The best bars & nightlife in Johnston County

12 bars & nightlife we’ve checked and stand behind — with the story on each one. Not a ranking; a record.

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Nightlife · 12 places · showing the latest additions first

Quantum Toad

Nightlife

Slip into Quantum Toad, a classy lounge in historic downtown Selma, for artful cocktails, curated spirits, and a chill speakeasy vibe that…

116 S Raiford St (Selma)

Slip into Quantum Toad, a classy lounge in historic downtown Selma, for artful cocktails, curated spirits, and a chill speakeasy vibe that feels like your friend’s fancy living room. Perfect for this week’s low-key date night or post-errand unwinding, with beer, wine, and food that reward lingering.

From the Johnston County newsletter, September 18, 2026

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Sneak out to Gregory Vineyards this week for award-winning NC wines made from 20-plus acres of grapes on a 140-acre family farm, then pair…

275 Bowling Spring Dr #9052 (Angier)

Sneak out to Gregory Vineyards this week for award-winning NC wines made from 20-plus acres of grapes on a 140-acre family farm, then pair a tasting with a plate from Lane’s Seafood and Steak House. Seasonal special editions keep things interesting, and the vibe hits that relaxed, just-outside-town sweet spot.

From the Johnston County newsletter, September 14, 2026

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Slip into The Roaring Tap Co. this week for an intimate, speakeasy-style escape with refined craft cocktails, thoughtfully curated wines,…

5533 Veterans Pkwy A10 (Garner)

Slip into The Roaring Tap Co. this week for an intimate, speakeasy-style escape with refined craft cocktails, thoughtfully curated wines, and true craft beer cred.

From the Johnston County newsletter, September 3, 2026

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North Carolina’s largest muscadine vineyard is basically in your backyard, and Hinnant Farms Vineyard & Winery keeps things fun with dry…

826 Pine Level Micro Rd (Pine Level)

North Carolina’s largest muscadine vineyard is basically in your backyard, and Hinnant Farms Vineyard & Winery keeps things fun with dry whites, reds, and classic sweet scuppernong in their award-winning bottles, plus a steady lineup of Dine in the Vines, live music, Music Bingo, and Yoga & Wine. Go make a memory.

From the Johnston County newsletter, September 9, 2026

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Origin Thai Bar & Cuisine is bringing serious flavor to Smithfield, with a seasoned female chef blending classic Thai recipes and creative…

519 Outlet Center Dr (Smithfield)

Origin Thai Bar & Cuisine is bringing serious flavor to Smithfield, with a seasoned female chef blending classic Thai recipes and creative twists that actually work. When you want bold, bright, and downright addictive, this is your midweek pick... and yes, you can order online.

From the Johnston County newsletter, August 14, 2026

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LaDiDa Wine Shop nails the cozy night out with wines by the glass or flight, a legit bottle shop selection, craft beer, and remixed…

459 E Main St (Clayton)

LaDiDa Wine Shop nails the cozy night out with wines by the glass or flight, a legit bottle shop selection, craft beer, and remixed cocktails. Grab a cheese or charcuterie board, then hang for a tasting or live music and call it a week well done.

From the Johnston County newsletter, August 20, 2026

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MoonRunners Saloon is a laid-back bar & grill locals keep in the rotation, with satisfying burgers and bar bites, a solid cocktail and beer…

21 Technology Dr (Garner) · ✓ checked Aug 27

MoonRunners Saloon is a laid-back bar & grill locals keep in the rotation, with satisfying burgers and bar bites, a solid cocktail and beer lineup, and a comfortable, local crowd. Easy choice when you want comfort, conversation, and something tasty without overthinking it.

From the Johnston County newsletter, September 2, 2026

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Whether you're in the mood for the coldest beer around or a casual glass of wine, Little Brown Jug is a Smithfield legend with…

101 W Market St (Smithfield)

Whether you're in the mood for the coldest beer around or a casual glass of wine, Little Brown Jug is a Smithfield legend with Prohibition-era backroom lore, neighborhood live tunes, and lots of Neuse River energy. Slide in for simple good times and stories that pour as easy as the pints.

From the Johnston County newsletter, August 28, 2026

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Revival 1869

Nightlife

Revival 1869 nails the sweet spot where fresh, inventive cocktails meet a wall of 300+ whiskies, then adds live jazz that actually swings.…

222 E Main St (Clayton)

Revival 1869 nails the sweet spot where fresh, inventive cocktails meet a wall of 300+ whiskies, then adds live jazz that actually swings. Grab a world-class charcuterie board, settle in with friends, and turn this week into a little celebration.

From the Johnston County newsletter, August 25, 2026

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Mulligans Arcade & Tavern is your go-to for hurling axes, dialing in your swing on a full-on golf simulator, and burning through the arcade…

176 Bratton Dr (Garner)

Mulligans Arcade & Tavern is your go-to for hurling axes, dialing in your swing on a full-on golf simulator, and burning through the arcade before regrouping over legit pub comfort food and cold drinks. Rally friends or book a party and make some brag-worthy highlights this week.

From the Johnston County newsletter, August 22, 2026

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Raleigh Brewing JoCo Brewery & Kitchen pours the good stuff and feeds you right, with flatbread pizza, Bavarian pretzels, nachos and more…

3174 US-70 (Smithfield)

Raleigh Brewing JoCo Brewery & Kitchen pours the good stuff and feeds you right, with flatbread pizza, Bavarian pretzels, nachos and more that actually pair with your pint or cocktail. Swing by for weekly happenings like bingo, line dancing, karaoke, even a first Friday Beer, Bourbon & Cigar Night.

From the Johnston County newsletter, September 19, 2026

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First Street Tavern keeps the week lively with live music, a full bar and a variety of domestic and craft beer. It’s a cozy Clayton staple…

115 East First Street (Clayton)

First Street Tavern keeps the week lively with live music, a full bar and a variety of domestic and craft beer. It’s a cozy Clayton staple for grabbing flavorful drinks, easy eats and even booking your next get-together... and yes, National Rum Day is today.

From the Johnston County newsletter, August 19, 2026

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