When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
The Flat Drum
Why The Flat Drum is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Flat Drum is a standout food truck based in Raleigh, North Carolina, acclaimed for its fiery and flavorful wings and chicken tenders made from scratch. Owned and operated by a local Black entrepreneur, this food truck has quickly become a favorite spot for wing enthusiasts seeking high-quality, homemade food on the go. Every item served is crafted with care using premium ingredients, ensuring that each bite bursts with authentic flavor. The Flat Drum prides itself on offering a menu entirely featuring scratch-made sauces, setting it apart from typical fast-food wing providers. With multiple weekly locations disclosed via their social media and Streetfinder, it is extremely accessible for both locals and visitors craving a delicious meal. This vibrant eatery offers a relaxed and convenient environment perfect for meeting friends casually or indulging in a flavorful, quick meal. It’s an excellent choice for those who value unique culinary experiences and supporting local Black-owned businesses. Whether you’re a chicken lover or simply looking for a satisfying food truck experience in Raleigh, The Flat Drum provides a memorable and delicious destination.
Here's what people think of The Flat Drum
As of recent, The Flat Drum holds a 4.4-star rating based on 27 reviews.
Reviews of The Flat Drum consistently highlight the fresh, high-quality taste of their wings and chicken tenders, with many customers praising the richness and originality of their homemade sauces. Reviewers appreciate the scratch-made approach, noting that the quality sets The Flat Drum above many other food trucks. Many positive comments mention friendly service, consistent flavor, and a great vibe at the truck’s locations. According to the reviews, the accessibility of the food truck’s locations and its presence on social media helps customers find it easily. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional wait times due to popularity and busy hours, as well as limited menu variety for those seeking additional options beyond wings and tenders. A few users reported minor inconsistencies in sauce spiciness or portion sizes, which seemed to be isolated experiences. Overall, the reviews reveal a loyal customer base enthusiastic about the quality and creativity of The Flat Drum’s offerings. The balance of positive feedback and minor critiques suggests a thriving food truck delivering authentic, scratch-made wings with a strong local following in Raleigh.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Brittany
So glad we chose this place at red corners! The food was so good. I had the garlic Parmesan boneless wings and the boyfriend had the og hot buffalo with sweet potato fries! We love wings and this place definitely is on my top best places!!! Also the staff is very kind and very helpful!
James Noel
Food was great highly recommend! Thanks for the hot honey recommendation! I also remembered to take a picture of it before it was gone!
T. Instructor
It’s good, but extremely expensive. Four piece chicken with no fries is $13. The fries were an additional $8. Basically $22 for a kids meal. Would not do it again. Taste was good, but not for that price. This was $35.
Eric Nessl
Caught them at Eno River Brewing in Hillsborough. Wings (hot honey & garlic parm), Mac and cheese, and waffle fries were delicious. First time leaving a review for a food truck. That’s how good it was.
BroomStickNinja Javi
Order : 6pc wings with waffle fries. Half honey BBQ and half Sweet and Spicy 🍍. Okay as someone who orders wings and Nachos at every establishment that serves them- I'm ridiculously impressed by these wings in particular. Wasn't sure if a 6pc would be filling enough, but man was I wrong- super juicy wings AMAZING flavor and crunch with every bite. You know how wings come with dipping sauces? Usually I'm all about the blue cheese, but these wings are so delicious and flavorful that dipping sauces just detract from that. These have to be some of my favorite wings and waffle fries, everything about them was a massive hit. Taste, presentation, texture and to top it all, very personable staff running the truck. Shout-out to Harvey for being awesome! If you see them rolling around, make this a stop- you definitely will not regret it!
How to reach The Flat Drum
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Website: None
Why The Flat Drum may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Flat Drum with your friends?
