Southlake Hooky general manager Simpson Boren said the changes will be seen in all parts of the entertainment venue, from dining and movies to bowling and games.
During the Aug. 19 Southlake City Council meeting, a sign variance request to add signage facing SH 114 and along Plaza Place was approved and should be installed by November, Boren said.
What’s happening?
The venue has removed laser tag and bumper cars and will replace them with 20 new arcade games. In the dining area, some tables will be removed and darts will be added to a wall. He said there will also be golf simulators added.
Boren said there will be larger event spaces, including the addition of a video wall, to allow companies to host meetings or conferences in the venue.
“We needed more event spaces,” Boren said. “Now, if you have a group of 40 or 50, they can come and have a place to actually meet and have their food and everything else, and then go play and hang out. It’s going to be a new vibe, new atmosphere.”
He said that while there will still be birthday and family events, the expansion will allow for more corporate events.
A closer look
Hooky announced two new programs.
The Educator Sunday program runs through Nov. 9 and offers a 25% discount on all food and nonalcoholic beverages for faculty and staff members with a valid school-issued ID for the ordering staff member, according to a news release.
In addition, Hooky Report Card Rewards gives eligible students the chance to earn game time with good grades. The rewards program offers a free one-hour game card for every A, a free 30-minute card for every B and a free Icee treat for perfect attendance. This offer is available to students enrolled in kindergarten through 12th grade or equivalent educational programs, including homeschool, with valid documentation, according to a news release. Southlake, Addison and Waxahachie locations of the business will take part in that program.
“We’re excited to kick off the school year with a few fun offerings for all educators and students across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex,” said Eli Perez, Es Vedra Cinemas' regional director of operations, in a news release. “After busy school days and long weeks, Hooky offers a fun and affordable way for students and teachers alike to unwind and enjoy some well-deserved entertainment.”
Also of note
Other changes will include adding a portable bar on the outside patio facing Plaza Place, as well as a DJ on weekends in that location. In the game area, cocktail waitresses will be added on the weekend, Boren said.
“We want to make sure our guests have a great experience from the time they walk in until the time they leave,” Boren said.
Some background
Austin-based Es Vedra Cinemas separated from business partner Elevate Entertainment Group, the parent company of EVO Entertainment, in February. EEG retained the EVO brand when the two businesses split properties. Es Vedra Cinema also owns Violet Crown Cinemas and ShowBiz Cinemas.
What else?
The company is planning for a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Southlake Chamber of Commerce on Nov. 21, as long as facility construction work is completed.
- 1450 Plaza Place, Southlake
- www.hookyentertainment.com
