Topeka’s Blind Tiger Brewery underwent a half a million dollars worth of changes that were completed Feb. 1.

Although patrons will see the main bar area looks just like it always did, they’ll also notice that the restaurant area now has more of a sports bar appearance.

Arcade games, ranging from golf to hunting, line the walls upstairs and downstairs in the restaurant. A 13×16 inch TV hangs front and center above the tables and an ice hockey table and foosball table provide entertainment.

“The owners are really big into Nascar and racing, so we have this huge TV to watch that on, as well as other sports too,” said Sandi Cottrell, daytime manager and human resources director of the Blind Tiger.

There’s also a room with several new pool tables and all the equipment that comes with them in the center surrounded by wooden tables and chairs. Basketball and football throwing games stand with the arcade style amusements.

“The entire atmosphere and all the games promote competition. They’re designed to be played by two or more people,” said Matt Lewis, manager of the Blind Tiger.

There’s still seating room available, but much of that room has been pushed against the walls to provide space for the games.

“We’ve had a little negativity from people who are used to coming here,” said Cottrell.

Cottrell said the restaurant was no longer able to provide for as large of groups as some of the customers had been accustomed to.

However, the only part of the building waiting to be finished caters to bigger groups of people. The private party room, which will include a plasma TV and be able to hold 60-70 people.

Cottrell said the Blind Tiger had started a new advertising campaign with 92 Max to drive more business its way. The restaurant will be catering to their customers by replacing games that aren’t being played and manufacturing revenue, but so far there haven’t been too many complaints.

“For the most part, everyone’s having a lot of fun. The employees are really enjoying it all,” said Cottrell.

The Blind Tiger does not take reservations. They operate on a first come first serve basis and are open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday. The restaurant is located at 37th and Kansas Ave.