Whoever thinks bowling alleys are pass has never stepped foot into National on 10th’s lower level space. Between the bright yellow chairs, white orb lighting fixtures and an accent wall showcasing bowling balls in almost every fluorescent colour imaginable, it goes without saying that National Bowl is aiming for a funhouse sort of feeling when it comes to the decor. The love-it-or-hate-it art pice de rsistance is undoubtedly the giant clown face mounted on the south wall.
That being said, draught beer (there are 24 on tap) or one of the tequila-centric cocktails will have your clown fears melting away in no time. If you and your friends have worked up an appetite after a few rounds, opt for some of Bowl’s taqueria-style menu. The Mexi fries (topped with spicy chorizo) or the Tijuana Dog wrapped in salty bacon, topped with a lime aioli, beans and pimento cheese sauce, are the perfect finger foods to chow down on between strikes. And it wouldn’t be true taqueria inspiration without a great selection of tacos, would it? Rest assured, braised beef, pulled pork and battered cod are available, served in a soft shell for a few dollars apiece.
As for the bowling. There are eight lanes that can accommodate up to eight people each. Families and players under 18 can play until 4 p.m. There is even bumpers, smaller balls and a kids party menu. You can make reservations outside of peak hours, which are Friday and Saturday night. Prices per hour range from $40 to $60. At lunch (Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) you can pair a game of bowling with the special that includes thee tacos and a side for $20. If evening bowling is more your style, drop by on Friday and Saturday when there are DJs spinning.