Carmen Macri
Words by Carmen Macri
The time has finally come! The re-opening of Beach Bowl is right around the corner, with a soft-open scheduled for June 17, and here is what we have to look forward to.
This Jacksonville staple, around for over 60 years, was due for some significant renovations and a nice facelift. Fortunately, the Jacksonville Beach Board of Adjustment approved the $7.5 million restoration plans in February 2021. These plans included a 6,200-square-foot addition featuring a two-story restaurant and a rooftop bar — what more could Jax Beach ask for? Well, a lot more.
I spoke with marketing manager Allison Murphy about what to expect with the rebranding of Beach Bowl — and we are in for a treat.
“Everything is completely brand new — the only thing left over from the original Beach Bowl is the “Bowl” from the sign,” Murphy explained. “Features include the rooftop bar, an arcade, multiple bars, VIP lanes, event spaces and more”
If you follow their Instagram account, you’ve seen a few sneak peeks — like the bowling lanes being named after the iconic Jacksonville Beach avenues or the very, very updated arcade with games suited for all ages.
“We were really just focused on creating a place at the Beaches for people of all ages to come and have a good time, great food and even better customer service,” Murphy said.
If the rooftop bar, arcade and brand-new bowling lanes don’t catch your eye, perhaps the daily all-day specials will—like half-off drinks on Wednesdays. And the deals aren’t just for food and drinks; there are also bowling and arcade specials for those looking for some wholesome fun. (Though, I’ll definitely be there every Wednesday.) While their focus is to make Beach Bowl a bit more upscale, they still offer family-friendly prices.
“We wanted the new Beach Bowl to be a little bit more upscale than the original, and we’re focused on being the spot for all things entertainment, not just a bowling alley. We have family-friendly pricing with a lot of combo deals on bowling, arcade cards, drinks, food,and more,” Murphy explained. “With our opening, we’re really prioritizing excellent service, excellent food and cocktails and excellent bowling, all while keeping family entertainment at the forefront. There will be some specials and promotions, you’ll have to come in to check them out.”
The only downside? They won’t be hosting any leagues for now, which puts a damper on my summer plans, but that’s OK. They’re focusing on family entertainment to ensure the lanes are available for everyone to enjoy, but that could change.
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