Such a cool hidden gem! This bar is built in the basement, and gives a dark and moody private setting as soon as you enter. To find it, look for the red neon sign at ground level + take the steps down! The exposed brick gives it a very speakeasy vibe and the drinks do not disappoint. They are known for their Old Fashioned but they also have a unique variety of craft cocktails! TIP: arrive early on the weekends because there will be a line or be prepared to wait! (But it’s worth it)

My brother went here for a first date and was really nervous. He left the bar for a moment to see his date out and had full well planned on coming back to pay for the drinks. The bartender decided to run outside and yell at my brother, telling him how he was in the wrong. Story has been circulating among my friends. Never going to Foundation after hearing this.

You might not find this on a list of best cocktail bars, but it should be listed. The cocktail menu isn’t super long, but the bourbon and whisky list is fantastic. And the bartenders are great and personable. Turns into a local vibe later at night when other industry people get off work.

This is a bit hidden and you wouldn’t know it was there if not for the tables outside. Go down the stairs into the bar space that has a great feel- to include exposed brick walls. Creative craft cocktails and there is a constant flow of people in and out- if you are at a table- just share. The cocktails are delicious and you can expect to see one’s that are outside the norm. I love that they always ID (at the top of the stairs) even when there is no question as to legal ability to drink.

Awesome cocktail bar. Best cocktails in Raleigh.

Loved this spot! The drinks were strong, atmosphere was dark and mysterious and the bartenders were knowledgeable and happy to answer all our questions about their featured drinks.

Went last night for 1st time. Great little bar to grab some cocktails, bartenders were great. Delicious assortment of libations . Fun crowd. Cozy, dark, and sultry. Definitely returning.

What a neat place! We got a round of drinks here. The atmosphere was fun and the staff was super friendly!

Such a cute vibe! The place is cute and cozy and great for conversations! Had the best cocktail too and wonderful service!

Our first round, various Old Fashioneds, were excellent but nobody in our party particularly liked their second round choice. The Vieux Carre is not good, why does it have wine?! The (lone?!) staff was very overworked and drinks took a bit long because of that.

After all the years and all the other cocktail bars have come and gone, this is still THE best cocktail bar in Raleigh. No competition.

By far one of the best craft cocktail bars on my go-to list for 2023. The bartender quickly noticed us and cleared our table as people left. I felt an exclusive hidden gem vibe. Very small and intimate. Extremely fitting for the spaces I enjoy. Foundation is tucked away downstairs in a basement-like space. Very easy to overlook. We dropped in for a nightcap. I ordered The Eastside as the bartender suggested. Very good. The bartenders are top-tier and highly experienced. All around good drinks and laid back atmosphere where I enjoyed being in the moment, so much so that I forgot to snap a photo of the menu. It appeared to change, as there were many specialty craft cocktail options. I look forward to coming back soon.

Very casual jeans & t-shirt bar... not the place if you are dressed nice & looking for a vibe. As we were about to walk down the steps, a drunk man tripped up the steps and spilled his drinks all over my suede boots. So yeah....that's the crowd here.

Amazing place to grab some bourbon. The mixed drink menu is really good id you aren't looking for straight whiskey or bourbon. A lot of variety. They have beer, as well. The servers and bartenders are fantastic. Never had a bad drink there. Had a great time, every time.

What a hidden Gem, this living piece of Local History. The story of how it came to be what you see today, pure History. I happen y to know the owner and lived next fort to our German friend Sam! It has such and ambiance of this swanky little Speak Easy. It's been 20ishh years, but I recommend it to all. In fact I mentioned that a newish bar in my town reminded me of this bar. So glad to see it's still open. Go Raleigh Rodders! Not sure not the spelling lol

superb drinks, lovely atmosphere, knowledgeable bartenders. I enjoyed every drink I tried - HIGHLY recommend

I love this place. Wonderful staff, unique and inventive cocktail menu and a well balanced, delicious drink. 10/10

Found this place after our original destination was closed and we are so happy we did. Place was small and busy but the bartenders were crazy efficient. Every cocktail was incredible, but Marge Simpsons Maiden Name was the star. 10/10 great drinks from Rance and the rest of the team

Love this bar! Every cocktail seems so intricate and well thought. I wish I could try them all. The beer selection was eclectic, yet all local. I couldn’t decide on a drink, so I had the bartender make me something from the new menu. I forgot the name, but it was perfect. Not too sweet, and nice and fruity. Everyone there seems to know their stuff. The bar itself is underground on Fayetteville Street. It’s not too large, and it did get busy around 10pm, so be prepared to wait or grab a drink and sit outside. Definitely a must try for locals and visitors alike. Will be back anytime I’m downtown.