The Architect Bar and Social House

There is literally nothing interesting or exciting about this bar/club. Before coming here, I was told that the music was great and that the drinks were well-priced. That, however, was certainly not the case.

The music: While the flow of the tunes does depend on the DJ, the overall selection has to pass muster with the club and they really fail on this one. It was an awkward mixture of mediocre 90s songs that the majority of the patrons probably don't remember and very lazy remixes of modern Top 40. The DJ would cluster genres together in an attempt to lure more people in the doors only to switch it just a few minutes later. Moving from bad hip-hop to Joan Jett and then over to Pitbull just isn't fun nor is it good DJ-ing.

The drinks: water. The disinterested bartenders might be fast, but that's easy when they are more focused on mixing ice than alcohol.

The decor: Nothing to get excited about, either. It's essentially an open floor-plan loft apartment with a bar in it.

They got two stars because they handle the line well and allowed people to pop out briefly to cool down without making them get back in line. If you're in your early twenties and have very little club experience, you will probably like this place. Otherwise, go elsewhere.

I organized a VIP section here (first time ever) for a group of friends and coworkers.  The VIP experience exceeded all of my expectations.  Nick the office manager was quick to reply to my emails and questions (of which I had quite a few).

Our group arrived around 10pm and we had a great time mingling and drinking while the place was still relatively quiet.  By midnight/1am everyone agreed that reserving the VIP was worth it because we had so much space to spread out and dance.

Our servers were attentive, polite, funny and very accommodating.  I can't praise them highly enough!  They worked very hard and did a great job.  Our only snag was when we first arrived -- I had requested a certain brand of vodka but they were out.  They recommended a replacement and from there the whole evening went without a hitch.

If you are celebrating a special event (it was our good-bye party since we were moving away from Raleigh, unfortunately) definitely consider going the VIP route.  It was not as much of a hassle, nor as expensive, as I expected, and the benefits were totally worth it.

I've made a few visits to the The Architect, and my experiences have been pretty good. You'll find it in the ever growing DTR area, so it's a good place to head while exploring and trying new places. It stays true to its extended proper name, it's a bar and a social house.

I like a good place where you can just have a seat at the bar, order a good whiskey or bourbon and chill out. You will find that here...if you come early like I usually do. I hear it gets pretty busy as the night progresses, good for business. Clay and the crew there have always been great with good service, positive attitudes, and even on the spot with recommendations. Beyond having a good whiskey or bourbon, I have sampled their speciality drink list as well. I like the Architect Whiskey Sour (blackberry whiskey, who knew?), and the Southern Sour both and would say give them a try. The bar itself is open and has plenty of room, that is before the crowds come in of course. Simple but classic in design, just what a good bar hangout should be. I like the place.

Bottom line: Nice bar, good drinks, attentive and helpful staff, and a good place to hangout for a drink or two. I will continue to visit when I am in the DTR area.