Acclaimed cocktail bar The Crunkleton aims for December opening in Raleigh

• After an expansion to Charlotte in 2019, the Crunkleton quickly became one of the most popular bars there.

Driving the news: Construction recently started on its Raleigh spot, located in Kane Realty's Smoky Hollow development in Glenwood South.

• On a recent Axios visit, a crew of workers could be seen inside the space at 403 W. Johnson St. and renderings were posted in the window.
• The bar originally announced its Raleigh location in 2022.

What to expect: The Crunkleton first gained attention for its bourbon-forward menu that jumps from pre-Prohibition classics to more modern inventions by Crunkleton himself and other bartenders on staff.

• It also rewards spirits nerds, with an extensive collection of rare and antique liquors.
• Like the Charlotte location, the Raleigh Crunkleton will serve dinner.

What they're saying: "We couldn't be more excited to start construction on The Crunkleton at Smoky Hollow," Blake Thompson of 1957 Hospitality Group said in a statement.

• "We hope to open in December and introduce Raleigh to the high standards and exceptional experience The Crunkleton and 1957 Hospitality provides."