists and capable wait staff, it manages to combine good service with a comfortable vibe, which is crucial when hosting meetups that stretch across a few hours, allowing friends and family to relax and enjoy each other's company without feeling rushed. Its reputation for both breakfast classics and interesting cocktail mixes means everyone in your group can find something to suit their tastes. Overall, it's a convenient and friendly venue that offers a blend of casual dining and social drinking, great for making memories with your friends.
What kind of dining experience and food options are available for groups at Flask & Beaker?
One of Flask & Beaker’s standout features is its breakfast menu, which is both hearty and straightforward, ideal for fueling up before a day of activities or simply enjoying a leisurely morning with your group. The menu highlights classic dishes like steak and eggs, served with hash browns and fresh fruit, providing a no-nonsense, satisfying meal that appeals to meat lovers and breakfast purists alike. This substantial offering can serve as a perfect start for groups looking to socialize over a substantial meal without any fuss. For those craving a sweeter but still modestly sweet option, the hazelnut French toast with apple compote introduces a textural contrast and a mildly sweet flavor profile that won't overwhelm the palate. The presence of fresh fruit bowls adds a refreshing balance to the plate, catering to a range of tastes and preferences within a group, from those seeking indulgence to those looking for lighter fare. This variety in simple, well-executed dishes means groups can easily satisfy diverse cravings and dietary considerations, ensuring nobody feels limited in their choices. Moreover, the straightforward style of food served means the kitchen can efficiently handle groups, potentially reducing wait times for orders and enhancing the overall group dining experience.
What activities and ambiance make Flask & Beaker ideal for group meetups?
Flask & Beaker is not just about food and drink; it offers an atmosphere conducive to socializing and group interaction. Situated inside the StateView Hotel, the bar benefits from a design and setting that combines hotel sophistication with a welcoming, casual feel. This duality makes it flexible, fitting various group vibes — from quiet morning coffee meetings to livelier evening cocktail hours. The hospitality of the staff, repeatedly noted for professionalism and friendliness, adds to the relaxed and inviting mood, which is essential for groups aiming to spend extended periods chatting, laughing, and enjoying company without pressure. Mixologists at Flask & Beaker are specially credited for their skill and customer service, offering crafted cocktails that can serve as conversation starters and enhance the social experience. Whether your group is composed of cocktail enthusiasts or those who prefer coffee or non-alcoholic options, the menu diversity caters well. Additionally, the bar’s status as part of a hotel means it might offer late hours and the convenience of on-site lodging for out-of-town guests, facilitating longer, hassle-free gatherings. Overall, the combination of good drinks, pleasant environment, and attentive service creates a setting where groups can comfortably and enjoyably rally.
How does Flask & Beaker accommodate the needs of different group sizes and preferences?
Flask & Beaker appears well-prepared to host groups of various sizes thanks to its hotel-based location and versatile space. While some reviews mention slow service during busy times, the staff’s friendly demeanor throughout suggests a customer-first attitude that is crucial when handling larger parties or diverse group needs. The restaurant and bar can thus flexibly cater to small intimate groups or slightly larger meetups, making it a practical choice for friends, families, or even work colleagues gathering away from the typical restaurant scene. Dietary inclusivity is also a consideration, given the menu’s ability to support both hearty and lighter options, thus appealing to different dietary preferences and appetites commonly found in groups. The bar’s cocktail offerings, combined with solid breakfast fare, allow for a mix of daytime and evening meetups, adding to the versatility. By providing a casual yet polished environment, Flask & Beaker ensures that groups can easily navigate their meetup around food preferences, timing, and social mood. This flexibility is a key factor in what makes a location work well for group gatherings.
What should guests expect regarding the service quality and overall customer experience?
Guest feedback points to a service experience that balances friendliness and professionalism, important elements when hosting groups where a smooth flow of service can mean the difference between a pleasant outing and one marred by delays. While some patrons have noted slow service during peak periods, no significant complaints suggest this is a systemic issue; rather, it appears to be a manageable hiccup in an overall positive service climate. The attentive and patient nature of the mixologists and wait staff adds to the welcoming feel, with several reviewers singling out team members like Jayona and Darlene for excellent service and warm customer interaction. This level of service contributes significantly to the atmosphere needed for a successful group meetup, helping guests feel valued and well cared for. The environment itself is described as lively yet comfortable, where good cocktails and breakfast food merge with personable hospitality — all of which combine to produce a favorable and memorable outing for visitors.
In summary, Flask & Beaker offers a memorable spot to host friends or family, backed by a solid breakfast and cocktail menu, skilled and welcoming staff, and a comfortable hotel-bar vibe that adapts well to group meetups. Despite a moderate rating and some noted service delays, the overall package makes it a reliable venue for social gatherings in Raleigh.