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Eatertainment is making its way back to Raleigh Iron Works thanks to Punch Bowl Social. Originally founded in Denver, the brand—now with 11 locations across the country—is anticipated to open its first NC outpost in Q1 2027 in the former Jaguar Bolera spot, which closed in the spring.
“We have no current or prior relationship [with Jaguar Bolera],” asserts Punch Bowl Social CEO Robert Cornog. “The only overlap is the same space.”
Much of that interior will stay more or less the same—but the biggest change, says Cornog, is the addition of an expansive standalone bar, which will serve as the foundation for a service-based model. Read: No more heading to the counter to request a snack or flagging someone down to pour a bev from the “self-pour” wall.
Instead, Punch Bowl will have servers and bartenders, “allowing us to deliver the hospitality that patrons of Punch Bowl Social have come to expect,” emphasizes Cornog. “There will still be games, there will still be fun, there will still be bowling—there will be both more games and more variety of games.”
Read: The duckpin bowling lanes and karaoke room will stay—with the addition of arcade games and a more enhanced game-ified darts experience (read traditional darts + a variety of other games). “It’s all supposed to be fun,” says Cornog.
When hunger strikes, Punch Bowl Raleigh will deliver the same robust menu as the other locations. Think a chicken and waffles platter to feed a crowd and shareables ranging bang bang shrimp, mozz sticks, elote dip, wings and charcuterie for easy grazing—even salads, burgers, tacos and protein-heavy mains.
“We’re not shooting for Michelin stars—that’s not where we’re at,” says Cornog. “But we do deliver high-end quality food and beverage products. We want our F&B offerings to support the way our guests engage with the building.”
On the bev side, signature punches are perfect for keeping the party going, while craft and classic cocktails, spiked dirty sodas, wine, beer, and NA ops offer enough choice for everyone. And during holidays and seasonal events, expect a smattering of special limited-edition ’tails.
Besides the former Jaguar Bolera space being a good fit for all Punch Bowl Social has in store, Cornog stresses Raleigh Iron Works—and Raleigh as a whole—is a great fit. “The audience that seeks out Punch Bowl Social is in Raleigh and goes to Raleigh Iron Works,” he adds. “RIW has that great gravity associated with things to do—and there’s further development underway.”
And trust—Punch Bowl Social will pack its own, well, punch of activities, sips and snacks come early next year.
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