DALLAS—For Gen X-ers and millennials alike, vintage arcade bar Kung Fu Saloon has already mastered the art of resurrecting childhood memories with over 18 arcade classics, including “Centipede,” “Ms. Pacman” and “NBA Jam,” plus Skee-Ball and oversized Jenga. So when the venue’s managing partner Nick Adams was looking to take the nostalgia to the next level, recruiting turnkey Austin-based event fabrication company Art Seen Alliance made perfect sense.

Warren McKinney, director of Art Seen Alliance, said that “Kung Fu Saloon approached us with the idea to phase out and remodel their kitchens to create themed secret bars inside their existing bars that would rotate throughout their various locations. (Kung Fu Saloon also has bearings in Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth and Nashville.) We designed the bars in a way that is modular so they can be relocated from one location to the next.”

When guests step into the 4,200-square-foot space, they enter The Goonies screenplay and join the misfit kids of the Goon Docks in their quest to excavate the legendary pirate One-Eyed Willy’s treasure. “Patrons are immersed in an environment that transports them into the story with several vignettes recreating iconic scenes such as One-Eyed Willy’s Ship and Treasure, the Wishing Well, the attic where the map was discovered, the Bone Organ and much more,” explained McKinney. 

The quirky Austin bar is currently available for private event bookings, serving craft cocktails and an eclectic pub-style menu for up to only 100 guests due to the city’s COVID-19 social distancing restrictions. Think: pickle shots and cheeseburger egg rolls accompanying a team-bonding night filled with ‘80s-themed karaoke and foosball. 

“When a customer enters the bar and makes their way to the rear of the building they will discover a red light washing over a well with Andy’s sweater hanging from a bucket,” said Adams. Once seated, “guests can enjoy one of our themed craft cocktails, take in the vignettes and enjoy 80’s music.”Photo: Ann Alva Weiding

“Each of these vignettes provides a unique place to hang out with friends, be a great photo opportunity and are full of hidden details,” explained McKinney.Photo: Ann Alva Weiding

Art Seen Alliance and Kung Fu Saloon are extending their collaboration to reach more locations, with plans to unveil similarly immersive Ghostbusters and Beetlejuice-themed activations at their San Antonio and Nashville locations, respectively.Photo: Ann Alva Weiding