If a bowling alley and a martini bar collided, Pin-Up Bowl would be the result.
Located in the hip University City Loop, this retro pop fantasy land is an upscale new hot spot from Joe Edwards, the Pageant Theater and Blueberry Hill owner.
Although it looks compact from the outside, the remodeled carpet store can accommodate well over 200 people. Along with the eight bowling lanes, Pin-Up Bowl has two lounges, a bar and tables scattered around the center of the room.
The inside is lavishly decorated with velvet and old-fashioned pin-up posters, taking its guest for a trip back to the '50s, the glory days of bowling. Six plasma screen televisions constantly play music videos and movies, and the mega sound system blares tunes from the enormous jukebox selection.
Jamie Dryden, 22, University City resident, appreciates the facility. "It's truly a one-of-a-kind place. What a cool idea," she said.
In addition to buying time by the game, bowlers can rent lanes by the hour. Reservations are accepted, and recommended, especially on the weekends. Reservations, only taken by the hour, cost around $30 Monday through Thursday. Expect to pay a little more Friday and Saturday nights, when hourly rates are between $40 and $50. Open play is always granted, however, to four of the eight lanes.
The bar is geared toward martinis. It boasts 10 signature cocktails, as well as several classic favorites and modern cocktails. Joseph Green, 25, a St. Louis resident and Pin-Up Bowl patron, said, "The drink selection is incredible. I've tried every martini at least once and have yet to be disappointed."
Beer drinkers will be saddened to know that Pin-Up features a minimal brew choice: Bud Light and Schlafly Pale Ale on tap and about a dozen bottled beers. A few wines are also available.
Pin-Up Bowl is much more than a bowling alley. The facility also sells food. The kitchen churns out Campbell Soup favorites, along with tasty appetizers such as nachos with cheese, toasted ravioli and chicken tenders. The menu also features a variety of sandwiches, pizza, and even pop-tarts for dessert.
The hybrid club-alley is one of only 30 bars, clubs, and lounges worldwide to receive the Condé Nast Traveler Hot Nights award for 2004.
Pin-Up Bowl is a short walk from the Delmar MetroLink station, just east of Skinker Boulevard. Admission is always free. People under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. After 9 p.m. all guests must be 21 or older.
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