Q-Zar entertainment venue reopens with new games and axe-throwing

The Q-Zar entertainment complex in Carle Place has reopened offering new video games, a digital axe-throwing area and a bar where guests can enjoy wine and craft beers after being shuttered for nearly two years.

Q-Zar closed its doors in March 2020 in compliance with state health mandates, according to Ryan D'Amico, the Q-Zar chief entertainment officer. It reopened under new ownership and completely updated in December 2021.

"We have had many customers that have been excited to see our renovations and relive their childhood experiences," D'Amico says.

Andrew Whiteman, 32, a stockbroker from Merrick, first went to Q-Zar 20 years ago and revisited the first week in January. "I thought it was going to be a walk down memory lane," says Whiteman, "but it was far from that. It was really cool and different … the name was the same but the place is amazing now."

Additions made to the facility during its closure include an improved and interactive LED bi-level laser tag game featuring formats like capture the flag, team and solo laser tag sessions. Visitors can also play video games, as more than 50 new games have been added to the house arcade, including a King Kong virtual reality adventure.

Guests can now try the new axe-throwing venue, Q-Axe. Attendees can utilize four lanes for up to eight people using high-def digital targets; games range from standard ax throwing and a cricket-inspired version to an edition that involves matching throws, similar to the basketball-shooting game "HORSE." "Axe-throwing is by far my favorite," D’Amico says of all the new things to try.

Joe Denaro, 29, of Great Neck, went to Q-Zar for the first time on Jan. 8 because he "heard about it from a friend and saw some of their pictures; it looked cool."

He had never gone axe-throwing before, and that was his main reason to try it out. With a few friends, he went down and tried his hand. "It was a fun night out, something different to do." He’s already thinking about going back, as he "might get a group of guys to go, do that and some laser tag next time."

Q-Zar has also evolved into a nightspot, with wine and a selection of craft IPAs on the menu, and no gameplay is required to take part.

Aside from playing laser tag and arcade games, Whiteman grabbed a beer while hanging out for about two-and-a-half hours. "We are getting a group of friends to go back," he says.