Good Times
"Good Times", previously known as "Sharky's" is located at Alamo Plaza at the corner of Alamo Drive and South Florida Avenue. They offer "billiards, darts and spirits", according to their old Sharky's website. I wasn't able to find a Good Times website, other than the one at MySpace Good Times.
The location is good, but the interior hasn't changed in the last 20 years that I can see. Sure, they change out the placement of the foosball and air hockey tables and added stick darts, but the bar itself; the stools, the appliances, mirrors, floors, bathrooms - everything is exactly as it was when I first stepped foot inside the place. Yes, there have been minor changes, like the mini-dj counter that they put up in front of the restrooms then took down. But the important things, like the bar stools, oh my. You'd be hard pressed to find a single bar stool that is level. I was there just last week and I noticed the wall behind the bar is exactly the same, the bar was dirty and the whole place just had a general dark, depressing feel. My opinion is when the lighting is TOO dark, there's something to hide. But you don't have to look too hard to see what it is. I can't remember ever using the restroom there without leaving with a not so good feeling. The restroom (one ladies, as I haven't been in the one mens) leaves lots to be desired. They have alot of tables, though, and they have trivia, which is an added bonus. But finding a level cue or ample seating can be a chore. The prices are comparable, but the crowd is very young and boisterous; almost always the majority of 20 somethings and under. They don't have a ladies night and the bartender turn-over rate is dizzying. Parking can be limited depending on when you go, as they are in a busy plaza with lots of other businesses. I was leaving just before 8pm and noticed them setting up a cover charge outside. I thought that seemed a little strange, since the place seemed so dreary. I'd say they hit their peak in 2001-2002. Time for some updates, guys.
Wally's
Wally's is located at the corner of Main Street and Lake Parker Dr. The location being not far from downtown is good, but for me personally . B's about 30 minutes from my south Lakeland home. They're on Wallys MySpace.
I've witnessed several changes over the years, mainly the reconstruction of the bar. I've seen it go from semi-straight to horseshoe and now it's getting ready to change again. The dart/billiard sales area was relocated, walls were opened, and the restrooms redone. I've seen tables being recovered, floor covering being replaced and new games/machines being added including the digital jukebox. There are two huge rooms of tables (a separate juke box in each room) with plenty of seating and six redone and clean restrooms. The lighting is just right; enough to give it some mood, but not so dark as to hide anything. The prices are reasonable, although I might suggest free sodas for designated drivers. The crowd is a good blend of 20's, 30's, 40's and up. It's never a majority of any one particular age group. The same bartenders there today were there when I first stepped foot in the place eight years ago. That says alot about a business; any business. It's nice to see a familiar face one year to the next. Larry and Mikey are great bartenders; they're extremely friendly and very good at what they do.There are other bartenders, but these guys make the place. Parking is no problem, even when the place is crazy busy (most of the time). Every Thursday night is Ladies Night when ladies play free pool. If going for Ladies Night, I suggest going early, as the tables will fill up fast. Keep up the great job, guys!
Here's a quick-reference comparison: (click to enlarge)
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