The Crunkleton cocktail bar will open in Smoky Hollow in Raleigh in December

The Crunkleton, an esteemed Chapel Hill cocktail bar that successfully expanded to Charlotte , will open a Raleigh location by December, its owner 1957 Hospitality Group tells Axios.

Why it matters: Founded by Gary Crunkleton in 2008, the dimly lit Chapel Hill location has become an icon of Franklin Street due to its artfully crafted cocktails, rustic atmosphere (note the moose head on the wall) and excellent service.

• 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. Johnston 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."