In the last week or so, we’ve seen the usual shift from “things to do outside” to “things to do inside.” It seems Holey Mackerel — the family-friendly entertainment complex that opened at 5401 W. Layton Ave. in August of 2023 — is in the same frame of mind and will officially launch its SipNShanty concept today (Nov. 7) at 4 p.m.
The indoor-focused fun will take some of the seasonality out of Holey Mackerel’s business, which to this point has prominently featured the notoriously outdoor activities of mini-golf and batting cages. An arcade and bar have also been prominent parts of the setup, and will now get an even greater emphasis via the SipNShanty.
Befitting the dropping temperatures, the new concept will take on an ice-fishing theme and lean into the gaming aspect of the business by making room for more options — from classic Nintendo Entertainment System titles to more physically demanding choices like Pop-A-Shot.
The changes don’t stop there, either. If you’ve been to Holey Mackerel recently, you’ll have noticed the ShortFin food truck supplying a wider array of culinary options. That will get an even greater presence going forward with a menu including classic warmups like homemade chili (in a bowl or on a hot dog if you prefer), Korean chicken sandwiches, tacos and kid-friendly options.
Then there are the warming options for the grownups — an expanded lineup of cocktails that includes:
- Granny’s Brandy Slush — Korbel Brandy, Lustau Spanish Reserva Brandy, orange, Tangerine Ginger Rishi Tea, Bittercube Cherrybark Vanilla Bitters and Brew City Lemon-Lime Soda.
- O’Doyle Rules! —Bacardi Superior Rum, Twisted Path Chai Liqueur, lemon, Drillaud Banana Liqueur and mint.
- Rusty Auger — Dewar's 12-year Blended Scotch Whisky, Bank Note five-year Blended Scotch, tarragon, orange and Bourbon Barrel Smoke.
- Sage Mode —Cazadores Reposado Tequila, lemon, pear, sage, orange liqueur and a hint of saline.
- Shell Shock — Tito's Vodka, Stateline Coffee Liqueur, pistachio whipped cream, and rose and cardamom chocolate.
- Watch Outfer Deer! — Cherrry Bounce-Infused Old Forester Bourbon, Rockwell Sweet Vermouth, Amaro Averna and a whiskey cherry.
Hours for the SipNShanty will be 4 to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Plus, Holey Mackerel has another transformation on tap starting Dec. 5, when it will host a Grinch-themed holiday pop-up with decorations, visits from Santa, a Christmas tree lot, even more custom cocktails and a makers market.
To keep with the many, many things Holey Mackerel has planned for the chillier months ahead, follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
