The fun at Mana Board Game Bar got me thinking of another fun pastime: billiards. The first time I played I was eighteen and a bunch of us went to “Mandala”. The place had a bit of a members’ club vibe and I remember it as fancy. I took the game very seriously and tried to win, although my greatest achievement was twice hitting the cue clear off the table. That also requires skill.

My quest was to find a billiard hall so I could drag my family and friends to demonstrate my much-improved game. It turned out that billiards continues to be a popular pastime, with Shooters Billiards & Sports Bar coming highly recommended.

Housed in the “Qendra Tregtare Bregu i Diellit” (Sunny Hill shopping centre) the place is large and well equipped.

Do not be discouraged by the entrance to the shopping centre, which looks dilapidated and abandoned; ignore that and climb up the stairs to the first floor, where you will see the large sign pointing to the hall. Once inside, a total of nine billiards and one snooker tables are available, and if you feel adventurous, you can also play darts, albeit electronic ones.

The décor conveys a modern yet friendly and cozy feeling, with comfortable seating areas. Age-wise, you’ll find teenagers to seventy-year-olds, all practicing their game. If you feel peckish, you can order hot & cold snacks, which are quite good.

How good is the place? I ended up staying for three hours. And I won!