When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
The Brass Tap
Why The Brass Tap is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Brass Tap is an upscale beer bar that has grown to become a favored venue for friends and craft beer enthusiasts to gather, relax, and enjoy an exceptional beer selection. Founded in 2007 and headquartered in Tampa, Florida, it offers an impressive range of 40 to 60 craft beers on tap, along with over 300 imported and local bottled beer varieties. Its diverse and frequently rotated tap list ensures that visitors can always find something new and exciting to try, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate variety and quality in their beer experience. Beyond just a place to drink, The Brass Tap features a spacious and comfortable patio, enhancing the social environment and providing a perfect setting for group meet-ups, celebrations, or casual hangouts. The atmosphere balances the ambience of a welcoming neighborhood bar with the sophistication that appeals to craft beer lovers. The brand has also expanded through franchising, backed by strong corporate support while maintaining a local bar feel, which further contributes to its reputation as a great place to connect with friends and enjoy quality brews.
Here's what people think of The Brass Tap
As of recent, The Brass Tap holds a 4.4-star rating based on 106 reviews.
Users generally appreciate The Brass Tap for its extensive and thoughtfully curated beer selection, highlighting the variety of craft and imported beers as a major positive aspect. Many reviewers praise the welcoming atmosphere, spacious patio, and friendly staff that contribute to a comfortable, sociable setting. Positive comments often mention the expertise of the bartenders and the quality of the overall experience, noting that the rotating taps expose patrons to new favorites without repetition. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on occasional inconsistencies in service speed, crowding during peak hours, and variability in beer quality or availability. A few customers have noted that some locations might have a noise level that detracts from conversation, or found pricing to be on the higher side relative to comparable bars. Overall, however, the reviews lean strongly positive, with many visitors recommending The Brass Tap as a lively and reliable spot for craft beer enthusiasts. The balance of extensive beer options, inviting social space, and franchise support positions it well in the craft beer bar market.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
JK F
What a fun experience. Samantha was the BEST waitress - such a great personality and so fun. Our food was delicious, beers were cold, and lots of laughs were had.. The pizza crust was perfection - we will definitely go back!
JoAnna Thomas
I got an espresso martini and Mac n cheese bites while waiting for a flight and man am I glad I stopped in! The bites were delicious and it came with a spicy sauce (that wasn’t really needed but good nonetheless). My bartender was great and attentive and several other employees checked on me as well. It was pretty empty when I came in at 3ish but I’m shocked it’s not busier. They even have $5 well drinks on Wednesday and $4 “mystery beers” that sounded delicious. If I lived here I’d definitely be here often.
Brad Davis
Our group of 6 enjoyed our Sunday night dinner. First a suggestion - when it is only half full inside, the TV volume should be turned down to a reasonable level. We could barely hear each other's conversation even when yelling while sitting at a round table for six. Far too loud. Now the good - Large beer selection, and the food was good, great service. Servers were very attentive and while they brought out the wrong flavor of wings, they fixed it quickly. Highly recommended. We enjoyed the boom boom shrimp, wings, regular and gluten free pizzas.
JoAmber Dezonno
The Brass Tap has a welcoming atmosphere. The windows all around the dining room and wide open indoor seating concept create an inviting feeling that pulls you in and makes you want to stay. Alongside the crowd favorites of wings, burgers, and brisket grilled cheese, they also offer a few vegan or vegetarian options like the impossible burger or tacos and salads. They have a wide variety of beer and liquor but also have a unique menu of mocktails. Seating is ample inside with high and low tables and comfortable chairs at the bar. There are a few games inside, like a foosball table, computer games, and a golf game. There are TVs all around the seating area. Their outdoor patio has a good amount of seating for two and four tops, and the area is in great condition. The staff here work well together and add to the inviting atmosphere with their hospitality. You can definitely come here for a good time with great food and drinks that will accommodate anyone in your party and fantastic service on top of it all.
Sagar Pravakar Sharma
I had an amazing time at The Brass Tap! The ambiance was fantastic, the food options were delicious, and the service was top-notch. It's definitely a cool new hangout spot in Raleigh. I highly recommend this place!
JK F
What a fun experience. Samantha was the BEST waitress - such a great personality and so fun. Our food was delicious, beers were cold, and lots of laughs were had.. The pizza crust was perfection - we will definitely go back!
JoAnna Thomas
I got an espresso martini and Mac n cheese bites while waiting for a flight and man am I glad I stopped in! The bites were delicious and it came with a spicy sauce (that wasn’t really needed but good nonetheless). My bartender was great and attentive and several other employees checked on me as well. It was pretty empty when I came in at 3ish but I’m shocked it’s not busier. They even have $5 well drinks on Wednesday and $4 “mystery beers” that sounded delicious. If I lived here I’d definitely be here often.
