Pickleball Meets Nightlife: A new sports bar and restaurant with a pickleball court, Courtside Sport + Social, is under construction in Babylon Village. The venue will feature dining, games, and social events, with plans to open later this summer at 96 E. Main Street, the former site of Pekin Long Island.
New Concept for a Familiar Location
Courtside Sport + Social is the newest project from owner Frankie Bragaglia and his team. They signed the lease in October 2024, shortly after the sudden closure of Pekin in September.
“We liked the location of Pekin so we decided to take advantage of that space because it’s the perfect size,” Bragaglia told Greater Long Island.
The 3,000-square-foot building is being fully renovated to create a polo club-style atmosphere. The interior will include a dining area, an oyster bar, high-top seating, a pool table, and darts. A pickleball court is planned for the back of the property.
More Than Just Food and Drinks
Bragaglia said Courtside will offer more than a typical dining experience. The venue will host private pickleball leagues and offer lessons for beginners.
“Pickleball is exploding and Babylon Village was so welcoming to it. It’s a cool idea to bring the community together with a sports bar and lounge.” – (Bragaglia)
The menu is still being developed but will include specialty cocktails and upscale handheld items. Courtside will also include craft drinks and other social features to match its lively design.
Part of a Local Restaurant Group
Courtside will operate under the Standard Provisions Restaurant Group. The group also runs The Brixton in Babylon, Standard Rec in Patchogue, and Moonrise Motel in Kismet.
Bringing Sports and Social Life Together
With pickleball growing in popularity, Courtside aims to become a central hangout for athletes and social groups. The location combines food, fun, and fitness in one space. Its unique setup could attract locals and visitors, giving Babylon Village another place to play and gather.
News in Brief: Pickleball Meets Nightlife
Courtside Sport + Social, a sports bar with a pickleball court, is set to open this summer in Babylon Village. The 3,000-square-foot venue will offer food, games, drinks, and lessons. Owner Frankie Bragaglia hopes to bring the community together through sport and social events in a stylish new setting.
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