Led by Chef Michael Bongiorno, the highly anticipated restaurant brings stylish dining, an authentic aperitivo hour, and curated wines to Midtown on Friday, Aug. 14.
RALEIGH, NC – Chef Michael Bongiorno is officially bringing a taste of the Italian lifestyle to Midtown Raleigh. Building on the success of Bongiorno & Son—the popular Italian deli and market founded in Lafayette Village in 2020—Chef Bongiorno will celebrate the grand opening of his newest concept, Pranzo, on Friday, Aug. 14. Located on the ground floor of 1000 Social, the flagship 12-story office tower at The Exchange Raleigh, Pranzo marks a major milestone in Bongiorno’s local footprint following the opening of his outpost at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU).
Pranzo offers a traditional yet stylish dining experience designed around relaxed socializing, ingredient-driven dishes, and premium imported Italian goods. While the venue includes a select market for specialty items, the focus is a vibrant, casual dining atmosphere that transitions seamlessly from lunch into evening gatherings.
Central to the Pranzo experience is the authentic Italian tradition of aperitivo—a pre-dinner ritual featuring light bites and drinks crafted to awaken the appetite and savor the moment. Complementing the menu is a highly unique, hand-picked wine program prioritizing small vineyards, organic producers, and women-owned wineries, featuring labels not found elsewhere in the region.
“Pranzo is about embracing the rhythm of Italian life—gathering over exceptional ingredients, discovering unexpected wines, and taking time to unwind,” says Chef Michael Bongiorno. “Whether dropping in for lunch, meeting colleagues for an aperitivo after work, or joining us for dinner, we want our guests to feel connected through great food and genuine hospitality.”
“We could not be more excited to see Chef Bongiorno open the doors to Pranzo at 1000 Social,” says Connor Saieed, who manages retail leasing at Dewitt Carolinas alongside his brother, Tommy Saieed. “Dewitt is a family business, so Chef Bongiorno’s deep respect for tradition, combined with his vision for exceptional, community-focused culinary experiences, makes him a perfect fit for The Exchange. Pranzo is going to be an incredible gathering space for our office tenants, residents, and the broader Raleigh community.”
While the complete menu will be revealed closer to launch, featured highlights include:
- Barolo Braised Short Rib with Soft Parmigiana Reggiano Polenta
- Smoked Burrata with Sweet & Sour Red Onions, Baked Tomatoes, Arugula, and First Press Olive Oil
- Spicy Prawns paired with Pesto Marinated Zucchini, Balsamic, Radicchio, and Saffron Mayonnaise
- Beef Carpaccio with Roasted Red Peppers, Parmigiana Reggiano, Capers, and Black Pepper Dressing
Elm Partners represented Bongiorno & Son, and Dewitt Carolinas represented 1000 Social in this transaction. The Exchange Raleigh continues to shape the future of Midtown with its curated blend of innovative office spaces, vibrant retail, and local culinary talent.
Pranzo Hours & Information
Grand Opening: Friday, Aug. 14
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. | Friday – Saturday: 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Location: 1000 Social at The Exchange Raleigh
Website: pranzoraleigh.com
Facebook: Pranzo Italiano
Instagram: pranzo_raleigh