Brad Davis
Our group of 6 enjoyed our Sunday night dinner. First a suggestion - when it is only half full inside, the TV volume should be turned down to a reasonable level. We could barely hear each other's conversation even when yelling while sitting at a round table for six. Far too loud. Now the good - Large beer selection, and the food was good, great service. Servers were very attentive and while they brought out the wrong flavor of wings, they fixed it quickly. Highly recommended. We enjoyed the boom boom shrimp, wings, regular and gluten free pizzas.
JoAmber Dezonno
The Brass Tap has a welcoming atmosphere. The windows all around the dining room and wide open indoor seating concept create an inviting feeling that pulls you in and makes you want to stay. Alongside the crowd favorites of wings, burgers, and brisket grilled cheese, they also offer a few vegan or vegetarian options like the impossible burger or tacos and salads. They have a wide variety of beer and liquor but also have a unique menu of mocktails. Seating is ample inside with high and low tables and comfortable chairs at the bar. There are a few games inside, like a foosball table, computer games, and a golf game. There are TVs all around the seating area. Their outdoor patio has a good amount of seating for two and four tops, and the area is in great condition. The staff here work well together and add to the inviting atmosphere with their hospitality. You can definitely come here for a good time with great food and drinks that will accommodate anyone in your party and fantastic service on top of it all.
Sagar Pravakar Sharma
I had an amazing time at The Brass Tap! The ambiance was fantastic, the food options were delicious, and the service was top-notch. It's definitely a cool new hangout spot in Raleigh. I highly recommend this place!
How to reach The Brass Tap
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Why rally at The Brass Tap with your friends?
Gathering with friends at The Brass Tap offers a compelling combination of a lively atmosphere, an extensive drink selection, and great food, making it an ideal spot for socializing. With a 4.4-star rating from over 100 reviews, The Brass Tap has earned a reputation for providing a memorable experience for groups looking to relax and have fun. You and your friends can enjoy over 40 beers on tap and more than 300 bottled beer options, catering to nearly every taste and preference, which is a perfect conversation starter and an adventure in itself. The place strikes a balance between an upscale beer bar and a casual hangout, making it feel welcoming whether you're celebrating a milestone, catching up after a long week, or just looking for a new place to explore with your group. The environment supports interaction with plenty of seating and enough space for groups to gather comfortably, all while you enjoy high-quality service and a food menu designed to complement the drinks. This mix of a wide-ranging beer selection, good food, and a pleasant social vibe makes The Brass Tap a go-to destination for friends wanting to rally and enjoy a great time together.
What activities are available at The Brass Tap that make it great for a group meetup?
When you host a group meetup at The Brass Tap, there's a lot more than just great beer to experience. The first standout feature is the beer tasting adventure. With a selection of over 40 draft beers at any time and a staggering 300+ bottled options, your group can explore a wide variety of craft beers from local to international breweries. This makes it easy to find something for every palate, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts or refreshing lagers. For those who aren't beer aficionados, the menu also includes a range of other beverages to keep everyone happy. Pairing your drinks with food adds another layer to the experience; The Brass Tap’s menu includes popular bar fare like burgers, flatbreads, wraps, and appetizers such as the highly praised Southern Stack or buffalo wings. This makes it an excellent place for groups where diverse tastes exist, ensuring everyone can find something satisfying to eat. Additionally, many locations offer live music or televised sports events, which naturally bring energy and entertainment to your gathering. Combined with attentive service and a friendly atmosphere, these elements create a laid-back environment perfect for sharing laughs, stories, and cheers.
How does The Brass Tap’s atmosphere enhance group socializing?
The environment at The Brass Tap is thoughtfully designed to facilitate social interaction and create a welcoming hangout spot. Unlike typical noisy bars, The Brass Tap maintains a balance between an energetic vibe and comfort, making it easy to carry on conversations without shouting over loud music. This is especially conducive for groups who want to catch up or plan events while enjoying their drinks. The layout often includes long tables, booths, and bar seating, allowing groups of various sizes to find a comfortable spot where everyone can be involved. Many visitors highlight the friendly and knowledgeable staff, who add to the vibe by being approachable and willing to help with beer recommendations or menu suggestions. Sports fans will appreciate the multiple TV screens that broadcast games in comfortable viewing angles, which can make watching together a shared experience of excitement and bonding. Whether you want a lively evening or a relaxed nightcap, the atmosphere adapts well, helping your group feel at ease and ready to enjoy each other’s company.
Why is the food menu at The Brass Tap suited for groups?
The Brass Tap offers a food menu that is varied enough to suit the tastes of different individuals in your group, making it an excellent complement to their extensive drink selection. Many customers rave about the quality and portion sizes of classic bar dishes like burgers, flatbreads, chicken wings, and wraps. These menu items are not only crowd-pleasers but also easily shareable, which encourages a communal dining atmosphere. For example, the Caprese flatbread and Southern Stack appetizer receive frequent positive mentions for their flavor and ability to satisfy different cravings. The menu also caters to different dietary preferences, making it easier for groups with mixed tastes or dietary restrictions to find suitable options without hassle. Importantly, the food is crafted to pair well with the wide beer selection, enhancing the overall tasting experience of your meetup. This focus on quality and variety in both food and drink elevates The Brass Tap beyond a simple bar to a full social dining experience ideal for gatherings.
