I love Killjoy! I went for an event but outside of that it's the cutest bar for and depending on the night you'll find a dope dj playing music. The vibe feels romantic if you're out for drink with bae as you can be nestled in your own area with the comfort couches but it's also a dope place to visit with girlfriends for a drink to catch up for some friend time! There's plenty of space and areas to sit and stand depending on the crowd. read more

Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

See all

Fun spot for a mocktail or cocktail. Comfy seating. Super friendly bar tenders. We were there early on a Friday so it was super chill with great tunes playing. Fun decor : ) Kissing booth : ) read more

See all

I came out for the Offline Members-only preview of their holiday pop-up, and let me just say... they did not hold back on the Christmas spirit. The whole place looks like it exploded with lights, tinsel, giant ornaments, and every bit of holiday magic you can imagine. It honestly felt like stepping right into a snow-globe party. The Christmas soundtrack was phenomenal. They mixed classic songs with fun disco vibes, and it kept the energy up the entire night. Members also got a complimentary drink from the new Miracle menu, and I went with the Yippee Ki Yay Mother F*****r. It was really good and came in the cutest Santa-boot cup. The only thing missing? Food. I wish they served something small to snack on so I could've stayed and ordered more drinks without thinking twice, lol. The vibe was cheerful and lively--people were taking pictures, talking, laughing, and soaking everything in. It's truly one of those places you want to hang out in just a little longer. If you're looking for a place to get into the holiday mood, Killjoy is definitely the spot. I had a great time and already want to go back once the pop-up officially opens. read more

See all

I came here for an offline event to check out the Christmas theme bar. The cocktail menu was kind of big and had lot of choices. Some of the drinks came in cute holiday mug style cups. I got a Christmas cosmo and it was really good. They had a few different colored theme rooms for Christmas and a selfie room. The bartender was very helpful and there was plenty of seating inside and out. Would come to this place again. read more

Killjoy - Holiday drinks - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

It has been years since we went to Killjoy but I am so glad we ventured back in! The cocktails are out of this world, bartenders are friendly and it is a Christmas wonderland right now! I ordered the Yippee Ki Yay which was absolutely amazing. Great flavor and a fun purple color from the ube. Husband ordered the Krampus which was super spicy! He likes spicy things but this one was definitely a supper. So while he sipped on that I ordered the Christmasopolitan which was also nicely done. Overall a fabulous evening out for cocktails. read more

See all

What a gorgeous backdrop for a crafty cocktail bar (even better during the holidays)! Hubs and I stopped by for the Miracle at Killjoy and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and the stellar decor. This is actually one of the nicest Miracle Pop-Up venues I've visited, and I've visited a lot! The cocktails are tasty, the bartenders are friendly, the service is prompt, and the holiday cheer runneth over at Killjoy. #TisTheSZN read more

See all

Awesome cocktails! Fun vibes! Lots of indoor and outdoor space with fun decor. Our bartender was very fun and creative. Made us custom drinks that were amazing! read more

This place was great! We came on a Sunday night and the bartender was friendly and nice. He was attentive, and made recommendations. As for the location, it's well kept with plenty of space. The drinks themselves were amazing, with a wide selection to choose from. Fairly priced as well though it can be tricky not to get carried away so be cautious. A nice touch I noticed was that the bathrooms contained mints and mouthwash for one to freshen up. All in all, it was a nice experience and I'll def be back again. read more

See all

My friends and I were going out for a girls night and I found Killjoy on my search for fun bars. It DID NOT DISAPPOINT. The bartenders were so attentive and fun, the cocktails were delicious, they have a great variety, and the presentation was beautiful (one of mine came with a pink cowboy hat). There are two different lounge-style rooms and the one next to us was playing Bob Ross on the tv. If you're looking for a bar that checks all the boxes - delicious, affordable, atmosphere, and Instagram-worthy photo ops - you cannot miss Killjoy! read more

