Jaguar Bolera brings "Top Chef-" led menu to Raleigh Iron Works
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Three of eight duckpin bowling lanes inside Jaguar Bolera. Photo: Zachery Eanes/Axios
Jaguar Bolera, a restaurant featuring duckpin bowling, a menu curated by a "Top Chef" contestant and an extensive bar list, will open in the Raleigh Iron Works development this weekend, its operator Robert Thompson says.
Why it matters: Jaguar Bolera is a new business from Thompson, a national restaurant entrepreneur who popularized the idea of "eatertainment" with his previous venture Punch Bowl Social. Raleigh will be Jaguar's first location, with another planned in Atlanta.
- It is also one of the largest tenants to open in the new $150 million Raleigh Iron Works project, taking up more than 20,000 square feet, and will eventually expand to include pickleball.
What to expect: Jaguar Bolera is built around socializing, with lots of seating and standing areas and brightly decorated furniture and walls, featuring a kaleidoscope of different wallpapers.
- There are eight duckpin bowling lanes throughout the space as well as darts, foosball tables and a karaoke room.
- Drinks are served from a self-pouring wall, with specially designed bracelets letting patrons pour their own cocktails, wine and beers.
What they're saying: What Thompson hopes sets Jaguar Bolera apart from other venues that highlight entertainment is a menu that is worth the visit alone.
The food program is curated by Manny Barella, a contestant on the current season of "Top Chef" and a James Beard Award nominee.
- The menu is heavy on Southern and Mexican influences, especially from Barella's native Monterrey.
- Highlights include brisket tacos, birria taquitos, a carnitas torta that was popular among kitchen staff and, for dessert, a Carlota de Limón, a lime-infused cake popular in Mexico.
What's next: Jaguar Bolera is hosting a ticketed event to celebrate its opening on Saturday, which will include dishes by Barella, drinks and unlimited games.
- It opens fully to the public on Sunday.
Location: 2221 Iron Works Dr., Suite 90, Raleigh
