When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Rudino's Sports Corner
Why Rudino's Sports Corner is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Rudino's Sports Corner in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and food lovers alike. Family owned and operated, it boasts one of the largest collections of plasma TVs in the city, featuring over 20 50-inch screens, making it a perfect gathering spot to catch all your favorite games including NFL, NHL, NBA, MLB, MLS, and college sports. Located conveniently at the corner of Edwards Mill Road and Duraleigh Road in Olde Raleigh Village, it offers an inviting atmosphere combining the excitement of live sports with the comfort of a well-established sports bar. Beyond the vibrant sports viewing experience, Rudino's is renowned for its award-winning pizzas and grinders made from scratch with fresh ingredients, catering to various taste preferences from hearty nachos to healthy salads. The venue features spacious indoor seating as well as a delightful outdoor area that is dog-friendly, allowing patrons to enjoy the game day ambiance with friends and family. Its proximity to major local sports arenas like the PNC Arena and NC State sports venues makes it a favored stop before or after games, ensuring that whether you're in for a quick bite or a full meal with your favorite cold brew, Rudino's Sports Corner provides a welcoming and spirited environment for all kinds of sports fans.
Here's what people think of Rudino's Sports Corner
As of recent, Rudino's Sports Corner holds a 4.2-star rating based on 610 reviews.
Customers generally appreciate Rudino's Sports Corner for its relaxed atmosphere and excellent customer service. Many reviewers praise the speedy service, noting that despite being spacious, it is often not crowded, allowing for attentive and prompt staff response. The outdoor seating area receives special commendation for being pleasant and welcoming to dogs, making it a great spot for pet owners to enjoy social time. The food, particularly the pizzas and grinders, frequently garners positive remarks for their quality and flavor, reinforcing Rudino's reputation for award-winning menu items that complement the sports bar vibe. Additionally, patrons enjoy the extensive beer selection and the abundance of large TVs for watching a variety of sports events, which enhances the viewing experience significantly. On the downside, some negative feedback mentions occasional fluctuations in service speed or food consistency, and a few customers have noted that the atmosphere can feel a bit empty or lacking energy when not during peak sporting events. There are also mentions of limited parking and times when the outdoor seating can be less comfortable due to weather conditions. Overall, the positive reviews outweigh the negatives, highlighting Rudino's Sports Corner as a solid choice for a casual meal and enjoying live sports. The combination of a family-operated business ethos, a focus on quality food, and a comprehensive sports viewing setup makes it a particularly popular venue in Raleigh for fans seeking both good food and great games.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
christi burns
We really wanted to like Rudino’s. Living right across the street, it would be great to have a go-to neighborhood spot. Plus, we were friends with the couple who moved here 25 years ago to start this restaurant, full of hope for its success. Unfortunately, after four visits, three of them have been awful, and this last one sealed the deal—we won’t be coming back. From the moment we arrived, the service set a negative tone. Our server greeted us at 8:42 PM with, “Our late-night menu starts at 9 PM.” When we said, “Okay, we’re ready to order now,” she seemed irritated, as if she didn’t want to be there. That attitude carried throughout the experience. We started with the chicken nachos, requesting extra cheese. When they arrived, they were dry, bland, and incredibly generic—nothing like the satisfying, indulgent nachos you’d hope for at a so-called sports bar. It was a major letdown. What’s frustrating is that Rudino’s calls itself a sports bar, but it’s really just a mediocre restaurant with TVs showing sports. A true sports bar welcomes fans, encourages guests to stick around, and embraces the energy of a game night. Here, it’s the opposite. The restaurant closes at 10 PM, isn’t even open on Mondays during football season, and by 9 PM, the staff makes you feel unwelcome—like they’re just waiting for you to leave so they can close up. The only semi-decent experience we had here was the one time we sat at the bar. The bartender was friendly and made us feel welcome, even though the food was still disappointing. That’s why we gave it another shot, hoping for a similar experience. But tonight’s visit was the final straw. We eat out five nights a week and love supporting our local restaurants. Unfortunately, Rudino’s just doesn’t measure up. The food is bland, the service is disinterested at best, and the overall experience is just sad. There are so many other great options nearby—don’t waste your time or money here. This is easily the worst dining experience in Old Raleigh.
Jake Umstead
Not impressed at all. Ordered Philly and bacon fries for pickup. Philly tasted like an uncleanedgrill/old grease, was 3x as much bread than filling which I don’t expect for a Grinder, and NOT worth what I paid. No complaints on the bacon cheese fries though. Not planning on ordering again, which is a shame cause I live so close and was hoping they’d become regular spot. Do Better.
Jeremy Plunkett
Overall good experience! I ordered the 9" Italian and Chicken grinders, both with chips. I ordered ahead online for to go. The food was good, and I really like the chips, since they are freshly made. Not excited that ranch dressing costs extra but completely understandable and worth the splurge. The food did take about 10 minutes more than expected, but the staff was nice about it. Really not a bad experience, and it was pretty comparable to other times I've been here.
