At one point somebody at Blue Island's Anchor Bowling Lanes thought bowling and sailing were simpatico brothers in recreation. The relationship seems to be in the midst of a break-up, however, as the decorative, airbrushed anchors adorning the walls seem to be the last holdovers from the theme, one touch–up coat of paint away from vanishing. The current owners have steered Anchor for the last 15 years and little modernization has been done in that term, but it's a great example of how a hands-off approach can foster a great atmosphere.

Teeming with a thick "Sanford & Son"-meets-"The Big Lebowski" quality, Anchor's lanes are equipped with Brunswick 2000 electronic scoring systems, beige machines of an Atari-iffic vintage, and are split by a dividing wall that separates 10 lanes from another six that are situated across from Anchor's bar, the comfy Love Boat Lounge. The red Naugahyde stools surrounding the similarly upholstered horseshoe bar are duct-taped with care, and drinks are poured stiff and cheap, a killer combination when paired with Friday's special of unlimited bowling from 10 p.m.-3 a.m. for $10, shoe rental included. Bowling generally costs $3 per person per game, plus $2 shoe rental.

Centerstage Reviewer: Quanah Humphreys