What makes The Brass Tap a perfect venue for group events or celebrations?
The Brass Tap’s combination of a versatile menu, wide beer choices, and comfortable, social atmosphere makes it a natural venue for various group events—from casual get-togethers to celebrations like birthdays or reunions. The staff’s friendly and accommodating attitude often means groups feel well-treated, adding to the sense of occasion. Many locations are spacious enough to handle larger parties without feeling cramped, an important factor when hosting multiple friends or family. For sports fans, the many TV screens create an immersive setting for watching games together, boosting the excitement of shared hobbies or interests. The availability of live music and occasional events at certain locations also enhances the festive mood. Furthermore, The Brass Tap’s reputation for good service and quality products means the logistical side of event planning is simplified—guests rarely leave disappointed by either food, drink, or ambiance. This reliability builds trust that any meetup will be enjoyable and memorable, which keeps groups coming back for more.
How does The Brass Tap compare to other bars for group socializing?
Compared to many bars, The Brass Tap stands out because of its specialty focus on craft beer, extensive variety, and an atmosphere that is neither too formal nor too rowdy. While some bars may excel in one or the other, The Brass Tap strikes a balance by offering an upscale beer experience that retains a friendly, casual feel. This makes it more inclusive for different types of groups, accommodating beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Customer reviews often highlight that the service is superior to many standard pubs, with staff who are enthusiastic about guiding customers through the beer options, making the experience educational and fun. The emphasis on quality food that pairs well with drinks also sets it apart, providing a more complete dining and social package than many competitors. Overall, The Brass Tap appeals to groups looking for more than just a drink—they want a well-rounded social outing with variety, comfort, and excellent service at its core.
What do customers say about The Brass Tap experience in group settings?
Customer feedback commonly praises The Brass Tap for its vibrant yet comfortable atmosphere that supports lively group interactions without overpowering noise or crowdedness. Many highlight the impressive beer selection as a major draw, with friends bonding over shared tastings or discovering new favorites together. The food is frequently described as tasty and reliably good, making group dinners enjoyable and satisfying. Patrons also appreciate how the staff enhances the experience by being knowledgeable and responsive to group needs, from drink recommendations to accommodating seating preferences. Some reviews mention the venue as a prime spot for watching sports games with friends, boosting camaraderie. Although isolated reports note occasional service inconsistencies, the overall sentiment is positive, pointing to The Brass Tap as a trustworthy and fun place for social meetups with friends and family.
What makes The Brass Tap’s beer selection exceptional for groups?
The Brass Tap’s beer program is its defining attribute, featuring an extraordinarily diverse lineup that suits all beer lovers. With over 40 taps at any given time, visitors can expect a rotating selection of craft brews, local favorites, and international styles, providing an endless exploration for groups who enjoy tasting flights or international brews. The vast choice encourages group members to try beers outside their usual preferences, sparking conversations and shared discoveries. Additionally, there are more than 300 bottled beers, offering rare and seasonal brews that add excitement to each visit. For groups interested in learning about craft beer, the knowledgeable bartenders can offer insights and pairing advice, enriching the social experience. This beer diversity not only makes The Brass Tap a prime destination for beer appreciation but also fosters a unique setting where friends can connect and celebrate over interesting and flavorful selections.
How accessible is The Brass Tap for hosting family-friendly gatherings?
While The Brass Tap's primary appeal centers on its beer selection and bar atmosphere, many locations also welcome a family-friendly vibe during earlier hours. The extensive food menu includes approachable and familiar dishes like burgers and flatbreads, attracting guests of all ages, including family groups. The relaxed seating and spacious interiors allow comfortable dining with children or extended family members. However, as a craft beer bar, the environment may become more adult-oriented during later evening hours when the crowd shifts toward social drinking and nightlife. For families planning a gathering, timing the visit earlier in the day or during brunch or lunch hours will likely provide a more suitable setting. The staff’s friendly nature and quality of service also contribute positively to making family visits pleasant. This versatility helps The Brass Tap serve not only friend meetups but also broader social occasions that include family members.
In what ways does The Brass Tap enhance the social experience beyond food and drink?
Beyond offering excellent food and drink, The Brass Tap enhances social experiences through its design, events, and service philosophy. Many locations offer live music nights or special events that provide entertainment to complement the casual bar setting. Watching sports together is a communal activity encouraged by multiple screens and a layout optimized for group viewing, turning regular gatherings into spirited fan events. The space’s ambiance—combining modern décor with comfortable seating—creates a backdrop conducive to conversations and celebrations. Staff training emphasizes creating a welcoming environment, so guests often mention feeling like part of a community or “family” rather than just customers. These intangible aspects, including friendly interactions and event programming, enrich the overall social fabric of The Brass Tap, making it a destination not only for drinks but for memorable group connections.