Nikki Takei
It's been a long time since I had service as bad as what was experienced here. We were there early, just around five for an event at the Fairgrounds so the restaurant while not empty had less than 20 people in the entire place. There was nobody at the door when we arrived, so we sat ourselves. The hostess, the bartender and the waitress all walked by our table at least five times each, while completely ignoring us. After 10 minutes we went and talked to the hostess who said we needed to be sat to get service (OKaaaayyyy.) One of our party arrived late so her food was late. She asked for mayo, silverware and pickles. One of our party asked for more dressing which was never brought. Ten minutes later, she asked again (mayo, silverware, pickles) while the food sat untouched and getting cold. The server brought mayo and pickles, no silverware, which we again, got up and got ourselves at the hostess station. We asked for to go boxes and the check. Those were brought but the dirty plates were left on the table even after we asked the waitress to take the plates (huge pet peeve.) We heard the table behind us complaining about the wrong thing being brought to the table- I think it was a meal that they requested to no chicken and it came with the chicken. They removed the chicken and put it in the middle of the table. We heard them complain they weren't supposed to get it, and wanted it removed from the bill, but the manager said that since someone else ate the chicken they couldn't refund it. I never heard of such a thing! Anyway, it wasn't one thing in particular that was bad, and the food was perfectly OK, it was the overall prevalent eye rolling attitude by every person working there who seemed they just couldn't be bothered with anything. The staff spent most of the time off to the side looking at their phones. I don't generally write reviews and to be fair, I sent my first 'complaint' review to Rudino's only, but five days later, having not heard from them... I can only assume the staff gets their "I don't give a shit" attitude from management.
Gina H-Powell
The staff is always super nice. The pizza is extra fresh and piping hot. The order... it's never right. It doesnt matter if I dine in or get to go, order in person or on the phone. I'm going to get whatever they want me to have. No one checks the order apparently... not the kitchen, server, bartender or hostess. So. Ill go eat this 12in Rudino Royale cut up in these little pieces I REALLY dont like.
How to reach Rudino's Sports Corner
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Why rally at Rudino's Sports Corner with your friends?
If you're seeking the perfect spot to gather with friends or family, Rudino's Sports Corner in Raleigh, NC offers a compelling blend of atmosphere, entertainment, and delicious food that makes it an unbeatable choice. This family-owned sports bar boasts over 20 large 50-inch plasma TVs, creating an immersive sports-watching environment that ensures no fan misses a moment of the action. Whether your crew is passionate about NFL, NHL, MLB, NBA, MLS, or college sports, Rudino's effortlessly caters to all tastes with every major sports package available. Beyond just watching the game, Rudino’s invites you to enjoy a relaxed yet energetic setting where camaraderie flourishes over crowd-pleasing pizzas, grinders, and ice-cold beers. The location, right at the corner of Edwards Mill Road and Duraleigh Road, serves as a convenient hub for local sports fans, just minutes away from major venues like PNC Arena and NC State athletic events. The blend of excellent food, an unbeatable sports vibe, and a welcoming, family-oriented environment makes Rudino's Sports Corner the essential rallying spot for friend meetups or family celebrations in Raleigh.
What activities can you enjoy at Rudino's Sports Corner?
At Rudino’s Sports Corner, the primary activity that draws patrons is watching live sports, thanks to the ample array of big-screen televisions scattered throughout the venue. Every game feels like a front-row experience, whether it's pro football or college basketball, perfect for groups that bond over cheering their favorite teams. But Rudino’s is not just a passive viewing zone; the Sports Corner also hosts engaging events like Music Bingo every Friday night, which challenges your music knowledge in a lively, interactive setting. This adds a dynamic social element that turns a casual evening into a shared, memorable adventure with friends. Another appealing feature is the outdoor seating area, one of the few in Raleigh, which allows groups to enjoy fresh air and a relaxed ambiance while sipping on craft beers or cocktails. And for those passionate about enjoying great food alongside the fun, Rudino’s boasts a menu filled with award-winning pizzas and an assortment of grinders, ensuring everyone in the group can find something delicious to enjoy while socializing. The combination of televised sports, music events, tasty food, and inviting indoor and outdoor spaces creates multiple layers of entertainment that make it perfect for group meetups.
Why is Rudino's Sports Corner perfect for a group meetup?
Rudino’s Sports Corner is uniquely designed to accommodate groups of any size, making it an ideal destination for meetups whether you are planning a casual hangout or a lively sports-watching party. The spacious interior, outfitted with numerous TVs, ensures that no one misses the action regardless of where they sit, keeping the group connected through shared experiences. The family-owned atmosphere fosters a welcoming, personal touch that large chains often lack, making every guest feel like part of the community. The outstanding variety of pizzas and grinders caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences, allowing your group to enjoy a satisfying meal without stress. Moreover, the venue’s drink specials and a solid beer selection provide perfect pairings for food and sports, helping raise spirits for celebrations or friendly rivalries. Conveniently located near major sports arenas, Rudino’s can naturally serve as the starting or ending point for your outing, letting your group extend the day’s excitement. All these facets, combined with attentive service and a lively yet approachable vibe, make Rudino's Sports Corner the best place for groups to bond over food, drinks, and unforgettable games.
