The area's most popular comedy club will have a different look when the doors reopen and belly laughs return.
Funny Bone Toledo converted the restaurant side of the establishment to Draftcade, a franchise that combines a typical bar with vintage arcade games. The dining side of the business was occupied by Fat Fish Blue for the last 12 years.
Manager Nadia Castilleja said it was time for a change.
"I think it's a totally different vibe coming up to the restaurant," Ms. Castilleja said. "It will be fun for people going to the comedy club and they'll have games to play if they're going to the later show.It took off well in Kansas City, so we decided to do it here in Toledo and give it a try."
Draftcade will feature 40 draft beers on tap — including several local craft brews — and a food menu including pizza, half chickens, fried chicken, sandwiches, and salads. Food options will be available in the restaurant and comedy club.
About 60 classic arcade games were brought in and will be available for play. Game bands are $4 Monday through Wednesday, and $7 Thursday through Sunday. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
Ms. Castilleja is hoping to create a unique atmosphere for all ages.
"I'm hoping it brings out a whole different diverse crowd with the younger generation coming out to enjoy the craft beer and games," she said. "I think it's going to be a fun place for families to come during the day. I think it would be a fun place to come relax after a long day at the office. People can play video games and bring back some of their childhood memories."
There is also a party area for up to 70 people. The Hilton Garden Inn and Home2 across the street are home to many weddings and rehearsals, and Ms. Castilleja is hoping to attract some of that clientele.
Live DJs will play music on the weekends, and the comedy club will eventually resume its usual Thursday through Sunday schedule when it's safe. Draftcade will be open Sunday through Thursday from 4-11 p.m., and until 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday.
Ms. Castilleja said an opening date hasn’t been decided, but hopes to be up and running by mid-June or July.
“We've looked into different ways to constantly wipe the machines down,” she said. “The person who delivered our machines dropped off some new chemicals they're using all over that seems to be working really well.”
First Published June 2, 2020, 4:26 p.m.
