Earlier this year, we shared some of the most anticipated business openings our city had slotted. And while many things have been put on hold or postponed indefinitely, we’re happy to say the majority of businesses on that list still will still open — or have already — in 2020.

Say hello to Killjoy, the most recent venture from two of Raleigh’s top leaders in the beverage industry, Zack Thomas and Joshua Gagne + G Patel, founder of local restaurant group Eschelon Experiences.

We had the opportunity to sit down with Zack and Josh and chat about their vision. Here’s what you need to know (and then, go).

Killjoy | 📍116 N. West Street | ⏰ Wednesday-Saturday, 5 p.m. to midnight

Killjoy bar | Photo courtesy of Raleighwood Media

🍸The menu features a selection of signature drinks, including several that are alcohol-free. They will eventually offer 300+ custom cocktails. TryThis: Skeleton Key, Paddle Flower, and Gordon’s Chip.

🍽️ Courtesy of Chef Jake Wood, the food offerings include a range of bar snacks and small bites, including: a meat and cheese board, pimento spread with fried saltines, grilled cauliflower hummus + candied nuts.

🔑It’s worth noting that the restaurant is currently operating at a strict 50% capacity for seating under Phase Two restrictions, and masks are required for admittance. When you first arrive, a smart sensor will check that your face is covered and confirm a normal body temperature by scanning your wrist. Masks may be removed while you are seated at your table.

📸In all honesty, the entire space is a photo op, with sleek velvet furniture, mod chairs, gold accents, and bright colors at every turn. Not to be missed, though, are the flower wall in the foyer + a curtained-off mirror room and a geographic mural hand painted by Zack and Josh themselves during quarantine.

🍾When group gatherings are a thing again, the private room offers a great option (plus serious old-school lounge vibes) for everything from birthdays to business meetings.

🌿The large covered patio provides extra dining space and is outfitted with plant designs from local vendor Logan’s Garden Shop.

🥃 Bonus: The Heartbreaker’s Club aims to emulate bygone social clubs to help connect members for social engagements and networking. Cost is $250 annually and includes perks such as a signature lapel pin, one private event booking, access to reserved tables, private events + a complimentary bottle of champagne on your birthday.

Want more content? Visit our Instagram page for a #FirstLook at all Killjoy has to offer.

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