The Cardinal Bar

Open

Closed

$

$$

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Raleigh

•

counter-service

4.5
Laid-back downtown Raleigh bar with rotating taps, canned beers, hot dogs, pinball, and a shaded patio for easy drinking and socializing.

$

$$

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counter-service

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Now
Closed

📍

The Cardinal Bar

Raleigh

$

Dive bar near downtown Raleigh with rotating taps, legendary hot dogs, pinball, and patio seating. Friendly bartenders and chill atmosphere await.

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About
4.5
(
569
)

The Cardinal Bar is a popular dive spot offering a no-frills experience with an emphasis on great beer selections, hot dogs with well-loved grilled buns, and engaging outdoor seating. The bar features quick service, casual atmosphere, and plenty of entertainment options like pinball and a jukebox, appealing to both solo visitors and groups alike.

What to Expect:

    🍺 Rotating craft beer taps and canned options
    🌭 Specialty hot dogs with classic and veggie versions
    🕹️ Bar games including pinball and jukebox
    🌳 Outdoor patio seating and a laid-back indoor bar area
    🤝 Friendly, knowledgeable bartenders and locals

Important Information:

    – Operating daily from 12 PM to 2 AM
    – Walk-ins only; no reservations accepted
    – 21+ after 9 PM; government ID required
    – Casual dress code with a dive bar setting
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📍 Local Insights

🌭 Must-Try Hot Dogs: The grilled buns elevate their iconic hot dogs, with a highly recommended veggie dog option available.

🍹 Custom Cocktails: Bartenders are happy to craft personalized drinks based on your flavor preferences.

🎲 Entertainment Options: Pinball and jukebox create a lively backdrop early and late, appealing to both locals and visitors.

🚗 Parking Tips: Plenty of free parking is usually available on-site and on nearby streets; plan your visit accordingly.

⏰ Hours

Monday: 12:00 PM–2:00 AM

Tuesday: 12:00 PM–2:00 AM

Wednesday: 12:00 PM–2:00 AM

Thursday: 12:00 PM–2:00 AM

Friday: 12:00 PM–2:00 AM

Saturday: 12:00 PM–2:00 AM

Sunday: 12:00 PM–2:00 AM

👉 Best For

Solo visitors, groups, casual drinkers
No items found.

The Cardinal Bar

713 N West St
,
Raleigh
,
NC
27603

Open in Google Maps

Review Sentiment

Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
The Cardinal Bar is widely praised for its excellent hot dogs, strong beer selection, and friendly bartenders who make memorable cocktails. Patrons appreciate the welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere with outdoor seating and bar games. Some critiques note occasional inconsistent service and a dive bar crowd with heavy drinking late at night, but overall it is a beloved local staple.
Last updated on
December 9th, 2025

From The preserve

Standout Dishes

Watersports Rentals & Experiences

The Selection

Accommodations

Course Stats

Angler’s Offerings

What You'll Find

Rotating Beer Taps; Canned Beer; Hot Dogs; Veggie Dogs; Pinball; Jukebox; Patio Seating; Bar Seating; Walk-Ins Only; No Reservations; Credit Cards Accepted; Free Parking Lot; Free Street Parking; Wheelchair Accessible Entrance; Wheelchair Accessible Restroom

📆 Best Times to Visit

Visit after 9 PM for lively atmosphere; hot dogs shine all day; patio seating best mid-afternoon; expect busier weekends late night.
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