Pool hall racks up a whole new look

By Marijke Rowland

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Breaktime Billiards wants to banish the old image of the small, smoky pool hall.

The new Modesto pool hall, in the site of the former Championship Billiards on McHenry Avenue, opened at the beginning of the month.

Owner Joe Gonzales more than doubled its size by expanding into the adjacent space, going from less than 4,000 square feet to some 10,000 square feet.

Inside, Breaktime has 21 tables, a full kitchen, dining area, bar and video game arcade. It also sells cues and other pool accessories.

"Modesto needed a place like this," Gonzales said. "Everyone from your serious player, average, amateurs, beginners are all welcome here. You can bring your kids and have a good time."

Having his own pool hall has been a dream of Gonzales' since he started playing at age 12. Now 36, the Modesto resident has spent the last year renovating the space.

Gonzales said he plans to hold pro events and tournaments there too.

The kitchen is open for lunch, dinner and late-night snacks, serving hamburgers, sandwiches, soups, salads and more.

The seating area can fit about 25, and players can eat at the pool tables. The bar serves beer and wine.

Breaktime Billiards, 304 McHenry Ave., is open from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

Tables cost $6 to $10 an hour, depending on the number of players.

For more information, call 846-9656.

Elsewhere around the Business Beat:

If you go down to the Crossroads, you might find a pretty good burger.

The new Farmer Boys opened in Riverbank's Crossroads shopping center at the end of last month, boasting it has "the world's greatest hamburger."

The Riverside-based fast-casual chain specializes in fresh, made-to-order food. Customers can dine in or use its drive-through. Breakfast, lunch and dinner menu items are served all day.

Farmer Boys has 67 locations, largely in Southern California, as well as two restaurants in Nevada. The Riverbank site is company's most northern spot to date.

Tom Krutilek, Farmer Boys vice president of marketing, said Riverbank was picked for its prime location and demographics.

Farmer Boys is open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. seven days a week. For more, go to www.farmerboys.com. ...

Decorate your home or special occasion with the help of A Piece of Craft.

Owner Carmelita Kosko opened the Modesto craft boutique last month. The shop sells silk floral arrangements, home décor, jewelry, photography and other homemade crafts.

Kosko makes most of the artwork but also sells other artists' work. She accepts custom orders for special events.

A Piece of Craft, 3955 Coffee Road, Suite 2, is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday. For more information, call 872-9767. ...

And finally, complete that special occasion with a dress from the Elegant Bride and Quinceañera in Modesto.

Owner Teresa Mota opened the shop last month.

The store has gowns for weddings, quinceañeras, prom, baptisms and more. Mota also sells accessories and plans to start tuxedo rentals soon.

The Elegant Bride and Quinceañera, 1230 H St., is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. For more information, call 579-7017.

Have an item for Business Beat? Contact Marijke Rowland at The Modesto Bee, P.O. Box 5256, Modesto 95352; 578-2284 or mrowland@modbee.com.