Financing

Rory McIlroy invests in a new food-and-mini golf concept

An investment group led by the PGA tour superstar will get 10% ownership of each new Puttery, from Drive Shack, through 2023.
Drive Shack
Photo: Shutterstock

New eatertainment concept Puttery received a $10 million investment from a group led by pro golfer Rory McIlroy, the company announced Monday.

The first locations of Puttery—the latest food-and-golf concept from multi-concept operator Drive Shack—are slated to open this summer in Dallas and Charlotte, N.C., with a total of seven units planned by the end of the year.

McIlroy and his Symphony Ventures team committed to invest at least $10 million over Puttery’s three-year development schedule, in exchange for 10% ownership in each location through 2023, at a price equal to 10% of the total building cost for each unit.

Dallas-based Drive Shack, which is publicly traded, also owns the American Golf and Drive Shack chains.

“Puttery is an immersive, unique and one-of-a-kind entertainment golf experience—it is an exciting and logical partnership for me and my investment group,” McIlroy, a four-time majors champion, said in a statement.

The concept features an “adult-focused and modern spin on the classic game of mini-golf” that’s anchored by multiple bars and lounges with an “upscale food and beverage menu,” according to a news release.

Upcoming locations range from 18,000- to 22,000-square-feet.

Beyond investing, McIlroy has collaborated on the concept’s creation.

“Rory and his team have been incredible partners throughout our entire Puttery evolution,” Drive Shack President and CEO Hana Khouri said in a statement. “Their involvement and viewpoints have helped shape this innovative concept from the start.”

Members help make our journalism possible. Become a Restaurant Business member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.

Multimedia

Exclusive Content

Financing

Inside the Starbucks turnaround

The coffee shop giant has spent the past 18 months returning to its roots as a coffee shop where customers want to stay. Now the company plans to go on offense.

Technology

Why a Dunkin' franchisee is using AI to count its doughnuts

Tennessee-based Bluemont Group was throwing away millions of dollars' worth of unsold doughnuts a year. Enter Do’Cast, an AI camera system that is helping it match supply with demand.

Financing

Chipotle and Taco Bell had very different years in 2025

The Bottom Line: The two Mexican chains have long been among the industry’s most consistent performers. But that changed last year, at least for one of them.

Trending

More from our partners