Competition is usually a good thing for customers and that’s certainly the case with sports bars in the S. Glenwood area! Within half a mile you’ll find Tobacco Road Sports Raleigh, Napper Tandy’s, Village Draft House and Raleigh Beer Garden all offering good bar food and beer for the big game. So when I heard Carolina Ale House was opening up its new flagship restaurant on S. Glenwood, I wondered what they were up to. Once construction finished up in late January 2015, I knew exactly what!
Located on 500 Glenwood Avenue, you can’t miss the new Carolina Ale House! It sits high above the street on the third floor with bright signage. Take the three flights up or grab the elevator up. Up front you’ll find the hostess kiosk, you’ll need her help since all the seating in the restaurant is assigned outside of the bar seating. And there is PLENTY of seating at this new Carolina Ale House with at least three interior dining rooms along with a strip of patio dining area around the edges. Carolina Ale House is now one of the largest sports bars around!
And there are TV’s everywhere from 32″ to probably 60″. It seems like the walls are either covered with TV’s, posters or photos so you will have something to look at wherever you are. While you’re watching, quaff one of the many micro-brews that Carolina Ale House has on tap or by the bottle. Without counting, I’d have to guess they have at least 120 or so beers available, very impressive. Don’t forget $3 pint night on Wednesdays, too!
For food, Carolina Ale House has a pretty standard bar menu, I’ve tried out their nachos, pulled pork tacos and wings which have all been solid. On par with the other sports bars in the area but not quite as good as Tyler’s. I’ll report back when I’ve had a chance to try more of their menu.
But what makes Carolina Ale House shine is the service. Their servers are well-trained, personable and speedy. They definitely know what they’re doing here and are ready to handle a crowd. Which they are definitely going to get in this prime location. Can’t wait for the better weather so they can roll up their doors and windows to really open up their patio.
So call me a bit surprised because I’m pretty pleased with what Carolina Ale House has brought to my neighborhood. A solid sports bar, beer garden, cool patio type spot that may be a bit too popular but still worthwhile. Nice job Carolina Ale House and looking forward to my next visit!
