Pogo to replace Roly Poly at Marbles this summer

In the last couple of years, we have seen some big upgrades to the restaurants at local museums and Pullen Park. The trend continues this year.

Pogo, described as a creative and vibrant lunch and dinner destination, will open this summer at the IMAX theater at Marbles Kids Museum. It replaces Roly Poly, which closed on Feb. 28. (According to Marbles' website, Roly Poly is looking to reopen nearby).

Tom Meyer, president of Farmer's Table Restaurant Group and the guy behind The Q-Shack in Raleigh's North Hill's, Sprout Cafe at the Museum of Life and Science in Durham and Green's restaurant at UNC Hospital, will operate the new restaurant.

Sprout at the Museum of Life and Science was one of several new restaurants to open at kid-friendly destinations. We've also seen Pharoah's at the N.C. Museum of History, the Daily Planet Cafe at the N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences' new Nature Research Center and Pullen Place at Pullen Park.

While all offer standard fare such as hamburgers or hot dogs, you'll also find healthier options and tasty menu items that appeal to parents too. It's been a welcome change.

According to Marbles, the current space that Roly Poly vacated will be transformed into a "comfortable, contemporary" spot for lunch and dinner.

A press release says that Meyer is "committed to creating chef-inspired dishes at Pogo using locally-sourced produce and proteins."

“We are excited about the fresh and fun experience Pogo will offer our guests,” said Sally Edwards, president of Marbles Kids Museum, in the release. “For some time, we’ve envisioned a lively restaurant space that transitions from day to night, serving Marbles and downtown Raleigh. Pogo will achieve that vision with fun, friendly service and excellent food at an affordable price, inviting guests to enjoy a delicious meal where they live, work and, of course, play.”

Marbles' website has a page where you can sign up for e-news about the restaurant. Can't wait to check Pogo out!