Courtesy Queensbury Billiards
By Ann Donnelly
Queensbury Billiards & Cafe, a unique establishment that offers more than just a pool hall, opened its doors in 2023. In 2024, it expanded its offerings to include a diverse menu, activities, and events. This distinctive blend of pool, food, and events has been a major draw, appealing to a diverse clientele. The venue’s dedication to building community and fostering camaraderie through leagues, tournaments, and social events further distinguishes it from other similar businesses.
Owners Kevin and Neelo Jaikeran, originally from Guyana and raised in New York City, relocated to Queensbury when Kevin’s job in telecommunications brought them to the area. The idea of opening a pool hall came when Kevin, passionate about the sport since his youth, saw a gap in the market. According to Kevin, “There was nowhere to play pool around here. You would need to travel 45 minutes to find the closest room.” This passion for pool, combined with Neelo’s love for diverse culinary influences, led to the birth of Queensbury Billiards & Cafe, located at 324 Quaker Rd., Queensbury, N.Y.
“I left my job and started my own company as a contractor. The pool hall was a second business,” says Kevin. However, his passion became his profession within a few months as he poured his dedication and commitment into making Queensbury Billiards & Cafe a success.
With 21 tables, including professional-grade nine-footers, Queensbury Billiards & Cafe caters to casual players and serious enthusiasts. “We keep up to professional standards,” Kevin notes. “The facilities are not just for the people looking for fun, but also for serious players looking for a place to train and practice.”
Queensbury Billiards & Cafe is committed to inclusivity and community engagement. They offer special rates for seniors, veterans, students, and APA league members. Fridays and Saturdays are Ladies’ Days, where women can play all day for $5 per person, showcasing their dedication to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment.
When it comes to food, the Jaikerans bring a melting pot of culinary influences to their menu. “Coming from New York City, you’re exposed to all different races and people around the world,” Neelo explains. “These are the foods they all eat over there, and it’s a mixture of Mediterranean, Caribbean, and a little bit of Indian cuisine.”
The Jaikerans’ menu is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and authenticity. It features a variety of dishes, from fried rice and chow mein to American staples like chicken tenders and fries. The Jaikerans take pride in the freshness of their ingredients and the traditional cooking methods they employ, ensuring that every dish is a flavorful delight. This dedication to quality ensures that every visit to Queensbury Billiards & Cafe is a satisfying and memorable experience.
The cafe offers takeout and delivery via DoorDash and outside catering services for group events and parties. The Jaikerans are happy to customize menus and accommodate special requests.
In addition to offering their facilities for parties and corporate events, they host their own special events and activities. Recent events included Trivia with Tim Sokol of A Venue, Karaoke with Matthew Roberts of Illuminated Audio, and Cookie Decorating with Flour Child Bakery. The Jaikerans are eager to collaborate with more local businesses to expand these offerings, creating a vibrant and diverse community space that everyone can enjoy.
For the Jaikerans, Queensbury Billiards & Cafe represents a unique opportunity to connect with their community and share their cultural heritage through food and a welcoming atmosphere. Their passion and dedication have fostered the business’s success, ensuring it remains a beloved community fixture as they continue to innovate and expand.
For more information, visit qbbac.com.