If you missed the scrolling sign outside the new eating establishment at the corner of Wolf River Avenue and Pearl Street, the business is now open. Terry and Erika Hilbert and staff are excited about the turn out the first week, and the compliments about the new addition to the bowling alley.
At Hilby’s Restaurant and Sports Bar there is plenty of seating in a room that includes seven big flat screen TV’s.
An extra design feature of the new dining experience is specifically for smokers. A wrap around, enclosed dining area also seats 38 people. Vented windows meet the state code for smoking.
There is something for everyone on Hilby’s menu. Whether you start out with an appetizer from the 12 selections on the menu, or test out the burgers, sandwiches and wraps, you have no lack of options. Seafood selections, BBQ ribs, and pizzas and calzones are sure to be favorites of many hungry customers. The pizza recipe has not changed from the bowling alley, although Chicken BBQ as a topping on pizza is a new option. Add soups and salads, plus a kids menu, and offerings are complete.
Breakfast will served every Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m. with breakfast combos, a hungry man platter and a breakfast burrito. Build your omelets include a kitchen sink selection and a Tex-Mex skillet breakfast. Additional breakfast specials will be available every Friday and Saturday morning.
“We’ll have Friday fish and seafood, including a fresh catch of the day,” explains Erika Hilbert. “We make many items from scratch right here in the restaurant, like our potato salad, coleslaw, tartar sauce, pizzas and calzones.”
The Hilbert’s have owned the bowling alley since 1979, and it received a facelift this summer. All the old seating, tables and ball racks are replaced. On the floor is a new checkerboard tile that enhances the lanes. A huge expanse of carpet was installed in the entrance, game and bar area. The new carpeting is designed with a bowling motif and fluorescent accents. ”
The bar has been moved and the bowling center reconfigured, too. You can now sign up and get your bowling gear at the near end of the bar, without having to weave in and out of people.
Last week, the New London Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassadors held a meeting in the dining area, and had many good things to say about the new business. Chamber Director Laurie Shaw thought it was just the right fit for New London.