Transport Back To Summertime At Backyard Bocce

Piercing winds and arctic temperatures make it official: We’re in the thick of winter. But Backyard Bocce promises to transport you to summer days of cookouts and warm weather get-togethers.

Opened in September, the 2,900-square-foot Flats East Bank oasis features three turfed courts and activities such as giant Connect 4 and Skee Ball to play while waiting your turn. A true leisure sport, bocce is easy to pick up, even by those who don’t frequent our local Italian-American clubs.

“Bocce is one of those things anybody can do,” says manager George Fox. “It’s not intimidating. People just come to have a good time.”

While the rarity of bocce gets people through the door, it’s the easygoing environment — plus the pizza from neighboring Dante’s Inferno and a lengthy beer and cocktail list — that keeps them coming back.

“The whole idea was to create a relaxing environment for people to enjoy some cocktails, have a pizza and just hang out like they’re in their backyard,” Fox says.

1075 Old River Road, 216-523-1507, backyardbocceflats.com