Formerly a textile artist and designer for Seattle based Nordstrom’s, Jill Young – Rosenast met her business savvy husband, Alex Rosenast back in the late 80’s. When he was the start up owner and proprietor of the famous rock epicenter and live music venue, RockCandy (RKCNDY). These two forces combined their talents to open their first joint venture and prototype Temple Billiards in 1994.
With a common affinity for old spaces they next purchased a massive 1928 clear-span building on Capitol Hill, once housing a Plymouth dealership and automotive garage. The duo conceived of creating a much larger venue that would provide an environment for real pool players mixed with the opportunity for some nighttime carousing. With the backing of two Pearl Jam band members the couple successfully converted this automotive garage into a 7,500 square foot pool hall with tournament sized pool tables, a full service bar, and restaurant. Garage immediately became a local favorite, attracting area hipsters, college students and corporate parties.
Seeing the next emerging trend Alex and Jill decided to partner up with Mike Bitondo, their general manager, and add bowling lanes to their venue. In 2003 the three story, one of a kind bowling alley was completed, the first to open in Seattle city limits in 40 years. Garage bowl quickly became a catalyst for parties and provided a socially active alternative to the typical night of bar hopping.
To meet the demands of business, Garage owners decided to make better use of their neighboring parking lot with another expansion. In fall 2008, the second addition was finished, completing a mixture of 20 bowling lanes, 25 pool tables, 6 bars, 3 private rooms, and plenty of lounging room for a night out. Bringing the public space to nearly 40,000 square feet. With Jill’s eclectic design aesthetic, garage provides a unique brand of entertainment. The space maintains the same industrial sensibility of the original 1928 building with high ceilings and exposed wooden trusses, anchored with elements such as chrome, high gloss automotive paint and leather throughout. Retro, 1950’s minimalist décor includes furniture and fixtures from Eames, Paulson, Saarinen and Varga to name a few. The uniformity of design gives the impression the entire building evolved at the same time, although the original conversion and two subsequent expansions span 13 years.
GARAGE – pool• food• bar• bowl is located at 1130-1140 Broadway Ave. Seattle, WA. Hours of operation are 3 p.m. until 2 a.m., daily. The kitchen is open from 3 p.m. to midnight weekdays and to 1 a.m. on weekends. Garage is a 21 and over establishment to bowl or play pool. Prior to 10 p.m. minors are welcome in the restaurant or patio areas only. Several paid parking lots are available within a block or two, along with metered street parking. For more information visit www.garagebilliards.com or call 206-322-2296.
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