By: Ben Strickland, Fall Marketing Major
The chirps and beeps of retro arcade games combined with the bright LEDs of modern adaptations of Space Invader and Jet Pong tugs at the nostalgia heartstrings. Inviting both Downtown locals and out of town travelers alike, The Circuit Arcade Bar strives to entertain everyone and empower the district with their widely popular business concept.
Jason Hunnicutt, owner of Circuit as well as Ocean Street Tacos and Spliffs Gastropub, has been operating on his side of Ocean Street since the 1904 Music Hall opened in 2013. After that closed down ten years later, Jason looked to rejuvenate and continue the energy the Music Hall had before. “The arcade bar concept has been done around the city before and in other cities but there wasn’t one currently downtown,” he said. Circuit succeeded 1904 Music Hall, and continues to encourage growth in Downtown’s Nightlife District, The Elbow.
Alongside the SkeeBall and basketball games, The Circuit offers a full bar with plenty of variety. Bartenders serve craft beer from local breweries, signature cocktails, mocktails and popular THC drinks. To satisfy the stomach, you can also order tacos from Ocean Street just next door. “We like the hit of nostalgia,” Jason said. “It’s that chill feeling where you can relax and kick back with some friends or by yourself and play some games. Either way, you’re gonna have a good time.”
The Circuit emphasizes a welcoming entertainment with diverse options. They have a patio in the back, offering a gathering space that can be taken over by DJs, local bands, birthday parties or corporate events. They offer Free Play Mondays, where Jason rotates select games that people can play free of charge. All of this is in an effort to bring back the fun of yesteryears.
Owning multiple businesses in Downtown Jacksonville shows Jason is a big proponent of growth and visitors. He points out that having a popular business concept like an arcade bar in Downtown encourages the travelers to stay and explore all that Downtown has to offer. “Whether you’re from the Southside, Westside or whatever, you root for Downtown,” Jason said. “I think as people discover Downtown and as Jacksonville grows, more people are moving to Downtown out of state.”
The Circuit Arcade Bar, alongside Tacos & Tequila and Spliffs Gastropub, shines its neon lights on Ocean Street to catch the eye of anyone looking for a fun gateway into the Downtown lifestyle. Their mission of taking the popular arcade bar concept and turning it into the prologue to a visitor’s Downtown experience continues to stimulate the excitement of The Elbow. Whether you’re chasing high scores or just chasing a good time, The Circuit Arcade Bar is ready to play host.