Gathering with friends and family is always special, but choosing the right spot can amplify that experience exponentially. The Flat Drum, a celebrated food truck in the Triangle area of North Carolina, offers a compelling reason to rally your group and make memories here. Known for its distinct scratch-made wings and innovative flavors like spicy peanut butter and jelly, The Flat Drum elevates casual dining to an adventurous culinary outing. With a solid 4.4-star rating from 27 reviews, it clearly has won over many taste buds, becoming a favorite black-owned local business that brings the community together. The rustic, vibrant atmosphere around its truck locations combined with the buzz of great food makes The Flat Drum a lively setting to reconnect and enjoy quality time. Whether you're craving classic garlic parmesan wings or the daring Bang Bang variety, the flavors promise to spark conversation and shared delight, which is exactly what makes it perfect for group meetups. Beyond just food, the experience of coming together by the truck, sharing plates, and tasting bold, fresh flavors bonds groups and creates lasting memories, turning a simple meal into a meaningful gathering.
What unique food experiences does The Flat Drum offer for groups?
At the heart of The Flat Drum's appeal is its menu, bursting with unique wing flavors and chicken sandwiches that cater to diverse palates. The variety ensures that everyone in your group finds something enticing, whether you prefer a fiery kick or something more savory. Signature offerings include unforgettable Bang Bang Wings and Garlic Parmesan Wings—both dishes highlighted by fans as standout crowd-pleasers. But they don’t stop there; the truck’s innovative spirit shines in unusual yet tantalizing options like spicy peanut butter and jelly wings, blending sweet, spicy, and savory in a way few places can. This adventurous menu makes The Flat Drum particularly exciting for groups eager to share and sample a range of tastes. Such variety encourages the classic "taste and tell" group dynamic, enhancing the social aspect of dining. And because everything is made scratch, the freshness and quality translate to a satisfying, crave-worthy bite that elevates your shared meal into something remarkable and memorable.
Why is The Flat Drum's atmosphere ideal for group meetups?
The Flat Drum operates primarily as a food truck, which naturally creates a casual, dynamic environment great for social gatherings. The informal setting encourages mingling, standing or sitting outdoors, and sharing plates in a way that formal restaurants often don't allow. Located often near breweries like Steel String or community hotspots, the truck becomes a nucleus of energy and good vibes, perfect for reconnecting with friends or family. Its vibrant, approachable vibe breaks down barriers, inviting everyone to leisurely enjoy the meal and each other's company. Additionally, the outdoor setup is ideal for larger groups or those wanting to catch some fresh air while dining. Because the truck moves between a couple of locations weekly, it also offers a sense of excitement and spontaneity about where you might meet next, keeping group outings fresh and engaging. The Flat Drum’s fun, lively ambiance paired with freshly made comfort food creates an inviting space that’s especially conducive to celebrating togetherness.
What activities and amenities make The Flat Drum stand out for group gatherings?
While primarily a food truck focused on delivering a standout culinary experience, The Flat Drum situates itself at locations that often have complementary activities conducive to group hangouts. For example, the frequent setting at Steel String Brewery adds a natural pairing of craft beer and flavorful wings that groups can savor together. This combination allows guests to extend their visit beyond food, enjoying tasting sessions and relaxed conversation in a communal environment. Such locations may also feature outdoor seating, games, or music that encourages playful group interactions and a festive mood. The ability to book or locate the truck through their social media channels adds convenience for groups planning outings. Moreover, the truck’s black-owned business identity adds a layer of cultural pride and community support, which many groups appreciate as part of their gathering experience. These factors collectively make The Flat Drum not just a meal stop but an occasion spot where good food meets good fun with friends or family.
Why is The Flat Drum considered a reliable and highly recommended spot?
The consistently high ratings and glowing reviews attest to The Flat Drum’s quality and dedication to customer satisfaction. With a 4.4-star average from 27 reviewers, patrons frequently remark on the exceptional taste and quality of the wings, sometimes calling them the best in the Triangle area. Such testimonials lend confidence to new visitors about the value and flavor awaiting them at the truck. The owners’ commitment to scratch-made recipes and unique flavor profiles highlights a serious culinary craft that impresses food lovers and casual diners alike. Moreover, the business’s strong social media presence keeps customers engaged and informed, creating a loyal fan base and a welcoming community feel. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, The Flat Drum’s reputation for excellent wings, friendly service, and lively atmosphere makes it a dependable destination that meets and often exceeds expectations for group dining experiences.
