I think that by far this is one of the best places to hang out at the NC Music Factory! I've been coming to VBGB since it opened off and on. I've never had a bad experience. Everything this places advertises on it delivers. The bar is nice open and clean and the staff is warm and inviting even in times of high volume rushes. When you walk in you'll notice that this place doesn't look like you typical gastropub but has a nice laid back feel with long tables and a bar with an ice shelf.
There is a large patio out back that is great for relaxing underneath this huge neon sign which adds to the ambiance of the patio. The last time I was there, the patio boasted a large chess/checker set.
There is a side room that an organization I belong to rented out that was very nice and private and at relatively low cost. It also has its own private outdoor patio. The menu selection here is great! The are food specials here almost every day. The fare here is a different kind of bar fodder with everything from burgers to edamame. This place is worth the try if you are looking for a young and hip spot for a rising young professional that needs a place to blow off some steam.