You may have noticed it was a bit quiet around Punch Bowl Social for about a week. Turns out that was a fun thing, as it was taking a beat to train staff and debut a new menu in this fun place for games, food and drinks.
The large space is beautifully designed within the 1924, single-story building. Rooms and patios offer activities from darts to corn hole to bowling: both large and “mini” formats. (Mini is what you could imagine being in someone’s large house, not “ mini” as in flicking with your finger — we wondered and had to verify.)
While you play your game of choice, staff is ready to assist you — even if you move around to different spaces, which is pretty impressive — to imbibe and get some sustenance while you have friendly competitions among friends.
The blueberry lemonade fizz
And actually, if you don’t want to drink alcohol, there’s more for you here than water, soda and tea. Try the blueberry-lemonade fizz for a refreshing non-alcoholic cocktail that makes sitting on either of their patios (even in this heat) pleasant. With blueberry syrup, freshly squeezed lemon juice and sparkling water, you’ll want this even if you are craving an alcoholic cocktail.
But on that side, there are also good ones to try, such as the Desert Bloom with mezcal, Luxardo Maraschino, creme de violette and fresh lemon juice. They also have light and crisp drinks for this summer’s temps, such as the strawberry daiquiri and tea sour. Of course, there’s plenty of beer and wine, too, including Deep Ellum’s own Trinity Cider and Deep Ellum Brewing Co.
On the food side, try the knockoff burger with two beef patties, comeback sauce, lettuce, American cheese and pickled onions sandwiched in a sesame seed bun and served with fries. Use a napkin if eating this while bowling.
If you’re playing ping pong, maybe you can manage your playing hand to stay in action while your other hand holds a taco with cocoa-dusted carnitas.
If you’re sitting playing a board game, you have an easier chance to go for a big plate, such as succulent short rib with a creamy Parmesan polenta.
Mini bowling
Punch Bowl is one of those places that’s good anytime it’s open — stop in for a meal and a game before exploring the rest of the neighborhood, or spend a few hours there. Plus there’s plenty of parking in the Stack just across Commerce Street. Or take it easy and ride share, or get a workout in and bike there.
No matter your mode of transportation, take some time to have fun with friends, your loved one or yourself. It’s easy to do at Punch Bowl Social.
Punch Bowl Social is at 2600 Main St. at South Good Latimer Expressway and open 4 p.m. to midnight Monday and Tuesday, 11 a.m. to midnight Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to midnight Sunday.
