UAE residents who can’t decide between a dinner out or an evening of fun and games no longer have to choose just one. On Thursday, October 1, Brass Monkey will open to the public. Located on Bluewaters Island, right underneath the picturesque Ain Dubai Ferris wheel, this licensed hangout spot features a bowling alley, virtual reality racing simulators, plenty of retro arcade games, pool and snooker, two dining venues and more, all spread across two storeys. “Grow young again” is the motto at Brass Monkey and the venue seems set on living up to this. The interiors have a retro vibe, complete with exposed pipes, brick walls and a lot of neon lighting, while taking pride of place on the ground floor is the 12-lane bowling alley. Plenty of arcade games are set up towards the side, while a raised platform in another corner serves as the setting for live performances. Upstairs, guests will find more pool tables, a DJ booth and a temporary-tattoo booth overlooking the bowling alley. There's also an upstairs arcade section serving up a blast from the past, with games such as <em>Pac-Man</em>, <em>Mortal Kombat</em> or <em>Street Fighter</em>. The space also has two virtual reality racing simulators. Those looking to play can purchase a “play card” for Dh100, with credit that can be redeemed at machines. The card can be topped up and credit doesn’t expire when you leave. For those looking for a bite between all the gaming, Brass Monkey also has two dining venues. Americana, located on the ground floor, is a casual joint that serves a number of skewers, tacos, nachos, sliders and pizzas, with prices starting at Dh25. There are also vegan options, from the mushroom pizza to the Beyond Meat slider. Those with a sweet tooth can enjoy churros or an Eighties banana split. If you’re looking for something more upscale, head upstairs to Bushido, a Japanese restaurant with booths overlooking the bowling alley. On the menu are starters such as duck bao buns, grilled prawns, upside-down gyoza and edamame. Mains include baked sea bass, chicken ramen, charred miso salmon and spicy lamb noodles. There’s also Brass Monkey’s Signature Chicken, a dish featuring chicken stuffed and rolled with glass noodles, red curry, sweet potato and Cantonese sauce. Prices range from Dh45 to Dh150 for mains. In line with government regulations to stem the spread of the coronavirus, temperature checks will be carried out upon entry and face masks must be worn at all times, except when guests are seated at a table and dining. Tables have also been spaced apart, and sanitiser dispensers placed on each one. According to a representative, alternate lanes in the bowling alley will remain empty to reinforce social distancing. Attractions, including all games, will be disinfected after every use. <em>Brass Monkey will open Sunday to Wednesday, from 2pm-1am; Thursdays from 2pm-3am; Fridays, noon-3am; and Saturdays, noon-1am. For more information, call 052 775 5317 or 04 582 7277 or email <a href="mailto:reservations@brassmonkeysocial.com">reservations@brassmonkeysocial.com</a></em>