Killjoy - One of my cocktails - look at the pink cowboy/derby hat - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Discovering new cocktail bars while traveling is always a must for me. I was recently in Raleigh and found myself wanting to grab a night cap after a long day. Yelp brought me to Killjoy and I was so happy to have discovered it. First of all, the decor is great. There's a large main room with a pretty big bar, as well as a room on the side that has quirky yet welcoming decor. Since it was a weeknight it was pretty empty, but I didn't mind the chill vibes. My bartender was super nice and made a great dirty martini. Their liquor selection seems extensive, and their cocktail menu was impressive too. It's open late, and the drinks are well priced. Would definitely go back. read more

Killjoy - Dirty Martini - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

If you're looking to get poppin on a Tuesday, definitely come to Killjoy! They're starting R&B night on Tuesdays and the deejay is fireeee. He lit up the dance floor not only with his charming smile, but his beats. Not a large area to dance at, but I'm sure they'll make improvements with this! They've got such great cocktails, the ambiance is Instagrammable, and the bartenders are friendly and attentive. If you're coming with a large group, you're able to reserve tables! They also have outdoor seating as well if you want a quieter place to chat. Highly recommend this spot for visitors! read more

See all

Visited on December 21, 2022 and 12/31/2022 I love the space here and how it speaks to a more professional crowd of adults. The cocktails are always great. No complaints there. I wouldn't say I like this new service vibe here, Kill Joy. No host at the door. No warm welcome, no greetings, or anything. These proactive things I've mentioned added value and set KillJoy apart from all the typical bars in this area. The service here has declined significantly, and I'm assuming this is the economic decline or a change in management. Or perhaps business is slow, and the extra pleasantries and warm and polite approach are no longer part of killJoy. I witnessed poor service on (Thursday) evening when there were only five customers in the bar, and I was surprised. KillJoy is a spot I have frequented over the last two years for many special occasions. I think the person behind the bar was not present to acknowledge customers unless you were sitting at the bar. He was just there scrolling through his phone and socializing with an employee. A guy in a group of three asked how they could get drinks, and I pointed to the bartender. Since there was never an acknowledgment, those 3 customers walked out. I did speak to the manager (off duty but in the back). She came out. I want to say her name is Kat. Not apologetic at all: but said the bartender serves who approach him, and that's KillJoy style now. Strange. I was invited back here on NYE and joined a table a friend purchased, and the same "approaching" service was required even after my friend paid for the table and bottle. Not sure about the details of her package, but it's odd to have customers who reserved tables approach the bar themselves. Are you all short-staffed? You were not even that crowded, NYE. I love this place for how it used to be, but I guess all good things end. read more

See all

This place is amazing! I came here with my friend to celebrate her birthday in December. The Christmas decorations were perfect! The drinks also came in cool cups and were delicious! The service was fantastic. We spent most of the night there just and I have to say, I'm pretty pleased and will definitely be back. read more

See all

Came here on a Saturday evening around 730pm The place was maybe less than half full. Great looking spot, bright with plenty of comfy seating. The bartender was a bit cold and ZERO help. This is the convo I had with her Me: do you all have mezcal? Her: yes (she names them off, tbh idk types like that) Me: bottom shelf? Her (knowingly smiles) Me: any cocktail recommendations with mezcal ? Her: besides Margarita, I wouldn't know. Wait what?! This is a cocktail bar isn't it? I have never been to a cocktail bar where the bartender couldn't put together a customer's drink based on preference of liquor. I was thrown. The conversation itself was fine, it was just the interaction in general too with the rest of our party that was cold. She then runs all our cards and doesn't even ask if we wanna close out. It wasn't till we were leaving that I realized we never got the bill. I always close out so when she handed me my card initially, I thought it was closed (even though it should have registered that I never got the bill to sign). Anyway, she wasn't the greatest. The person we closed out with was better. The DJ was just setting up for afrobeats night but we had to leave unfortunately. The place was super empty by then. Hopefully it filled up later. It was all before 9pm. I forgot to mention I got the Texas Tini. It was okay. Maybe I'd be back. Not sure. read more

