In need of suggestions
Since I’m new to the area I’m trying to find suitable replacements for the things I miss most about Los Angeles. While I know there is no substitute for the Arclight there are a few things that can bring a wee bit of joy and happiness to an otherwise dreary day. First and foremost I’m looking for a new Pool Hall. I used to play at Hollywood Billiards quite often and am in need of a place that’s not too dodgy, has a good bar, a jukebox that doesn’t resemble a “Journey” and “Chicago” reunion torture tour and well maintained, regulation sized tables. Somewhere in the city is really preferred. Nothing like a few games of pool and a few Guinness after a long day at the office :-) Unfortunately these places tend to double as sports bars which is fine as long as they don’t cover ALL the tables during the Sunday games. Secondly I’m looking for a new pistol range. I’m willing to travel outside of the city for this one. Looking for a place that has a good selection of well maintained rentals. Indoor or outdoor is fine as long as it’s a modern place. It was a Blogging.LA tradition for Sunday brunch and gunplay and I’d like to keep it alive up here in the great white north. And if anyone is interested in getting together for either one of these fine family activities drop a comment and we’ll see what we can get cookin!
Let me know what you find out on the pistol ranges. I’ve been looking for the same thing. Thanks!
I went to the Chabot Gun Club, where I learned to shoot for the very first time. http://www.chabotgunclub.com/
I discovered that it wasn’t really my thing, but I don’t think you can beat the location. It’s up in the hills, a really awesome and beautiful drive to get there, and not too far from Berkeley if you want to come down and get an awesome dinner when you’re through.
It’s all outdoor, and the surrounding areas would probably be great for hiking and picnicking.
Oh lord, how I miss the Arclight. Embarcadero comes close in terms of programming, but oh, the sweet, sweet Arclight. I’m totally tearing up here.
I know. I know. I know. I’ve only been gone a short while and I miss the sweet joy that is the Arclight. And for those of you wondering what the hell we’re talking about… the Arclight is the best movie theater in the world. Period.
Now, now. SF has a ton of amazing indie and art house theaters! And no smog at all as compared to SoCal.
;)
As for pool halls, there’s one in the Rincon Center area that is tolerable, as well as pool tables at Jillian’s in the Metreon, if I recall. But the one I’ve spent the most quality beer drinking time in would have to be the one next to the Pig & Whistle on Geary near Masonic.
Oh, Erika! If only it were merely about the art.
Oh no. Arclight is about reserved seats you can purchase online, no commercials, the best popcorn in the world and precious, precious member points. Plus you can bring fancy cocktails into the theater.
I think we should petition for a branch in SF.
In the meantime, you’ve got a point about the neighborhood theaters. I hear there was some kind of shake-up regarding The Castro’s management. I don’t know enough about the theater’s histoire, but a friend was telling me about it. Hey! How about I comment on YOUR post?
Of course I can’t remember the name of a place, but there’s a great pool hall in Soma, around 6th and Bryant, 6th and Folsom? Dozens of regulation tables, sports on TV, booze and food. Not sure about the music, but it’s definitely not a bar.
the pool hall in rincon doesn’t exist anymore.
jackson arms is pretty good for shooting. i think it is the closest to sf, in south sf. there aren’t any public shooting ranges in the city.
http://www.jacksonarms.com
Sorry, the only room in northern California is California Billiard Club in Mt. View 881 E. El Camino Real. Take 101 south to 85 look for El Camino exit to the east. Players that are featured in pool mags stop in to hit ’em around. Chet runs a clean room.
http://www.PoolHall.com