Tonic at Bolos in Brunswick, Maine

Tonic at Bolos pairs fresh Mexican cooking with four lanes of classic duckpin bowling in the heart of Brunswick. The kitchen handles dietary needs seriously, offering carnitas tacos, haddock Baja tacos, and vegetarian plates alongside a solid local craft beer list. It's the kind of place where you can bowl a game, eat real food, and actually enjoy a cocktail without the fuss.

• Cocktails by bartenders who actually know what they're doing.
• Fresh haddock Baja tacos and proper carnitas.
• Four duckpin lanes for bowling between courses.
• Handles vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free needs without fuss.

Start with Bolo's Trio, a dip sampler of guac, queso, and salsa. The Baja tacos come filled with fresh haddock, and the carnitas are tender and well-seasoned. Grab a local craft beer while you bowl, and come back for another round before you leave.

Loud and playful, especially when the lanes are full. The dining area buzzes with conversation and the clack of duckpin strikes. It's not the spot for a whispered conversation, but that's kind of the point.

It works best as a group outing or casual date night rather than a quiet dinner. Duckpin lanes book up fast on weekends, so call ahead. DoorDash orders have been spotty, so sitting down is the move.

Guests praise the bartenders' attentiveness and skill, and servers like Mallory make the night feel personal and fun. One recent visitor called it "great fun for families," noting how easily kids can shift between bowling and eating. The locally sourced food and craft beer selection keep people coming back.