If you're looking for a night of pinball and pints, there's an obvious choice here in Lubbock: Flippers Tavern, located at 1406 Ave Q. And it's easy to spot, thanks to the beautiful neon signage made by Tornado Industrial Arts.

[UPDATE: FLIPPERS HAS REOPENED! GO HAVE SOME FUN!]

If you drove by for lunch today, you may have been disappointed, as they are temporarily closed with their reopening TBA— as they are ongoing some repairs. Be sure to follow them on Facebook for updates:

I can't say I'm not a little disappointed, as Monday nights have been free play pinball after 8 p.m. But there's always next week!

If you suspect that I'm using this closure notice as an excuse to brag about my favorite bar in town, well, consider me busted. I love to get "tilted" at Flippers (insert rimshot sound effect here).

Since its opening, Flippers has proven itself to be a true Lubbock original. Delicious gourmet hotdogs (at a reasonable price point) now occupy a menu that's been curated by one of Lubbock's best chefs, Jason Diehl, former executive chef and owner of the beloved and acclaimed Crafthouse Gastropub. It's a great option for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free folks too.

It's also the perfect bar compromise if you are alcohol-free, as they have an extensive and exciting mocktail menu, along with a great selection of non-alcoholic beers. I enjoy their seasonal cocktail menu immensely, and it's even better knowing my sober friends can have a fun drink, too.

Looking for a smoke-free patio? Flippers has you covered there, too. Smoking is only allowed outside of the patio gates. Add that to comfy, welcoming seating, fantastic pinball games (like Godzilla and Deadpool, which are both perfect machines), and excellent drink specials and you've made a lifelong fan out of me.

Flippers, we can't wait to have you back.

Despite my glowing review, I was in no way paid for this article but I'll take a drink if I'm offered one.