Pool tables, shuffleboard, electronic darts, pinball machines, and more

—Those looking for a fun and relaxing place to visit in Paso Robles return again and again to The Crimson Cue Sports & Billiard Club. With a team that’s both energetic and welcoming, it’s been a favorite among locals and tourists alike since opening in 2017.

Owner Erik Skupien, a veteran, firefighter, and private pilot, is a certified pool instructor. Since opening the doors to The Crimson Cue nearly a decade ago, he continues to grow and expand the family entertainment center daily with the help of Vice President Abbi Henderson.

“Not only is Erik a certified pool instructor, he truly enjoys playing the game daily,” Henderson says. “He loves his hometown of Paso Robles, so when he leased the building and began construction, it was with the intent of providing a fun atmosphere for locals and visitors to gather, play pool, and enjoy family entertainment.”

Now, The Crimson Cue is more popular than ever among new and returning guests. Best friends since their years together at Paso Robles High School, Skupien and Henderson continue to grow and expand the business and value the input they receive from loyal customers and friends.

Local homage and modern technology

The rustic décor is an homage to early sports in town, with the crimson colors of the Paso Robles Bearcats featured throughout. Large photos of past local sports teams, acquired from the Paso Robles Historical Society, adorn the walls. Modern LED lighting brightens the Olhausen pool tables. Guests have choices to enjoy the 22-foot shuffleboard, electronic darts, pinball machines, along with a variety of games and shows featured on the big screen TVs.

The Crimson Cue holds a weekly pool league and monthly tournaments in addition to daily open play. Free youth instruction and games of pool are offered every Tuesday, with instructors on hand to teach and encourage the next generation of pool players.

As the only pool hall in the North San Luis Obispo County, Crimson Cue stands out for its well-maintained tables, excellent customer service, and positive atmosphere for everyone. All ages are welcome and, on weekend nights, there’s an upbeat bar vibe for 21 and over groups and couples.

“We really put an emphasis on interacting with our customers,” Henderson said. “Everyone on our team is friendly, fun, energetic, and upbeat. We all make a point of getting to know our regulars and their preferences.”

Fun times at The Crimson Cue

Leigh Ann Harms has been the lead bartender for almost two years. She and her crew serve beer and seltzer on tap and in bottles and cans, and free popcorn on busy nights. Since they are currently in the process of obtaining a food vendor, customers are encouraged to order from local businesses and bring food in while they play.

“The Crimson Cue is known by both locals and visitors as a fun and relaxing place to go, and the overall vibe is mellow and fun,” Skupien said. “We provide a great customer experience and a chill atmosphere for people to stop in and enjoy a fun time.”

The positive comments and accolades from visitors to The Crimson Cue speak volumes. Yvette Lozada, a recent visitor to the area, shared, “From the moment we walked in, we felt like family. The locals treated us like they’d known us for years, and the atmosphere was warm, welcoming, and just plain fun. The pool area is fantastic, and the customer service is absolutely top-tier.”

One of the more popular events among the regulars is “Neon Nights,” which turns The Crimson Cue into a completely different atmosphere several times each year. Black light and neon pool balls, neon games, and party favors add to the fun while a local disc jockey provides upbeat music.

“People come to listen to the jukebox and hang out while they drink some beers and play pool without drama,” Henderson said. “Families enjoy coming with their kids, and we have a lot of amazing teenagers who come to play, too.

Whether you’re looking for something to do for date night or you’re searching for a place with good music, great pool tables, and cold beer to hang out with your friends, it’s the place to be. The team emphasizes family entertainment as they welcome all ages during the week, and 21+ only on Friday and Saturday nights.

“We would love to let everyone see how much fun they can have here at The Crimson Cue,” Skupein says. “We have a positive vibe here, people are respectful, and everyone wants to have a good time. We are always looking to grow and evolve, and there are still a lot of people who don’t know we are here. As a team, we continue to add activities to appeal to a wider customer base, and we are always changing the inside to keep it fresh and new.”

The Crimson Cue is located at 1319 Spring Street in Paso Robles. For more information, visit them on Facebook, other social media, or call 805-674-4664.

—Meagan Friberg