See all

We had a great experience at Killjoy. We showed up right when they opened and had two rounds of drinks. It was packed because of a networking event but we had a great time anyway. Our service was speedy and delightful with well crafted beverages. Bring your phone for a photo op against the wallpaper in this place. The walls and decor are EVERYTHING. Even in the restroom. I loved the "What in Carnation" and can't wait to return to get it again. read more

See all

Killjoy was such a hidden gem. Super eclectic! I loved everything about the interior decor. We came at the perfect time because there weren't many people there, so we could really enjoy ourselves and all of the seating areas. We tried a few drinks like the beach bonfire, old fashioned and the grass is greener. All of the drinks were so good and the bartenders were helpful. Around 9pm, there's a DJ that comes in. More people definitely started coming around that time, so if you're look for good drinks and vibes, check out Killjoy! read more

See all

One of the bars with the nicest aesthetic in Raleigh. On the weekends, it is live music and they can get really fun during the week is very chill. read more

Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

If you're looking for an instagram spot, this is the place for you! I wanted to live this place, it's super cute. The service was almost non-existent and the self-service water was convenient but gave it a casual brewery feel. Enjoyed the French Kiss, but the G&T (went off menu for my second one) was way better. Overall, was underwhelmed and probably won't be back, mostly due to the service. read more

Killjoy - French Kiss - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I don't know how I'd never been to killjoy but my first experience was a beats and brunch event and I had a wonderful time, it's Instagram weather with gorgeous decor. The drinks were okay, I expected a bit more from a cocktail lounge but the vibes made up for that. It's spacious but intimate at the same time and the outdoor seating is a plus. Parking can be a drag because of downtown but there are pay lots close by. read more

Killjoy - Mocktail pop up at Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

See all

I came here on a Saturday night to celebrate my birthday, and I was disheartened when my group and I encountered the bartender. She seemed extremely disinterested and was a bit condescending when we asked about some of the cocktails on the menu. The rest of the staff seemed nice, but it kind of soured our mood. Hopefully we just got her on a bad night because I wouldn't want anyone else to have to deal with that. read more

Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Bartender seemed extremely disinterested. Drinks were ok, maraschino cherry used for Manhattan is not expected for high end prices. There is SO much going on in the decor, it is hard to relax. Lots of Selfie spaces if that is something you enjoy. Probably a pretty happening place later in the evening . read more

I thought this was a pretty fun cocktail bar with great energy! Staff was fun to interact with and was knowledgeable about the drinks. I'm a huge fan of the unique drink selection and tastes they were offering. The establishment has great looking seating and can be quite intimate. Only issue I saw is that the place seemed to be pretty popular so a large party (or a booked event?) came in so noise came in! But it wasn't a major problem - glad they were all having fun. I'd like to return if I'm ever in the area again! read more

Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

This place was an unexpected gem! Amazing atmosphere and delicious drinks. Try the Godcousin! It's sooooooo good. Pineapple ,cognac , amaretto, lemon and cinnamon(frozen). Definitely recommend and will be back! read more

Killjoy - GodCousin - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Cutesy spot for the girlies! Seasonal drinks and lots of cozy couches. Giving 4 stars instead of 5 cause the Rama fizz drink was not good. Chill vibes read more

I'm visiting from New Jersey and had THE best time at Killjoy Friday night! All of the bartenders were amazing. I had the frozen cocktail "godcousin" and the kick of cinnamon was oddly satisfying. A dj named UncoolKevv came around 9pm with great music and the entire place was packed shortly after. No worries because they do not charge a cover & there's plenty of space to sit/dance! I will definitely be back when I visit Raleigh again! read more

