Today pool players are claiming a different sort of pool hall. Those days are gone where smoky pool halls filled with shady characters and shifty crooks. However the pool hall owners are making heroic efforts to meet the needs of the pool players today. Today the billiard lovers have huge expectations, and many pool hall owners have made great strides to get with the times.

There is an excellent example of pool hall in New York City which has renovated in 2000. It has become one of the hottest pool spots in America now. This pool hall is built with over 16,000 square feet of space on two floors. It boasts a massive 54 foot glass bar, a full service restaurant, 30 championship pool tables, a stellar sound system, and a collection of plasma TV's placed throughout the venue. It also has an incredible glass staircase in the shape of a pool triangle. However Slate is one of the most unique and exciting places in this city.

The Continental Modern Pool Lounge is another fine establishment. It is located in Arlington, Virginia and is quite possibly the funkiest billiard room in America. This venue is the perfect combination of fun and sportsmanship. The décor speaks volumes about the type of establishment they are trying to operate. It is very much a 70's inspired spot, reminiscent of The Jetsons or something to that effect. This pool hall is, without a doubt, a flashback from way back.

There are three main things that separate a good pool hall from a great pool hall; respect for the game, quality equipment, and stylish décor. Shakespeare's Pub and Billiard Room in Denver, Colorado is without a doubt, a great pool hall. They have an excellent menu, a fine selection of ale and lager, and some of the best equipment and players in America. It is not uncommon to discover some of the best and brightest players playing alongside relative beginners. Shakespeare's is considered one of America's top pool spots, even garnering a recent mention in USA Today. If you are ever in Denver, be sure to drop in for a game and a pint.