by Anna G. on 300 is, like, the Spiro's of bowling alleys. The cavernous, disco-lit setting, flashing neon and gigantic video screens pumping out bump n' grind videos offer more douche-bag than drive. And at night, there's even a cover charge -- my bowling associate and I had to wear *two* wristbands - one to bowl and one to drink. There are some positives here. When you enter, you pick your own ball - by both hole size and weight, and the balls are in better condition than other bowling alleys in town. Additionally, the shoes are not yet carrying years of built-up foot sweat. Servers come to each lane and there are extensive - yet pricey ($2.50 per soda?) - bar food options and mixed drinks. It was certainly convenient, but expensive because it introduces paying a tip on the service. I would rather save a few bucks by walking to the bar. We realized that despite the promise of "dollar night" (Thursday), with the cover ($5) and other charges, that it cost more overall than its less flashy counterparts. The video screens were lowered so far over some of the lanes what we had to request a change, and tried to move to one as far away from the chaos as we could - it was incredibly distracting. What I did like - and only because it made me bowl a lot better than usual - were that the lanes were marked with straight, dashed lines at even intervals - a sort of bowling scope, if you will. This made aiming for the pins easier. Ultimately, the night club atmosphere became tiresome and we began to realize we might be the oldest people in the entire club...I mean bowling alley. The need for wristbands became increasingly apparent. I left with mixed feelings - I bowled well, but longed for the days when 300 was once the humble Showplace Lanes.
by Retta Donkin on Alarm goes off at 5:30 AM on a Sunday, what do you do? Hit the snooze and roll over? Nah Grumble because you gotta work on a Sunday? Nope It's time to wake up because it's party time! In most cases, I would of "end up" here but I actually "began here." Fortunately I knew one of the dj's so cover wasn't an issue. Come in and the place was pretty crackin' (in both terms if you know what I mean). Took back a few drinks and started to dance. The gay to straight ratio wasn't too bad probably because it was already morning time. And I love the fact that there's a patio, there's lot of venues in SF which seem to not have a patio. You can chill, smoke and take in the dope beats. Word of advice, bring your stunna shades, sober or not, bring em and let's hope EVERYONE can adhere to that rule because some of these folks are a bit scary to look at first thing in the morning =P
