“Really there are two types of people that go bowling. There are people that really, really love bowling, and then there are the people that are like, ‘Wouldn’t it be hysterical if we went bowling?’ “
—Jim Gaffigan
Imagine what would happen if you tried to do something nerdy, only ironically, but then accidentally had fun?
That could happen at downtown Little Rock’s new Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge, a compact eight-lane bowling alley, bar and surprisingly good restaurant, Dust Bowl. On a chilly Saturday afternoon, our six-person crew descended on Dust Bowl to topple some pins and crush some dinner after.
Dust Bowl shimmers with a 1970s-’80s vibe both in the decor (lots of
With only six non-VIP room lanes, the bowling area is
Bowling alleys are not often known for their fare, but be assured: Dust Bowl is well-past an alley’s usual “snack bar” status. The menu featured 25 beers to choose from, ranging from the humble Pabst Blue Ribbon to a solid selection of local craft beers and regional
When it comes to the food, Dust Bowl isn’t playing around. We tried a selection of delicious-sounding options, but the overwhelming
Other highlights included the Jumbo Onion Burger, made with a patty that’s 50-50 beef and onion; a spicy “hot chicken” sandwich that disappeared almost instantly; a flavorful and satisfying Veggie Gyro; and an extra-spicy bacon cheeseburger that was 10 times
The kitchen is still working out some opening kinks and waiting for several menu items to be available. I’m looking forward to trying the Duck Fat Fries on a return visit, as well as what looks to be a solid selection of milkshake flavors — including the standards, plus offerings like Salted Butterscotch, Caramel Butter Pecan, White Chocolate Raspberry and an Extreme Shake with added caramel, hot chocolate, whipped cream, sprinkles and a house-made cookie. Also opening soon: a small karaoke room big enough for 15 people or so.
One word of caution for those used to normal bowling alley prices: Dust Bowl is a bit dear, comparatively. Keep an eye on your allotted time in the lanes — we’d reserved an hour,
Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge is a welcome and fun addition to the downtown Little Rock scene, both for its sporty activity and its upscale food and
Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge
315 E. Capitol Ave.
501-353-0775
Quick
The VIP room’s two lanes can accommodate 16 to 20 bowlers and
Hours
4 p.m.-2 a.m. weekdays, noon to 2 a.m. Saturday, noon to midnight Sunday.
Other info
Full bar. Credit cards accepted.