How can you plan a meetup at The Flat Drum effectively?
Planning a meetup at The Flat Drum is straightforward and enjoyable thanks to their active booking system and social media updates. The truck posts its weekly locations and availability, allowing groups to coordinate their visits accordingly. Sending an email to their booking contact ensures that larger groups can arrange a time that suits their schedule and possibly receive personalized service. Given the popularity of signature dishes such as Bang Bang Wings, planning ahead helps avoid long waits and allows the group to dig in right away. Also, pairing the meetup with nearby breweries or community events maximizes the fun, turning a food stop into a full-day experience. Social media on platforms like Instagram offers real-time updates and mouth-watering glimpses of the menu, which helps build anticipation and plan conversations around favorite flavors. By leveraging these tools, groups can enjoy a seamless and exciting outing that celebrates great food, good company, and the unique charm that The Flat Drum brings to the table.
What do customers say about their experience at The Flat Drum?
Customer feedback consistently highlights the outstanding flavor and quality of The Flat Drum’s wings, often describing them as the best in the region. Reviews mention the fantastic cooking technique and the fresh, bold seasoning that elevates each bite into a delightful experience. Many patrons also appreciate the friendly and welcoming atmosphere presented by the staff and the communal vibe that the food truck setting creates. The unique wing flavor options receive special mention for expanding the usual wing repertoire, including the popular garlic parmesan and spicy innovative blends. Customers also note the convenience of the truck’s locations near lively spots, which makes combining food with other activities easy and attractive. This positive word-of-mouth helps maintain the truck’s strong reputation as a go-to spot for groups wanting a casual yet memorable meal out.
How does supporting The Flat Drum reflect on community and culture?
Patronizing The Flat Drum means more than just enjoying a wonderful meal; it’s an opportunity to support a thriving black-owned business that embodies community spirit and culinary creativity. The truck’s scratch-made recipes and unique flavors are a testament to entrepreneurial passion and cultural pride. Supporting it encourages diversity in the local food scene and helps sustain a business that gives back to its neighborhood through quality offerings and engagement. Many customers find added value in contributing to a business that supports local suppliers and creates jobs within the community. In doing so, groups not only indulge in memorable food experiences but also align themselves with positive social impact and cultural appreciation, making their gatherings at The Flat Drum even more meaningful.
What makes The Flat Drum’s wing flavors so distinctive?
The Flat Drum is renowned for pushing the boundaries of traditional wing flavors with inventive blends that wow the palate. Their menu showcases classic favorites like garlic parmesan alongside daring innovations such as spicy peanut butter and jelly wings. This unusual flavor laziness reflects a thoughtful culinary approach, combining textures and tastes rarely paired together to create a balance of heat, sweetness, and savoriness. The wings are cooked to perfection—crispy and tender inside—allowing the sauces to coat them generously without overpowering the natural chicken flavor. Such creative flavor profiles turn an everyday food item into a culinary adventure perfect for sharing and discussing within groups, adding an element of fun and curiosity to your meetup. It’s this combination of taste novelty and quality craftsmanship that sets The Flat Drum apart in a crowded market.
Why should you choose The Flat Drum for family meetups?
Family meetups require a setting that is relaxed, accommodating, and offers something for everyone, qualities that The Flat Drum provides in abundance. Its casual food truck format means families can gather outdoors comfortably without the formality of sit-down restaurants. The wide variety of wings and chicken sandwiches caters to different ages and taste preferences, ensuring that children and adults alike can find something enjoyable. The festive, low-key environment encourages interaction and easy movement, which is especially beneficial for families with kids who appreciate a more flexible dining experience. Additionally, the opportunity to pair meals with nearby breweries or parks creates a wholesome outing that balances great food with outdoor fun. Choosing The Flat Drum combines delicious food with a family-friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to connect over a satisfying meal in a stress-free environment.