FSR April 2023

NEXTGEN 25

Five Iron Golf ST. LOUIS

Turning Point Restaurants EATON, NEW JERSEY

Tapville Social NAPERVILLE, ILLINOIS

UNITS: 2

FOUNDED: 2020

UNITS: 23

FOUNDED: 1998

UNITS: 18

FOUNDED: 2016

The eatertainment sec tor has no shortage of golf-centric concepts, but generally they cater to either fun-seeking amateurs or more sea soned—and serious— players. Five Iron Golf offers the best of both worlds, thanks to state of-the-art 3D simulation technology, an expansive menu whose options vary by location, and perks like towel service and showers, as well as event

This month marks a year since the New Jer sey–based breakfast, lunch, and brunch con cept reached a turning point of its own, inking its first-ever franchising deal in the brand’s two dozen years of operation. Turning Point Restau rants started flexing its growth muscles back in 2019, when private equity firm NewSpring Capital, which owns Duck Donuts, invested in the brand and set up a franchise-based fund. But even as Turn ing Point embarks on a new chapter, its founder, Kirk Ruoff, remains at the helm as CEO.

Originally founded as Red Arrow Tap Room, Tapville Social reports lower prime costs than competitors, thanks to a streamlined system of self-pour taps, table top ordering, and fast throughput. These wide margins have fueled rapid growth, and the tech-forward, pub-grub brand has plans to open 10 brick-and-mortars this year, plus 24 more in 2024. Also on deck are 16 mobile taprooms, whose modern loca tions in shopping cen ters and airports would allow customers to take their beverages off-prem ises within the facility.

quo, thanks to its “Palm Beach–chic” style and tropical-inspired cock tails, tacos, and sliders. In January 2022, founder Ginger Flesher-Sonnier debuted a second loca tion in Florida, far from the D.C. original. Fol lowing the Delray Beach unit’s immediate popu larity, Flesher-Sonnier will continue to seek expan sion opportunities in the Sunshine State and Southeast.

spaces and other games, including ping pong and shuffleboard. And unlike many competitors, Five Iron’s indoor setup helps it move into bustling cit ies like Chicago, Boston, and D.C.

TAPVILLE SOCIAL

THRoW Social WASHINGTON, D.C.

UNITS: 3

FOUNDED: 2017

As one of the few Next Gen Casuals estab lished and led by a woman, THRōW Social offers a fresh take on the eatertainment status

THRoW SOCIAL / FIVE IRON GOLF (2) / TAPVILLE SOCIAL

APRIL 2023 39

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