I always enjoy coming here. It's easy to just order at the bar and sit wherever you want. You can find college students with laptops or people enjoying cocktails. It's not very large, but also not small and they have outdoor seating. The prices are fair. I ordered a cocktail, appetizer, smash burger and dessert well for under $50. The food drink and food came out fast and was delicious! It was hot and fresh. The drink was perfect. Well balanced and well portioned. The Brussels sprouts were so good! Flavorful and nice texture and the burger was delicious. Great size and served with a side of pork cracklings. You would need to upgrade for a bit extra to get a more traditional side. I will definitely be back here over and over. read more

Disclaimer: I came here only for the smashburger, so this review is limited to that. If you look at reviews for this place, a lot of people compare their burger to In-N-Out. Well, the burger is not as good, and the fries are better than In-N-Out. I went for lunch, and sat at the bar. You order ahead of time, and they bring you your food. Service is pretty quick. They also have a number of house made soft drinks, which is a bonus. They have some good beers on tap, but I didn't try any. The burger was a good burger, but it didn't particularly stand out. They use potato buns, which are really nice. The patties are not especially thin, and the pickles are not the tangy type. An In-N-Out Burger is mustard fried, and they put a special sauce on, but this place doesn't do that. They do have caramelized onions like the animal style burgers. Anyhow, come here for the cocktails, sit on some nice mid-century furniture, enjoy some solid food along with your drinks, but don't come here hoping that you're going to get a burger like In-N-Out. read more

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If you can get a table, Gussie's is a great place to grab a meal and a beverage. You order everything at the bar, and then they'll deliver food to your table. They have a rotating menu of specialty cocktails, some of which are very creative, some are classics, and some are choose your own adventure. They also have house made sodas if you're so inclined. The smash burger, the animals fries, and the crispy Brussels are in heavy rotation with the friends that we usually meet here. They had some pretty cool offerings for Saint Patrick's day too this year. It's overall a cutesy, friendly, and local focused business and I would argue it's a must try (at least once) when you're in Raleigh. Bonus: they have a a cute coffee shop called the Fox Hole attached. read more

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Gussie's is such a fun spot - super casual but still an upscale/quirky vibe which I love. Their smashburgers are amazing, I don't know what's in their Animal sauce but whatever it is... I love it. We also got the frozen Azalea drink and it was 10/10, highly recommend! read more

Gussie's - smashburger, fries & ranch - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Our group needed at spot to grab beer and dinner before a Canes game. My brother-in-law suggested Gussie's. He heard how good their double double smash burgers were and we didn't need anymore convincing to give them a try. We visited on a Monday evening so they weren't too busy. Ordering was super easy, right at the bar. Bartenders were helpful and friendly. All 4 of us in our group ordered the double double smash burger and shared a couple baskets of animal fries. Our order came out quickly. Burgers were hefty, cheesy, and juicy. The potato bun was soft and pillowy. The animal sauce was great on the burger as well as the fries. Fries were cooked well. Everyone was happy with their meal. It's definitely a spot I would return to if given the chance. read more

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Welcome to the Village District's unofficial headquarters for 'I swear I'm only having one drink.' A sprawling sports bar stuffed with plenty of tv's, it features warm wood tones, brown cushy chairs that practically dare you to stand back up, and green booths cozy enough to make you forget you were supposed to root for the other team. The bar itself wraps around the pub like it's giving everyone a big, boozy hug--because nothing says 'community' like arguing over whose team is worse while sharing an order of wings. Take a seat at the wraparound bar, elbows on polished wood, watching the bartender sprint through a cocktail obstacle course--shakers flying, bottles clinking, garnishes disappearing like they owe someone money. They give you that quick 'I see you, please don't leave me' nod before vanishing into another flurry of drink orders. You will wait, amused, slightly thirsty, and oddly entertained, like you've purchased front-row seats to the Olympic finals of Controlled Chaos Bartending. Eventually, your drink arrives--triumphantly--carried by a bartender who looks like they've just survived a small, citrus-scented war. They serve a decent old fashioned--no craft ice, no pretentious sphere the size of a baby planet, no fog machine theatrics. Just a classic tumbler filled with honest-to-goodness clinking cubes that melt at a perfectly normal, respectable pace. Settle in for your second drink, fully expecting it to materialize any minute--only to discover you've entered the Slow-Motion Beverage Dimension. Minutes stretch. The bartender whips past you like a stressed-out comet, offering apologetic half-smiles and 'one sec!' gestures that stopped meaning 'one sec' roughly ten minutes ago. Eventually--eventually--your drink arrives, and it tastes just a little better for the journey. Overall, it's a lively, chaotic Village District adventure--cozy seats, nonstop sports, a friendly bar that hugs the room, and a service pace that keeps you guessing. Cheers! read more

Gussie's - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

The rating is well deserved, great service, great drinks, great food. I'm from out of town and was looking for a neighborhood restaurant bar. Home run read more

Gussie's - Pimento cheese sando and INCREDIBLE shrimp and grits - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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good food and good vibes! mostly came for food, not drinks, so i can't speak to that--but i enjoyed the food! the animal fries and smashburger were great and i LOVED the brussels sprouts. the bartender was very kind and helpful! read more

