New upscale sports concept moves into First Avenue corridor

Diners on Cedar Rapids' First Avenue corridor will soon have a new spot for food and gathering. Victory Social Club is taking shape at 3707 First Ave. SE inside the building formerly occupied by Bandana's Bar-B-Q.

Behind the project is Marion restaurateur John Lillibridge, who designed the approximately 4,000-square-foot venue to seat about 130 patrons. The business is classified as an upscale sports theme concept featuring tableside service.

Planning for the site surfaced publicly in early 2026, when signage for the club appeared in the foyer of the former barbecue restaurant. The venue is also registered with the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance under the restaurant and tavern category.

The project is intended to counter post-pandemic shifts in public dining habits. According to Lillibridge, the goal is to recreate spaces where people can readily interact with friends, family, and new acquaintances.

Although public listings and Economic Alliance records confirm the venue's presence on First Avenue, a precise opening date remains unconfirmed beyond an earlier mid-August target.