32 Best Bars in North Carolina, USA

There's definitely a speakeasy vibe going on at this subterranean club downstairs from Caffé Luna. In fact, Watts & Ward is named for the legislative acts that first sought prohibition in North Carolina. With several bars, a terrace, and nooks with sofas and cozy seating, it’s the perfect setting for sipping a scotch or expertly mixed cocktail. There’s often live music.

Winston-Salem's downtown brewery scene is geographically compact yet expansive in variety, and Wise Man is arguably the best among a strong pack of contenders. Choose from over 20 rotating brews, like the punch-packing Body Electric double IPA or the Sufficient Wit Belgian witbier, and grab a seat at any of the shaded picnic tables lining the warehouselike brick taproom.