This is my first time dining at Gussie's in downtown Raleigh, and it did not disappoint. Parking was easy with a paid lot right across the street and if you're lucky, you might even snag a spot directly in front. The moment you walk in, you're transported back in time with retro arthritics, great music, and the option to order right at the bar and sit wherever you'd like. I ordered the Turkey Burger, and this was no ordinary Turkey Burger, the first bite was an absolute win, packed with flavor. I also tried the Pickle Poppers, which were delicious. To finish, I had the Apple Crumble Pie, and it instantly took me back to grandma's house in the best way. If you're looking for a cool vibe, friendly staff, and seriously good food, Gussie's is the place to go. Until next time read more

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Great food, friendly staff and ownership, and a really warm and inviting ambiance. I got their double burger and animal fries and they hit their mark for sure! Inspired by in and out but better. Their plain fries are thick and crispy with the addition animal fries, cheese, and grilled onions definitely 10/10. I've tried their brussel sprouts and meat balls which were also terrific! read more

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The food was amazing. I had the double double smash burger with animal fries. The service was excellent and the ambiance was great. This is my new go place for a delicious burger. read more

Gussies advertise themselves "You're new favorite local spot" and they hit the nail on the head with it. This place is a nice, cozy bar with a friendly atmosphere and a timeless ambiance. Their food hit the spot as well. While I only got three appetizers, they were all hits. The broccolini was well balanced with the almonds, garlic, and sauce. The fries were simple but were solid to say the least (and their house sauce was incredible) and the meatballs were full of flavor and got me excited to go back and try more. The service was quick and friendly as well. Despite the bar being full on a busy Saturday night, we didn't have to wait long at all. I will say, given the size of the bar, I wouldn't go there with more than 6 people max, but it's great for a small meet up or a nice easy date night! Highly recommended if you want to find a new favorite bar read more

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Bottom line: A great meal at Gussie's! The Pesto Pappardella hit the spot and my friend enjoyed his double smash burger as well. Friendly positive service at the bar for ordering. I like this place! The Deets: I stopped by Gussie's one Sunday afternoon with a bud to grab some quick but solid eats while we were walking around enjoying a bit of DTR. I had never got to come by here so I was all for it. Upon entering there is a fair amount of seating both inside and outside, with table and bar seating available on the inside. At this time of day, we got our menus from the bartender and took them to a table to check them out. We did not even go for apps/starters and just went in for our meal choices, giving them to the bartender (menu states to order at the bar). With the great variety the food menu provided, I went with the Pesto Pappardella (spring pea pesto cream sauce, pappardelle pasta, local oyster mushrooms, haricot verts, and crispy prosciutto) while my bud went with Double Double Smash Burger (2 sirloin-brisket patties, American cheese, iceberg, caramelized onion, tomato, pickles, animal sauce on a potato bun). I got my pasta dish and it was perfectly sized/portioned (not a massive bowl but just the size needed). The taste? Wonderful, actually much more delicious than I had anticipated and I enjoyed it all. Equally, my friend devoured his double smash burger with delight. He shared his fries and they were great. Throughout the visit, the bartender was very positive, friendly, and helpful. When you ask for the check, your bill is delivered within an old book, of which ours was the Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew mysteries, nice touch. I'm glad we decided to duck into Gussie's on Morgan St in DTR and I hope to get to enjoy another visit soon! read more

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I have been dreaming about going back for another burger since my visit. It is reminiscent of an in and out burger but even better as it's not fast food. Everything was mouth watering here. Service was friendly and a casual comfy vibe. read more

sweet potato fries are so good and the animal sauce is amazing. great quick spot for dinner!

We had a really great experience here! The ambiance is fun and the food was excellent bar food. They even make some of their own sauces. We ordered at the counter and then sat down to eat. The steak sandwich was unbelievably delicious and the animal fries were crispy and cheesy. read more

Cool bar vibe. Went on a Friday night around 7pm and it was pretty busy. All seating is first come first serve, but people were mozing in and out. They do serve food, our group ordered fried pickles and a couple cocktails. The drinks are definitely on the pricey side, and the overall vibe was a bit loud, but definitely would return. read more

Gussie's - fried pickles, strawberry cider - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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What a cool spot! I loved the vibe as soon as I walked in. They have tables all around, but at least where I was seated you have to order at the bar and then they bring it to you. They also have a good number of patio tables as well. I tried out their orange cream homemade soda and it was freaking delicious. If you are looking for something non-alchoholic and refreshing, highly recommend giving that a try. For dinner I went with the bangers and mash. This is one of my favorite dishes to get when it's on the menu. It was tasty, but a little under seasoned, and I could have used a vat of that delicious gravy. My friend got the smashburger and that was spot on. I would definitely dig into that the next time I head in. I'd also give the animal fries a try next time. The servers/bartender were all friendly and I loved how they give you your receipt in an old book. Parking can get a little annoying over here, you either get super lucky or takes you a minute so plan ahead. Looking forward to heading in again. read more

