When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge
Why Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge, located on the 14th floor of the Tempo by Hilton hotel in downtown Raleigh, offers an extraordinary setting ideal for social gatherings and memorable meetups. As the tallest rooftop bar in the Triangle area, it boasts panoramic views of Raleigh's skyline—often referred to as the City of Oaks—making it a captivating backdrop for any occasion. The venue combines an elegant yet inviting ambiance with sophisticated decor, highlighted by a striking faux oak tree centerpiece that pays homage to the city’s nickname. This warm and intimate space includes a large indoor lounge with an ample bar and two distinct patios: one covered and heated for year-round comfort, and another open-air with soft, lounge-style seating. This variety allows guests to tailor their experience whether enjoying a cozy evening or basking in the fresh air. Urban Oak's beverage menu showcases twelve signature craft cocktails, complemented by curated selections of wine and beer, all crafted to heighten the sensory experience. The food menu features thoughtfully prepared shareable small plates and larger dishes, including specialties such as patatas bravas, spicy cumin lamb meatballs, and Vidalia onion fritters, designed to encourage convivial dining and easy sharing among friends. Its prime downtown location at 200 W Davie St places it conveniently near other dining and entertainment options, along with accessible parking facilities. Open Tuesday through Thursday from 5 PM to 11 PM, and Friday and Saturday until midnight, Urban Oak is a premier destination for anyone seeking an elevated, lively atmosphere to catch up with friends, celebrate special events, or simply enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Here's what people think of Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge
As of recent, Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge holds a 4.3-star rating based on 121 reviews.
User reviews for Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge generally reflect a positive consensus, as indicated by its strong 4.3-star rating from 121 reviews. Many patrons praise the venue’s breathtaking panoramic views of the Raleigh skyline, which create a stunning atmosphere and visually elevate the overall experience. Positive feedback frequently highlights the unique and tasteful design elements, including the luxurious interior accented by local art and the iconic faux oak tree centerpiece, which adds charm and character. Guests also commend the well-crafted signature cocktails and an eclectic mix of shareable dishes that complement the drinks, emphasizing the high quality and thoughtful presentation of the food. The ambiance is often described as sophisticated yet approachable—capturing the right balance between elevated style and a relaxed lounge vibe, making it suitable for both casual hangouts and special occasions. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional crowding due to the bar’s popularity, which can affect seating availability and sometimes lead to longer wait times, given the first come, first served seating policy. A few visitors note that the rooftop setting may be less comfortable during extreme weather despite the covered and heated patio area. Additionally, some find the pricing moderately high, reflecting the upscale nature of the venue. Overall, the reviews depict Urban Oak as a favored rooftop destination for those seeking excellent drinks, delightful small plates, and an incomparable view in downtown Raleigh, with minor critiques focused on logistical issues typical for trendy city spots. The positive aspects notably outweigh the negatives, securing Urban Oak’s reputation as a premier gathering place in the region.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Fal E
I had the pleasure of being treated here for my birthday. The restaurant was beautiful. Urban Oak is located at the top of new beautiful Tempo Hotel. I enjoyed the experience. Our server was extremely attentive and even made a few suggestions. The spicy lamb meatballs were delicious. The watermelon salad was a hit for a nice summer day. Very refreshing. I also enjoyed the crispy checked thighs and rigatoni pasta. My Moscow mule and sangria were great tasting cocktails for this day hanging out on the rooftop. Everything was very good. I look forward to returning.
nicole procarione
I love a rooftop restaurant and this one was is definitely going in my rotation! The atmosphere is so chic, the food excellent and service was delightful! Our server Kyah was very gracious and helpful. When we asked for bartender's choice for some cocktails, Brandon came out, asked a few questions about our preferences then came out with some spectacular curated beverages that were well balanced. Bravo Urban Oak, I would be delighted to return!
Soo C
The server Jax was incredibly attentive and made the experience smooth from start to finish. All the cocktails were very well-balanced. Food was alright overall a little bit salty for me but nice as a bar food. Will revisit for the cocktails for sure.
Mandy Hurta
I came to this restaurant after having an ‘eh’ experience at a restaurant down the street. Brandon at the bar transformed my evening. I had a unique mezcal cocktail that was delicious and lamb meatballs that hit the spot. After discussing espresso martinis, Brandon twisted my arm (gently) and made one that I did not regret. I will absolutely come back here in the future when in town if nothing more than to hang with Brandon. Thank y’all SO much!!
