In addition to pickleball and padel, Pickle N Pins will feature a diverse range of activities including duckpin bowling, axe-throwing, darts, and cornhole. It will also house a full-service restaurant and bar, drawing inspiration from the lively food truck culture. Currently, two padel courts are being constructed at the Metairie location, enhancing its appeal as a comprehensive recreational destination.
Geared towards adults yet designed to be family-friendly, Pickle N Pins is set to provide an atmosphere for “fun-seekers looking to unwind and socialize,” according to a press release. Co-owned by Drew Brees and Darren Balsamo, the venue reflects Brees’s continued investment in the metro New Orleans area, complementing his existing ventures such as Smalls Sliders, Walk-On’s, and Stretch Zone.
Beyond business, Brees remains deeply involved in the world of pickleball. He is a part owner of a pickleball team in Austin and oversees the NOLA Pickle Fest through his foundation. Scheduled to kick off its second annual event on August 7 at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, the NOLA Pickle Fest celebrates the sport’s growth and community engagement.
Pickleball itself has emerged as America’s fastest-growing sport, attracting players who are transitioning from tennis and others who appreciate its vibrant atmosphere. However, its popularity has not been without challenges, notably noise complaints from displaced tennis players. Despite this, local facilities like NORD, City Park, and The Exchange Pickleball + Bar continue to cater to the demand with both outdoor and indoor courts.
Looking ahead, Jefferson Parish officials are investing in a $1 million outdoor pickleball complex at Mike Miley Playground, responding to the growing interest that sees an estimated 300 to 500 residents engaging in pickleball weekly across the parish parks.
Drew Brees’s Pickle N Pins represents not only a new business venture but also a significant addition to Metairie’s recreational landscape, promising a vibrant hub for sports enthusiasts and families alike.
News in Brief: Pickle N Pins Arriving Metairie
Drew Brees is expanding his business ventures with Pickle N Pins, an indoor pickleball facility opening in Metairie this fall. Located on Veterans Memorial Boulevard, it will feature public padel courts, duckpin bowling, axe-throwing, and more, along with a restaurant and bar inspired by food truck culture.
Co-owned with Darren Balsamo, the venue aims to blend adult appeal with family-friendly fun. Brees, known for his investments in New Orleans, also supports pickleball through ownership of a team and the NOLA Pickle Fest. The sport’s rapid growth faces challenges like noise complaints, but local facilities and investments, like Jefferson Parish’s $1 million complex, continue to meet demand.
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