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This spot is neat. My mom and I stopped in for brunch and had a fun time. I ordered a mimosa and the biscuits & gravy which comes with a side of obrien potatoes. The food and service were both really good. I can't wait to return. read more

Fun and funky are the two best words describe this place! My friend and I stopped in for some champagne, and while there we were enticed by the delicious smells of the onion rings. With such a great atmosphere and staff, as well as a cool theme (think Nancy Drew), it's a must for a quick drink or a full meal. read more

Gussie's - Gussies' bar - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Love the interior of Gussie's. They did an awesome job with the finishes. You order everything at the bar and they bring it out to you. Had a delicious tiki drink and a hazy IPA from a friendly bartender. We tried their twist on a caprese salad with pesto and walnuts, the smash burger which my husband loved, and the turkey melt which came out hot and delicious. The table server was also on point and refilled waters and cleared our table. Lovely that we can walk to this location and enjoy creative drinks and tasty bites. Only complaint was the faint sewer smell that seems to permeate this area! read more

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Such a fun spot! I got the Superfoods salad and it was great! I love the atmosphere inside. The pickle cocktail was very refreshing! read more

Gussie's - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Beautiful ambiance, amazing mixologists, and great food, whether you're looking for a full meal or apps. Can't wait to come back. read more

Gussie's - Amaro Nonino - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Service and food were both excellent. We had a turkey burger with THE BEST and crispiest sweet potato fries, Brussels and a salad. All reasonably priced. We will go back. read more

Our book club met here on a Sunday afternoon. While everyone else enjoyed their coffees I got brunch! The pomegranate lemonade was a little too strong/sweet for me so I needed to add water to cut it down. I expected the salad to be bigger but it was more of a side salad. The server was accommodating with my request to add a protein on there and I got the shrimp added. Shrimp wasn't seasoned well for my liking but I know that was a last minute add. The rest of my table loved their coffees! One of my friends didn't enjoy her frose, the rum in it wasn't to her liking. Overall good ambiance and staff! read more

Lots of gluten free options or things that can be made gluten free which is what I'm always looking for! I got the fish tacos on corn tortillas and they HIT! We also shared the Brussels sprouts and they were perfectly fried and had this really good sweet sauce. Outside seating it nice and you order up at the bar and choose your own spot. Nice place with friendly service, will be back! read more

Two weeks ago me and my date came in and had two beers before arriving. They served me but they cut her off. Fair enough, it's your establishment. But the weekend before that. I witnessed one of the regulars insulting several people, including my friend in front of the same bartender. The tall woman with glasses and tattoos. And she just laughed and said that she was a regular. What's with the extreme nepotism and favoritism? read more

We rely on Yelp for recommendations on new places to go. And Yelp for the win. Gussies is a great spot in Raleigh. Friendly staff, great cocktails and upscale (and good !) bar food. Highly recommend!! read more

Great drinks and food... love the ambience, made me feel like I was in a different city

We absolutely love Gussies! We've probably been upwards of 15 times already, truly. Their menu is always changing, with seemingly some staple items that remain the same (like the smash burger and brussels). Everything is amazing! We have never had a bad dish, which is incredibly impressive considering how often the menu is updated. They even had a themed menu in March for St. Patrick's Day, and all of the Irish options were fantastic. They have tiki Tuesday on Tuesdays as well. Highly, highly recommend. read more

Great burgers, fries and drinks. Homemade orange cream soda was a nice surprise. We really enjoyed eating here will be back.

What a great vibe. Food and drinks are awesome. Staff and owners are great. Will go again soon! read more

We've already been twice and tried nearly everything on the food and drink menu. Everything has been wonderful. The place is beautiful and the owners and staff are top notch. For cocktails, we've loved the Fat Lip and Queen's Park Swizzle. For food we loved the burger, tacos, broccolini, pimento cheese balls. read more

My drinks were fabulous! Service was friendly and fast...very tentative. Atmosphere was unique and quirky. I'd visit again for sure. read more

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Listen...you'll be hard pressed to find a better cocktail anywhere downtown. The staff is on point and so is the vibe. Feels like an old Raleigh neighborhood bar that's been reborn. And don't even get me started on the food. If you don't try the fried oysters...you've already lost. Can't say enough about this place. And they are just getting started. I'll be here everytime im in Raleigh. Period. read more

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Gussie's is a new neighborhood spot for amazing drinks and bites! The atmosphere is so cozy and inviting and makes you want to stay awhile. The drinks and food are delicious! The staff is incredibly nice and attentive. I had the Fat Lip cocktail which is great as it comes across as creamy but also light and refreshing. Love the burger on the menu and the pimento cheese bites. Looking forward to going back! read more

I am blown away at what Gussie's has brought to the table! Raleigh has plenty of restaurants and bars, but Gussie's has brought something new and unique. Having lived in Raleigh for close to a decade, this is the first place that's made me want to become a regular. The food is fresh and made with local ingredients. The cocktails are unmatched. The ambiance is great for a date night, hanging with friends, or having a drink by yourself. I cannot boast enough about the service and the food. Gussie's is highly recommended to anyone wanting an over the top cocktail that won't break the bank and food that you'll still be thinking about days later. read more