Serra Calvert
Easy 5 stars. Circa is a nice looking space with a really solid vibe, but the drinks are what sell me. Every cocktail I order is always perfectly crafted and balanced. The bartender Gabe’s service and professionalism is always on point. This man makes the best margaritas and paper planes that I’ve ever had in my entire life. Definitely one of my go to spots in Raleigh.
… moreKat Fox
Circa is my favorite bar in Raleigh; the service is always incredible and I love the community of regulars there dearly. Also love that every time Gabe (ginger bartender) sees me walk in he automatically makes my go to drink for me. Really goes to show how attentive and kind the staff is!
… moreAddison Jackson
best bar in raleigh!!!
Gabe the bartender is an angel on earth and was always there with a PBR and a chat, no matter if there were 20 or 200 people in the bar.
beautiful vintage feel with a real wood bar and plenty of pool tables, but the real heart of circa is the friends we made along the way :).
shout out ms.nicole, gin and tonics, One Person At A Time signs in the bathroom, and a place that’s so much more than the sum of its parts <3
… moreGamera The Destroyer
This place is my favorite bar in the entire world and Gabe treats me like his PBR princess. Every bartender is amazing but particularly Gab and Ms. Nicole have my heart.
Honest question:
One cold PBR pint from Gabe or end world hunger?
Answer:
… brother…. Im gonna need a coaster
… moreDavid Lapre
Gabriel at Circa 1888 is hands-down one of the best bartenders I’ve ever had the pleasure of sitting with. His bar skills are elite—every drink is perfectly balanced, creative, and made with real intention. You can tell he genuinely knows his craft, whether he’s making a classic cocktail or recommending something new based on your taste.
What really sets Gabriel apart, though, is his service and personality. He’s welcoming, attentive, and has that rare ability to make everyone at the bar feel like a regular. The energy he brings elevates the entire experience—professional, friendly, and effortlessly cool.
If you’re at Circa 1888, do yourself a favor and grab a seat at Gabriel’s bar. He’s a huge reason this place stands out. I’ll absolutely be back because of him.
… moreKatherine Thompson
Circa is hands down my favorite Raleigh bar. Feels like our home away from home every time my friends and I go. Great for going with friends or solo chilling. Extra huge shoutout to Gabe, who is one of the friendliest bartenders around. Always a great time when he’s working. Highly recommend
… moreLucy Seal
I love Circa!! Great drinks at a great price. The outside area is perfect for larger groups & is relatively quiet if you go early. The bartenders are also wonderful – I chose to come here on my birthday recently and Gabe made me a fantastic drink, he definitely goes above and beyond every time I’m there and is such a pleasure to be around 🙂
… morekaylee mulligan
Circa is a Raleigh staple, especially to us industry people! The atmosphere is calm with plenty of places to sit and enjoy a nice conversation- whether it’s with old friends, or with the ones you’ll make while you’re there! But all the locals know the reason you go to Circa is for the outstanding service. They are home to one of the kindest people in the city, who happens to also be an extremely knowledgeable and talented bartender, Gab! You are lucky if he’s the one taking care of you during your experience! You’ll be treated respectfully while sipping on a delicious drink. 5 stars! (:
… moreLeopoldo Romero JR
Circa is the place to go if you want a fun night out with a chill atmosphere and the tunes always hit. All the bartenders are amazing at what they do. Especially Gabe… He really knows how to make circa feel welcoming and always has a very positive attitude towards everyone and everything. And best of all the prices are not bad at all.
… moreGregory Green
Always a pleasant atmosphere and great drinks. It can be pretty busy on the weekends, but it’s still one of our favorite places to grab a drink and play some pool without feeling like a dingy pool hall. Gabe is usually our bartender and does an amazing job!!
P.S. Tip your wait staff
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