Jamel Tejeda
⭐☆☆☆☆ Extremely Disappointed – Poor Service and No Concern for Guests’ Comfort I had high hopes for Urban Orak Rooftop, but our experience was incredibly disappointing. We were seated outside on a scorching afternoon, and despite the brutal heat, the staff refused to move us to one of the many open tables inside. We politely asked multiple times, explaining how uncomfortable it was, but were repeatedly told it wasn’t possible—even though we could clearly see several empty tables sitting unused indoors. The lack of flexibility and basic customer care was shocking. It’s one thing to have a policy, but it’s another to completely ignore your guests’ discomfort when a simple solution is right in front of you. The server seemed indifferent and dismissive, which only made the experience worse. We ended up cutting our visit short because it was just too hot to enjoy anything. For a place that markets itself as upscale, the service felt anything but. I won’t be coming back, and I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone who values decent hospitality. Note: We arrived at 9:15pm, we were celebrating my wife’s birthday and we were not even informed that the kitchen was closing, we couldn’t even eat anything. I used to place that they actually inform the group whenever they are close to kitchen closure. Very disappointing!
How to reach Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge
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Why Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge with your friends? Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge offers an unparalleled setting to gather with your circle. Located on the 14th floor of the new Tempo by Hilton hotel in downtown Raleigh, it commands stunning panoramic views of the city skyline—the perfect backdrop for an evening of memorable moments. The ambiance artfully blends modern sophistication with relaxed comfort, making it inviting for groups looking to unwind and celebrate. Whether you're seeking a lively night out or a chic space for intimate conversations, Urban Oak accommodates both with its elegant indoor lounge and spacious outdoor patios. The bar’s vibrant energy combined with a well-curated menu of craft cocktails and shareable plates creates a seamless experience that suits a variety of tastes and preferences. It's a place where the city’s buzz meets ease and style, making it a natural gathering spot that sparks connection, laughter, and enjoyment. For any friend group wanting to rally in a dynamic atmosphere that elevates casual meetups to something special, Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge is a top pick.
What activities and experiences does Urban Oak offer for a group meetup? Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge caters exceptionally well to groups with a variety of social activities that encourage communal interaction and celebration. First, the rooftop setting itself is an activity — guests can enjoy fresh air and expansive views of the Raleigh skyline from two distinct outdoor patios: an open, uncovered patio with dining tables and cozy sofas nestled among lush greenery, and a stylish covered patio with shaded seating and sweeping vistas. These spaces encourage mingling or relaxing in comfort while soaking in the urban scenery. Inside, the bar features a sophisticated lounge area that combines modern glamour with a cozy atmosphere, perfect for conversations and enjoying music without distraction.
The menu supports group sharing, with small plates like patatas bravas and spicy cumin lamb meatballs designed to be passed around, making dining a communal experience. The bar boasts 12 signature craft cocktails alongside a selection of wines and beers, ideal for group toasts or tasting sessions. The combination of elevated food and drink offerings paired with the rooftop vibe transforms simple meetups into festive occasions. Urban Oak’s lively yet sophisticated energy throughout the week creates a fun ambiance whether you’re catching up over cocktails during a Tuesday night or partying into the late hours on the weekend. In addition, the venue’s first-come, first-served seating along with a policy for large groups to reach out directly ensures groups can be accommodated thoughtfully, enhancing the experience of meeting up effortlessly.
Why is Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge the perfect place for group meetups? Several factors make Urban Oak a superior choice for hosting gatherings of friends or family. Its location atop one of downtown Raleigh’s most prominent new buildings gives it exclusivity and accessibility—easy for locals or visitors to reach. The rooftop location ensures an elevated view that sets the tone for extraordinary social experiences unlike typical street-level bars. The design thoughtfully balances indoor and outdoor environments for diverse weather conditions and group preferences, fostering comfort all year round.
The carefully crafted menu encourages sharing and sampling, which naturally promotes interaction and conversation among guests. The bar’s diverse cocktail selection pairs well with a curated menu of bites and desserts, pleasing varying palates and dietary preferences. The overall vibe combines bustling energy with refined style, appealing to groups that want both a lively atmosphere and a classy setting where they can truly relax and connect.
Moreover, Urban Oak's policy welcoming groups of 8 or more with special accommodations demonstrates a commitment to making group meetups seamless and enjoyable. They encourage proactive communication to ensure space and service needs are met, supporting smooth events without hassle. The venue’s smart casual dress code and 21+ age restriction maintain a sophisticated environment suitable for adult socializing, further reinforcing its appeal for meaningful, stylish gatherings. Thus, Urban Oak Rooftop Bar & Lounge is not just a bar; it’s an elevated destination crafted to bring people together in the heart of Raleigh with style, comfort, and unforgettable views.