The Cardinal Bar

📍 Gay bars in Raleigh

7.8

This establishment stands out as a welcoming haven for those seeking a laid-back yet engaging atmosphere. The rustic charm and eclectic decor create a cozy environment, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The crowd leans toward a relaxed, friendly vibe, with a notable motorcycle enthusiast presence and limited outdoor seating adding to its unique appeal.

The signature hot dogs are a standout feature, praised for their quality and distinctive preparation, though toppings can elevate the price. The bar excels with a well-stocked selection of drinks and a supportive, non-judgmental staff, ensuring every visit feels inclusive. The music variety adds an extra layer of enjoyment, making it a great spot for both casual meetups and solo relaxation.

Features and services of The Cardinal Bar

Service options

  • Outdoor seating
  • Dine-in

Highlights

  • Bar games
  • Fast service
  • Great beer selection
  • Great cocktails
  • Sport

Popular for

  • Solo dining

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair-accessible car park
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings

  • Alcohol
  • Beer
  • Cocktails
  • Food
  • Food at bar
  • Spirits
  • Wine

Dining options

  • Seating

Amenities

  • Toilet

Atmosphere

  • Casual
  • Cosy
  • Trendy

Crowd

  • Groups

Payments

  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • NFC mobile payments

Parking

  • Free of charge street parking
  • Free parking lot
  • Paid parking lot

Pets

  • Dogs allowed

The Cardinal Bar is in position 5 out of 21 in gay bars in Raleigh

Customer Reviews

★★★★★
★★★★★

The Cardinal Bar has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 581 reviews on Google

Brett

Absolutely loved The vibes of this place, if you are the thick-skinned type, this is the place for you. It's got a rusty atmosphere and brings in a traditional crowd, a small amount of patio seating and motorcycle friendly crowd really helps. We came for the supposedly famous hot dogs, which were indeed delicious, though once you start to add some toppings, so does the $$.. the end it paying like $8 per hot dog lol

Brett ☆ 4/5
Justin Jones

I ended up here on a recommendation from a local. I was pleasantly surprised by this place. The drinks were good, the place was clean and pretty well lit. I instantly felt at home here. Can't explain it. But it was really chill. I apparently missed out by not ordering a hot dog. Next time...

Justin Jones ☆ 5/5
Christina

Came for the hot dogs, which did not disappoint as a post-work pick-me-up (the toasted bun was the best part). The indoor space was a bit cramped and doesn't really suit large groups, but the decor is quirky and the staff is nice--enough to make this a fun place for a quick drink with friends.

Christina ☆ 4/5
Madison Stracener

Jen is the absolute best bartender I've ever had. Newly sober and she is the least judgmental and welcoming. Sipping on an NA beer and eating a fantastic hotdog. Couldn't get any bed. Always go see Jen!

Madison Stracener ☆ 5/5
Roger Loving

Great staff. Great hotdogs. Great shots and beers. The music jumps genres regularly so if you dont like the first , the next will probably be a whole new thing. Mayonnaise as the oil of choice to brown the perfect split top bun; not a hot dog...think lobster roll bun, is a signature detail that you'll now see copied at other establishments. I, for one, am glad because it's less beady and more toasty.. Finely chopped onions and jalapenos make for smooth burn and even distribution...a detail often overlooked

Roger Loving ☆ 5/5
Vikki Martin

Preface this by stating we went at lunch time and it wasn't busy. Simple order system where you check what you want on your dogs. Fun signs everywhere. Bartenders super personable. Hot dogs had good texture, perfect amount of tasty toppings and loved the toasted buns.

Vikki Martin ☆ 5/5
Irene Rockwell

Local "dive bar", but very chill and serves lovely grilled hotdogs (and ONLY hotdogs...with toppings) until after midnight. Popular with downtowners who work late, and locals who want a place to grab a drink and convo without pretense.

Irene Rockwell ☆ 5/5
View all reviews

Information about The Cardinal Bar

Address

The Cardinal Bar is located at 713 N West St, Raleigh, NC 27603, United States

Website

The website of The Cardinal Bar is: thecardinalbar.com

Business Hours

Monday: 12:00–02:00
Tuesday: 12:00–02:00
Wednesday: 12:00–02:00
Thursday: 12:00–02:00
Friday: 12:00–02:00
Saturday: 12:00–02:00
Sunday: 12:00–02:00

Contact The Cardinal Bar

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