The Blind Barbour: Whiskey and Cocktails in Midtown

The Blind Barbour sits at 3055 Medlin Dr. in Midtown Raleigh, inside a strip mall. From the outside it doesn't look like a bar at all. One writer on the Due South blog admitted she double-checked her GPS before pulling in. The bar is behind one of the doors, and once you walk in, the place is easy to recognize: a wall of liquor bottles, the smell of whiskey, seating around the bar and two small booths. It's a small room, so the feel is cozy and neighborhood-style. There is free parking, and the bar accepts major credit cards and company debit cards.

The focus is on drinks. The bar describes itself as a craft cocktail and whiskey bar with almost 200 whiskeys, scotches and bourbons. Several reviewers mention the Tom Yum cocktail, which is described as spicy. One reviewer calls it a good recommendation, and another says it's their favorite. Reviewers also say the bartenders take care with their drinks. One comments that the whiskey on the rocks and bourbon with Coke are made just as well as the specialty cocktails. The Due South article, based on a visit on a weekday evening, lists cocktails at $10 to $13 and beers at $3 to $6. That writer also mentioned the Foothills Jade IPA on the draft list and a daily special of German gose beers for $3. Prices may have changed since that article was written, so check before you go. The bar's price range is moderate, in line with other upscale bars in town.

This is not a place for a full meal. The food menu is small. The Due South writer mentioned homemade pimento cheese dip, Castelvetrano olives and a local chocolate bar. She described it as a spot for a drink and a small bite rather than dinner. Each guest is also asked to sign up for a membership, and the article says every person receives a membership card. Groups are welcome, and the bar is listed as pet friendly and offering Wi-Fi.

The bar is open Monday through Thursday from 5:00 PM to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 5:00 PM to 1:00 AM, and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM. For reservations, private events or tastings, you can call 919-579-1524 or write to contact@blindbarbour.com. The bar has hosted live music and tastings in the past. Its recent listings include a Total Tangent concert on February 12, 2026, with no cover charge, and a Widow Jane tasting in December 2025. Those events have already taken place, so check the bar's events page for what is coming up.