Dinner and a movie is a classic NYC first date, but what about that other first-date favorite: a trip to the bowling alley? Although they’re harder to find in Manhattan than a movie theater, bowling lanes are a popular New York hangout, especially in Brooklyn where you’ll often find the best alleys and bigger bars. Try one of these spots when you’re feeling like knocking out a few strikes (and knocking back a few beers):
Bowlmor
Bowlmor is the Manhattan bowling-lover’s staple. Lots of lanes, no-nonsense décor, big portions of bar food and a returning crowd of regulars that takes its game seriously. Because of the prime location in the heart of Union Square, games can get pricey, so consider heading over on Monday nights after 10pm, when shoe rental and unlimited bowling is $24. Plus, you can get drink service right to your lane.
110 University Pl, Manhattan
212-255-8188; bowlmor.com
Maple Lanes
If you’re looking for a quick game of ninepins on a budget, this Brooklyn outpost is the place to be. The 48 lanes allow for big parties and shorter lines, the large but simple bar is serviceable, and if there isn’t a particularly alluring atmosphere – who cares? T special prices can’t be beat: games are only 99 cents on weekdays from 3 to 6pm.
1570 60th St, Brooklyn
718-331-9000; bowlmaple.com
Brooklyn Bowl
Brooklyn Bowl has it all: it’s a performance space, restaurant, bar, club and bowling alley all in one. The Bowl hosts shows every night of the week with touring artists and guest DJs, but if you’re not digging the music, you can always grab a pair of bowling shoes and throw some strikes. Make sure you come hungry, since NYC’s famed Blue Ribbon restaurants created a special menu for the venue, and you can dig in to your high-class meal while seated on comfy leather sofas right next to the lanes.
61 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn
718-963-3369; brooklynbowl.com
300 New York
If you’ve ever wanted your bowling experience to be more like a lounge, with glittery bowling balls, disco lighting and a multitude of plasma screen TVs playing music videos for the bumping pop soundtrack, bring your bowling shoes over to 300 New York. The giant alley located within Chelsea Piers caters to the younger, fun-loving crowd, complete with arcade at the front.
Chelsea Piers, 23rd St at the West Side Highway, Manhattan
212-835-2695, 3hundred.com
The Gutter
This relatively new addition to the New York bowling scene is brought to by the same people behind the popular Brooklyn hotspot Barcade (a cross between a classic arcade and, of course, a bar). Now they’ve worked their magic on the bowling alley, transforming the old-school lanes into a hipster bar hangout. You’ll enjoy the throwback vibe and the number of beers on tap, but remember: only 21-and-over bowlers are allowed to play here.
200 North 14th St, Brooklyn
718-387-3585; thegutterbrooklyn.com
or the little lane in Red Hook
ReplyDeleteAmazing! The music really makes it.
ReplyDelete