Strikes and Sexy Cocktails at Philly’s Hidden Bowling Alley

Is there any other pastime that has stood up to the wear and tear of history quite like bowling? Well, there’s baseball, but not everyone can play baseball – some of us (and that absolutely does not include this writer) have no hand-eye coordination and would just wind up concussed. While poor hand-eye coordination can keep one from a pro bowling career, you can always just put up the baby bumpers and give that ball a lob. But I digress. Bowling rocks. Old people like it, kids like it, and even young and hip people can dig it. With that latter crowd in mind, I present to you information about the coolest bowling alley in town: Elbow Lane.

At Elbow Lane, bowling is a decadent and dignified affair.

You won’t find Elbow Lane just walking around town; you have to know where to look. And that’s in the basement of Harp & Crown restaurant, adjacent to Rittenhouse Square. The location should tell you that the place is posh. Harp & Crown serves “delicate yet complex” new-American fare in a transformed space on Sansom Street that features 24-foot ceilings, leather seating, and glass chandeliers. Down a dimly-lit hallway in the basement that looks fit for secret Mob meetings is Elbow Lane. The alley has two lanes, each of which can accommodate up to eight players.

Maxim recently profiled Elbow Lane and referred to the space as ‘”a one-stop-shop of masculine awesomeness,” kitted out in the style of a  “dimly lit, old-school mancave—think vintage books, trophies and plush velvet couches.” In this welcoming atmosphere you can order from the bar’s sophisticated drinks menu (Maxim enjoyed the Meridian Peak, “a spicy concoction made of tequila, chili, and blood orange soda”) or order from Harp & Crown’s menu to be served downstairs.

Elbow Lane is available by reservation only, in time slots starting at 6pm and going until 2am. There’s a form on their website where you can request a date and time to play.