What kinds of food and drinks can you expect at Rudino's Sports Corner?
When it comes to food, Rudino's Sports Corner shines with a menu centered on award-winning pizzas and delicious grinders—a hearty, flavorful staple for any sports bar experience. Their pizza offerings stand out not just for taste but for quality, making them an excellent choice to share among friends during a game. The grinders—submarine-style sandwiches—come in generous portions packed with savory fillings, perfect for anyone craving a satisfying meal. Additionally, the menu includes various appetizers and snacks to keep the energy high while watching sports or enjoying other activities. For drinks, Rudino’s presents an extensive selection featuring ice-cold beers, including local craft brews and popular favorites, alongside cocktails and soft drinks. The regular drink specials add excellent value, encouraging guests to try different beverages without overspending. Whether you lean towards a refreshing beer after a long week or a creative mixed drink, Rudino’s covers that spectrum, ensuring everyone in your group finds a drink that complements their mood and meal perfectly.
What makes the location and atmosphere of Rudino's Sports Corner stand out?
Rudino's Sports Corner enjoys a prime spot in Raleigh at the intersection of Edwards Mill Road and Duraleigh Road, granting easy access to locals and visitors alike. Its proximity to major venues such as PNC Arena and NC State's sports arenas makes it a natural gathering place before or after events, transforming it into a sports fan hub that benefits from the local athletic energy. Beyond location, the atmosphere strikes a superb balance between lively sports bar excitement and family-friendly comfort, inviting diverse crowds ranging from die-hard sports enthusiasts to families seeking casual dining. The interior décor is filled with sports memorabilia and a dynamic array of large TVs, fostering an environment where the community’s passion for sports is celebrated openly. Complementing this is a spacious outdoor seating area that offers a refreshing alternative, ideal for those warmer North Carolina evenings. The combination of strategic location, ever-present sports excitement, and welcoming, adaptable spaces creates an ambiance that feels both energizing and inclusive — a true cornerstone for Raleigh's community meetups.
How does Rudino's Sports Corner support social events and group fun?
Rudino's Sports Corner takes social events seriously by offering weekly engagements that enhance the group's experience beyond just watching sports. Their popular Music Bingo held every Friday evening is a prime example, where groups can test their music knowledge in a friendly, competitive atmosphere that sparks laughter and interaction. Such events transform a simple night out into a lively social occasion, perfect for groups looking to connect through shared entertainment. Beyond these events, Rudino’s flexible seating arrangements accommodate everything from small friend circles to larger celebrations, ensuring your group can find the right space for conversation and fun. The upbeat yet relaxed environment is conducive to gathering after work, celebrating special occasions, or just enjoying a weekend outing with friends or family. Coupled with attentive service and reliable food and drink quality, Rudino's Sports Corner provides a dependable and festive venue for groups intent on making the most of their time together.
What do customer reviews say about the experience at Rudino's Sports Corner?
With a strong rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on over 600 reviews, Rudino's Sports Corner enjoys a solid reputation as one of Raleigh's preferred sports bars. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly, attentive staff and the vibrant atmosphere full of lively sports energy as key reasons for returning. Many customers praise the quality and deliciousness of the pizzas and grinders, often calling them some of the best in town. The abundance of TVs and the variety of sports coverage consistently receive positive mentions, making it an excellent venue for fans wanting to follow multiple games simultaneously. While some reviewers occasionally note busy times, the overall sentiment reflects satisfaction with the experience, emphasizing the venue's role as a comfortable, energetic gathering spot for friends and families alike. This positive feedback reinforces Rudino's status as a community favorite that prioritizes great food, entertainment, and hospitality.
In what ways can Rudino's Sports Corner enhance your next group meetup?
Hosting your next group gathering at Rudino's Sports Corner means bringing people together in an environment that elevates every social occasion. The harmonious blend of top-tier sports viewing, engaging interactive events, and delicious food ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy, no matter their interests. The venue's flexible seating and friendly ambiance allow for uninterrupted conversations while simultaneously soaking in the thrilling energy of live sports or music events. The staff’s responsiveness and welcoming attitude make organizing and enjoying your meetup hassle-free, allowing your group to focus on fun and connection. Particularly for sports fanatics, the comprehensive coverage and extensive TV setups spell a memorable time watching favorite teams in good company. For groups valuing great food and a vibrant atmosphere, Rudino’s presents the ideal crossroads where leisure meets excitement, making your meetup noteworthy and repeat-worthy. Whether it’s a birthday, game night, or casual weekend hangout, Rudino's Sports Corner delivers a compelling package for successful group outings.