Cocktail Bar
Unclaimed profileThe Oak Raleigh
Raleigh, NC · $$
Inebrious
Beverage Program Score
The editorial take
The Oak is a scratch kitchen and bourbon bar with a serious beverage program. House cocktails like the Oak Old-Fashioned and seasonal creations show craft, while the bourbon list spans over 100 expressions. Brunch brings its own cocktail lineup, and a dedicated zero-proof section ensures non-drinkers aren't an afterthought.
- What should I order?
- Start with the Oak Old-Fashioned, made with the house-aged blend. For something brighter, the Eighty-Six mixes rum with smoked blackberries. Bourbon enthusiasts should try The Oak House Blend, re-aged in custom barrels on the bar walls.
- Who will enjoy this place?
- Bourbon lovers will find a deep selection and knowledgeable staff. Cocktail enthusiasts will appreciate the mixologist's craft, and those avoiding alcohol have creative zero-proof options. Brunch crowds can enjoy a Bloody Mary or Mimosa.
- When should I go?
- Evenings for the full cocktail and bourbon experience. Brunch is available for those seeking morning cocktails like the Bourbon Bloody Mary.
- What should I expect to spend?
- Cocktails are uniformly $14, with zero-proof options at $7. Bourbon pours range from $9 to $50. Wines are $10-$14 by the glass, $36-$46 by the bottle.
- What makes the beverage program distinctive?
- The Oak's identity as a bourbon bar is reinforced by its house-aged blend, re-aged in custom barrels mounted on the bar walls. The cocktail menu is equally thoughtful, with a dedicated 'Oak Classics' section and seasonal rotations. A zero-proof cocktail menu shows commitment to all guests.
Beverage categories
We only score what a venue sets out to do. Categories a venue doesn't attempt are left unscored rather than penalized.
Cocktails
A well-structured cocktail menu with classic and seasonal sections.
Menu strengths
- — Diverse menu with house classics and rotating seasonal offerings.
- — Brunch-specific cocktails add variety.; Community praise for mixologist Justin's craft cocktails.
Standout selections
- — Oak Old-Fashioned - House-aged blend, classically made, with choice of bitters.
- — Eighty-Six - Rum, smoked blackberries, cinnamon bark syrup, lime.
- — The Muse - Strawberry and rhubarb, praised as refreshing and balanced.
Pricing: All listed cocktails are $14.00; brunch cocktails range from $8.00 for Mimosas to $14.00 for specialty drinks.
Wine
A serviceable wine list with red, white, and sparkling options by glass or bottle. No vintages or producers are listed, but the selection covers common varietals.
Menu strengths
- — Offers a variety of red, white, and sparkling wines.
- — Corkage option available for guests bringing their own wine.
Standout selections
- — Gundlach Bundschu - Red wine by glass or bottle.
- — Brut - Sparkling wine by glass or bottle.
Pricing: Wine prices range from $10 to $14 per glass and $36 to $46 per bottle; corkage fee is $20.
Beer
Beer is available but not detailed on the menu. Guests must ask a Bourbon Specialist for the current selection.
Pricing: No beer prices listed; selection is available upon request.
Nonalcoholic
A dedicated zero-proof cocktail section with creative options like Old Fauxioned. Brunch also offers fresh juices and Bloody Mary mix.
Menu strengths
- — Creative non-alcoholic cocktails with distinct flavor profiles.; Non-alcoholic options available at brunch.
Standout selections
- — Old Fauxioned - Maple syrup, black walnut bitters, soda water.
- — The Jesse - Pomegranate, honey, lemon, ginger ale.
Pricing: Zero cocktails are $7.00; fresh juices are $5.00; Bloody Mary mix is $7.00.
Spirits
An extensive bourbon and whiskey list with over 100 options, including a unique house-aged blend.
Menu strengths
- — Over 100 bourbons, ryes, and whiskeys.; House-aged blend re-aged in custom barrels.
- — Community praise for bourbon flight and staff knowledge.
Standout selections
- — The Oak House Blend - House-aged bourbon with hints of honey, orange, and vanilla.
- — WhistlePig 15yr Rye - Premium rye whiskey.
Pricing: Bourbon prices range from $9 to $50 per pour, with most in the $10-$20 range.
How it sits with the food
The bourbon program pairs naturally with a scratch kitchen's hearty fare. The Bourbon Bloody Mary, garnished with bacon and deviled egg, suggests a savory brunch pairing. The house blend's honey, orange, and vanilla notes could complement grilled meats or rich desserts.
Inebrious does not score kitchens, food or the restaurant overall. We review the beverage program only.
Community reviews
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