Reviving Bowling in Mandeville with a $2 Million Investment
Cao, an entrepreneur known for turning around a bowling alley on the West Bank of Jefferson Parish, is making a $2 million investment to refurbish and reopen the long-closed Tiffany Lanes on La. 22 in Mandeville. The new venture, named Paradise Alley, is set to become the second bowling alley in St. Tammany Parish, joining the existing alley in Slidell.
“I think the area is primed,” said Cao, highlighting the need for more family entertainment options, as the alley has been closed for over a year.
The upgraded Paradise Alley will feature 32 lanes, with a focus on league play during weekdays and open bowling on weekends. Friday and Saturday nights may also include live music, adding a fresh twist to the traditional bowling experience. “I’d like to open sometime in September,” Cao mentioned, although the timeline depends on securing necessary permits.
From Banking to Bowling: Cao’s Journey
Cao, who spent 17 years in banking and also works in real estate development, is no stranger to the bowling business. In 2016, he led a $2.5 million renovation of Westside Lanes in Harvey, transforming the 20-lane alley. “I learned a lot from that,” he said, noting that Paradise Alley will be nearly twice the size of his previous project.
The 35,000-square-foot building in Mandeville has been extensively renovated. “I pretty much gutted everything,” Cao said, mentioning the installation of new lanes and the removal of drop-down ceilings to create a more open, inviting atmosphere.
Bowling’s Evolution in the U.S. and New Orleans
The U.S. bowling industry is still bouncing back from the challenges of the pandemic, but there’s a rich history in the New Orleans area. Bowling surged in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s, with iconic local alleys like Bowlarama, Sugar Bowl Lanes, and Mid-City Lanes, which later became Rock ‘n’ Bowl, known as much for its live music as for its bowling.
While bowling’s future was questioned in the early 2000s, Cao believes it remains an attractive entertainment option — if done right. “Bowling has evolved,” he explained. “You have to offer more.”
Modern bowling centers now emphasize open, updated facilities with enhanced lanes, better food options, and added entertainment to draw crowds.
What to Expect at Paradise Alley
Though Paradise Alley’s menu will stick to classic bowling alley favorites like pizza, burgers, and fries, Cao promises a tastier experience. “It’s tough to change the mindset of what bowling alley food is,” he admitted with a laugh.
Weekends will likely feature live music or a DJ, but Cao doesn’t plan to keep the venue open past midnight.
As Mandeville gears up to welcome Paradise Alley, Cao is hopeful that his blend of classic fun and modern amenities will create a vibrant new gathering spot for the community.