Killjoy - Godcousin - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I love Killjoy! I come here all the time to start my night with my friends and the vibe is always awesome. Most of the people here are 25+, but sometimes they have huge parties where more young people come, so you just have to play it by ear to see what kind of crowd you'll get. I really love the music and the bartenders are great! I've never had a bad drink from here. read more

Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Great little cocktail bar just of Glenwood in Raleigh. Loved the women bartenders and their tasty takes on various cocktails. It was hard to chose which to try. I got the EZ LVR and it was a great choice, not too sweet and not to alcoholy. The decor of this bar is very cool and I thought it was interesting and hat most of the clientele were women. I definitely felt very comfortable there and could see coming here for a girl's night. Indoor and outdoor seating available. read more

Killjoy - EZ LVR - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

See all

This place is definitely a vibe! The bartenders will take good care of you! Please visit asap!

Our waitress CeeCee was AMAZING!..oh, and the drinks are to die for!! Chill atmosphere (call ahead and make a reservation), fun people enjoying their libations and yummy tapas to munch on. What are you waiting for?..get dressed and go! read more

Killjoy - GodSon (umbrella) and Hi Bish - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Worst cocktails. Everything is watered down and tastes like only one ingredient. Had really high hopes over the ingredients that went in but you don't taste any of the complexities of the fragrant ingredients. Ambiance was cool but we ordered 4 drinks and they were all below expectations (plum luck, coffee & starfish, fruit for thought) read more

Killjoy - Coffee & Starfish (tastes like an old flat Coke) - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I loved the decor of this place. It feels like you are in a speakeasy or the salon of a big fancy house. Perfect place to go catch up with a friend as there was lots of seating and it wasn't too loud. The bar tender was friendly and the drinks fantastic. I recommend the margarita flight! I will definitely be back. read more

Killjoy - Margarita Flight - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Cool spot with great drinks and neat selection of mocktails. I can definitely see this being a cool girls night out spot, but I enjoy going on a date night before dinner. Cool interior, neat specialty drinks, and music is always on point. Check it out if you are in the area! read more

Killjoy - Mocktail - Just a Spritz - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

This is an updated review after coming multiple times since my first review five months ago. This has been our favorite bar to go to for months, now. Anytime a friend mentions going out, we mention Killjoy. The ambiance here is great; the lighting isn't harsh and is great for time with friends or a date night. The decor is very unique and almost gives the vibe of a modern speakeasy. They offer your typical cocktails, like an old-fashioned, while also offering cocktails that I've never seen anywhere else, such as the cocktail they have with lucky charms. They have been having a DJ during weekends, which has been a refreshing change from the lack of live music. We went to their cocktail class last week and we had so much fun while learning to make our own cocktails. The bartender was very patient and didn't mind breaking things down a little more, when needed. The cocktails were delicious. Really enjoyed the simple margarita we were taught to make, as it is something quick and simple while not sacrificing taste. Although it is possible to walk in, I would advise reservations if coming on a weekend night. The photo booth is super fun, too! read more

See all

I am so glad I found this gem on Yelp while visiting Raleigh. I have an alcohol intolerance, so I always am looking for a place that has mocktails on the menu. Unfortunately, my searches always come up pretty dry (no pun intended) and I always am disappointed with the lack of diversity and the mojo the place gives off. This is the complete opposite experience I had at KillJoy, I am actually highly considering moving to Raleigh just so I can live at this place. The staff was so friendly and welcoming to my group. Each one of us ordered a mocktail and the waitress was so nice and was so supportive of us either doing a dry January or not drinking in general. What was cool was you could make any of the mocktail items a cocktail if you wanted. I ended up adding vodka to the Ginger Limeade to celebrate my 25th Birthday and it was so good. The drinks were refreshing and adorable. You could tell the ingredients they were using were high quality. They weren't too sweet or too sour and had the perfect amount of kick and flare to them. The Tahini Colada was literally UNREAL. Unfortunately, they ran out the night I was there so I was only able to enjoy one. The table also enjoyed the rest of the mocktail menu but that drink was the winner, hands down. Not to mention, the aesthetic of this place was amazing. I was sad that I had to stay put in my chair because of COVID and so I wasn't able to explore the many different room/wallpaper themes they had throughout the place. They even have a little photo room where you can take cool funky pictures. People were taking pictures everywhere, left and right. My group brought our polaroids and it was so much fun. It was just such a chill and welcoming environment I could have stayed there all day and night. The music was on POINT my Shazam was going all night -- I wish I asked them for a playlist. It is the perfect spot for a date night as it is cozy, comfortable and intimate. I am obsessed with this place. I can't wait to visit again. read more

Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

See all

We stopped by Killjoy twice to try the Ube Old Fashioned and the Mouse king special. The environment and design was fun and they take temps at the door and follow social distancing requirements so I felt fine going in! I went with a couple friends and it felt like a cool little hangout! We ordered a few appetizers and the two drinks we wanted to try, however they were out of certain ingredients to make both so we opted for options they suggested and we weren't disappointed. They even offered us to try their private Makers Mark label which was delicious. We had a great time on our first visit so we inquired when they would receive another shipment so that we could try the two drinks we really wanted to try. They provided us with a day so we made a point to visit the day after the day they were to receive the shipment. Our second visit was just fine, however, when we ordered the two drinks again, they weren't able to offer it due to missing ingredients. Again we had a good time, but we're very disappointed that we still weren't able to order what we originally wanted to order when we wanted to try this place. read more

See all

I can't say I was a huge fan. We stopped in for a drink having made a reservation before and we were about 30 mins early, but they were able to seat us, which is awesome. When you enter, you're greeted by the hostess and asked to step in front of a screen that "confirms" that you're wearing a mask, and then hold your wrist out for your temperature to be taken. All of this is great, no complaints. That's when we noticed there was absolutely no distancing going on whatsoever. We were seated right in between two other tables - I could casually reach my arm out and touch the person next to me, so that didn't make me feel too comfortable. Employees were wearing masks or bandanas, but no one else was at any point after being seated. My husband ordered a Lucky something cocktail and it did taste like Lucky Charms, but it was so sweet and oddly clear. I got the Baby 81 and it was just plain weird...like it was trying to be a couple of different things and couldn't decide which. We decided to just have our drinks and go because we weren't entirely comfortable and the drinks didn't wow us. Prices are comparable to other cocktail bars nearby, so I think we'll stick with those when they're able to reopen. read more

This is such an awesome spot, great atmosphere! There are heaters on the patio which makes it nice to sit outside. We only went for drink and it was so worth it, some of the best cocktails I have had! Our waitress was amazing, very attentive and knowledgeable of the menu. They employees all wear mask and the check temperature on the wrist on entrance! read more

Killjoy - Weather broadcaster at the back and godcousin in the front! - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I'm a little torn on this spot. I like the vibes (of course, it's very similar to Haymaker) but I'm not sure if I'll like this spot post-COVID because it could be a little too IG (Instagram) for me. The drinks were interesting and good but not my favorite. For round 1 we tried the Baby 81 and Liberty Square and for round 2 we tried the Ube Old Fashioned and The Luckiest. I did really like that this cocktail bar offered spirit-free cocktails. It's definitely worth checking out just make a reservation before you go. read more

See all

Really cool, different cocktails! The prices are steep, but I think probably worth the splurge every now and then. The location is great, off the chaos of Glenwood. And great ambiance! read more

See all

I enjoyed my time here. I visited for a wine tasting event and got there a little early so got to the the bartender. He shared that he pressed his own juice for the days special. Super friendly and knowledgeable. They make craft cocktails the decor was nice and just an all around good vibe. I will be back here for sure. read more

Killjoy - Cocktail Bars Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina